Key takeaways
Travel insurance may cover electronics in certain circumstances and with restrictions, like per-item limits and add-on coverage requirements
Standalone electronic device insurance can help cover theft, accidental damage, and spills
What types of gadgets can be covered when traveling?
Travel insurance may help cover some costs if certain gadgets are stolen, lost, or damaged while you're traveling:
Electronic device insurance may also provide coverage for these devices and others — like cameras and gaming consoles — depending on your policy and how the theft or accidental damage occurs.
What is covered by travel insurance vs. electronic device insurance?
Travel insurance and electronic device insurance may help reimburse you for repair or replacement costs if something happens to your device. See which electronic-related scenarios might be covered by each type of insurance:
| Scenario | Travel insurance | Electronic device insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Device lost by airline in checked luggage | Travel insuranceCheckmark | Electronic device insuranceNot Applicable |
| Device stolen during a trip | Travel insuranceCheckmark | Electronic device insuranceCheckmark |
| Device damaged during baggage handling | Travel insuranceCheckmark | Electronic device insuranceCheckmark |
| Cracked screen | Travel insuranceNot Applicable | Electronic device insuranceCheckmark |
| Liquid damage/spills | Travel insuranceNot Applicable | Electronic device insuranceCheckmark |
| Accidental drops | Travel insuranceNot Applicable | Electronic device insuranceNot Applicable |
Keep in mind that coverage ultimately depends on your specific insurance policy and scenario.
What isn't covered by travel insurance vs. electronic device insurance?
Travel insurance and electronic device insurance can help cover certain losses, but they don't cover every situation.
Travel insurance typically applies to covered theft or baggage-related losses when you're traveling, while electronic device insurance applies to covered theft and accidental damage. Each has its own exclusions, and some may overlap.
What travel insurance typically doesn't cover:
- Loss caused by your own negligence (e.g., leaving your device unattended)
- The full value of your device beyond your policy's baggage limits
- Damage or loss tied to excluded events like high-risk sports
- Damage or loss tied to alcohol- or drug-related incidents
What electronic device insurance typically doesn't cover:
- Losing or misplacing your phone
- Unauthorized repairs
- Device modifications
- Software problems
- Viruses and malware
- Wear and tear
- Corrosion
- Cosmetic damage
- Manufacturer defects
- Mechanical failure
What should you do if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged while traveling?
If you notice your device has been lost, stolen, or damaged while traveling, consider taking a few important steps:
Change passwords and back up data
Protecting your data can help keep your information secure while you’re traveling, especially if your device goes missing or falls into the wrong hands.
If you lose your phone, tablet, or laptop, change your passwords to important accounts. If possible, remotely back up your files, photos, and other data.
Report what happened
Report the loss, theft, or damage as soon as possible. That may mean reporting it to the airline, your hotel, local police, or other travel provider, such as a rental car company or tour operator.
Reporting the incident helps document what happened, and your insurer may require this documentation when you file a claim.
File a claim with your insurer
To make a travel insurance or electronic device insurance claim for your device:
- Report the loss, theft, or damage to the airline (if applicable), hotel, or local police
- Contact your insurer to file a claim for covered losses
- Share an itemized list of your missing devices and personal belongings
- Share receipts for expensive items
- Share photos of your device
- Provide proof of reimbursement from the airline (if applicable)
Progressive allows you to submit claims online, including uploading documents and photos. For stolen or damaged electronic device insurance claims, be ready to submit serial numbers, police reports, and purchase receipts.
What if an airline loses your luggage with your device inside?
If the airline loses your luggage with your device inside:
- Check for your missing luggage at the customer service office near the baggage claim area
- File a property irregularity report (PIR)
- Keep baggage claim tags, your boarding pass, and other travel documents in a safe place
Learn more about how travel insurance covers lost luggage.
Quote and compare travel insurance plans with Progressive through InsureMyTrip, and explore electronic device coverage by Worth Ave. Group to compare options for your trip.
