What Are the Best Travel Insurance Options for the Philippines in 2025?
- The best travel insurance for the Philippines
- Is it currently safe to travel to the Philippines?
- Is travel insurance required for a visa to the Philippines?
- Why take out travel insurance for the Philippines?
- Coverage included in travel insurance for the Philippines
- The cost of travel insurance for Philippines
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Philippines?
- Can you rely on your current insurance in the Philippines?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Philippines: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for the Philippines covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel disruptions.
2. Warning: The U.S. State Department advises increased caution and warns against travel to certain southern regions.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for entry, but it is highly recommended for financial protection.
4. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is costly; a hospital stay can easily exceed $500 per night for foreigners.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for the Philippines typically costs between $30 and $60.
6. Good to know: Coverage for natural disasters and medical evacuation from remote islands is particularly important.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for the Philippines.
The best travel insurance for the Philippines
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1M | Our recommendation for safe travel to Philippines. - high medical coverage - includes evacuation - wide range of guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1M | Most suitable for hassle-free short trips. - 24/7 emergency support - hospital costs included - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $500k | Good option for leisure trips with solid protection. - strong medical cover - assistance services - traveler-friendly pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $700k | Well-balanced plan for diverse travelers to Philippines. - repatriation included - reliable overseas support - flexible options |
| Globe Partner | $300k | Suitable for international visits, essential for basics. - medical abroad - civil liability - simple claims process |
| Globe Traveller | $500k | Affordable solution for short stays and low risks. - emergency medical cover - fast reimbursements - limited maximum |
- high medical coverage
- includes evacuation
- wide range of guarantees
- 24/7 emergency support
- hospital costs included
- no deductible
- strong medical cover
- assistance services
- traveler-friendly pricing
- repatriation included
- reliable overseas support
- flexible options
- medical abroad
- civil liability
- simple claims process
- emergency medical cover
- fast reimbursements
- limited maximum
Is it currently safe to travel to the Philippines?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State maintains a Level 2: exercise increased caution advisory for travelers to Philippines, mainly due to ongoing security risks in several regions. Travel is not officially discouraged for the whole country, but strict warnings are in place for the Sulu Archipelago, southern Sulu Sea, and Marawi City (Level 4: do not travel), and much of Mindanao (Level 3: reconsider travel).
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: terrorism and kidnapping remain significant threats, particularly in Mindanao, the Sulu Archipelago, and Marawi City. For example, armed groups have been active near Zamboanga and Jolo, where foreign nationals have been targeted.
- Health risks: dengue, malaria, and other mosquito-borne diseases are common. For instance, outbreaks occur in both urban and rural areas, and medical care may be limited outside Manila.
- Legal requirements: carrying a valid photo ID at all times is mandatory. Visitors may be fined if unable to present identification when requested by authorities, especially at checkpoints.
- Urban safety concerns: petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, is prevalent in Manila and other major cities. Be aware of credit card fraud and only use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Philippines.
Is travel insurance required for a visa to the Philippines?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens traveling to the Philippines for tourist visits of less than 30 days.
Travel insurance remains highly recommended due to the risk of serious illnesses such as dengue, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as the potential for violent crime or accidents in certain areas. US health plans do not provide coverage in the Philippines, meaning medical treatment or evacuation can be very costly without insurance.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to the Philippines. This is because of health risks, limited emergency support in remote areas, and potentially high medical expenses.
Why take out travel insurance for the Philippines?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Philippines.
In the Philippines, high-quality health care is concentrated in private hospitals such as St. Luke’s Medical Center in Manila or Makati Medical Center, where foreign patients are often required to pay all fees up front. In rural provinces, facilities are limited and sometimes lack emergency equipment, increasing costs if transfer to a major city is necessary.
