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Relax. We make getting from city to city easy.

Experience the freedom of traveling door-to-door on your own schedule.

"We used Daytrip 4 times during our stay in Mexico and each time we had a hassle free journey. The cars were…" Read more

People turn to Daytrip for transportation in over 130 countries around the world.

How can Daytrip drivers help you

Help with your luggage.

Our friendly drivers handle your bags for you, and keep them safe if you stop for lunch or sightseeing.

Door-to-door service

We bring you door-to-door with no surprises. No more having to figure out public transport, or paying extra for a taxi.

See how it works

And a dedication to safety

Thorough driver screenings.

We individually interview every Daytrip driver, so you can rest assured they meet our world-class standards.

Clean, comfortable cars

We have strict vehicle standards, so you’ll always get a late-model car that’s safe, clean, and comfortable.

Familiarity

Our drivers know the rules of the road, so they can get you from A to B safely.

So you can see the country’s best-kept secrets

Optional sight-seeing.

From ancient ruins to natural wonders, we’ve hand-picked the best things to see along the way.

Local tips and information

Our friendly drivers are locals, and are happy to share their insights or give tips on what to do at your destination.

And turn your ride into an unforgettable experience

14 May, 2024 Reliable, good value and friendly. We used Daytrip 4 times during our stay in Mexico and each time we had a hassle free journey. The cars were always well air conditioned and the drivers polite and helpful. The communication every step of the way was clear and precise. They are good value too. We will use Daytrip next time we are abroad.

11 May, 2024 Superb Superb, 2 day trips in southern Spain. Prompt, excellent drivers. On time and exactly as planned. Wonderful trips to Ronda and Almeria, with stops. Will recommend and use again.

Passenger35059572232

9 May, 2024 Dubrovnik to Split with a stop in Bosnia It was great!! Driving through the country really was a wonderful way to see everything. Nikica was kind, efficient, patient, and encouraged us to enjoy the trip and not rush. We have zero complaints and would absolutely book again.

jenniferlN6158ED

9 May, 2024 We love Daytrip Luis did an excellent job driving us to our destination. We are so happy to have discovered daytrip. We are comfortable knowing we will be picked up on time with a comfortable door to door ride. Only way to go.

8 May, 2024 Wonderful Transfer We had a great time on our Porto to Lisbon transfer. Alex was a great driver and guide. He advised us on timings, things to do in the places we stopped, and was very personable. All while making sure we made it to the airport in time for our flight. We would definitely recommend this service and would be happy to take it again.

30 Apr, 2024 Excellent Excellent experience. Timely, good communication. Drivers were professional and helpful. Good English. Booked 2 separate trips in Switzerland and all went well.

Daydream572119

27 Mar, 2024 Great Service! Wonderful service - more flexibility than other options and we were able to see a couple new cities! Our driver, MIhaly, was prompt and friendly. The car was super comfortable and Mihaly provided water as well. Highly recommend!!

26 Mar, 2024 Reliable Top notch service with Sorina! My trip from Paris to Bayeux, via Versailles, with Sorina was amazing. She was constantly in touch with us so finding her was never an issue. She was lovely and we had a wonderful experience I have since recommended Daytrip (and especially Sorina) to a few friends of mine who will be traveling in the coming weeks. Again, thank you for being a dependable company and providing us with an amazing driver like Sorina.

23 Mar, 2024 Great experience My husband & I enjoy self-drive holidays as a couple, but as we are getting on in years, we felt that the stress of getting a car rental in cities we were unfamiliar with, became a hassle. Then we discovered Daytrip and we hv never looked back since. Just recently, we visited Portugal and all our land transportation was taken care of by Daytrip. From Lisbon to Porto to Lamego and back to Porto to catch our flight home, Daytrip provided such efficient & excellent services - their drivers were always on time, so polite & speaks English, knows the area so well that they were also excellent tour guides. The vehicles very clean and almost new. We were constantly updated with details of our upcoming trips, given driver's particulars, vehicle no & type, etc.....what more can we ask for! As tourists in a foreign country...we appreciated this and felt so safe! I have been recommending Daytrip to all my friends back home.

22 Mar, 2024 Ride review Marcos O. was fantastic! Very professional and knowledgeable! He helped with our luggage and ensured that we arrived safely at our destination. Highly recommend!!

Y5769PEjohnb

20 Mar, 2024 Wonderful solution for hiring a driver for long distance drives This was our first time using Daytrip and it was a great experience. Our driver, Juan, showed up on time and was so friendly and engaging. He spoke English well enough so that we could converse with him as we drove the 3+ hours from Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende. I would recommend using Daytrip to anyone looking to get from one location to another without having to hire a very expensive private car.

16 Feb, 2024 Our first (but not last) trip with Daytrip This was our first time to use the Daytrip service and it absolutely exceeded our expectations! Instead of flying from Malaga Spain to Albufeira Portugal we decided to hire a driver. The cost and time required was about the same but the experience was so much more enjoyable with Daytrip. The booking process was simple and their communication was outstanding. As someone who's flown well over a million miles and has stayed in well over a thousand hotel nights, I truly appreciated how quick, clear and personal their messaging was (if it's AI then that's amazing). We can't say enough about pur driver, João S. He arrived early and messaged us that he was ready whenever we were. He greeted us warmly in excellent English (apparently everyone takes English in Portuguese schools) and even had an umbrella ready to keep us dry! He was very engaging and provided us with tons of great information as this was our first trip to Portugal. His driving was excellent and we always felt safe, even during a short period when there was heavy rain. We stopped for an excellent lunch at a wonderful little beach restaurant and let him order us a delicious traditional Portuguese meal. He dropped us off on time and extremely satisfied that we had made the right decision in picking Daytrip!

16 Feb, 2024 Great service The experience was very good. I am a full time traveler so I was looking for a service just like this. We had a good experience with Slaven our driver and I definitely will be using the company again. The driver came early and helped us with our luggage. The communication with him and the whole team was always very fast and good. There was no good option for us to travel from Italy to Slovenia with all the stuff we have and ski equipment but because of this service we were able to travel to Slovenia in 3 hours with no problem with all our stuff. The communication via email is excellent and they provide alot of information about your trip, you can see your driver’s photo and information, the car and the trip itinerary on your account, so you are uptodate on everything and it goes very smoothly. I definitely recommend them.

12 Feb, 2024 Excellent Service............ Daytrip is very reliable and sends multiple confirmations with very detailed instructions on pickups. Our driver, Patrick, also contacted ahead of pickup to confirm details and was on time picking us up. The vehicle was very clean and comfortable and we were provided bottled water.

Sightseer554573

11 Feb, 2024 Exceptional Service from Vientiane to Vang Vieng Easy to navigate website. Smooth journey with excellent and courteous driver, clean car. Most impressive of all was the customer service and care both pre and post journey. Would not hesitate to use Daytrip in future, or to highly recommend.

10 Feb, 2024 Excellent ride from Wadi Rum to Amman We were so happy with the service Ibrahim gave us on our drive from Wadi Rum to Amman via Shobak Castle. He arrived early, was friendly and extremely kind and generous, and a very safe driver. We loved our experience with him.

With simple, flexible bookings

Book with a click (or tap).

Our easy-to-use website and curated content mean you can book a trip on the other side of the world in seconds.

Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the trip

We know travel plans can change, which is why we have an industry-leading cancellation policy.

Plan one trip between cities or your whole vacation

56,000+ available routes

Daytrip offers the most convenient way to travel between cities around the world.

13,000+ sights

Make the most of your holiday with optional sightseeing stops.

San Jose Palace

Surrounded by a picturesque gallery of arches, this beautiful rose colored building was the home of Argentina's most important leaders.

Glamis Castle

The childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, birthplace of Princess Margaret, and setting for Shakespeare's ‘Macbeth’, Glamis is also one of Britain’s most haunted castles.

Chateau de Chantilly

This gorgeous chateau has hosted several kings, and has been preserved exactly as its last owner left it.

A relic of the gold rush, this tiny town boasts New Zealand’s longest-running post office.

Enjoy a fresh cooked meal and makes some fuzzy friends at this family-friendly zoo.

Sacred Relic of The True Cross

This hilltop monastery is the only place in Asia to house a relic of Christ’s cross.

The Donkey Sanctuary of Mallow

For over 30 years, this charity has been helping save neglected donkeys and mules while welcoming visitors to give these friendly creatures some love.

Horezu Monastery

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for the purity of its architecture and the school of painting founded here.

Sandalford Wines

Sample reserves, vintages, and different ranges at this historic winery.

Moli de Dalt

Recently restored to its former glory, this quaint blue and white windmill features a museum on the bottom floor and scenic views from the top floor.

Experience what a life in a village in colonial Australia be like in this interactive open air museum.

