Have you ever thought about the importance of travel insurance before boarding?
Many people only realize its value when it's too late.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to choose the ideal insurance, avoid pitfalls, and ensure peace of mind at any destination.
Main benefits of travel insurance
- Medical and hospital coverage
Avoid high costs with health emergencies abroad. - 24-hour assistance
Support in Portuguese, by phone or app, at any time of the day. - Compensation for lost luggage
You receive an amount to cover the inconvenience. - Refund for canceled flights
Ensures financial compensation for unforeseen events with the airline. - Legal and dental support
In some plans, these services are also included.
When it is mandatory
Some destinations do not allow tourists to enter without insurance that meets the minimum coverage requirements.
This is the case of the countries that are part of the Schengen Agreement, which we will address next.
Types of Travel Insurance: How to Choose the Ideal One for Your Trip
Not all travel insurance is the same — and choosing the right type makes all the difference.
Each plan is designed for a specific traveler profile, and understanding these differences helps avoid unnecessary expenses or insufficient coverage.
National Travel Insurance
Ideal for those traveling within Brazil, especially to remote destinations or those with risky activities. It covers medical assistance, accidents, and even trip cancellations.
International Travel Insurance
Necessary for trips abroad, with broader coverage. Includes medical assistance, early return, loss of documents, among others.
Travel Insurance for Students
Designed for exchange students. Offers specific coverage such as frequent consultations, psychological support, and educational assistance.
Business Travel Insurance
Made for business travelers. Covers cancellations, missed meetings, technical support, and issues with baggage or flights.
Travel Insurance for Seniors
Aimed at those over 60 years old, with special coverage for pre-existing conditions and enhanced medical assistance.
Sports or Adventure Travel Insurance
Perfect for those who practice extreme sports. Covers rescue, accidents during activities, and even damage to equipment.
Now that you are familiar with the types of travel insurance, let's understand the specific requirements for those traveling to Europe.
Travel Insurance Europe: What the Schengen Agreement Requires
If you're going to Europe, the travel insurance Europe it is mandatory in most countries.
This happens because of the Schengen Agreement, an agreement that requires a minimum health coverage for tourists.
The required amount is at least 30 thousand euros in medical assistance.
Without this insurance, you may be denied entry at immigration or left unprotected in the face of an emergency.
Among the countries that are part of the treaty are France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Portugal, among others.
Even in destinations where insurance is not required, it is highly recommended.
In addition to medical coverage, it is also important to check if the plan includes body transfer, early return, and service in Portuguese, which makes all the difference in stressful moments.
Are you planning to travel to several European countries? Choose a plan that covers the entire Schengen Area.
This avoids surprises during border crossings.
Now that you understand Europe's requirements, let's see what the best travel insurance available in 2025.
Comparison of the Best Travel Insurance in 2025
Choosing the best travel insurance may seem complicated, but with a direct comparison, everything becomes clearer.
Below, you can find the highlights of 2025 based on reputation, coverage, and value for money.
Allianz Travel
World-renowned, it offers plans with extensive coverage and service in Portuguese. Ideal for Europe and North America.
Assist Card
Popular among backpackers and students. It has good prices, reliable medical coverage, and an international support network.
SulAmérica
One of the favorites for domestic travel and South America. It has a good network of hospitals in Brazil and plans that include dental care.
GTA – Global Travel Assistance
Great for long trips or less common destinations. It provides support for pregnant women, the elderly, and sports enthusiasts.
Porto Seguro
Widely used by clients of Brazilian banks. Highlight for the proprietary app and speed of reimbursement.
Real Travel Insurance
In fact, it's a comparison tool that sells plans from various insurance companies. Ideal for finding promotions and getting personalized quotes.
When comparing, always pay attention to:
- Medical coverage limit
- Inclusion of Covid-19
- 24-hour service and language
- Cancellation and refund policies
- Baggage and flight assistance
This type of analysis helps you find the right plan for your profile, without paying a lot or compromising on security.
Now let's talk about the insurance offered for free by credit cardsIs it worth trusting them?
Free Travel Insurance with Credit Card: Is It Worth It?
Many people don't know, but some cards offer free travel insurance as a benefit.
However, it is necessary to understand how to activate this service and if it is really worth it for your type of trip.
Visa cards (including Visa Infinite)
They offer free international travel insurance, but only if you purchase the tickets with the card.
