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Tech Outage: How to Get Reimbursed if Your Flight Was Canceled or Delayed

Did the global Microsoft outage disrupt your travel plans? Here's how to get reimbursed if your flight was canceled or delayed.

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A global technology outage disrupted several major airlines, causing thousands of flight cancellations and delays on Friday July 19. The tech outage impacted banks , media outlets and hospital systems around the world as well. Days after the outage, Delta travelers are still experiencing the effects.

On Friday, many unlucky travelers had to wait for hours trapped at the airport to try to check in and get onto their flights with the systems down. The glitch led to all flights getting temporarily grounded for Allegiant Air, American, Delta, Spirit and United, according to The New York Times . There were challenges and delays at many American airports, including in major hubs like Los Angeles, Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago and New York, CNN reported . 

Ultimately, the problem stemmed from a software update by CrowdStrike, a cybersecurity company . Over the course of the day Friday, the various impacted systems slowly returned to operational normalcy. 

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And while most airlines have recovered from the outage, Delta is still struggling. According to FlightAware, on Sunday, Delta canceled over 1,300 flights and delayed over 1,600. On Monday, the airline had over 700 cancellations and over 1,000 delays, more than any other airline. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Delta's main hub and the busiest airport in the world, is facing extreme crowds and long lines at airline counters as thousands of travelers get stuck at the airport. 

This past weekend, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, spoke to Delta CEO Ed Bastian, saying his agency has received " hundreds of complaints " about Delta and he expects the airline to issue prompt refunds and assistance to customers.

If your flight was canceled or delayed due to the tech glitch, here’s what you need to know about reimbursement for your disrupted flights. 

How to get reimbursed if your flight was canceled or delayed

Consumers are entitled to a refund if an airline cancels a flight, regardless of the reason, and the consumer chooses not to travel, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation . Refunds are also given if the airline makes a “significant schedule change” and/or “significantly delays” a flight and the consumer chooses not to travel. 

Although what determines a “significant change” has not been explicitly outlined by the DOT, in this case, the DOT will hold airline companies responsible for issuing reimbursements, USA Today reported . 

Typically, airlines don’t provide compensation for delayed flights over three hours, except for Alaska, JetBlue and Southwest. You can check the DOT’s Customer Service Dashboard to get more information about each airline’s policy. 

The good news is several major airlines, including Delta , American and United , have already issued waivers to customers in the wake of the tech outage to reimburse their flights or allow them to rebook travel for no additional cost. 

The following was shared by airlines: Delta customers can rebook travel up to July 28. United customers can rebook travel up to July 25. American Airlines is waiving a change fee for those who were booked to fly Friday the 19th. Frontier customers whose flights were delayed by more than 180 minutes or canceled can rebook flights at no charge or cancel flights for a full refund. Additionally, Frontier said that change fees are waived for rescheduled travel completed on/before July 25, 2025.  Spirit is allowing customers to rebook or get a refund on flights for those that were canceled or delayed by more than 2 hours. The fare difference is waived through July 28, 2024.

Often, if you need to rebook but can’t find suitable flights from the airline you made the initial booking with, you can rebook with a partner airline or another airline with which it has an agreement (again, at no additional cost). Changing travel dates, instead of opting for a full refund, is worth considering. If you take the refund and rebook travel at a later date, prices could be more expensive than they were to begin with, meaning you’ll end up spending more money. 

To start the reimbursement process, call your airline’s customer service line or go to the customer service desk if you’re already at the airport. 

Also note that not only can you get compensation for the price of the airfare itself, but most airlines also offer meal vouchers and hotel accommodations for customers. All major airlines offer meal vouchers when cancellation results in passengers waiting for 3 hours or more for a flight, and most offer complimentary hotel accommodations for any passenger affected by an overnight cancellation.

Unfortunately, automatic refunds aren’t available yet, but will be later this year. The Department of Transportation announced in April that airlines will soon be required to promptly provide passengers with automatic cash refunds when owed.  

Does travel insurance cover canceled or delayed flights?

Situations like this are when travel insurance comes in handy. Most travel insurance policies cover canceled flights or those delayed by at least 3 to 12 hours. 

Some policies also cover accommodation and food costs, missed trip events that were pre-paid and added costs for meeting up with your cruise or travel group, according to Progressive . If federal law requires an airline to reimburse you for a delay or cancellation, file a claim through your airline. However, other prepaid, nonrefundable costs caused by the covered delay or cancellation can be filed through your insurance provider.

If you don’t have a separate travel insurance policy, there’s a good chance you already have cancellation or delay coverage through your travel credit card , so it’s important to stay up to date with your card’s terms and conditions. Check out these 10 credit cards with travel insurance .

Related Content

• Should You Use a Credit Card Travel Portal?
• How You Can Get Your Money Back When a Vacation Abroad Goes Awry
• Credit Cards That Cover Rental Car Insurance
• How the Tech Outage Impacted Banks and Finances

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Erin pairs personal experience with research and is passionate about sharing personal finance advice with others. Previously, she was a freelancer focusing on the credit card side of finance, but has branched out since then to cover other aspects of personal finance. Erin is well-versed in traditional media with reporting, interviewing and research, as well as using graphic design and video and audio storytelling to share with her readers.

