What are the best travel insurances for American Samoa in 2025?
- The best travel insurance plans for American Samoa
- Is it currently safe to travel to American Samoa?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter American Samoa?
- Why take out travel insurance for American Samoa?
- Travel Insurance Coverage for American Samoa
- The Cost of Travel Insurance for American Samoa
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to American Samoa
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in American Samoa?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for American Samoa: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for American Samoa covers medical emergencies, trip issues, and potential medical evacuation.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is highly recommended due to limited local medical facilities.
3. Healthcare cost: Medical facilities are limited, and an emergency medical evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance plan for American Samoa typically costs between $30 and $70.
5. Good to know: American Samoa has its own entry rules; US citizens need a passport or birth certificate.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for American Samoa.
The best travel insurance plans for American Samoa
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1M | Our recommendation for American Samoa. - high medical ceiling - evacuation included - strong assistance |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1M | A robust plan combining flexible guarantees and responsive service. - 24/7 medical helpline - repatriation - simple conditions |
| Tourist Card | $500K | Trusted for tourism stays with solid protection. - strong medical cover - emergency support - affordable option |
| Travel Pass Monde | $700K | A balanced solution for trips abroad. - covers hospital costs - repatriation - broad territorial scope |
| Globe Partner | $300K | Suited for longer stays or multi-territory travel. - essential medical care - repatriation - civil liability included |
| Globe Traveller | $500K | Good for short trips to American Samoa. - core medical guarantee - fast reimbursement - practical ceiling |
- high medical ceiling
- evacuation included
- strong assistance
- 24/7 medical helpline
- repatriation
- simple conditions
- strong medical cover
- emergency support
- affordable option
- covers hospital costs
- repatriation
- broad territorial scope
- essential medical care
- repatriation
- civil liability included
- core medical guarantee
- fast reimbursement
- practical ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to American Samoa?
As of June 2025, the U.S. Department of State and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention state that travel to American Samoa is permitted with no official warning or restriction in place.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: American Samoa is generally safe with low levels of crime, but incidents such as theft from unlocked vehicles or hotel rooms can occur. In Pago Pago, travelers should remain vigilant in crowded public areas and avoid leaving valuables unattended.
- Health risks: Dengue fever and Zika virus are present year-round and mosquito bites are the primary risk, especially after heavy rainfall or during local outbreaks. The territory is on global alert for measles, so travelers must be up-to-date with vaccines before arrival.
- Environmental concerns: Cyclone season runs from November through April and can disrupt travel plans. Local infrastructure—including roads and power supply—may be affected during storms and recovery can take time, as seen after Cyclone Gita in 2018.
- Legal requirements: American Samoa operates its own immigration system. U.S. citizens need either a valid passport or a certified birth certificate and must provide evidence of an onward ticket. Entry is granted for 30 days, with possible extension upon application.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the U.S. Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in American Samoa.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter American Samoa?
Travel insurance is not legally mandatory for travelers from the US to enter American Samoa.
However, it is strongly recommended due to the limited medical facilities on the islands and the potential need for costly medical evacuation to another country. Travel insurance provides crucial coverage for medical expenses, emergency care, and repatriation if a serious issue arises.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to American Samoa. This is primarily because local healthcare is limited and emergency evacuation can result in very high expenses.
Why take out travel insurance for American Samoa?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to American Samoa.
