When planning an upcoming vacation, sometimes you need to make a few purchases. Whether it’s a suitcase, hiking boots for a long trek or a new camera to better capture the scenery, you might end up spending a good amount of money. So what happens if your suitcase handle breaks or your camera is stolen? Are you just out of luck?

Not if you have a credit card with purchase protection. This benefit can help you repair, replace or receive reimbursement for an eligible item if it’s damaged, stolen or left behind — as long as you’ve paid for it with your card. Purchase protection comes with all Chase credit cards, including travel credit cards.

Here's what you need to know about Chase purchase protection and how it can help when things go awry at home or abroad.

What is Chase purchase protection?

This coverage protects cardholders against theft or damage of items purchased with a Chase credit card within the past 120 days.

Additionally, you may also be covered if you accidentally leave an item behind somewhere. If you forget your Kindle in a hotel room in Budapest and you’re now back home, you may be able to recoup your costs as long as it’s a recent purchase. Purchase protection will cover "unintended separation from personal items," which is when you know the item's location, but getting it back is impractical. However, if you lose an item on a trip and you have no idea where it is, Chase's purchase protection policy won't cover it.

While all Chase cards have purchase protection, the reimbursement amount varies depending on your card. Each card offers a maximum benefit amount per claim as well as a maximum benefit amount per year or account.

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Who is covered?

You're covered if you have a Chase card that was issued in the U.S. and you charge all or a portion of the cost of the eligible item to that card. You’re also eligible if you pay for the item using Chase Ultimate Rewards® points associated with your account.

Additionally, if you purchase a gift for someone using your card, the recipient is also covered in case the item is damaged or stolen.

What’s included with coverage

There are many types of purchases that are eligible for purchase protection benefits, but it’s important to be aware of what’s covered — and what’s not — before you assume something is protected.

Personal purchases made with your Chase credit card or rewards program are covered, no matter if you’re in the U.S. or elsewhere in the world. Likewise, purchases made as gifts for friends or family are also covered under the protection plan.

Chase also will cover the outstanding deductible you owe after first filing a claim for your item with another insurance provider.

What’s excluded from coverage

Unfortunately, Chase purchase protection doesn’t cover all purchases, and there is a long list of exclusions. It’s always important to look through your benefits plan before starting your trip to find out what might not be covered.

The following are some examples of items that typically aren’t covered:

Tickets, including train, bus or plane tickets.

Traveler’s checks.

Antiques and collectibles.

Computer software.

Motorized vehicles or accessories, such as motorbikes or RVs.

Perishable or consumable items, such as perfume, alcohol or cosmetics.

Items confiscated by authorities or customs agents.

Theft or damage due to war, rebellion or terrorist activities.

Additionally, items that are under the control of a common carrier, such as an airplane, train or bus, aren't protected. This includes checked baggage and any other items that aren't under your direct supervision.