What Does Flight Insurance Actually Cover? A 2025 Guide

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What Does Flight Insurance Actually Cover? A 2025 Guide

If you’re wondering whether flight insurance is worth it, it helps to understand exactly what it covers. In 2025, travel disruptions are still common — so here’s a clear breakdown of what’s included in most flight insurance policies.

1. Trip Cancellation or Interruption

This is the main reason most people buy flight insurance. If you need to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, jury duty, or other covered reasons, you may get reimbursed for:

  • Non-refundable flight tickets
  • Hotel bookings
  • Tour fees

Make sure your reason is listed in the policy — not all cancellations are covered.

2. Flight Delays

If your flight is delayed for more than a certain number of hours (often 6–12), you may get reimbursed for:

  • Meals
  • Hotels
  • Transportation

Some policies also offer flat-rate cash payouts for long delays.

3. Lost or Delayed Baggage

Many flight insurance plans cover lost, stolen, or delayed baggage. You might get reimbursed for:

  • Essential clothes or items you need while waiting
  • Lost checked bags (up to a limit)

4. Emergency Medical Expenses

If you’re traveling internationally, this is a critical benefit.

  • Covers unexpected doctor or hospital visits
  • Includes ambulance costs and medication
  • Some policies even cover emergency evacuation

5. Accidental Death or Dismemberment

This is a rare but serious benefit. If you’re severely injured or worse during your flight or trip, this pays out a benefit to you or your family.

Final Word

Flight insurance isn’t just about your plane ticket — it’s a package of protections that can save you hundreds (or thousands) in an emergency.

👉 Want to compare top flight insurance providers? See our full comparison here