Your passport is essential for international trips — and it’s your key to return home! So, what happens if you lose your passport in another country? If you have a Travelex policy, here’s how to get a replacement passport with our support.

Taking a vacation overseas is a great way to see more of the beauty that the world has to offer. But unexpected travel challenges can happen … like the loss or theft of your passport.

“If you lose your passport on vacation, you’ll need to contact the closest U.S. embassy to apply for a replacement passport ASAP.

“But before you contact the embassy, give us a call if you’re traveling with a Travelex policy. Our experts can guide you during the process of getting a new passport to help you return home safe and sound. We're here to support our travelers 24/7, so don’t be afraid to lean on us any time.”

Frank Harrison, Regional Security Director Americas at Travelex Insurance’s 24/7 assistance provider, Zurich Travel Assist.

Here, you'll learn what to do if you lose your passport abroad as a Travelex traveler. From reporting your missing passport to filing a claim with our claims administrator for unexpected costs, these are the five steps to take.

5 steps to take if you need a replacement passport overseas:

1. Report your missing passport to local authorities and get a police report.

2. Call our 24/7 Travelex assistance provider.

3. Call the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and follow their instructions to get a replacement passport.

4. Secure your other forms of identification.

5. File a claim for unexpected passport costs.

What to do if you lose your passport during your trip

Step 1: Report the loss or theft to local authorities and get a police report

As soon as you lose your passport or someone steals it, call local police. Give them all the details on what happened, and make sure you file a police report and save any documentation.

You can get a replacement passport without a police report — which can make the process a little easier — but if you have a Travelex policy, you’ll need a police report to make a claim. We ask for this documentation as proof of you losing your passport on vacation, so don’t forget to get a police report if you want to file a claim.

Want to know how to contact local police in your destination? Visit the U.S. Department of State’s website and search the country you’re in. If you have a Travelex policy, you can also look up your destination in our Travel On app to see contact information for local police.

Step 2: Call our 24/7 travel assistance provider

We know it can be stressful to lose your passport overseas. But you're not alone; remember that our 24/7 travel assistance provider, Zurich Travel Assist, is ready to help.

You can contact our travel assistance providerin several ways:

  • Tap the assistance button in our Travel On app.
  • Reach them domestically at 1-800-555-0870.
  • Reach us internationally at 1-416-977-1803.
  • Email us at [email protected].

When you speak with our provider, they'll assign you a travel assistance case manager who you can work closely with during the process. Be sure to keep your case manager updated while you communicate with the U.S. embassy and follow their instructions. This way, they’ll know the best way to support you and the status of your replacement passport.

Step 3: Call the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and follow their instructions to get a replacement passport

First, visit the U.S. Department of State’s website to look up the nearest U.S. embassy and find the right number to call. When you speak with a consular officer, report your lost or stolen passport. Make sure to give them as many details as you can, because it might help expedite the process.

The officer will check your identity during your call. They might ask for details like your name, birthdate, and Social Security number. It may be helpful to let them know if you have other forms of identification with you, like your driver's license.

After your initial call, you’ll usually go through these steps with the embassy or consulate:

  • Make an appointment to go to the embassy and give them the documentation needed to apply for a new passport. You'll need to bring passport-sized photos that match the U.S. passport standards. You might be able to obtain them at the embassy or a nearby photo shop.
  • Fill out paperwork like forms DS-64 and DS-11. They're essential when you report your passport lost or stolen and apply for a new one.
  • Understand what fees you'll need to pay for your replacement passport.
  • See if you’re eligible for an emergency passport valid for one year.

Try to stay organized while you apply for a new passport. It’ll help to minimize delays and complications — which means you can get home sooner (or get back to enjoying your vacation!). You can find more details on what to do if you lose your passport on the U.S. Department of State’s passport page.

Step 4: Secure your other forms of identification

After you lose your passport, check what other forms of identification you have with you. They can help maintain your identity abroad and make it easier for you to move forward with your travel plans.

Gather your other documents — like a driver's license or picture of your lost passport — and keep them in a safe place. Consider making digital copies of these IDs, which may be helpful if you lose physical copies while you’re waiting for your new or emergency passport.

After you report your lost passport to the U.S. embassy, keep an eye on your personal accounts and credit report. When you lose your passport, someone could find it and try to steal your identity. So, check for unauthorized purchases or concerning alerts from your accounts.

Step 5: File a claim for unexpected costs related to your lost or stolen passport

What happens if you lose your passport in another country? You may not only have replacement passport fees — you could also have to pay for an extended stay until you get a new one.

Here's the good news: Your Travelex policy may reimburse unexpected costs that come up after you lose your passport. Check out the description of coverage for all the details or give us a call on 1-800-228-9792 if you have questions.

Ready to submit a claim? Collect all your paperwork to include with your claim, like receipts for passport photos and fees from the embassy or consulate. Don't forget to also include receipts showing your trip delay expenses, like extra nights in your hotel. Then, you can file a claim online or call our claims administrator at 1-800-501-4781.