In 1940, over 300,000 Allied troops miraculously escaped being overwhelmed by German forces.

Ta Cu Mountain Park

Laying atop this lush, forested mountain is the largest statue of ‘Buddha entering Nirvana’ in Southeast Asia.

Sturdza Palace in Miclauseni

This lavish Gothic-Revival mansion was gutted by the Communists, but its halls are still filled with its rich history, brought to life by friendly guides.

We believe traveling to another city should be more than easy. It should be an experience.

Daytrip was founded in 2015 with a simple goal in mind: to make traveling to another city easy. We know public transport is stressful and time consuming, so we came up with a better option: door-to-door service in a private car. And then we started thinking about what could make a travel day even better?

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Make changes to your booking or cancel your reservation up to 24 hours before departure and get a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, here are the answers.

Daytrip is a platform that connects you with local drivers who will transport you door-to-door, from one city to the next. We also give you the opportunity to explore sights/attractions along the way. We drive, you discover.

All Daytrip bookings are one way. If you need a return trip on a different date, simply book this as a separate one-way trip. For a same-day excursion, please request a custom trip . If you plan to stay more than a couple hours, we still recommend booking two one way trips so you're not paying a driver for waiting.

For Daytrip’s private service, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. For the Daytrip Pool shared shuttle, we offer 3 ticket options when booking: Non-refundable, Flexible with cancellations 24-hours before departure, and Super-flexible with cancellations up to 15-minutes before departure. While you can cancel your booking for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, changes requested under 36 hours are subject to driver availability, especially in the high season.

Simply choose your origin and destination via our homepage and enter your departure date and time. Browse and add sightseeing stops along the way by following the booking instructions provided on screen. It's a simple, easy, and fun way to book your next adventure! And if you don’t see your desired route on our website, you can request a custom trip . You can even book without knowing your exact pick-up or drop-off address - we let you add these later!

Each passenger is allowed one large bag (29" x 21" x 11" / 74 x 53 x 28 cm) and one small bag (22" x 14" x 9" / 56 x 36 x 23 cm). Luxury sedans can only accommodate 2 large bags. We always send the vehicle that is the best fit for you and your luggage, so make sure to select the actual amount of luggage you are traveling with when booking. If you have oversized luggage, or are unsure if your luggage will fit, contact us .

Everywhere except the USA, drivers will supply appropriate child seats (just let us know during booking). In the USA, certain states require you to supply your own child seats.

How can I contact you?

We offer different support channels for your convenience.  Chat   The best and fastest way to reach us is through our chat support. Our chat service is available in your local language and can assist with all inquiries and requests. Whether you have questions about your booking, need assistance with changes or cancellations, or require any other form of support, our chat representatives are here to promptly help you.

You can request a transcript of your chat conversation from our customer service team via the same chat or call. Our chat support team can swiftly handle requests related to: General booking questions Changes and Cancellations Add-ons and extra services Schedule changes and Force Majeure situations Refund requests Phone   Alternatively, if the chat option is unavailable, if you have an urgent request, or if your flight is departing shortly, you can contact us via phone. Our phone support offers fast assistance, can handle all types of requests, and can help you out with the majority of inquiries within a single call, in English or your local language. Other   You can also reach us via email; however, please note that the response time for emails is longer compared to chat and phone support and it may take several days to receive a response. Kindly be aware that we do not handle any type of rebookings or urgent requests, such as immediate cancellations, through email. Additionally, responses to emails may be provided in English rather than in your local language. Our support email address can be found in our  Travel Conditions . When contacting us, make sure to include your order number to the message. Please remember that we cannot assist with urgent requests or flights departing within the next 72 hours via email. In such cases, you need to contact us via chat or phone. To find our contact information, simply log in to  My Bookings and navigate to the "Contact Us" tab, where you will find our contact details.  From there, you can also access your flight information, check your open requests, and even add more products and services to your bookings.

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MyTrips Instructions

Follow the steps below to set up your MyTrips traveler profile or add a new trip to your existing profile.

This step is required before you can add a trip, and must be done online.

• Go to the MyTrips database
• Must contain at least one capital letter
• Must contain at least one special character [@#$%^&+=_]
• Must be at least 6 characters
• Your university email address
• Home country (the country where you reside)
• Phone number of the mobile phone you’ll use while traveling
• Your employee or student ID number
• Personal emergency contact information
• University emergency contact information if you are an employee
• Your department or school
• Your role at the university
• TIP : Username is your university email address.

Find full instructions in the  User Guide  on the ISOS website.

If you need  Emergency Assistance: +1 215-942-8478

If you need  Technical Assistance: +1 215-354-3862

If  you need  Technical support: +1 646-259-0477 or   [email protected]

To enter your information manually:

• Enter your username and password. (Your username is your WUSTL email address.)
• Click on  Create New Trip  in the navigation bar.
• Enter the trip name or the confirmation number for your trip.
• Based on your itinerary details, start adding the trip segments by clicking the appropriate tab.
• Enter all other information requested, including purpose of your trip, whether you are traveling with someone else, emergency contact information in the country or countries you are traveling.

To enter information using the Forward Itinerary Functionality:

The Forward itinerary functionality provides a convenient way to submit your itinerary details to MyTrips by forwarding your itinerary via e-mail.

• Forwarding your own travel itinerary: If you have an e-mail with electronic data from your booking, (flight reservation, hotel reservation, etc.), forward your itinerary from your wustl.edu e-mail address to:  [email protected]  for an automatic upload.
• Forwarding a travel itinerary on someone else’s behalf: You can also use this functionality to submit an itinerary on someone else’s behalf by forwarding the itinerary to the traveler’s wustl.edu e-mail address and cc’ing: [email protected]

After creating your travel profile, you can update your information or add trips at  mytrips.wustl.edu .

Keep your profile up to date to ensure you receive essential medical and travel security advice during your trip.

You will use this app on your smart phone while traveling abroad to view your itinerary, make changes to your itinerary, find emergency assistance if necessary, receive important notices about the country/region you are traveling in, and other important functions/activities.

• In your smartphone’s app store, search for ISOS and download the International SOS Assistance app for free.
• An email will be sent to your university email address for verification. Click the link in the email to verify your account.

Remember your password!  While traveling you’ll use this app to view your itinerary, find emergency assistance, and other important functions.

You may register for someone else in two ways:

You must register through the ISOS TravelTracker Manual Trip Entry system for administrators, per the following:

• Create your profile using the same instructions for  Create your traveler profile
• Contact  [email protected] and request access to the  TravelTracker Manual Trip Entry  system for administrators. You will be sent an email giving you access to enter this system.
• Go to WashU’s  ISOS portal page ;
• Click on  For Administrators  in the right-hand box;
• Login to your MyTrips account with username and password;
• Click on  Tools  in the top navigation bar and select  Manual Trip Entry ;
• Search for the traveler’s name by first name, last name, or email address. If they have created a profile, it will appear in your search. Once you select the traveler, you will be able to view the traveler’s profile details. You can change the traveler’s profile details here if needed. Or, if the traveler has not created a profile, you can create one at this time.
• From the existing (or new) profile page, click on  Create New Trip  and  Add Flight ,  Add Accommodation , etc. to manually enter the travel details.

You must have the traveler’s MyTrips login credentials (username, password). If you have the traveler’s username and password, you may add a trip by following these steps:

• Click on Login to  Create A Trip  or  Update My Profile
• Enter the traveler’s login credentials
• Click on  Create New Trip  in the upper left corner of the ISOS MyTrips screen
• Add the information about the traveler’s trip (you will need in-country contact information, purpose of the trip, etc.)

Registration for a group of travelers who have the same itinerary:

• You must first have a MyTrips login
• Contact  [email protected] and request access to the  TravelTracker Manual Trip Entry  system for administrators. You will be sent an email by ISOS giving you access to enter this system.
• Click on  Add Traveler  for each new traveler, and repeat the steps for profile entry and adding travel details.
• You will enter the travel details when prompted, and then click the  Add traveler  at the bottom of the  Create New Trip  page for each new traveler.

Please note: The  [email protected]  inbox is no longer operational. You must forward your itinerary to the appropriate e-mail address above if using this feature.

Itinerary emails must be forwarded to  [email protected]

• You must delete any extra text (signatures, comments, etc.) from the itinerary email.
• If your MyTrips profile is linked to your wustl.edu email address but you received your booking information to a personal email address, you must first forward the email from your personal email to your wustl.edu email. If you forward your itinerary from an e-mail that is not your MyTrips profile email, the itinerary will not connect.
• When you forward an itinerary confirmation e-mail to the mailbox, you will receive an automated e-mail from MyTrips regarding the processing status of the trip details. You can always log in to your MyTrips account to view or edit the trip details. The trips will be labeled as “Forwarded Itinerary” for easy identification. If the trip details cannot be processed, you will receive an automated e-mail recommending that you access your MyTrips account in order to enter the trip details there.

