Introduction
Travel insurance protects your trip investment and health when the unexpected hits (cancellations, emergencies, etc.). John Hancock – a historic Boston-based insurer (now part of Manulife) – launched its travel insurance line in 2019. As a unit of Manulife (a global financial group with ~$881 billion AUM), John Hancock has strong backing. Its policies (Bronze, Silver, Gold) are underwritten by Starr Indemnity & Liability Company. Starr’s subsidiaries carry an A (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, signaling financial strength. In short, John Hancock Travel offers high-coverage plans from a well-known brand. This article dives deep into their plans, costs, customer feedback, and how they stack up against competitors.
John Hancock Travel Insurance overview
John Hancock Insurance Agency, Inc. (a Manulife subsidiary) distributes these plans. Starr Indemnity & Liability Co. (Starr Companies) underwrites them. Starr’s insurance entities have an A.M. Best rating of A (Excellent) (Squaremouth even reports A+), giving assurance of stability. John Hancock Travel launched on the TravelInsurance.com platform in Dec 2019 to reach more consumers. By leveraging John Hancock’s 160+ year reputation and Starr’s underwriting, these plans target travelers seeking high limits and robust benefits.
John Hancock Travel Insurance Plans & Coverage
John Hancock Travel Insurance offers three comprehensive plan tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold) to fit different needs. All plans cover trip cancellation/interruption, travel delay, baggage, emergency medical/evacuation and more, with 100% trip cancellation protection on all tiers. Key differences in coverage limits are summarized below (figures per person, limits may vary by state):
- Bronze (most affordable): Trip Cancellation covers 100% of trip cost; Interruption 125%; Travel Delay $150/day (up to $500 total); Baggage loss $750 ($250/each); Emergency Medical $50,000; Evacuation/Repatriation $250,000. Maximum insurable trip cost is typically $10,000/person.
- Silver (mid-level): Trip Cancellation 100%; Interruption 150%; Travel Delay $150/day (up to $750); Baggage $1,000; Medical $100,000; Evacuation $500,000. (Max trip cost ~$20,000.)
- Gold (highest coverage): Trip Cancellation 100%; Interruption 150%; Travel Delay $200/day (up to $1,000); Baggage $2,500; Medical $250,000; Evacuation $1,000,000. (Max trip cost up to ~$100,000.)
Each plan automatically includes primary (deductible-free) medical coverage. All plans cover pre-trip costs 100% up front (interruption adds 25–50%). For example, Business Insider notes “100% cancellation and up to 150% interruption” across John Hancock’s tiers. The plans meet international travel recommendations: even Bronze meets Squaremouth’s minimum of $50K emergency medical and $250K evacuation.
Add-on Options. Optional riders allow customization: Cancel-For-Any-Reason (CFAR) (up to 75% refund), rental car collision coverage (up to $50K secondary), and higher Accidental Death & Dismemberment limits. CFAR must be purchased at time of quote (within a strict “buy-window”): generally within 14 days of initial deposit. John Hancock’s CFAR covers 75% of prepaid trip cost if added in time (besting many insurers’ 50–60%). (Note: New York residents cannot buy CFAR.)
Pre-existing Conditions. All three plans include a pre-existing medical waiver if eligibility rules are met. Specifically, if you buy the policy within 14 days of first trip payment and insure your full prepaid trip cost, medical conditions in the 60 days prior to booking are waived. (Look-back period = 60 days.) In practice this means John Hancock does cover pre-existing issues (e.g. heart conditions, cancer, etc.) if you act quickly after booking.
COVID-19 Coverage. John Hancock covers COVID-19 illnesses like any other sickness: if the insured (or a companion/close family member) is doctor-diagnosed with COVID-19 before or during the trip, the policy’s Trip Cancellation, Interruption, Delay, Emergency Medical and Evacuation benefits can apply. For example, testing positive for COVID-19 before travel could trigger 100% reimbursement of prepaid costs under Trip Cancellation. Emergency medical treatment and evacuation would apply if COVID required care abroad. Excluded: Canceling purely out of fear of COVID or due to government advisories is not covered. In short, John Hancock insures pandemic illnesses for covered individuals, but not trip-cancellation for general outbreak fears (unless you bought CFAR). CFAR, if purchased, will reimburse up to 75% even for COVID-related cancellations outside normal covered reasons.
