Find the Best Coverage for Your Thai Adventure
Thailand is a top destination for travelers, known for its beaches, temples, food, and rich culture. But to help ensure your trip goes smoothly, it’s a smart idea to buy travel insurance before you go.
Whether it’s a medical emergency, a flight delay, or lost luggage, having the right coverage offers peace of mind while you explore. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about travel insurance for Thailand, including whether it’s required, what coverage to look for, and how to choose the best plan for your trip.
Do I Need Travel Insurance for Thailand?
Travelers are not legally required to have travel insurance for Thailand, but it’s highly recommended. Medical expenses are the primary concern.
Although Thailand has a strong healthcare system, visitors must pay out of pocket for any medical treatment. While costs are generally lower than in many home countries, bills can still quickly add up.
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It’s important to consider what your coverage should include. Most policies cover medical expenses, stolen personal belongings, lost luggage, and flight delays.
However, your individual needs matter when choosing insurance. For example, consider whether you need coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, the length of your stay, and the activities you plan to do. Most basic policies won’t cover these, so choosing one tailored to your trip will give you greater peace of mind.
Travel Insurance for Common Risks in Thailand
While travel insurance typically covers common travel disruptions, it’s important to consider the specific risks you might face in Thailand, such as:
- Medical emergencies: Road accidents are common, especially in busy cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, and can result in costly medical treatment. Incidents like drink spiking also occur at parties and bars. Extensive medical coverage is essential to protect against high out-of-pocket expenses, which can range from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars.
- Adventure activities: Many travelers enjoy activities such as diving (e.g., Koh Tao), skydiving, white-water rafting, sailing, jet-skiing, off-roading, horse-riding, hang-gliding, and ziplining. These high-risk activities usually require an additional adventure sports rider, as basic policies often exclude them.
- Food and water safety: Traveler’s diarrhea affects many visitors due to contaminated food or water. While costs for treating mild cases may be low, severe cases requiring medical care can add up. Choosing reputable eateries and bottled water helps reduce risk, but insurance coverage for medical treatment remains important.
- Mosquito-borne illnesses: Diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, and malaria are present in Thailand, especially in rural and jungle areas during the rainy season (from May to October). Treatment can be expensive, so ensure your policy covers these illnesses.
- Natural disasters: Thailand experiences seasonal flooding, particularly during the monsoon season, and occasional earthquakes. Such events can disrupt travel plans and cause cancellations. Coverage for trip interruptions or cancellations can help recover prepaid, non-refundable expenses.
- Theft and scams: Petty theft and travel scams are common in tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. A policy that covers lost or stolen belongings is recommended to help replace valuables and documents quickly.
Medical costs in Thailand have increased rapidly since 2020 and are set to increase by another 15% in 2025. Because of this, many adventure-seeking visitors to the country have run up big medical bills, making insurance essential to offset these expenses.
Here are the approximate costs for some medical situations in Thailand:
- Diarrhea: $10-$160
- Dengue Fever: $705-$2,500
- Motorbike accident: $6,000-$60,000
- Medical evacuation: $8,000-$12,000
Read More: Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
What Does Thailand Travel Insurance Cover?
Travel insurance for Thailand typically offers a range of benefits designed to provide peace of mind by covering various medical situations, travel-related issues, and more.
Coverage varies by policy and protection level, but generally includes:
- Travel health insurance for illness, injuries, and emergencies
- Emergency medical evacuation to the nearest suitable facility in emergencies
- Reimbursement for non-refundable travel costs due to trip cancellation or delays
- Compensation for lost luggage and personal belongings
- Repatriation of remains in the event of death
Learn more about travel insurance benefits and how to choose the best plan for your needs in our article on Comprehensive Travel Insurance.
What’s Not Covered in Travel Insurance for Thailand?
Most travel insurance policies for Thailand exclude certain situations, so it’s important to read your policy’s fine print carefully.
