Travel Insurance for Thailand
Travel Insurance for Thailand
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Do you need Travel Insurance for Thailand?
If you have an Australian passport, you can visit Thailand as a tourist for up to 30 days visa-free. While Travel Insurance is not a requirement for visiting Thailand, it can be useful in case of any mishaps or medical emergencies.
As of May 2024, the Australian Government recommends all travellers to Thailand exercise a high degree of caution due to safety and security risks. Road accidents, extreme weather events, scams, fraud and crime in general can affect tourists in Thailand and lead to unexpected expenses.
Of course, visiting any destination also comes with risks you might not encounter at home. Travellers can encounter additional costs due to lost luggage, delays or flight cancellations. In these situations, Travel Insurance can provide compensation and peace of mind.
‘My wife and I went to Ko Samui for our one-year wedding anniversary and unfortunately on the first day I contracted an eye infection which required hospitalisation for three nights. Thankfully, we had travel insurance for treatment at a new hospital. Fast forward a few days, with my eye on the mend, I still had about a week to enjoy all this wonderful destination had to offer.’
Anthony D’Abaco
Head of Customer Activation at iSelect
Which popular activities in Thailand can be covered?
Thailand has something for all kinds of travellers: white sand and turquoise waters for beach bums, fascinating art and history for culture buffs, vibrant cities with the nightlife to match, and let’s not forget the incredible food. Here’s our list of some popular tourist activities and the potential risks you should be aware of.

- Moped and motorcycle riding: Riding a moped or a motorcycle is a popular way to get around Thailand due to its hectic traffic, but road accidents are a significant cause of injury for visitors. Before you leave Australia, check with your insurer to make sure you’re covered. Some policies won’t provide cover if you aren’t licensed to ride a motorcycle back home. Just like at home, you and any passengers should always wear a helmet.
- Jet ski riding: As with motorcycles, some insurance policies won’t provide cover if you aren’t licensed to ride a jet ski in Australia. Make sure to check the operator’s insurance policy and take photographs of the jet ski, including underneath, to record its condition before riding. Never provide your passport as a deposit or guarantee.
- Full Moon parties: Attending full moon parties in Thailand is a rite of passage for many travellers. If you’re planning to join in the celebrations, be sensible about your partying choices, especially when it comes to alcohol and drugs. Your Travel Insurance will not be able to help if you end up in trouble with the law or you’re under the influence at the time of an incident.
- Animal sanctuaries: Thailand has animal sanctuaries that allow you to get up close with impressive animals like elephants, tigers and more. We suggest taking the time to find an ethically run business, and always following instructions on how to engage safely with the animals.
- Water sports: Snorkelling and scuba diving are fantastic in many areas of Thailand, but safety standards may not always be as rigorous as in Australia. Check that your insurance policy covers these activities, and always use available safety equipment such as life jackets.
- Martial arts: If you’re a martial arts enthusiast and plan to train in Thailand, for example by taking a kickboxing class, make sure your policy will cover this activity as a specific inclusion.
What are some potential dangers to look out for in Thailand?
As discussed above, the Australian government has designated Thailand as a Level 2 country overall and lists several reasons for travellers to exercise caution.
Additionally, tourists are advised to take care in areas that border Myanmar and Cambodia and to reconsider their need to travel to the southern provinces that border Malaysia due to low-level conflict in these areas.
Insect-borne diseases including malaria, Zika virus, dengue, chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis and filariasis are present in parts of Thailand, as is rabies. It is important to take precautions and avoid contact with insects and animals while travelling.
What’s covered under Travel Insurance in Thailand?
While we all hope we won’t need it, Travel Insurance can save you thousands of dollars in the unlikely event you get sick or injured in Thailand. Most Travel Insurance policies will cover medical emergencies, unanticipated delays and cancellations, and your personal possessions.
Almost all Travel Insurance policies provide unlimited cover for overseas emergency medical assistance and overseas medical hospital assistance. Many also cover overseas emergency dental expenses, but usually have a fairly low limit. Luggage and personal effects cover is usually either included or offered as an additional option, while some insurers provide cancellation fees and lost deposits cover.
What can Travel Insurance cover in Thailand? | What won’t Travel Insurance cover in Thailand? |
Medical problems: There are both public and private hospitals in Thailand with a range of facilities. However, medical services can be limited outside major cities and in serious cases medical evacuation may be required. The cost of care at private hospitals can be very expensive, with proof of insurance or guarantee of payment often required before admission. | Travel to southern provinces: Thailand overall is listed as a Level 2 country by Smartraveller, but Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat provinces are considered Level 3 areas due to the risk of low-level insurgent activity. Level 3 means travellers should reconsider their need to travel. You should check with your insurer before travelling to any Level 3 areas, as they may be automatically excluded from coverage. |
Cancellation fees and lost deposits: Thailand has tsunamis, floods, earthquakes and volcanoes – all of which can force the disruption or cancellation of your travel plans. If you have to make last-minute changes because of factors out of your control, your Travel Insurance may be able to help. | Risky behaviour: If you’re riding a moped without an Australian licence or helmet and get injured, it’s unlikely you’ll be covered – if you get hurt, you’re liable. Alcohol-related injuries and incidents also generally aren’t covered by Travel Insurance. |
Luggage and possessions: Theft occurs in Thailand and tourists can be a target. Your travel insurance may cover these losses, as well as the loss of cash and travel documents, depending on your level of cover. | Theft and petty crime: Monitor your possessions carefully while in Thailand, because many policies won’t pay if you leave your goods unattended and they’re stolen. You must report thefts or losses to the police and your insurer within 24 hours. |
Personal liability: If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation where you have injured someone or damaged property in Thailand, a policy that includes personal liability insurance could give you a greater degree of security. | High-risk activities: Scuba diving, rafting, elephant treks and climbing may not be covered by all travel insurers. If you know you’re planning an adventure-filled holiday, double check the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before getting on the plane. |
How much does Travel Insurance cost for Thailand?
Basic Travel Insurance for a week in Thailand starts from around $45 and ranges up to $100. Medical-only cover is available for $35, while adding personal liability insurance or rental vehicle insurance excess cover will increase the cost. More expensive insurance will generally include a higher amount of coverage of delays, cancellation and lost luggage, too.
Your premiums will also go up as you age or if you have any pre-existing medical conditions. Travel Insurance excess usually comes in between $150 and $250, but you can often reduce it at an extra cost.
Where can I find and compare Travel Insurance?
Travel Insurance can provide peace of mind during your Thailand holiday. From lost luggage to medical bills, you could be protected from unexpected costs and hassles. Compare Travel Insurance quotes online today.