Question 1

What to know before you go to the Caribbean

Want to have an easier time navigating the Caribbean? Let’s look at the main differences between the Caribbean islands and the U.S.

Key facts about the Caribbean

Language: Many Caribbean islands, such as the Bahamas, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands, have locals that primarily speak English. But the main language in other areas varies. Spanish is predominant in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, while Dutch is the official language in Aruba. Some islands also have local creoles and dialects.
Currency: You can pay with the U.S. Dollar in many Caribbean countries, but some have their own currency. For example, Jamaica, the Bahamas, and Barbados have their own dollars.
Visa requirements: U.S. tourists can often enjoy visa-free trips to several Caribbean destinations for short stays. Countries like the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and the Bahamas typically allow visa-free entry. However, it’s always helpful to verify specific entry requirements for your destination island ahead of time.
Driving side: Driving rules differ across the Caribbean. On islands such as Jamaica and the Bahamas, driving is on the left side of the road. But in areas like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, driving is on the right side like in the U.S.
Electric plug and voltage: You'll usually have no issues plugging in your U.S. devices in the Caribbean. Islands like Puerto Rico and the Bahamas have American-style plugs (Type A and Type B) and voltage (110-120V). Nonetheless, to avoid potential mismatches, you may want to pack a universal adapter.
Dialing code: Each Caribbean island has its own dialing code. For example, Puerto Rico uses +1-787 and +1-939, the Dominican Republic has +1-809, and the Bahamas operates with +1-242. When you’re ready to make a call, dial the country’s code first. Then, enter the area code and number for the person or business you want to contact.
Time zones: The Caribbean encompasses multiple time zones, primarily Eastern Standard Time (EST) and Atlantic Standard Time (AST). Some islands observe Daylight Saving Time like in the U.S., while others do not.

When’s the best time to visit the Caribbean on vacation?

Want to know when you’re more likely to have warm, sunny days? Or maybe you’re looking up potential travel dates to see if you’ll need travel hurricane insurance coverage?

Your destination's climate helps you choose the best time to visit the Caribbean for your unique trip. So, before you book, understand the Caribbean seasons to see which one suits your travel plans.

Seasons in the Caribbean:
High season (mid-December to mid-April):
Weather: Expect sunny, dry weather that's perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
Crowds: This is the most popular time to visit, so prepare for larger crowds and higher prices.
Events: Many islands host festivals and events during this time, providing plenty of entertainment options.
Low season (June to November):
Weather: This period is wetter, with a higher chance of hurricanes, particularly from August to October.
Crowds: Fewer tourists mean less crowded beaches and attractions.
Prices: You'll find great deals on some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, making it ideal for budget travelers.
Shoulder seasons (May to early June and late November to early December):
Weather: Transitional periods with generally pleasant weather, though occasional rain showers can occur.
Crowds: Moderate tourist numbers offer a more relaxed experience without feeling deserted.
Prices: Often cheaper than the high season, but more expensive than the low season, making it a great value for money option.

Couple riding bikes during Caribbean travel.

Public holidays to know for your Caribbean travel planning

Before you decide on the best time to visit the Caribbean, check the public holidays. It'll help you avoid potential business and attraction closures and large crowds. If you do travel during these holidays, you can enjoy local traditions and immerse yourself in Caribbean culture.

Main public holidays in the Caribbean

New Year's Day: January 1

Celebrated widely across the Caribbean, this holiday often features fireworks and lively street parties.

Carnival: varies by island

You’ll have a fun Caribbean experience at this celebration, with parades, music, dancing, and vibrant costumes. Dates vary by island, with Trinidad and Tobago hosting one of the most famous Carnivals.

Good Friday and Easter Monday: dates vary

Many islands observe these Christian holidays, and some businesses close. Expect to see religious parades and special church services.

Labour Day: varies by island

Like Labor Day in the U.S., this public holiday celebrates workers, often with parades and festivals. The date of this holiday differs across Caribbean nations.

Emancipation Day: varies by island

Commemorating the abolition of slavery, this day features cultural events, parades, and educational activities.

Independence Day: varies by country

Many Caribbean nations have their own Independence Day, marked with national pride, fireworks, parades, and cultural performances.

