Travel Insurance USA

From the iconic cities to the diverse landscapes, the USA needs no further introduction. However, if you're planning a trip to the land of opportunity, it's crucial to have the best travel insurance USA policy for your personal needs so that you can make the most of your visit. Our policies offer comprehensive medical cover for any unforeseen illness and we also provide cover for cancellation and lost baggage. Travel insurance for America helps you to enjoy your trip, without any nagging concerns.

Compare travel insurance USA levels of cover

At Holiday Extras, you can purchase a USA travel insurance policy with one of four levels of cover, tailored to your specific requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need travel insurance for USA?

Travel insurance is very important if you're travelling to the USA. If you fall ill or lose your baggage you could be stuck with high costs to pay. Travel insurance will offer a valuable safety net for your trip.

It's worth considering a travel insurance USA if you have a pre-existing medical condition, too. This is important as there is no reciprocal healthcare agreement in place for visitors to the USA travelling from the UK. American medical fees can be extremely high and if you require medical treatment whilst you are there, you will have to pay in full.

Do I need a visa to visit USA from UK?

Most passport holders can apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) through the Visa Waiver Program (or VWP) which allows travel to the USA for up to 90 days. You will generally qualify to enter the USA using the VWP if your British passport describes you as a 'British Citizen' or has a recognised e-Passport electronic chip.

What is travel insurance and what does travel insurance cover?

Travel insurance covers unforeseen events when you are travelling. Most travel insurance plans are package plans that include various coverage. This cover can include cancellation cover, medical cover, cover for delayed or lost possessions (baggage cover), personal liability, and legal expenses.

Travelling with medical conditions

With a potentially higher need for medical assistance whilst abroad, it doesn't always have to mean a higher price. We have a dedicated team on-hand to organise a quote tailored to you, so we can provide a policy that is individual to your needs. At Holiday Extras, we consider all pre-existing medical conditions. Please read our travel insurance with medical conditions page to find out more.

What if I choose not to declare an existing medical condition?

In the unfortunate event that you require medical treatment that is in anyway related to an undisclosed condition, then your claim will be rendered invalid.

Can I refund my travel insurance policy?

Yes, you can refund your premium in full within 14 days of purchase, providing you have not claimed, intend to make a claim, or already travelled on your policy

Can I cancel my travel insurance USA policy?

It is possible to cancel your travel insurance policy worldwide within 14 days of making your purchase, during which time, we can fully refund your payment. If your cancellation falls outside of this duration then it is still possible to cut ties with your policy, unfortunately, we are not able to refund your policy in full but will be able to refund you on a pro-rata basis. We will refund 5% of the total premium paid on your multi-trip policy, for each full calendar month remaining on the policy from the date of cancellation, or for single trip policies we will refund 50% of the policy premium and any additional premium applied to your existing medical conditions.

British travel tips for visiting America

Tipping - Whereas in Britain and Europe tipping in not always expected, this is largely not the case in the USA. In the USA, if you go to a sit-down restaurant, it's expected that you tip at least 15% of the bill if the service was average. The expectation to leave a generous tip is also partly the reason why eating out is relatively cheap in the USA.

Restaurant freebies - You'll find that most sit-down restaurants will bring you complimentary bread, salad, water or chips without being asked. Feel free to enjoy these, as they are often included in the price of your meal.

Sales taxes - Be aware that when you pay for many goods and services in the USA, the price given on the price tag may not reflect the final cost, as the sales tax is added later at the checkout. Sales tax varies, but is usually between 6-10% of the price of the item.

Don't forget your ID - In America, the legal drinking age is 21 (that goes for both beer and spirits) and if you look under 40, it's likely that you'll be asked for ID. Remember, if you're buying alcohol in a group, everyone will have to produce appropriate ID.

Get the best USA travel insurance for your needs if you have a pre-existing medical condition - Healthcare is notoriously expensive in the US. According to the most recent data available from the Centres for Medicare, the average American spends approximately $9,596 dollars per year on healthcare and insurance. For this reason, it's always advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance for America to cover for any unforeseen medical expenses.

Things to do in the USA

• Take a road trip - A drive through red-rock deserts and expansive prairies can give you a different perspective on the USA.
• Explore New Orleans, the birthplace of Jazz and one of the true cultural powerhouses of the US.
• The USA is an art enthusiast's dream. There's plenty to see, from Jackson Pollock's paintings to Andy Warhol's pop art.
• Tuck in. Whether you prefer barbequed ribs or fresh lobster, the USA has it all.
• No trip to the US could be complete without a trip to New York, one of the most popular destinations in the world.
• The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and a truly awe-inspiring sight.
• Take a wilderness tour in Alaska. You can spot bears and humpback whales, and you could even see the Northern Lights.