Cancel-For-Any-Reason (CFAR)
John Hancock Travel Insurance offers a Cancel-For-Any-Reason upgrade on all plans (except NY). CFAR must be added at purchase time (within the eligibility window, usually 14 days of booking). With CFAR you can cancel for any reason (not just illness/evacuation), up to 48+ hours before departure, and still get back 75% of nonrefundable trip costs. This is higher reimbursement than many peers (e.g. Allianz’s “Cancel Anytime” covers 80%, but others like AIG Travel Guard only cover ~50%). CFAR costs extra (roughly ~50% of the premium) but can be worthwhile for high-cost trips if cancellation risks loom. It’s a strong feature of John Hancock’s flexible coverage suite.
John Hancock Travel Insurance Customer Service & Claims Process
John Hancock’s travel plans come with 24/7 support. Before travel, you can reach their customer service line for questions or policy changes. Note: In early 2022 John Hancock shifted claim administration to Seven Corners (a travel-assistance firm). If your policy number starts with “50” (old policies), call Seven Corners at 1-866-888-7803 (or +1‑317‑582‑2660) or email JHIAservice@sevencorners.com. For newer policies (prefix “54”), call 1-866-511-9104 (M–F 7 am–10 pm ET) or email service@johnhancocktravel.com. For travel emergencies, John Hancock offers 24-hour assistance:
- Domestic: 1-866-888-7150; International: +1-819-566-0612.
(If your policy starts with “50”, use 1-866-888-7150; if “54”, use 1-833-322-1237 (US) or +1-819-566-0612 (Intl)johnhancocktravel.com.)
Claims Filing (Step-by-Step). To file a claim, John Hancock directs customers to Starr’s online claims portal or by phone. You can submit claims and check status at starrtravelclaims.com. Alternatively, call 1-866-511-9104 or email StarrTravelClaims@sedgwick.com to request claim forms. Generally, the claims process is: notify John Hancock promptly, collect documentation (medical records, receipts, proof of trip payment, etc.), complete the claim form, and submit via the portal/email/US mail. A Sedgwick claims team then reviews and responds. (Typical response times vary; see “Pros & Cons” below.)
Squaremouth user ratings suggest John Hancock’s customer service is solid before travel (4.31/5) but slower in the middle of a trip (3.67/5) and during claims (3.49/5). This indicates claims can be a weak point. Some reviewers note claims may require persistent follow-up. However, John Hancock does offer a 14-day “free look” on every plan: if you cancel within 14 days of purchase (and haven’t departed or filed a claim), you can get a full refund.
John Hancock Travel Insurance Cost & Pricing Factors
Average Premiums: John Hancock Travel Insurance premiums depend on traveler age, trip cost/length, destination, and chosen coverage. Industry-wide, expect travel insurance to run around 4–8% of trip cost. In practice, John Hancock’s rates tend to be competitive, often 3–6% of trip cost. For example, Business Insider gives quotes for a 23-year-old on a $3,000 trip: roughly $111 (Bronze), $118 (Silver), $160 (Gold) – just 3.7–5.3% of the trip price. Even for a 65-year-old couple on a $6,000 trip, premiums were about $360–$540 (6–9%). These rates are often below average. Squaremouth reports sample average premiums (20–59 yrs, $5K–$10K trips): ~$234 Bronze, ~$307 Silver, ~$517 Gold.
Cost Factors: Older travelers pay more; family/multi-person trips cost more; longer trips raise premiums. Higher coverage limits (electing Gold vs. Silver) also hike premiums. Destination matters too (U.S. trips often cost less than high-medical-cost countries). Purchasing CFAR adds ~40–50% to the base premium. Given the variables, the best approach is to get a quote with your specifics. But in general, Business Insider notes John Hancock’s pricing “stay fairly consistent, even for older travelers,” making it relatively affordable for seniors.
