Philippines: what are the best travel insurance options in 2025?
- Assistance guarantee - medical repatriation
- Direct cover for hospitalisations longer than 24 hours
- Liability insurance private life
- Individual accident insurance
- Assistance guarantee - medical repatriation
- Direct cover for hospitalisations longer than 24 hours
- Liability insurance private life
- Individual accident insurance
The ACS Globe Partner Travel Insurance policy provides a comprehensive set of benefits designed to ensure security and financial coverage for travelers. A significant feature of this insurance is the excess, which is set at $100 per claim and per file across various benefits, including legal liability, medical expenses, and luggage claims. This ensures that policyholders bear a minimal out-of-pocket cost before the insurance coverage takes effect. The presence of a fixed excess amount simplifies the claims process, allowing travelers to anticipate their potential costs in case of an incident.
The maximum amount for essential medical costs covered under this policy is $300,000 per person per year, which includes expenses related to hospitalization, surgery, consultations, pharmacy needs, and paramedical care. The insurance covers 100% of actual costs for hospitalization and surgery, ensuring that policyholders do not have to worry about medical expenses exceeding their coverage limit. Additionally, emergency dental treatment is covered up to $300, while dental treatment following an accident extends up to $600, providing a sufficient level of protection for dental emergencies. Notably, students benefit from extended emergency medical coverage of up to $15,000 in their country of residence during school holidays, making this an attractive option for young travelers studying abroad.
The maximum trip duration for this insurance is structured in a way that allows flexibility for travelers. The policy can be subscribed to for a fixed term of up to 12 months and can be renewed twice, allowing for extended coverage up to a total of three years. However, renewal is contingent on maintaining continuous coverage without interruption. The insurance is specifically designed for travelers under the age of 40, which means it is particularly suitable for students, young professionals, and long-term travelers who require consistent coverage during their stays abroad.
The flight delay and cancellation compensation ensures travelers are not left out of pocket due to unforeseen travel disruptions. The insurance provides early return benefits if a policyholder must return home due to the death of an immediate family member, covering actual transport costs. In the event of hospitalization exceeding seven days, a relative or friend can be flown in, with expenses for transportation and accommodation covered up to $80 per night for a maximum of 8 nights. If travelers need to extend their stay due to medical reasons, the policy covers additional accommodation costs of $80 per night for up to 15 nights, ensuring financial security during unexpected health-related disruptions. Furthermore, medical repatriation and transport costs are fully covered, guaranteeing policyholders access to appropriate medical facilities when necessary.
The luggage cover provides compensation for personal belongings lost, stolen, or damaged during transit, with a maximum benefit of $1,150 per claim. This coverage applies specifically to luggage during the outward and return journey and includes reimbursement for theft, total or partial destruction, or loss during transport by a carrier. However, specific exclusions apply, including jewelry, electronic devices, professional equipment, musical instruments, food, and high-value items. The claim process requires supporting documents such as a police report, transport company loss statement, and purchase receipts. Compensation is calculated based on the replacement value with depreciation applied, ensuring a fair valuation for lost or damaged items.
Beyond these primary features, the policy offers several additional benefits that enhance its attractiveness. Legal liability coverage is provided, with $4.5 million for personal injury claims and $450,000 for property damage, ensuring strong protection against third-party claims during the trip. Coverage extends to objects entrusted to the policyholder during a traineeship or internship, with a compensation limit of $11,500, making this an appealing option for young professionals or students engaged in work placements abroad. Search and rescue costs are covered up to $3,000, providing security for those engaging in outdoor or adventure activities.
The policy includes legal assistance up to $3,000, and bail bond advances up to $7,000, offering financial support in case of legal troubles while traveling. Additionally, an advance of funds up to $700 is available in the event of theft or loss of payment methods, ensuring policyholders have access to emergency cash when needed. Funeral costs in the event of death are covered up to $1,500, while full repatriation of the body is covered at actual costs, providing peace of mind for loved ones.
In summary, the ACS Globe Partner Travel Insurance offers a well-balanced and comprehensive coverage plan tailored for young travelers, students, and professionals abroad. With reasonable excess fees, strong medical expense limits, generous trip duration allowances, extensive repatriation and assistance benefits, and reliable luggage protection, it provides solid protection in various travel scenarios. The addition of legal liability coverage, emergency fund advances, and search and rescue costs further enhances its appeal, making it a strong contender for travelers seeking dependable and extensive travel insurance coverage.
- Intuitive Heymondo app
- Registration in English
- Guaranteed refund
- Up to 49 years
- Intuitive Heymondo app
- Registration in English
- Guaranteed refund
Heymondo’s International Travel Insurance offers travelers a comprehensive and customizable coverage plan, ensuring peace of mind during both international and domestic journeys. One of the standout features of this policy is the absence of any deductible or excess, meaning that policyholders are not required to pay any out-of-pocket expenses before the insurance coverage takes effect. This feature simplifies the claims process and provides immediate financial relief in case of unforeseen events.