Get our travel assistance provider's support with more than lost passports

Our expert travel assistance provider can help with emergencies and non-emergencies during your getaway.

Before you jet off on your trip, find out how we can help if:

Download our Travel On app to reach our assistance provider quickly

With our Travel On app, you can call our travel assistance provider at the tap of a button. This is super useful if you need our help, fast. Plus, you’ll see your travel insurance coverage, destination safety advice with real-time alerts, and more.

 

More perks of your Travelex travel insurance policy

Along with providing support after you lose your passport, your trip protection may help turn other travel hiccups into happy accidents that you’ll laugh at in years to come.

Our plans include these essential benefits and more:

Ready to pack a Travelex policy for your vacation?

We're here to help you if something goes wrong on your trip. Get a travel insurance quote now.

Planning a trip as an LGBTQ+ traveler? You might have a few extra things to think about to help make sure your journey is not just fun but also safe. Let’s dive into some advice to help you travel confidently as part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Everyone deserves the chance to see new destinations and enjoy their vacations to the fullest. But LGBTQ+ travelers may get different treatment from country to country — and sometimes even city to city.

"Traveling can be challenging for the LGBTQ+ community, so safety is important. But not all destinations are the same; attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals vary globally. Some countries protect the LGBTQ+ community, while others give them severe punishments.

"Cultural norms and prejudices can lead to harassment or discrimination, even if something is legal. So, it’s important to follow LGBTQ+ travel safety guidelines to understand your destination and explore confidently and safely.”

Frank Harrison, Regional Security Director for North America at Travelex Insurance’s assistance partner, Zurich Travel Assist.

You want your vacation to be everything you dreamed of and more. So, let’s help you feel more comfortable and excited about visiting new places. In this guide, we’ll share essential tips to help you feel safer exploring the world as part of the LGBTQ+ community.

Top 3 LGBTQ+ travel safety tips

  • Tip #1: Research your destination before booking any part of your vacation.
  • Tip #2: Respect local customs and laws in your chosen destination.
  • Tip #3: Travel with others or connect with local LGBTQ+ groups in your destination.

3 questions to ask yourself about LGBTQ+ travel in your destination

Wondering if your ideal destination is LGBTQ-friendly? Here’s what to learn about the area for a better idea of its LGBTQ+ acceptance level.

1. Is being LGBTQ+ against the law in my destination — and if so, how is the law enforced?

The world has quite a range of LGBTQ+ laws. Some countries are welcoming and have laws that protect LGBTQ+ rights and promote equality. For example, countries like Canada, Spain, and the Netherlands have strong laws protecting the LGBTQ+ community. Traveling to these places can be easier for LGBTQ+ people, as they can be themselves and feel more welcomed.

On the flip side, places like Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Nigeria, criminalize same-sex relationships. Showing your LGBTQ+ identity in public can give you serious consequences, like imprisonment or death. So, start your vacation planning with research on your destination’s LGBTQ+ laws.

Where to look up LGBTQ+ laws and rights in your destination

Remember, the rights and freedoms we have in the U.S. don’t always apply in other countries. If you break your destination’s LGBTQ+ laws, the U.S. government may provide some support, but they can’t get you out of jail.

So, do your research before you book your trip. If you’re not happy to abide by the country’s LGBTQ+ laws, it might be best to choose another destination.

Important: LBGTQ+ laws may not be your only safety concern in a different country. Read on to learn more about avoiding discrimination and harassment so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

2. Even if being LGBTQ+ is legal in my destination, are there other safety risks?

If you choose an LGBTQ-friendly destination for your vacation, you’ll likely have a great time. But even in countries that haven’t formally outlawed being LGBTQ+, you could still have safety risks.

For example, in Egypt, police often use a vague law condemning “debauchery” as grounds to punish LGBTQ+ people. The consequence could be up to three years of jail time — where you could face even more safety risks. 

Societal attitudes may also be less accepting — meaning you could face challenges like harassment or discrimination. Keep this in mind while deciding which country to visit — or even which area of a country to visit. Why? Countries that legalize gay marriage and gender confirmation treatment tend to be more accepting, but you could still face discrimination in certain areas of those countries.

“Discrimination exists even if you’re traveling domestically within the United States. Some states may still have laws outlawing ‘same-sex conduct’.”

Frank Harrison, Regional Security Director for North America at Travelex Insurance’s assistance partner, Zurich Travel Assist.

3. Is it safe to go to LGBTQ+ events in my destination?

If your destination is hosting an LGBTQ+ event, this is a good sign that you’ll be welcomed. Even at LGBTQ+ events in conservative cities, it’s likely you’ll have more freedom to be yourself. Plus, it’s a great way to make new friends within the community.

So, if you’re not sure whether your LGBTQ+ travel destination is safe, consider visiting during major community events like Pride. That said, not all cities have Pride, and not every Pride is a party like in Berlin and São Paolo.