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TOPS Help Center > Member Sign In and Profile Help > Activating Your Account

Activating Your Account

• TOPS Help Center
• Questions About Joining TOPS
• Questions Members Ask
• Sign In and Profile Help
• TOPS Store FAQs

Activate Your TOPS Login Account

There is no additional cost to sign up for online tools and support. It’s a membership benefit, and Sign In only takes about five minutes if you have your membership number and chapter ID handy.

Note: If you joined TOPS® online, then you created your own username and password at that time, and you do not need to activate your account.

• Go to www.tops.org and click Sign In button located in the upper right hand corner of the website.
• On the Sign In page, click the link free TOPS Account in the yellow box labeled “Activate Your Account”.
• On the New TOPS Login Account page, enter your 7-digit membership number. (see the section " How Do I Find My Membership Number ?")
• Enter your Chapter ID in this format: WI 0123 (2-letter state/province code + 1 space + 4-digit chapter number) If your chapter number is less than four digits long, just add zeroes in front to get to four.
• Click the Activate Your Account button.

If you see the message, “Thanks for Activating!,” then you’re all set.

You should receive an email confirmation of your username and password if we have a valid email address on file. We recommend that you jot down your username and password and keep it in a safe place.

If you receive the message, “Your Account Login (username) and Password are already active,"  then just go back to the Member Sign In page and click on the “ Forgot my password ” link in the “Sign In” box.

After activating your account, sign in with your account:

• Click on Sign In at the bottom of Your TOPS Login Information page.
• On the Sign In page, go to the Sign In box and enter your username .
• Enter your password .
• Click on Sign In . You should now have access to all information available to signed in members.

Need Additional Help?

Email support only. Contact technical support at [email protected] .

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Staying on top of your travel plans has never been so easy

Checkmytrip is your digital travel assistant, bringing you trip itinerary, flight alerts, travel services and extras in one place to get you smoothly from door to door..

Try it, it’s free.

Adding trips is easy

3 simple ways to add and organize your itinerary details.

Forward booking confirmation e-mails to [email protected]

Ask your assistant to import the trip automatically by using your booking reference number

Share the trip details with your assistant to create the trip for you

All the travel info you need, in one app

Manage your trips.

View each trip as a single itinerary with all your bookings.

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Receive real-time updates on your flight bookings for FREE, including delays, cancellations and terminal changes.

Book extra travel services

Quick access to travel extras like transfers, activities and airport lounge access, wherever you are in the world.

Get personalized suggestions

Access personalized trip updates and recommendations directly in the chat with your digital assistant.

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Access your trip itinerary whenever you need it - even while offline.

CheckMyTrip has an extensive partner network to bring you all the information you need during your trip, in one place.

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Where can I find my ticket and what documents do I need to take with me on my trip?

Your booking confirmation and your travel documents were sent to you by email at the time of booking. You can also find them here via our website. Log in with your email address and your order number. In the right-hand column at the top, you will see ‘Print my confirmation’ and lower down in the middle of the page you will find ‘Travel document’.

• Confirmation

Print out the confirmation and take it with you, together with a valid passport. If you have booked a hotel, your hotel voucher will also be in the confirmation. You have to show this when you check into the hotel.

•  Travel documents

Print out the travel document and take it with you, together with a valid passport. The travel document includes the airline’s booking number and your ticket number.

You will find the latest flight information on the airline's website, alternatively via www.checkmytrip.com , www.viewtrip.com  or www.tripcase.com . You can also find the ticket number and the airline’s booking number, which is updated within 24 hours after booking. As the customer, you are responsible for checking that your flight times are up to date for both the outward and return journeys via the airline’s website or the websites suggested above.

Copy My Trip: A homestay tour of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Jun 11, 2024 • 9 min read

Sleep in community-run homestays to experience the best of Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley © Joe Bindloss / Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet writer Joe Bindloss recently traveled around Nepal ’s Kathmandu Valley, staying in community-run homestays. Here, he shares some tips and insights for anyone looking to plan a similar trip.  

For most of the travelers who descend into the hill-ringed airport in  Kathmandu , Nepal is all about trekking , ideally on the breathless trails snaking around Sagarmatha (Mt Everest) and the Annapurna and Manaslu mountain ranges. But while the mountains are undeniably majestic, above the snowline, there isn’t much more than rocks and ice. Nepal’s cultural heartland lies in the Middle Hills, the green band of highlands dividing the Himalayas from the Terai plains, and it was this area that I wanted to explore in more detail.

The three former city-states that dominate the  Kathmandu Valley – Kathmandu,  Patan and Bhaktapur – are firmly on the traveler map thanks to their towering temples and palace-crowned medieval squares, but I wanted to see more of the valley, and find out how people lived away from the clicking cameras.

Staying at community-run homestays dotted around the valley was a window onto a different Nepal, away from the trekking trail bustle. In place of mountain passes and trekking chitchat, I got to sit in on community dances, tag along on temple trips, chip in at mealtimes, and get my hands dirty trying traditional crafts – all the time learning more about Nepal through its people. Here’s what I discovered.

Where did you stay? What was the vibe?

Hopscotching around the valley from Kathmandu to Thimi, Bhaktapur, Nagarkot, Namobuddha, Panuati and Kirtipur, I stopped overnight at a series of family-run homestays, arranged through the  Community Homestay Network in Kathmandu – a pioneering organization that aims to redistribute income from tourism to rural communities. Control of the project lies in the hands of local women, many of whom achieved financial autonomy for the first time when they joined the homestay network. 

In the ridgetop village of  Nagarkot , I was hosted for several nights by Sarada Bastola and her son Anup, staying in a simply decorated but comfortable bedroom in their family shophouse, built to replace the family’s mudbrick farmhouse, which was destroyed in the 2015 Nepal earthquake. It was a bit like staying with friends of friends – we shared a bathroom and homecooked meals (mostly of vegetables grown in the village) were taken together in the family kitchen or out on the rooftop.

I spent one night in more conventional accommodation so I could be close to the hilltop  Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery at Namobuddha, stopping over in a slate-roofed, Nepali-style cottage at the charming  Namobuddha Resort . My room looked out over a lush tropical garden teeming with barbets, woodpeckers, drongos, bulbuls, babblers, flycatchers and other Himalayan birds. The multi-throated dawn chorus was quite something!

My hosts in Panauti were Ruku Shrestha and her children, Aaditya and Jyoti, who put me up in a roomy bedroom in their bazaar-side home, backing onto the homestay association’s social hall. It was a fascinating introduction to the tight sense of community in this small country town. In between hosting me and hustling the children off to college, Ruku zipped around the neighborhood, supporting other village women as part of a community-led project based on microloans and shared labor.

What was the best thing you ate?

Everyone who travels to Nepal falls in love with momos, the local dumplings, but the experience is even more magical when you make them yourself. Learning from locals is a core part of the Community Homestay experience, and my hosts in Panauti set aside an evening for a crash course in making the perfect momo.

In fact, I didn’t make one momo, I made dozens of them. While matriarch Ruku focused on chopping up ingredients, Aaditya and Jyoti guided me through the essentials of momo-making, beginning with mixing together a huge mound of minced buffalo meat, vegetables and momo masala (the blend of Nepali spices that gives Nepali momos their distinctive flavor).

Next came the momo wrappers, prepared from a simple wheat-flour and water dough. We quickly established an efficient production line, with Jyoti splitting the dough into balls, Aaditya rolling the balls flat with a miniature rolling pin, and the three of us stuffing in the filling and pinching the wrappers together to make neat parcels.

Admittedly, mine looked more like tortellini than the classic "drawstring bag" momo shape, but after a quick steaming, the results were delicious.

What was the most under-the-radar activity you enjoyed?

I learned how to throw a clay pot in the pottery-making village of Thimi. While neighboring Bhaktapur is famous for pottery (there’s even a whole  medieval square devoted to potters) many of the best artisans come from Thimi, and I joined a morning class with the owner of NP Ceramics to learn the basics of this traditional Nepali artform.

My teacher, Nara Bhakta Prajapati, grew up making traditional water ewers and deity-adorned flowerpots before graduating to high-grade, wheel-spun ceramics. He talked our small group of amateurs through the stages of making a wheel-turned bowl from glacier-ground local clay, mined from the base of the Kathmandu Valley.

In practice, throwing a pot was harder than it looked, but Nara was an attentive and patient teacher, stepping in to correct wonky edges and thin out chunky pot rims. With some assistance, I managed to produce a passable, more-or-less-round pot, which was dried, fired in the village’s communal kilns, and delivered to me in Kathmandu at the end of my trip.