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Does Travel Insurance Cover Cancelled Flights?

27 March, 2024

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Sharon Petersen

Travel insurance has seen a surge in popularity over the years, but along with this popularity comes increased complexity. While offering numerous benefits tailored to individual needs, the intricacies of travel insurance can sometimes be daunting. Understanding how your insurance safeguards you in various scenarios, such as flight cancellations, is crucial for informed decision-making when faced with such situations.

AirAdvisor is a claims management company who fight for air passenger rights. As experts in the area they have shared their help with AirlinRatings.

Joanna Teljeur, senior Editor and Writer at AirAdvisor shares the following .

When purchasing travel insurance, specific coverage for cancelled flights may not always be explicitly stated. However, most insurance packages include benefits that encompass such situations. The activation of these benefits depends on whether the flight disruption leads to trip delays, interruptions, or cancellations.

When Does Travel Insurance Cover a Cancelled Flight

In the event of a flight cancellation, regardless of the destination—whether within the EU, UK, US, or Canada—passengers are entitled to rebooking on the next available flight or a full ticket refund if they opt not to travel.

Opting for a flight refund from the airline due to cancellation may result in financial losses for pre-arranged travel plans like hotel bookings or car rentals. However, with the right travel insurance coverage, such losses can be mitigated, as the insurance typically covers prepaid expenses in the event of a cancelled flight, provided the reason falls within the policy's coverage.

How Travel Delay Insurance Can Help

Travel delay insurance can unexpectedly offer protection for cancelled flights in certain scenarios. For instance, if a cancelled flight necessitates an overnight stay, this insurance can cover expenses such as hotel accommodations and meals, particularly in regions like the UK, EU, or Canada where regulations mandate such compensations.

In contrast, passengers travelling within the United States might not receive mandated care and assistance from airlines in such situations. Nevertheless, having insurance can alleviate the financial burden of out-of-pocket expenses incurred due to flight cancellations.

How Travel Interruption or Travel Cancellation Can Help

Travel interruption or cancellation insurance can address more complex situations, such as rebooking on alternate flights that do not align with original travel plans. In such cases, this insurance may cover the price difference for last-minute tickets and reimburse prepaid expenses affected by the cancelled flight.

Do You Need Cover for Cancelled Flights?

The necessity of insurance for cancelled flights ultimately depends on individual travel plans and financial considerations. While regulations in certain regions may offer some coverage, having additional protection through travel insurance is advisable for comprehensive coverage.

AirAdvisor suggests utilizing their flight cancellation calculato r to determine eligibility for compensation in the event of flight cancellations. This tool can help travellers assess potential claims, ensuring they do not overlook compensation they are entitled to.

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How to Use Travel Insurance to Cancel a Flight

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Table of Contents

Basic process for travel insurance flight cancellation

Additional tips for travel insurance flight cancellation, if you need to cancel a flight with travel insurance.

Travel insurance can reimburse you for the nonrefundable portion of your flight expenses when you have to cancel a trip due to serious illness, a death in the immediate family, natural disaster or other reason specifically covered by your policy. But to make sure your claim is processed, you need to cancel your flight and file your claim the right way.

If you’ve been wondering how to cancel a flight with travel insurance — here's what you need to do.

The steps necessary to cancel a flight with travel insurance vary by travel insurance company, but many have the same basic process for submitting a claim.

1. Cancel your flight with the airline

Contact the airline to cancel your flight. For most airlines, this can be done online, through its app or by calling customer service. The airline isn't concerned about whether or not you have travel insurance protections.

» Learn more: Airline travel insurance vs. independent travel insurance: Which is right for you?

2. Determine the amount of your claim

When you cancel a plane ticket, you may be entitled to a refund of some or all of your ticket price. Travel insurance reimburses you for the nonrefundable portions of your affected travel plans; your claim amount is the price of your nonrefundable travel plans minus refunds that you have received, up to your eligible limits.

3. Start your claim

Claims can be started online or over the telephone with most travel insurance providers. Some allow you to submit your claim through their mobile app. To get started, have your policy information and travel details handy.

» Learn more: The majority of Americans plan to travel in 2022

4. Review the claim documentation checklist

Travel insurance companies often provide a checklist of documents you’ll need to process your claim. Gather all of the documents required by the insurance company, even if you don't understand why it is asking for them.

5. Submit your supporting documents

Once you have the documents, submit them to the travel insurance company for its review. It's best to submit all of the information at once, rather than piecemeal, so that the claims adjuster can quickly make a decision.

6. Respond to additional requests right away

If the insurance company requests additional documents or information, respond as quickly as possible. If too much time passes, your claim could be denied.

» Learn more: The best credit cards for travel insurance benefits

Here are tips for dealing with a trip cancellation to make the process as smooth as possible.