The policy provides substantial coverage for essential medical costs, with limits reaching up to $10,000,000 USD. This extensive coverage encompasses medical expenses incurred abroad due to sudden illness or accidental injury, including hospitalization, prescription medications, and inpatient physical therapy. Emergency dental treatments aimed at alleviating acute and sudden pain are also covered. Additionally, the insurance includes medical transportation and repatriation services, ensuring that policyholders can be safely returned to their home country if necessary. In cases where hospitalization extends beyond seven days, the policy covers travel and lodging expenses for a family member to accompany the insured, providing emotional support during challenging times.
Regarding trip duration, Heymondo’s policy is designed to accommodate various travel plans. For frequent travelers, the Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance covers all trips taken within a year, provided each trip does not exceed 60 days. This flexibility is ideal for individuals embarking on multiple journeys throughout the year, whether for leisure or business purposes. For those planning extended stays, the Long Stay Travel Insurance offers coverage for trips longer than 90 days, catering to long-term travelers, digital nomads, and individuals on assignments abroad.
In the event of travel disruptions, the policy offers compensation for flight delays and cancellations. If a trip is canceled due to covered reasons, such as a positive COVID-19 test or the serious illness or death of a close relative, the policy reimburses up to $7,000 USD for pre-paid, non-refundable expenses. This coverage must be purchased within seven days of the initial trip booking to be valid. For delays caused by public transport issues, the policy reimburses accommodation, meals, and refreshments, ensuring travelers are not left out-of-pocket due to unforeseen delays. Additionally, if a missed connection occurs due to the late arrival of an incoming flight, the insurance covers essential expenses, including the purchase of an alternative flight ticket if necessary.
The luggage coverage under this policy is designed to protect personal belongings against theft, loss, or damage. Policyholders are entitled to compensation of up to $2,500 USD in such events. In cases where checked baggage is delayed or misdirected by the carrier, the policy reimburses the purchase of necessary personal effects, ensuring travelers have access to essential items while awaiting their luggage. Furthermore, if official documents such as passports or visas are lost or stolen, the insurance covers the administrative expenses incurred for their replacement, alleviating the stress associated with such incidents.
Beyond these core features, Heymondo’s International Travel Insurance includes several additional coverages that enhance its appeal. Personal liability coverage of up to $2,000,000 USD protects against claims for bodily injury or property damage to third parties, including legal costs and expenses. The policy also offers compensation of up to $60,000 USD for accidental death or permanent disability resulting from incidents during the trip. For those planning to engage in adventure sports, an optional add-on extends coverage to activities such as white-water rafting, diving up to 20 meters, and bungee jumping, ensuring thrill-seekers are adequately protected. Additionally, coverage for electronic equipment is available, safeguarding valuable items like laptops, tablets, and cameras against theft or damage. The policy also addresses unforeseen events such as natural disasters, covering additional accommodation and transportation costs incurred during the trip due to events like floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes. For travelers renting vehicles, the insurance provides coverage for rental car excess up to $500 USD, offering financial protection against potential damages or theft of the rented vehicle.
To further enhance user experience, Heymondo offers a Travel Assistance App, providing 24/7 medical chat support, free online assistance calls, and efficient claims management, all accessible from the convenience of a mobile device. This app ensures that help is readily available, streamlining the process of seeking assistance and managing claims.
In summary, Heymondo’s International Travel Insurance stands out for its comprehensive coverage, absence of deductibles, and flexibility in accommodating various travel durations. The inclusion of extensive medical coverage, robust trip interruption benefits, generous luggage protection, and a suite of additional coverages makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking reliable and extensive insurance protection. The user-friendly Travel Assistance App further enhances the policy’s attractiveness, ensuring that support is always within reach, no matter where the journey leads.
- Renewal possible
- Cover for sports included
- Covid guarantee
- 24/7 assistance
- Cancellation insurance optional
- Renewal possible
- Cover for sports included
- Covid guarantee
- 24/7 assistance
- Cancellation insurance optional
The Chapka Cap Assistance 24/24 Travel Insurance offers a well-rounded and extensive package designed to provide financial security for travelers in various situations. A fundamental aspect of this insurance is the excess, which applies to specific claims, ensuring that policyholders share a portion of the costs before receiving compensation. Although the exact amount of the excess is not explicitly detailed in every section, the policy states that for medical expenses abroad, the insured must first use any available national healthcare coverage before additional expenses are reimbursed. This ensures that policyholders maximize existing benefits before claiming through the travel insurance, making it a practical option for those who already have partial coverage. In the event of a claim, prior authorization from the assistance center is required, which helps manage costs and streamline the reimbursement process.
