- The best international travel insurance plans
- What is international travel insurance?
- The price of international travel insurance
- What does international travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of international travel insurance
- Why take out international travel insurance?
- How to choose the right international travel insurance
- Does Your Current Insurance Cover international Travel?
- FAQ
international travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: International travel insurance covers overseas costs like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost personal belongings.
2. Price: For a one-week Europe trip, expect to pay between ₱2,000 and ₱5,000 for standard coverage.
3. Coverage: It covers medical care, repatriation, and cancellations but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: PhilHealth, HMOs, and bank cards offer very limited or no international medical or travel inconvenience coverage.
5. Tips: For Schengen visas, ensure your policy has at least €30,000 medical coverage from an accredited insurer.
6. Other useful info: Always carry printed and digital copies of your insurance certificate, as immigration may request it.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the Philippines, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best international travel insurance.
The best international travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best international travel insurance options for residents of the Philippines in 2025. These plans are among the best for their high medical limits, low deductibles and simplified requirements, providing strong protection for overseas journeys.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | ₱5.5M | ₱0 | • Covers pre-existing conditions. • 24/7 multilingual helpline. • Fast digital claims process. • Includes missed connection and activity sports. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | ₱5.5M | ₱0 | • Teleconsultation access. • Family and group discounts. • COVID-19 medical included. • Assistance application available. |
| Tourist Card | ₱2.8M | ₱1,700 | • Pregnancy coverage abroad. • Covers high-risk sports. • Telemedicine support. • Quick enrolment process. |
| World Travel | ₱3.9M (USA/Canada), ₱1.7M (others) | ₱2,800 per claim | • Includes quarantine hotel costs. • Passport and document loss support. • Political evacuation. • Online reimbursement tracking. |
| Globe Partner | ₱1.7M | ₱0 | • Suitable for students and businesses. • Easy online purchase. • Schengen compliant. • 24/7 worldwide emergency service. |
| Globe Traveller | ₱2.8M | ₱0 | • Trip durations up to 12 months. • Stable premium for 60+ travelers. • Multilingual client support. • Coverage for lost luggage included. |
• 24/7 multilingual helpline.
• Fast digital claims process.
• Includes missed connection and activity sports.
• Family and group discounts.
• COVID-19 medical included.
• Assistance application available.
• Covers high-risk sports.
• Telemedicine support.
• Quick enrolment process.
• Passport and document loss support.
• Political evacuation.
• Online reimbursement tracking.
• Easy online purchase.
• Schengen compliant.
• 24/7 worldwide emergency service.
• Stable premium for 60+ travelers.
• Multilingual client support.
• Coverage for lost luggage included.
The best international travel insurance varies depending on personal needs. Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find the plan that suits you and subscribe online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat is international travel insurance?
International travel insurance is a policy that protects Filipino travelers against unforeseen events and expenses while traveling outside the Philippines.
It typically covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability, and emergency evacuation during trips abroad.
This type of insurance is specific to journeys crossing national borders, with higher coverage limits due to the increased costs of healthcare and services internationally.
International travel insurance is sometimes called “overseas travel insurance,” and is different from domestic coverage, which only applies within the Philippines.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out international travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in the Philippines:
- when applying for a visa to countries in the Schengen Area.
- for travel to places with high medical costs like the USA.
- as PhilHealth offers very limited or no coverage outside the Philippines.
- if your trip has expensive, non-refundable bookings like flights or tours.
- when traveling with children or elderly family members who need protection.
- if you plan adventure activities like diving, skiing, or hiking.
- for protection of valuables like laptops, cameras, or important documents.
The price of international travel insurance
On average, international travel insurance costs between 3% and 6% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost (PHP) | Indicative price per person (PHP) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week in Thailand and Singapore | ₱35,000 | ₱1,000 to ₱2,000 |
| 2 weeks in Japan and South Korea | ₱90,000 | ₱2,700 to ₱5,400 |
| 3 weeks in France and Germany | ₱180,000 | ₱5,400 to ₱10,800 |
| 1 month in the United States | ₱300,000 | ₱9,000 to ₱18,000 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your international travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer your trip, the higher the insurance cost.
- destination: travel to countries with high medical costs, such as the United States or Japan, leads to higher premiums.