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 Philippines.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at St. Luke’s Medical Center | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | PHP 120,000 (approx. $2,100) | up to full reimbursement |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | PHP 65,000 (approx. $1,150) | up to full reimbursement |
| I need to be repatriated | PHP 1,700,000 (approx. $30,500) | up to full reimbursement |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | PHP 350,000 (approx. $6,300) | up to full reimbursement |
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.
Coverage included in travel insurance for the Philippines
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Philippines.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital visits, emergency care, and medications if you get sick or injured in the Philippines. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Arranges and pays for emergency transport to the US or nearest medical facility if needed. Minimum recommended limit: $200,000. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation or interruption | Reimburses non-refundable costs if you have to cancel or cut short your trip due to illness, accident, or emergencies. Limit should cover total trip value, usually $5,000–$10,000. |
| 🧳 Lost, stolen or delayed luggage | Covers the cost of replacing essentials if your bags are lost, stolen, or delayed. Suggested reimbursement: $1,500–$2,000 per person. |
| 💼 Personal liability | Pays for costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property during your stay. Minimum coverage should be $50,000. |
| 🦷 Dental emergencies | Covers urgent dental care needed due to injury or pain. Recommended limit is $750–$1,000. |
| 👨⚖️ Legal assistance | Support and fee coverage in case of legal issues or disputes in the Philippines. Suggested limit: $10,000. |
| 🕵️♂️ Assistance services | Provides 24/7 emergency help, guidance, and translation support. Amounts vary; choose a policy with robust assistance. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000.
Minimum recommended limit: $200,000.
Limit should cover total trip value, usually $5,000–$10,000.
Suggested reimbursement: $1,500–$2,000 per person.
Minimum coverage should be $50,000.
Recommended limit is $750–$1,000.
Suggested limit: $10,000.
Amounts vary; choose a policy with robust assistance.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often includes low limits and many exclusions. For better security, it is safer to select a trusted insurer with broad protection. Compare leading choices on HelloSafe and get instant certification online.
The cost of travel insurance for Philippines
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $15–$30 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $30–$55 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $48–$90 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $110–$210 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance policy is determined by several key elements. Be sure to consider the traveler's age, the length of your trip, your destination, the amount of coverage you select, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Keeping these factors in mind will help you find the best policy for your needs and budget.
💡 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 can you pay less for your travel insurance to Philippines?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Philippines while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 📆 Trip duration | The longer your trip to Philippines, the higher the insurance premium. | Buy coverage only for the actual length of your stay, rather than rounding up to longer periods. |
| 👤 Traveler’s age | Age usually influences travel insurance pricing for medical coverage in Philippines. | Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, which makes it worth considering for older travelers. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | High coverage is recommended for medical care or evacuation, but large limits increase your cost. | Select a coverage level based on your health needs and avoid paying for unnecessary high limits. |
| 👪 Group or family size | Insuring several people together can sometimes be cheaper per person in Philippines. | Look for family or group plans as they may offer additional savings compared to buying individual policies. |
| ✈️ Activities included | Adventure or high-risk activities like diving raise the cost if included in your Philippines plan. | Skip extra coverage if you do not plan to participate in risky or adventure activities. |
| 📲 Where you buy | Purchasing online is often cheaper than through a physical office or agent. | Always get quotes and purchase your plan online for immediate results and possible discounts. |
| 💵 Deductible amount | Increasing the deductible usually lowers the premium, meaning more out-of-pocket if you claim. | Choose the highest deductible amount you are comfortable paying to maximize your potential savings. |
Can you rely on your current insurance in the Philippines?