A key feature of this policy is the coverage for essential medical costs, which varies depending on the geographical region. In Zone 1 (Europe, Israel, Morocco, Tunisia), coverage extends up to $100,000 per insured person. In Zone 2 (Worldwide excluding specific high-risk countries), the limit increases significantly to $500,000 per insured person, while for Zone 3 (including high-cost countries like the USA, Canada, Thailand, Mexico, India, and Indonesia), the maximum coverage reaches $1,000,000 per insured person. This coverage includes hospitalization, surgery, paramedical care, consultations, and emergency prescriptions, ensuring that travelers have financial security in case of unexpected medical events. Additional benefits include emergency dental care up to $300 per person, along with search and rescue costs up to $10,000 per person and $30,000 per event, which can be particularly useful for travelers engaging in adventure or outdoor activities.
Regarding maximum trip duration, this insurance policy covers trips lasting up to 90 consecutive days. This limitation ensures that the policy is best suited for short- to medium-term travelers rather than those planning long-term stays abroad. Any trip exceeding 90 days is not covered, meaning policyholders looking for extended coverage beyond this period would need to explore alternative long-term insurance options. This makes the policy ideal for frequent travelers, digital nomads on short-term stays, and students or professionals on temporary assignments abroad.
The flight delay and cancellation compensation provided under this policy is structured to offer financial relief in cases of significant travel disruptions. For flight delays, compensation of up to $250 per insured person is available if a scheduled flight is delayed by more than four hours (for standard flights) or six hours (for charter flights). In the case of a missed flight, policyholders are reimbursed 80% of the total cost of the original ticket, up to a maximum of $8,000 per person. Additionally, for a missed connection due to a delay of more than six hours, the insurance covers accommodation, meals, and transfer costs up to $100 per insured person, ensuring that travelers are not left stranded due to circumstances beyond their control.
The luggage cover ensures protection against theft, total or partial destruction, or loss during transport by an airline or transport company, with compensation reaching a maximum of $3,000 per insured person. This is particularly valuable for those carrying expensive items, as it provides significant reimbursement in case of loss or damage. Precious objects, including electronics and jewelry, are covered up to 50% of the total luggage cover, meaning a maximum of $1,500 per insured person. In addition, compensation for delayed baggage is available, offering up to $300 per insured person for essential purchases in the event of a delay. Further financial protection is offered through the reimbursement of travel document restoration costs, up to $150 per insured person, providing peace of mind in the event of passport or ID loss.
Beyond these core features, the policy includes a range of additional benefits that further enhance its value. Personal liability insurance abroad is covered up to $4.5 million per event for bodily injury and $300,000 per event for property damage, ensuring strong protection against third-party claims. Legal expenses abroad are covered up to $20,000 per litigation case, offering travelers financial support in legal disputes that may arise during their trip. Trip interruption coverage provides reimbursement of unused ground services, up to $7,500 per person and $35,000 per event, ensuring that unforeseen situations requiring an early return do not result in substantial financial losses.
For those traveling with pets, the policy offers return ticket reimbursement of up to $250 per event, covering expenses related to bringing pets home in case of repatriation. Additionally, sports equipment protection ensures reimbursement of up to $300 per event for stolen or damaged equipment, making it a suitable option for travelers engaged in sports activities. Home assistance coverage is also available in case of incidents at home while traveling, including emergency accommodation costs up to $80 per night for up to five nights.
In conclusion, the Chapka Cap Assistance 24/24 Travel Insurance offers well-balanced and extensive coverage for short- to medium-term travelers, providing strong medical expense benefits, flexible trip duration options, robust travel disruption compensation, and generous luggage protection. The inclusion of high personal liability coverage, legal assistance, trip interruption compensation, and additional covers for pets and sports equipment further strengthens its appeal. While the 90-day trip duration limit may not be ideal for long-term travelers, this policy remains an excellent choice for holidaymakers, business travelers, students, and digital nomads looking for extensive and reliable insurance coverage during their trips.
- Access to Telemedicine (online doctor)
- Coverage for quarantine of $1,000
- 24/7 assistance
- COVID-19 cover
- Access to Telemedicine (online doctor)
- Coverage for quarantine of $1,000
- 24/7 assistance
- COVID-19 cover
The MondialCare World Travel Insurance policy provides a broad and well-structured range of benefits for travelers, ensuring financial security across multiple aspects of their journey. A key component of this policy is the excess, which is applied to medical reimbursements and other claims. For medical expenses incurred abroad, a $50 deductible is applied per claim, ensuring that travelers contribute a manageable amount before the insurer covers the remaining eligible expenses. This excess remains relatively low compared to many other travel insurance policies, making it accessible while maintaining substantial protection.