- traveler’s age: seniors usually pay more for coverage, especially with higher medical limits.
- level of coverage: comprehensive and premium plans with high limits or extra benefits result in higher prices.
- pre-existing medical conditions: coverage for chronic or known health issues increases the policy cost.
- covered activities: adventure sports, special equipment, or business travel options can also affect the premium.
What does international travel insurance cover?
International travel insurance is a contract that protects Filipino travelers against costly emergencies and disruptions abroad. It provides access to essential services and peace of mind during trips outside the Philippines.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🛑 Trip cancellation | Covers non-refundable expenses if you cancel before departure for covered reasons. | We recommend at least ₱75k per person, with no more than ₱2k deductible. Pre-existing conditions, visa refusal and cancellation for work are usually excluded. |
| 🕒 Missed departure | Pays for extra travel expenses if you miss your flight due to valid reasons. | Minimum ₱10k cover is suggested, with no deductible. Delays caused by neglect, unconfirmed disruptions and personal lateness are not covered. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Reimburses costs of lost, stolen or damaged luggage during your trip. | At least ₱75k insurance is advised and deductibles should not surpass ₱1k. Unattended bags, valuable electronics and normal wear are often excluded. |
| 🩺 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical treatment abroad if you get ill or injured. | Choose no less than ₱2M cover, and avoid deductibles above ₱5k. Chronic illness, routine care and treatments without receipts are generally excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Organizes and pays for medical transport back to the Philippines. | Minimum ₱1.5M cover, ideally unlimited, and expenses arranged by the insurer. Optional returns, refusal to repatriate or travel against advice are excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers sudden dental pain or accident requiring treatment abroad. | Aim for at least ₱30k and a deductible under ₱500. Scheduled treatments, prosthetics and cosmetic repairs are not covered. |
| 🧳 Baggage delay | Pays for essentials if your luggage is delayed for a certain period. | ₱5k after 24 hours is a good benchmark, generally with no deductible. Early or unproven claims, and delays under 12 hours are excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Pays legal fees or bail if you face legal issues outside the Philippines. | Opt for at least ₱150k for legal costs and ₱500k for bail. Intentional acts, intoxication and criminal activities are not covered. |
| 🧍♂️ Personal liability abroad | Pays for accidental damage or injury you cause to others during your trip. | At least ₱1M in liability cover, deductible under ₱5k. Damage to rented items, family members or through illegal acts are always excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refunds lost expenses if you must end your trip early for covered reasons. | Choose at least ₱75k coverage and a deductible below ₱2k. Voluntary and minor reasons, as well as business obligations, are not covered. |
Pre-existing conditions, visa refusal and cancellation for work are usually excluded.
Delays caused by neglect, unconfirmed disruptions and personal lateness are not covered.
Unattended bags, valuable electronics and normal wear are often excluded.
Chronic illness, routine care and treatments without receipts are generally excluded.
Optional returns, refusal to repatriate or travel against advice are excluded.
Scheduled treatments, prosthetics and cosmetic repairs are not covered.
Early or unproven claims, and delays under 12 hours are excluded.
Intentional acts, intoxication and criminal activities are not covered.
Damage to rented items, family members or through illegal acts are always excluded.
Voluntary and minor reasons, as well as business obligations, are not covered.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the international travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of international travel insurance
To benefit from your international travel insurance during your trip, several requirements must be met. Here are the main conditions for travelers from the Philippines:
- Timing of purchase: you must buy your international policy before leaving the Philippines and before any illness or loss occurs.
- Residency: you must be a resident of the Philippines at the time you apply for the international insurance.
- Trip duration limit: coverage is valid only for the dates and trip length specified in your contract, usually up to 180 days per trip.
- No ongoing travel: you must not already be abroad when purchasing the policy; it applies only to newly departing trips.
- Purpose of travel: the trip must be for tourism, business, or study, not for emigration or permanent relocation.
- Destination exclusions: countries under government travel advisories or sanctions may not be covered by your insurance.
- Incident reporting: you must notify your insurer as soon as possible after an accident, illness, or loss.
- Proof of claim: supporting documents, such as receipts, medical certificates, or police reports, are required for reimbursement.