The insurance must be activated on the card network's website, with the issuance of the ticket.
Mastercard cards (Platinum and Black)
They also offer free coverage, but it is essential to issue the policy before the trip.
In general, the coverage is basic and is meant for short trips.
Nubank, Bradesco, Itaú, and Santander cards
Some of these banks offer the benefit on premium cards.
Check the app or the official website to see if your card is eligible and how to activate it.
Attention:
Although it is a good benefit, these insurances tend to have lower coverage limits e restrictions for pregnant women, the elderly, and high-risk activities.
Additionally, many do not include coverage for Covid-19 or lost luggage.
If your trip is long, to a destination with specific requirements or with different activities, purchasing a separate plan may be the best choice.
Now that you understand credit card insurance, let's talk about a destination highly sought after by Brazilians: South America.
Travel Insurance for South America: Argentina, Chile, and More
Traveling through South America is amazing, but each country may have its own requirements and risks.
Have a travel insurance suitable ensures peace of mind on any itinerary.
Argentina
Medical coverage similar to international, with reimbursement for consultations and hospitalizations. Pay attention to deductibles for medications.
Chile
Good hospital network, but the plan should include dental assistance and coverage for snow sports, if applicable.
Brazil (national)
If you are traveling between states, the national insurance covers accidents and cancellations, but does not include assistance outside the country.
Other destinations (Peru, Colombia, Uruguay)
Check if the plan includes medical evacuation and coverage for adventure activities such as high-altitude hiking.
Tip: choose a plan that covers all the countries you will visit, avoiding the purchase of multiple insurances.
National Travel Insurance: When and Why to Purchase
Traveling through Brazil also brings unexpected events — and the domestic travel insurance can be a great ally.
It offers protection in remote destinations and ensures quick support in case of accidents.
When to hire
– Travel to regions with distant hospitals, such as rural areas and ecotourism sites.
– Itineraries with adventure sports (rappelling, hiking, diving).
– Long-term trips, where unforeseen events add costs.
Why it's worth it
– Fast service: you are directed to accredited hospitals.
– Baggage coverage: useful for domestic flights with a risk of loss.
– Reimbursement of expenses: guarantees reimbursement for emergency medical expenses.
– 24-hour assistance: phone support for guidance and appointment scheduling.
Even on domestic trips, a small investment in insurance can prevent significant losses.
How Travel Insurance Health Coverage Works
Health coverage is the heart of travel insurance. Understanding what it covers avoids surprises and ensures assistance when you need it most.
Medical consultations
You are entitled to urgent and emergency consultations at accredited hospitals, without paying upfront.
Hospital admissions
If you need to be hospitalized, the insurance covers daily hospital stays, exams, and treatments up to the contracted limit.
Exams and diagnostics
X-ray, tomography, ultrasound, and other essential exams are included at no extra cost.
Medical removal and repatriation
In serious cases, the plan covers air or ground ambulance transportation to the country of origin or a suitable hospital.
Medications
Some plans reimburse expenses for prescribed medications during the trip.
Coverage for Covid‑19
Check if the plan includes Covid-19 testing and treatment, as not all provide this coverage.
Travel Insurance for Students, Pregnant Women, and Seniors
Each audience has specific needs, and some plans offer different coverages:
Students
- Includes regular consultations and psychological support.
- Coverage for course change or interruption due to health reasons.
Pregnant women
- Coverage until a certain week of gestation (check gestational age limit).
- Includes emergency prenatal consultations and repatriation if necessary.
Seniors
- Plans tailored for those over 60 years old.
- Coverage for chronic illnesses and specialized care.
Before hiring, confirm age restrictions, waiting periods, and coverage limits for each group.
How to Get Quotes and Compare Travel Insurance
Comparing plans is essential to find the best value for money. Follow these steps:
- Use online comparators
Platforms like SegurosPromo, Real Travel Insurance e Minuto Insurance allow you to compare several insurers at once. - Define your travel profile
Provide the destination, duration, age of travelers, and activities to get accurate quotes. - Analyze coverage and limits
Check medical coverage, baggage, cancellation, and repatriation values. - Check franchises and waiting periods
Understand if there are amounts to be paid in case of an event and waiting periods. - Read customer reviews
Search for comments about service and refund speed. - Consider the total cost
Don't just look at the lowest price; assess if the coverage meets your needs.
