What a Travel Advisory Means for Your International Trip

Before you get wrapped up in the more exciting aspects of travel planning, take some time to think about safety. Your destination may not have the same safety, health, and security conditions as your home country. Understanding these differences and preparing for them is a fundamental part of safe travel.

Thankfully, there are plenty of resources to help you understand the safety threats at your destination and prepare for an emergency. The right knowledge and proper precautions are the key to spending less time worrying and more time enjoying your trip.

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Get to Know the Risks

Safety should be at the forefront of your mind any time you plan an international trip. Research potential threats to your safety and health before deciding on a destination.

Effective research methods include searching for recent headlines in the news to get a feel for current events and politics. You should also refer to the trove of travel health and safety resources from the U.S. Department of State and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Ask these questions about your destination to guide your research and identify potential risks to your health and safety:

  • Has the U.S. Department of State issued a level 3 or higher travel advisory?
  • Has the CDC issued a level 3 travel warning?
  • Has it recently appeared in the news for negative or concerning reasons?
  • Does it have a reputation for pickpockets, muggings, or petty theft?
  • Does it have a reputation for violent and/or organized crime?
  • Is there a strong presence of tourist companies, taxi services, etc., known to scam foreigners?
  • Is there a risk of natural disaster?
  • Is there a high chance of contracting food poisoning or water contamination?
  • Is there a prevalence of malaria or other infectious diseases?
  • What is the quality of local health care?
  • Does your domestic health care plan cover you abroad?
  • Will you have access to a doctor that speaks your native language?

Use the primary information you uncover about your destination’s safety to decide whether to continue planning this trip or to find a new destination.

If you do choose to travel against U.S. Department of State or CDC-issued travel advice, it’s all the more important that you understand the risks involved and the precautions you need to take.

Understanding U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories

One of the most valuable resources for planning a trip abroad is the U.S. Department of State. You can find practical, instructive information about all aspects of international travel on the website of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs (travel.state.gov). This is a go-to resource for any traveler, especially because of its travel advisories.

What Is a Travel Advisory?

U.S. Department of State travel advisories are regularly updated safety rankings assigned to every country in the world. Travel advisories also list other important travel information, such as entry and exit requirements, local laws and customs, health conditions, transportation, and more.

Travel Advisory Risk Factors

Advisories are divided into four levels based on the presence of the following threats to safety and security:

  • Crime – widespread and poorly regulated crime
  • Terrorism – terrorist attacks targeting groups or civilians
  • Civil Unrest – potentially violent or otherwise disruptive instability
  • Health – disease outbreaks and crises disrupting a country’s medical infrastructure
  • Natural Disaster – a dangerous natural disaster or its aftermath
  • Time-Limited Events – short-term events that may impede travel
  • Kidnapping and/or Hostage-Taking – by criminals or terrorists
  • Other – less common, but equally dangerous safety and security risks

Individual advisories may further list specific risk factors, which can include threats such as:

  • Arbitrary enforcement of laws
  • Armed conflict
  • COVID-19, Ebola, or other specific viruses
  • Embassy’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens
  • Limited healthcare ability
  • Maritime crime
  • Minefields
  • Piracy
  • Political violence
  • Serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. nationals

Travel Advisory Levels

The U.S. Department of State assigns a number (1-4) to every country in the world to define the level of precaution necessary when traveling to the destination. Here is a breakdown of each advisory level and what it means for your trip:

    • Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions

      A level 1 advisory is the lowest travel advisory level a country can have. Level 1 travel advisory countries are generally safe for travelers. Because there is always some risk involved with international travel, you should still exercise precautions when navigating these countries.

    • Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution

      These countries present heightened safety and security risks but are generally safe to visit if you take the recommended precautions. Common risk indicators for level 2 advisory countries often include crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping, though a level 2 advisory may be the result of any of the risk factors noted above.

      IMPORTANT! Travel advisories are not only issued on a country-wide level. A country may have an overall travel advisory of level 2, but with elevated advisory levels for certain high-risk parts of the country.

      For example, Brazil and Mexico are often under a level 2 “exercise increased caution” advisory. However, certain cities or regions within these countries are labeled within their full travel advisories as “do not travel” or “reconsider travel.”

      That’s why it’s vital that you read the entire travel advisory. Learn how to view and monitor travel advisories below.

    • Level 3 – Reconsider Travel

      Countries under a level 3 travel advisory present a serious risk to the safety and security of international travelers. The U.S. Department of State recommends that you avoid traveling to these countries. Common risk factors for countries under a level 3 travel advisory often include civil unrest, terrorism, crime, kidnapping, armed conflict, and disease outbreaks.

  • Level 4 – Do Not Travel

    These countries present life-threatening risks to travelers. Do not travel to any country under a level 4 travel advisory. The U.S. government cannot guarantee aid for travelers who experience an emergency in these countries. Any travelers already in a level 4 country at the time the travel advisory is announced should leave as soon as it is safe to do so.


    How To View U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories

    Conditions in each country may change drastically at a moment's notice, so travelers should monitor their destination's advisory level. 

    Follow these steps to view the current advisory for your destination. 

    • Visit travel.state.gov.
    • Click “International Travel” in the navy-colored navigation bar toward the top of the page.
    • Click “Learn About Your Destination” in the ”Country Information” box.
    • Type the name of your destination country into the search bar.
    • Hit “Enter” or click the search icon.
    • You will see your destination country’s travel advisory at the top of the page.
    • Click the “Read More” link to view the entire travel advisory.
    • Read the travel advisory thoroughly, paying special attention to the information for any cities or regions you plan to visit.

Understanding CDC Travel Health Notices

Another indispensable resource to help you plan for international travel is the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. Like the U.S. Department of State, the CDC also issues travel notices.

What Is a Travel Health Notice?

A travel health notice is a notice issued by the CDC that measures health threats worldwide and categorizes countries based on severity.

IMPORTANT! CDC-issued travel health notices exist separately from U.S. Department of State-issued travel advisories and may or may not be issued in tandem.


Travel Health Notice Risk Factors

The CDC's original travel health notices are divided into three levels based on the presence of the following issues that impact travelers’ health:

  • Disease outbreaks
  • Special events or gatherings
  • Natural disasters


Travel Health Notice Levels

Here is a breakdown of the three original CDC notice levels:

  • Watch Level 1 – Practice Usual Precautions

    This is the CDC’s lowest travel notice. People visiting countries with a level 1 travel notice should follow the usually recommended travel precautions listed in the country’s "Traveler View" page. Precautions include being up to date on all necessary vaccines, practicing appropriate mosquito avoidance, and more.

  • Alert Level 2 – Practice Enhanced Precautions

    These countries pose a greater threat to travelers’ health due to disease outbreaks and crises. People planning to visit these countries should take extra measures to protect themselves against the health threat and prevent further transmission of any diseases. Travelers can find a full list of recommended precautions on the country’s “Traveler View” page.

    The presence of life-threatening infectious diseases like Ebola, Polio, and Rubella may trigger a level 2 health notice from the CDC.

  • Warning Level 3 – Avoid All Nonessential Travel

    Destinations with this travel notice present the most severe cases of disease outbreak and pose a significant threat to travelers’ health. In these cases, the CDC’s recommended precautions are unlikely to protect you against the identified risk. You are advised to avoid visiting these countries.     

Should You Reconsider Travel to Countries with a Travel Advisory?