Determine if you're canceling for a covered reason. A common question travelers have when they need to cancel a trip is: Can I cancel my flight with travel insurance? Depending on your policy, the answer may be yes. With many trip insurance policies, you can expect to get reimbursed only if you cancel for a covered reason, like serious illness, terrorist attack or death in the immediate family. Review your policy to determine what reasons are eligible for coverage.

Document everything and save all receipts. Save all of your receipts, emails and other items related to the trip. Keep a journal of all communications with the airlines, your doctor (if applicable), the insurance agency and anyone else related to your claim. Consider scanning and backing up your documents in case they are lost.

Call your doctor if you’re sick. You may not be feeling well, but can you prove you are sick enough that a reasonable person would need to cancel the flight? A doctor’s advice that you cancel your trip can help prove that your travel insurance claim is valid.

Contact your travel insurance company right away. You should start your travel insurance claim as quickly as possible. If you don't submit your claim and supporting documentation within the required timeframe, your claim will be denied.

Consider rescheduling your flight. After the pandemic struck, many airlines dropped the fees for changing flights . If you are planning to make this trip in the near future, contact the airline to ask about rescheduling your flight. This could be quicker and easier than trying to get reimbursed through insurance.

Remember that travel companions might be covered, too. Review your travel policy to see if it covers travel companions as well.

Buy the right insurance coverage from the get-go. The most flexible types of plans are Cancel For Any Reason, or CFAR plans; you can avoid a lot of phone calls and proof-of-coverage demands by purchasing CFAR policies.

Travel insurance offers protection in case you need to cancel a flight. Follow the steps carefully and document everything to prevent the insurance company from denying your claim.

Before canceling, discuss your situation with the airline to see if you can cancel or reschedule your flight without incurring a fee. This may be quicker and easier than submitting a claim through your travel insurance provider.

To file a trip cancellation claim on travel insurance, contact your insurance provider online, through its app or by phone. They will provide detailed instructions on how to submit your claim, including what documentation they'll need based on your reason for filing a claim.

In many cases, yes, you can cancel your flight and be reimbursed if you have an eligible reason for canceling. You may not cancel the flight because you've changed your mind. You must have a valid reason that is detailed in your travel insurance policy.

Travel insurance reimburses the cost of nonrefundable travel plans if you need to cancel your flight for a covered reason. To receive reimbursement, you must file a claim and submit supporting documentation that validates your eligibility to receive reimbursement.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

How to Cancel Admiral Travel Insurance: The Ins and Outs of Cancellation

Are you looking to cancel your Admiral Travel Insurance? It can be hard to know what steps to take and where to start. I’ve been researching and studying the cancellation process for Admiral Travel Insurance, so I’m here to give you an overview of what’s involved.

In this article, we’ll cover the ins and outs of cancelling a travel insurance policy with Admiral from understanding your rights as a customer, checking if you’re eligible for any refunds or discounts, finding out which documents are needed for cancellation and more. We’ll even go into detail about how long it takes until your policy is cancelled – something most customers worry about when taking that big step! From start to finish this guide will provide all the necessary knowledge for successfully cancelling your travel insurance policy with Admiral!

Cancelling Your Admiral Travel Insurance Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide

So, you’ve booked that dream vacation, and along with it, you wisely purchased travel insurance from Admiral. But life happens, plans change, and now you find yourself needing to cancel your insurance policy. Don’t worry – I’m here to guide you through the process step by step.

First things first: gather all your policy information. You’ll need your policy number handy – it’s usually mentioned in the confirmation email or on the physical copy of your insurance documents. Once you have this important piece of information at hand, head over to Admiral’s website.

On the website, navigate to their customer service section – it’s usually located at the top right corner of the homepage. Look for a link called “Cancellation” or “Policy Cancellation.” Click on it and brace yourself for a new page full of possibilities (well… maybe not so exciting).

Once on the cancellation page, locate their cancellation form. It should be a simple online form that asks for basic details like your name, contact information, and most importantly – yes! You guessed right – that elusive policy number we talked about earlier!

Fill out all required fields diligently; don’t leave any room for ambiguity because accuracy is key when it comes to cancellations (and many other things in life). Double-check everything before hitting that submit button! And voilà! You’re one step closer to cancelling your Admiral travel insurance policy.

Now sit back and relax while they process your request (cue imaginary bubble bath). In a few days’ time – typically within 5-10 business days – expect an email confirming the successful cancellation of your policy along with any relevant refund details.

And there you have it – canceling an Admiral travel insurance policy made easy peasy lemon squeezy! Just remember: gather all necessary documentation beforehand; navigate through their website like a pro; fill out that online form accurately; wait patiently during processing; rejoice when confirmation arrives via email. Bon voyage!

Exploring the Reasons for Cancelling Admiral Travel Insurance

When it comes to canceling travel insurance, there can be a myriad of factors at play. Whether it’s due to unforeseen circumstances or a change in plans, cancelling Admiral Travel Insurance is a decision that should not be taken lightly. So, let’s delve into the various reasons why someone might choose to cancel their policy.

1. Change in travel plans: Life can throw unexpected curveballs our way, and sometimes these surprises can lead to changes in our travel itinerary. Perhaps you were planning on jetting off to an exotic destination but now find yourself needing to stay closer to home for personal reasons. In such cases, cancelling your travel insurance with Admiral would make sense since it no longer aligns with your revised plans.