If it’s not Pride season, keep your eyes peeled on social media for queer events at your ideal vacation destination. You can also find global events through LGBTQ+ organizations, like on the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association’s website.

When is it not as safe to go to an LGBTQ+ event? If protesting is part of it. Yes, many members of the LQBTQ+ community like to make the most of their right to protest in the United States. But you may not have this same right in your chosen vacation destination — so the event could do you more harm than good.

“As an LGBTQ+ traveler, you should understand your destination's laws on protesting before attending an LGBTQ+ event. If you go to a community protest — or support it via social media — you could be at risk.”

Frank Harrison, Regional Security Director for North America at Travelex Insurance’s assistance partner, Zurich Travel Assist.

5 LGBTQ+ travel safety tips for unfriendly destinations

Thinking your destination may not be LGBTQ-friendly? Don’t cross it off your list just yet!

With these five tips, you may be able to see the world without compromising who you are:

1. Stick to cities.

Cities and popular tourist destinations tend to be more welcoming to LGBTQ+ travelers than rural areas. For example, Budapest boasts a lively queer scene despite Hungary being a rather conservative country. 

2. Travel with a group.

Book your trip through an LGBTQ+ organization so you can travel with a community of like-minded adventurers. Having knowledgeable LGBTQ+ guides with you to give you the advice and support you need can also help you feel safer while traveling abroad.

3. Be careful with public displays of affection.

Some countries frown upon — and even outlaw — public displays of affection (PDA) for straight and LGBTQ+ couples alike. That’s right, PDA could be off-limits for anyone in certain destinations. So, to avoid attracting unwanted attention, save the handholding for when you’re in private.

4. Learn local customs.

Each country has its own rules about modesty, religious practices, and gender expression. Research what people wear and how they carry themselves so you can respect the culture you’re visiting. As a tourist, you may not have to follow local customs perfectly. But it’s always smart to be cautious and respect your destination’s traditions.

5. Check and edit your digital footprint.

Did you know certain destinations have laws about how you use the internet? They have severe restrictions on the types of websites and apps you can use, as well as rules around sensitive information. 

Before you leave home, consider making the following changes to your digital footprint:

  • Make your social media profiles private.
  • Hide your relationship status.
  • Remove and replace overtly queer public profile images.
  • Delete LGBTQ+ apps.
  • Remove sensitive images, emails, and messages.

7 LGBTQ+ travel safety tips for any destination

No matter where you go, if you’re an LGBTQ+ traveler, it’s smart to keep these seven travel safety tips in mind:

1. Register with STEP before you leave home.

Sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State before you pack your bags. It only takes a few minutes, and, in case of an emergency, the embassy can easily contact you and vice versa.

2. Know your rights.

Whether airport security is patting you down or police are questioning you, know your legal rights. If you do, you can speak up for yourself — and others — when necessary. 

3. Carry a doctor’s note.

Is the gender marker on your passport different than the gender you identify with? A doctor’s note can help clear up confusion so you can safely cross borders. For more information on your passport gender marker, visit the U.S. Department of State’s LGBTQ+ travel page.

4. Keep all medication in its original packaging.

Store all your medications — whether over the counter or prescribed — in their original packaging. Otherwise, you could have issues at airport security and border checkpoints. 

Also, don’t forget to check your medications are legal in your destination before taking them with you. You can learn more about medication laws in other countries in our guide on refilling prescription medication abroad.

5. Learn about health care access for tourists.

Research your destination’s health care policy in advance. You’ll want to know whether you’ll be able to get medical care if needed while you’re in a different country.

For more vacation health care advice, check out some of our travel assistance guides:

Also, don’t forget to download our Travel On app if you’re a Travelex policyholder so you can easily contact our 24/7 assistance team if you need medical treatment on vacation.

6. Book an LGBTQ-friendly hotel.

Some hotels are more welcoming than others, so look for LGBTQ-friendly hotels or ones that other LGBTQ+ travelers recommend. You can find supportive places to stay on websites like the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association’s hotels page.

You should also consider reading reviews on general travel sites like TripAdvisor or Booking.com, focusing on feedback from LGBTQ+ guests. Calling the hotel directly can also give you insight into their policies and attitudes towards LGBTQ+ travelers.

7. Consider buying travel insurance.

No matter how well you plan, every trip can have surprises — and travel insurance can be there to help if something goes wrong. From trip cancellations to emergency medical expenses, protecting your vacation with travel insurance can give you extra confidence abroad.

Plus, when you have a Travelex policy you get access to our Travel On app — which comes in handy with LGBTQ+ travel. Along with real-time safety alerts, you’ll have LGBTQ+ advice and risks for your destination in the palm of your hand.

Ready to travel with pride and confidence?

Your vacation should be as smooth and fun as possible — no matter your identity or destination.   

