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Travel Insurance for Domestic Travel

What You Need to Know

Domestic Travel Deserves Protection Too

When you're traveling in the United States, it's easy to lull yourself into a false sense of security. Of course, you'd never travel overseas or internationally without adequate travel insurance, but do you really need it for a trip to another part of the country?

The answer is yes — it's still a good idea to get travel insurance, even when you're taking a trip within the U.S. If nothing else, it protects your trip investment in case you have to cancel.

Domestic trips still come with all the risks of overseas travel: cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and emergency medical expenses. Travel insurance for domestic travel makes sure you're covered and get reimbursed should any of these situations arise.

The truth is that domestic vacations can be as fun — or as stressful and unpredictable — as international ones, so it's best to make sure you're prepared for every eventuality.

Health & Safety in the U.S.

The U.S. is a vast nation, so traveling to another part of it can raise health and safety risks you may not be used to at home. Risks tend to be regional, and vary depending on where you’re traveling.

Crime rates vary depending on the city and state that you’re in. In general, take precautions in large cities, and stay out of areas where there are any large demonstrations or unrest.

It’s popular to drive across the United States, and if you take to the open road, you’ll need to be adequately prepared. Your vehicle should be properly maintained before you head out, stocked with a first-aid kit, jumper cables, tire-repair kit, flashlight, water, and a portable phone charger. For extra security, consider a roadside assistance membership through AAA or other services.

Weather can change quickly as you cross state lines, so if you’re driving at the height of summer or winter, make sure you pack the right clothing and equipment, and never let your vehicle get too low on fuel.

Remember, just because you’re traveling in your own country doesn’t mean things can’t still go wrong.

Insurance Benefits & Coverage for a U.S. Trip

The components of any good travel insurance policy — even a domestic one — are the same. When you purchase travel insurance, you want to make sure your policy covers all the areas below, so that way you’ll be prepared no matter what happens during your trip.

Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance: Trip cancellation insurance and trip interruption coverage reimburses your non refundable trip expenses if your trip is canceled or cut short due to covered reasons like illness, severe weather, or family emergencies. For extra flexibility and peace of mind, cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance is usually available as an add-on.

Travel medical insurance: Travel medical insurance can cover medical expenses that arise during your domestic trip. If you have pre-existing medical conditions, you’ll need to apply for a waiver when you purchase travel insurance. Remember, your health insurance coverage may not cover you if you are out of network or in another state, or you may struggle to find a provider that accepts your insurance. This coverage makes sure you don’t have to pay out of pocket.

Emergency medical evacuation insurance: Emergency evacuation coverage reimburses you for transportation to the nearest medical facility in extreme or emergency situations. If you’re doing any adventurous travel within the U.S., such as hiking the Rocky Mountains, it’s important to have this.

Baggage and personal belongings insurance: This covers loss, theft, or damage to your belongings should they go missing during your trip.

Trip delay insurance: Travel delay benefits compensate you for additional expenses incurred if your trip is delayed before it starts, or during any connections or transfers.

Redpoint has a selection of policies that are tailor-made for every type of trip. For domestic travel within the U.S., consider our Harbor policy.

Specially designed for interstate travel and offering robust coverage for the budget-minded leisure traveler, Harbor includes an array of covered reasons for trip cancellation, interruption, and delay, plus lost baggage, primary medical expense coverage, pandemic coverage, and emergency medical expenses, including evacuation. Check out our Harbor page to get a quote today.

FAQs for Domestic Travel Insurance

Do I need travel insurance to travel domestically?

While not required, domestic travel insurance cover can be beneficial for U.S. trips, especially if the trip is costly or involves non-refundable expenses. Insurance can cover unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, delays, or medical emergencies, which may be harder or more expensive to manage while away from home.

How much is travel insurance for a trip within the United States?

Most of Redpoint's travel insurance plans for the U.S. range from 6% to 15% of the total trip cost

What should your travel insurance cover for a domestic trip?

For a domestic trip, travel insurance should ideally cover trip cancellations, trip interruptions, trip delays, and emergency medical coverage. Coverage for lost baggage, missed connections, and travel delay expenses can also be useful if the trip involves multiple flights or high-value items.

While your usual medical coverage could technically cover you anywhere in the U.S., it may be challenging to find an in-network provider while you're traveling or if you're involved in an emergency. You could also experience extra costs, such as emergency transportation to a medical facility.

Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for traveling domestically?

COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted for domestic travel within the U.S., but some areas may still have specific rules or norms, especially for healthcare facilities.

What happens if a tourist gets sick while traveling domestically?

If a traveler falls ill within the U.S., their primary health insurance may still cover treatment. However, travel insurance can help cover additional expenses, such as urgent care visits or emergency transportation, that might be costly without specific coverage. And in the event you can't find a medical provider within your network, travel insurance ensures you don't have to pay out of pocket.

How can I find good hospitals or urgent care while I'm traveling domestically?

If you are struggling to find an appropriate care provider when you're traveling, you can contact Redpoint's 24/7 assistance line at +1-415-481-0610. Our round-the-clock service will help you locate a suitable facility — such as a hospital or urgent care — in a medical emergency.

Is it safe for female travelers to travel domestically?

Female travelers in the U.S. typically enjoy a safe travel experience, though it’s always wise to remain aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar places. In addition, always keep someone informed of your itinerary, and check in regularly.

Protect your trip with Redpoint travel insurance

Redpoint is known for its comprehensive and easy-to-understand policies, which can suit any type of trip, from an adventurous road trip across the U.S. to a weekend in a great American city. Explore our Ripcord, Cavalry, and Harbor policy options, and get a quote that meets your travel needs today.