Thanksgiving Travel Insurance: Coverage Tips for Holiday Road Trips

As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, millions of Americans are hitting the road to visit family, friends, and favorite destinations. Whether you’re planning a scenic drive through Connecticut or a cross-country adventure, one thing is certain: travel disruptions can happen at any time. That’s why having the right Thanksgiving travel insurance is more important than ever.

At Insurance Near Me CT, we understand that holiday travel comes with unique risks—especially during peak times like Thanksgiving. From flight delays and rental car mishaps to unexpected weather and even government shutdowns, the last thing you want is to be left stranded without coverage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential tips for protecting your trip and ensuring a smooth journey.

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods in the U.S., with over 6 million people flying and millions more driving. With increased traffic, crowded airports, and unpredictable weather, delays and cancellations are common. Travel insurance can help reimburse you for lost prepaid expenses, meals, accommodations, and even transportation costs if your trip is disrupted.

However, not all policies are created equal. Many travelers assume their credit cards’ built-in travel insurance will cover any delay, but recent events—such as government shutdowns and air traffic control issues—have exposed gaps in coverage. For example, most credit card travel protections do not cover delays caused by FAA staffing shortages or government shutdowns, as these are often considered “uncontrollable” events.

When shopping for travel insurance, make sure your plan includes:

• Trip delay coverage – Reimburses you for meals, hotels, and other expenses if your trip is delayed.
• Trip cancellation/interruption – Covers non-refundable costs if you must cancel or cut your trip short.
• Rental car protection – Provides coverage for damage or theft if you’re renting a vehicle.
• 24/7 emergency assistance – Offers support if you need help while on the road.

If you’re driving, consider adding rental car insurance or checking if your existing auto policy covers rentals. For those flying, double-check your travel insurance policy to ensure it covers the specific risks you’re most likely to face.

Before you hit the road, take these steps to protect yourself and your family:

• Check your vehicle – Make sure your tires, brakes, oil, and lights are in good condition.
• Avoid peak travel times – The busiest days are usually the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after.
• Be alert for drunk drivers – “Blackout Wednesday” is known for increased alcohol consumption, so stay vigilant on the roads.
• Pack an emergency kit – Include snacks, water, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.

While travel insurance protects you on the road, don’t forget about your home. If you’re traveling for Thanksgiving, make sure your homeowner insurance in CT is up to date. This coverage can protect your property from theft, fire, and other unexpected events while you’re away. At Insurance Near Me CT, we can help you review your policy and ensure you have the right protection for your home and belongings.

• Purchase travel insurance early – Coverage for government shutdowns or other unforeseen events may not apply if you buy after the risk has already started.
• Read the fine print – Understand what your policy covers and what’s excluded.
• Keep receipts – If you experience a delay or cancellation, save all receipts for meals, hotels, and transportation.
• Contact your insurer – If you run into issues, reach out to your insurance provider or agent for guidance.

This Thanksgiving, don’t let travel disruptions ruin your holiday. With the right travel insurance and a little preparation, you can enjoy peace of mind on the road and at home. For personalized advice and coverage options, contact Insurance Near Me CT today. We’re here to help you protect what matters most—your family, your home, and your holiday memories.