John Hancock Travel Insurance Pros & Cons
- John Hancock Travel Insurance Pros: John Hancock Travel Insurance plans offer very generous limits. All tiers include 100% trip cancellation coverage and cover up to 125–150% of trip cost for interruptions. Emergency medical ($50K–$250K) and evacuation ($250K–$1M) limits are high. CFAR (75%) and pre-existing waivers (14-day) are available on every plan – features often restricted by others. The plans come with a 14-day money-back guarantee. Squaremouth highlights the “high medical coverage limits” and CFAR add-on as advantages. The 24/7 emergency assistance and primary medical coverage add to traveler peace-of-mind. Industry sources call John Hancock “reputable and trustworthy” for customizable, comprehensive coverage; Business Insider praises its high coverages for costly trips. Customers report good pre-trip service; Squaremouth notes only 0.2% of reviews are negative.
- John Hancock Travel Insurance Cons: Some buyers face downsides. Claims process issues are the most common complaint. Business Insider and other reviewers cite anecdotal frustrations: slow response times, requests for “superfluous documentation,” and occasional claim denials. Squaremouth’s claims rating (3.49/5) is noticeably lower than other customer-service metrics. Premiums can be somewhat higher for top-tier Gold coverage: Squaremouth notes “slightly higher average premiums” for comprehensive plans. The Bronze plan’s cap ($10K trip cost) may be too low for very expensive trips. There’s also no built-in coverage for adventure sports (would need add-ons via partners), and rental car collision coverage is only secondary (check your own car rental policy as advised). Finally, CFAR is not available in NY, and like all travel policies, normal exclusions (e.g. certain hazardous activities) still apply.
Comparison With Competitors
John Hancock Travel Insurance competes with major brands like Allianz Global Assistance, AIG Travel Guard, and Travelex. Key differences:
- Allianz Global Assistance (AM Best A+). Allianz’s “OneTrip” plans cover similar basics, with international medical up to ~$100K+ on high plans. Its standout CFAR is called Cancel Anytime: reimburse up to 80% (higher than John Hancock’s 75%) and can be bought on Premier/Prime plans. Allianz also offers annual multi-trip plans (John Hancock has no annual option). Allianz provides free child coverage on some plans and broad leisure packages.
- AIG Travel Guard (through National Union Fire Ins, AM Best A). Travel Guard has four main tiers. It includes pre-existing waivers at all levels, but its CFAR (Cancel-For-Any-Reason) is only on top plans and covers up to 50% of trip cost. Travel Guard is often noted for 24/7 assistance and corporate/business plan options. Its medical limits ($50K–$500K) are comparable, but CFAR is less generous than John Hancock’s.
- Travelex Insurance (underwritten by Berkshire Hathaway, A++). Travelex’s Basic and Select plans offer family perks (kids under 17 free on Select/Classic plans) and customizable add-ons. Its CFAR is limited to the top-tier plan (coverage % varies). Pre-existing waiver is available if bought early. Travelex’s medical coverage starts lower (e.g. $15K on Basic) but its top plan goes up to $250K/$1M like John Hancock. Travelex is highly rated overall (Squaremouth ~4.43/5), but like others, note CFAR restrictions and purchase windows.
In summary, John Hancock Travel Insurance generally offers higher standard limits than Travel Guard and basic Travelex, and more CFAR flexibility (75% on all plans) than Travel Guard (50%) or Allianz (80% but only on higher plans). Unlike Allianz, John Hancock has no annual plans. Each competitor has tradeoffs: Allianz for legacy brand and 80% CFAR; Travel Guard for business trip options; Travelex for family features. The best choice depends on your specific needs (e.g. trip cost, ages, desired add-ons).
John Hancock Travel Insurance Customer Reviews & Ratings
John Hancock Travel Insurance Travel’s user reviews are mixed but generally positive for travel products. On Squaremouth (a major comparison site), John Hancock Travel Insurance has a 4.16/5 overall score from ~1,400 verified travelers. Squaremouth also notes John Hancock holds an A+ BBB accreditation and ~4.1/5 on Trustpilot. (These ratings reflect traveler experiences with claims and support.)
However, some confusion exists. Business Insider points out that John Hancock’s standalone BBB/Trustpilot ratings are low (around 1–1.5), but those primarily reflect its broader financial services (life insurance, investments) rather than travel insurance. Focusing on travel: Squaremouth’s 4.16/5 suggests most users are satisfied. Common praises include responsive pre-trip service and solid coverage. Criticisms (as above) center on claim delays and paperwork. In summary, the travel insurance arm is generally well-regarded, but as with any insurer, one should keep documentation and follow up diligently during claims.
