- Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance Overview: Founded in 2014 and backed by Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway, this company offers trusted travel insurance with a focus on speedy claims and strong financial stability.
- Main Benefits of BHTP: It provides industry-leading claims speed, family-friendly pricing with free kid coverage, fixed benefit payouts, and complimentary services like 24/7 emergency assistance and concierge support.
- Coverage Options and Plans: BHTP offers a variety of plans, including budget-friendly ExactCare plans with varying medical limits, and specialty plans like LuxuryCare, WaveCare, and AdrenalineCare tailored for different travel needs.
- Claims Speed and Customer Satisfaction: With claims processed up to five times faster than industry norms through electronic systems and a mobile app, BHTP is highly rated for quick, efficient claims handling, although app stability can be a concern.
- Ideal Travelers for BHTP: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers, families, and adventure sports enthusiasts who value quick claims, strong financial backing, and coverage for short domestic or international trips.
- Get a quote at Squaremouth.com and compare rates from Berkshire Hathaway travel insurance.
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance Overview
Shopping for travel insurance isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of a good time. But Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) has made it feel much less painful. Backed by the financial might of Warren Buffett’s empire and sporting an A++ rating from AM Best, this company has serious credibility. Their claims process is genuinely impressive, with payments up to 5 times faster than the industry average. That said, the lower medical coverage limits on their budget plans might leave international travelers wanting more.
Overall, we rated Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance 9.0 out of 10, landing towards the top of our list of the best travel insurance companies.
Who is Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance Best For?
Budget-conscious travelers taking domestic trips or short international getaways who prioritize fast claims processing over maximum medical coverage. Also great for families looking to save with free kid coverage, and adventure seekers who need specialized AdrenalineCare protection.
Berkshire Hathaway Strengths
- Industry-leading claims speed with “pic-and-click” mobile filing and same-day electronic payments.
- Exceptional financial backing (A++ from AM Best, the highest rating possible)
- Family-friendly pricing with free coverage for up to two kids under 18 on select plans
Berkshire Hathaway Weaknesses
- Low medical coverage limits on entry-level plans ($15K-$50), which may be inadequate for international travel
- Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage is only available on the premium LuxuryCare plan.
- The mobile app has stability issues and feels outdated compared to competitors.
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) is an exceptionally strong choice for travelers who prioritize financial security and industry-leading claims efficiency. Backed by the financial power of Warren Buffett’s empire (Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company) and sporting the highest possible AM Best rating of A++ (Superior), the company offers unmatched credibility and peace of mind that claims will be paid. Furthermore, BHTP has made their claims process their central promise, with a motto of "Claims is Our Product." They consistently deliver, boasting payments up to five times faster than the industry average, often utilizing same-day electronic payments through their BHTP Burst system, and simplifying the process with "pic-and-click" mobile filing.
A second compelling reason to choose BHTP is its innovative approach to benefits and overall value, particularly for families and specific travel styles. Their ExactCare plans offer a popular "Kids Covered Free" feature for up to two children under 18, a benefit offered by only a handful of travel insurers. For those seeking niche coverage, the company provides specialized plans like AdrenalineCare for high-risk adventure sports and WaveCare for cruisers. Additionally, BHTP offers fixed benefit payouts for certain covered events (like a $500 payout for lost luggage), which eliminates the typical hassle of haggling over receipts and provides quick, predictable reimbursement.
Finally, the company's commitment to customer experience extends beyond payment speed to include unique, complimentary services. Every policy includes a 24/7/365 Emergency Assistance line and complimentary concierge services, which can assist with everything from restaurant reservations and securing event tickets to finding a local doctor or interpreter, all at no extra cost. While their entry-level medical limits are a weakness for extended international travel, BHTP's overall affordability, the availability of pre-existing conditions coverage (if purchased early), and the "15-Day Free Look" money-back guarantee make it a solid, value-driven option for domestic or short-haul international trips where fast, secure claims processing is the top priority.
- Industry-leading claims speed.
- Exceptional financial backing (A++).
- Budget-friendly pricing.
- Kids are covered free on select plans.
- Fixed benefit payouts (no receipt haggling).