Travel advisories aren’t necessarily cause for alarm. Just because a safety threat is present in a country doesn’t mean it is likely to affect your trip. It just means that you should follow all recommended precautions and stay away from any specific areas listed within the travel advisory as “reconsider travel” or “do not travel.”

You should reconsider your trip if you intend on visiting a high-risk destination. These destinations present the most immediate risk to your safety, health, and security, and should be avoided.

What counts as a high-risk destination?

  • Countries or areas under a level 3 or higher travel advisory from the U.S. Department of State
  • Countries under a level 3 travel warning from the CDC

All travelers should properly research their destinations and take the safety precautions recommended by the U.S. Department of State and CDC.

How Travel Advisories Affect Your Travel Insurance Coverage

Not only is monitoring your destination’s travel advisories a useful way to stay updated on the risks around you, but advisories may also directly affect your travel insurance coverage.

Depending on your travel insurance policy, some of your benefits may be affected by health notices or advisories being issued for your destination. Other benefits may not apply if your destination has been under a certain level advisory prior to your arrival.

PRO TIP: Review the full Description of Coverage for your plan to determine how your coverage works depending on the U.S. Department of State-issued travel advisory or a CDC-issued travel health notices for your destination. Pay special attention to your benefit limits and their conditions and exclusions. Also review the policy’s general exclusions carefully. If you have any questions about your coverage, contact your insurance provider directly.

 

How Travel Health Notices and Advisories Affect Atlas Travel Medical Insurance from WorldTrips

Let’s take a close look at the Atlas Travel health insurance policy from WorldTrips to better understand how a country’s safety conditions can affect travel health coverage:

  • Treatment of Disease

    As noted in the Atlas Travel Description of Coverage, a warning/alert level 3 issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for a specific destination, or global or worldwide warning/alert level 3 issued by the CDC, can affect your coverage for treatment of disease. Here’s how:

    Imagine you were to contract a disease as a result of an outbreak in a location currently under a CDC-issued level 3 travel warning. Your insurance would not cover you for treatment if the CDC-issued warning had been in effect within the 60-day period prior to your arrival in that location.

    If the CDC were to issue a level 3 warning for your location after your arrival, you would be covered for disease-related expenses for up to 10 days following the level 3 warning issue date, given that your expenses did not arise directly or indirectly from another policy exclusion.

    If you were to remain in the warned-against location for more than 10 days following the date the CDC issued the level 3 warning, you would not be eligible for expenses related to diseases contracted in the warned-against location. You would still be covered for other eligible expenses incurred in the warned-against location.

    Additionally, if you were to depart the warned-against location and travel to a new location where there had not been a CDC-issued level 3 travel warning within the previous 60 days, you would be eligible for expenses related to a disease contracted in the new location.

  • Political Evacuation

    As noted in the Atlas Travel Description of Coverage, a level 3 or higher travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State can affect your Political Evacuation benefit. Here’s how:

    Say you were traveling abroad when safety conditions in your destination abruptly changed, causing the U.S. Department of State to issue a level 3 or higher travel advisory for your current location.

    Your Political Evacuation benefit would cover the cost of transporting you to the nearest country of safety OR to your home country (as determined by WorldTrips), as long as the advisory had not been in effect for your location within the 60-day period prior to your arrival.

    You must contact WorldTrips within 10 days of the advisory announcement to be eligible for this benefit.

  • Terrorism
    As noted in the Atlas Travel Description of Coverage, a level 3 or higher travel advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State can affect your Terrorism benefit. Here’s how:

    Imagine you were traveling abroad when a terrorist incident suddenly occurred in your destination, leaving you with terrorism-related injuries or illness. Your Terrorism benefit would help cover your medical expenses as long as there had not been a U.S. Department of State-issued level 3 or higher travel advisory for your location in the 60 days prior to your arrival.

    Eligible terrorism-related medical expenses would be covered for up to 10 days following the date the advisory was issued, given that your expenses did not arise directly or indirectly from another policy exclusion.

IMPORTANT! These benefits and exclusions apply if the location where you incur the expenses is under a level 3 or higher advisory, even if the rest of the country is under a level 1 or level 2 travel advisory.

 

How Travel Advisories Affect Atlas Journey Travel Insurance from WorldTrips 

Level 4 travel advisory being issued for your destination by the U.S. Department of State may affect your Atlas Journey Elevate travel insurance coverage. Learn more below. 

(Note that neither travel health notices nor travel advisories are covered perils for the Atlas Journey Explore or Atlas Journey Escape plans.) 

  • Trip Cancellation
     
    As noted in the Atlas Journey Elevate policy documents, a level 4 travel advisory issued for your destination by the U.S. Department of State can affect your trip cancellation coverage. Here's how:
     
    You purchase an Atlas Journey Elevate policy. Two weeks before your trip begins, the U.S. Department of State issues a level 4 travel advisory for your destination. 

    Because this is listed as a covered reason for cancellation under your Trip Cancellation benefit, you will be covered for any prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses if you decide to cancel your trip. 

    However, if you were to purchase a policy after the U.S. Department of State had issued a level 4 travel advisory for your location, you would not be covered for your prepaid trip expenses if you decided to cancel your trip due to the travel advisory. 

  • Trip Interruption 

    As noted in the Atlas Journey Elevate policy documents, a level 4 travel advisory issued for your destination by the U.S. Department of State can affect your trip interruption coverage. Here's how: 

    Imagine you purchase an Atlas Journey Elevate policy and then depart for your trip. While on your trip, a terrorist incident occurs and the U.S. Department of State issues a level 4 travel advisory for your destination. You decide to end your trip early and return home. 

    This is a covered reason for ending your trip early, so your Trip Interruption benefit will provide coverage for your unused trip expenses for the remainder of your trip, as well as reimbursement for eligible transportation expenses. 
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Consider a Trip Cancellation for Any Reason Benefit

The Atlas Journey travel insurance plan, for U.S. citizens and residents, offer an optional Trip Cancellation for Any Reason (CFAR) benefit upgrade that reimburses you for 50% or 75% of your trip cost - whichever you choose upon purchase - if you cancel your trip for any reason.

You may wish to add this upgrade to your plan if you want the option to cancel your trip for any reason, including health notices or travel advisories being issued for your destination by the CDC or the U.S. Department of State. 

Note that this upgrade is only available if you purchase your plan within 21 days of the date you made your first payment toward your trip. You must cancel your trip at least two days prior to your departure.

Monitor Travel Warnings and Alerts

Stay abreast of the political, security, and weather conditions in your destination by monitoring key travel resources from the U.S. Department of State and the CDC. Be prepared to react in case security conditions suddenly change. 

 

Enroll in STEP

The State Department's free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to register their trip with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. 

Some benefits of enrolling in STEP: 

  • You will receive important information about local safety conditions in your destination country
  • The U.S. embassy will be able to contact you in case of a natural disaster, political or civil unrest, or other emergencies
  • Family and friends can get in touch with you in case of an emergency
PRO TIP! Download the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler app to get quick, convenient access to all the latest travel advisory updates, alerts, and warnings, as well as access to maps and the locations of U.S. embassies. Check out the iOS App or the Android App.

 

Consider Travel Health Insurance or Travel Insurance 

Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage for your time abroad. Some domestic healthcare policies may not cover medical expenses incurred abroad, while others may offer limited international coverage. 

Travel health insurance can help cover the cost of an unexpected injury or illness abroad, as well as providing important travel-related benefits. It is available to citizens and residents of most countries who are traveling abroad. 