Favorite activity from the trip?

Being introduced to the landscape by locals was a real highlight of my visit. In Nagarkot, walking along the ridge from the village’s  Buddha Peace Park with my homestay host Anup, I got to see the countryside through Nepali eyes, with fewer tourists for company than on many of the trekking routes I’ve walked in Nepal. Indeed, the most common noise as we walked was not the clink of trekking poles but the bubbling of metal liquor stills, used by farmers to distil raksi – the local moonshine – from fermented millet.

As we stopped to sample a glass of raksi at a farm beside the path, Anup explained how close the family had come to disaster in the 2015 earthquake. "We were in the fields when the quake struck. My mother rushed home to release the cows from the cow shed, then the second tremor destroyed the cow shed and our home. But nobody in our community was hurt; we were very lucky," he told me.

Thin, gray clouds hugged the top of the ridge, so I missed out on a Himalayan view, but I got to wander through peaceful gaun (villages) with the singsong call of Nepali cuckoos for company. I also got a chance to forage for wild foods in the hedgerows. "When the cuckoo sings, the kafal fruit is ready," my guide announced enthusiastically, collecting tart, tasty, raspberry-colored berries from dangling branches by the path.

The next day, we continued walking towards Namobuddha, crossing Nagarkot’s community forest on a thick carpet of rust-red pine needles. With this being Nepal, there were swaying suspension bridges to cross, ridges to clamber down and scrambles up steep slopes; there was also a tremendous sense of peace. As we strolled, we passed sweeping vistas of quiet countryside and groups of red-robed village women, singing as they gathered fodder in the wan, pre-monsoon sunlight.

What was the thing you didn’t expect?

Making my own dinner plate from leaves and bamboo was unexpected! In Nagarkot, members of the Bastola family taught me how to assemble plates for breakfast by stitching together leaves from the sal tree using "staples" made from thin strips of bamboo. Being fully biodegradable, these eco-friendly platters had an added bonus: no dishes to wash after a tasty morning spread of aloo jeera (potatoes with cumin), curd, chapati flatbreads and Himalayan honey.

I found it a real eye-opener to how people in Nepal used to live before the arrival of single-use plastic packaging. It was gratifying to see sustainable practices being followed throughout the Community Homestay system, with trash being sorted for recycling and drinking water bottles refilled from purified communal supplies.

How did you get around?

I connected from village to village using buses, walking or cycling. Mountain biking downhill from Namobuddha to Panauti was particularly enjoyable. With a guide from community-run rental company  Cycle Station , I followed weaving country lanes and steep dirt tracks from the monastery gates, emerging into the terraced rice fields at the bottom of Panuati.

Several times, my guide assured me there would be no more hills, before we started yet another upward climb, but Nepal is a country where any mountain that isn’t capped with snow is classified as a "hill" so a mere slope carries no weight at all. On balance, the effort of the uphill sections was more than canceled out by the giddy buzz of freewheeling downhill through the terraces.

And the colors were gorgeous. On all sides, lush green hills were backed by an Impressionist wash of mottled, gray-blue clouds, and pools of water-made mirrors of the cascading rice terraces, reflecting women in crimson kurta suruwal pajamas planting rice for the coming monsoon season. I finished the ride in the courtyard of Panauti’s towering, three-tiered  Indreshwar Mahadev temple feeling thoroughly elated.

What was the most touristy thing you did?

Climbing to the hilltop stupa of  Swayambhunath on my return to Kathmandu – but touristy in Nepal isn’t the same as touristy in New York or Hong Kong. Foreign visitors to Kathmandu’s most famous shrine are outnumbered by Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, and Nepali sightseers, and everyone is outnumbered by the hordes of rhesus macaques that throng the stairway to the sacred stupa.

Swayambhunath was one of the first places I visited as a fresh-faced young backpacker in the 1990s, and it’s a place I return to every time I come back to Nepal to reconnect with that feeling of jaw-dropping wonder. Little has changed – troupes of monkeys still clamber over the architecture, pilgrims send prayer wheels clattering, prayer flags flutter in Himalayan breezes, and the watchful eyes of Buddha gaze out serenely across the valley from the stupa’s gilded spire. It’s Nepal in microcosm.

Joe traveled to Nepal on the invitation of Community Homestay Network. Lonely Planet does not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

Here is more expert advice to help you plan your trip to Nepal

11 tips for exploring Nepal on a budget More than mountains: the top things to do in Nepal When is the best time to go to Nepal?

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13 best carry-on luggage pieces 2024 - we tested them all.

Discover the best carry-on luggage for your unique travel style and needs.

The Best Carry-on Luggage

Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Things aren't always as they seem – especially when it comes to luggage. In our quest to find the best carry-on bags, we discovered that while some suitcases look good, they don't always hold up to the demands of travel. Some designs have attractive features that add bulk but not additional functionality, while others just don't live up to the hype.

To determine the best carry-on luggage, we tested dozens of bags on countless trips to find the ideal bag for every travel need. Read on to find the best option in a variety of categories, tested and reviewed by our team of experts.

Best Overall: Solgaard Carry-On Closet Original – Large

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓
• Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-on Hardside Spinner

Best Hard-sided: Away The Carry-On

Best soft-sided: samsonite solyte dlx carry-on spinner, best lightweight: july carry on light, best for international travel: delsey paris helium aero international carry-on - expandable spinner, best affordable: amazon basics 20-inch hardside spinner.

• Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner
• Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Best for Business Travel: Amazon Basics Expandable Softside Carry-On Spinner – 20.4 Inch

Best luxury: carl friedrik the carry-on pro.

• Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder–22"

Best Carry-on Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time this article was published; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors. Original photos were taken by our editors during luggage testing.)

Price:  $315 or less

Dimensions: 22.4 x 14.6 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds; 8.85 pounds with closet insert Packing capacity: 4-7 days |  Color options:  Red, purple, navy or 6 others, plus precious metals options Hard- or soft-sided:  Hard-sided   | Warranty: Lifetime

Sturdy and attractive, this suitcase is set apart from the rest by its patented and removable shelving system. This unique design feature makes packing easier, keeps items in place and removes the need for unpacking at your destination. Rather than a zippered clamshell design, the Solgaard Carry-on Closet has two latches that open with just the squeeze of two levers together; it secures with a TSA-approved lock.

The waterproof polycarbonate exterior has an aluminum frame and corner guards so this suitcase can withstand all the rigors of travel. There's also an ergonomic handle and frictionless wheels, which make it easy to maneuver on all types of terrain. What's more, this sustainable suitcase helps to repurpose 6 pounds of plastics that may have ended up in the ocean.

What our editors say:

This carry-on suitcase has it all! From the power bank (sold separately) to the super sturdy and comfortable handle to the removable closet feature – not to mention the attractive yet functional appearance – this suitcase packs a punch. I really like how easy it is to pull on a variety of surfaces, including carpet and brick. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Best Overall Runner-up: Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Price: $369.99 or less

Dimensions: 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 10 days; 45 liters | Color options: White, red, blue, green or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On Hardside Spinner is a truly well-rounded carry-on with a plethora of unique features. USB A & C ports on the outside of the bag give easy access to charging. (A power bank is not included, though the bag does have a pocket for one inside the expansion zipper.) Self-aligning magnetic wheels – a reviewer-favorite feature – allow painless travel through the airport as well as on roads, sidewalks, uneven surfaces and more. A built-in TSA zipper lock offers ultimate protection for your possessions.

Even without the features listed above, this Travelpro spinner is, at its core, a high-quality piece. The hard outer shell is ultra-strong and 100% polycarbonate; aluminum corner guards further protect your belongings. The clamshell-style suitcase has two large interior compartments along with three extra pockets, one of which is water-resistant, and the expansion zipper allows for an extra 2 inches of packing room. Plus, this carry-on is made with genuine leather trim, so you can travel in style as well as comfort.

There are some amazing features on this carry-on, but my favorite is the wheels – as someone who typically prefers hands-free travel (primarily backpacks), I found that the way this suitcase easily glides around everywhere absolutely changed my mind about wheeled luggage. Just know that since this is one of the larger bags on this list, I would still check your airline's carry-on size requirements before traveling (though it's been tested for most major domestic airlines, and it fit perfectly on Delta). – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $275 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 14.4 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.5 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 39.8 liters | Color options: Black, navy, blue gray or olive, plus 2 glossy options Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited

When it comes to hard-sided carry-on luggage , nothing beats The Carry-On by Away. The bag is lightweight yet indestructible thanks to a 100% polycarbonate exterior. Plus, you can easily wipe away most scratches with a magic eraser.