Who Should Buy John Hancock Travel Insurance?
John Hancock Travel Insurance plans are best suited for travelers with high budgets or health risks. If you are paying several thousand dollars for a trip, or you’re older/medically vulnerable, the high coverage limits (especially medical and evacuation) are very attractive. Families with pricey vacations can also benefit from the robust trip cancellation/ interruption cover. The CFAR rider makes these plans appealing when plans might change (e.g. weddings, big events).
Conversely, if your trip is low-cost and low-risk (e.g. domestic weekend getaways), John Hancock’s higher premiums may not be worth it. Budget-minded travelers might opt for a lighter plan (or providers like AIG/Travelex that can be cheaper on low limits). Also, note that John Hancock does not include children under 17 at no extra cost (unlike some competitors), so for family travel check coverages accordingly.
In brief, choose John Hancock if you value high limits and flexibility (CFAR/pre-existing) and can afford the premium. It’s less ideal for lean, quick trips or if your main need is a bare-bones policy.
John Hancock Travel Insurance FAQs
What does John Hancock travel insurance cover for pre-existing conditions?
All John Hancock Travel Insurance plans include a pre-existing medical condition waiver if the policy is purchased within 14 days of your initial trip deposit and you insure the full prepaid cost. Under this waiver, any medical conditions in the 60 days prior to purchase are covered as if they were not pre-existing. If you miss this window, pre-existing conditions are typically excluded.
Is John Hancock travel insurance good?
Yes, John Hancock Travel Insurance is generally considered a strong option for comprehensive coverage. It offers primary medical coverage, high benefit limits (among the highest on the market), and features like CFAR and pre-existing waivers on all plans. Industry reviews call it “reputable and trustworthy” for big trips. It often scores well in user surveys for coverage. That said, “good” depends on your needs: it’s excellent if you want extensive protection, but may be more than you need (and costlier) if your trip is cheap or short.
Does John Hancock travel insurance cover COVID-19?
Yes, in the sense that COVID-19 illness is treated like any other sickness. If you or an insured companion test positive (doctor-diagnosed) before/during the trip, benefits like trip cancellation/interruption and medical evacuation apply. Emergency medical expenses for COVID are covered up to your policy limits. However, John Hancock does not cover trip cancellation simply because of pandemic fear or government advisories. If you worry about quarantine or exposure outside listed reasons, purchasing CFAR would be needed to guarantee reimbursement.
Is John Hancock travel insurance primary coverage?
Yes. John Hancock Travel Insurance policies are primary insurance for medical claims. That means if you have another insurance (e.g. health or credit-card coverage), John Hancock pays first up to policy limits, then your other insurance (if any) can handle any remainder. You don’t have to submit to other insurers first.
Conclusion (Verdict)
John Hancock Travel Insurance offers feature-rich plans with high limits and a solid insurance pedigree. For travelers with expensive trips or health concerns, the comprehensive Bronze/Silver/Gold options (plus CFAR) make strong financial sense, especially given the low relative premiums. The downsides – mostly customer service/claims speed – are shared by many travel insurers, and their coverage advantages often outweigh them for big-ticket trips.
Is it worth it? If you value peace of mind and can afford the cost, yes – especially for international travel, elderly or chronically ill travelers, or high-trip budgets. If your trip is modest or very short, you might find similar protection (for less money) from a lighter plan elsewhere. But for robust trip cancellation/interruption protection and health coverage around the globe, John Hancock stands out.
Call to Action
Protecting your trip is protecting your wallet and sanity. Don’t leave home without insurance – and with John Hancock, you get one of the strongest umbrellas out there. Get a quote and compare plans today, and remember to build an emergency fund too. Tools like 👉 EmergencyFundCalculator.com can help you plan for the unexpected in travel and beyond. Safe travels!
Sources: Authoritative sites, company FAQs, and industry reviews (TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth, BusinessInsider, John Hancock, etc.) have been used throughoutjohnhancock, comsquaremouth.combusinessinsider.cominsuremytrip.comjohnhancocktravel.combusinessinsider.com for factual accuracy. All dollar figures and policy details are based on official plan documents and expert reviews as cited.