Travel Assistance
Are you looking into Medjet alternatives? Here are the most popular medical evacuation and travel security programs on the market so you can pick the right fit based on your travel preferences and budget.
Bryanna Moore, Senior Product Manager
·Published on September 2nd, 2025
The last thing you want to deal with while abroad is a medical emergency, and the best way to have peace of mind is to plan ahead. Medjet’s travel security membership can help in a crisis, and they arrange global air transport from your travel destination’s local medical facility to the hospital of your choice. However, Medjet alternatives may be worth exploring if you want to find a more affordable or flexible service.
Why explore other options? Medjet has limitations that may not cover your trip. For example, if you’re traveling less than 150 miles from home or have a pre-existing condition and are over the age of 75, you may face restrictions. Reputable alternatives may offer fewer restrictions and better benefits.
Check out this side-by-side comparison of top medical evacuation companies so you can weigh your options and make sure you sign up for a plan with must-have features that fit your travel style.
Medjet travel protection is a membership service that arranges and pays for air transport to the hospital of your choice if you meet specific medical conditions. It differs from an insurance policy in that there are no deductibles, claim forms, or dollar amount caps on air transportation.
Key benefits and features of Medjet include:
It’s easy to find medical travel assistance providers that match your needs when you have a clear comparison of their offerings. Here’s everything you need to know about the stand-out features, pricing structures, and pros and cons of the nine leading Medjet alternatives.
| Alternative Brand | Best For | Notable Features | Cost | Plan Structure |
| Emergency Assistance Plus® (EA+®) |
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~$229/year |
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| Global Rescue |
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Rescue services from the site of an injury to the nearest facility | ~$139/year |
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| SkyMed International |
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Air transport to the hospital closest to home, as the member chooses | ~$795/year |
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| IAS Medical |
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Seasoned in transportation logistics to and from the U.K. and EU< | Varies (quoted per transport) |
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| AirMed International |
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~$265/year |
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| Assist America |
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Arranges and covers costs for evacuation and repatriation | Included with group benefits (not sold directly) |
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| Med-Trans |
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~$99/year |
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| International SOS |
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Needs-based medical evacuations to the nearest facility | Quote-only (varies per trip) |
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| Travel Guard MedEvac Plan |
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Medical and evacuation insurance plans | Quote-only (no public pricing) |
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Emergency Assistance Plus® (EA+®) is a well-established emergency assistance service and has provided support for over 2 million travelers since 1996, making it the best Medjet alternative. What sets EA+ apart is the company’s commitment to quality services paired with affordability. EA+ doesn’t have age limitations or require a medical exam to qualify, and is therefore highly accessible.
When it comes to Medjet vs. EA+, you can expect more robust offerings from EA+ with additional inclusions like lost document replacements and any necessary cash advances. And while a Medjet membership averages about $315 per year, EA+ memberships are much more affordable, averaging $229 per year. This makes it perfect for budget travelers who want to save funds for the trip itself.
EA+ also caters to families, offering plans that protect multiple travelers as well as a round-trip economy flight for a loved one who wants to be by your side during an emergency. Traveling with pets? EA+ helps with that, too, providing pet care services while you’re being transferred to the hospital of your choice.
Go with EA+ if you’re looking for straightforward pricing and reasonable rates, as it’s more affordable than Medjet and ideal for budget travelers. It’s an excellent fit for cross-country road trips and domestic travel, with strong offerings that don’t just kick in when you’re far from home. It’s also great for older travelers, since there is no medical evaluation needed to sign up, regardless of age.
EA+ shines when it comes to robust support beyond a flight. The team can provide you with professional support, arrange for a loved one to join you by your bedside, and make sure minors make it home safely.
However, the program is only able to move you to a hospital near your home if it’s medically necessary, so it may not apply in situations where you’re fully provided for at your current facility.
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EA+ has a strong roster of positive reviews. One member left the following testimonial:
“EA+ was magnificent. They made arrangements and paid for my air flight home. They also sent a nurse to accompany me on the flight and he provided great assistance all the way back to my home in Oregon. EA+ also arranged for a professional driver to drive my car back to Oregon. I could not have asked for better help.” — EA+ Member
EA+ makes it simple to compare plans with flat rates and a clear set of options. You can choose between the following four annual plans:
Global Rescue offers emergency medical services alongside add-on security evacuation services. The team is available 24/7 and consists of paramedics, nurses, physicians and military vets who can assist members in a crisis.
