A travel insurance policy can ensure you're reimbursed if you need to nix your plans, but only for certain reasons — like an injury, illness, or a death in the family.
A Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policy lifts those restrictions, though, allowing you to scrap your flight and other arrangements for any grounds.
Find what CFAR travel insurance covers, how much it costs and its benefits and limitations.
What is CFAR travel insurance?
That big destination wedding was called off. You and your vacation buddy got into a fight. It's expected to rain every day of your beach trip.
A traditional travel insurance policy won't reimburse you if you cancel your plans for any of these reasons.
But a Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade enables travelers to nix their plans regardless of the reason. That peace of mind makes it a popular option with some travelers.
You'll pay a premium for this benefit — as much as 40% more than a traditional policy. And you won't get 100% of your money back, either: Most plans refund between 50% and 75% of non-refundable, pre-paid trip expenses.
In addition, you can't wait until the last minute to add CFAR coverage or to use it: Most companies require you to add it to your plan within 14 and 21 days of your initial trip deposit and only allow you to cancel 48 hours before departure.
Is CFAR insurance worth it?
If you're confident about your travel plans, CFAR coverage may not be worth the price. But if you're nervous about an unexpected turn of events not being covered by your policy, adding CFAR coverage ensures a portion of your trip costs will be refunded.
It can be especially useful if:
- You've booked a long or expensive trip
- You have a fear of flying
- You have a chronic medical condition that may flare up
- You're concerned about an epidemic outbreak
- Your workload is unpredictable
- You're unsure about the political situation
- You're concerned about getting your passport or visa in time
- Your relationship with your travel partner is touch-and-go
Best CFAR travel insurance plans
If you're considering getting a CFAR travel insurance policy, we've found some standouts in the space.
Allianz
Allianz Travel Insurance
Policy highlights
Single-trip and multi-trip/annual policies and a rental car plan. OneTrip Prime and Premier plans include coverage for one child 17 or younger when accompanying a covered adult.
Cancel For Any Reason coverage
Reimburses 80% of nonrefundable trip costs if you cancel at least 48 hours before departure.
Pre-existing condition waiver
Included if policy is purchased within 14 days of initial deposit
Read our review of Allianz Travel Insurance
Allianz's CFAR benefit reimburses 80% of nonrefundable trip costs, higher than almost any other carrier in the industry. And Allianz includes free coverage for a child under 17 when you buy an adult policy.
Seven Corners
Seven Corners Travel Insurance
Cost
The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote
Policy highlights
Policies provide missed and delayed tour/cruise connection coverage. Cancel for any reason coverage and pre-existing conditions waiver are also available if you buy your plan within the specified time. ***CFAR and IFAR are subject to certain eligibility criteria and are not available in all states
24/7 assistance available
Yes
Seven Corners gives you up to 20 days after your initial trip deposit to purchase travel insurance, which is more flexibility than most competitors. The company also offers Interruption For Any Reason coverage, which can help if you have to cut your trip short.
Faye
- $2,100 per person trip delay coverage after six hours
- 100% digital claims process
- Can add coverage for pet care and vacation rental damage
- Only one plan is available
- Rates are higher than some competitors
Faye offers online quotes in minutes and has a CFAR policy that can reimburse 75% of non-refundable travel expenses. Plus, the company usually resolves claims in just 48 hours.
CFAR travel insurance FAQs
How much is CFAR insurance?
A standard travel insurance policy costs between 4% and 10% of your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs. CFAR coverage bumps that up by about 40% or 50%.
Do I have to give a reason for canceling with a CFAR policy?
With a CFAR policy, you typically don't need to give a reason for canceling your plans. You can cancel for any reason and still be refunded a portion of your non-refundable trip costs.
How late can I add CFAR coverage to my travel insurance?
Most providers that offer CFAR coverage require you to upgrade within 14 to 21 days of making your first deposit on your trip.
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