2. Financial constraints: Money matters are often at the forefront of our minds when making decisions about insurance policies. If you’re facing financial difficulties and need some extra cash flow, cancelling your Admiral Travel Insurance could be an option worth considering – especially if you haven’t yet embarked on your trip and don’t anticipate any major risks during your travels.

3. Alternative coverage options: Sometimes, life presents us with alternative means of protection that we hadn’t previously considered or were unaware of. For instance, if you find out that your credit card provides sufficient coverage for unforeseen events during your trip (such as lost luggage or medical emergencies), then cancelling Admiral Travel Insurance may seem redundant and unnecessary.

All in all, each individual’s circumstances are unique when deciding whether or not to cancel their Admiral Travel Insurance policy. It’s important to carefully evaluate the reasons behind this potential cancellation before making a final decision – after all, peace of mind while traveling is priceless!

Understanding Admiral Travel Insurance: Coverage and Benefits

Admiral Travel Insurance is a reliable option for those looking to protect themselves and their loved ones during any unexpected travel mishaps. This comprehensive coverage offers peace of mind, ensuring that you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about potential setbacks.

One of the key benefits of Admiral Travel Insurance is its extensive coverage. Whether it’s medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage, this insurance has got you covered. Imagine yourself basking in the sun on a tropical island when suddenly you fall ill – not an ideal situation, right? But fear not! Admiral Travel Insurance will take care of your medical expenses and even arrange for emergency repatriation if necessary.

Trip cancellation is another area where Admiral excels. Life happens and plans change unexpectedly; we’ve all been there. With this insurance plan, you won’t have to worry about losing out financially if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel your trip last minute. Your non-refundable expenses like flights and accommodation will be reimbursed so that you can reschedule without breaking the bank.

Let’s talk about lost luggage – every traveler’s worst nightmare! However, with Admiral Travel Insurance by your side, this fear becomes unfounded. If the airline misplaces or loses your baggage during transit (trust me, it happens more often than we’d like), Admiral steps in to cover any financial losses incurred due to such an unfortunate event.

To sum it up briefly: Admiral Travel Insurance provides wide-ranging coverage for various travel-related situations including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage incidents. So next time wanderlust takes hold of you and calls out for adventure in far-flung destinations – remember to arm yourself with the protection of Admiral Travel Insurance before embarking on your journey!

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Travel Insurance for Flight Cancellations: 2024 Guide

with our partner, Faye

Alex Carver is a writer and researcher based in Charlotte, N.C. A contributor to major news websites such as Automoblog and USA Today, she’s written content in sectors such as insurance, warranties, shipping, real estate and more.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

Here’s a breakdown of how we reviewed and rated the best travel insurance companies

Taking off on a flight to your vacation destination is an exciting moment. But unforeseen circumstances can cause long delays and flight cancellations — and adventures cut short. That’s where travel insurance comes in. Travel insurance offers the assurance that you’ll get reimbursed for non-refundable travel costs from a travel insurance provider. Frequent or business travelers also benefit from this safety net for flight cancellations.

Flight insurance is usually sold as part of a comprehensive travel plan that includes trip interruption and trip cancellation coverage along with emergency medical insurance. Because most airlines aren’t required to compensate you for flight delays, trip delay travel protection helps you recoup losses for tours and accommodation.

Understanding Travel Insurance Coverage for Real Scenarios

When you buy travel insurance, comprehensive plans typically reimburse you the costs of canceled and delayed flights through travel delay coverage and trip cancellation insurance. Depending on the plan you choose, you can get reimbursed full refunds or prepaid costs once you qualify during the claims process. Reimbursements may include the money you paid for extra accommodations and food.

Whether you buy flight insurance with your airfare from major airlines or through another travel supplier, flight cancellation protection is subject to limited circumstances. These may include:

• Bad weather or natural disasters that cause the airline to cancel flights
• Medical emergencies causing you to cancel flights
• The unexpected death or illness of a family member or travel companion
• Delays caused by missed flight connections

For more flexibility, consider CFAR — cancel for any reason coverage. It’s still subject to exclusions and conditions, such as the requirement to cancel within 48 hours of the departure date. But the reasons for canceling are at your discretion. About 75% of prepaid non-refundable trip expenses get reimbursed.

Will Travel Insurance Cover Airline Cancellation?

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation , if an airline cancels your flight or makes changes that cause significant delays, you’re entitled to a refund if you choose not to reschedule. But the definition of a “significant delay” gets decided on a case-by-case basis, and refunds aren’t guaranteed.

Travel insurance covers the specific emergency reasons outlined in your policy. Under trip delay, interruption or cancellation policies, other expenses are covered. For example, if inclement weather results in a canceled flight with a delay to reschedule, you may need to cancel a non-refundable excursion through a tour operator. Insurance benefits help recoup these financial losses.

Does Travel Insurance Cover Delayed Flights?

