Traveling With Medicare
You worked hard to earn your Medicare. But will it travel with you?
Whether you're road-tripping across the U.S. or heading overseas, it’s critical to know how far your Medicare coverage goes—and where it stops.
The Problem:
Most people assume Medicare covers them anywhere in the world. But if you leave the U.S., you may be completely on your own for medical costs.
The Guide:
At Mere, we help you understand your Medicare and prepare for whatever the road (or sky) brings. Helping you prepare for what Medicare covers—and doesn’t—when you travel. Whether you're flying, cruising, or crossing state lines, we’ll make sure your health insurance keeps up with your plans.
The Plan:
1. Understand your current coverage Learn what Original Medicare, Medigap, and Medicare Advantage actually cover while traveling.
2. Fill in the gaps with the right protection For international trips, you’ll likely need a separate travel health insurance plan. (We’ve got you covered.)
3. Travel with confidence knowing you're covered Whether it’s an emergency in Europe or a prescription refill on a cruise, you'll know exactly what to do.
| Type of Medicare | Inside the U.S. | Outside the U.S. |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare | Covered | Not covered outside U.S. and territories |
| Medigap Plan G/N | Nationwide | Limited emergency coverage only (max $50,000 lifetime, first 60 days) |
| Medicare Advantage (MAPD) | ER/Urgent Care covered nationwide (no network needed) | Some plans include limited emergency coverage abroad—varies widely |
Note: Even if your plan says “emergency care abroad,” it may come with time or dollar limits. Most won’t help with things like follow-up care, hospital stays, or medical evacuation.
Important: Even if your Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan offers limited foreign emergency benefits, providers outside the U.S. do not recognize or bill U.S. insurance. You must pay out of pocket first and then file for reimbursement.
Why You Still Need Travel Health Insurance
Imagine needing hospitalization overseas. Or emergency evacuation. Without the right coverage, you could face tens of thousands in bills, with no Medicare support.
That’s why we recommend GeoBlue Travel Insurance:
First-dollar payment options — you may not have to pay up front
No need to file for reimbursement in many cases
Covers hospital care, emergency services, prescriptions, and more
Trusted by international travelers, tailored for Medicare-aged adults
FAQs: Medicare & Travel
Will Medicare cover me on a cruise?
Only if you're within U.S. territorial waters (usually within 6 hours of a U.S. port). Outside that, Original Medicare doesn’t apply.
Doesn’t my Medigap plan cover international travel?
Some do—Plans G and N, for example—but benefits are limited to foreign emergency care during your first 60 days abroad, with a lifetime cap of $50,000. You’ll still need to pay up front and file for reimbursement.
I have a Medicare Advantage plan. Will it cover me abroad?
Maybe. Some MAPD plans offer limited emergency or urgent care coverage overseas. But again—foreign doctors and hospitals won’t accept your card. You must pay out of pocket and request reimbursement later.
So what’s the alternative?
A standalone travel medical policy, like GeoBlue, which is designed specifically for international care. With many plans, GeoBlue pays directly to providers, eliminating the reimbursement hassle.
What if I’m only traveling in the U.S.?
You’re in good shape.
With Original Medicare + Medigap, you're covered nationwide.
With MAPD, ER and urgent care are always covered nationwide, no matter where you go—even outside your plan’s service area.
Don’t Leave the Country Uncovered
Whether it’s a Caribbean cruise, a trip to Europe, or a dream safari—make sure your Medicare isn’t left behind.
📞 Have questions?
Call us at 904-654-5450 or email info@merebenefits.com
Ready to protect your international trip?
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