Travel insurance is used by people who need protection when they are away from home, to cover them in the case of medical expenses, financial losses, liability, and other losses. travel insurance exists in a number of different configurations, and is available whether people are travelling within their own country or to an international destination. However, like all other forms of insurance, the type and amount of coverage that is on offer depends on the individual contract that is entered into by the insured party.

Travel insurance exists in the form of continuous travel insurance or temporary travel insurance, the former of which is normally purchased from insurance firms and the later of which is often purchased from travel agents and tour operators. However, there are a number of exceptions to this rule, and temporary travel insurance is also regularly purchased from insurance companies. The price of individual travel insurance policies has perhaps the biggest effect on the type of coverage on offer, with more expensive contracts being able to provide a deeper and more detailed level of coverage.

The most common types of coverage for a travel policy include medical expenses, emergency evacuation and repatriation, return of a minor to country of origin, repatriation of remains, cancellation fees, accidental death, injury, overseas funeral expenses, delayed departure, loss of baggage, theft of property, damage to property, personal liability, and legal assistance. However, while this list may seem comprehensive, not all policies will cover all of these areas, and many people also require additional, optional coverage to cope with certain situations and types of travel.

In addition to the regular coverage that is provided by a travel insurance contract, separate insurance may also be available for specific costs such as high risk sports, kidnap and ransom situations, natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and pre-existing medical conditions. These factors need to be listed separately in travel contracts as they are not normally covered under regular situations. In particular, the most common exclusions include pre-existing medical conditions, war or terrorism, and injury caused by alcohol or drug use. When taking out a travel insurance contract, it is important to read the fine print and find out exactly what you are covered for.