Travel insurance, also known as trip cancellation insurance, can provide some medical coverage as well as reimbursement for prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs when canceling a trip for a covered reason. It is available to U.S. citizens and residents traveling domestically and/or abroad. 

You can learn more about the difference between travel medical insurance and travel insurance here - or see highlights of each plan type from WorldTrips below. 

 

Atlas Travel Medical Insurance - Single-Trip Travel Medical Insurance for Residents of Most Countries Who Are Traveling Abroad

Here are several ways Atlas Travel medical insurance from WorldTrips can help you in the event of an emergency:

  • Political Evacuation – You may be covered for the cost of transportation to the nearest country of safety OR to your home country if the U.S. Department of State issues a level 3 or higher travel advisory for your location after your arrival.
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation – In situations where your life or limb depend on your ability to get adequate medical care quickly, this benefit can cover the cost of transporting you by air or ground to the nearest adequate health facility.
  • Terrorism Coverage – Those insured by Atlas Travel have coverage for treatment of an injury or illness resulting from a covered act of terrorism.

  • Crisis Response – Policyholders may have coverage in eligible situations for the cost of ransom, crisis response fees, and/or personal belongings surrendered in an express kidnapping.

Learn more about Atlas Travel insurance or see how much your plan would cost.

 

Atlas Journey Travel Insurance - Single-Trip Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents Who Are Traveling Domestically or Abroad 

Here are several ways Atlas Journey travel insurance from WorldTrips can help you in the event of an emergency: 

  • Trip Cancellation - Atlas Journey will reimburse you for your prepaid and nonrefundable trip expenses if you cancel your trip due to a covered reason, such as sickness or injury that prevents you from traveling, bad weather that causes your airline to cancel your trip, and more. The Atlas Journey Elevate plan also includes the U.S. Department of State issuing a level 4 travel advisory for your destination after you've purchased your policy as a covered reason for trip cancellation. 

  • Trip Cancellation for Any Reason (Optional Upgrade Available Upon Purchase) - If you add this optional CFAR upgrade to your Atlas Journey plan, you will be reimbursed for 50% or 75% of your trip cost - whichever you choose upon purchase - for a trip that you cancel for any reason. Note that this upgrade is only available if you purchase your Atlas Journey plan within 21 days of the date you made your first payment toward your trip. You must cancel your trip at least tow days prior to your departure to use this benefit upgrade. 

  • Trip Interruption - If you decide to end your trip early for a covered reason, you could be reimbursed for your unused expenses and eligible transportation expenses. Note that Atlas Journey Elevate is the only Atlas Journey plan that includes a level 4 travel advisory being issued for your destination by the U.S. Department of State as a covered reason to use the Trip Interruption benefit. 

  • Emergency Accident and Sickness Medical Expenses - In the event you experience a medical emergency while traveling, you could be covered for necessary treatment with this benefit. 

  • Medical Evacuation & Repatriation of Remains - If adequate medical treatment cannot be provided, this benefit can provide coverage for transportation to a nearby hospital with such treatment available. If you or your travel companion suddenly passes away during your trip, you may also have coverage for transportation home of the deceased. 

Learn more about Atlas Journey Insurance or see how much your plan would cost.

PRO TIP! Review the policy documents for any policy you’re considering, paying special attention to its benefit limits, conditions, and exclusions. Make sure you know how your coverage is impacted - if at all - by the issuing of a travel health notice or advisory.

 

For Atlas Journey plans, note that coverage can vary by state of residence. You can see policy documents for your Atlas Journey plan and state of residence here.

 

Get Vaccinated

Travel to your destination may expose you to diseases you aren’t exposed to at home, such as yellow fever or typhoid. You may not have had the vaccines you need to protect yourself. Consult your destination’s “Traveler View” page on the CDC website to find out which vaccines medical experts recommend. Then, make an appointment with a doctor to get vaccinated.

Your regular doctor may not carry the vaccines you need, so call ahead to confirm they will be able to administer them. If not, you’ll need to make an appointment with a travel medicine specialist. If you are visiting a country that requires a yellow fever vaccination, such as Ghana or Brazil, you will need to visit an authorized yellow fever vaccine clinic.

Keep in mind that most vaccines must be administered about a month ahead of your arrival date. You should also use this opportunity to make sure you are up to date on all your routine vaccines.

 

Be Proactive About Bug Bite Prevention

Bug bites are another common cause of disease transmission. Mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and even some flies can spread diseases like malaria, yellow fever, Lyme, Zika, and dengue. Avoid bug bites as much as you can to reduce your chances of contracting a disease.

Here are some tips for preventing bug bites:

  • Avoid exposing too much skin
  • Use EPA-registered insect repellents on areas that are exposed
  • Treat your clothes and shoes with an insecticide
  • Choose accommodations with air conditioning or screened windows
  • If exposed to the outside, sleep under a mosquito net

 

Know How to Get Medical Care While Traveling

Prepare yourself for a medical emergency before you embark on your adventure abroad. Research local doctors and hospitals, especially ones that speak your native language. Keep this information in a wallet-sized card you can easily carry with you during your trip.

On that card, you may also want to include your essential health information, such as your blood type, chronic conditions, serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take. Keep this card next to your travel health insurance ID card.

 

Copy Your Travel Documents

Make copies of your travel documents so you’re prepared in case you become separated from them. Copy the ID page of your passport and visa as well as your travel health insurance card, your prescriptions, and your credit cards. Then, store one set of copies in your luggage and give another to someone you trust at home.

Upon arriving at your destination, it’s also wise to photocopy the page of your passport with the country’s entry stamp. This will come in handy in case you lose your passport and need to prove your presence in the country.

 

Use the CDC “Healthy Travel Packing List”

The CDC provides a customized packing list for each country with everything you need to stay healthy abroad. These “Healthy Travel Packing Lists” include prescription medicines, medical supplies, over-the-counter medicines, and other preventative supplies that may help protect you against a country’s health threats.

They also identify which health documents to take with you in case you require medical care abroad. These documents include your travel health insurance ID card, proof of vaccinations, copies of prescriptions, contact cards, and travel documents.

You can find the packing list for your destination on its "Traveler View" page.

 

Watch What You Eat and Drink

Unclean food and contaminated water can cause diarrhea, food poisoning, and other diseases. Reduce the risk of these uncomfortable travel setbacks by sticking to safe foods and drinking bottled water.

Generally safe to eat:

  • hot prepared dishes
  • pasteurized dairy products
  • thoroughly washed fruit and vegetables

Stay away from:

  • raw or undercooked meats
  • unpasteurized dairy
  • bushmeat (meat from wild animals)

Bushmeat has proven to increase the transmission of zoonotic diseases like Ebola, HIV, and Coronavirus.

 

Be Smart About Transportation

Use your common sense when navigating your destination. Old vehicles, especially without seatbelts, are more likely to cause injury in case of an accident. Always arrange payment ahead of time when hiring a taxi to prevent being scammed.

When walking, stay in safe areas and try to stick to the sidewalk. Enjoy the new and unfamiliar environment around you but stay alert. Burying your nose in a map or keeping your eyes glued to your smartphone may make you look like an easy target for pickpockets, muggers, and scammers.

 

Take Cues from the Locals

Research the culture of the places you’ll be traveling via blogs and websites like Wikitravel, Commisceo Global, and Trip Advisor. Learn about the customs so you’ll be less likely to offend the local people by accident.

When it comes to your safety, having a solid knowledge of cultural aspects—like how to dress—can help you to better blend in and be less likely to become a target of pickpockets or muggers.

