- The Best Travel Insurance for Thailand
- Is it currently safe to travel to Thailand?
- Travel insurance requirements for Thailand visas
- Why Take Out Travel Insurance for Thailand?
- Travel insurance coverage for Thailand
- The cost of travel insurance for Thailand
- Paying Less for Travel Insurance to Thailand
- Insurance coverage in Thailand: What you need to know
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Thailand: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Thailand covers medical emergencies, accidents, trip interruptions, and assistance while abroad.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers but is strongly recommended due to healthcare costs and risks.
3. Healthcare cost: Private hospital stays in Thailand can cost US travelers from $100 to $300 per night.
4. Price: Basic travel insurance for a one-week Thailand trip costs around $15 to $40 per person.
5. Good to know: Many US health insurance policies do not cover expenses or medical evacuations while traveling abroad, including Thailand.
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 Thailand.
The Best Travel Insurance for Thailand
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium |
| Our top choice for Thailand, offering extensive coverage and flexibility. - high medical limit - repatriation included - strong travel assistance |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 |
| Excellent for travelers needing reliable support and rapid response. - 24/7 helpline - cancellation cover - user-friendly conditions |
| Tourist Card |
| Well-suited for tourism in Thailand, with solid essential protection. - adequate medical cover - emergency assistance - good value |
| Travel Pass Monde |
| A strong contract for travelers seeking security away from home. - repatriation covered - hospital costs - broad geographical coverage |
| Globe Partner |
| A dependable solution for international travel basics. - medical care abroad - repatriation - civil liability protection |
| Globe Traveller |
| Affordable for short or lower-risk trips to Thailand. - essential medical cover - fast reimbursement - limited ceiling |
- $1.0M
- high medical limit
- repatriation included
- strong travel assistance
- $1.0M
- 24/7 helpline
- cancellation cover
- user-friendly conditions
- $0.5M
- adequate medical cover
- emergency assistance
- good value
- $0.7M
- repatriation covered
- hospital costs
- broad geographical coverage
- $0.3M
- medical care abroad
- repatriation
- civil liability protection
- $0.5M
- essential medical cover
- fast reimbursement
- limited ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Thailand?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to exercise normal precautions when visiting Thailand, noting that overall safety conditions remain favorable nationwide. However, increased caution is recommended in some southern provinces due to isolated security incidents.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: while most areas are safe, the provinces of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla face periodic violence related to unrest. For example, localized attacks and roadside incidents have occurred in these regions.
- Health risks: major cities provide good access to medical care, but outside urban areas, facilities may be limited and English-speaking medical staff are rare. During the February–April burning season in the north, air pollution can worsen respiratory conditions.
- Legal constraints: strict rules apply to prescription medication imports, and travelers have faced penalties for bringing in certain drugs, including common ADHD medications. It is also illegal to disrespect the monarchy, which can result in severe prison sentences.
- Cultural norms: public display of affection is discouraged, particularly in temples and rural communities. Touching someone’s head, considered sacred in Thai culture, is taboo and may be seen as disrespectful.
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 Thailand.
Travel insurance requirements for Thailand visas
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers to obtain a visa to go to Thailand.
However, it is strongly recommended because medical providers in Thailand require payment up front, and the US Embassy cannot cover these costs. Health care expenses, medical evacuation, and possible repatriation can be significant, especially outside major cities.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Thailand. This is mainly due to the expense of emergency health care and the limited support US citizens may receive in some regions.
Why Take Out Travel Insurance for Thailand?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Thailand.
Private hospitals in Bangkok such as Bumrungrad International Hospital or Samitivej Sukhumvit are among the most advanced in Southeast Asia, but their prices are high and payment is required in advance. Public hospitals can be crowded and have limited English-speaking staff, especially outside tourist areas. Foreigners rarely have access to subsidized public care and usually use private facilities, which can be expensive.