Common exclusions in Thai travel plans include:
- Medical expenses related to pre-existing conditions
- Injuries from high-risk activities (which often require an additional adventure sports rider)
- Optional or elective medical treatments, such as cosmetic surgery
- Self-inflicted injuries
- Incidents involving alcohol or drugs
- Injuries or losses related to illegal activities
Know the laws in Thailand! Thailand has strict laws on alcohol and drug use. Possession or use of illegal drugs can lead to severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, or worse. Alcohol-related offenses can also land you in legal trouble. Travel insurance won’t cover injuries or legal costs arising from these incidents, so know the local laws and act responsibly during your trip.
How Much is Travel Insurance for Thailand?
Travel insurance for Thailand is generally affordable, but premiums can vary depending on several factors, including your age, health, trip duration, and the type of coverage you select.
For example, a 25-year-old traveling from the US to Thailand for ten days might pay between $7 and $30 for a travel medical plan, depending on the chosen maximum limit and deductible. However, a 55-year-old would typically pay around $25 to $80 for the same coverage and duration.
In general, the older you are, the more your plan will cost. Premiums may also be higher if you have a pre-existing health condition or if you add extra coverage for high-risk activities like adventure sports.
With a wide range of plans available, you should be able to find one that fits your budget and coverage needs, whether you’re visiting for a short holiday or a longer stay.
When comparing travel insurance plans for Thailand, it’s important to understand the components that influence the overall cost.
These factors can significantly impact both the price you pay and the level of protection you receive:
- Premiums: The amount you pay for the policy
- Deductibles: The amount you must pay out-of-pocket before coverage begins
- Co-Pays: Fixed charges for certain services, like doctor visits
- Covered Services: What the policy will pay for; this typically includes emergency medical care, medical evacuation, repatriation, lost luggage, and flight delays
- Add-Ons: Optional coverage you can add, such as adventure sports or cellphone protection
Want to keep insurance costs down? Consider choosing a plan with a higher deductible. Most insurers allow you to specify your preferred deductible amount when requesting quotes. Just make sure your policy still includes essential coverage such as emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation, repatriation, and trip cancellation, which is especially important for travel to Thailand.
Read More: Compare Travel Insurance Plans
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance for Thailand
Wondering, “What travel insurance do I need for Thailand?” With so many options available, choosing the right plan can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.
Here are the key factors to consider when selecting a policy:
- Assess Your Medical Needs: Do you have any pre-existing conditions that might require care during your trip? Make sure your policy covers both emergency and routine medical treatment, and check whether pre-existing conditions are included or require additional coverage.
- Consider Your Activities: Are you planning to ride a motorbike, go scuba diving, rock climb, or try other adventure sports? If so, look for a policy that includes adventure sports coverage or offers an optional rider for these higher-risk activities.
- Trip Duration: Longer trips carry more risk and may require more comprehensive coverage. Make sure your policy covers your entire stay in Thailand, from departure to return, and includes trip cancellation or interruption protection if needed.
- Be Aware of Thailand-Specific Risks: Thailand has unique risk factors such as dengue fever (a mosquito-borne illness), frequent motorbike accidents, and occasional natural disasters like floods. Check that your policy addresses these risks with appropriate medical and evacuation coverage.
- Understand Coverage Limits: Review the limits for key services such as emergency medical care, evacuation, repatriation, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Make sure the amounts are sufficient for the potential costs involved.
Don’t settle for the first quote you find! Carefully compare travel plans to find one that best fits your trip details and coverage needs. Coverage levels can vary widely for things like emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best if it leaves you underinsured—make sure the policy provides adequate protection for your trip.
The Best Travel Insurance for Thailand
Below are our top travel insurance recommendations for Thailand, each tailored to cover various needs – from medical emergencies to trip protection and more.
