- The Best Travel Insurance for Vietnam
- Is it currently safe to travel to Vietnam?
- Is travel insurance required for a Vietnam visa?
- Why take out travel insurance for Vietnam?
- Travel insurance coverage in Vietnam
- The cost of travel insurance for Vietnam
- How to Pay Less for Travel Insurance to Vietnam
- Will my current insurance policy provide coverage in Vietnam?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Vietnam: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Vietnam protects against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and unexpected incidents abroad.
2. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens visiting Vietnam, but it is highly recommended for safety.
3. Price: A typical one-week travel insurance policy for Vietnam costs about $25 to $55 per traveler.
4. Healthcare cost: Private hospital care in Vietnam can cost foreign visitors $80 to $200 per night or more.
5. Good to know: Many Vietnamese hospitals require proof of insurance or payment before admitting foreign patients for treatment.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international expert in travel insurance comparison, advising more than one million travelers each month. After reviewing 42 travel insurance policies available in the United States, our specialists are here to share everything you need to know to select the best travel insurance for Vietnam.
The Best Travel Insurance for Vietnam
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M USD | Strong overall protection for Vietnam. - highest medical limit - repatriation included - cover for evacuation |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M USD | Trusted for consistent support in Vietnam. - 24/7 medical helpline - cancellation available - straightforward terms |
| Tourist Card | $0.55M USD | Effective medical cover for short stays. - solid emergency limits - accessible worldwide assistance - cost-effective |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.77M USD | Good solution for longer trips to Vietnam. - hospital care covered - broad area of validity - repatriation included |
| Globe Partner | $0.33M USD | Basic cover suitable for simple trips. - essential medical protection - personal liability included - simple claims |
| Globe Traveller | $0.55M USD | Adequate choice for brief, budget-focused visits. - basic medical coverage - fast reimbursement - limited medical ceiling |
- highest medical limit
- repatriation included
- cover for evacuation
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation available
- straightforward terms
- solid emergency limits
- accessible worldwide assistance
- cost-effective
- hospital care covered
- broad area of validity
- repatriation included
- essential medical protection
- personal liability included
- simple claims
- basic medical coverage
- fast reimbursement
- limited medical ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Vietnam?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State rates Vietnam at Level 1: exercise normal precautions, meaning the country is considered generally safe for travel, with routine vigilance advised.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching is common in busy areas like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Traffic conditions are particularly hazardous, and road accidents involving motorcycles often result in serious injury.
- Health risks: the quality of medical care rarely meets US standards, especially outside major cities. Risks include dengue, tuberculosis, and exposure to air pollution, with medical evacuation in severe cases often necessary.
- Legal constraints: US citizens can face significant delays if arrested, and Vietnamese authorities are not required to notify the US Embassy promptly. Rules about medication import and dual nationality may also restrict travelers.
- Cultural and environmental factors: persistent air pollution in cities like Hanoi can aggravate respiratory issues. Be aware of heavy rainfall and possible flooding during the monsoon season, particularly from June to November.
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 Vietnam.
Is travel insurance required for a Vietnam visa?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens applying for a visa to visit Vietnam.
It is still strongly recommended to take out comprehensive travel insurance. The US Department of State advises this due to the limited quality of medical care, the costs of emergency evacuation, and exposure to risks such as road accidents or mosquito-borne diseases.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Vietnam. This high figure is explained by the potential high cost of health care and the need for medical evacuation coverage in case of severe illness or accident.
Why take out travel insurance for Vietnam?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Vietnam.