The maximum amount of essential medical costs covered varies depending on the circumstances and the traveler’s location. The policy offers comprehensive medical and hospitalization coverage, ensuring that necessary treatment, hospitalization, and specialist care are provided without undue financial burden. Medical repatriation costs are fully covered, allowing insured individuals to be transported to an appropriate medical facility if required. Additionally, emergency dental care is covered up to $250, ensuring financial relief for unexpected dental issues during travel. Another standout feature is the advance payment for hospital expenses, which allows for direct payment to healthcare facilities instead of requiring policyholders to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement. This is particularly beneficial for those traveling to destinations with high medical costs.
The maximum trip duration under this policy is set at 90 days per trip, making it suitable for short- to medium-term travelers, including tourists, business travelers, and expatriates on temporary assignments. Coverage applies worldwide, with the policy catering to individuals traveling for leisure, work, or study. However, it does not automatically renew, requiring policyholders to extend coverage manually if they plan to travel beyond the initial insured period. The 90-day limit ensures that coverage remains adaptable to most travel needs while maintaining strong protection for extended stays abroad.
The flight delay and cancellation compensation under this policy provides essential financial support in cases of travel disruptions. Compensation of up to $250 per insured person is granted for flight delays exceeding four hours for scheduled flights and six hours for charter flights. If a traveler experiences a missed connection due to a delay exceeding six hours, the insurance covers additional accommodation, meals, and transfer costs up to $100 per insured person. Additionally, if the insured is denied boarding due to overbooking or temperature-based health screenings, a fixed compensation of $50 is provided. In the case of trip cancellation, the policy covers 100% of ticket costs due to medical emergencies, visa rejections, serious damage to the insured’s home, or the death of a close family member, ensuring financial protection against unforeseen events. However, cancellations due to strikes or carrier-related issues are excluded, limiting its applicability in certain situations.
The luggage cover provides extensive protection for travelers’ personal belongings, offering compensation of up to $3,000 per insured person in case of theft, loss, or damage. Valuables, including electronics, jewelry, and watches, are covered up to 30% of the total luggage allowance, ensuring that travelers carrying high-value items receive adequate compensation. Additionally, baggage delays exceeding 24 hours qualify for reimbursement of up to $250 to cover essential replacement items such as clothing and toiletries. Loss of travel documents, including passports and visas, is covered up to $150, facilitating swift replacement in the event of theft or misplacement.
Beyond these fundamental features, the policy includes several additional benefits that further enhance its attractiveness. Personal liability coverage is extensive, with a limit of $4.5 million per event for bodily injury claims and $300,000 for property damage, ensuring strong protection against third-party claims. Legal assistance of up to $20,000 is available to support insured individuals in legal disputes while abroad. Search and rescue operations are covered up to $5,000, providing essential financial aid for travelers engaging in adventure activities or remote-area travel.
Further benefits include trip interruption coverage, which reimburses up to $7,500 per insured person and $35,000 per event for unused travel expenses due to emergencies requiring an early return. Psychological assistance is also provided in the event of severe trauma or injury, covering consultation costs with a licensed psychologist. Additionally, evacuation due to political unrest or natural disasters is covered, ensuring travelers can return home safely in case of unexpected events in their destination country.
Overall, the MondialCare World Travel Insurance policy offers a well-balanced and extensive coverage plan, making it an excellent choice for short- to medium-term travelers looking for strong medical coverage, comprehensive trip protection, and generous baggage compensation. The inclusion of high personal liability limits, legal assistance, search and rescue benefits, and trip interruption compensation enhances its value, ensuring that policyholders have access to one of the most adaptable and reliable travel insurance options available. The combination of moderate excess, strong medical benefits, flexible trip duration, and broad additional protections ensures that travelers can embark on their journeys with confidence, knowing they have robust and comprehensive travel insurance coverage.
- Assist America global emergency services included
- Limited coverage for hand-carried baggage losses
- Excludes epidemics/pandemics like COVID-19 post-trip
- Assist America global emergency services included
Although the travel insurance from Malayan Insurance Company includes Assist America services that provide worldwide emergency assistance, this product has many weaknesses. First, the coverage for medical expenses has strict limitations: for example, room and board is limited to PHP 15,000 per day, and many conditions such as mental health issues, pre-existing conditions, and dengue are not covered. Second, the trip cancellation benefit has a high deductible (PHP 500) and only covers very limited situations, such as the death of a relative or a court subpoena. Third, the protection for personal belongings is very restrictive — hand-carried baggage is not included, and many common items such as laptops, gadgets, and jewelry are also excluded. Additionally, some services considered “essentials,” such as coverage for sporting activities, have limited benefits and come with their own deductibles. The only positive aspect of this insurance is the broad access to emergency services through Assist America. And for all these reasons, this is why we do not recommend the travel insurance from Malayan Insurance Company.
