Best Travel Insurance for Vanuatu in 2025
- The best travel insurance plans for Vanuatu
- Is it currently safe to travel to Vanuatu?
- Is travel insurance required to enter Vanuatu?
- Why take out travel insurance for Vanuatu?
- What Travel Insurance for Vanuatu Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Vanuatu
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Vanuatu
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Vanuatu?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Vanuatu: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Vanuatu covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and repatriation for unexpected events.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory, but vital due to limited medical facilities and potential natural disasters.
3. Healthcare cost: Medical facilities are limited; medical evacuation can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Vanuatu typically costs between $30 and $60.
5. Good to know: Vanuatu is prone to cyclones and volcanic activity, so ensure your policy covers natural disasters.
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 everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Vanuatu.
The best travel insurance plans for Vanuatu
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.1M USD | Recommended for reliable cover in Vanuatu. - very high limit - evacuation and repatriation - good for areas with limited infrastructure |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.1M USD | Suitable for all travel types in Vanuatu. - 24/7 medical support - no deductible - covers trip cancellations |
| Tourist Card | 0.55M USD | For travelers seeking value and core protection. - solid medical cap - emergencies supported - affordable premium |
| Travel Pass Monde | 0.77M USD | Balanced choice for longer visits or active trips. - includes repatriation - hospital costs covered - broad destination coverage |
| Globe Partner | 0.33M USD | Option for longer stays or minimal trips. - essential medical guarantees - civil liability - simple reimbursement process |
| Globe Traveller | 0.55M USD | Good pick for short, low-risk travel in Vanuatu. - covers medical emergencies - quick claims - sufficient ceiling for basic needs |
- very high limit
- evacuation and repatriation
- good for areas with limited infrastructure
- 24/7 medical support
- no deductible
- covers trip cancellations
- solid medical cap
- emergencies supported
- affordable premium
- includes repatriation
- hospital costs covered
- broad destination coverage
- essential medical guarantees
- civil liability
- simple reimbursement process
- covers medical emergencies
- quick claims
- sufficient ceiling for basic needs
Is it currently safe to travel to Vanuatu?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State has set the travel advisory for Vanuatu at Level 1, advising normal precautions for travelers. No official warnings discourage US citizens from visiting the country.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: although Vanuatu is generally safe, incidents of theft, including pickpocketing at busy markets in Port Vila, have been reported. Stay alert and secure valuables, especially in crowded areas.
- Health risks: medical services are limited outside Port Vila and Luganville. In case of serious illness or injury, medical evacuation to Australia or New Zealand may be necessary.
- Environmental hazards: Vanuatu is highly prone to natural disasters such as cyclones from November to April and earthquakes year-round. Areas like Ambae and Ambrym Islands are subject to evacuation due to volcanic activity.
- Legal requirements: all visitors must present proof of full COVID-19 vaccination upon entry and show onward tickets. Penalties for drug offenses are severe and strictly enforced.
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 Vanuatu.
Is travel insurance required to enter Vanuatu?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers entering Vanuatu, whether for tourism or short stays under 30 days.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended because medical facilities outside Port Vila and Luganville are limited, and emergency evacuations can be expensive. Natural disasters such as cyclones and earthquakes are also possible during certain times of year, making comprehensive coverage beneficial.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Vanuatu. This high rate is due to the country’s exposure to severe weather and the significant cost of medical evacuation.
Why take out travel insurance for Vanuatu?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Vanuatu.
In Vanuatu, access to quality healthcare is limited, especially outside Port Vila and Luganville. Foreign visitors are often directed to private clinics such as Vila Central Hospital in Port Vila, where treatment costs can be high and evacuation to Australia or New Zealand may be necessary for serious conditions.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the United States in case of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Vanuatu.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Vila Central Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 150,000 VUV (about 1,250 USD) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 110,000 VUV (about 920 USD) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 3,200,000 VUV (about 26,600 USD) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 600,000 VUV (about 5,000 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.
What Travel Insurance for Vanuatu Should Cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, medications, and outpatient care if you fall ill or have an accident. Minimum recommended limit: $100,000 per trip. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Covers air or sea evacuation to the nearest qualified hospital or your home country when local care is inadequate. Minimum recommended limit: $250,000. |
| 🛫 Repatriation | Pays for return to the United States if medically necessary or in case of death. Minimum recommended limit: $100,000. |
| 🛄 Baggage insurance | Covers theft, loss, or damage to your checked or carry-on luggage. Recommended limit: $2,000 per traveler. |
| ❌ Trip cancellation/interruption | Reimburses prepaid costs if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to covered events (e.g., illness, disaster). Recommended limit: Total trip cost. |
| 💼 Personal liability | Provides protection if you accidentally injure someone or damage property. Recommended limit: $100,000. |
| 🏝️ Natural disaster coverage | Covers changes in plans, evacuation, or losses due to cyclones, earthquakes, or tsunamis. Minimum recommended limit: $10,000. |
| 🤿 Sports/adventure activities | Covers accidents that may occur during recreational diving, hiking, or boating. Ensure activities are included and consider a minimum of $50,000 coverage for accidents. |
Minimum recommended limit: $100,000 per trip.
Minimum recommended limit: $250,000.
Minimum recommended limit: $100,000.
Recommended limit: $2,000 per traveler.
Recommended limit: Total trip cost.
Recommended limit: $100,000.
Minimum recommended limit: $10,000.
