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BCBS Travel Insurance for US Residents Traveling Abroad

BCBS International Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents Traveling Abroad

Whether you are going to Europe for a vacation or visiting family in Asia or you travel internationally a lot, your health insurance in the U.S. Does not cover you outside the United States. International travel medical insurance covers emergency bills, hospitalization, evacuation and more when you are abroad.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions offers international travel insurance for people living in the U.S. You can get single trip plan if you travel once in a while or a multi-trip plan if you travel often. Both plans have a network of doctors and hospitals in over 190 countries.

You can compare and purchase these plans through American Visitor Insurance, which helps you evaluate coverage options, pricing, and benefits across multiple providers to find the best plan for your travel needs.

Why Do U.S. Residents Need Travel Insurance Abroad?

  • Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical expenses outside the U.S..
  • Most domestic employer health plans offer limited or no international coverage.
  • Medical evacuations abroad can cost $50,000-$200,000 out of pocket.
  • Europe (Schengen countries) require proof of travel medical insurance for visa

Who Should Consider Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Travel Insurance?

  • U.S. citizens and permanent residents traveling internationally.
  • Americans visiting Europe, Asia, Latin America, or other global destinations.
  • Business travelers who take frequent international trips.
  • Retirees planning extended stays abroad
  • Families vacationing outside the United States.
  • Americans who need Schengen visa-compliant travel insurance.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Travel Insurance Plans

Blue Cross Blue Shield Insurance offers flexible international travel insurance options for U.S. residents traveling abroad. Whether you're planning a one-time trip or traveling multiple times throughout the year, BCBS provides both single trip and multi-trip (annual) coverage options to match different travel needs.

  • Single Trip Plans are designed for travelers taking one international trip, covering you for the entire duration of that journey.
  • Multi-Trip (Annual) Plans provide coverage for multiple trips within a 12-month period, making them ideal for frequent travelers.

Both options include benefits such as emergency medical coverage, hospitalization, and access to a global network of healthcare providers.

BCBS Single Trip Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents

Best for: U.S. residents taking one international trip lasting anywhere from 1 day to 6 months (up to 182 days).

BCBS Global Solutions Single Trip insurance comes in two tiers: Gold and Platinum. Both offer strong international medical protection. The difference comes down to one key factor whether you have a primary U.S. health insurance plan and whether you need pre-existing condition coverage. Both plans are available up to 95 years.

BlueCross BlueShield Single Trip Gold Insurance

Best for: U.S. residents who don’t have a primary U.S. health insurance plan, or travelers in good health with no pre-existing conditions want solid emergency medical coverage at an affordable price, and are taking one international trip up to 182 days

The Single Trip Gold plan is an affordable, budget-friendly international travel insurance option for U.S. residents. It provides reliable medical coverage abroad at a low cost, making it a simple and easy way to stay protected during your trip.

Top Benefits of BCBS Single Trip Gold - Standard International Protection
  • Global Medical Coverage: Pays for unexpected illness or injury abroad, including doctor visits, emergency hospitalization, and outpatient care up to $500,000.
  • Freedom to Choose Your Hospital & Doctor: No restrictions see any medical provider while traveling.
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation: Up to $500,000 for safe transport to the nearest appropriate medical facility.
  • Trip Interruption Coverage: Reimburses transportation costs up to $1,500 and lodging/incidentals up to $250 ($25/day for up to 10 days) if your trip is cut short due to a covered emergency.
  • Repatriation of Mortal Remains: Up to $25,000 for preparation and return of remains to the U.S.
  • Dental & Outpatient Prescription Coverage: Emergency dental treatment up to $500, relief of pain up to $250, and prescription medications abroad up to $5,000 per trip.
  • COVID-19 & Pandemic Coverage: COVID-19 and other pandemic illnesses are treated like any other covered medical condition.

BlueCross BlueShield Single Trip Platinum Insurance

Best for: U.S. residents who have a primary U.S. health insurance plan and want coverage for pre-existing conditions while traveling abroad.

The Single Trip Platinum plan offers full coverage for pre-existing conditions, making it one of the best travel insurance options for Americans during international travel. It is ideal for travelers with ongoing health concerns who want the highest level of medical protection abroad and maximum coverage limits for serious or extended trips, providing complete peace of mind while traveling internationally.

