What to Do Before Traveling When You Have Medicare — Including Foreign Travel

Travel in this season of life is one of the great rewards of experience and freedom. Whether you’re visiting family across the country or dreaming of an international adventure, it’s important to understand how Medicare works before you go—especially once you leave the United States.

A little planning now can save you stress, confusion, and unexpected costs later.

1. Understand Medicare Coverage Inside the U.S.

If you have Original Medicare (Parts A and B), you’re covered anywhere in the United States as long as the provider accepts Medicare. This includes:

• All 50 states

• Washington, D.C.

• U.S. territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, etc.)

  
  

That means road trips, domestic flights, and extended stays within the U.S. are generally straightforward from a coverage standpoint.

2. Know That Medicare Usually Does Not Cover Foreign Travel

This is where many travelers are surprised.

In most cases, Medicare does not cover healthcare outside the United States. There are a few rare exceptions (such as emergencies near the U.S. border or while traveling between Alaska and another state), but for practical purposes, you should assume no international coverage unless you’ve arranged it separately.

If you have:

• Medicare Advantage (Part C) – Some plans offer limited worldwide emergency coverage, but details vary widely.

• Medigap (Supplemental Insurance) – Certain plans include foreign travel emergency coverage, typically covering 80% of emergency care costs up to a lifetime limit.

  
  

Never assume—always confirm.

3. Call Your Plan Before Traveling (Especially Abroad)

Before booking or departing, call your plan and ask:

• Am I covered for emergencies outside the U.S.?

• What qualifies as an emergency?

• Is there a reimbursement process if I pay upfront?

• Are there coverage limits or deductibles?

  
  

Write down the answers or request them in writing. This is one of the most important steps you can take.

4. Strongly Consider Travel Medical Insurance

If you’re traveling internationally, travel medical insurance is essential. These policies are designed specifically for situations Medicare doesn’t cover and typically include:

• Emergency doctor and hospital care abroad

• Emergency medical evacuation

• Coverage for short-term trips at a reasonable cost

  
  

For cruises, remote destinations, or longer stays, evacuation coverage alone can be worth the peace of mind.

5. Prepare Your Medications Carefully

Before you leave:

• Refill prescriptions early if possible

• Bring medications in original labeled containers

• Pack them in your carry-on luggage

• Carry a written list of medications and dosages

  
  

If traveling internationally, check whether any medications are restricted in your destination country.

6. Carry the Right Documents (Paper and Digital)

Have copies of:

• Your Medicare or Advantage card

• Medigap or travel insurance information

• Emergency contact numbers

• Your primary doctor’s contact information

• A basic medical history summary

  
  

Keep one set with you and another accessible digitally.

7. Research Healthcare at Your Destination

For foreign travel especially:

• Identify nearby hospitals or clinics

• Learn how emergency services work locally

• Know how to contact your travel insurance provider from abroad

  
  

A few minutes of research can make all the difference in an emergency.

8. Don’t Let Medicare Concerns Stop You From Traveling

Medicare was designed primarily for care within the U.S., but that doesn’t mean international travel is off the table. With the right supplemental coverage and preparation, many people travel abroad confidently and safely well into retirement.

The goal isn’t to worry—it’s to be prepared. Once you’ve done that, you’re free to focus on what really matters: discovery, connection, and enjoying the unscripted years.