The Best Travel Health Insurance for Thailand
Atlas Travel Insurance is a great all-around option for travelers to Thailand. It offers a flexible and affordable plan with a wide range of benefits at a reasonable price. Applicants from all nationalities are eligible, except residents of Canada and Australia.
Atlas Travel Insurance
- Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
- Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
- Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
- 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance
The plan includes coverage for pre-existing conditions, ensuring you receive necessary medical care abroad. Atlas also offers optional adventure sports coverage for activities like ziplining, white-water rafting, and kiteboarding, including emergency evacuation if needed.
GeoBlue’s Voyager Travel Insurance plan is an excellent choice for U.S. citizens visiting Thailand. Affiliated with Blue Cross Blue Shield, it provides access to a premium network of doctors and hospitals worldwide.
GeoBlue Voyager Plan
- For U.S. citizens up to age 95
- Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
- 24/7/365 service and assistance
GeoBlue also offers 24/7 customer support, telemedicine, and prescription drug coverage. The plan is especially ideal for older U.S. citizens, as it provides the highest level of coverage for seniors traveling abroad.
The Best Trip Cancellation Insurance for Thailand
With Trawick Safe Travels AnyReason, U.S. citizens and residents can visit Thailand with flexibility and financial protection against unexpected changes to their trip plans.
Safe Travels AnyReason
- Available to US residents traveling within the United States and abroad
- 100% Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Coverage
- Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation
- 75% of Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) is included within 7 days of trip deposit
This plan offers one of the best Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) benefits at no extra cost. Trawick will reimburse up to 75% of prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses if you cancel for reasons beyond standard covered events.
World Nomads Travel Insurance is a top choice for non-U.S. citizens seeking trip cancellation coverage for travel to Thailand. Policyholders can recover non-refundable expenses like flights, accommodations, and prepaid activities.
World Nomads Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation
- Trip cancellation and interruption benefits included
- Emergency medical transport and repatriation
- Baggage and gear cover
- Optional Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage available for U.S. citizens/residents (Explorer and Epic Plans)
Beyond trip cancellation, World Nomads covers over 200 adventure activities common in Thailand, such as scuba diving, trekking, and Muay Thai boxing. It also covers emergency medical expenses, evacuation, repatriation, and protection against lost or stolen belongings.
Planning to Move to Thailand? International health insurance is a better option if you’re planning to stay in Thailand for a year or longer. These plans offer extensive benefits, including coverage for inpatient and outpatient medical care, wellness, dental, and vision services. Moreover, they provide coverage in Thailand and worldwide, including your home country, ensuring seamless healthcare protection wherever you go. Read more about health insurance for foreigners in Thailand.
Thailand Travel Tips
Thailand is generally safe to visit, but it’s important to stay vigilant and prioritize your health and safety while you’re there. The country’s tropical climate, vibrant cities, and diverse regions each present unique considerations for travelers.
By following the tips below, you’ll be well-prepared to handle common risks, understand local conditions, and ensure you have the right medical and insurance coverage for a safe and enjoyable trip to Thailand.
What Vaccinations Do I Need to Travel to Thailand?
Travelers don’t need to have specific vaccinations to enter Thailand. However, travelers should keep up to date on routine vaccinations. This includes the vaccines for polio, chickenpox, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis. Be sure to have your annual flu shot, too.
Since Thailand is a tropical region, vaccinations against some of the most common viral infections, including dengue, malaria, Zika, tuberculosis, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis, can also be helpful, especially if you plan to visit rural or forested areas. Anti-malarial medication may also be advised.
Before you travel, review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for Thailand travel information and consult with your doctor to see if there are additional vaccines that may be suitable. This is especially important if you plan to visit rural or forested areas. Anti-malarial medication may also be advised.
Read More: Vaccine Requirements for Traveling Abroad
How to Bring Medications to Thailand
You can generally bring personal medications into Thailand, but quantities should not exceed a 90-day supply. Make sure you have enough medication or medical equipment for your entire trip.