To help ensure your next vacation is memorable for all the right reasons, remember the tips in this LGBTQ+ travel safety guide. Plus, consider securing your trip with travel insurance for extra support away from home.

Want to explore with Travelex by your side?

Bring our 24/7 travel assistance, Travel On app, and reliable coverage with you on vacation. Get a travel insurance quote now.

 

The information and advice contained on this page is general advice only and is correct at the time of writing (June 1, 2024) and may change at any time.  

Discover which factors may increase or decrease your policy premium — meaning how much you pay for your travel insurance — before you protect your trip.

When we set off on vacation, we hope it brings us nothing but joy and fun, memorable experiences. But if something goes wrong while you're traveling, things can get stressful – and expensive. Thankfully, that's where travel insurance can help.

"When you buy travel insurance, you're not only eligible for reimbursement of unexpected costs, but you’ll also be traveling with an expert team who’s ready to help you 24/7 if an unexpected incident arises. Your policy protection could prove well worth the premium amount if the unthinkable happens during your trip and you rack up unexpected costs."

Frank Harrison, Regional Security Director Americas at Travelex Insurance’s 24/7 assistance provider, Zurich Travel Assist.

But have you ever asked yourself, "How much is travel insurance?" when booking a trip and researching how to protect it? While the answer to this question varies because so many factors can influence how much you’ll pay, here are some of the most common pricing factors of a travel insurance policy and how they can affect your premium.

These 7 factors may affect how much your travel insurance policy costs:

1. Your state of residence

2. Your age

3. The length of your trip

4. The travel insurance plan you choose

5. Additional upgrades you choose

6. Your trip cost

7. Including additional travelers on your policy

Can my state of residence affect the cost of my travel insurance policy?

Certain states have their own travel insurance pricing compared to the rest of the country. So, depending on where you live, you may pay more for your travel insurance policy compared to residents of other states. For example, if you live in New York, your pricing may vary for your travel insurance policy compared to someone buying the same plan in Nebraska.

Can my age affect the cost of my travel insurance policy?

Generally, your travel insurance premium will increase as you get older, especially once you’re over 65. This is because travelers over 65 have a higher risk profile than younger travelers, particularly when it comes to health and safety.

For example, older travelers are more likely to have more health conditions, which increases the risk of a medical expense claim. Similarly, older travelers may be more likely to be targeted by thieves in some countries, which could result in costly claims.

With that said, traveling in the golden years can be smooth, fulfilling, and memorable — especially with senior travel insurance. Our Travelex plans can provide coverage for travelers up to 99 years old. Get a quote online now to see your premium for your next trip.

Can my trip length affect the cost of my travel insurance policy?

Travel insurance premiums are usually lower for shorter trips and higher for longer trips.

Here’s why: Policy cost is based on the likelihood of something going wrong. And the longer you’re on vacation, the greater the chance of an unexpected issue popping up.

At Travelex, our plans have maximum trip lengths. Here are the trip duration limits for each of our comprehensive plans:

  • Ultimate: up to 180 days
  • Advantage: up to 30 days
  • Essential: up to 30 days

Curious how much your policy would be based on the length of your next trip? Get a quote online now.

Can the Travelex plan I choose affect the cost of my travel insurance policy?

We know each trip is unique, so we offer different plans to help you pick one that suits your vacation. When you get a quote for your Travelex policy, you’ll see the relevant plan options available for your destination with varying levels of coverage, including:

The more basic plan options like Travel Med Go and Flight Insure generally cost less than comprehensive plans like our Ultimate plan. However, they also offer a lower level of coverage. It’s smart to compare our travel insurance plans to determine which one is best for your trip itinerary and budget.

Also, it’s always important to read the description of coverage to ensure the plan you choose is right for your trip, and contact us if you have any questions before you get a quote. You can reach our customer service team at 1-800-228-9792.

Can the upgrades I include affect the cost of my travel insurance policy?

At Travelex, we want you to have the power to tailor your travel insurance policy to your trip. So, some of our plans are customizable with the option to add extra coverage with upgrades — which can increase your benefits and premium.

Planning on trying more thrilling adventure sports like skydiving over Mt. Everest or zip lining through the jungle in Costa Rica? Our base plans offer coverage for certain adventure sports, but if you want protection for others, adding our adventure sports upgrade to eligible plans will increase your premium.

Similarly, if you want coverage to rent a car while you explore Norway, extra medical coverage for your trip to Thailand, or the ability to cancel your trip to Hawaii for any reason, our upgrades can come in handy. Just remember that you’ll pay more for your travel insurance policy if you include these upgrades because you’re getting more coverage.

Want to learn more about our upgrades? Visit our travel insurance upgrades page now.

Important: Keep in mind that your eligibility to add our upgrades varies by state of residence and destination. For example, our pet care upgrade isn't available for New York residents, and our rental car damage upgrade can't provide coverage in Ireland, Mexico, Jamaica, and Costa Rica.

Can my trip cost affect the cost of my travel insurance policy?

