Home / Guides / Travel coverage
Medigap when you travel or spend winters away
By Vadim Marusin, licensed Medicare insurance agent in Washington (WAOIC #1365574). Insurer data checked against the state chart current as of October 8, 2026.
A Medigap policy goes wherever Original Medicare goes, which is every state. Outside the U.S. it's a different story, and only some plan letters help.
Inside the United States
Original Medicare is accepted by most doctors and hospitals in all 50 states, and your Medigap policy pays its share everywhere Medicare pays. There's no network, no out-of-area rule and no need to tell your insurer you're traveling.
That makes Medigap the natural fit for:
- Snowbirds who spend winters in Arizona, California, Nevada or Florida,
- people who see specialists out of state, such as cancer centers or university hospitals,
- anyone with family in other states who may need care while visiting.
One thing to check: Part B excess charges. Washington doesn't ban them, and neither do most states you'd winter in. If you'll use doctors away from home, Plan G (which covers excess charges) removes that question. See excess charges.
Outside the United States
Original Medicare pays for care abroad only in rare situations. Medigap helps with emergencies:
| Plan | Foreign travel emergency coverage |
|---|---|
| C, D, F, G, M, N | 80% of medically necessary emergency care after a $250 yearly deductible, up to $50,000 over your lifetime |
| A, B, K, L | None |
Rules that apply:
- Coverage is for emergencies that begin during the first 60 days of a trip.
- It's emergency care, not routine care or planned treatment.
- You usually pay the foreign provider and file for reimbursement, so keep itemized bills.
Canada
Washington's long border with British Columbia means many residents cross often. The foreign travel benefit applies in Canada like anywhere else abroad. For longer stays, or if you want coverage beyond 80% and $50,000, a separate travel medical policy fills the gap.
Living abroad part of the year
Medigap isn't designed for people who live most of the year outside the U.S. If you do, compare a separate international health policy, and keep Medicare and Medigap active for your time in Washington if you want to avoid late-enrollment penalties and health questions later.
Common questions
Does my Washington Medigap plan work in Arizona?
Yes, at any provider that accepts Medicare, with the same benefits as at home.
Does Medigap cover me on a cruise?
Emergency care on a ship outside U.S. waters can count as foreign travel care under Plans C, D, F, G, M and N. Medicare itself covers care on a ship only in limited situations near U.S. ports.
Does Plan N cover foreign travel?
Yes, the same 80% after $250, up to $50,000 lifetime, as Plan G.