- Covers COVID-19 emergency treatment and evacuation
- Excludes COVID-related cancellations at boarding or fear of travel
- Limited payout for baggage, especially valuable items
- Covers COVID-19 emergency treatment and evacuation
Pioneer’s “SafeTrip with COVID-19” travel insurance offers decent medical coverage—up to PHP 2.5 million—and a clear focus on pandemic-related needs, including hospitalization and repatriation. However, there are several significant drawbacks. First, trip cancellation coverage excludes situations related to COVID-19 fear or denied boarding, which are common travel realities today. Second, the policy’s baggage protection is restrictive, with a PHP 5,000 cap per item and total limits that fall short for travelers carrying electronics or high-value goods. Additionally, the policy does not clearly specify the deductible/excess amounts, which reduces transparency for consumers. While the COVID-19 medical coverage is a strong point, the exclusions and low limits on other benefits make this plan less competitive in the international travel insurance market. And for all these reasons, this is why we do not recommend the travel insurance from Pioneer Insurance & Surety Corporation.
- Includes 24/7 worldwide emergency assistance services.
- Limited coverage for high-value items in baggage loss.
- Trip cancellation only covers specific unforeseen events.
- Includes 24/7 worldwide emergency assistance services.
Pacific Cross Insurance’s Worldwide Elite Including Schengen plan offers comprehensive medical coverage up to PHP 2,500,000 and provides 24/7 worldwide emergency assistance, ensuring travelers have support during medical emergencies. However, the policy has notable limitations. The trip cancellation benefit is restrictive, covering only specific unforeseen events, which may not encompass all reasons a traveler might need to cancel their trip. Additionally, the baggage loss coverage is limited to PHP 10,000 per item, which may be insufficient for travelers carrying high-value items such as electronics or jewelry. Furthermore, the excess of PHP 500 per claim can accumulate, leading to out-of-pocket expenses for multiple claims. While the medical coverage is robust, these limitations in other areas may not provide the comprehensive protection that discerning travelers seek. And for all these reasons, this is why we do not recommend the travel insurance from Pacific Cross Insurance.
- Provides coverage for adventure sports activities.
- Limited coverage for high-value items in baggage loss.
- Trip cancellation coverage excludes pre-existing conditions.
- Provides coverage for adventure sports activities.
FPG Insurance Co., Inc.’s TravelCare International plan offers comprehensive medical coverage up to PHP 2,500,000 and includes provisions for adventure sports activities, catering to travelers seeking active experiences. However, the policy has notable limitations. The trip cancellation benefit does not cover cancellations due to pre-existing conditions, which may be a concern for travelers with ongoing health issues. Additionally, the baggage loss coverage is limited to PHP 5,000 per item, which may be insufficient for travelers carrying high-value items such as electronics or jewelry. Furthermore, the excess of PHP 500 per claim can accumulate, leading to out-of-pocket expenses for multiple claims. While the inclusion of adventure sports coverage is a positive aspect, these limitations in other areas may not provide the comprehensive protection that discerning travelers seek. And for all these reasons, this is why we do not recommend the travel insurance from FPG Insurance Co., Inc.
- COVID-19 coverage and repatriation benefit included
- Strict cancellation terms, 3-day purchase rule
- Limited baggage cover per item
- COVID-19 coverage and repatriation benefit included
The travel insurance from PGA Sompo provides adequate coverage for key benefits such as medical expenses and repatriation, and it even includes coverage for COVID-19 — an aspect that is especially useful for travelers nowadays. However, the overall plan has several serious shortcomings. First, while the coverage for medical expenses is generally sufficient, it has limitations for certain types of care that are not clearly explained in the documentation. Second, the rules for trip cancellation are overly strict: the insurance must be purchased at least three days before departure, and many common reasons for cancellation are not covered. Third, the baggage protection is limited to PHP 20,000 per item, which is insufficient for valuable items like laptops or cameras. Another issue is the lack of a clear statement regarding the deductible, which could lead to confusion for those filing claims. While the inclusion of COVID-19 benefits is commendable, it does not make up for the overall deficiencies of this product. And for all these reasons, this is why we do not recommend the travel insurance from PGA Sompo Insurance Corporation.
- What are the essential benefits in travel insurance?
- How can I reduce the cost of my travel insurance?
- How to find the best travel insurance for me?
- How am I currently covered (credit card, private health insurance, public healthcare)?
- Our guides
Did you know that the cost of hospitalization in the United States can reach $10,000 per day? A medical emergency, lost luggage, or a cancelled flight can quickly turn your dream trip into a nightmare. Getting travel insurance means peace of mind when the unexpected happens.
Whether you’re going on vacation, studying abroad, travelling around the world, or moving overseas, it’s essential to choose a policy that fits your needs. But how does travel insurance work? What does it cover? How do you find the right price—and the right coverage?
At HelloSafe, we help over a million travellers every month compare travel insurance. Our experts have reviewed dozens of travel insurance plans available in the Philippines to provide you with a detailed comparison and tailored advice.