Medical care in American Samoa is mainly provided by the Lyndon B. Johnson Tropical Medical Center in Pago Pago, which has limited facilities and resources, especially for specialized treatments, surgery, or intensive care. For serious injuries or illness, patients are often evacuated to Hawaii or New Zealand, resulting in very high costs.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in American Samoa.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Lyndon B. Johnson Tropical Medical Center | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 2,000 USD | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 1,200 USD | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 40,000 USD | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 5,500 USD | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
Travel Insurance Coverage for American Samoa
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital stays, doctor visits, and treatment for illness or injury. We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000 due to limited medical facilities in American Samoa. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays the cost of evacuation to another location for emergency care if needed. We advise a minimum reimbursement of $150,000 given the remoteness and flight costs from American Samoa. |
| 🛄 Baggage insurance | Protects against loss, theft, or damage to luggage. A suggested reimbursement limit is at least $1,000 per traveler, accounting for flight and handling risks. |
| ❌ Trip cancellation | Reimburses costs if you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to covered reasons. A recommended amount is $3,000 based on typical airfares and accommodation in American Samoa. |
| 📞 24/7 assistance | Provides round-the-clock emergency support, including help with medical or logistical problems. Global, continuous support is essential, especially for travel to island territories. |
| 💊 Emergency medications | Covers the cost of necessary prescription medications if you run out or lose them while traveling. A minimum limit of $1,000 offers basic security for emergency supplies. |
| 👨⚖️ Personal liability | Pays if you accidentally injure someone or damage property. Opt for at least $25,000 in coverage due to exposure to public or rental property risks. |
We recommend a minimum reimbursement limit of $100,000 due to limited medical facilities in American Samoa.
We advise a minimum reimbursement of $150,000 given the remoteness and flight costs from American Samoa.
A suggested reimbursement limit is at least $1,000 per traveler, accounting for flight and handling risks.
A recommended amount is $3,000 based on typical airfares and accommodation in American Samoa.
Global, continuous support is essential, especially for travel to island territories.
A minimum limit of $1,000 offers basic security for emergency supplies.
Opt for at least $25,000 in coverage due to exposure to public or rental property risks.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards usually comes with limited coverage, lower reimbursement limits, and more exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with comprehensive protection. Compare the best options on HelloSafe and sign up online for instant proof of coverage.
The Cost of Travel Insurance for American Samoa
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $37 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $62 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $105 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $172 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of travel insurance depends on several factors: the traveler’s age, trip duration, destination, coverage limits, and options such as trip cancellation. Since medical facilities in American Samoa are limited, it's vital to keep these in mind to choose the right policy and avoid unexpected costs for emergencies.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to American Samoa
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to American Samoa while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Medical facilities in American Samoa are limited compared to the mainland; medical evacuation may be required. | Choose a policy that emphasizes medical and evacuation coverage while excluding less relevant extras. |
| 🕓 Trip duration | Longer trips cost more. Insuring the exact travel dates saves money and avoids unused coverage. | Only buy coverage for your confirmed travel dates to avoid paying too much. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Family/group plans | Family or group insurance can lower the overall premium per person. | Opt for group policies if traveling with family or friends to benefit from group discounts. |
| 👵 Traveler's age | Age often determines the price of insurance, especially for older travelers. | Compare insurers by age band. The insurer Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🏄 Planned activities | Adventure or sports may incur higher premiums if included broadly, but may not be necessary for your trip. | Include only the activities you actually plan to do in American Samoa to avoid extra cost. |
| 🧳 Baggage protection | Luggage loss is rare but possible; consider your needs to avoid unnecessary baggage cover. | Select only the minimum baggage coverage if traveling with little or irreplaceable items. |
| 🇺🇸 Local vs. international | U.S. health insurance may offer some coverage domestically but typically not for emergency evacuation from American Samoa. | Check whether your domestic plan extends to American Samoa. If not, prioritize evacuation and overseas care coverage. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in American Samoa?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current coverage, like public health insurance or credit card insurance, will protect you during a trip to American Samoa. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient and may not address key needs such as medical evacuation or trip interruption. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in American Samoa? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | Yes, partly | Routine care may apply but emergency evacuation and repatriation are not covered. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for hospitalization, evacuation, and more. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Some emergency care, possibly after pre-authorization. No trip delay, baggage loss, or evacuation. | Travel insurance covers $250,000+ with 24/7 support and evacuation benefits. |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Wells Fargo Active Cash, Citi Simplicity) | Yes, partly | Medical expenses up to $5,000, usually excludes evacuation or trip cancellation/luggage cover. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ and adds trip and baggage guarantees. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Mastercard World Elite) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical up to $25,000, limited trip or luggage delay coverage. | Travel insurance covers medical $250,000+ plus comprehensive standard benefits. |
Example
While snorkeling in Pago Pago, David suffered a severe coral cut leading to a serious infection. A necessary medical evacuation to Honolulu cost $50,000. His PPO health plan considered the air ambulance out-of-network, and his American Express card's travel protection was capped at $1,500, leaving him with a $48,500 bill.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to American Samoa?
