Does my credit card insurance cover me?

Most credit card travel insurance is secondary and provides limited coverage. It rarely covers medical evacuation or 'Cancel for Any Reason,' so it is usually insufficient for expensive vacations.

Should I buy the insurance offered by the airline or resort?

Usually, no. These policies are often restrictive, provide lower coverage limits, and are tied specifically to that one booking rather than your entire trip.

Choosing travel insurance for an expensive vacation in Mexico

Select a comprehensive plan that includes at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 for emergency medical evacuation. Ensure the policy includes 'Cancel for Any Reason' (CFAR) coverage if you are non-refundable, as standard trip cancellation rarely covers changing your mind.

Verify your existing coverage. Call your private health insurance provider to ask if your policy covers medical care in Mexico. Most US plans do not, or they treat it as 'out-of-network' with high deductibles. Do not assume you are covered.
Prioritize high-limit medical evacuation. Medical evacuation in Mexico can cost upwards of $50,000 depending on the severity and location. Ensure your policy limit is at least $500,000 to cover air ambulance transport to the US or a major city hospital.
Compare CFAR vs. Standard Cancellation. Standard insurance only covers 'named perils' like illness or death. If you want the ability to cancel your expensive resort or villa booking for personal reasons, add the 'Cancel for Any Reason' upgrade, which typically reimburses 50-75% of costs.
Check the 'Pre-Existing Condition' waiver window. Most insurance companies require you to purchase the policy within 14–21 days of your *initial* trip deposit to qualify for a pre-existing condition waiver. Buy your policy as soon as you book your first flight or hotel.

Does my credit card insurance cover me?: Most credit card travel insurance is secondary and provides limited coverage. It rarely covers medical evacuation or 'Cancel for Any Reason,' so it is usually insufficient for expensive vacations.
Should I buy the insurance offered by the airline or resort?: Usually, no. These policies are often restrictive, provide lower coverage limits, and are tied specifically to that one booking rather than your entire trip.