The company focuses on transporting injured travelers to the nearest medical facility and is available worldwide. Once you’ve been placed in a nearby hospital, Global Rescue will assist in transferring you to your home hospital, although it cannot guarantee availability. It also offers local rescue, which helps within 100 miles of your residence.
When it comes to EA+ vs. Global Rescue, Global Rescue offers additional evacuation services from remote areas, best-suited for adventure travelers. Business travelers with high-risk itineraries are also supported in the case of civil unrest or natural disasters. Frequent travelers or those taking extended trips can select a plan based on the length of their longest trip, ranging from 45 to 365 days, ensuring long-term protection.
Global Rescue can be a relief for active travelers who may find themselves in an unsafe, remote environment. Getting to a medical facility isn’t always accessible, and Global Rescue offers support from the moment something goes wrong. This means you don’t have to worry about coordinating logistics from start to finish of your transfer home.
However, Global Rescue can’t guarantee a transfer to your preferred hospital, which Medjet offers to its members. The pricing structure is also more nuanced and is based on the length of your trip or the longest journey. A company like EA+ may be a better value, since you can pay a flat annual rate that doesn’t increase based on the number of trips you take.
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Global Rescue is not BBB Accredited, and many Trustpilot reviews report a lack of transparency regarding its medical and transportation options. Other users have reported a positive experience contacting the support team. One user shared:
“We had a fantastic experience with [Global Rescue] with a helicopter rescue on our prior expedition.”
With these mixed reviews, take care to thoroughly review your plan and clarify all terms before purchasing.
While Global Rescue plans start at $139, rates vary greatly depending on the type of plan you select and other factors like:
SkyMed International focuses on bringing you to the closest hospital to your home, not just the nearest adequate facility. SkyMed also allows you to go home as soon as you’re able to fly and you’re based in the U.S. or Canada.
The service offers both sky and ground transport and handles the entire process from the foreign hospital to your home hospital. It can also arrange a round-trip flight for a visitor, escort family members and vehicles home, and provide a stipend up to $200 per day for medical flight-related expenses. This is a benefit that other SkyMed alternatives may not offer.
SkyMed may suit long-term road travelers in North America. The service can return cars, RVs, and boats home, and offers extensive ground support. It’s also a strong option for families, with a focus on getting everyone home while supporting the patient.
Core protection is in North America and the Caribbean — to unlock global services, members must purchase a Global Emergency Travel Services (GETS) add-on. Medjet, in comparison, offers global protection in all of its membership tiers.
Those with a pre-existing medical condition are eligible for plans after a 91-day waiting period, which is a benefit for travelers who can book their trip well in advance of departure.
SkyMed’s ability to provide robust family transportation and vehicle return services is a significant benefit and is best for road travelers. There aren’t restrictions on your traveling distance like the 150-mile rule Medjet holds, so even local travel is covered.
But SkyMed’s 91-day waiting period for travelers with pre-existing conditions is stricter than Medjet’s, which allows all applicants under 75 to apply without medical questions or a waiting period.
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SkyMed International has an A+ rating and has been in business since 1989, making it a reputable choice. One couple shared a positive experience with their membership:
“We have had a policy with them for many years. Have two friends who were very happy to have the coverage from them when things went awry and someone needed to be evacuated.”
However, there are mixed reviews, with one user stating their customer service experience was unhelpful.
SkyMed’s starting annual cost is higher than Medjet’s, but if you invest in three- or five-year plans, you’ll receive a 25% or 35% discount, bringing the fee down to a more reasonable number. There are flat annual memberships as well as a SkyMed Essentials, a trip-based option that charges by the day and room.
IAS Medical is a U.K.-based company that coordinates international transport with private medically equipped air ambulances and in-flight medical teams. The company focuses on full medical supervision, and primarily assists patients to and from various European regions.
Unlike Medjet, IAS does not offer annual plans and operates on a per-mission basis, so there’s no pre-enrollment process or membership. Instead, you call them during your emergency to assess the fee and scope of services they’re able to provide.
IAS Medical is a convenient choice for U.K. and EU residents since the U.K.-based company is familiar with the region and operates in this time zone. Fully private aircraft and onboard medical teams also make the service ideal for those who need extensive medical care during long-distance travel.