U.S. citizens and nationals do not need a visa to travel to American Samoa. You must present a valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate showing U.S. nationality. Proof of onward travel or local employment is also required. Tourist stays are limited to 30 days, with extension options available upon approval.
How do I purchase travel insurance for American Samoa?
To purchase travel insurance for American Samoa, begin by comparing available plans with the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the details and exclusions, focusing on coverage specific to American Samoa, such as medical evacuation and tropical illness protection. Once you decide, make your purchase online. You will receive your insurance certificate by email or digital download.
Are medical evacuation costs covered by travel insurance for American Samoa?
Most travel insurance plans for American Samoa offer optional coverage for medical evacuation, which is recommended due to limited local hospital facilities. Medical evacuation to Hawaii or the mainland U.S. can cost more than $25,000 if not covered by insurance, so verify this benefit in your policy before travel.
Does travel insurance cover outbreaks like measles or dengue in American Samoa?
Many travel insurance plans include medical treatment for illnesses contracted while abroad, including measles and dengue. However, you should review exclusions related to already-known outbreaks or pre-existing conditions and confirm that hospitalization and evacuation coverage apply in case of disease outbreaks during your stay.
Are there any health requirements for travelers visiting American Samoa?
While there are no mandatory vaccines for direct arrivals from the U.S., it is strongly advised to be current on routine vaccinations, including MMR for measles and hepatitis A and B. Using mosquito protection is also important to guard against dengue and Zika, both of which occur in American Samoa.
How much does travel insurance for American Samoa typically cost?
Travel insurance for American Samoa usually ranges from $3 to $10 per day, depending on traveler age, trip duration, and the level of coverage you select. Plans with higher medical and evacuation limits will cost more but can provide important financial protection in unexpected situations.
Do I need a visa to travel to American Samoa?
U.S. citizens and nationals do not need a visa to travel to American Samoa. You must present a valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate showing U.S. nationality. Proof of onward travel or local employment is also required. Tourist stays are limited to 30 days, with extension options available upon approval.
How do I purchase travel insurance for American Samoa?
To purchase travel insurance for American Samoa, begin by comparing available plans with the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the details and exclusions, focusing on coverage specific to American Samoa, such as medical evacuation and tropical illness protection. Once you decide, make your purchase online. You will receive your insurance certificate by email or digital download.
Are medical evacuation costs covered by travel insurance for American Samoa?
Most travel insurance plans for American Samoa offer optional coverage for medical evacuation, which is recommended due to limited local hospital facilities. Medical evacuation to Hawaii or the mainland U.S. can cost more than $25,000 if not covered by insurance, so verify this benefit in your policy before travel.
Does travel insurance cover outbreaks like measles or dengue in American Samoa?
Many travel insurance plans include medical treatment for illnesses contracted while abroad, including measles and dengue. However, you should review exclusions related to already-known outbreaks or pre-existing conditions and confirm that hospitalization and evacuation coverage apply in case of disease outbreaks during your stay.
Are there any health requirements for travelers visiting American Samoa?
While there are no mandatory vaccines for direct arrivals from the U.S., it is strongly advised to be current on routine vaccinations, including MMR for measles and hepatitis A and B. Using mosquito protection is also important to guard against dengue and Zika, both of which occur in American Samoa.
How much does travel insurance for American Samoa typically cost?
Travel insurance for American Samoa usually ranges from $3 to $10 per day, depending on traveler age, trip duration, and the level of coverage you select. Plans with higher medical and evacuation limits will cost more but can provide important financial protection in unexpected situations.