Travel insurance covers medical expenses, hospitalization, medications, ambulance transportation, and emergency repatriation to the US in case of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Thailand.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Bumrungrad International Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 80,000 THB (2,200 USD) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 60,000 THB (1,650 USD) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 1,000,000 THB (27,500 USD) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 250,000 THB (6,800 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 Thailand
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Thailand.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital, specialist fees, surgery, and prescribed medications. Recommended limit: at least $100,000 due to high private clinic costs in Thailand. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Pays for medically necessary transportation or return to the US for treatment after a serious illness or accident. Recommended limit: at least $200,000. |
| 🛏️ Hospitalization | Includes all hospital costs and services (room, nursing, surgery). Recommended limit: at least $50,000. |
| 💊 Emergency dental care | Covers urgent dental treatment following an accident or infection. Recommended limit: at least $1,000. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation or interruption | Reimburses lost non-refundable expenses (hotels, flights) in case of illness or serious family event. Recommended limit: at least $2,000 per person. |
| 🎒 Baggage and personal effects loss/theft | Compensates for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and valuables. Recommended limit: $1,500 per trip. |
| ⚖️ Civil liability | Protects if you unintentionally cause damage to others or property. Recommended limit: at least $50,000. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Assistance and 24/7 support | Offers round-the-clock multilingual assistance in emergencies. No dollar limit, but ensure this service is included. |
Recommended limit: at least $100,000 due to high private clinic costs in Thailand.
Recommended limit: at least $200,000.
Recommended limit: at least $50,000.
Recommended limit: at least $1,000.
Recommended limit: at least $2,000 per person.
Recommended limit: $1,500 per trip.
Recommended limit: at least $50,000.
No dollar limit, but ensure this service is included.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards usually comes with limited coverage, low reimbursement limits, and many exclusions. For peace of mind, choose a trusted insurer with full coverage and compare the best options on HelloSafe to subscribe online and receive instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Thailand
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $23 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $37 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $57 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $135 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of travel insurance is influenced by several factors: age of the traveler, trip duration, destination, type of coverage, and cancellation options. Highest risk or longer trips usually mean higher prices. It's essential to keep these factors in mind when comparing policies, so you select the right coverage at a price that matches your specific needs.
💡 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 comparePaying Less for Travel Insurance to Thailand
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Thailand while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧳 Trip duration | The longer the stay, the higher the premium, especially for holidays over several weeks. | Choose coverage just for your actual travel dates, not more, to avoid extra cost. |
| 👤 Traveler's age | Insurance rates usually rise for older travelers. | Heymondo does not raise prices for travelers over 62, making it cost-effective for seniors. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Higher reimbursement limits raise the price but may be necessary due to private hospital costs. | Select a policy with essential coverages but avoid excessive benefit amounts you do not need. |
| 🚫 Activities covered | Adventure sports and certain activities are common but increase risk and cost. | Only add sports or activities you truly plan to do. Exclude unnecessary options. |
| 🗺️ Geographical scope | Worldwide coverage costs more. Thailand-only is generally sufficient for single-country trips. | Pick a Thailand-only or Southeast Asia policy if you will not visit other countries. |
| 👥 Number of travelers | Family or group insurance may offer discounts compared to separate individual plans. | Compare family or group offers if traveling with others, as it may reduce costs per person. |
| 💳 Payment terms | Annual multi-trip coverage is sometimes cheaper than multiple single-trip policies. | If you travel often, compare annual plans with single-trip to see which is cheaper for you. |
Insurance coverage in Thailand: What you need to know
It is completely reasonable to question whether your current coverage—such as credit card insurance or a public health plan—can protect you while traveling in Thailand. Unfortunately, these options often offer limited or insufficient coverage. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Thailand? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage for any healthcare costs outside the US or its territories | Travel insurance covers up to $500,000 or more in medical care and emergency repatriation |
| Private health insurance (Aetna, Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical, reimbursement often up to $50,000, usually excludes medical evacuation, trip cancellation, or lost luggage | Travel insurance covers $100,000-$1,000,000, includes hospital fees, repatriation, and baggage/trip interruption |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover) | Yes, partly | Accident/medical up to $2,500–$10,000, may not cover evacuation, delays, or trip cancellation | Travel insurance covers $100,000+, evacuation, hospital stays, cancellation, and round-the-clock assistance |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Citi Prestige) | Yes, partly | Medical costs up to $100,000, limited delay/loss benefits, stricter requirements for claim approval | Travel insurance reimburses $500,000+, covers pre-existing conditions and 24/7 worldwide emergency support |
Example
On vacation in Thailand, John suffered a motorcycle accident, needing emergency surgery in Bangkok costing $18,000. His Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card only reimbursed $2,500, and his U.S. health insurance barely contributed due to international restrictions. John had to cover more than $15,000 out of pocket—turning his holiday into a financial nightmare.