For complete medical care from your flight to the hospital, IAS Medical is a solid choice, as it handles all of the logistics in your time of need. The company operates its own aircraft and medical crews for straightforward service, unlike Medjet, which coordinates flights through a network of third-party partners.
The biggest drawback to IAS Medical’s services is its lack of pricing transparency and set plans, which can make it hard to know how much you’ll spend. Services can skyrocket into tens of thousands of dollars, especially across far distances, with a trip from the U.S. to the U.K. starting at £49,500. Therefore, this option is significantly more expensive than Medjet and is prohibitive for budget travelers.
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There are several testimonials from IAS Medical users noting that the evacuation team is caring and professional, with one client affectionately thanking her many supporters by first name:
“To all of the IAS Medical team, a big thank you to Marcin and his co-pilot, medics Isobel and Jack for transporting me home with such great care and attention from Corfu back home to the U.K. With very best wishes.”
Based on several reviews, IAS Medical offers highly personal service.
Each individual situation will be assessed and quoted by an IAS Medical agent at the time of your emergency. While it’s hard for clients to calculate estimated amounts on their website, the service is in the five-figure range for longer medical evacuations.
IAS Medical determines each quote based on the following factors:
AirMed International has its own fleet of medically equipped aircraft that can transport travelers between hospitals during an emergency. Its bedside-to-bedside service means a medical professional or team stays by your side throughout the entire relocation process.
AirMed offers broad protection with over 25,000 missions available in 150 countries. There are several short-term and annual plans to choose from, designed for different types of travelers, and therefore more customizable than Medjet’s plans.
Opt for AirMed if you prefer a provider that directly manages the aircraft and crew and offers in-house medical staff and flight logistics. This is especially helpful if you want timely and robust protection for critical medical needs.
It’s also a good option for students and nomads, and offers specific medical plans that cater to these demographics.
AirMed International wins with a straightforward, fully inclusive transportation process that includes high-level medical care and complete assistance from start to finish. Unlike Medjet, AirMed can better direct and manage your needs since it operates an independent fleet rather than relying on third-party vendors.
Still, AirMed has its limitations. You must first visit a hospital to activate your membership, so the company does not offer extraction services unless you purchase the additional security add-on. Memberships also have trip length and distance limits, so review each plan closely to make sure there aren’t constraints on the type of travel you plan on.
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AirMed International has an A+ rating from BBB and also boasts a five-star customer rating on the platform. Many users report that they were adequately cared for when dealing with family emergencies, with one member stating, “This company saved my mother’s life.”
The company sits in a sweet spot with abundant plan offerings that have straightforward structures, so it’s not too overwhelming to find the right fit.
Here are AirMed’s current membership tiers:
Assist America is a global emergency medical service that comes with a suite of features such as evacuation, relocation services, and coordinated care. Rather than selling memberships publicly, the company offers its service as a benefit, often through group insurance providers or alumni associations.
Since you can’t purchase a plan directly like Medjet’s offerings, it is a limitation for many travelers. However, it may be included as a complimentary benefit under an insurance or school plan, which is a tremendous value for those who qualify.
Assist America is a great option for organizations and businesses that want to provide protection for a large group in a streamlined and possibly more affordable way. It’s also a strong fit for business travel and includes both recreational and work-related flights for covered employees.
Families benefit from included family support services like covering a bedside companion’s flight to your hospital or accompanying minors home if necessary.
An Assist America membership is an excellent value if your employer, educational institution, or association provides it. It’s a savvy option for business travelers that also accommodates personal travel with family-friendly benefits.
However, unlike a Medjet plan that’s readily available for all travelers, Assist America is only available for certain individuals, and offerings may vary depending on specific partnership agreements. There are also limits to the maximum number of days per trip, and since services are bundled, pricing transparency is limited.
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Assist America has received rave reviews and feedback from famous figures such as chef Jacques Pépin. In a video review, he shares that the company was quick to offer speedy support, leaving the following testimonial:
“A few years ago I was in Mexico and I had a medical problem. My wife called Assist America. I was amazed at the speed at which they came, how thorough they were, how organized they were, how cultured they were, and in no time at all I was back in Connecticut […] If it hadn’t been for Assist America, I may not be here today […]”
Since Assist America is only available via a third party, it does not set a public price for emergency evacuation services. However, some providers offer these services for free as part of a larger bundled offering.
Since pricing isn’t transparent and the program doesn’t offer published annual rates for individuals, Medjet may be a more accessible option.