If your flight is delayed significantly, an airline may offer to refund your money under certain conditions. Travel insurance features trip cancellation and trip delay benefits to reimburse you for applicable expenses incurred. Costs might include transportation, food and accommodations while you wait for a rescheduled flight if the airline doesn’t come through with hotel and food vouchers.

As a general rule, trip delay benefits apply after a specifically defined length of time. For example, you might need to be delayed for at least five hours to qualify for reimbursement or extra transportation. Daily spending limits typically apply for additional expenses incurred.

Will Travel Insurance Cover Costs if I Need to Switch Flights?

Travel insurance for flight changes is also available. But most policies don’t cover you if you simply change your mind about a flight. Trip interruption and cancellation policies cover a range of unforeseen circumstances. For example, a trip cancellation claim may reimburse the difference in cost between a canceled flight and a more expensive alternative to get you to a destination on time.

Does Travel Insurance Cover If Connecting Flights Get Canceled?

If your connecting flights get canceled, the airline may offer you a refund or put you on another flight (likely the latter). Travel insurance reimburses you for non-refundable trip costs relating to trip interruptions or cancellations. If you miss a connecting flight for reasons listed in your policy, part of your prepaid trip expenses get reimbursed along with any extra expenses you incurred to get pushed forward on your trip or to get home.

Choosing the Right Travel Insurance Plan

The quality of travel insurance plans varies. That makes it important to compare as you shop. When selecting a plan for flight cancellations, choose one with competitive coverage for the following:

• Trip cancellation coverage : This policy can reimburse you for non-refundable, prepaid trip costs for trips canceled for reasons that are covered by your policy, such as the death of a family member or a medical emergency. Reimbursements include airline tickets, hotel rooms and tours. Coverage limits can range from $10,000 for basic plans up to $300,000 for premium plans.
• Trip delay coverage : If your flight gets delayed for reasons that are covered in your policy, such as severe weather or airline maintenance, your plan provides financial relief for expenses, such as alternative transportation, food and accommodations. Basic plans may have a $300 coverage limit and a daily spending limit of $150.
• Trip interruption coverage : You may need to cut your trip short because of an injury or an unexpected event. Trip interruption coverage may reimburse you for non-refundable expenses including prepaid airline tickets and accommodation. Coverage limits can range from $5,000 for basic plans to $300,000 for premium plans.

While it’s possible to buy basic travel insurance with trip cancellation policies only, most are comprehensive. They include emergency medical and baggage loss coverage. Upgrades for CFAR, pre-existing medical conditions and rental car coverage provide further protection.

Use the tool below to find and compare rates for plans with flight insurance to suit your travel requirements.

Making a Claim for Flight Cancellations

To file a claim, most travel insurance companies offer systems via websites, apps and customer support teams available by phone and email. For flight cancellations , claims are usually filed under trip cancellation, interruption or delay coverage. With each claim, you’re required to present supporting documentation highlighting reasons for cancellation. This may include:

• Proof of an emergency or incident, such as a doctor’s certificate or a police report
• Copies of itineraries for all trip components claimed, including flight bookings
• Receipts for expenses incurred because of flight delays, such as meals and accommodations

Insurance companies process claims to approve them for reimbursement. Once complete, most companies send a payment to your selected account ( credit card , bank, etc.).

Common Challenges Travelers Face

You can get confused reading travel insurance policies as you figure out what’s covered and what’s not. A common challenge travelers encounter is misunderstanding a policy’s terms and conditions. As a general rule, travel insurance covers losses from unforeseen circumstances.

With flights and trip cancellations, covered reasons include emergencies, such as unexpected natural disasters, the death of a family member or a serious illness or injury. Otherwise, any flight cancellation refunds fall to the discretion of the airline.

Tips To Minimize Flight Cancellation Risks

Unless you experience an unexpected emergency, it’s possible to minimize the risks of flight cancellations and enjoy smooth journeys. Reduce the likelihood of it happening to you with the tips below.

• Book flights that depart early in the morning. Statistically, they’re the least delayed and least canceled.
• Choose nonstop flights to eliminate the risk of missed or delayed connections.
• Pick airlines with multiple flights to your destination per day for easy rescheduling if necessary.
• Ensure your airline offers a suitable cancellation policy.
• Travel a day or two in advance of events or celebrations that you don’t want to miss
• Monitor the weather at home and at your intended destination to be forewarned of potential cancellations.
• Implement backup transport plans if possible, including driving routes, ferry and train timetables.

Should You Get Travel Insurance For Flight Cancellations?

Travel is much more than a trip; it’s an investment. With so many things that can go wrong, it’s important to protect travel investments with comprehensive insurance for flight cancellations. Along with reimbursement for flights in emergencies, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing additional costs, such as hotel rooms and meals, are covered if your trip is delayed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What happens if my flight is canceled.

Your airline will put you on another flight or, in some cases, offer you a refund. Travel insurance protects with reimbursement for flights canceled via predetermined reasons covered by policies, along with additional expenses.

Do I need flight insurance?

We recommend flight insurance as a safety net for unexpected circumstances. These may include the death of a family member or a serious injury that results in canceling flights.

What does flight insurance normally cover?