 

PRO TIP! Use our list of the best travel websites to help you prepare for your trip. This list includes the best sites and resources to help you plan for your destination, accommodations, transportation, budget, safety, and more.

 

Don’t Flaunt Your Wealth

Avoid traveling with items of great value. Expensive jewelry and gadgets may make you stand out, especially in a country less wealthy than your own. Signs of wealth might make you look like a worthy target to people aiming to take advantage of vulnerable travelers.

 

Keep Valuables Concealed

Money belts may not be fashionable, but they are indispensable for keeping your valuables safe. Wallets and purses are easily stolen by petty thieves, putting your money, passport, and cell phone at risk. Keep these items safe and secure by storing them in a money belt that you wear close to your body.

 

Let People Know Where You’ll Be

Enlist your loved ones at home in your safety efforts by sharing your itinerary and means of contact. If you haven’t planned an itinerary, be sure to check in with someone as soon as you arrive at a new place. Let them know how they can contact you if necessary.

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WorldTrips is a service company and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies.

WorldTrips’ Atlas Travel Series and StudentSecure international travel medical insurance products are underwritten by Lloyd's. WorldTrips has authority to enter into contracts of insurance on behalf of the Lloyd's underwriting members of Lloyd's Syndicate 4141, which is managed by HCC Underwriting Agency, Ltd.

WorldTrips' Atlas Journey, Atlas Cruiser, and Atlas On-The-Go trip protection insurance products are underwritten by Tokio Marine HCC's U.S. Specialty Insurance Company (USSIC). USSIC is a Texas-domiciled insurance company operating on an admitted basis throughout the United States. Coverage is available to U.S. residents of the U.S. states and District of Columbia only. This plan provides insurance coverage that only applies during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home, and automobile insurance policies. Coverage may not be available in all states.

In the State of California, operating as WorldTrips Insurance Services. California Non-Resident Producer License Number: 0G39705