The more money you invest into your trip, the more you’ll likely pay for travel insurance. For example, a policy for a $2,000 trip to Mexico will likely cost less than one that costs $10,000. This is because if something goes wrong, you’re at risk of losing more money than someone who paid less for their trip.

We want to help protect your prepaid, nonrefundable vacation expenses from the unexpected. So, to get the coverage you need for any potential losses, it’s smart to consider getting coverage for your full trip cost, even if it increases your premium. If you don’t, you could be stuck paying for unforeseen expenses beyond what you dedicated to your getaway.

Want to learn more about your travel insurance trip cost? Check out our article on what to include and skip when you calculate trip cost.

Can including other travelers on my policy affect the cost of my travel insurance?

When you get a Travelex quote for multiple travelers, you’ll enter the other travelers’ ages and trip costs, and their individual trip details may increase the premium. For example, an older traveler accompanying you on your trip may raise the premium compared to a quote with a younger travel companion. Also, if your travel companion’s trip cost is $5,000, your policy may cost more than a quote for an additional traveler whose trip cost is $1,000.

Want to know how much it costs to protect your trip with loved ones? Get a quote now to find out.

Protection when you need it the most

There’s no one answer to the question, “How much is travel insurance?" because your policy premium will always vary depending on your age, destination, trip length, selected plan, and more.

One thing is clear, though: Protecting your vacation with our Travelex coverage can give you access to 24/7 travel assistance and financial protection should the unthinkable happen on your trip. This way, you can focus on making the most of your time away, knowing we may be able to help if something goes wrong.

Ready to protect your upcoming trip?

Travel with our team by your side and get a quote now.

 

Taking your prescription medication consistently while you’re traveling is an important part of staying healthy and following your doctor’s orders. But what do you do if you suddenly realize you’re out of your supply — and out of the country? Here’s what to do if you’re a Travelex policyholder and need prescription medications while you’re traveling.

Medicine from the doctor can help you feel your best at home — and while you’re exploring destinations on vacation. Staying healthy can help you travel more, truly soak up each moment, and create lasting memories because you’re feeling your best.

This means one of the most crucial things to pack for your trip — beyond travel insurance, of course — is a sufficient supply (plus extra!) of your prescription medication. Why? Unexpected hiccups like losing, forgetting, or running out of your medicine can quickly put your health at risk — and your trip plans on pause.

But what do you do if you’re faced with an empty or missing medication during your getaway?

If you’re a Travelex policyholder, there’s no need to panic about how to find the right international pharmacy or stress about whether a pharmacy can replace your lost prescription; our emergency assistance provider can help you replace your medication with ease.

“Just like at home, it’s essential to take your regular medications while you’re traveling. If your prescription medication helps you get through the day or keeps your body functioning as it should, we know how stressful it can be to unexpectedly be out of medication in another country.

“As soon as you realize you need to fill a prescription, give our travel assistance team a call anytime so we can help. Our team can help you speak to a doctor virtually or in person so you can replace your medication quickly, and even help with filing a claim for the prescription costs. This means you can get back to focusing on enjoying your vacation instead of worrying about potential health complications.”

Dr. Joel Lockwood MD, FRCPC, Regional Chief Medical Officer at Zurich Travel Assist, our 24/7 assistance provider.

Here, we’ll share the steps you should take when you need to get prescription medications while traveling. Because you’re abroad with our travel insurance, we’re here for you in more ways than one — and our assistance provider is always available to offer prescription assistance.

Need help right now? Contact travel assistance →

5 steps to take if you need more prescription medication during your trip:

1. Call our 24/7 travel assistance provider.

2. Make an in-person or virtual appointment with a doctor who speaks your language.

3. Ask our travel assistance providerfor the nearest pharmacy (and get translation services if needed).

4. Save all medical records, reports, and receipts.

5. Submit a travel insurance claim for unforeseen expenses.

Here’s how we can help if you’re out of your prescription medication while on vacation

Step 1: Call our 24/7 travel assistance provider

If you find yourself unexpectedly looking at an empty medication container on vacation or simply can’t find your prescription medication, the first thing to do is to call our 24/7 travel assistance provider, Zurich Travel Assist. Getting help from our provider is a perk of being a Travelex policyholder, and you can reach us anytime, anywhere.

Here are four ways to reach our travel assistance provider:

  • Open our Travel On app and tap the assistance button.
  • Call 1-800-555-0870 if you’re inside of the U.S. or Canada.
  • Call 1-416-977-1803 if you’re outside of the U.S. or Canada.
  • Email [email protected].

Once you get in touch with us, you can talk with certified doctors, nurses, and case workers who can give you prescription assistance and help you get access to a refill.

Step 2: Make an in-person or virtual appointment with a doctor who speaks your language with the help of our assistance provider

After you explain your prescription medication situation, our travel assistance provider can help you find a doctor so you can get a new prescription. If you need the doctor to speak English, Spanish, or another language, let Zurich Travel Assist know so they can find a suitable doctor or arrange translation services.