Many basic medications like aspirin are available over the counter in Thailand, but if you rely on prescription medicines or prefer specific brands, bring them with you. Keep prescription medicines in their original packaging and carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor’s note.
Be aware that medicines containing codeine require a special permit, so it’s best to avoid bringing these. Additionally, strict restrictions apply to prescription medications containing narcotics or psychotropic substances, so check regulations before you travel. You may be allowed to bring a personal supply if you meet specific criteria.
Read More: Traveling Internationally with Prescription Medication
How to Access Medical Care in Thailand
Medical treatment is widely available in major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Pattaya. While basic care is accessible in rural areas, English-speaking healthcare providers may be limited. Most travel insurance policies for Thailand cover medical expenses up to a certain amount.
If you need medication during your trip, bring enough to last your stay. Counterfeit medicines are common in Thailand, and some locally purchased drugs may be stronger or made differently than those in the U.S.
Thailand’s healthcare system is highly regarded and ranks sixth best globally. The country launched its universal coverage program in 2002, providing subsidized medical treatment to all citizens.
Private employees are typically covered by a social security system supported by payroll contributions. Foreigners and expatriates working in the private sector may also be eligible for this coverage.
Visitors and expatriates who don’t qualify for these programs should have private health insurance. Fortunately, many affordable plans are available, and private insurance is generally accepted at Thailand’s top private hospitals.
Read More: Health Insurance for Foreigners in Thailand
Travel Warnings and Alerts for Thailand
Many governments issue specific travel advisories for Thailand, offering important safety and travel advice to help visitors stay informed and protected.
Be sure to check these official sources for the most up-to-date information before and during your trip:
- US Department of State
- UK Foreign Travel Advice
- Australian Government Smartraveller
- Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Read More: A Guide to Travel Advisories, Warnings, and Alerts
Emergency Contact Information for Thailand
Emergency Assistance Numbers in Thailand
Unfortunately, emergencies can happen when traveling abroad. When they do, it is essential to know who to contact.
Keep the following emergency numbers handy, either saved on your phone or written on a piece of paper stored in a secure place.
- Police and General Emergency: 191
- Medical Emergency: 1669
- Fire: 199
- Tourist Police: 1155
All these numbers operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Embassy Phone Numbers in Thailand
In addition to local emergency services, it’s important to have the contact details of your country’s embassy or consulate while traveling. They can assist with lost passports, legal issues, or other emergencies abroad.
Here are some of the main embassy phone numbers in Thailand:
- US Embassy: +66 2 205 4000
- UK Embassy: +66 2 305 8333
- French Embassy: +66 2 657 6100
- Australian Embassy: +66 2 344 6300
- New Zealand Embassy: +66 2 254 2530
7 Safety Tips for Traveling in Thailand
So, is it safe to travel to Thailand? The short answer is yes. Thailand is generally safe to visit, but as with any country, it’s important to pay attention to what’s happening around you. A little extra vigilance will ensure you avoid the most common risks travelers encounter in the country.
1. Watch Your Belongings
Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are the most common crimes tourists face in Thailand, especially in crowded tourist spots, markets, and on public transport like buses and trains.
For example, popular areas in Bangkok, such as Khao San Road or Chatuchak Market, can get very busy, making it easier for thieves to strike.
Always keep your bag zipped and close to your body, preferably in front of you. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables, and consider using a money belt or hidden pouch.
2. Stay Vigilant When Going Out at Night
Thailand’s nightlife is vibrant, from rooftop bars in Bangkok to the famous Full Moon Parties on Koh Phangan. However, drink spiking has become increasingly concerning in bars, clubs, and large gatherings.
There have been reports of tourists waking up with little memory of the previous night or discovering their belongings missing after leaving drinks unattended.
To stay safe, never leave your drink unattended and avoid accepting drinks from strangers. Consider using drink test strips or drink covers if you’re at a busy venue. It’s also wise to travel with trusted friends and keep an eye on each other throughout the night.