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The coverage may be valuable in countries where there is a chance of an occurrence but no general reason to expect one. Learn more about terrorism coverage here. 7. Natural Disaster - Replacement Accommodations What happens if there's an earthquake, flood, hurricane, tsunami, or other natural disaster while you're traveling abroad? If you cannot stay in your hotel or other paid accommodations due to an evacuation from a disaster, you may qualify for up to $250 a day in coverage for up to five days so you can secure replacement accommodations. With an Atlas Premium policy, this per-day benefit increases up to $500 for up to 5 days. 8. Personal Liability No one plans to be held liable for causing an injury or accidental damage, but there's always that risk as you travel abroad. With an Atlas Travel plan, you may be eligible to receive up to $25,000 for personal liability coverage if you become legally liable for paying damages resulting from accidental: Bodily injury, including death, illness, and disease of a third person Loss of or damage to a third person's tangible and material property Loss of or damage to a related third person's tangible and material property You'll also have the option to increase your coverage to $100,000 during the purchase process. And if you upgrade to an Atlas Premium policy - our elite Atlas Travel plan - your Personal Liability coverage will have a built-in maximum of $100,000. 9. Sports and Activities Atlas Travel includes coverage for eligible injuries and illnesses that could occur while participating in many popular vacation sports, such as skiing and snowboarding (recreational downhill and/or cross country), snorkeling, water skiing, and more. Certain extreme sports are excluded from coverage. To see the entire list of exclusions, visit the "Sports and Activities" page of Atlas Travel's Description of Coverage. 10. Emergency Dental You don't want to worry about a toothache wreaking havoc on your travels. Atlas Travel can cover up to $300 for emergency dental work necessary to resolve pain or restore or replace teeth that are lost or damaged in a covered accident. 11. Repatriation of Remains or Local Burial or Cremation We hope you will have a safe and wonderful trip abroad, but travel medical insurance often includes coverage in case the worst were to happen and you were to pass away from a covered illness or injury during your trip. Atlas Travel's Repatriation of Remains benefit can cover the air or ground costs of transporting your remains to the airport nearest your home to help ease the financial burden on your family. Or your beneficiary may opt for you to be buried or cremated in the country of death, in which case they would receive up to $5,000 to cover this cost. Consider Travel Medical Insurance to Help You Travel Fearlessly Travel medical insurance like WorldTrips' Atlas Travel offers a range of coverages to help you travel with confidence and prepare for the various situations that could arise during a trip abroad. When you purchase an Atlas Travel plan, you'll also have access to travel assistance services available in several languages. Some highlights include: Provider, embassy, and legal referrals Translations and interpretations Help obtaining replacements for lost travel documents All services are available 365 days a year, and emergency services are accessible 24/7. See all available travel assistance services here. KHE2FFFYH6SP-971744701-1266 WorldTrips international travel medical insurance products are underwritten by Lloyd's. WorldTrips is a service company and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies. WorldTrips has authority to enter into contracts of insurance on behalf of the Lloyd's underwriting members of Lloyd's Syndicate 4141, which is managed by HCC Underwriting Agency, Ltd.
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Traveling to Japan for the First Time | Japan
Few destinations around the world draw the kind of inspiration and amazement Japan does. With a seemingly endless supply of cultural traditions, neon lights, and sights to experience, the Land of the Rising Sun remains one of the most coveted travel destinations. Traveling to Japan for the first time will demand a good deal of research and planning to understand and embrace all it has to offer. Read on to learn about the country’s history and cultural traditions that make it the nation it is today, as well as practical information for planning your first trip to this wondrous destination. Overview of Japanese Culture Japanese culture is vastly different from most Western cultures, so you’ll likely experience some degree of a culture shock when you visit Japan for the first time. Here are some helpful insights to mitigate the effects of culture shock you feel while visiting Japan. How to Perform a Basic Greeting Greetings are important in Japanese culture. Bowing is the main greeting in Japan. Perform a basic bow by bending from the waist with your back and neck straight and your eyes looking down. Men: Keep your hands at your sides. Women: Clasp your hands at your sides. Most people will recognize that you are a foreigner and you may not know the proper way to bow. As a tourist in Japan for the first time, a nod of the head is sufficient. Business travelers to Japan, however, should practice their bowing technique. What to Expect Inside a Japanese Home Being invited to a Japanese home is an honor. The Japanese people make a clear distinction between inside and outside, so you should remove your shoes at the entrance area (called the genkan) and replace them with slippers. These rules also apply to most traditional ryokan (Japanese-style inns) and sections of temples, castles, or other historic buildings. Bare feet are not acceptable. You must wear socks or a pair of indoor slippers. NOTE: You may be provided with a separate pair of slippers to use when you go to the bathroom inside someone's home. Dining Etiquette in Japan Most restaurants in Japan have low tables and cushions on a tatami floor (and/or Western-style chairs and tables). Just as you remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, you are expected to remove your shoes before stepping onto a tatami. You’ll be provided with a wet towel to clean your hands at the beginning of your meal. Bring small bowls close to your mouth when eating but keep larger dishes on the table. Just as you wouldn’t serve yourself with your own fork, use the opposite end of your chopsticks or designated serving chopsticks to choose food from a shared dish. At the end of your meal, replace the lids on dishes and put your chopsticks back on the chopstick rest or in their paper holder. You'll bring your bill up to the cashier to pay at most restaurants in Japan, and you'll most likely need to pay cash. A Quick Lesson in Using Chopsticks Chopsticks alone can make any seasoned traveler wary of meals. But you should be fine if you follow these tips: Hold the upper chopstick like a pencil, leaving about one-third of the chopstick to the right of your fingers. Place the second chopstick against your ring finger and hold it with your thumb. Make sure it points in the same direction as the first chopstick. Use your thumb, index finger, and middle finger to move the upper chopstick. Keep these no-no's in mind: Do not stick chopsticks into your food or spear your food with them. Do not point with your chopsticks. Do not play with your chopsticks. What to Expect from Bathrooms in Japan We’ve all seen a T.V. show or movie where an unexpecting guest is tormented by the novelties of a Japanese toilet. Many Western toilets in Japan have unique features such as a heated seat or an automatic lid opener, but they’re far less complicated to understand than pop culture makes them out to be. You’ll find two types of toilets when traveling in Japan: Japanese style and Western-style. Public bathrooms are usually equipped with both. Keep in mind that toilet paper is not always provided in public bathrooms. Both Western and Japanese style toilets usually have two flush modes: "small" (小) and "large" (大), differing in the amount of water used. Look for these symbols to avoid ending up like your favorite sitcom character. If you're a Japan toilet enthusiast, visit the Toto Museum in Kitakyushu. The museum is dedicated to the history of toilets! Proper Etiquette at Japanese Temples and Shrines As a first-time visitor to Japan, you may have several temples and shrines on your itinerary. It's important to behave properly when visiting these ancient relics. Temples and shrines in Japan are places for reflection, meditation, and prayer, so be sure to behave in a calm and respectful manner. Note that you should not visit a shrine if you are sick or in mourning. When you arrive at a temple in Japan, show your respect by saying a short prayer in front of the sacred object and by throwing a coin into the offering box. You may be asked to take off your shoes when entering temple buildings, so remember to wear clean socks. Most shrines in Japan have a purification fountain near the entrance. Fill one of the ladles provided and rinse both your hands. Do not transfer any of the water directly from the fountain to your person, and do not return any water in the ladle back into the fountain. To make an offering at a shrine, place a coin in the offering box, bow twice, clap your hands twice, bow again, and pray. Pictures are normally allowed on the grounds of temples and shrines but forbidden inside the buildings. Be respectful of signs. How To Travel to Japan Without Knowing Japanese Traveling to any country without knowing the language is difficult. Learning some commonly-used phrase before you travel to Japan will make navigating this country a little bit easier. Here are some common Japanese phrases you may use or hear on your first trip to Japan: Good morning – Ohayou gozaimasu (formal); Ohyayou (informal) Hello – Konnichiwa Good evening – Konbanwa Good night – Oyasuminasai Thank you – Arigatou gozaimasu (formal); Arigatou (informal) My name is [name] – Watashi no namae wa [name] desu This is my [wife/husband/child(ren)/parents/relative/friend/boyfriend/girlfriend] – Watashi no [tsuma/otto/kodomo/oya/shinseki/tomodachi/kareshi/kanojyo] desu Taxi – takushi I want to go to [location] – [location] e ikitai desu Where is [location] – [location] wa doko desuka Up – Ue Down – Shita Right – Migi Left – Hidari May I have [item] – [item] wo