It’s completely legitimate to wonder if your current health coverage or credit card insurance might provide protection for your trip to the Philippines. Unfortunately, these options are often limited or insufficient outside the US.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Philippines? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for health expenses, hospitalization, or repatriation abroad. | Travel insurance reimburses $100,000+ for medical care and emergency repatriation. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Aetna, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Some emergency care, but excludes evacuation and baggage. Caps often set at $10,000. | Travel insurance covers evacuation, hospital stays, and disruption costs up to $100,000+. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical <$15,000. No baggage or trip cancellation, limited or no evacuation. | Travel insurance includes health, baggage, and cancellation up to $100,000+. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Citi Premier) | Yes, partly | Medical emergencies capped $50,000–$100,000. Moderate trip delay or baggage limits. | Travel insurance covers $250,000+ medical and $5,000+ trip cancellation, with real support. |
Example
After a scooter accident in Palawan, John's emergency surgery and medical evacuation to Manila cost $25,000. His Chase Sapphire card's travel insurance only covered $2,000. His standard US health plan considered the private hospital out-of-network, leaving him with a shocking $23,000 bill for his island adventure.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Key situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Philippines?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit the Philippines for up to 30 days for tourism purposes. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay and have sufficient blank pages for entry stamps. Longer stays require a visa from the Philippine consulate.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Philippines?
Start by comparing different providers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the coverage and exclusions, paying close attention to health coverage and exclusions for the Philippines, including medical evacuation. Purchase your chosen plan securely online. You will receive your insurance certificate immediately after purchase.
Are natural disasters covered by travel insurance in the Philippines?
Most comprehensive travel insurance plans cover emergencies related to typhoons, floods, and earthquakes, which can occur in the Philippines. Always verify the policy specifically covers natural disasters, as exclusions may apply. Insurers typically reimburse costs for delayed travel, medical emergencies, or evacuation due to natural events.
Will travel insurance cover medical emergencies and evacuation in the Philippines?
Travel insurance usually covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, and medical evacuation, which is important since high-quality medical care may be limited outside major cities. Standard policies offer benefits from $50,000 to $250,000. Confirm your plan includes coverage for medical evacuation and transportation back to the US if necessary.
What should I do if I need help during my trip to the Philippines?
If you experience an emergency, contact your travel insurer’s 24/7 assistance hotline for guidance. For lost passports, legal issues, or serious emergencies, reach out to the U.S. embassy in Manila. It is a good idea to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time alerts and faster assistance.
Does travel insurance for the Philippines cover theft or loss of belongings?
Most policies include reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings during your trip. Coverage limits vary, often $500 to $2,500 depending on your plan. Make sure to keep records and receipts of valuables, as insurers typically require documentation for claims.
Do I need a visa to travel to Philippines?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit the Philippines for up to 30 days for tourism purposes. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay and have sufficient blank pages for entry stamps. Longer stays require a visa from the Philippine consulate.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Philippines?
Start by comparing different providers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the coverage and exclusions, paying close attention to health coverage and exclusions for the Philippines, including medical evacuation. Purchase your chosen plan securely online. You will receive your insurance certificate immediately after purchase.
Are natural disasters covered by travel insurance in the Philippines?
Most comprehensive travel insurance plans cover emergencies related to typhoons, floods, and earthquakes, which can occur in the Philippines. Always verify the policy specifically covers natural disasters, as exclusions may apply. Insurers typically reimburse costs for delayed travel, medical emergencies, or evacuation due to natural events.
Will travel insurance cover medical emergencies and evacuation in the Philippines?
Travel insurance usually covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, and medical evacuation, which is important since high-quality medical care may be limited outside major cities. Standard policies offer benefits from $50,000 to $250,000. Confirm your plan includes coverage for medical evacuation and transportation back to the US if necessary.
What should I do if I need help during my trip to the Philippines?
If you experience an emergency, contact your travel insurer’s 24/7 assistance hotline for guidance. For lost passports, legal issues, or serious emergencies, reach out to the U.S. embassy in Manila. It is a good idea to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time alerts and faster assistance.
Does travel insurance for the Philippines cover theft or loss of belongings?
Most policies include reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings during your trip. Coverage limits vary, often $500 to $2,500 depending on your plan. Make sure to keep records and receipts of valuables, as insurers typically require documentation for claims.