Get quotes and compare Berkshire Hawthaway prices with Squaremouth.com
Company Overview
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection launched in May 2014 after acquiring MyAssist and Insure America, entering the travel insurance market with a clear mission: to simplify an industry that had become unnecessarily complicated. Their motto, “Claims is Our Product,” tells you exactly where their priorities lie. Led by President Dean Sivley, the company has grown from a startup concept into a significant player in the travel insurance space.
| Company Information | Data |
| Year Founded | May 2014 |
| Headquarters | Stevens Point, Wisconsin |
| President | Dean S. Sivley |
| Parent Company | Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (BHSI) |
| Availability | US residents traveling worldwide |
| Estimated Revenue | ~$98.6 million |
| Employees | ~281 |
The company expanded significantly in 2022 with the acquisition of Alleghany (property, casualty, and reinsurance services), formed an underwriting partnership with Canadian insurer soNomad, and opened an office in Brussels, Belgium, to serve European territories. Their founder, John M. Noel, previously founded Travel Guard International, which provides some context for the level of industry experience behind this operation.
Financial Strength & Solvency
This is where BHTP absolutely crushes it. When you’re buying travel insurance, you want to know the company will actually be around to pay your claim. Being backed by the Berkshire Hathaway name (yes, that Warren Buffett company) gives this provider unmatched financial credibility in the travel insurance space.
| Strength Measurement | Data |
| AM Best Rating | A++ (Superior) |
| Financial Stability Score | 10/10 |
| Primary Underwriter | BHSI Company |
| Additional Underwriter | National Indemnity Co. (NICO) |
| Years in Business | 11 years (since 2014) |
The A++ rating from AM Best is the highest possible rating in the insurance industry, indicating “Superior” financial strength. This means BHTP has an exceptional ability to meet ongoing insurance obligations. When you combine this with the backing of National Indemnity Company (NICO), which also holds an A++ rating, you’re looking at one of the most financially secure travel insurance providers available. For anxious travelers who lose sleep worrying about whether their insurer will actually pay out, this should put those fears to rest.
Coverage Options
BHTP offers seven distinct plans designed for different travel styles and budgets. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, they’ve created specialized products that actually make sense for how people travel today.
Core Plans
- ExactCare Value: The budget-friendly option with $15,000 medical coverage. Best for domestic trips where medical costs are less of a concern.
- ExactCare: Mid-tier plan with $50,000 medical coverage and the popular “Kids Covered Free” feature (up to 2 children under 18 per adult).
- ExactCare Extra: The most comprehensive ExactCare option with flight tracking, automatic claims processing, and $75,000 emergency medical coverage.
Specialty Plans
- LuxuryCare: Premium protection with $100,000 medical coverage, $1,000,000 evacuation, and the only plan offering CFAR coverage. Covers trips up to $100,000 per person.
- WaveCare: Explicitly built for cruisers with $75,000 medical, $750,000 evacuation, plus unique benefits like cruise ship disablement coverage and cruise line bankruptcy protection.
- AdrenalineCare: For the thrill-seekers doing activities most insurers won’t touch, like skydiving, rock climbing, and scuba diving. Includes $750,000 evacuation coverage.
- AirCare: Flight-only coverage for travelers who just want protection against delays, cancellations, and lost luggage. Does not include medical coverage.
- ExactCare Lite: Post-departure plan designed for road trips. Covers hotel bookings, attraction passes, and medical emergencies. Does not cover flying or cruising.
Coverage Limits & Flexibility
| Coverage | ExactCare Value | ExactCare | LuxuryCare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Medical | $15,000 | $50,000 | $100,000 |
| Medical Evacuation | $300,000 | $500,000 | $1,000,000 |
| Trip Cancellation | 100% Trip Cost | 100% Trip Cost | Up to $100,000 |
| Trip Interruption | 100% | 150% | 150% |
| CFAR Available | No | No | Yes |
| Kids Free | No | Yes | No |
Common Exclusions
Like most travel insurers, BHTP won’t cover everything. Here’s what’s typically excluded:
- Pre-existing conditions (unless you purchase within 15 days of your initial trip deposit)
- Adventure activities (unless covered by AdrenalineCare)
- Incidents while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Named storms (after they’re named)
- Travel to countries under government advisories
- Mental or nervous disorders (unless resulting in hospitalization)
- Trips less than 100 miles from your primary residence (for evacuation coverage)
Affordability & Value
Here’s where BHTP really shines for budget-conscious millennials. Their travel medical insurance policies average just $21.21, which is literally less than what you’d pay for a mediocre airport sandwich. For comprehensive coverage, including trip cancellation, expect to pay an average of $183.52, which remains competitive compared to industry standards.
| Coverage Type | Average Premium |
|---|---|
| Travel Medical (Non-Cancellation) | ~$21 |
| Comprehensive (with Cancellation) | ~$184 |
| AirCare (Flight-Only) | Starting at ~$26 |
| LuxuryCare (Premium) | Starting at ~$75+ |
As a general rule, expect to pay about 8-10% of your total prepaid trip cost for comprehensive coverage. The value proposition is strongest for travelers who prioritize claims speed and financial security over having the absolute highest coverage limits. If you need maximum medical coverage for international travel, you’ll want to spring for LuxuryCare or consider competitors with higher base limits.