We can even schedule your virtual or in-person appointment for you, so you’re ready to go when you get off the phone.

Our assistance provider has a carefully checked list of trusted doctors all over the world. This means no matter where you have trouble with your prescription medication, we're all set to help you get the most reliable medical help when you need it.

Good to know: When you need a prescription at a new doctor’s office, you may need to send them your medical records so they can view the details of your prescription. But don’t worry about trying to retrieve your information; our travel assistance provider can help transfer your medical records to the doctor’s medical facility if necessary.

Step 3: Ask our travel assistance provider for the nearest pharmacy (and ask them to arrange translation services if needed)

Once you’ve spoken to the doctor — whether in person or virtually — you’ll need to get your prescription filled. The doctor you speak with may ask which pharmacy to send your refill to — or they may email it to you so you can take it to any nearby pharmacy. If you need help locating a reliable pharmacy, our travel assistance provider can help you.

Worried about speaking to a pharmacist abroad? It can feel uncomfortable visiting a pharmacy in another country because it may not be what you’re used to at home — especially if you don’t speak your destination’s native language.

Here’s the good news: our travel assistance provider can not only help you see a doctor to get your script, but also help you when you go to the pharmacy to get it filled. If you need help with translating when you’re getting prescription medications while traveling, our assistance provider can arrange translation services for you.

Step 4: Save all medical records, reports, and receipts

When you make a virtual or in-person appointment, see the doctor, and get your prescription medication from a local pharmacy, don’t forget to save all the documentation you receive.

For example, if you set up a virtual doctor's visit through our assistance provider, you'll get confirmation and receipts by email, so make sure you keep them.

Why? Because when you file a claim with us, you'll need proof of your appointments and medication requirements — like what treatment you received and how much it cost — so we can accurately assess it.

Have more questions about what documents you should keep? Don't hesitate to ask our travel assistance provider while they're sorting out your care.

Step 5: Submit a travel insurance claim for unanticipated expenses

If you forget, lose, or run out of your prescription medication unexpectedly and have medical costs from the refill process, we may be able to help.

Good to know: Before you submit a claim, it’s helpful to look through your description of coverage to review your benefits and exclusions so you know what costs are eligible for coverage relating to your prescription medication. If you need help understanding your coverage, you can call our customer service team at 1-800-819-9004.

Ready to submit your claim with all your documentation? You can file your claim online or reach our claims administrator at 1-800-501-4781.

Important: It’s unlikely your regular health insurance will provide coverage for the costs that come while refilling a prescription abroad. That's why our travel insurance coverage can make a big difference — it can help provide coverage for emergency medical and dental bills, so you don't have to stress as much about unexpected costs.

Did you know our travel assistance provider can help with more than refilling prescriptions?

Travel assistance services are always available to you for help with both emergency and non-emergency issues.

Find out how we can help in other travel situations:

Access your policy in our Travel On app now!

  • Keep your coverage on hand and travel safer with security alerts, destination advice, and more when you download our Travel On app.

Your travel insurance helps with more than medical expenses

At Travelex, we want to protect you as much as we can, which means our plans have a variety of benefits.

Here are some other key benefits of our travel insurance:

Not a Travelex traveler yet?

Lean on our travel assistance provider 24/7 during your trip with a Travelex policy. Get a quote now.

 

Calculating your travel insurance trip cost for a quote doesn't have to be complicated. Here's a simplified guide to help you figure it out.

Are you in the process of getting a Travelex travel insurance quote for your upcoming trip? During the quote process, we’ll ask you to share your trip cost. But why does our Travelex team need to know your trip cost? And how do you calculate your trip cost?

Telling us your total trip cost is essential to getting the right coverage for your vacation. We’re here to help safeguard the prepaid nonrefundable payments you’ve made or will be making for your vacation, so we need to know how much you’ll be spending to suggest what coverage you need and ensure your travel insurance premium is accurate.

Calculating your trip cost can be easier than you think. This guide walks you through the simple steps you need to take, including what to count and what to skip. Because whether it's your flight, hotel stay, or once-in-a-lifetime tour, getting a clear picture of your trip's total cost is essential for getting an insurance quote that’s just right for your vacation.

Key takeaway: You only need to include prepaid nonrefundable costs — including prepaid deposits — in your trip cost. You don’t need to include any cost that’s refundable. Also, remember to include any cancellation penalties you'd have. For example, if the hotel you booked charges a cancellation fee, add that amount to your trip cost.

5 prepaid nonrefundable expenses to include when you calculate your trip cost:

1. Your accommodations.

2. Your airfare or cruise tickets.

3. Your in-destination transportation.

4. Your tours, events, and activities.

5. Your meal packages or dining experiences.

1. Add your prepaid, nonrefundable accommodation expenses

Did you book an Airbnb cabin in the mountains in Montana or an overwater bungalow in the Maldives? Wherever you’ve decided to stay, if you paid in advance and can’t get a refund, add the total amount to your travel insurance trip cost.

