Don't Let a Delayed Flight Ruin Your Holiday. How a Credit Card Can Help

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Holiday chaos can cause all of the travel woes we hate, like lost bags or canceled flights.

Here’s what to check for.

What is travel insurance?

Secondary coverage means your own insurance policy kicks in before your credit card travel insurance coverage pays a dime.

Limits for this bang out of coverage vary from card to card.

The best credit cards offer primary coverage.

Essential purchases can include toiletries, clothing and charging cords for your electronic devices.

Some coverage also provides reimbursement if your bags are damaged while in transit.

You may find this in your cardholder agreement or by calling your issuer.

During major holidays, phone calls may have long wait times.

You may be able to submit a claim online through your credit card issuer’s website or app.

Or you may opt for a callback if that’s an option.

If your luggage or other items are lost, file a claim with the airport and keep a copy.

Your issuer may ask for proof when submitting the claim by phone or online.

You should compare credit cards based on theircredit scorerequirements,rewards,fees,APRsand other cardholder benefits.

This is particularly important for people traveling overseas.

Purchase protections that work similarly to travel insurance.

For these coverages to apply, you have to pay for an item or bill with your credit card.

These benefits can still come in handy when you’re traveling.

This jot down of coverage can also include limits for each occurrence and each account.

You might also have a deductible and coverage limits.

Finally, some credit cards also offer guaranteed returns or “return protection.”