3. Be Careful on the Roads
Thailand has one of the highest rates of road accidents in Southeast Asia. Busy cities like Bangkok and tourist hotspots such as Pattaya see many accidents involving motorcycles and cars.
When crossing streets, remember that traffic drives on the left, but chaotic traffic flow means you need to look both ways carefully.
If you rent or use motorcycle taxis, always wear a helmet and avoid riding at night or in bad weather. Pedestrians should use footbridges where available and avoid walking on busy roads.
4. Avoid Drinking Tap Water
While tap water in Thailand is treated and generally safe for brushing your teeth, it’s usually not recommended to drink directly from the tap. Many locals and travelers prefer bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach upsets or waterborne illnesses.
To stay safe, always use bottled or purified water for drinking, making ice, and preparing food or beverages. Bottled water is widely available and affordable throughout Thailand, from convenience stores to restaurants and street vendors.
When ordering drinks, be sure to check that ice is made from filtered water, especially if you’re in rural areas or smaller towns where water quality can vary. Carrying a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter is also a smart option.
Read More: Drinking Tap Water Abroad
5. Respect Local Culture
Thailand is a deeply respectful and traditional society, where customs and etiquette play an important role in daily life. The culture tends to be conservative, both in behavior and dress, so it’s important to be mindful of local norms during your visit.
For instance, dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites. You’ll often need to cover your shoulders and knees to show respect.
Avoid loud or aggressive behavior, and never touch someone’s head, as it is considered the most sacred part of the body. Also, be sure to stand quietly and respectfully during the national anthem, which is played twice daily in public places across the country.
These small acts of respect go a long way and help you avoid offending locals, making your trip more rewarding and enjoyable.
6. Protect Yourself from the Sun and Weather
Thailand’s tropical climate means it’s hot and sunny year-round, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C (86°F). Heat exhaustion is common, especially for those not used to the humidity.
To stay safe, make sure to apply sunscreen with a high SPF regularly, wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap, and drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
Be especially mindful during Thailand’s monsoon season, which runs roughly from May to October. During this period, sudden heavy rains can cause flash flooding and muddy roads, potentially disrupting travel plans or outdoor activities.
Coastal areas may also be at risk of cyclones or tsunamis, so always check local weather updates and follow advice from authorities or your accommodation.
7. Stay Informed About Political Situations
While most of Thailand is safe for tourists, some southern provinces, such as Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, and areas near the borders with Cambodia, Myanmar, and Malaysia have experienced political unrest and occasional violence.
It’s best to avoid traveling to these regions unless absolutely necessary. If you do plan to visit, be sure to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation and support in case of unrest or protests.
Before your trip, regularly check travel warnings and alerts from your government or trusted sources. Staying informed helps you make safer decisions and avoid risky situations. For instance, some travelers have been unexpectedly caught in protests or roadblocks that disrupt transportation and daily life.
Never face a crisis alone! Many insurance providers offer 24/7 support to assist with emergency evacuations, legal help, or trip cancellations if you find yourself in the middle of protests, natural disasters, or other unforeseen events. By staying updated on local conditions and securing the right coverage, you can travel with greater confidence, knowing you have support in case of emergencies.
Have the Time of Your Life in the Land of Smiles
Thailand is a wonderful destination, known for its friendly locals, breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Every year, millions of travelers visit the Land of Smiles and enjoy unforgettable experiences — and with just a bit of caution, you can too.
Whether you’re exploring the temples and street food of Bangkok, trekking through the mountains of Chiang Mai, or relaxing on the beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui, Thailand has something for every kind of traveler.
By staying alert, respecting local customs, and securing the right coverage, you can ensure that your journey is not only memorable but also safe and stress-free.
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- Get multiple quotes and coverage options
- Travel Medical, Trip Cancellation & more options available
- Find the best plan for your needs and budget
Get a free quote now and find the best coverage for your Thai adventure!