Available Discounts
- Kids Covered Free: Up to 2 children under 18 covered at no extra cost on ExactCare plans
- 15-Day Money Back Guarantee: Full refund if you change your mind within 15 days (before trip departure)
Customer Service
Contact Method | Information |
General Customer Service | Mon-Fri, 7 am-7 pm CST |
Claims Line | 7 days/week, 5 am-11 pm CST |
Emergency Assistance | 24/7/365 |
Phone Number | 844-411-2487 |
Support Channels
BHTP offers refreshingly modern communication options:
- Phone support
- Email ([email protected])
- Text messaging
- Web chat
- Twitter and Facebook Messenger
- Mobile app
Concierge Services
One standout feature that sets BHTP apart is its complimentary concierge services included with all policies. This isn’t just for emergencies. They can help with restaurant reservations, securing concert tickets, golf tee times, finding a doctor, telephone interpreter services, and even replacing lost eyeglasses. It’s the kind of white-glove treatment you’d expect from a luxury service, but it’s included at no extra cost.
Online & Digital Experience
The BHTP website (bhtp.com) is clean, straightforward, and gets you from quote to coverage in just a couple of minutes. Plan information is presented in clear, easy-to-understand language, free of excessive insurance jargon. The quote process asks only essential questions: destination, travel method, dates, trip cost, number of travelers, and ages. You can easily compare plans side-by-side before purchasing.
Mobile App
This is where things get a little disappointing. The BHTP mobile app (available on iOS and Android) has the right features on paper, but execution is mixed. Users can initiate claims, upload documentation, check claim status, and select payment methods. However, app reviews consistently mention stability issues, crashes, and difficulty loading policies. One telling review captured the sentiment perfectly: “The app is terrible – it just doesn’t work. Constantly crashes, says it can’t load policy, etc. The company is FANTASTIC. Don’t let the app dissuade you.”
Digital Tools
- Online Claims Filing: Full capability to submit claims through the web portal
- “Pic-and-Click” Claims: Snap a photo of documentation to start most claims instantly
- Flight Tracking: Automatic tracking on ExactCare Extra that can process delay claims automatically
- Electronic Payment: Direct deposit option for same-day claim payments
- Policy Document Access: Available through the web portal and app
Customer Satisfaction & Reputation
Organization | Rating |
BBB Rating | A+ (Accredited) |
Squaremouth Rating | 4.29/5 (900+ reviews) |
Common Praises
Customers consistently praise the speed of claims processing, ease of filing, and the helpfulness of customer service representatives. The “pic-and-click” mobile claims feature gets particularly positive feedback for its convenience.
Common Criticisms
The most frequent complaints involve claim denials based on policy definitions (particularly around “family member” definitions for death-related cancellations) and frustration with communication during the claims review process. Some customers report feeling blindsided when claims are denied for reasons they didn’t anticipate based on their reading of the policy. This underscores the importance of reading the fine print carefully before purchasing.
Claims Process
This is BHTP’s bread and butter. Their entire brand identity revolves around “Claims is Our Product,” and they essentially deliver on that promise. The company claims to pay claims 5 times faster than the industry average, and customer feedback generally supports this claim.
Filing Methods
- Online Portal: Full claim submission with document upload at bhtp.com/claims
- Mobile App: “Pic-and-click” filing with photo documentation
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 844-411-2487 (Option 4)
Required Documentation
To file most claims, you’ll need: a trip invoice showing travel dates and costs; proof of payment (credit card or bank statements); proof of any refunds received; and cancellation penalty documentation from the travel provider. Medical claims require signed patient authorization to release medical information and attending physician documentation.
Payment Speed
The standout feature here is BHTP Burst, their electronic payment system. If your claim is approved and you opt for electronic payment, you can receive funds the same day. Even for more complex claims requiring review, the timeline is generally faster than that of competitors. Flight delay claims through ExactCare Extra can be filed and paid automatically via their flight-tracking system, which is genuinely impressive.
