5 travel insurance mistakes that could cost you thousands

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November 12, 2026 / 8:36 AM EST / CBS News

Traveling can be expensive — even when everything goes according to plan. Between airfare, accommodations, transportation and activities, even a relatively modest vacation can require thousands of dollars in upfront spending. And when something unexpected happens, whether it's a medical emergency, a canceled flight or an unexpected family crisis that forces you to abandon your trip, the financial consequences can be substantial.

That's part of what makes travel insurance appealing to many people. For a fraction of the cost of a vacation, a travel insurance policy can provide financial protection against the types of events that would otherwise leave travelers paying for fixes out of pocket. But having travel insurance doesn't automatically mean every disruption or unexpected expense will be covered. Policies come with specific requirements, exclusions and reimbursement limits that can make a significant difference when it's time to file a claim.

And with many Americans continuing to navigate elevated costs in today's landscape, an unexpected travel expense could create financial problems that extend well beyond their travel plans.

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/moneywatch/