In late 2023, Away launched a new iteration of The Carry-On that somehow made it even more efficient. The most notable new features are an additional underside grab handle, three extra interior compartments, and an enhanced compression system that upholds the bag's ability to accommodate nearly a week's worth of clothing. The bag's 360-degree wheels are also slimmer than those of its predecessor for improved maneuverability. While Away has long been known for its neutral colored matte options, glossy options of this bag are now available.

The Away Carry-On is my ride or die. I've taken it on so many trips over the past five-plus years and it's still in perfect shape. I know I'll have it with me for many years to come. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content and SEO Strategist

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $199.99 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 7.1 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Black, gray, green, aqua blue or royal blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This classic soft-sided option from Samsonite offers everything you need for a smooth trip. There are three spacious pockets and a trolley strap on the outside so you can stack it on top of another rolling suitcase, as well as a USB port for charging your phone (though you'll have to purchase a battery separately).

Inside the suitcase, three more zippered pockets – including one for wet items – help you stay organized, while buckles keep the main compartment's tie-down straps out of your way while packing. This spinner can conveniently expand by 0.75 inches, but keep in mind if you're flying that overpacking may put it over your carry-on size allowance.

I've used other spinner suitcases in the past, but none of them glide as smoothly as this bag, with its 360-degree dual-spinner wheels. I also love the high-quality, lightweight material, but my favorite part is its organizational features – especially the WetPak pocket. I'd highly recommend the Samsonite SoLyte DLX for anyone who needs a trusty soft-sided carry-on for a flight; it definitely fits more than I thought it would. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $245 or less

Dimensions: 21.25 x 14.17 x 7.5 inches | Weight: 3.9 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 32 liters | Color options: Beige, light green, dark green, lilac, charcoal or 3 others Hard- or soft-sided: Hard | Warranty: Lifetime with 100-day returns

Weighing just under 4 pounds, this bag is the lightest hard-sided carry-on we found on the market. It's constructed with an extremely durable German polycarbonate shell, and the interior has two mesh zippered compartments to keep your belongings from shifting. The inner nylon lining is also resistant to water and stains. To make the suitcase easy to maneuver, there's a top carry handle, a telescoping handle and dual-spinner wheels.

I was absolutely shocked by how light this suitcase is. While some lightweight designs can be extremely flimsy, this July carry-on is very durable and holds a good amount of clothing. With compression packing cubes I was able to pack enough clothing for a week. It was extremely easy to put in the plane's overhead compartment, and the wheels rolled very smoothly for my entire journey. The only thing I noticed is that since the bag is so lightweight, the trolley bag I had was making it want to topple. Next time, I'd use a smaller tote or a north-south design to avoid that issue. – Rachael Hood

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $179.99 or less

Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 10 inches | Weight: 8.16 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 41 liters | Color options: Black, blue, red or gray Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

This DELSEY PARIS carry-on is a well-built piece of hard-sided luggage. It meets carry-on suitcase size restrictions for most international airlines and offers an easily accessible front compartment – ideal for a laptop up to 15.6 inches or other items you want to be able to grab quickly. The suitcase has a TSA lock and two spacious internal compartments for clothing, shoes and travel gear. The double-spinner wheels glide smoothly across all types of surfaces, and the handle pulls out and retracts with ease.

I was incredibly impressed by this little workhorse of a carry-on bag. There are so many different pockets and compartments within it for organization, and it fits a surprising amount of clothes, shoes and accessories. The handle and wheels make it easy to maneuver, and the glossy exterior makes it look sleek and chic. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

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Price: $80 or less

Dimensions: 21.46 x 14.76 x 9.45 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 23 liters | Color options: Black, navy blue, orange or light blue Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

The Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner is similar to many other hard-sided luggage products on the market, but it's available at a fraction of the price. The ABS shell is textured, so even if you – or luggage handlers – bang it around a bit, it does not show scuffs or scratches easily. The double-spinner wheels (a must, honestly, in today's luggage landscape) make the bag effortless to maneuver.

Inside, one side of the bag features a compression strap, while the other has a large fabric zippered closure, complete with a few organizer pockets for smaller items. Thanks to its availability on Amazon Prime, the carry-on luggage ships quickly, so it's also a great option if you need new luggage in a crunch.

This carry-on bag is a superb selection for the budget-conscious traveler. I appreciated how much I was able to get into this bag (it doesn't look huge, but it fit quite a lot), and the textured exterior really ups the durability factor. The compression straps and the interior organizer even helped me squeeze in a bit more. – Erin Evans

Best Expandability: Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner

Price: $699 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 (up to 11.5) inches | Weight: 10 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 7 days; 37-48 liters | Color options: Black, navy or olive Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

The Briggs & Riley Essential 22" Carry-on Expandable Spinner has a standout feature that other bags on this list don't: one-touch CX expansion. Exclusive to Briggs & Riley, this technology allows your bag to expand and compress in one swift motion. Simply press and pull up on the red levers found at opposite ends of the bag, and it will grow 2.5 inches. Once you've packed your belongings, push down on the buttons to compress the bag before zipping it up.

This bag also features a garment folder to reduce wrinkles in a suit or dress, as well as cinch-down garment panels to secure the clothing in place. Other convenient features include interior mesh compartments for organization, an exterior pocket for airport essentials (or even your laptop) and a signature PowerPocket where you can charge your smartphone.

While the bag is undoubtedly an investment at $700, its "simple as that" guarantee (free repairs forever, no questions asked) – plus sturdy features like impact-resistant corner guards and self-repairing zippers – means you'll have it for life.

When it comes to quality, this is the best luggage I've ever used – period. The compression/expansion system is just the icing on the cake. – Amanda Norcross

Best Underseater: CALPAK Luka Soft-Sided Mini Carry-On Luggage

Price: $165 or less

Dimensions: 16 x 14.5 x 9 inches | Weight: 5.1 pounds Packing capacity: 2-4 days; 34 liters | Color options: Chocolate, oatmeal or rose quartz Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 2-year limited

Compact and filled with useful features, this CALPAK underseater has a water-resistant exterior, a TSA-approved lock, and side and top handles for easy lifting into the overhead or pushing under the seat. There's a telescoping handle, a luggage trolley sleeve and two exterior pockets for stowing small items like your passport, boarding pass and earbuds.

On the inside, there's a padded laptop sleeve, multiple interior pockets and compression straps. For added convenience, the main panel can be secured via built-in snaps to get your laptop out while traveling (and keep your other belongings from spilling out), or you can unsnap it while packing to maximize the interior storage space.

When I'm traveling on a quick trip with my laptop, this is my go-to bag. Its compact size glides easily under the seat, and it's also compact and light enough to fit into the overhead bin even on the smallest regional planes. I love the laptop sleeve and the zippered exterior pocket for my book, earbuds and wipes. To maximize the interior space, I use compression cubes from Lug , and I'm able to squeeze in four to five outfits, a pair of shoes and daily necessities. – Rachael Hood

Price: $83 or less

Dimensions: 20.4 x 14.9 x 8.2 inches | Weight: 6.35 pounds Packing capacity: 2-3 days; 26 liters | Color options: Black, olive, gray, red, blue or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 1-year

This simple but sturdy carry-on piece from Amazon is a great option for business travelers, thanks to its front pocket for easy laptop access, smooth double-spinner wheels and TSA lock. This Amazon Basics soft-sided carry-on also features a handle on the bottom between the wheels, which makes it easy to put the bag up into and pull it out of the overhead bin. On some airplanes, it may even be small enough to fit under the seat.

The interior of the bag features one large compartment with two compression straps, plus two zippered pockets on the opposite site. The 20.4-inch option is ideal for shorter trips, but this style is available in larger sizes as well. Another bonus: It's available on Amazon Prime, so it ships quickly.

This Amazon Basics option is on the smaller side for a carry-on, but that's what makes it a solid choice for business travelers going on short trips who only need to pack a few things. The laptop pocket is easily accessible, and the handle on the bottom of the bag is super useful for hauling it out of an overhead bin. The black color is professional, and the price can't be beat. – Erin Evans

Price: $565 or less

Dimensions: 21.7 x 15 x 9.6 inches | Weight: 9.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-7 days; 43 liters | Color options: Gray/cognac, gray/chocolate, gray/black or black Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Lifetime with a 100-day trial

Constructed with premium materials, this luxury carry-on has Italian leather accents, Japanese spinner wheels and a polycarbonate exterior with an aluminum metal frame for stability. It closes via two secure latches with combination locks (rather than a zipper). There's a front laptop compartment with a smaller pocket and pen slots to keep business essentials or travel documents easy to access.

The interior has leather details, compression straps and a removable compression pad with a pocket – ideal for small items like ties, fashion jewelry or silk scarves. Travelers can also purchase an additional compression pad to have a pad on each side of the interior compartment.