As part of comprehensive travel insurance plans, flight insurance covers the cost of non-refundable, canceled flights subject to limited reasons. Most providers also offer coverage for flight delays and tours missed due to cancellations.

Does travel insurance cover hotel expenses if my flight is canceled?

Yes. Trip interruption and cancellation coverage provide reimbursement for hotel expenses, meals and alternative transport required due to canceled flights.

Methodology: Our System for Rating Travel Insurance Companies

• A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to the United Kingdom.
• A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to the United Kingdom.
• A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to France.
• A 27-year-old couple taking a $1,200 trip to Greece.
• A 51-year-old couple taking a $2,000 trip to Spain.
• Plan availability (10%): We look for insurers with a variety of travel insurance plans and the ability to customize a policy with coverage upgrades.
• Coverage details (29%): We review the baseline coverage each company offers in its cheapest comprehensive plan. A provider with robust coverage earns full points, including baggage delay and loss, COVID-19 coverage, emergency evacuation and medical coverage, trip delay and cancellation coverage, and more. Companies also receive points for offering a variety of policy add-ons like accidental death and dismemberment, extreme sports, valuable items, cancel for any reason coverage and more.
• Coverage times and amounts (34%): We compare each company’s waiting periods and maximum reimbursement amounts for baggage, travel and weather delays. Companies that offer customers reimbursement after fewer than 12 hours of delays earn full points in this category. We also reward travel insurance providers that cover more than 100% of trip costs in the event of cancellations or interruptions.
• Company service and reviews (17%): We look for indicators that a company is well-prepared to respond to customer needs. Companies with an established global resource network, 24/7 emergency hotline, mobile app, multiple ways to file a claim and concierge services score higher in this category. We assess reputation by evaluating consumer reviews, third-party financial strength and customer experience ratings, specifically from AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

For more information, read our full travel insurance methodology.

A.M. Best Disclaimer

If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at editors@marketwatchguides. com .

MarketWatch Guides may receive compensation from companies that appear on this page.
The compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear, but it does not influence the recommendations the editorial team provides. Not all companies, products, or offers were reviewed.

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Imagine this, you’ve been saving up for months to take that dream vacation. You’ve got everything covered, from flights to accommodations, and you can’t wait to finally escape life for a little while. But what if your flight gets delayed or, worse, cancelled? What if you get sick or injured, or your luggage gets lost or stolen?

While we don’t like to think about the possibility of something going wrong, the truth is that travelling to a foreign land can be unpredictable. That’s where Admiral Travel Insurance comes in. With a variety of comprehensive coverage options, Admiral Travel Insurance can provide you with the financial security you might require while vacationing.

Join us in this blog as we take a closer look at Admiral Travel Insurance and how you can benefit from it.

What is Admiral Travel Insurance?

Admiral Travel Insurance is a UK-based insurance provider that offers travel insurance for both domestic and international trips. With 30 years in the business, the company provides affordable and reliable travel insurance coverage to customers. Admiral Travel Insurance is underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance SE, and it is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The company is committed to providing affordable travel insurance coverage that meets the diverse needs of travellers.

Types of Covers Offered by Admiral Travel Insurance

Admiral Travel Insurance offers a range of travel insurance covers to suit the different needs and budgets of their customers. 

Single Trip Travel Insurance

This cover is ideal for travellers taking a one-off trip. It provides comprehensive protection for unexpected events, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen baggage.

Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance

This cover is suitable for travellers who take multiple trips throughout the year. It provides the same comprehensive protection as the single trip cover, but for multiple trips, potentially saving you money on premiums.

Backpacker Travel Insurance

Folks who travel for an extended period, typically for more than three months, will hugely benefit from this cover. This plan provides coverage for medical emergencies, personal liability, and other unexpected events that can occur while backpacking.

Cruise Travel Insurance

This cover is ideal for travellers going on a cruise holiday. It provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other events specific to cruise travel, such as missed port departures and cabin confinement.

Winter Sports Travel Insurance

This cover is designed for travellers who plan to go skiing or snowboarding. It provides coverage for medical emergencies, equipment loss or damage, and other unexpected events that can occur while engaging in winter sports.

Business Travel Insurance

This cover is suitable for business travellers who require protection against unexpected events that can occur while travelling for work, such as trip cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, and personal liability.

Read More: Travel Insurance with COVID Cover

Benefits of buying the Admiral Travel Insurance 

There are several benefits to purchasing Admiral Travel Insurance for your next trip:

Flexible policy options & comprehensive coverage

The company offers a range of policy options and comprehensive coverage to suit different types of travellers, from single-trip cover to annual multi-trip cover, backpacker cover, cruise cover, winter sports cover, and more. This flexibility allows you to choose a policy that meets your needs and budget.

24/7 emergency assistance

24/7 emergency assistance is provided to policyholders who need help while travelling. This assistance includes access to medical assistance, travel advice, and more. Their team of experienced and friendly staff are available to answer any questions you may have about your policy or the claims process.

Easy claims process

Admiral Travel Insurance has a simple and straightforward claims process: online or over the phone. This makes it easy to file a claim if you experience an unexpected event while travelling. 