Med-Trans is based in the United States and services 38 states with its network of fixed-wing and helicopter aircraft. The company partners with EMS providers and hospitals to offer local, community-based medical transport memberships for domestic travelers.
Other core offerings include a round-trip flight for a companion if you’re incapacitated for an extended period, need child care, and help with any lost documents. It can also help you with the logistics of shipping remains if necessary. The offerings are similar to those of Medjet, but are more budget-friendly for those who need domestic support.
If most of your trips are within the States, from regular road trips to frequent family visits, this plan may be a good fit, since you won’t need the bells and whistles of a global plan. With 911-level responses, it’s also ideal for critical medical emergencies.
To sign up for a Med-Trans plan, you’ll need to do so through the AirMedCare Network (AMCN), offered directly through insurance policies or hospitals. If you’re already a member, you have easy access to the plan. And if not, you can register to join AMCN on its new member page.
Med-Trans is especially valuable for travelers who stick to traveling in the U.S. and don’t need additional international services at extra cost. It also stands out with its extreme affordability for families since it includes all household members.
Unfortunately, members have much less control over the process, and can’t pick their aircraft of choice, as this depends on availability. You’re also limited to transportation to the nearest hospital regardless of your preference. Medjet is a better choice if you want more control over your experience and relocation to a hospital of your choosing.
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The AMCN webpage has several customer testimonials, and one user, thankful for his timely helicopter evacuation and medical support, emphatically recommends the service to those who live in rural communities and may not have ready access to medical services in town. He thanked AMCN by saying, “I had a fighting chance with y’all that day.”
Med-Trans may have the most straightforward and most transparent pricing structure on this list, making it easy to budget for the expense and even save money over other alternatives like Medjet. Here are pricing details for each plan:
International SOS has an extensive global footprint, providing both medical and security assistance to travelers. The company services over 1,200 locations in 90 countries with a team of about 13,000 experts worldwide. You can also add optional insurance to cover medical expenses and talk to the team at any time for referrals, advice, and logistical support with lost documents.
International SOS helps you get to the nearest hospital for treatment, and can transport you home once you’re stable. Medjet’s protection only begins once you’re admitted to the hospital. International SOS offers security evacuation in its base plan, but you’ll need to pay for the premium Medjet Horizon to unlock this feature.
Round-the-clock support and robust emergency assistance make International SOS ideal for business travelers who need real-time security. Expats and long-term travelers can take advantage of broad global coverage no matter where they go. Extended family services include child care and transport, giving parents peace of mind.
International SOS offers memberships that cover both medical and security evacuations, which is especially helpful for frequent travelers who may find themselves in a variety of global contexts. In this way, its offerings are more robust than Medjet’s.
Since the International SOS program is needs-based, the company’s doctors make the call on when it’s medically necessary to relocate patients, so it’s not designed for those who want to choose where they receive treatment. And since pricing is quote-based, it can be challenging to understand the membership costs.
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International SOS has received mixed reviews on Trustpilot, with one user reporting high responsiveness:
“I was on a business trip and got a bad chest infection. Called the assistance center, spoke with a nurse who found an appointment with a doctor the same day. Very reactive.”
Price: Quote-based
Instead of flat-rate memberships, International SOS prices memberships based on individual quotes, and you can use it quote form to see plans and prices available for your trip. You need to share the following for an accurate quote:
The Travel Guard MedEvac Plan is a travel insurance policy that offers medical coverage and air evacuation services. It brings members to the nearest equipped medical facility, and eventually home, if necessary. Travel Guard programs have supported millions of travelers globally and are a well-known name in the medical transportation space.
Your insurance plan may cover medical expenses alongside evacuation services, and you can elect for additional add-ons like security, medical, cancellation or rental vehicle damage coverage. It’s one of the most customizable options that ensures you have the specific protections you need.
The Travel Guard MedEvac Plan has well-rounded coverage for adventure travelers who may need multi-faceted protection, especially when opting into add-on offerings. Families can take advantage of the repatriation of minor children to their homes and arrange a bedside companion to keep loved ones connected.
If you travel frequently or for extended periods, you’ll benefit from single-trip coverage lasting up to a full year and annual plans available for multiple trips.
Since the Travel Guard MedEvac Plan is an insurance offering, it can help you cover medical bills while supporting you with emergency transportation services, all within a bundled membership. This is great for travelers who want a comprehensive solution in a streamlined form.