kudasai How much is it? – ikura desuka Do you have Wi-Fi? – Wi-Fi arimasuka I don’t feel well – Guai ga warui desu Download the introductory Japanese course for English speakers on Duolingo a few weeks before your trip to help you learn phonetic pronunciations and gain a more robust vocabulary. PRO TIP: Any attempt to communicate in Japanese will go a long way with the Japanese people. The Japanese are known for omotenashi, which translates into “selfless hospitality.” Japanese Currency and Exchange Rates Japan is considered a cash-based society even though most stores, restaurants, and hotels in major cities accept major credit cards. It is prudent to always carry a few thousand Japanese yen (abbreviated JPY or JP¥) just in case. You can buy Japanese currency at physical or digital exchanges. Banks, post offices, and some hotels in Japan handle currency exchanges. Avoid airport-based exchanges – rates tend to be worse there than elsewhere. You can also make ATM withdrawals with foreign cards at over 10,000 7-Eleven convenience stores across the country. Travelex offers a search feature to find the nearest store where you can buy Japanese currency. It also offers the option of purchasing yen online. *Current Exchange Rate in 2024: $1 USD = about ¥161.78 JPY €1 EUR = about ¥175.12 JPY *As of publish date. Japan’s currency tends to fluctuate a bit, but you can use this currency converter to see how much you’re spending. How Much Does It Cost To Go to Japan for a Week? A one-week trip to Japan will allow you to explore the country without racking up crazy expenses. Assuming you keep your spending low, this is what your week in Japan could look like: Roundtrip international air ticket (Narita Airport) = $750 USD Shuttle bus (Narita Airport to Tokyo Station) = $9 USD Hostel in Tokyo: $50 USD/night x 3 days = $150 USD Hostel in Kyoto: $25 USD/night x 2 days = $50 USD Hostel in Osaka: $25 USD/night x 2 days = $50 USD Japan Railway Pass = $270 USD Food budget: $30 USD/day x 7 days = $210 Drinks and other expenditures (souvenirs, experiences, etc.): $25 USD/day x 7 days = $175 Travel medical insurance = $19.36 USD* This example of a 7-night, 8-day trip to Japan adds up to a little under $1,700 USD. Not too bad for such an exciting destination! PRO TIP: Air China consistently offers the best fares for visiting Japan on a whim. Roundtrip flights from the city of Los Angeles can be as little as $600 USD. *This travel medical insurance cost example is for a 35-year-old traveling to Japan for 8 days in August 2024 with a $0 deductible and a $2 million maximum limit under the Atlas Travel policy from WorldTrips. The per-day cost for a trip to Japan depends on your age and the deductible and overall maximum limit you choose. Japan Visa Requirements and Travel Vaccinations An important part of planning your first trip to Japan is ensuring you have the proper documentation to enter the country. U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Japan. A valid passport and onward/return tickets will allow you entry into the country for stays of up to 90 days. NOT A U.S. CITIZEN? See our Japan visa page to determine whether or not you need a visa to travel to Japan. Plus, see visa requirements! There are currency restrictions when traveling in Japan. Amounts equivalent or superior to ¥1 million JPY or above (roughly $6,181 USD in August 2024) are subject to declaration upon arrival and/or departure. Please note the visa exemption arrangement does not apply to: News and media-related activities Citizens attending depositions taken by U.S. Consul S. federal government employees on official business or transit to/from official mission Japan does not require any vaccinations for U.S. citizens to enter the country. Malaria has been eradicated from the tropical areas of the country since 1961. The Best Time of Year To Visit Japan The islands that comprise Japan witness a variety of climates. The best time to visit Japan will be decided by what you wish to do and see while in the country. As a first-time traveler to Japan, spring may be the best time to visit. The popular destinations of Tokyo and Hiroshima enjoy temperate climates, so fall and spring are pleasant times to visit. Cherry blossom season is in April and is a must-see event on many first-time traveler’s bucket lists. Accommodations may be more expensive, but cherry blossom season gives visitors to Japan an authentic glimpse into Japanese tradition and culture. May-August is the best time to visit Japan if you’re traveling on a budget. Temperatures rise in the summer, but hotel prices drop. The natural beauty of the many forests and gardens truly comes to life in the summer months. Be wary of typhoon season, however, if you plan to visit Okinawa during the summer. The island of Hokkaido is a great destination for winter travelers to Japan. The mountains of Hokkaido enjoy robust amounts of snowfall, attracting local and foreign tourists alike to its mountain resorts and traditional onsen (Japanese hot springs). Choosing Where To Travel in Japan Japan is divided into four main islands: Hokkaido Honshu (further divided into Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kinki/Kansai, and Chugoku) Shikoku Kyushu (which includes Okinawa) Hokkaido Hokkaido is the second-largest and northernmost of Japan’s four main islands. It is popular for its winter temperatures and a plethora of snow resorts. The largest city on the island of Hokkaido is Sapporo. Honshu The largest island in Japan, Honshu is home to five regions: Tohoku – Located in the northern area of Honshu, Tohoku is known for its beautiful countryside, mountains, lakes, and onsen (hot springs). Tohoku was hit by the 2011 earthquake, tsunami, and subsequent Fukushima nuclear accident, but the area has mostly recovered. Sendai is the largest city in the Tohoku region. Kanto – Translated literally to “east of the border,” Kanto is perhaps most famous for being home to the cities of Tokyo and Yokohama. Chubu – Chubu is best known as the home of Mt. Fuji. This Japanese region borders the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan and houses popular destinations like Nagoya and Niigata. Kansai – The political and cultural center of Japan for centuries, the Kansai region includes the major cities and tourist destinations of Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Kobe. Chugoku – Chugoku makes up the western part of Honshu and is commonly subdivided into the urban/industrial area of Sanyo and the rural area of Sanin. You’ll find Hiroshima and Miyajima in the Chugoku region. Shikoku Shikoku, which translates to “four countries,” is Japan’s fourth-largest island. It is divided into four prefectures: Ehime, Kagawa, Kōchi, and Tokushima. Unlike the other three main islands of Japan, Shikoku has no volcanoes. Kyushu Kyushu is Japan’s third-largest island. Kyushu was an early center of Japanese civilization and offers visitors natural beauty and many historical treasures. Kyushu is home to several onsen, the city of Nagasaki, and the islands of Okinawa. How To Get to Japan Japan has four major international airports: Narita Airport – Located in Tokyo Haneda Airport – Located in Tokyo Kansai Airport – Located in Osaka Central Japan Airport – Located in Nagoya Direct flights are available to Tokyo from major west coast American cities like Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Honolulu. Flights with one stop (often in Hong Kong, China) also connect the U.S. with important Japanese cities, such as Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagoya, and Sapporo. Many European and Asian destinations also offer direct flights to Japan. For example, travelers from the U.K. can get a direct flight on British Airways from London Heathrow to Narita Airport in Tokyo. Where To Stay in Japan Luxury, budget, and tradition-seeking travelers alike can find accommodation in Japan that meets their needs. Finding the right place to stay will depend on your wishes and expectations. Those looking for immersive experiences should look at Airbnb lodgings and ryokan (traditional Japanese guesthouses). If comfort is most important, find solace at a luxury hotel. And for budget travelers, there are tons of hostels available. Take a peek at some of the top-ranked accommodations throughout Japan: Top Accommodations in Tokyo: Luxury – Hotel Ryumeikan Ochanomizu Honten This hotel has a 5-star rating based on 114 reviews on TripAdvisor. Founded in 1899, this hotel embodies Japanese tranquility with its simplistic décor. Walk a couple of blocks north to see the Kanda River or access the Ochanomizu train station. Budget – Tokyo Hotel Horidome Villa At $66 USD per night – and with a 4-star rating on TripAdvisor – this Tokyo hotel is a steal. Located in the trendy area of Ginza, this downtown hotel allows guests to experience the vitality of Japanese nightlife. Traditional-Style – Ito Ryokan Experience Japanese tradition and stay close to main tourist attractions like the Imperial Palace in this traditional Japanese inn. Planning to visit Tokyo? Explore our Tokyo City Guide. Top Accommodations in Sapporo: Luxury – Jozankei Tsuruga Resort Spa Mori no Uta This luxury hotel outside Sapporo is a true spa lover's dream. Discover traditional Japanese onsen and various spa treatments in this mountainous resort. Budget – Mercure Hotel Sapporo Get easy access to the many ski resorts in Sapporo at this mid-range hotel. Each room comes equipped with complimentary internet access – a steal for $100 USD/night. Traditional-Style – Suizantei Club Jozankei A bit on the pricier side, this traditional ryokan offers guests a luxury Japanese experience in the mountains of Hokkaido. Take a dip in the hotel onsen or enjoy the culinary delicacies included in your accommodation package. No wonder it has a 4.5-star rating on TripAdvisor! Visiting Sapporo? Explore our Sapporo City Guide. Top Accommodations in Kyoto: Luxury – Hotel Mume First-class service and beautiful rooms earned this luxury hotel 825 reviews and a 5-star rating on TripAdvisor. Hotel Mume also has a prime location close to several shrines and temples in Kyoto. Budget – Toyoko Inn Kyoto Gojo-Karasuma Only a three-minute walk from Gojo Station and the Karasuma subway line, this budget hotel offers easy access to downtown Kyoto. Rooms may be small at this chain hotel, but they’re packed with features ideal for budget travelers, including breakfast and free nationwide phone calls. Traditional-Style – Tawaraya Recognized as one of the best ryokan in all of Japan, this traditional inn located in downtown Kyoto understands the importance of details. Rooms are sparsely decorated in true Japanese fashion, each one has a private garden attached, and the staff is incredibly knowledgeable. Transportation Within Japan Japan is home to an impressive network of roads, railroad tracks, ferries, and air routes connecting the entire territory. To get between islands, you’ll most likely have to take a short flight or ferry. In-country flights are both readily available and frequent between the nation’s main cities. Key hubs include: Narita International Airport (NRT, Tokyo) Haneda Airport (HND, Tokyo) Kansai International Airport (KIX, Osaka) Chubu International Airport (NGO, Nagoya) Fukuoka Airport (FUK, Fukuoka) Japan is heralded for its extensive rail network. Purchase a Japan Rail Pass for easy travel throughout any of the four main islands. Its ease of use and availability are well worth the cost. What To See and Do in Japan Japan is a land of attractions – the country has endless amounts of historical sites, acres of pristine forests, and a variety of vibrant cities to explore. Here are some of the top tourist sites in Japan: Top Tourist Sites in Tokyo Imperial Palace: The main residence of the Emperor of Japan is located in central Tokyo, a short walk away from the city’s Central Station. Buildings are not open to the public, but the gardens make the visit a true delight. Tsukiji Outer Market: This large seafood and produce market has hundreds of colorful stalls and restaurants. It is closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. Tsukishima: This is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. Travelers from all over the world come here searching for tsukudani - a kind of preserved topping that is served with rice - and monjayaki, a pancake-like dish that is popular in Japan. Shibuya: This popular entertainment area is packed with flashy neon signs, restaurants, and shops. It’s easily accessible through Shibuya Station. Meiji Jingu Shrine: Dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken, the Meiji Shrine sits in a 170-acre forest area in Shibuya. It is one of Tokyo’s most visited attractions. The shrine is in close proximity to Harajuku, Tokyo’s hotspot for youth and cosplay. Top Tourist Sites in Kyoto Imperial Palace: This palace is the former residence of Japan’s Imperial family. Visitors can freely enter the palace grounds, but buildings are off-limits. Railway Museum: Japan is a railway powerhouse, and this museum concentrates its history like no other. It’s well worth the ¥1,200 JPY ($7.57 USD in August 2024) price tag. Top Tourist Sites in Osaka Osaka Castle: One of the most iconic buildings in Japan, Osaka Castle is a towering structure evocative of a different era in Japanese history. Nijo Castle: Recognized as one of the surviving buildings of Japan’s feudal era, Nijo Castle features a number of perfectly conserved buildings and beautiful gardens. Visiting the castle is an immersive experience in to Japan’s history and a must-see for anyone visiting Osaka. Discover more things to see and do in Osaka with our Osaka City Guide! Top Tourist Sites in Hiroshima Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and Park: The park’s Atomic Bomb Dome was the only structure left standing following the atomic bombing in 1945. For many visitors to Japan, the museum and its grounds are powerful places for reflection. Miyajima Island: This island is home to the Itsukushima shrine, also referred to as the “floating shrine.” One of the largest torii (traditional Japanese gate) in Japan, the Itsukushima shrine is a relic of Shinto-era Japan. Read our Japan 14-day itinerary for even more help planning your first trip to Japan. Japanese Cuisine Japanese cuisine mainly consists of white rice, fish or beef, and vegetables often pickled or served in broth. Common dishes and preparations are sushi, udon noodles, miso soup, tempura, and grilled fish. In addition to traditional cuisine, Japan offers innovation and diversity in fast food, coffee, and craft beer. Western food is available, but usually at a higher price. Where To Eat in Japan You can find food in a variety of places in Japan. Of course, restaurants are popular – and world-class in Japan – but the nation is also known for the high-quality food available in convenience stores and vending machines. Sushi, ramen, and fast food options at small restaurants and street stalls start at $8 - $10 USD per serving, whereas nicer dinners are a bit pricier, starting at $20 - $25 USD. Read through Eater’s list of essential Tokyo restaurants for a full guide to popular restaurants in Tokyo. First-time visitors to supermarkets in Japan will notice it is much cheaper to purchase food at the market than to eat elsewhere, making Japan’s markets a great dining option for budget travelers. Fast food is also a great option for an inexpensive meal and an authentic culinary experience. In fact, fast food is other-worldly for any first-time visitor to Japan. The nation puts its own spin on typical fast-food chains like McDonald’s and Burger King, adding the Japanese flavor profile to American dishes. For example, McDonald’s Japanese menu heavily features shrimp, and classics like the Big Mac are elevated with the addition of bacon and egg. Burger King takes the sweet and savory approach, adding flame-grilled apple slices to the traditional Whopper Jr. Know Before You Go: Japanese History, Culture, and Traditions A large part of Japan’s cultural identity today is based on its history. On your first trip to Japan, you’ll find remnants and symbols of this country’s past in most of its historical sites. Japan’s history can be traced back to the year 660 BCE. During the course of the following centuries, the nation experienced periods of feudalism, expansionism, and war, each leaving its mark on the burgeoning country. Unification is a hallmark of Japanese society. During the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the government attempted to create a strong, centralized state with a singular national identity. Over the years, the cherry blossom, Japanese flag/rising sun, and Chrysanthemum flower have become powerful representations of Japanese identity. Following the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945, Japanese culture changed. Economic growth and social stability became national priorities, resulting in a modernized society where ordinary people can experience middle-class urban lifestyles. In the 1980s Japan experienced unprecedented prosperity, catapulting it to superpower status. In modern-day Japanese culture, local and regional identity is celebrated. Almost every town or city is famous for something, like a specific craft, culinary specialty, or song. Discover More Japan Travel Content from WorldTrips Travel Health Insurance for Japan Japan Travel Visa: What You Need to Know Traveling Japan Alone How to Cheaply Travel Japan Explore Japan City Guides from WorldTrips Fukuoka City Guide Nagoya City Guide Osaka City Guide Sapporo City Guide Tokyo City Guide Yokohama City Guide KHE2FFFYH6SP-971744701-1283 WorldTrips international travel medical insurance products are underwritten by Lloyd's. WorldTrips is a service company and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies. WorldTrips has authority to enter into contracts of insurance on behalf of the Lloyd's underwriting members of Lloyd's Syndicate 4141, which is managed by HCC Underwriting Agency, Ltd.
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What Is the Accidental Death Benefit in Travel Health Insurance?
An Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) benefit in travel health insurance is exactly what its name suggests: a benefit that provides coverage in case of your accidental death or dismemberment while traveling abroad. But what situations qualify for coverage? What scenarios are excluded? Read on to discover exactly what an AD&D benefit covers and why you may need one. What Is AD&D in Travel Health Insurance? The Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) benefit in travel health insurance pays money to you or your beneficiary if you die, lose your sight, or lose a limb due to an accident while traveling abroad. There are stipulations, of course. We’ll get into those details below. What Does AD&D Cover? AD&D insurance provides reimbursement in situations where a covered accident causes your immediate death or dismemberment, or where an accident causes a covered injury that later results in your death or dismemberment. Examples of situations where your AD&D benefit could cover you include a car accident, boating accident, or injury from a fall. Most AD&D Benefits Pay: The full amount outlined in your policy documents to your beneficiary if a covered accident or injury causes your death A portion of the full amount (often half) to you if you are dismembered in a covered accident that causes you to lose one limb or sight in one eye The full amount to you if you are dismembered in a covered accident that causes you to lose two or more limbs or sight in both eyes Your Beneficiary Will Only Be Eligible to Receive Your Accidental Death Benefit If the Following Is True: You die within a certain number of days of the initial accident that causes your deadly injuries (typically 30 days) Illness or disease do not contribute to your death The accident that causes your death doesn’t happen while you’re a paying passenger on a commercial airline or cruise line (Common Carrier Accident is typically a separate benefit – more on that later) The accident that causes your death is not the result of a situation or condition specifically listed in your policy exclusions Many travel health insurance policies, such as the Atlas Travel® plan from WorldTrips include an Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) benefit. You can find the benefit and its coverage limits on the policy documents for any policy you’re considering. You may also find it on the main webpage for the policy. What Are Policy Documents? The policy documents provide the full benefits and exclusions of an insurance plan and explain its claims process. You can typically find a link to these documents on the main webpage for the policy or on the quote form where you provide your trip information and learn how much your policy would cost. (Note that you will receive these documents along