Travel insurance: key facts to remember
- Mandatory? Travel insurance is not mandatory in the Philippines, but it may be required for visa applications to certain countries like the Schengen states, China, or the USA. Even when not compulsory, it is highly recommended to protect yourself from unexpected travel issues.
- Why buy it? Travel insurance covers emergencies while travelling, such as medical expenses, emergency repatriation, trip cancellations, lost luggage, or personal liability abroad.
- Price: The cost of travel insurance depends on your destination, trip duration, and coverage level. Expect to pay ₱600 to ₱3,000 for a one-week trip and up to ₱25,000 for an annual policy.
- Credit cards: Some premium credit cards (e.g. BDO Gold, Metrobank World Mastercard) offer built-in travel insurance, but usually with lower limits and strict conditions, and without full medical or baggage coverage.
- COVID-19 coverage: Many travel insurance providers in the Philippines now include COVID-19 protection as standard, covering medical expenses, quarantine, and cancellations.
What are the essential benefits in travel insurance?
Here is a list of the main benefits included in travel insurance policies. We have categorized them as essential, important, or optional. We also indicate their impact on the overall cost of insurance, so you can better understand which coverages are most likely to increase your premium.
1. Medical expenses and hospitalisation abroad – 🛑 Essential
- Description: covers unexpected medical costs abroad, including doctor visits, hospitalisation, prescribed medicines, and emergency treatment.
- Deductible: from ₱0 to ₱3,000, depending on the insurer and plan
- Reimbursement limit: from ₱1,000,000 to ₱5,000,000, varying by destination and plan level
- Common exclusions: undeclared pre-existing conditions, non-urgent care, and high-risk activities without coverage extension
- Impact on price: 🔺 High – this is the most expensive benefit in a travel policy. A higher coverage limit means a higher premium.
- ⚠️ Actor to avoid: Etiqa Travel Insurance – low medical cap on basic plans (₱750,000), excludes outpatient treatment and sets restrictive sub-limits per illness.
2. Repatriation assistance – 🟠 Important
- Description: covers coordination and cost of returning to the Philippines in case of serious illness, accident, or death while abroad.
- Deductible: generally none
- Reimbursement limit: often covered at actual costs, as expenses vary greatly by country and medical condition
- Common exclusions: non-medical repatriation, incidents involving drugs/alcohol, repatriation without prior insurer approval
- Impact on price: 🔻 Low – although crucial, this benefit is usually bundled and has limited effect on total premium
- ⚠️ Actor to avoid: Malayan Travel Master – repatriation only covered under limited scenarios and requires prior medical evacuation approval, which may delay urgent cases.
3. Personal liability abroad – 🟠 Important
- Description: covers accidental bodily injury or property damage caused to third parties during your trip.
- Deductible: varies, typically from ₱10,000 to ₱20,000
- Reimbursement limit: from ₱2,000,000 to ₱10,000,000, depending on the insurer and policy
- Common exclusions: intentional damage, use of motor vehicles, risky sports without coverage, harm to family or personal belongings
- Impact on price: 🔻 Low – this benefit is low-cost and doesn't significantly affect the total premium
- 💡 Expert tip: for travel to high-compensation countries (like the USA), choose a policy with at least ₱5,000,000 in liability coverage.
4. Trip cancellation insurance – 🟡 Optional
- Description: reimburses non-refundable travel costs if your trip is cancelled for valid reasons (illness, death in the family, unexpected work obligations, etc.). Usually offered as an add-on.
- Deductible: around 10% of the total cancellation cost
- Reimbursement limit: from ₱100,000 to ₱500,000 per person, depending on the plan
- Common exclusions: cancellations due to personal choice, undeclared pre-existing conditions, expired visa/passport, non-extreme weather
- Impact on price: 🔺 Moderate to high – the cost rises significantly for expensive trips (around 3–5% of trip value)
- ⚠️ Actor to avoid: Chubb Travel Insurance – cancellation benefit only applies to a narrow set of medical emergencies, and excludes flight rescheduling or weather-related disruptions.
5. Travel delay – 🟡 Optional
- Description: reimburses meals, hotel stays, or other necessary expenses if your flight or transport is delayed for more than a set number of hours (typically 4 to 6 hours).
- Deductible: usually none
- Reimbursement limit: from ₱5,000 to ₱25,000, often released in tiers depending on hours delayed
- Common exclusions: delays announced more than 24 hours in advance, strikes or disruptions known before booking
- Impact on price: 🔻 Low to moderate – this benefit is affordable and has limited effect on total cost
- ⚠️ Actor to avoid: BDO Insure – only covers flight delays of at least 12 hours, with a low cap of ₱5,000, and excludes delays due to airline scheduling issues.
6. Loss, theft or damage to baggage – 🟡 Optional
- Description: compensates you if your personal belongings are lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip.
