Travel insurance can be an important part of trip planning, but choosing the right coverage requires attention to detail. From missing key deadlines to underinsuring trip costs, small mistakes can lead to big disappointments if a claim is ever needed.

To help you get the most out of your travel insurance — and avoid unexpected gaps in protection — here are the most common mistakes travelers make when buying travel insurance, and how Arch RoamRight helps prevent them.

❌ Mistake #1: Buying Too Late

Why It’s a Problem:
Some important benefits — like cancel for work reasons coverage and pre-existing condition waivers — are only available if you purchase your Pro Plus policy within a certain number of days (typically 21 or as indicated in your policy) after your initial trip payment.

How to Avoid It:
Buy your Arch RoamRight plan as soon as you make your first trip deposit. Early purchase expands your benefit eligibility and gives you more flexibility.

❌ Mistake #2: Not Insuring the Full Trip Cost

Why It’s a Problem:
Travel insurance benefits are tied to the total prepaid, non-refundable trip cost. If you don’t insure everything — including flights, tours, and lodging — you may be undercovered and risk reduced or denied benefits.

How to Avoid It:
Use Arch RoamRight’s quote tool to input the entire trip cost, and update your policy if you add more expenses later. If you’re unsure what’s considered “insurable,” a licensed representative can help.

❌ Mistake #3: Skipping the Fine Print

Why It’s a Problem:
Assuming coverage without reading the policy can lead to unpleasant surprises — like thinking you’re covered for cancellation due to a work conflict, when it’s not a listed covered reason.

How to Avoid It:
Arch RoamRight provides the Description of Coverage upfront, so you can review your benefits, exclusions and limits before you buy.

❌ Mistake #4: Relying Solely on Credit Card Insurance

Why It’s a Problem:
Credit cards may offer some limited trip protection, but rarely include emergency medical coverage, evacuation, or 24/7 travel assistance. Many require the trip to be paid in full on that card, and benefit limits are typically low.

How to Avoid It:
Review your credit card plan terms and conditions. Use credit card benefits as a supplement — not a replacement — for a dedicated Arch RoamRight travel insurance policy.

❌ Mistake #5: Assuming All Plans Are the Same

Why It’s a Problem:
Coverage levels, eligibility requirements, and exclusions vary widely between travel insurance providers. Even within Arch RoamRight, different plans are designed for different types of travelers.

How to Avoid It:
Compare plans side-by-side using Arch RoamRight’s online quote tool. Each quote includes benefit summaries, limits and optional add-ons.

❌ Mistake #6: Forgetting About Baggage or Travel Delays

Why It’s a Problem:
While most travelers focus on trip cancellation or medical coverage, everyday problems like lost luggage or missed connections can also cause major disruption.

How to Avoid It:
Look for Arch RoamRight plans that include baggage loss, baggage delay, and travel delay coverage. These benefits often come in handy more frequently than you’d expect.

❌ Mistake #7: Not Asking for Help

Why It’s a Problem:
Choosing a plan can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with travel insurance terms. Trying to figure it out alone may lead to buying the wrong coverage.

How to Avoid It:
Arch RoamRight offers support from licensed travel insurance representatives — available by phone or online — to answer questions, explain terms and help you choose the right plan.

✅ Quick Checklist for Smarter Travel Insurance Purchases

• ☐ Purchase within the required days (as indicated in your policy) of your initial trip deposit for additional benefits
• ☐ Insure the full, non-refundable trip cost
• ☐ Review your policy’s covered reasons and exclusions
• ☐ Consider optional upgrades like adventure sports coverage, if applicable
• ☐ Keep receipts and documents in case you need to file a claim
• ☐ Call our customer service at 800-699-3845 if you’re unsure — don’t guess

✈️ Avoid Mistakes. Travel Confidently.

Buying travel insurance is about preparation, not pessimism. With Arch RoamRight, travelers can access clearly written policies, comparison tools and expert assistance — helping you avoid common mistakes and make confident decisions.

Get a travel insurance quote today and explore the right plan for your next adventure.