Unique Features & Differentiators
Standout Benefits
- Fixed Benefit Payouts: Unlike traditional insurers that reimburse actual expenses, BHTP pays fixed amounts for covered events. Lost luggage? Get $500. Tarmac delay? Get $1,000. This eliminates haggling over receipts.
- Automatic Flight Tracking: ExactCare Extra monitors your flights and automatically creates and pays delay claims without you lifting a finger.
- Complimentary Concierge: Restaurant reservations, event tickets, doctor finding, interpreter services, and more are included with every policy.
- Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage: Available on all plans if purchased within 15 days of initial trip deposit.
- Kids Covered Free: Up to 2 children under 18 at no extra cost on ExactCare plans. Only four travel insurers offer this.
- 15-Day Free Look: Get a full refund if you change your mind before your trip starts.
Pros and Cons
Compare the pros and cons of Berkshire Hathaway travel insurance.
Pros
- Industry-leading claims speed (5x faster)
- Exceptional financial backing (A++)
- Budget-friendly pricing
- Kids are covered free on select plans
- Fixed benefit payouts (no receipt haggling)
- Pre-existing conditions coverage available
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- Free concierge services
Cons
- Low medical limits on budget plans
- CFAR only on LuxuryCare
- Mobile app stability issues
- No annual/multi-trip plans
- Secondary coverage on some plans
- Strict policy definitions for claims
- Limited add-on customization
Our Verdict & Overall Score for Berkshire Hathaway Travel Insurance
At the end of the day, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection delivers precisely what it promises: straightforward travel insurance backed by serious financial muscle, with a claims process designed to get you paid quickly. The medical coverage limits on entry-level plans are a legitimate concern for international travelers. Still, for domestic trips and budget-conscious travelers who value speed and simplicity, BHTP is a solid choice that won’t leave you stressed when things go wrong.
Choose BHTP if you: prioritize fast claims processing, want strong financial backing, are traveling domestically or on short international trips, have kids you want covered for free, enjoy adventure sports and need AdrenalineCare coverage, or simply want affordable peace of mind without overthinking it.
Look elsewhere if you: need maximum medical coverage for extended international travel (consider Travel Insured International or Seven Corners), require Cancel For Any Reason coverage on a budget plan (take a look at Travel Insured International), travel for long periods of time (look at HTH travel insurance), or prioritize a polished mobile app experience (consider Faye travel insurance).
About Our Methodology
We use a weighted scoring system for travel insurance reviews. We compared 20 companies on key factors, including their travel insurance rates, to inform our ratings. Once we scored each company, we applied a curve based on the best overall product. Here’s what we look for:
- Financial Strength & Solvency: 20%
- Affordability & Value: 15%
- Customer Service: 20%
- Online & Digital Experience: 10%
- Customer Satisfaction & Reputation: 20%
- Claims Process: 15%
How Berkshire Hathaway Scored
- Financial Strength: 10/10
- Affordability: 8/10
- Customer Service: 7/10
- Online Experience: 6/10
- Customer Satisfaction: 7/10
- Claims Process: 8/10
You can learn more about how each company scored and what curve was applied here: Travel Insurance Reviews.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to your questions about Berkshire Hathaway travel insurance.
Yes, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) is a division of Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, which is part of Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway conglomerate. This connection gives BHTP exceptional financial backing and an A++ rating from AM Best, the highest rating possible in the insurance industry. While Buffett doesn’t run the day-to-day operations of BHTP (that’s President Dean Sivley), the financial strength of the parent company means you can trust that claims will be paid. It’s one of the most financially secure travel insurance providers you can buy from.
Yes, all Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, but there’s a catch: you must purchase your policy within 15 days of making your initial trip deposit to qualify. If you wait longer than 15 days, pre-existing conditions will be excluded from your coverage. This is pretty standard across the travel insurance industry, so the key takeaway is to buy your policy as soon as you book your trip. The 15-day window applies to conditions affecting both you and any family members whose health could impact your travel plans.
Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection is known for industry-leading claims speed, paying claims up to five times faster than the average travel insurer. If you file through their mobile app or online portal and choose electronic direct deposit, you can receive payment the same day your claim is approved. Their BHTP Burst payment system enables this rapid turnaround. For more complex claims requiring additional documentation or review, expect a timeline of 2-4 weeks, which is still faster than most competitors. Flight delay claims filed through ExactCare Extra can even be processed automatically through their flight tracking system without you having to do anything.