  • Global Medical Coverage: Pays for unexpected illness or injury abroad, including doctor visits, emergency hospitalization, surgeries, diagnostics, and outpatient care up to $1,000,000.
  • Pre-Existing Condition Coverage: Fully covers chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease for travelers with a qualifying primary U.S. health plan.
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation: Up to $500,000 for safe transport to the nearest appropriate medical facility if adequate care isn't available locally.
  • Worldwide Network Access: Access English-speaking, Western-trained doctors and hospitals in 190+ countries, with many network providers billing BCBS directly.
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D): Provides a lump-sum benefit up to $50,000 for accidental death or loss of limb, sight, speech, or hearing during your trip.
  • Trip Interruption & Quarantine Coverage: Reimburses transportation costs up to $1,000 and lodging/incidentals up to $50/day (max 10 days) if a covered illness, injury, quarantine, terrorism, or assault forces you to cut your trip short.
  • Repatriation of Mortal Remains: Up to $25,000 for preparation and return of remains to the U.S.
  • Dental & Outpatient Prescription Coverage: Emergency dental up to $500, relief of pain up to $250, and FDA-approved prescription medications abroad up to $5,000 per trip.
  • Physical Therapy & Chiropractic Care: Covers therapy, chiropractic care, occupational therapy, and acupuncture up to $100 per visit, maximum 6 visits per trip.
  • Hazardous Activities Coverage: Covers downhill skiing and scuba diving (up to 20m) with proper certification up to $25,000.

BCBS Single Trip Gold vs Platinum - Which Should I Pick?

Both plans are excellent options for U.S. residents traveling internationally, offering strong medical coverage and global support. The right choice depends on your health, travel frequency, and level of protection you need.

Choose Gold if:
  • You do not currently have a U.S. primary health insurance plan.
  • You are in good health with no pre-existing conditions.
  • You want solid emergency medical protection at a more affordable price.
  • You are a first-time international traveler looking for reliable coverage.
  • You want flexibility without needing a domestic health plan.
Gold gives you everything you need for a safe, protected international trip as long as you're in good health.
Choose Platinum if:
  • You are enrolled in a qualifying primary U.S. health insurance plan.
  • You have pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, or heart disease.
  • You want the highest medical maximum up to $1,000,000.
  • You are a senior traveler (60+) seeking maximum financial protection.
  • You are traveling to high-cost destinations like Western Europe, Japan, or Australia.
  • You want 100% prescription drug coverage instead of 50%.
Platinum is the ideal choice for travelers who want maximum protection, especially if pre-existing conditions could lead to higher medical costs abroad.

Quick Guide to Choosing Between Single Trip Gold and Platinum

If you are… Choose…
Healthy, no primary plan Gold
Healthy, have a primary plan Gold (save money)
Have pre-existing conditions + primary plan Platinum
Senior traveler (60+) with health history Platinum
Traveling to high-cost medical countries Gold (save money)
Healthy, have a primary plan Platinum
Budget is your top priority Gold
Maximum protection is your priority Platinum

BCBS Annual Travel Insurance for U.S. Residents

Best for: U.S. residents taking 2 or more international trips per year, with each trip lasting up to 70 days.

If you travel internationally more than once a year whether for business, visiting family, or simply exploring the world buying a new single trip plan for every journey can be both expensive and time-consuming. A Multi Trip annual plan solves this problem with one policy, one purchase, and coverage for unlimited international trips over 12 months.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Solutions offers two annual multi-trip travel insurance plans for U.S. residents: Multi Trip Gold and Multi Trip Platinum. These plans are designed for frequent travelers who want continuous international medical coverage throughout the year without the hassle of purchasing a new plan for each trip.

BlueCross BlueShield Multi Trip Gold - Year-Round Coverage for Frequent Travelers

Best for: Frequent international travelers who want affordable year-round coverage and whose pre-existing conditions are stable.

The BCBS Multi Trip Gold plan is ideal for frequent travelers seeking affordable, dependable global medical coverage throughout the year, covering unlimited trips within 12 months with each trip up to 70 days.

