If you would lose the money you paid for your flights, accommodations, rental car, or activities if you had to cancel or go home early, travel insurance that specifically includes trip cancellation and trip interruption is probably a good idea.

In 2026, getting travel insurance is considered more essential than ever due to the increased frequency of climate-related flight disruptions and the high cost of international healthcare. A comprehensive policy protects you from three main financial risks: trip cancellation (reimbursing non-refundable costs if you get sick or have a family emergency), medical emergencies (covering hospital stays and medevac, which can exceed $100,000), and travel delays/lost luggage. With "Clear-Air Turbulence" incidents and extreme weather events rising, many travelers are finding that "standard" airline compensation often falls short of covering the full cost of a ruined vacation. Many premium credit cards offer basic coverage, but a dedicated policy from a provider like Allianz or World Nomads often includes "Cancel For Any Reason" (CFAR) riders, which provide ultimate flexibility. For a relatively small cost—typically 4% to 8% of your total trip value—insurance provides the "peace of mind" that one missed connection or a minor injury won't turn into a lifelong financial burden.