I have a world-wide travel rider on Norwegian National health care to provide conditions at same standard as Norway anywhere in the world, and cover evacuation to nearest if standards are not equal. Normally I wouldn’t buy this, but it’s only $100/year.

ISIC carries some basic insurance—medical reimburseable up to $5000 USD last I checked.

Otherwise, good planning is the best insurance IMHO.

You might already have some coverage through your credit card or health plan. Luggage lost by airline is compensated by airline (by weight, so always take valuables in your carry-on!). What are your concerns?

It depends on what you want your insurance for, really. Most people buy travel insurance for their hotel/vacation rental trips in case something bad happens and they can’t go— then they won’t be out all that money. Same with airline tickets. But if you’re backpacking it’s not as critical unless you are carrying something valuable.

Unless you are talking about medical insurance…? If you are, I would recommend that.

I bought a travel insurance (medical), cost me an arm and a leg, and though I didn’t use it, the peace of mind is priceless. It’s one of those things that you buy hoping you won’t need it, just in case.

I agree with Jester’s comment. Travel Insurance for any potential health related issues is important so that you have a peace of mind when you travel.

Regardless if you ever use the insurance, it helps to have one less thing to worry about when you are overseas and in a foreign land!

I’ve a trip planned for this summer to europe and I hesitated forking over the money for travel insurance. It’s hard for me to pay for something I may not have to use. There are a number of websites out there that help with comparing different agencies. I used quotetravelinsurance.com. You can get a good package for around $100 that covers pretty much everything. Although I hope I don’t have to put it to use, it does put my mind at ease knowing I’ll be covered if some freak thing happens.