Squaremouth, a travel insurance comparison site, recommends buying at least $50,000 in emergency medical coverage for international travel. For travelers going on a cruise or to a remote destination, the site recommends at least $100,000 in coverage.

Whether $50,000 in medical coverage is "enough" for travel insurance depends heavily on your destination and the nature of your trip. In 2026, medical costs in many regions have continued to rise, making $50,000 a "budget" or "minimum" level of coverage. For travel within Southeast Asia, parts of South America, or for Schengen Visa requirements (which require at least €30,000), a $50,000 limit might be adequate for minor illnesses or basic accidents. However, if you are traveling to the United States, Canada, or Japan, $50,000 is often considered dangerously low. A single day in a U.S. intensive care unit or an emergency surgery can easily exceed this amount. Furthermore, if you require an emergency medical evacuation (repatriation), costs can soar into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. For most international travelers, especially those engaging in physical activities or visiting high-cost countries, experts recommend a minimum of $100,000 to $250,000 in medical coverage to ensure they are not left with catastrophic debt in the event of a major health crisis.