In Vietnam, public hospitals rarely meet international standards, especially outside major cities. Foreigners are often referred to private facilities like the French Hospital of Hanoi or FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, where treatments can be costly.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the United States in case of serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Vietnam.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at French Hospital of Hanoi | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 20,000,000 VND (about $790 USD) | up to $1,000,000 USD |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 12,000,000 VND (about $475 USD) | up to $1,000,000 USD |
| I need to be repatriated | 500,000,000 VND (about $19,750 USD) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 70,000,000 VND (about $2,750 USD) | up to $1,000,000 USD |
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 in Vietnam
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospitalization, consultations, and drugs. Essential for unexpected illness or injury. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000 USD. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Pays for transport to a higher-standard hospital or repatriation to the US if care is unavailable locally. Minimum recommended cover: $100,000 USD. |
| 🧳 Luggage cover | Protects against theft, loss, or damage of baggage during your trip. Opt for at least $1,000 USD reimbursement limit. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Reimburses pre-paid expenses if you have to cancel for a covered reason, such as medical issue. We suggest cover of at least $3,000 USD. |
| ⚖️ Personal liability | Covers costs if you cause unintentional injury or property damage to others. Ideally, choose coverage of at least $50,000 USD. |
| 💊 Emergency dental | Pays for urgent dental treatment due to accident or infection. Recommended minimum: $500 USD. |
| 📞 Travel assistance | 24/7 support for emergencies, including interpretation and legal aid. Look for plans with unlimited assistance services. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000 USD.
Minimum recommended cover: $100,000 USD.
Opt for at least $1,000 USD reimbursement limit.
We suggest cover of at least $3,000 USD.
Ideally, choose coverage of at least $50,000 USD.
Recommended minimum: $500 USD.
Look for plans with unlimited assistance services.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often comes with low limits, exclusions, or service gaps. It is safer to select a recognized insurer offering comprehensive coverage. Compare trusted options on HelloSafe and sign up online for instant proof.
The cost of travel insurance for Vietnam
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $30 USD |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $55 USD |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $90 USD |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $180 USD |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
Good to know
The price of travel insurance depends on several factors: the age of the traveler, duration of the stay, destination, type of coverage, and whether cancellation is included. Premiums may increase for older travelers or longer trips. It’s important to consider these factors to get adequate coverage at a fair price for your U.S. travel plans.
How to Pay Less for Travel Insurance to Vietnam
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Vietnam while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 📅 Travel duration | Prices increase for longer trips. Choose accurate dates, as unused days add unnecessary cost. | Buy coverage only for your actual stay, and compare annual plans if you travel often. |
| 👤 Traveler’s age | Older travelers, especially over 65, usually pay more for insurance in Vietnam. | Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62, so compare their rates first. |
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Higher medical limits and low deductibles increase price but are needed in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. | Avoid unnecessary extras, but keep medical and evacuation cover at least $100,000 USD. |
| ⛑️ Activities covered | Adventure or scooter use increases risk and cost. Choose a plan fit for your actual activities. | Exclude risky sports if you don’t participate to lower your premium. |
| 👫 Number of travelers | Family and group plans may lower per-person cost for Vietnam. | Insure all travelers in one policy if possible for additional savings. |
| 🛫 Cancellation reasons | Protection against lost costs, but it may not be needed for budget trips or flexible plans. | Opt out of cancellation coverage if your tickets or accommodation are refundable. |
| 💳 Payment method | Some US credit cards offer included travel insurance, but coverage is often limited in Vietnam. | Check your card’s limits, but don’t rely on it for full protection. |
Will my current insurance policy provide coverage in Vietnam?
It is completely legitimate to wonder if your current coverage, like credit card insurance or a public health plan, will cover you during a trip to Vietnam. Unfortunately, the protection offered by these options is usually limited or insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Vietnam? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage abroad, including no medical, hospital, or evacuation | Travel insurance can cover over $100,000 USD medical and evacuation costs |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Aetna) | Yes, partly | Emergency out-of-network care, but may be capped at $5,000 USD, repatriation rarely included | Travel insurance reimburses up to $1,000,000 USD and offers 24/7 support |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Yes, partly | Limited emergency medical, often under $10,000 USD; no lost luggage or trip delay | Travel insurance covers $100,000 USD+ with full baggage and trip protection |
| Premium credit card (Visa Signature, Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold) | Yes, partly | Medical under $100,000 USD, some trip delay and baggage loss coverage | Travel insurance adds higher limits and includes trip cancellation and evacuation |
Example
While traveling in Hanoi, Mark suffered acute appendicitis and needed emergency surgery. The hospital bill totaled $9,500. His Chase Sapphire Preferred card offered only $500 in medical coverage, and his domestic U.S. health insurance didn’t apply abroad. Mark had to pay the remaining $9,000 out of pocket, causing severe financial strain.