Top Reasons to Choose BCBS Multi Trip Gold
  • Annual Coverage for Unlimited Trips: One policy covers multiple international trips throughout the year, each up to 70 days.
  • Affordable Medical Coverage: Covers unexpected illness or injury abroad up to (under age 70) and $200,000 (ages 70-95).
  • Affordable Medical Coverage: Covers unexpected illness or injury abroad up to (under age 70) and $200,000 (ages 70-95).
  • Pre-Existing Condition Coverage: Includes coverage for pre-existing conditions, making it a strong option for seniors and frequent travelers.
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation: Up to $250,000 for transport to the nearest appropriate medical facility.
  • Prescription Drug Coverage Abroad: Covers medications purchased outside the U.S. up to $2,500 per policy period.
  • Dental & Basic Care Coverage: Includes dental treatment up to $200 for injury and $100 for pain relief, plus physical therapy up to 6 visits at $50 per visit.
  • Repatriation of Remains: Up to $15,000 for preparation and return of remains to the U.S..
  • Flexible for All Ages: Available for travelers from 14 days to 95 years, including seniors.
  • Budget-Friendly Annual Plan: Starts at approximately $145 per year, making it a cost-effective choice for frequent travelers.

BlueCross BlueShield Multi Trip Platinum - Maximum Year-Round Protection

Best for: Frequent international travelers who want the highest coverage limits and comprehensive pre-existing condition protection throughout the year.

The BCBS Global Solutions Multi Trip Platinum Plan provides premium year-long medical protection for frequent travelers and business professionals seeking higher coverage limits and access to the trusted Blue Cross Blue Shield Global Network.

Top Reasons to Choose BCBS Multi Trip Platinum
  • Annual Coverage for Unlimited Trips: One plan covers multiple international trips throughout the year, each up to 70 days.
  • Higher Medical Coverage: Covers unexpected illness or injury abroad up to $1,000,000 (under age 70) and $200,000 (ages 70-95).
  • Pre-Existing Condition Coverage: Covers pre-existing conditions for travelers enrolled in a qualifying primary U.S. health plan.
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation: Up to $500,000 for transport to the nearest appropriate medical facility.
  • Enhanced Prescription Drug Coverage: Covers medications purchased outside the U.S. up to $5,000 per policy period.
  • Improved Dental & Therapy Benefits: Dental coverage up to $300 per trip (injury and pain relief) and physical therapy up to 6 visits at $100 per visit.
  • Additional Protection Benefits: Includes AD&D coverage up to $25,000, lost baggage coverage up to $500 per trip, and hazardous activities coverage up to $25,000.
  • Emergency Family Travel Coverage: Up to $2,500 for travel and accommodation if hospitalized during your trip.
  • Repatriation of Remains: Up to $25,000 for preparation and return of remains to the U.S.
  • Flexible for All Ages: Available for travelers from 14 days to 95 years, including seniors.
  • Premium Annual Coverage: Starts at approximately $203 per year, offering higher protection for frequent travelers who need more comprehensive benefits.

BCBS Multi Trip Gold vs Platinum - Which Should You Pick?

Both Multi Trip Gold and Platinum plans are excellent annual travel medical insurance options for U.S. residents, offering coverage for unlimited international trips per year (up to 70 days per trip). The right plan depends on whether you’re looking for affordable coverage or higher limits with enhanced benefits.

Choose Multi Trip Gold if:
  • You want affordable annual coverage for frequent travel.
  • You are generally healthy and don’t need very high coverage limits.
  • You are comfortable with lower medical coverage (up to $500,000).
  • You want a lower premium option
  • You take multiple trips but want basic, reliable protection.
Gold is a smart choice for frequent travelers who want dependable coverage at a lower annual cost.
Choose Multi Trip Platinum if:
  • You want maximum coverage and higher protection limits.
  • You prefer higher medical coverage (up to $1,000,000).
  • You want higher emergency evacuation coverage ($500,000).
  • You want lower deductible and better overall benefits.
  • You travel frequently and want premium-level protection worldwide.
Platinum is ideal for travelers who want higher coverage limits and stronger financial protection for unexpected medical expenses abroad.