Remember seeing “free cancellation” as a feature when searching for places to stay? If you booked an accommodation that lets you cancel at no cost, you don’t need to include the expense when you calculate your trip cost (because you don’t need to get coverage for an expense you can get back elsewhere). Make sure to check whether or not your accommodation booking includes free cancellation before adding it to your travel insurance trip cost.

2. Add your prepaid, nonrefundable flight or cruise tickets

Whether you’re embarking on a transatlantic cruise to explore Europe or flying to Thailand to visit an elephant sanctuary, if your tickets are nonrefundable and you’ve already paid, add the expense to your travel insurance trip cost.

It's crucial to include the cost of your flights and cruises when you're working out how much to insure your trip for. These big-ticket items often come with hefty price tags and are usually nonrefundable, so they should be added when you calculate your trip cost.

After you calculate your trip cost, always double-check the policy to see the full terms and conditions for flights and cruise coverage to make sure your travel insurance suits your trip plans.

3. Add your prepaid, nonrefundable transportation bookings

Want to enjoy the freedom of exploring Florida’s beaches in a rental car? Or maybe you’re prepaying for Eurail train tickets so you can stop in multiple European countries. If you paid in advance for transportation you’ll enjoy once you’ve arrived, add those nonrefundable expenses to your travel insurance trip cost.

4. Add your prepaid, nonrefundable tours, events, and activities

Did you book a snorkeling cruise excursion in the Bahamas or a tour of the Colosseum in Rome? Or perhaps you bought tickets to a professional soccer game in Madrid or concert in London. You’ve likely planned some fun activities for your trip, and if you already paid and can’t get a refund, add these bookings to your travel insurance trip cost when getting a quote.

Tours and events are often nonrefundable, which means if bad weather ruins your snorkeling trip or you’re too sick to attend the concert you’re traveling for, you won’t get your purchase back. So, make a list of all your prepaid, nonrefundable activity expenses and include them when you calculate your trip cost.

5. Add your prepaid, nonrefundable meal packages and dining experiences

Buying food and beverage packages can be a great way to cruise on a budget or save money at a resort. But if you buy nonrefundable packages and suddenly can’t go on your trip, you’ll be paying for packages you didn’t use. So, it’s important to add meal packages to your travel insurance trip cost.

Thinking about trying a unique dining experience during your getaway? Whether you booked a traditional Japanese kaiseki dinner in Kyoto or a Greek feast on Rhenia island, if your payment is nonrefundable, add it to the list when you calculate your trip cost.

You’re ready to complete your travel insurance quote!

Now that you know how to calculate trip cost for your upcoming vacation, it’s time to finish protecting it. Remember, if a trip expense is paid for ahead of time and you can't get the money back if your travel plans change, it should go into your trip cost calculation. This way, you know you have the right coverage and can feel more confident as you look forward to your travel experiences.

Ready to protect your trip?

With one of our Travelex plans, you’ll keep 24/7 travel assistance by your side. Get a quote now.

 

From riding public transportation in Portugal to driving a rental car through Canada, there are lots of ways to explore your destination. But, with the excitement of travel can also come vehicle accidents — which can happen when you least expect them. So, if you’re traveling with one of our Travelex plans, let’s explore what to do in a vehicle accident.

Planning to get to Buckingham Palace via the London Tube or ride a bicycle around Tokyo? When you picture visiting all the sights on your itinerary, you expect to enjoy yourself to the fullest. But what happens if the unexpected happens during your trip — like getting in a vehicle accident? Would you know what to do or who to call?

If you’re wondering what to do in a vehicle accident — whether it’s a bus, boat, bicycle, or car — you’ll be happy to know our emergency assistance provider is here to help 24/7. Yes, if your trip is protected with our Travelex travel insurance, we can support you in more ways than one.

If you have an urgent medical concern that needs immediate treatment and is too severe to be treated at a doctor’s office or clinic, you’ll find yourself looking for the nearest emergency room so you can go to a hospital at your vacation destination — and fast.

“Getting in a vehicle accident while traveling can feel super stressful, especially if you get injured. But don't worry, we've got your back! Our travel assistance services are here 24/7 to help you get the care and support you need.

“From finding a nearby hospital to get checked to finding a police station to get a police report, our team of medical and security specialists to help make a likely messy situation a little smoother so you can get back to your vacation.”

Dr. Joel Lockwood MD, FRCPC, Regional Chief Medical Officer at Zurich Travel Assist, our 24/7 assistance provider.

In this guide, we’ll fill you in on what to do if you’re in a collision, from reaching our emergency assistance team to filing a claim for unforeseen expenses. This way, we can take some pain out of navigating the post-accident process if you ever find yourself in one on vacation.