Ensure activities are included and consider a minimum of $50,000 coverage for accidents.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often includes low coverage limits and many exclusions. For reliable protection, choose a specialized travel insurer with full coverage. You can easily compare the best options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The cost of travel insurance for Vanuatu
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $36 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $61 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $92 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $161 |
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 is influenced by several key elements: your age, the length of your trip, your destination, the level of coverage, and any add-ons like a cancellation option. Considering these factors is crucial to finding a policy that fits your needs and budget, ensuring you're properly protected without overpaying.
💡 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 Vanuatu
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Vanuatu while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical coverage | Essential in Vanuatu due to limited facilities, especially outside main cities. | Choose coverage for medical evacuation and emergencies, but avoid extras that do not fit your plans. |
| 🌪️ Natural disaster protection | Vanuatu is prone to cyclones and earthquakes, so protection for natural disasters is useful. | Select plans covering natural disasters, but compare limits and deductibles to find fair pricing. |
| 🏊♂️ Activity coverage | If you plan scuba diving or adventure tours, check for specific inclusions or restrictions. | Only add activity coverage if you plan those activities, skipping unnecessary options saves money. |
| 🎒 Trip duration | The longer your stay, the more risk exposure for the insurer, which can drive up costs. | Buy coverage just for your actual travel dates and avoid open-ended or significantly extended plans. |
| 👨👩👧👦 Group or family policy | Group policies often provide discounts and simplified administration for families or friends. | Opt for group or family insurance where possible, as these plans can lower the per-person rate. |
| 👤 Traveller’s age | Age influences pricing significantly, with higher premiums for older travelers. | Compare plans by age since Heymondo does not increase prices for travelers over 62. |
| 💸 Deductible and copayment | Higher deductibles lower premiums but raise out-of-pocket risk during a claim. | Choose a deductible you can pay in an emergency, but raising it moderately can reduce your premium. |
Important
Travel insurance is not required by law for US travelers to enter Vanuatu, but comprehensive medical coverage is strongly recommended due to limited facilities, mandatory evacuation insurance, and the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters.
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Vanuatu?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or private health insurance—can protect you during a trip to Vanuatu. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient, especially for medical evacuation or emergencies abroad. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of Insurance | Valid in Vanuatu? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | No, never | No overseas coverage. No reimbursement for care, hospitalization, or medical evacuation outside US. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for medical emergencies and includes evacuation. |
| Private health insurance | Yes, partly | Some global plans with limits, often up to $25,000. Usually excludes repatriation, adventure, and baggage. | Travel insurance pays $100,000+ for hospitalization and $5000+ for evacuation and lost baggage. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Discover) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical up to $5,000, often no trip cancellation, minimal baggage protection, no evacuation. | Travel insurance covers $100,000 or more with trip disruption and evacuation support included. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, Citi Prestige) | Yes, partly | Medical emergencies up to $25,000. Limited trip delay and baggage coverage. | Travel insurance offers $100,000+ medical plus broad disaster and adventure activity protections. |
Example
Diving in Vanuatu, Sarah suffered decompression sickness. The required medevac to Australia cost $75,000. Her Chase Sapphire card covered just $10,000, and her US health insurance denied the foreign evacuation claim. Sarah faced a sudden $65,000 bill, a devastating end to her dream trip.
Expert advice
Always check your existing insurance terms, exclusions, and limits. Critical 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 policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Vanuatu?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays in Vanuatu of up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, and you must show a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Vanuatu?
Begin by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully review the coverage and exclusions relevant to Vanuatu, such as medical evacuation and natural disaster coverage. Purchase your chosen plan online, and you will then receive your insurance certificate by email for your records.
What medical facilities are available in Vanuatu?
Medical services in Vanuatu are limited, especially outside of Port Vila and Luganville. Access to advanced care can be challenging, so emergency medical evacuation is often necessary in serious situations. Travel insurance with evacuation benefits is strongly recommended, as costs can easily exceed $30,000.
Are there risks associated with natural disasters in Vanuatu?
Yes, Vanuatu is prone to natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. Travelers should follow local news, be aware of potential evacuation orders, and ensure their travel insurance includes natural disaster coverage for interruptions and emergency departures.
Does travel insurance cover recreational activities in Vanuatu?
Many travel insurance policies provide coverage for common activities but may exclude certain adventure sports, such as scuba diving or volcano trekking. If you plan such activities, check that your policy covers them and any necessary equipment, as claims for injuries or cancellations may otherwise be denied.
Do I need a visa to travel to Vanuatu?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays in Vanuatu of up to 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, and you must show a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Vanuatu?
Begin by comparing plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully review the coverage and exclusions relevant to Vanuatu, such as medical evacuation and natural disaster coverage. Purchase your chosen plan online, and you will then receive your insurance certificate by email for your records.
What medical facilities are available in Vanuatu?
Medical services in Vanuatu are limited, especially outside of Port Vila and Luganville. Access to advanced care can be challenging, so emergency medical evacuation is often necessary in serious situations. Travel insurance with evacuation benefits is strongly recommended, as costs can easily exceed $30,000.
Are there risks associated with natural disasters in Vanuatu?
Yes, Vanuatu is prone to natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. Travelers should follow local news, be aware of potential evacuation orders, and ensure their travel insurance includes natural disaster coverage for interruptions and emergency departures.
Does travel insurance cover recreational activities in Vanuatu?
Many travel insurance policies provide coverage for common activities but may exclude certain adventure sports, such as scuba diving or volcano trekking. If you plan such activities, check that your policy covers them and any necessary equipment, as claims for injuries or cancellations may otherwise be denied.