Optional covers

The company offers a range of optional covers that can be added to any policy, such as hazardous activity cover, gadget cover, and cruise plus cover. These covers provide additional protection for specific events or activities, giving you added peace of mind while travelling.

Also, Read: Tesco Travel Insurance

Admiral Travel Insurance Reviews 

Admiral Travel Insurance has received mixed reviews from customers. Most customers have praised the company for its comprehensive coverage, affordable premiums, and excellent customer service.

However, some customers report difficulties in getting claims approved or receiving payment, while others have found that certain events may not be covered by their policy. Additionally, some even have reported confusion over policy exclusions due to unclear explanations. Overall, while Admiral Travel Insurance has its strengths, it’s important for potential customers to do their research and understand the details of their policy to ensure it meets their needs.

Admiral Travel Insurance Login 

Admiral Travel Insurance offers an easy-to-use online portal where customers can log in to manage their policies, view policy documents, and make payments. Here’s how you can create an account on the Admiral website:

• In the top right corner, click on the “My Account” tab and then the “Register” button, followed by filling out the required information.
• You will receive an email from Admiral confirming your registration. Through the link provided, activate your account. 
• Once done, go back to the “My Account” tab on the Admiral website and enter your email address and password in the login form. 

That’s it! You will now be able to access your policy details and manage your account online. In case you want to know how to cancel Admiral Travel Insurance, contact Admiral customer service for assistance.

Admiral Travel Insurance is a reliable and affordable travel insurance provider. If you’re planning a trip and want the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re covered for unexpected events, consider purchasing travel insurance from Admiral Travel Insurance. With their wide range of coverage options and excellent customer service, you can travel with confidence, knowing that you’re protected no matter what happens. For more updates on travel insurance, visit Tripcolumn . 

What is the maximum trip length covered by Admiral Travel Insurance?

Admiral Travel Insurance provides coverage for trips up to 365 days in duration. This means that you can take extended trips without having to worry about your coverage expiration.

How do I cancel my Admiral Travel Insurance policy?

To cancel your Admiral travel insurance policy, follow the steps below: 

• Call the Admiral customer service number.
• Explain why you want to cancel your policy and share relevant details like your policy number and personal information.
• Answer any questions that the support team has and get your cancellation confirmation along with any refunds to be received.

What happens if I need medical assistance while travelling?

If you require medical assistance while travelling, you should contact the emergency assistance team provided by Admiral Travel Insurance. They are available 24/7 and can help you find medical assistance, provide advice on your situation, and arrange for any necessary medical transportation or repatriation. Do carry your policy documents with you at all times, as they will contain important contact information and details about your coverage.

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• Is travel insurance worth it?

You’ve spent months meticulously planning your vacation. You purchased your flights, booked your vacation rental , and spent hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars. Don’t be tempted to skip over travel insurance now: Things can still happen. All it takes is one mishap—a canceled flight, getting sick, or extreme weather—to derail your dream vacation.

This is why it’s crucial to plan for the unplanned. Travel insurance is a safety net, offering peace of mind and financial protection if the unexpected hits.

Why travel insurance is essential

Anything can happen, before and during a trip. Travel insurance can come to your rescue in several ways:

Recoup your travel costs

Travel insurance can reimburse you for expenses (even the non-refundable kind) if you need to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, natural disasters, or other covered reasons.

Help with unexpected medical expenses

Your regular health insurance may not apply if you were to get sick or injured while on your trip. Travel insurance can provide additional coverage.

Provide you with clothing and essentials

Every day, someone's luggage gets lost, stolen, or delayed. Travel insurance can reimburse you for essential items you need to purchase and the value of your lost belongings.

Common risks that travel insurance covers

Many things could derail your travel plans and budget. Including:

Natural disasters

Hurricanes, earthquakes, or other severe weather events can force trip cancellations or interruptions.

Health issues or accidents

Falling ill or getting injured while traveling can be both frightening and expensive. Travel insurance with medical coverage can help pay for emergency medical care and even medical evacuation if necessary.

Travel delays and cancellations

Flight cancellations, missed connections, or other travel disruptions can lead to additional expenses. Travel insurance can reimburse you for these unexpected costs and help you get back on track.

Emergency evacuations

In case of a natural disaster, political unrest, or medical emergency requiring evacuation, travel insurance can pay for your transportation to safety or to appropriate medical facilities.

How to choose the right travel insurance for you

Selecting the right travel insurance plan can feel overwhelming, especially with the variety of options available. For instance, you can buy travel insurance directly from Vacasa , Airbnb , Vrbo , and other places you book. Here are key factors to consider when searching for a plan that best suits you and your trip:

Trip duration and destination

If you're planning a short local getaway, a basic policy may suffice. However, for longer trips across the country or internationally, you might require more comprehensive coverage in case of trip cancellation or delays. Plus, certain destinations may have specific risks, such as higher medical costs or political instability, which could require more robust insurance.