Yes, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection treats COVID-19 like any other illness for both trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage. If you test positive for COVID before your trip and your doctor advises you not to travel, you can file a trip cancellation claim. If you get sick with COVID during your trip and need medical treatment abroad, your emergency medical coverage applies. However, you cannot cancel simply because you’re worried about COVID or because of general pandemic-related concerns. You need an actual diagnosis or a doctor’s recommendation not to travel. The same rules that apply to the flu or any other sickness apply to COVID.
The main differences come down to medical coverage limits and family pricing. ExactCare Value offers $15,000 in emergency medical coverage and is the most budget-friendly option, best for domestic trips where medical costs are less of a concern. ExactCare bumps that up to $50,000 in medical coverage and includes the “Kids Covered Free” benefit, which covers up to two children under 18 at no additional cost per insured adult. ExactCare also provides 150% trip interruption coverage (vs. 100% for Value) and includes missed connection coverage, which ExactCare Value excludes. If you’re traveling with kids or going international, ExactCare is worth the upgrade. For a solo domestic trip, ExactCare Value might be all you need.
Yes, but only on the LuxuryCare plan, which is Berkshire Hathaway’s premium offering. Cancel For Any Reason coverage is not available on ExactCare, ExactCare Value, ExactCare Extra, or any of the specialty plans like WaveCare or AdrenalineCare. With CFAR on LuxuryCare, you can cancel your trip for literally any reason not covered by standard trip cancellation and receive up to 50% of your nonrefundable trip costs back. To qualify for CFAR, you typically need to purchase the policy within 15-21 days of your initial trip deposit and cancel at least 48 hours before departure. If CFAR is a priority and you don’t want to pay LuxuryCare prices, you may want to compare competitors like Travel Insured International.
Standard BHTP plans like ExactCare and LuxuryCare exclude coverage for most adventure activities, just like most travel insurers. However, Berkshire Hathaway offers a specialty plan called AdrenalineCare specifically designed for thrill-seekers. AdrenalineCare covers activities that other insurers won’t touch, including skydiving, rock climbing, scuba diving, bungee jumping, and similar extreme sports. It includes $750,000 in medical evacuation coverage (important when you’re doing risky activities in remote locations), plus trip cancellation that covers things like license fees if you need to cancel a dive trip. If you’re planning an adventure-heavy vacation, AdrenalineCare is one of the few options on the market that will actually protect you.
Berkshire Hathaway offers a cruise-specific plan called WaveCare that’s designed specifically for cruise travelers. WaveCare includes $75,000 in emergency medical coverage, $750,000 in medical evacuation (important for getting off a ship in the middle of the ocean), and several cruise-specific benefits you won’t find elsewhere. These include cruise ship disablement coverage (pays $500 if your ship loses power, water, food, or restrooms for 5+ hours), cruise line bankruptcy protection (reimburses you if your cruise line goes under), cruise ship diversion coverage, and prepaid excursion cancellation. While you could use ExactCare or LuxuryCare for a cruise, WaveCare’s specialized benefits make it worth considering if cruising is your main travel style.
Berkshire Hathaway offers four ways to file a claim: through their online portal at bhtp.com/claims, via their mobile app using the “pic-and-click” feature (just snap photos of your documentation), by email at [email protected], or by phone at 844-411-2487 (Option 4). The mobile app and online portal are the fastest options, especially if you want same-day electronic payment. You’ll need to provide your trip invoice showing travel dates and costs, proof of payment, documentation of any refunds you received, and relevant supporting documents (like a doctor’s note for medical claims or airline cancellation notices for trip cancellation). For ExactCare Extra customers with flight information on file, flight delay claims can be filed and paid automatically through their tracking system.
No, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection currently does not offer annual or multi-trip travel insurance policies. All of their plans are single-trip policies, meaning you need to purchase a new policy for each trip you take. If you travel frequently and want an annual policy that covers all your trips for the year, you’ll need to look at other providers. Some alternatives for frequent travelers include Allianz (offers annual plans), World Nomads, and IMG Global. The upside of BHTP’s single-trip approach is that you can customize coverage for each specific trip based on destination, activities, and cost. The downside is the hassle and potential added cost if you take many trips per year.
Important Information About Travel Insurance
*Insurance needs vary significantly based on individual circumstances. This page provides general information and should not be considered personal insurance advice. Always read policy documents carefully and consider consulting with a licensed insurance professional for guidance on your specific situation.
**Company information and offerings may have changed since the time of writing. Please always verify the current details before purchasing an individual policy.