This suitcase exudes luxury with its Italian leather trim and understated elegance. The design of it looks very sleek, the interior is spacious, the handle is very sturdy and the wheels glide with ease. I especially liked that the top of the suitcase is very flat, which gave my trolley bag a secure base so it wasn't moving around while I was at the airport, and the front compartment was ideal for accessing my laptop on the go. It feels very sturdy, but the only downside is it weighs more than a typical carry-on. – Rachael Hood

Best Carry-on Duffel: The North Face Rolling Thunder – 22"

Price: $270 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 14 x 8.5 inches | Weight: 7.34 pounds Packing capacity: Up to 5 days; 40 liters | Color options: Black Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The North Face's 22-inch Rolling Thunder duffel doesn't have the bells and whistles of other carry-on options, but it's a sturdy and reliable option for those who want a duffel style on wheels. The duffel has a hard-sided back panel, two wheels that can withstand various terrain and plastic bumpers for abrasion resistance. The soft-sided top of the bag is made of water-resistant Base Camp material and nylon for extra durability. There are two zippered pockets on the outside to stash small items and a mesh pocket inside for some added organization.

I brought this duffel on a trip to New Zealand, and it held up very well. The Rolling Thunder had no issues after being checked on six different flights, and the flexibility of the style allowed me to easily store it out of the way in my campervan once I had unpacked. It's definitely a simpler style, but it does its job well. Be aware, though, that this wheeled style doesn't have straps that would allow you to carry it like a duffel; it can only be rolled. – Catriona Kendall

Price: $200 or less

Dimensions: 22 x 12 x 10 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds Packing capacity: 5-10 days; 35 liters | Color options: Multiple options but color availability changes frequently Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

When it comes to hands-free and adventure travel, the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L can't be beat. This lightweight carry-on backpack comes with a sternum strap, a removable waist belt and a weight-distributing harness system, all to make for a comfortable carry (since sore shoulders can be a concern when it comes to carrying backpacks through time-consuming airport experiences).

Organization is a breeze with a top zippered pocket – perfect for storing travel documents or a Cotopaxi hip pack – and a padded laptop sleeve on the outside. Internally, you'll find two mesh compartments, one large and one subdivided, that work great with Cotopaxi packing cubes . The backpack's straps can be tucked away for more streamlined travel, and the bag even comes with a rain cover (though the Allpa is already TPU-coated to be water-resistant).

Furthermore, Cotopaxi is dedicated to sustainability : 94% of Cotopaxi products contain repurposed, recycled or responsible materials. The vibrant, one-of-a-kind Del Dia Allpa backpacks , for example, use remnant fabric.

I've taken my Cotopaxi Allpa on countless adventures and it's survived everything – wind, rain, being shoved into tiny rental cars, you name it. Besides being incredibly durable, I love how much this backpack can fit; my longest trip so far with only the Allpa 35L as my luggage has been a comfortable nine days, and that included packing bulky cold-weather gear. I just wish it had a water bottle pocket like the Allpa 42L does! – Leilani Osmundson

Also Recommended

Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner: While the Solo New York Re:Serve Carry-On Spinner is a solid (and sustainable) carry-on bag for less than $200, it doesn't offer quite enough space – especially for someone who may be traveling for longer.

Away The Aluminum Carry-On Bag: This is a well-built carry-on bag. The only downfall is that it's on the heavier side, weighing nearly 11 pounds. Away's Aluminum Carry-On is also more than twice the cost of the standard carry-on by Away, which works just as well.

Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner: This is a great soft-sided option if you're looking for a lightweight suitcase. Featuring a sleek nylon construction, a large front exterior pocket and internal zippered pockets, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner works well but isn't as lightweight as the July Carry-on Light.

Monos Carry-on Plus: It's a high-quality suitcase with a lot of internal details, but given its larger size this bag doesn't fit in the overhead compartment on multiple planes (especially regional jets). That said, if you're traveling domestically on larger planes, the Monos Carry-on Plus could be an option to consider. Or, the smaller standard Monos Carry-on could be a good option as well.

Pros and Cons of Hard-sided Luggage

Pros and cons of soft-sided luggage, frequently asked questions.

Aside from traditional rolling suitcases, the following items can be used as carry-on luggage provided they meet carry-on size limitations (which vary by airline) and fit in the overhead bin or fully under the seat (not sticking out) in front of you.

• Duffel and weekender bags:  This includes weekenders and duffel bags with wheels . Just note that wheels are included in carry-on dimension restrictions.
• Garment bags:  These are also considered carry-on baggage by most airlines. You can place your garment bag in the overhead bin, or in some cases, a small closet on the plane.
• Pet carriers:  Some airlines consider pet carriers to be carry-on luggage. Check with your chosen airline when preparing for your trip with Fido.
• Backpacks:  If your carry-on backpack fits under the seat, it will count toward your personal item allowance on most major airlines. This means you'll have the option to bring an additional bag for the overhead bin.
• Diaper bags: If you're traveling with a baby, diaper bags and other baby travel gear generally don't count toward either allowance – meaning you can bring these items in addition to your carry-on bag and personal item.

Purses , briefcases and camera bags can be carried on the plane as well, but usually aren't considered carry-on bags and are instead labeled personal items. Underseater bags – often designed specifically to fit comfortably under a plane seat – are also ideal as a personal item.

Typically, travelers can bring one carry-on bag (for the overhead bin) and one personal item (for under the seat) on the plane, free of charge.

Carry-on luggage sizes can vary by airline. Several major U.S. carriers, such as American Airlines and United, impose a 22 x 14 x 9-inch rule. If you're buying new carry-on luggage, this is a good default size to choose – especially if you fly with a variety of airlines.

For international airlines, it's often 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. To be sure about dimensions as well as any weight restrictions, see our guide to Carry-on Luggage Size & Weight by Airline . It usually doesn't matter how heavy your carry-on bag is, though some airlines do monitor the weight.

• Hard-sided: The hard-sided July Carry On Light weighs less than 4 pounds, making it one of the most lightweight carry-on bags on the market. Other lightweight carry-on bags we recommend include the hard-sided Away The Carry-On (7.5 pounds) and the Amazon 20-Inch Hardside Spinner (7.3 pounds).
• Soft-sided: If you're looking for a lightweight, soft-sided carry-on bag, consider the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner (4.8 pounds) and the Samsonite SoLyte DLX Carry-On Spinner (7.1 pounds).

Hard-sided luggage is often heavier than soft-sided luggage – but only by a few pounds. If you're planning to purchase a hard-sided carry-on bag, look for something that's made of polycarbonate or polypropylene, both of which are lightweight yet durable materials.

How We Tested

Our team tested 26 carry-on bags across several price points and on a variety of trips spanning overseas flights, weekend getaways, overnight trips and more. We traveled by car, plane, train and cruise and packed for a variety of climates and activities, from shore excursions in Mexico to rainy road trips around Iceland. For bags with wheels, we tested their maneuverability on multiple surfaces, including gravel, pavement, grass, moving walkways, cobblestone and carpet. After four months of testing, we deem these carry-on bags the best of the best for 2024.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

The following editors personally tested the luggage recommended in this article:

Erin Evans , Managing Editor: Evans loves a durable bag and also can't say no to a good deal. Considering how banged up luggage can get, her picks on this list are both well-made and affordable.

Rachael Hood , Senior Editor: Hood rarely checks a bag, yet she loves to pack a lot and pick up some new finds along her journey. She looks for a combination of durability, functionality, interior space and overall appearance.

Catriona Kendall , Associate Editor: Kendall opts for convenient and versatile carry-ons that can work well for weekend and weekslong trips alike.

Amanda Norcross , Content & SEO Strategist: Norcross has mastered the art of traveling with a carry-on bag only, but believes this is only possible with the right luggage.

Leilani Osmundson , Digital Producer: Osmundson prefers lightweight, streamlined luggage that's ideal for adventure travel.

You might also be interested in:

• What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag
• The Best Travel Insurance Companies

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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This Detangler Gives Me Sabrina Carpenter Bangs

I’ve had bangs for years, and the upkeep is constant. Most nights I have to sleep with a Velcro roller to keep them looking right . If the odds are in my favor, I’d get two days out of my bangs before I’d have to reset them . But, still, all it takes is a strong gust of wind, an odd sleeping position, or my particularly tenacious middle part to ruin all my hard work.

My only true solution was to drench my bangs in water and start again. So, a couple of times a week between hair washings , I’d find myself leaning over the sink or spritzing water onto my fringe before blowing it out again. But with just water and no product, my bangs would look dull and be tougher to style than they were freshly washed . To be honest, it was easier just to wash my hair or slick it back every other day.