Christmas Day: December 25

Just like in the U.S., Christmas is widely celebrated with family gatherings, feasts, and holiday decorations.

Boxing Day: December 26

Boxing Day comes after Christmas with shopping events, sports, and festive activities. Some islands celebrate it as a second day of Christmas.

Things to do in the Caribbean: top activities and sites to see

Ready to immerse yourself in island life? From exploring vibrant marine life to wandering historic streets, there’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise.

Top 5 things to do in the Caribbean

1. Snorkeling and scuba diving

The Caribbean is well-known for its stunning underwater ecosystems, teeming with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Popular spots include the Cayman Islands, Belize, and Cozumel.

2. Sailing and boating

With its calm, clear waters, the Caribbean is perfect for boating enthusiasts. Charter a yacht or join a sailing tour in destinations like the British Virgin Islands.

3. Hiking and nature trails

Discover lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and scenic trails. Dominica’s Waitukubuli National Trail and Puerto Rico’s El Yunque Rainforest offer some of the best hiking experiences.

4. Beach hopping

You’ll find some of the world's most beautiful beaches with Caribbean travel. Spend your days exploring the soft sands and turquoise waters of Grace Bay in Turks and Caicos or Seven Mile Beach in the Cayman Islands.

5. Cultural and historical tours

For a true Caribbean experience, immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of the islands. Visit historic sites, such as the UNESCO-listed Brimstone Hill Fortress in St. Kitts or Old San Juan in Puerto Rico.

Top 10 sites to visit in the Caribbean

1. Old San Juan (Puerto Rico)

Explore this historic district known for its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and the iconic Castillo San Felipe del Morro.

2. The Pitons (St. Lucia)

You'll have stunning views and a fun hiking experience at these Caribbean volcanoes.

3. Dunn’s River Falls (Jamaica)

Climb the terraced waterfalls and enjoy the refreshing natural pools along the way.

4. Harrison’s Cave (Barbados)

Take an underground tram tour to see stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear streams within this limestone cavern.

5. Seven Mile Beach (Grand Cayman)

Known for its gorgeous white sand and crystal-clear waters, it's a perfect spot for sunbathing and water sports.

6. Brimstone Hill Fortress (St. Kitts)

This well-preserved military fort offers panoramic views and a glimpse into colonial history.

7. Blue Hole (Belize)

This underwater sinkhole is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Not only is it part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, it's also an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

8. El Yunque National Forest (Puerto Rico)

The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, it offers lush landscapes, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.

9. Pink Sand Beach (Bahamas)

Famous for its unique, pink-colored sand and clear waters, this Harbour Island beach is perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.

10. Champagne Reef (Dominica)

A famous diving and snorkeling spot where underwater volcanic activity creates a champagne-like effect with bubbles.

Couple holding hands on beach in St. Lucia during their Caribbean travel.

What to eat and drink in the Caribbean: 5 must-try menu items

Each island serves its own special dishes, with abundant use of local spices, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits.

Top 5 Caribbean dishes and drinks to try

1. Jerk chicken

Jamaicans cook this spicy, flavorful grilled chicken with a blend of scallions, thyme, allspice, and Scotch bonnet peppers.

2. Conch fritters

A popular Bahamian dish, these deep-fried conch meat fritters have a seasoned batter, perfect for a crispy, tasty treat.

3. Roti

Originating from Trinidad and Tobago, this flatbread contains curried meats or vegetables, offering a flavorful and fulfilling meal.

4. Callaloo

This hearty, green leafy soup is a staple in many Caribbean islands, particularly in Trinidad and Tobago. The dish contains callaloo leaves, okra, and coconut milk.

5. Coconut water

Freshly harvested from young coconuts, this hydrating and refreshing drink is naturally sweet and packed with electrolytes.

How to get around in the Caribbean: best transportation options

You have various transportation options for Caribbean travel within and between islands. This makes it easy and flexible for visitors to explore the area.