By following these steps, you choose a travel insurance without surprises and with total transparency.
Tips to Save on Travel Insurance Without Compromising Safety
- Buy in advance
Many insurance companies offer discounts for early booking. - Group travelers
Family or group plans usually have a lower price per person. - Adjust the coverage
If it's a short or low-risk trip, reduce baggage limits or extreme sports. - Use comparatives
Take advantage of coupons and exclusive promotions on comparison sites. - Check benefits of cards
Some credit cards offer discounts or cashback on the purchase of insurance. - Consider larger franchises
A higher deductible can lower the price of the policy, as long as you are comfortable with the risk.
Travel Insurance: Common Mistakes You Should Avoid
Avoiding these pitfalls helps ensure that your insurance actually covers what you need:
Leave it to the last minute
Hiring insurance the day before can be more expensive and leave you without time to review the coverage.
Do not read the entire contract
Ignoring exclusion clauses can leave you without coverage in critical situations.
Choosing solely based on price
The cheapest plan may have insufficient coverage or many restrictions.
Ignore age limits and pre-existing conditions
Some insurance policies do not cover pre-existing medical conditions or have age limits for enrollment.
Do not check destination requirements
Each country may have different rules; always confirm the minimum coverage required.
Travel Insurance with Nubank, Bradesco, Itaú, and Santander
Some banks offer travel insurance as a benefit on premium cards. Here's how it works:
Nubank
- Available on the Ultravioleta card.
- International coverage, but requires purchasing tickets with a credit card.
- Activation via the app.
Bradesco
- Available on Bradesco Prime and Black cards.
- Includes medical coverage and baggage.
- It is necessary to request the policy before the trip.
Itaú
- Platinum and Infinite cards come with travel insurance included.
- Basic coverage, with an upgrade option for an additional cost.
Santander
- Benefits on Elite and Unlimited cards.
- Includes medical and dental assistance.
- Check eligibility rules on the bank's website.
In all cases, check waiting periods and coverage limits before boarding.
Conclusion: Travel Insurance - Expense or Investment?
Hire a travel insurance it may seem like an extra cost,
but it is, in fact, an investment in safety and peace of mind.
With the right plan, you avoid unexpected expenses.
that can compromise your trip and your budget.
Before boarding, compare options, read the coverages.
and choose an insurance that fits your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Insurance
- What does international travel insurance cover?
Covers medical care, hospital services, lost baggage, repatriation, and cancellations, according to the plan. - Is travel insurance mandatory for Europe?
Yes, in Schengen Agreement countries, a minimum coverage of €30,000 is required. - Do credit cards offer free travel insurance?
Some offer it, but have limited coverage and require the ticket to be purchased with the card. - How do I get a travel insurance quote?
Use online comparators, provide destination, duration, and traveler profile. - Does travel insurance cover Covid-19?
It depends on the plan; confirm before hiring. - What is the difference between national and international insurance?
The national plan covers trips within Brazil; the international plan covers trips outside the country, with more extensive coverage. - Is travel insurance for pregnant women different?
Yes, there are gestational age limits and specific coverage for obstetric emergencies. - Is it possible to include extreme sports in the insurance?
Yes, choose adventure plans or add extra coverage. - How to activate the insurance in case of emergency?
Call the 24-hour center, provide policy information, and follow the instructions. - What is a deductible in travel insurance?
It is the amount you pay in case of a claim before the insurance company covers the rest. - Does travel insurance cover flight delays?
Some plans include refunds for delays beyond a certain time. - How to choose the best travel insurance?
Compare coverage, limits, price, and the insurer's reputation. - Does travel insurance for students cover exchange programs?
Yes, student plans offer educational and psychological support. - Do I need travel insurance for South America?
Although it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. - What is medical repatriation?
It is the transportation back to the country of origin in the event of a serious emergency. - Does travel insurance cover dental expenses?
Some plans include emergency dental coverage. - Can I cancel travel insurance after it has been contracted?
Yes, but there may be a cancellation fee and waiting periods. - Does travel insurance cover loss of documents?
It usually offers assistance and reimbursement for expenses related to the issuance of new documents. - How does the reimbursement of medical expenses work?
You pay and send receipts to the insurer for reimbursement as per the contract. - Is online travel insurance safe?
Yes, as long as you book on reliable websites and read the terms beforehand.