Then, Drybar sent me a new detangling product. I have short, straight, thin hair, so detangler is not something I usually reach for. However, the directions on the back of the bottle caught my attention. They recommended that you “spray onto dry bangs and re-blow to freshen up your look” — detangler or not, I was curious. The first time I gave it a go, I used a very gentle spritz of detangler. Along with a quick blast of my Dyson Airwarp , it was enough to put some bounce back into my fringe, but my middle-parting persisted, and the bangs split. A few days later, I tried again. On my dry hair, I applied the product until my parting was almost wet, and the rest of my bangs lightly damp. Unlike other detanglers, there was no buildup or film feeling where I’d applied the product. Instead, the hair felt soft and freshly washed and was far easier to style than all of the times I’d used just water.

I’ve been using this for two months, and it’s taken my old water mister’s place at my bathroom sink. Instead of leaning over the sink a few times a week, one spritz and a blow-dry between hair washes keeps my bangs looking fresh. Succinctly: Until I find out what witchcraft keeps Sabrina Carpenter’s bangs in place onstage, or pick the brains of the hairstylist responsible for Jess’s fringe on New Girl , this is the best thing I’ve found for bangs upkeep since the Velcro roller .

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• Best overall
• Best for cruises
• Best for reputation
• Best for preexisting conditions
• Best for digital nomads
• Best low-cost
• Best for road trips
• How we reviewed travel insurance companies

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Travel Insurance in June 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Traveling is an adventure, a leap into the unknown, a story waiting to unfold. But every story needs a safety net, and that's where travel insurance comes in. In this guide to the best travel insurance, we'll embark on a journey to help you better understand travel insurance and uncover the benefits that make it an indispensable companion for any traveler.

Our Picks for the Best Travel Insurance Companies

Best overall: nationwide travel insurance.

• Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA
• Best for Cruises: Travel Guard
• Best Reputation:  C&F Travel Insured
• Best for Pre-existing Conditions:   Tin Leg Travel Insurance
• Best for Digital Nomads:   WorldTrips Travel Insurance
• Best Low-Cost Option:   Trawick International Travel Insurance

Best for Road Trips: Travelex Travel Insurance

How we rate travel insurance »

Compare the Best Travel Insurance Companies

The best travel insurance companies offer comprehensive coverage options for a wide range of people and needs. For this guide, we looked at coverage options, customizability, and the best companies for specific situations, such as pre-existing conditions.

Here are Business Insider's picks for the best travel insurance companies in 2024. 

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

Nationwide Travel Insurance is of the largest players in the travel insurance space, offering nearly endless options for any customer on the travel spectrum, including annual travel insurance plans which can offer frequent travelers the flexibility to "set it and forget it" on their travel insurance coverage.

Nationwide Essential also offers some of the most affordable policies in the market compared to similar plans from competitors, which makes it a great pick for just about anyone. Buyers can discuss bundling options as Nationwide also sells homeowners, auto, pet, and other insurance products. Its travel insurance quoting is just as easy as it has been with other Nationwide insurance products.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Travel Insurance Runner-Up: AXA Assistance USA

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

AXA Assistance USA  offers consumers a great option for no-stress travel insurance: low-priced plans, generous coverage limits on key categories including primary insurance on lost luggage, and up to 150% reimbursement for qualifying trip cancellations.

While add-ons are limited and rental car coverage is not included by default on cheaper plans, AXA is a perfect fit for travelers who don't plan to drive (or who already hold a travel credit card with rental car coverage), and don't need any additional bells and whistles.

Read our AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance review here.

Best for Cruises: AIG Travel Guard

Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost and trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the cost, for all three plan levels
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR covers up to 75% of total trip costs (maximum of $112,500 on some plans) 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Medical coverage of up to $500,000 and evacuation of up to $1,000,000 per person
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes COVID coverage 
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Above average baggage loss and delay benefits
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Premiums may run slightly higher than competitors

Travel Guard is a well-established and highly rated name in the travel insurance industry. It offers three main coverage options to choose from, and in general its policies have above-average coverage for baggage loss and baggage delays, plus high medical evaluation coverage limits.

• Trip cancellation coverage for up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage for up to 150% of the trip cost
• Preexisting medical conditions exclusions waiver must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment
• Annual travel insurance plan and Pack N' Go plan (for last-minute trips) available

Travel Guard is well-known insurance provider, and a great fit for travelers who want to ensure that they can get their money back in the event of canceled or interrupted travel plans.

While the company's policies can be pricey compared to its competitors, the high medical and evacuation limits make AIG a solid choice for older travelers who value peace of mind and simplicity over highly customizable plans that may be bolstered with medical upgrades.

Read our AIG Travel Guard review here.

Best for Reputation: C&F Travel Insured

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 2 major plans including CFAR coverage on the more expensive option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancellation for job loss included as a covered reason for trip cancellation/interruption (does not require CFAR coverage to qualify)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Frequent traveler reward included in both policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million in medical evacuation coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is only $100,000
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews on claims processing indicate ongoing issues
• C&F's Travel Insured policies allow travelers customize travel insurance to fit their specific needs. Frequent travelers may benefit from purchasing an annual travel insurance plan, then adding on CFAR coverage for any portions of travel that may incur greater risk.

While every travel insurance company has negative reviews about its claims process, C&F Travel Insured 's claims process has a consistent stream of positive reviews. One customer wrote that C&F processed a claim within 48 hours. Additionally, C&F regularly responds to customer reviews within one business week, making reviews a consistent way to reach the company.

Additionally, in C&F's fine print, it mentions that any claims that take more than 30 days to pay out will begin to accrue interest at 9% APY.

C&F's reputation isn't the only thing to speak highly of. It offers an array of add-ons uncommon in the travel insurance industry, such as Interruption for Any Reason insurance and CFAR coverage for annual plans. C&F also offers discounts for children on its Protector Edge plan and free coverage on its Protector plan.  

Read our C&F Travel Insured review here. 

Best for Pre-Existing Conditions: Tin Leg Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Policy coverage includes most pre-existing health conditions
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical and evacuation amounts for peace of mind
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. COVID coverage included by default on all insurance plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers a wide range of plans for various budgets and travel needs
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some plans offer CFAR, “cancel for work reasons,” financial default, and unemployment coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited add-on coverage options
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage loss and delay coverage is low compared to competitors

Tin Leg travel insurance offers eight travel insurance plans to meet the unique needs of travelers.

• Tin Leg was founded in 2014 by the travel insurance industry experts at Squaremouth. Designed to meet the most common needs of travelers, these policies offer comprehensive Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits, and a range of Emergency Medical and Medical Evacuation limits.

Tin Leg Travel Insurance is a great fit for travelers with medical issues in particular. Seven of Tin Leg's eight travel plans include coverage for pre-existing conditions as long as you purchase your policy within 15 days of your initial trip payment.

Thanks to coverage for pre-existing medical conditions as well as for potential COVID-19 infection while traveling, this company offers some of the best financial investment options for travelers who are or will be exposed to higher health risks and issues.

Read our Tin Leg Travel Insurance review here.

Best for Digital Nomads: WorldTrips Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable base plans that can be customized with add-ons including rental car, pet care, hunting and fishing, and vacation rental coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Insurance plans available for international student travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage benefit that kicks in after just five hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Pre-existing conditions waiver can be purchased within 21 days of initial trip payment
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Lower medical, evacuation and accidental death limits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited, secondary baggage loss coverage although baggage protection can be upgraded at a low cost
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc.

WorldTrips has been a reputable travel insurance provider for more than 20 years. Unsurprisingly, it boasts an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and positive reviews from thousands of customers.

• Travel medical insurance (Premium, Group, Annual, and International Student options)
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Trip protection insurance

WorldTrips Travel Insurance has affordable premiums, highly customizable add-ons, and generous coverage for core categories of travel insurance. All this makes it a great option for digital nomads, students studying abroad and backpackers.

However, travelers should keep in mind that plans are not particularly flexible, and coverage amounts are limited unless you plan ahead to pay for the areas and amounts that you need.

Read our WorldTrips Travel Insurance review here.

Best for Affordability: Trawick International Travel Insurance

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Useful for adventurous travelers headed to higher-risk destinations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable plans with varying levels of coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. 10-day free look option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage loss replacement policy
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trip delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Some policies allow a CFAR add-on
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million medical evacuation coverage limit
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Baggage and trip delay coverages don’t kick in until after the 12-hour mark
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. International student policies available for temporary stints abroad
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Complaints about claims not being paid or involving an intermediary to resolve claims

Trawick International travel insurance offers plans customized to diverse travelers' needs. We look at coverage options, claims processing, pricing, and other important factors for savvy travelers.

• Travel medical insurance
• Trip protection and cancellation
• International student insurance
• Visitor medical insurance (for traveling to the US)

Trawick International Travel Insurance is another insurance provider with robust medical travel insurance  that can help higher-risk and anxious travelers find peace of mind while on the road. This company offers one of the most generous medical evacuation policies in the market, although travelers will need to remember to add on rental car coverage if they need it.

