The best cards for trip cancellation and interruption insurance — and what it actually covers

Quick summary Trip cancellation and interruption insurance can reimburse nonrefundable travel expenses if you cancel or cut short a trip for covered reasons like illness or severe weather. Many travel credit cards offer this insurance at no additional cost when you use the card to book travel, but coverage limits and eligible expenses vary widely by card. Some cards provide higher coverage limits and broader eligibility, including coverage for immediate family members and, in some cases, traveling companions. To qualify for reimbursement, you typically must pay for all or part of your trip with the eligible card or associated rewards. What to consider Coverage usually applies only to the portion of the trip charged to the eligible card or booked with associated rewards. Definitions of who is covered, such as family members or traveling companions, differ by card and may affect eligibility. Claim deadlines and required documentation vary; always review your card’s benefits guide for specific terms, conditions and exclusions. What you'll miss from the article A detailed comparison of coverage differences, eligibility rules and step-by-step guidance on filing claims for trip cancellation and interruption insurance. Generated by AI with support from our editorial team. Show summary