How did we choose?
Each pick does a specific job in a jet lag plan: making rooms dark for naps, keeping a familiar sleep sound, helping kids sleep on the plane, or timing light. We haven't tested every product ourselves; picks are based on what each product is for, the maker's published specs and safety guidance. No brand paid to be listed, and there are no star ratings because we don't have real ratings to show.
Affiliate links: if you buy through links marked as sponsored, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we recommend. As an Amazon Associate, Jet Lag With Kids earns from qualifying purchases. Full disclosure.
What types of travel insurance are there?
| Type | Covers | Most useful for |
|---|---|---|
| Trip cancellation / interruption | Nonrefundable costs if you cancel or cut the trip short for a covered reason (e.g. a sick child) | Expensive, prepaid trips |
| Travel medical | Doctor and hospital bills abroad; you may pay first and claim later | Any trip outside your health plan's network |
| Medical evacuation | Transport to adequate care or home; can cost tens of thousands of dollars | Remote destinations, cruises, long flights home |
| Comprehensive | All of the above bundled | Most international family trips |
What should families check before buying?
- Who counts as a covered traveler, and whether kids are included free.
- Trip cancellation reasons: a sick child or family member is usually covered; "cancel for any reason" costs extra.
- Medical limits and whether the insurer pays hospitals directly.
- Pre-existing conditions (yours or a child's) and the purchase window to cover them.
- A 24/7 assistance line.
- Trip delay and missed-connection cover, which matters with tired kids.
Where can you compare plans?
| Where | Good for | |
|---|---|---|
| Squaremouth | Compares plans from many US travel insurers side by side. | Get quotes |
| InsureMyTrip | Comparison marketplace with licensed agents you can call. | Get quotes |
| VisitorsCoverage | Trip and travel medical plans, including for visiting relatives. | Get quotes |
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Subscription travel medical cover for long stays (medical only, not trip cancellation). | Get quotes |
The CDC lists side-by-side comparison sites such as InsureMyTrip and Squaremouth among places to research policies; CDC does not endorse any provider.
Frequently asked questions
Is travel insurance worth it for a family vacation?
Usually yes when the trip is expensive and nonrefundable, or abroad. For a cheap, refundable domestic trip it is often not needed.
Do kids need their own travel insurance?
Most family plans list each traveler. Some cover children free with a paying adult; others charge per person.
Does my health insurance cover my kids abroad?
Sometimes, often only for emergencies and often you pay up front. Call your insurer before you travel.
Related
- Make your family jet lag plan
- Sleep kit checklist
- Jet lag gear for kids
- Travel blackout for kids
- White noise for travel
Sources
- CDC Yellow Book 2026: Travel Insurance, Travel Health Insurance, and Medical Evacuation Insurance. Types of travel insurance and what to check before buying.
How we turn this research into plans: methodology.
Not medical advice. General sleep and travel guidance based on published circadian research. Ask your doctor or pediatrician about melatonin or other supplements, pregnancy, medications or health conditions. Never give melatonin to babies or toddlers.