Need travel assistance right now? Contact emergency assistance →

5 steps to take if you’re in a vehicle accident on vacation:

1. Get in touch with local authorities and our 24/7 emergency assistance team.

2. Document the incident and save all records.

3. Use our emergency assistance team to make a telehealth appointment or find a nearby medical facility.

4. Hold onto all medical documentation, including local authority reports, records, and receipts.

5. Submit a travel insurance claim for any unexpected costs.

Here’s what to do if you’re involved in a vehicle accident during your trip

Step 1: Get in touch with local authorities and our 24/7 emergency assistance team.

The first step is to play it safe and reach out to professionals who can help:

1. Call local police and emergency medical services after your vehicle accident. (If you have our Travel On app, you’ll find the numbers for the local authorities in there.)

2. Call our emergency assistance team as soon as you’re able. As a Travelex traveler, you’re not alone if you’re dealing with a stressful situation away from home — our World Travel Protection assistance team is here to help at any time.

If you get injured in an accident, when you call our emergency assistance team you can speak with experienced paramedics and nurses who can help you get the right medical care based on what happened and how you’re feeling after the accident.

Here's how you can contact our travel assistance provider:

Contact emergency assistance →

Step 2: Get an official document of the incident and save all records.

If you feel well enough to do so, take detailed photos of the accident scene, including damage to the vehicle and surrounding area or other vehicles. Note the time, date, and location of your vehicle accident, along with the names and contact information of any witnesses.

As local authorities assess and assist with your vehicle accident at your vacation destination, retrieve as much paperwork from them as possible. It’ll help document your travel insurance claim when you’re ready to file.

Step 3: Use our emergency assistance provider to make a telehealth appointment or find a nearby medical facility.

Even if you feel fine after the accident, you could still have injuries you’re not aware of. So, it’s important to talk with our 24/7 emergency assistance provider. When you do, they can arrange telehealth care or help you find reliable medical facilities nearby to visit in person.

Our assistance provider, Zurich Travel Assist, has a thoroughly vetted directory of trusted medical facilities worldwide who are ready to help our travelers. Wherever your vehicle accident occurs, they're equipped to swiftly guide you to the nearest and most dependable healthcare providers — because you deserve the right care whenever you need it.

Did you know?

Our assistance provider's care doesn’t stop when we help you find the nearest medical facility. They can also help while you’re getting treated after you’re injured in an accident. From hospital transfers and emergency medical evacuations to prescription assistance and transferring your medical records, our emergency assistance provider can offer support.

Step 4: Hold onto all medical documentation, including reports, records, and receipts.

Just like saving records of your vehicle accident, remember to keep any paperwork you receive from any medical facility you visit to receive care.

Why? We’ll want as much documentation as possible to support your travel insurance claim when you file it — including your treatment details and medical costs.

Have more questions about documentation you should hold onto? Ask our emergency assistance provider when they’re helping coordinate your care. For example, if you schedule a telehealth appointment via our assistance provider, your confirmation and receipts should arrive in your email inbox for safe keeping.

Step 5: Submit a travel insurance claim for any unexpected costs.

If you want to try to get reimbursement for unexpected expenses that came up from your vehicle accident, you can file a Travelex claim. Before filing a claim, check your travel insurance benefits and exclusions and make sure you’re covered for the payments you had to make after your vehicle accident.

If you have questions about your coverage, you can call our claims administrator:

Zurich American Insurance Company

Useful claim information for vehicle accidents:

  • Has your rental car been damaged in the accident?

    You’ll need our rental car damage upgrade included in your policy for coverage to apply.

  • Were you injured in the accident and want to file a claim for your medical bills?

    If you have a Travelex policy and need medical care because of your accident, we might be able to reimburse your costs. Also, if the doctor prescribes medication or tells you to buy some, make sure you save your receipts and file a claim with us because we might be able to reimburse those costs, too.

Have all your paperwork together and ready to submit a claim? You can file your claim online or reach our claims administrator at 1-800-501-4781.

Important: Chances are that your health insurance from back home won’t help with bills that come up if you need medical care while you're abroad. That’s where our travel insurance comes into play: it can help take some of the pressure off when it comes to emergency medical and dental expenses. At Travelex, our claims administrator can review your claims for unplanned doctor visits, hospital stays, x-rays, and other unexpected medical expenses, so you can focus on enjoying your trip (not worrying about financial strain).

Ready to learn more from our travel assistance provider?

Zurich Travel Assist is always available to help with both emergency and non-emergency issues — and we’ve put together some guides to help you feel more prepared for the unexpected.

Explore more ways we can help during your trip:

Set up your policy in our Travel On app now!

Easily access your coverage in your pocket — along with 24/7 tap-to-call travel assistance, instant safety notifications, and destination information — when you download our Travel On app.

Know your benefits and make the most of your travel insurance

We’re here to help protect more than your unexpected medical costs.

Check out what else we can support you with:

Don’t depart without our trip protection

Check out our plans and get a quick quote for coverage that suits your vacation.

 

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