Personal health and activities planned

If you (or anyone else in your travel group) have pre-existing medical conditions, ensure that your policy covers them, as many standard plans may exclude these conditions. Also, if you’re packing your itinerary with adventures like skiing, scuba diving, skydiving, and hiking, look for a policy that includes coverage for these activities, as they often require specialized insurance.

Seasonal weather

Oftentimes you might find the best travel deals during hurricane season. But, that also means increased risk. If you’re headed to a destination where extreme weather could hit, make sure you’re protected.

Whether a storm, sickness, or road closure, you’re protected with trip insurance.

How much is travel insurance?

Travel insurance typically costs between 4% to 12% of your total trip cost. However, the exact price can vary based on several factors:

• Trip cost: The more expensive your trip, the higher your premium.
• Number of travelers: Adding travelers to a policy can increase costs.
• Age of travelers: Older travelers generally pay more for travel insurance.
• Destination: Some countries may be more expensive to insure due to higher medical costs or increased risks.
• Length of trip: Longer trips typically cost more to insure.
• Coverage level: More comprehensive policies with higher coverage limits will cost more.

Trips don’t always go as smoothly as we’d like. Whether your child gets sick on vacation or you get bumped from your flight, travel insurance is the ideal safety net if your trip hits a snag. Insurance not only protects you against the unexpected, it can help you recoup your costs and cover the essentials so you can get back on track.

Ready to vacation safely?

Anything can happen when you’re traveling. From lost bags, to a sudden storm, to an accident. Protect your dream vacation with Vacasa’s Trip Insurance.

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• Help and Support

Travel insurance and baggage cover

Article contents.

Tegan Oldfield

15 August 2023 | Updated 18 April 2024 | 5 minute read

It can be stressful if your luggage is either lost or is delayed  at the airport.

Your travel operator should compensate you if the loss is their fault, whether that’s at the airport or on alternative transportation. 

But having an appropriate travel insurance policy will cover you if your luggage is lost or stolen at any point during your trip, not just when you’re travelling. 

Below, we’ve explained what you should do if your bags are lost or delayed and how to choose the right insurance policy to cover you.

What to do when your luggage is lost or delayed 

If you’re at the airport and discover that your luggage is lost or delayed, you need to follow these steps.

Go to your airline’s help desk – report your baggage as missing.

Complete a property irregularity report (PIR) – include your personal details, information about the flight you were on, a detailed description of the lost luggage and a list of the items in it.

Check the airline's progress – some airlines have an online tracking service, saving you the hassle of calling them whenever you want an update on your bags.

Resolving your claim

Ideally, your bags will be found and returned to you as soon as possible. In the meantime, the airline  must pay reasonable compensation to cover essentials like clothes and toiletries.

Remember that the travel operator’s idea of ‘reasonable’ might differ from yours, so check before buying expensive replacements. Not all airlines compensate with upfront cash; you may be expected to reclaim costs once you’re home.

If your luggage is lost – not just delayed – and the airline can’t locate it within 21 days, you’re entitled to claim total compensation from them.

They’ll ask you for a list of your bag’s contents and receipts to prove that you owned the items you’re claiming for. You won’t get the cost you paid for your items when they were new. Your airline will probably deduct an amount for wear and tear. 

Travel insurance for your luggage 

If your airline loses your bags, contact them first  for compensation and follow the process above. However, your travel insurer may also reimburse you if you have the right cover.

Before buying your travel insurance , work out a rough value estimate for your luggage, then use this figure to decide what level of cover you need.

We offer personal belongings  cover of up to £1,000, £2,000 and £2,500, depending on the level of cover you choose. Personal belongings just means all the items you take on holiday with you. 

You may have also packed some valuables in your luggage. Some policies will have a separate valuables limit .

How to claim for lost or delayed luggage

If you’re making a luggage claim that’s been lost or delayed, you must have submitted a property irregularity report (PIR) . 

For any other lost luggage, you need to:

• Report the loss or theft to the police – within 24 hours of discovering your missing items. 
• Contact your insurer – so they can assist you with your claim.

When contacting your insurer, all the following documents can help support your claim:

• receipts 
• photographs 
• airline tickets
• luggage tags 

Your insurance provider will decide how best to compensate you – it might include paying for the cost of replacements or, in the case of damaged items, paying for their repair.

Note that you won’t receive the total cost of any more than a year-old items, as wear and tear will be considered.

Insuring valuables while travelling

Most policies include a single-item limit. This is the maximum amount you’ll be compensated for a single item. 

Some policies also include a separate valuables limit which is the total limit for all the valuables items you need to claim for.

For example, if you lost a £1,000 laptop and a £300 camera, but your valuables limit is £400, the latter figure is the maximum amount you’ll be able to claim, which could leave you £900 out of pocket.

It might be best to arrange cover separately from your general travel insurance policy for valuable items like this. You can receive extra cover by:

• Buying a gadget insurance add-on – this will cover tech items like cameras, mobile phones or tablets while travelling. 
• Arranging ‘away from home’ cover on your home insurance – since you need cover for these items all year round, it could be beneficial to insure them with the rest of your home contents. Some providers will need you to upgrade your insurance for your valuables to be covered away from home.  

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