with your other fulfillment documents after you purchase a policy as well.) See a sample Description of Coverage for our Atlas Travel insurance policy. Important Definitions You Should Know Accidental Death: This generally refers to a situation where external means cause a sudden, unintentional, and unexpected occurrence that results in your death. Remember: Death must occur within a certain number of days following your injury. (For Atlas Travel, this period is 30 days.) Illness or disease may not contribute to your death. Accidental Dismemberment: This typically means a situation where external means cause a sudden, unintentional, and unexpected occurrence that results in either: Complete severance of one or more of your limbs OR Complete and irreversible loss of sight in one or both of your eyes Loss of Limb: This refers to either: Complete severance of your arm from your body at or above your wrist OR Complete severance of your leg from your body at or above your ankle Loss of Eye: This refers to complete and permanent loss of sight. PRO TIP: Consult the DOC for any policy you’re considering to see its specific and complete benefits. What Is Excluded From Travel Health Insurance AD&D? To Recap: You will only be eligible for the AD&D benefit if your death or dismemberment (or the injury that causes your death or dismemberment) results directly from external and visible means. You are not eligible if illness or disease contributes to your death or dismemberment. Let’s Clarify This With an Example: Say you suffer an epileptic seizure while driving a rental car abroad. The seizure causes you to crash the car, resulting in severe internal and external injuries. Ten days later, you succumb to your injuries in the hospital. In this scenario, you would not be covered by your accidental death and dismemberment insurance, despite dying as a result of your car crash injuries. Why? Because your epilepsy caused you to crash. Epilepsy is a seizure disorder, and health disorders count as an illness. An illness is any sickness, disorder, pathology, abnormality, ailment, disease, or any other medical, physical, or health condition. Examples of Situations Where Your AD&D Benefit Would NOT Cover You There are certain *situations and conditions that could result in your accidental death or dismemberment which would not be covered under your AD&D benefit. Examples of such situations include: Infection (except through a wound caused by an accident) Intoxication (as defined by local laws where the accident occurred) Mental health disorder Participation in a riot Pregnancy Suicide or self-inflicted injury Terrorism Voluntary drug use (except for drugs prescribed by a physician) War *Benefits and exclusions vary from policy to policy, so read all of your policy documents. Review the AD&D section thoroughly and make sure you understand all of the policy’s exclusions. PRO TIP! If you have questions about the policy considering, contact the insurance company directly. They can help you understand the policy's exclusions and verify its benefits. Do I Need Accidental Death and Dismemberment Coverage? We know it’s uncomfortable to think about what would happen if you were to become seriously injured or even pass away during a trip abroad. But it’s important that you take a second to consider the potential consequences of traveling abroad while uninsured. Who would pay for the resulting expenses in the case of your accidental death? Would you be able to afford the medical expenses resulting from your dismemberment or loss of sight? We believe that all travelers should expect the best but prepare for the worst. That’s why our Atlas Travel insurance policy includes up to $25,000 for a covered death or loss of 2 limbs and up to $12,500 for the covered loss of one limb (for ages 18 through 69). Atlas Travel offers AD&D coverage to individuals under age 18 and those over age 69 as well. You can see those benefit limits here. Does the AD&D Benefit in Travel Health Insurance Cover Repatriation? The Accidental Death and Dismemberment benefit included in most travel health insurance policies does not cover the cost of returning your body or ashes to your home country for proper burial or cremation. Instead, you’ll want a policy that also includes a separate benefit called Repatriation of Remains. The Repatriation of Remains benefit pays to transport your body by plane or ground transportation to your home country if your insurance covers the injury or illness that caused your death. This benefit also covers the cost of preparing your body for transport. Repatriation can cost several thousand dollars, and your family may already have to prepare and pay for funeral arrangements in their time of grief. Your travel health insurance company can coordinate travel arrangements for your covered repatriation, as well as pay all eligible expenses, which may be of support to your family as they grieve. Here’s a true customer story of Atlas Travel’s Repatriation of Remains benefit in action: Real-Life Example: Repatriation of Remains After a Tragic Accident in Thailand Thailand -> United Kingdom = $5,323 A 21-year-old British citizen teaching in Thailand was struck by traffic and died later that day. WorldTrips worked with his parents, the local hospital, and government officials to arrange for the care, preparation, and return of his remains to his home country. The traveler’s Atlas Travel policy paid $5,323 to cover the cost of bringing his body home to his family so they could have a burial for their loved one. Review the policy documents for any plan you’re considering to see if it includes AD&D coverage and a Repatriation of Remains benefit before you purchase. Does Travel Health Insurance Include Flight Accident AD&D? Many travel health insurance policies, like Atlas Travel, include accidental death flight insurance, or flight accident AD&D, in the form of a benefit called Common Carrier Accidental Death. What Does Common Carrier Accidental Death Mean? Similar to the AD&D benefit, Common Carrier Accidental Death covers international travelers who experience an unintentional and unexpected accident or injury that causes their death. Death must occur within a certain number of days following the accident or injury and previous injuries or illnesses may not contribute to it. Unlike AD&D, Common Carrier Accidental Death covers passengers who are aboard a commercial airline or cruise line. PRO TIP: When comparing travel health insurance policies, look to see if the policies you’re considering offer both AD&D coverage and Common Carrier Accidental Death coverage. Get Coverage for You and Your Loved Ones After a Covered Worse-Case Scenario It’s hard to think about how you or your family members would cope if you were to face an unexpected worst-case scenario while traveling abroad. Travel health insurance can’t protect you against accidents, but it can help protect you and your loved ones against some of the expenses that could result from your covered, accidental death or dismemberment during your trip. That’s why our Atlas Travel health insurance plan includes important benefits like: Accidental Death & Dismemberment – Up to $25,000 to your beneficiary in case of your accidental death or dismemberment (ages 18 – 69) Repatriation of Remains or Local Burial/Cremation – Up to your policy’s overall maximum limit for the cost of returning your body to your home country OR up to $5,000 toward the cost of burying or cremating your body in the country of your death (ages 18 – 69) Common Carrier Accidental Death – Up to $50,000 to your beneficiary if you die as the result of an accident while onboard a commercial airline or cruise line (ages 18 – 69) Travel health insurance can be easy to purchase and budget friendly. Atlas Travel policies start at $0.50* per day for travel outside the U.S. or $0.96 per day for travel including the U.S. *Costs based on the Atlas Travel daily rate in August 2024 for a traveler in the youngest age group (14 days - 29 years) who is traveling outside the U.S. with the highest deductible ($5,000) and the lowest overall maximum coverage limit available to this age group ($50,000). **Costs based on the Atlas Travel daily rate in August 2024 for a traveler in the youngest age group (14 days - 29 years) who is traveling to the U.S. with the highest deductible ($5,000) and the lowest overall maximum coverage limit available to this age group ($50,000). Your plan cost will vary depending on: the level of coverage you choose the deductible you choose your age your destination your trip length In addition to choosing your overall coverage limit and deductible, you can select from several add-ons during the checkout process to further customize your policy to your needs and budget. Pro Tip! Start an Atlas Travel quote to see what the price would be for your trip. Atlas Travel’s Accidental Death & Dismemberment Benefit Atlas Travel pays eligible AD&D expenses according to your age group. For each age group, the benefit limit specifies: the amount it will pay out for a covered death or loss of two eyes or limbs the amount it will pay out for the covered loss of one eye or limb The benefit also includes a lifetime maximum amount. This is the maximum amount Atlas Travel will pay toward your covered accidental death or dismemberment expenses during your lifetime. Accidental Death & Dismemberment Excludes expenses resulting from Common Carrier Accident Age Group Benefit Limit 14 Days — 17 Years Old Death - $5,000 Loss of 2 Limbs - $5,000 Loss of 1 Limb Lifetime Maximum: $5,000 18 — 69 Years Old Death - $25,000 Loss of 2 Limbs - $25,000 Loss of 1 Limb - $12,500 Lifetime Maximum: $25,000 70 — 74 Years Old Death - $12,500 Loss of 2 Limbs - $12,500 Loss of 1 Limb - $6,250 Lifetime Maximum - $12,5000 75 Years Old or Older Death - $6,250 Loss of 2 Limbs - $6,250 Loss of 1 Limb - $3,125 Lifetime Maximum - $6,250 $250,000 maximum benefit for any one family or group. This benefit is not subject to the policy’s deductible or overall maximum limit. KHE2FFFYH6SP-971744701-1284 WorldTrips international travel medical insurance products are underwritten by Lloyd's. WorldTrips is a service company and a member of the Tokio Marine HCC group of companies. WorldTrips has authority to enter into contracts of insurance on behalf of the Lloyd's underwriting members of Lloyd's Syndicate 4141, which is managed by HCC Underwriting Agency, Ltd.
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