- Deductible: between ₱3,000 and ₱9,000
- Reimbursement limit: from ₱50,000 to ₱200,000, often with caps on high-value items like electronics
- Common exclusions: unattended valuables, delayed damage reports, and thefts without signs of forced entry
- Impact on price: 🔻 Low to moderate – remains affordable unless you add high-value item protection
- ⚠️ Actor to avoid: Oona Travel Insurance – valuables only covered if worn or locked in a hotel safe, excluding most thefts from rooms or transit bags.
7. Legal assistance abroad – 🟡 Optional
- Description: covers lawyer fees and/or bail advances if you're involved in a legal dispute while travelling abroad.
- Deductible: varies depending on the insurer and the nature of the claim
- Reimbursement limit: from ₱175,000 to ₱900,000, depending on the provider and plan type
- Common exclusions: cases related to illegal or fraudulent acts, serious criminal charges, or unpaid fines and penalties
- Impact on price: 🔻 Very low – this benefit is low-cost and usually included with minimal price impact
- ⚠️ Actor to avoid: Alliedbankers PAL Travel Insurance – provides only basic legal assistance, no bail advance, and limits support to traffic-related cases only, excluding broader legal needs.
8. Extreme sports and high-risk activities – 🟡 Optional
- Description: coverage for accidents or injuries related to the practice of high-risk sports (off-piste skiing, scuba diving, paragliding, mountaineering…), which are often excluded from standard insurance policies.
- Deductible: same as for medical and hospitalisation cover (₱0 to ₱3,000)
- Reimbursement limit: same as medical coverage, i.e. from ₱1,000,000 to ₱5,000,000
- Common exclusions: if not added as an option, most risky or competitive sports are excluded by default
- Impact on price: 🔺 High – as it is usually not included by default, adding this option significantly raises the premium
- ⚠️ Actor to avoid: AXA Philippines (Smart Traveller) – most high-risk sports (including diving and skiing) are excluded entirely, even as an add-on in basic and classic plans.
Good to know
In a travel insurance policy, insurance covers financial risks (like reimbursement for medical expenses, cancellations, or lost baggage), while assistance handles the coordination and upfront payment for emergency services (such as repatriation or hospital admission). Insurance reimburses you, assistance acts immediately.
How can I reduce the cost of my travel insurance?
Travel insurance can be a significant expense, especially for Filipino travellers heading to countries with high medical costs. Fortunately, there are several smart ways to lower your premium without compromising on essential protection. Here are some effective strategies to help reduce your travel insurance costs while staying properly covered.
1. Compare plans to find the best value for money
Not all insurers offer the same price for similar coverage. Using a travel insurance comparison tool helps you quickly identify the most competitive offers based on your destination and trip duration.
2. Adjust your coverage to match your real needs
Don’t pay for overly comprehensive coverage if your trip doesn’t require it. Here are some ways to tailor your policy and save money:
Optimisation tips | Explanation |
---|---|
Choose appropriate medical coverage | If you're travelling to countries with affordable healthcare (e.g. Thailand or Vietnam), lower coverage may be sufficient. |
Skip cancellation cover if your ticket is flexible | If your airline allows free changes, cancellation insurance may not be necessary. |
Opt for a higher deductible | Accepting a higher out-of-pocket cost (e.g. ₱3,000+) will reduce your premium. |
Check your credit card travel benefits | Premium cards like BDO Gold or Metrobank Travel Platinum may already include basic travel coverage. |
Insure only the necessary duration | Avoid annual policies if you travel only occasionally—a one-time plan is more budget-friendly. |
3. Take advantage of promotions and group discounts
Some insurers offer discounts for:
✅ Families or groups travelling together.
✅ Early bookings (buying your insurance well before departure).
✅ Long-term policies (if you travel multiple times a year, an annual plan may be more cost-effective).
Also, don’t forget to use the promo code HelloTravel to get discounts on all travel insurance plans listed on our comparison tool.
4. Avoid unnecessary add-ons
Some insurance providers automatically include expensive options (like extreme sports, valuables cover, or premium assistance) that you may not need. Read the policy carefully and request to remove any extras that don’t apply to your trip.
By following these tips, you can reduce your travel insurance cost by 30% to 50% while still staying well protected.
How to find the best travel insurance for me?
Depending on your profile and travel plans, you won’t need the same travel insurance. Here are a few expert tips to help you choose the right coverage.
Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
---|---|---|
Age | Insurers often apply age-based pricing or restrictions. | Check the covered age range (typically 0–65). If you’re over 65, choose a senior plan or one that allows coverage with an age-based premium. |
Health status / history | Pre-existing or chronic conditions are commonly excluded. | Look for policies with pre-existing condition cover (e.g. offered by Etiqa or Chubb), or ask for a specific rider. Check for medical declarations. |
Trip duration | Duration impacts both eligibility and limits. | If travelling more than 90 days, choose long-stay or expat-type coverage. For short trips, a basic plan is often enough. |
Destination(s) | Healthcare costs vary greatly worldwide (very high in the USA, Canada, Japan). | Make sure your policy offers at least ₱2.5 million medical coverage abroad. Avoid policies with vague geographic exclusions. |
Planned activities | Risky or adventure sports are often excluded by default. | If scuba diving, surfing, or mountain hiking is planned, choose a policy with a sports or adventure activities add-on. |
Season of travel | Climate events (typhoons, monsoons) increase risks of cancellation or injury. | Travelling during storm season? Choose a policy that includes weather-related trip interruptions or cancellations. |
Baggage value | Most plans cap baggage cover (e.g. ₱50,000 to ₱100,000). | If carrying valuables (camera, laptop), get a policy that allows a higher item limit or optional valuable item coverage. |
Cancellation or interruption | Unexpected events can lead to major financial losses. | If your trip is uncertain, opt for "cancel for any reason" or at least coverage for illness, visa refusal, strikes, or family emergency. |
Visa or entry requirements | Some destinations (like Schengen countries) require minimum medical coverage. | Confirm your policy meets visa conditions (e.g. ₱2.5 million coverage, COVID clause). Credit card insurance is often not accepted for this. |
Type of trip | Travel purpose affects both benefits and limitations. | Choose a plan that matches your profile: tourist, student, business, Schengen. For business, check for professional equipment protection. |
How am I currently covered (credit card, private health insurance, public healthcare)?
When travelling abroad, it's essential to understand what is already covered by your credit card insurance, private health plan, or public healthcare system in the Philippines. This helps you avoid duplicate coverage or, conversely, identify gaps that should be filled with a dedicated travel insurance policy.
In the Philippines, PhilHealth is the main public health insurance provider. However, PhilHealth only covers medical expenses within the country and offers no benefits for treatments abroad. Some Filipinos also hold private HMO plans or corporate health coverage, but these usually have territorial limitations and do not include emergency repatriation or travel-specific incidents.
Here’s a practical guide to help you evaluate your existing coverage—and determine whether additional travel insurance is necessary.
1. PhilHealth: no coverage abroad
👉 What you should know :
- PhilHealth is the national health insurance program in the Philippines, but it only covers treatments within the country.
- It does not cover any medical expenses incurred abroad, including hospitalisation, doctor visits, or emergency care during international travel.
- Repatriation costs, medical evacuations, and travel-related incidents are never included under PhilHealth coverage.
📌 Expert tips :
- If you're planning to travel abroad—especially to countries with expensive healthcare like the United States, Canada, or Japan—make sure to purchase a dedicated travel insurance policy.
- Don't rely on PhilHealth for overseas protection. It offers no financial support outside the Philippines, even in emergencies.
2. Private health insurance (HMO): often incomplete for international travel
👉 What you should know :
- Many Filipinos are covered by private Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) such as Maxicare, Intellicare, or Medicard. While these offer good benefits within the Philippines, they typically do not cover medical expenses abroad.
- Some plans may offer international emergency coverage, but usually with strict conditions, low limits, and limited duration.
- HMOs do not cover non-medical travel risks such as trip cancellation, lost baggage, repatriation, or personal liability.
📌 Expert tips :
- Always check your HMO policy and request a written certificate confirming any overseas coverage before travelling.
- For trips over a month or to destinations with high medical costs, it's best to take a comprehensive travel insurance policy rather than relying solely on your HMO.
3. Credit card: useful but limited protection
👉 What you should know :
Premium credit cards issued by Philippine banks—such as BDO Gold Mastercard, BPI Signature Visa, or Metrobank World Mastercard—often include basic travel insurance, but with strict conditions:
- Coverage applies only if the trip is paid using the same card.
- The coverage duration is usually limited to 90 days.
- Reimbursement limits are generally too low for destinations with expensive healthcare, like the United States.
A few examples:
- BDO Gold Mastercard: includes limited accident and flight delay coverage, but no medical expense cover.
- BPI Signature Visa: includes emergency medical benefits up to ₱500,000, which is low, and pre-existing conditions are always excluded.
- Metrobank World Mastercard: offers travel inconvenience benefits, but lacks comprehensive hospitalisation coverage.
📌 Expert tips :
- Always check the reimbursement limits of your credit card’s insurance—they’re often too low for international medical emergencies.
- If you're travelling for more than 90 days, the card coverage ends—you'll need dedicated travel insurance.
- Standard cards (like Visa Classic or Mastercard Regular) typically offer no travel coverage at all, so you should purchase a standalone policy.
Our guides
- HelloSafe Enters the Travel Insurance Market in the Philippines
- Philippines: what are the best travel cancellation insurance policies in 2025?
- Philippines: what are the best Schengen visa insurances in 2025?