Read our Trawick Travel Insurance review here.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Options to cover sports equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Option to increase medical coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can cancel up to 48 hours before travel when CFAR option is purchased
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Affordable coverage for budget-conscious travelers
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Includes generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional "adventure sports" bundle available for riskier activities
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only two insurance plans to choose from
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage maximum is low at up to $50,000 per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Pricier than some competitors with lower coverage ceilings
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Some competitors offer higher medical emergency coverage

Travelex travel insurance is one of the largest travel insurance providers in the US providing domestic and international coverage options. It offers a basic, select, and America option. Read on to learn more.

• Optional CFAR insurance available with the Travel Select plan
• Trip delay insurance starting at $500 with the Travel Basic plan
• Emergency medical and dental coverage starting at $15,000

Travelex Travel Insurance  offers three plans:

• Travel Basic
• Travel Select
• Travel America

The Travelex America plan is meant for trips limited to the U.S., but it has the highest coverage limits in many areas compared to its other programs. If you're flying somewhere, the lost baggage limits are higher. Its natural strengths shine for road trippers, though. Travelex America adds coverage for roadside service and rental car coverage for unexpected accidents. It also covers pets should you be involved in an accident while on the road.

While your standard auto insurance does extend to car rentals within the U.S. for a limited time, any accident would affect future rates. Travelex would eliminate the risk of reporting to your auto insurance provider for minor incidents within its purview.

Read our Travelex Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Travel Insurance

Why travel insurance is a must-have.

The unpredictable nature of traveling – from flight cancellations to medical emergencies – can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. Travel insurance acts as a personal safeguard, ensuring that unexpected events don't drain your wallet or ruin your trip.

Understanding Different Types of Travel Insurance

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal. From single-trip travel insurance policies to annual travel insurance plans , from minimal coverage to comprehensive protection, understanding the spectrum of options is your first step in finding the right fit for your journey.

Key Features to Look for in Travel Insurance Coverage

Travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Imagine falling ill in a foreign country; daunting, right? A robust travel insurance plan ensures you don't have to worry about how much emergency medical care while traveling will cost, even in the most remote corners of the globe. This coverage will often come in tandem with emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Benefits

Life is full of surprises, some less pleasant than others. Trip cancellation and interruption coverage ensures that you're not left out of pocket if unforeseen circumstances force you to cancel or cut your trip short. You may also look for cancel for any reason and interruption for any reason options, which will reimburse you for a percentage of your nonrefundable fees, but expands the covered reasons you can cancel a trip. You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance companies here.

Coverage for Personal Belongings and Baggage Loss

Losing your belongings is more than an inconvenience; it's losing a piece of your world. Insurance that covers personal belongings and baggage loss ensures that you're compensated for your loss, helping you to rebound and continue your adventure.

Support and Assistance Services

In times of trouble, having a lifeline can make all the difference. Look for insurance that offers 24/7 support and assistance services, giving you peace of mind that help is just a phone call away. Also, check websites that field customer reviews like Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, and InsureMyTrip , to see how well a company responds to customer requests.

Choosing the Best Travel Insurance

Reputation and reliability of the travel insurance provider.

A provider's reputation is not just about being well-known; it's about reliability, customer satisfaction, and the ability to deliver on promises. Researching and choosing a reputable provider is a cornerstone in ensuring your safety and satisfaction.

Understanding the Policy's Fine Print

The devil is in the details, and understanding the fine print of what your travel insurance policy covers is crucial. Be aware of coverage limits, exclusions, and the process for filing a claim to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

In the age of information, customer reviews and feedback are goldmines of insight. Learn from the experiences of others to gauge the reliability and customer service of the insurance provider you're considering. While the ratings are important, you should also look at whether or not a company responds to customer complaints.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Insurance

Knowing your policy inside out.

Familiarize yourself with every aspect of your policy – what it covers, what it doesn't, how to file a claim, and who to contact in an emergency. Being informed means being prepared. 

Steps to Take When a Problem Arises

If you face an issue during your travels, knowing the immediate steps to take can make all the difference. Keep important contacts and your policy details handy, and remember, your insurance provider is there to assist you.

How to Pick the Best Travel Insurance Company for You

There isn't a one-size-fits-all policy that works perfectly for every traveler. Young, healthy solo travelers can opt for much cheaper plans that offer bare-bones coverage, while families juggling complex itineraries will do best by investing in a robust policy that can help defray any costs associated with lost baggage, delayed transportation or other trip-impeding obstacles.

That being said, you can't go wrong with a travel insurance provider that boasts a reputable history and offers a wide range of customizable plans. In some cases, you may be comparing plans that are only a few dollars' apart from each other. In such situations, you should generally opt for the insurance company that offers the strongest customer service. It's also worth considering whether or not the travel insurance provider has been reviewed by other travelers with similar itineraries to your own. 

An insurance aggregator like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth is one of the best tools for searching travel insurance policies. Once you input the specifics of your travel itinerary, you'll be able to see hundreds of search results to compare the ones that catch your eye. If the options are too overwhelming, use the filters to the left of your search page to eliminate as many irrelevant plans as possible.

How We Reviewed the Best Travel Insurance Companies

To come up with our list of the best travel insurance companies, we evaluated each insurer based on the following factors:

Guide Methodology: What We Considered

Policy Types

Travel insurance is essential, but often underused partly because people aren't getting what they want. Business Insider's 2023 travel study showed 10.65% of travelers surveyed bought cancel for any reason insurance. Cost may be a factor, but in many cases, the coverage is more affordable than you might think. Regardless, companies must offer a diverse range of coverage options. We award five stars to companies offering all standard coverages and additional options like pet and sports equipment protection.

Our 2023 travel study indicated the majority of purchases were made through the travel provider (ex: flight protection insurance when you're purchasing your airline tickets). While these may be sufficient for some customers, we look for companies offering a more comprehensive range of services.

According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, the average cost of travel insurance will be between 4% and 8% of total travel expenses. Anything beyond that price point should include additional benefits beyond the standard inclusions, such as CFAR protection or upgraded medical coverage. Anything below that 4% threshold may leave you lacking important or sufficient coverage in an emergency.

Convenience and Flexibility

Whether you're an infrequent traveler or a suitcase warrior, a good travel insurance company should have you covered. In many cases, you might not even have to talk to a person in order to purchase your policy.

Many people think of travel insurance in context with specific trips, but most of these top contenders sell both single-trip and multi-trip policies, also known as annual travel insurance. Some companies also offer plans specifically designed for cruisers, students abroad, and business travelers. (Read our guide to the best cruise travel insurance companies for more details.) Finally, all of these providers offer multiple options for getting the specific areas and amounts of coverage that you want.

Claims Handling

Most travelers never have a large claim. Premiums are low, and it provides peace of mind for the just in case situations. So they leave reviews based on their reduced stress levels. But what happens if you lose your luggage or have to stay a few extra days due to an unexpected accident? Will your insurance carrier cover your claim without all the hassle? We check real customer reviews to sort this out for you.

Ease of Use and Support

When purchasing, during your trip, and throughout the claims process, you may need extra support. Does the company have a 24/7 help line? Does it have an online or mobile system allowing you to self-manage? Essentially, what are the options when you need help? We look at the big picture to evaluate the average customer experience with each company.

You can read our full insurance rating methodology for even more details.

Best Travel Insurance FAQs

There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for every traveler. Determine the benefits that are most important to you, like baggage delay coverage, medical coverage, and trip delay coverage, then look for a company with solid customer ratings, especially when it comes to processing claims.

Travel insurance will pay out if you experience a covered event, such as a travel delay or delayed or lost baggage. If you're looking to get travel insurance for a specific reason, such as needing to potentially cancel your trip due to work reasons, make sure your policy will cover you in that situation before purchasing it. You should also check customer reviews to see other travelers' claims experiences, as it varies wildly from company to company.

The average cost of travel insurance is 4% to 8% of your total trip cost, so it could vary widely depending on where you're traveling and the length of your trip. Your age, the number of people in your group, and other factors can also influence how much you'll pay.

Most comprehensive travel insurance policies include travel medical coverage that can come in handy if an emergency occurs and you need medical evacuation. Some travel insurance plans offer more specialized coverage for travelers with pre-existing conditions , so shop around if medical coverage is a top priority for you. 

$100,000 should be a sufficient medical coverage limit for travel insurance. If you're planning on doing extreme sports or anything particularly risky on your trip, you may want to increase your coverage level. A high medical coverage limit is especially useful when you're purchasing cruise travel insurance, since medical evacuations are more involved at sea.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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