Expert advice
Always review the terms, exclusions, and limits of your insurance. Critical situations—like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death—are sometimes excluded. Read conditions closely to avoid surprises when abroad. Ultimately, purchasing a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored for your trip is the safest and most reassuring choice.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Vietnam. You can apply for an e-visa online, at the nearest Vietnamese consulate, or through an authorized agency. Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining, and entry rules may differ for land, sea, or air arrivals.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Vietnam?
Start by comparing different plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the specific coverages and exclusions, paying attention to health care limitations and evacuation needs in Vietnam. Buy your preferred policy online and you will receive your proof of insurance certificate by email instantly.
What does travel insurance typically cover in Vietnam?
Most travel insurance plans cover emergency medical costs, hospital stays, medical evacuation, trip interruptions, luggage loss, and personal liability. Given Vietnam’s limited international-standard medical facilities, it’s important to make sure your plan covers at least $100,000 USD in medical expenses and includes evacuation to your home country if necessary.
Can I buy travel insurance for Vietnam if I am already abroad?
Some insurers allow you to purchase coverage even after you have left the United States, but options may be narrower and may have waiting periods before coverage starts. It’s always best to purchase your policy before departure to ensure no gaps in protection.
Are adventure sports like motorbiking or scuba diving covered by travel insurance?
Standard policies do not always include risky activities such as motorbiking or scuba diving. If you plan to participate in these sports, choose a policy that specifically includes them or add a relevant extension. Review policy wording carefully, as restrictions and extra costs may apply.
How quickly can I get proof of insurance for my Vietnam trip?
Once you complete your online purchase, your insurance certificate is sent by email within minutes. Most insurers provide digital proof, which you can print or show on your phone if required by airlines or authorities in Vietnam.
Do I need a visa to travel to Vietnam?
Yes, U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Vietnam. You can apply for an e-visa online, at the nearest Vietnamese consulate, or through an authorized agency. Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining, and entry rules may differ for land, sea, or air arrivals.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Vietnam?
Start by comparing different plans using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Check the specific coverages and exclusions, paying attention to health care limitations and evacuation needs in Vietnam. Buy your preferred policy online and you will receive your proof of insurance certificate by email instantly.
What does travel insurance typically cover in Vietnam?
Most travel insurance plans cover emergency medical costs, hospital stays, medical evacuation, trip interruptions, luggage loss, and personal liability. Given Vietnam’s limited international-standard medical facilities, it’s important to make sure your plan covers at least $100,000 USD in medical expenses and includes evacuation to your home country if necessary.
Can I buy travel insurance for Vietnam if I am already abroad?
Some insurers allow you to purchase coverage even after you have left the United States, but options may be narrower and may have waiting periods before coverage starts. It’s always best to purchase your policy before departure to ensure no gaps in protection.
Are adventure sports like motorbiking or scuba diving covered by travel insurance?
Standard policies do not always include risky activities such as motorbiking or scuba diving. If you plan to participate in these sports, choose a policy that specifically includes them or add a relevant extension. Review policy wording carefully, as restrictions and extra costs may apply.
How quickly can I get proof of insurance for my Vietnam trip?
Once you complete your online purchase, your insurance certificate is sent by email within minutes. Most insurers provide digital proof, which you can print or show on your phone if required by airlines or authorities in Vietnam.
On the same topic