Quick Guide to Choosing Between Multi Trip Gold and Platinum

If you are… Choose…
Lower cost annual plan Gold
Higher medical coverage Platinum
Basic protection for frequent trips Gold
Maximum protection and benefits Platinum
Lower deductible & higher limits Platinum

BCBS Single Trip vs Multi Trip (Annual) - Which Should I Choose?

Not sure whether to choose a Single Trip plan or an Annual Multi Trip plan? The right option depends on how often you travel and how long you stay abroad. Use the comparison table below from American Visitor Insurance to find the best fit for your travel style and coverage needs.

Feature Single Trip Multi Trip (Annual)
Best for One international trip per year 2 or more international trips per year
Coverage period 1 day to 182 days per trip 364 days (up to 70 days per trip)
Number of trips covered One trip only Unlimited trips in 12 months
Maximum trip length Up to 182 days (6 months) Up to 70 days per trip
Plan options Gold & Platinum Gold & Platinum
Medical maximum Up to $1,000,000 Up to $1,000,000
Emergency evacuation Up to $500,000 Up to $500,000 (Platinum)
Pre-existing conditions Platinum plan Covered
Primary plan required Platinum plan Required for both
Cost structure Pay per trip One flat annual premium
Best value when Traveling once a year Traveling 2+ times a year
Ages covered 14 days - 95 years 14 days - 95 years
Purchase requirement Before departing the U.S. Before departing the U.S.
Choose Single Trip if:
  • You are taking one international trip this year.
  • Your trip is longer than 70 days (up to 6 months).
  • You want to pay only for the days you travel.
  • You do not have a primary U.S. health plan (Gold option available).
  • You are a first-time or occasional traveler.
  • You want flexible coverage tailored to one specific trip.
Single Trip is ideal when you have one major trip planned and want focused coverage just for that journey without paying for a full year.
Choose Annual Insurance if:
  • You travel internationally 2 or more times per year.
  • Each trip is 70 days or less
  • You want one plan that covers all trips without repurchasing.
  • You are a frequent or business traveler
  • You want to save money vs multiple single trip plans.
  • You have a qualifying primary U.S. health plan.
  • You want automatic pre-existing condition coverage on every trip.
Multi Trip is the smarter choice for frequent travelers one plan, unlimited trips, and year-round protection.

BCBS Global Solutions Travel Insurance - FAQs

1. Does my U.S. health insurance cover me when I travel abroad?

No. Most U.S. domestic health plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, offer little to no coverage outside the United States. Even employer-sponsored plans typically stop covering you at the U.S. border. BCBS Global Solutions international travel insurance is specifically designed to fill this gap covering emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and evacuation anywhere outside the U.S.

2. Is BCBS travel insurance Schengen visa compliant?

Yes. BCBS Global Solutions plans meet Schengen visa insurance requirements, providing the minimum $50,000 in medical coverage needed for entry into Schengen zone countries in Europe.

3. What happens if my trip is longer than 70 days can I still use a Multi Trip plan?

No. The Multi Trip plan covers each individual trip for a maximum of 70 days. If your trip is longer than 70 days up to 6 months you need a Single Trip plan, which covers trips up to 182 consecutive days.

4. Can I travel to different countries on different trips under the Multi Trip plan?

Yes. The Multi Trip plan covers unlimited international trips to any eligible country throughout the year each trip can be to a different destination, as long as it is outside the United States and not to a sanctioned country.

5. Do I need a primary U.S. health insurance plan to buy these plans?

It depends on the plan. Single Trip Gold does not require a primary health plan making it accessible to travelers without domestic coverage. All other plans Single Trip Platinum, Multi Trip Gold, and Multi Trip Platinum require you to be enrolled in a qualifying primary U.S. health insurance plan such as an employer plan, Medicare Advantage, or ACA plan.

6. Which plan is best if I have diabetes, hypertension, or another chronic condition?

If you have a pre-existing condition and hold a primary U.S. health plan, you should choose either Single Trip Platinum or Multi Trip Platinum. Both fully cover pre-existing conditions including chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and asthma. Gold plans do not cover pre-existing conditions and could leave you with significant out-of-pocket costs if your condition flares up abroad.