Expert advice
Always review your insurance’s terms, exclusions, and limits. Critical scenarios, like trip interruption due to a family member’s illness or death, might not be covered. Carefully read the conditions to prevent unpleasant surprises during your trip. For full peace of mind, purchasing specialized travel insurance tailored to your journey is safest and most reassuring.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Thailand?
US citizens do not need a visa for tourism stays up to 60 days in Thailand but must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond entry. Pre-arrival online registration may be required before travel. For longer stays, work, or business, the appropriate Thai visa must be obtained.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Thailand?
Start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully check what each policy covers and excludes, with special attention to protections for Thailand, such as motorcycle coverage and medical evacuation. Purchase your preferred plan online, then receive your travel insurance certificate by email.
What medical coverage should I have for Thailand?
Medical care in Thai cities is good but can be expensive for foreigners. It is recommended to have at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage, including medical evacuation. Check that your insurance covers risky activities like riding scooters, a common cause of accidents among tourists.
Does travel insurance cover natural disasters in Thailand?
Travel insurance policies usually cover emergency treatment and evacuation if you are affected by events such as floods, earthquakes, or typhoons. Always verify that natural disasters are not excluded from your policy and confirm the reimbursement limits for evacuation costs.
Can I extend my travel insurance if I stay in Thailand longer?
Most insurers let you extend your coverage online before your original policy expires, provided you have not made a claim. This may require an additional premium and offer the same or adjusted coverage limits. Always confirm extension terms with your insurer before travel.
What is excluded from most travel insurance policies for Thailand?
Policies often exclude incidents relating to pre-existing conditions, injuries from risky activities not declared when buying, losses from illegal acts, or claims made in regions with official travel advisories. Carefully read the terms and exclusions of any plan before purchasing.
Do I need a visa to travel to Thailand?
US citizens do not need a visa for tourism stays up to 60 days in Thailand but must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond entry. Pre-arrival online registration may be required before travel. For longer stays, work, or business, the appropriate Thai visa must be obtained.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Thailand?
Start by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully check what each policy covers and excludes, with special attention to protections for Thailand, such as motorcycle coverage and medical evacuation. Purchase your preferred plan online, then receive your travel insurance certificate by email.
What medical coverage should I have for Thailand?
Medical care in Thai cities is good but can be expensive for foreigners. It is recommended to have at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage, including medical evacuation. Check that your insurance covers risky activities like riding scooters, a common cause of accidents among tourists.
Does travel insurance cover natural disasters in Thailand?
Travel insurance policies usually cover emergency treatment and evacuation if you are affected by events such as floods, earthquakes, or typhoons. Always verify that natural disasters are not excluded from your policy and confirm the reimbursement limits for evacuation costs.
Can I extend my travel insurance if I stay in Thailand longer?
Most insurers let you extend your coverage online before your original policy expires, provided you have not made a claim. This may require an additional premium and offer the same or adjusted coverage limits. Always confirm extension terms with your insurer before travel.
What is excluded from most travel insurance policies for Thailand?
Policies often exclude incidents relating to pre-existing conditions, injuries from risky activities not declared when buying, losses from illegal acts, or claims made in regions with official travel advisories. Carefully read the terms and exclusions of any plan before purchasing.
On the same topic