Top 5 Caribbean transportation methods
1. Taxis and rideshares
Convenient and widely available, taxis offer a door-to-door service that can get you anywhere on the island. Some islands also have rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft, making it easier to get a ride from your phone.
2. Buses
Public buses are a cost-effective way to navigate the islands. They might not always run on a strict schedule, but they provide an authentic local experience and can be quite an adventure.
3. Car rentals
For the ultimate freedom and flexibility, consider renting a car. This option allows you to explore at your own pace and reach more remote and less touristy spots. Just remember to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and consider car rental collision coverage through travel insurance.
4. Bikes
Ideal for short distances and smaller islands, renting a bike allows you to enjoy Caribbean travel with a tropical breeze. You'll also be following responsible traveler best practices, as it's an eco-friendly (and fun!) way to get around.
5. Ferries and water taxis
Given that the Caribbean consists of numerous islands, ferries and water taxis are perfect for island-hopping. They offer a unique perspective from the sea, letting you enjoy stunning views during your commute.

Family on the beach during Caribbean travel.

Best places to stay in the Caribbean: top areas for tourists

When planning a trip to the Caribbean, finding the right place to stay can make all the difference. From small cottages to the best all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean, these neighborhoods have a lot to offer.

10 best places to stay in the Caribbean

1. Grace Bay, Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Famous for its stunning white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, Grace Bay offers a variety of luxury all-inclusive resorts, fine dining, and water sports.

2. Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

This historical district is a great choice for vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. Here, you'll find colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and rich history.

3. Rodney Bay, St. Lucia

This popular area has beautiful marinas, upscale hotels, and a vibrant nightlife. You can enjoy both the beach and the bustling local culture in Rodney Bay.

4. The Gap, Barbados

St. Lawrence Gap offers a mix of nightlife, dining, and beautiful beaches. The lively area is well-suited to both singles and families looking for entertainment.

5. Gros Islet, St. Lucia

Known for its Friday Night Street Party, Gros Islet combines local vibes with quality hotels and excellent seafood.

6. Cabarete, Dominican Republic

This neighborhood is a haven for kite surfers and adventure seekers. It also offers a laid-back beach town atmosphere with plenty of beachside restaurants.

7. Pink Gin Beach, Grenada

This peaceful, beautiful area offers high-end all-inclusive resorts and stunning sunsets. If you're looking for relaxation and luxury, you'll find it here.

8. Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman

With long stretches of sandy beaches and clear waters, this area offers plenty of resorts, restaurants, and water activities.

9. Negril, Jamaica

Famous for its beautiful Seven Mile Beach and dramatic sunsets, Negril provides a relaxed atmosphere. You can find various lodging options ranging from all-inclusive resorts to charming cottages.

10. English Harbour, Antigua

In this historical area, don't miss Nelson's Dockyard and its beautifully restored Georgian buildings. History buffs and sailing enthusiasts will likely have a great time here.

Your packing list: what to bring for Caribbean travel

Wondering what to pack for your Caribbean experience? Remember to prioritize lightweight and comfortable clothing, along with some extra necessities.

Top 10 things to pack for Caribbean travel

1. Sunscreen

Protect your skin from the tropical sun with a high-SPF sunscreen to prevent sunburns.

2. Swimwear

Pack a variety of swimsuits for the beach, pool, and water activities.

3. Lightweight clothing

Include breathable, lightweight outfits to stay cool in the warm climate.

4. Sandals and flip-flops

Comfortable footwear is essential for beach days and casual outings.

5. Sun hat

A wide-brimmed hat will help shield your face from the intense sun.

6. Sunglasses

Protect your eyes with good-quality sunglasses that offer UV protection.

7. Reusable water bottle

Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste by carrying a refillable water bottle.

8. Insect repellent

Ward off mosquitoes and other insects with a reliable repellent.

9. Travel documents

Ensure you have your passport and any necessary visas readily available.

10. Travel insurance

Consider protecting your Caribbean travel expenses, in case you have unexpected mishaps like canceled flights and lost baggage. Learn more about our travel insurance for the Caribbean now.

Want to feel more confident about your Caribbean travel plans?

Our travel insurance and award-winning customer service can help. Get a quote now. 

Question 2

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.

Question 3

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.

Question 4

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.

Question 5

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.

Things to know before you go to the Caribbean