If you’re set on choosing the hospital where you’ll receive treatment, regardless of your medical status, you may be unhappy with Travel Guard placing you in the nearest available medical facility. In this case, Medjet offers more flexibility and control for its members with hospital-of-choice privileges.
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Travel Guard is accredited by the BBB with an A+ rating. There are mixed reviews from users on Trustpilot, with some people reporting quick cancellation resolution, and others reporting slow responses on claims. One member shared a mixed review:
“Coverage is decent and they provided assistance when I was stuck overseas. Could be faster on reimbursements.”
There is no direct pricing on the Travel Guard website. Instead, you’ll need to fill out a form with your trip’s details to receive a personalized quote based on your travel needs. While pricing will vary, there are five plans to choose from:
After reviewing this travel assistance company comparison guide, it’s time to make a choice that best fits your travel needs. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind to ensure you select a compatible plan.
Emergency assistance needs to be reliable if you happen to find yourself in a worst-case scenario, which means it’s essential to find real-life experiences and reviews that can help you determine a service’s reliability. Research beyond a brand’s testimonials and look for recent mentions on forums and third-party review sites.
EA+ reviews are positive overall, and the company has built a strong reputation with decades of committed service to travelers, establishing the standard for reliable, professional medical emergency services.
Learn moreMedical evacuation and repatriation services may seem straightforward at first glance, but there may be restrictive terms in the fine print. Some companies have age limits, require medical questionnaires, and may have exclusions for those traveling with pre-existing conditions.
Those seeking travel insurance for seniors and travelers with medical histories find EA+ to be accessible and flexible with its clear membership terms, no age restrictions, and no pre-existing condition exclusions.
Your service’s benefits may not kick in until you’ve met certain requirements. Some companies have a waiting period for pre-existing conditions or recent hospitalizations, which means travelers have to book well in advance to be eligible for medical transportation and care.
Consider distance-based requirements as well, as many companies won’t provide services unless members are 100+ miles away from their permanent residence.
If you travel with your family, look for a plan that accommodates family members and fellow travelers, not just the patient. Many companies can arrange for a round-trip flight that allows a companion to support an injured member if they cannot immediately return home.
Another significant benefit for families is logistical support for minors and travel companions who need to return home. If an accident may jeopardize your group travel, confirm that your chosen plan offers extended family protection.
Each program has its boundaries, and you may not be protected if you engage in adventure travel, visit war zones, plan to go mountaineering, or are traveling on behalf of a professional sport. Double-check your itinerary alongside a support agent before selecting a membership to make sure all your planned activities are included.
Small add-ons can be big lifesavers in an emergency, so look for any additional perks that are either included in a base plan or available for purchase. Additional services may include legal support, vehicle transportation, travel disruption, and cancellation protection or pet care.
When weighing the many Medjet alternatives, remember that the best choice is the one that accommodates your unique travel style. For simple pricing structures and real-time logistics and support, EA+ makes emergency medical transportation services easy.
Whether you’re an adventure traveler or headed to a family reunion, EA+ offers value-packed features like nurse escorts, travel companion support, and much more.
Ready to secure your next adventure with a membership? Enroll now so you’re protected long before an emergency strikes.
Enroll nowAir evac insurance may be worth it if you travel to remote or rural areas with limited medical care, engage in high-risk or adventure travel, or have health needs that necessitate quick access to your usual doctor.
If you’re an AARP member, you can save up to 20% on Medjet memberships. On AARP’s offer page, a short-term membership is $85 (usually $99), individual memberships are $275 (usually $315), and family plans are $375 (usually $425).
EA+ and Medject offer similar services. However, Medjet offers hospital-of-choice air transportation services that require members to be 150 or more miles from their home to receive services. EA+ doesn’t have this requirement, so you can activate emergency support at any time.
The cost of a medical jet varies widely depending on the distance it flies, the type of aircraft, and the patient’s medical and crew-based needs. However, costs are generally high—a single flight can total between $30,000 and $250,000.
Bryanna has been with Emergency Assistance Plus (EA+) for nearly 20 years, starting in customer service and now, as Senior Product Manager, she is responsible for member experience – including ensuring that the services EA+ provides continues to meet the evolving needs of EA+ members. Bryanna is passionate about EA+ members and making sure that Emergency Assistance Plus delivers on its brand promise to get members home safely in their time of need.
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