Learn more: 7 best travel insurance companies of 2026What is travel insurance, and why do you need it? When to buy travel insuranceThe best time to buy travel insurance is usually 10 to 21 days after you make your first nonrefundable trip payment. When is it too late to buy travel insurance? Special scenarios for buying travel insuranceThe best time to buy travel insurance is shortly after your first trip payment. Read more: Cruise travel insurance: How to protect your trip before you sailDoes it cost more if you buy travel insurance early?