The best Medicare option for foreign travel is a Medigap Plan G (or Plan C/F if eligible), as it covers 80% of foreign emergency care costs up to a $50,000 lifetime limit after a $250 deductible. While some Medicare Advantage plans offer coverage, Medigap provides more consistent, reliable coverage abroad.
Most Medigap plans (C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, M, and N) provide foreign travel emergency health care with a lifetime limit of $50,000. These Medigap plans: Pay 80% of the billed charges for certain medically-necessary emergency care outside the U.S. after you meet a $250 deductible for the year.
Our Recommended Single-Trip Plans for Older Travelers
No, Medicare typically doesn't cover health care for people traveling outside the U.S. In rare cases of eligibility, Medicare will only pay for services covered under Original Medicare . If you plan to vacation outside of the U.S., here's some helpful information about Medicare coverage while traveling.
U.S. Medicare is generally not accepted in foreign countries, but there are a few exceptions: U.S. Territories: Medicare is accepted in U.S. territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands.
The most reliable travel insurance depends on your needs, but Travelex is consistently rated highly overall for its comprehensive, customizable plans and affordability, while Allianz is praised for ease of use and strong customer service. Other top contenders for specific needs include Seven Corners (medical/groups), AIG Travel Guard (add-ons/pre-existing conditions), and World Nomads (adventure). Look for high customer ratings, strong emergency medical/evacuation coverage, and flexible options like "Cancel For Any Reason" (CFAR) upgrades.
Martin Lewis's key travel insurance advice is to buy it "As Soon As you've Booked" (ASAB) your trip, even if it's months away, to cover cancellations before you travel. Always declare all medical conditions honestly, compare policies for the best fit (single vs. annual), and add extras for specific activities like cruises or ski trips.
With rare exceptions, traditional Medicare doesn't cover health problems when you're traveling outside the U.S., but some Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans do.
Special care if you become ill or injured while traveling
Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a list of local healthcare providers and medical facilities. If your illness is serious, consular officers can help you find medical assistance. If you want, they can inform your family and friends.
Comprehensive Coverage with Medigap Plan G
It also covers the daily copays you might encounter for a hospital stay over 60 days. It provides an additional 365 days in the hospital after your Medicare benefits run out and covers your skilled nursing facility co-insurance.
Medicare does not pay for medical services you receive outside the United States.
Here are some key factors you should think about while shopping for international health medical insurance for travelers visiting the U.S.:
Here are some of the biggest Medicare mistakes to avoid:
Your CalPERS health coverage will automatically be canceled the first day of the month after you turn 65. Review Cancellation of CalPERS Health Coverage for information on reinstating your health coverage.