Watch out!
Heads up, Kabayan! Relying solely on your credit card's free travel insurance is a common mistake. These policies often have very low medical limits and exclude crucial benefits like repatriation. Always buy a comprehensive plan to avoid huge unexpected expenses and ensure you're fully protected abroad.
Why take out international travel insurance?
Traveling internationally exposes you to a range of risks, and medical treatment or emergencies abroad can result in significant and sometimes unexpected expenses.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to ₱5,000,000 per trip or 100%, depending on plan limit |
| Medical repatriation |
| Up to 100% if medically necessary, subject to policy terms |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to ₱5,000,000 or 100%, subject to policy limit |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Up to 100%, subject to maximum and deductible |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Partial reimbursement, with sublimit or cap per policy |
- Europe: ₱15,000 to ₱20,000
- North America: ₱25,000 to ₱30,000
- Asia: ₱8,000 to ₱12,000
- Europe: ₱800,000 to ₱1,200,000
- North America: ₱1,000,000 to ₱2,000,000
- Asia: ₱400,000 to ₱600,000
- Europe: ₱500,000 to ₱1,000,000
- North America: ₱1,000,000 to ₱1,500,000
- Asia: ₱200,000 to ₱350,000
- Europe: ₱12,000 to ₱18,000
- North America: ₱18,000 to ₱25,000
- Asia: ₱6,000 to ₱10,000
- Europe: ₱20,000 to ₱30,000
- North America: ₱30,000 to ₱35,000
- Asia: ₱12,000 to ₱18,000
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
International travel insurance usually covers more than medical emergencies: trip cancellation or interruption, lost or delayed baggage, personal liability, repatriation, and emergency assistance services are often included, making it essential for all types of travelers.
Good to know
Don't let a medical emergency ruin your trip and finances. An accident abroad can cost millions of pesos, far beyond what PhilHealth or credit cards cover. Secure comprehensive protection for peace of mind. A plan from Chapka can offer direct billing so you're not out-of-pocket.
How to choose the right international travel insurance
Coverage details in international travel insurance can differ by plan and insurer: reimbursement ceilings, claim limits, and covered risks may vary greatly. This makes comparing key criteria essential for Filipino travelers who want protection tailored to their trip and destination.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Low limits might not be enough for medical costs abroad or in expensive countries. | Choose at least ₱2,000,000 to ₱5,000,000 medical cover for international trips, especially to USA or Europe. |
| 📉 Deductible | This is your out-of-pocket payment before reimbursement begins. | Favor policies with low or zero medical deductible, especially for emergencies and hospitalizations. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Some benefits have eligibility restrictions or must be purchased before a deadline. | Buy your insurance immediately after booking to access cancellation and full travel interruption coverage. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Premiums and exclusions apply for seniors, and age limits affect medical coverage. | Older travelers should request no age limit policies or specialty cover for pre-existing conditions. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Standard coverage is limited to a maximum trip length per plan. | Ensure your entire journey, stopovers, and side trips are covered for the full period stated on your itinerary. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Coverage scope depends on your chosen regions or countries. | Confirm that every destination, including transits and layovers, are clearly covered by your plan’s terms. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Credit cards or HMO plans might duplicate some travel protection elements. | Check what is already covered by your bank card, then look for a plan that fills the actual gaps in protection. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Certain adventure sports and hazardous activities are often excluded. | Declare all high-risk activities like diving, trekking, or skiing to obtain the proper endorsements or riders. |
| 👩💻 Online subscription | Quick online purchase and instant documentation saves time, especially for urgent trips. | Opt for plans with digital application, e-certificates, and mobile app support for global access and claims management. |
Does Your Current Insurance Cover international Travel?
It is natural to wonder if your existing insurance like credit card protection or public health schemes can be used as international travel insurance, but unfortunately they are often not sufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | International travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (PhilHealth) | Almost Never | Emergency treatment in a few countries only, up to ₱100,000. No repatriation, no lost luggage, no trip cancellation, no personal liability are covered, and most destinations are excluded. | Travel insurance reimburses up to ₱5,000,000 for medical and covers repatriation, baggage loss, cancellation, and liability worldwide. |
| Private health insurance (Maxicare, Medicard) | Almost Never | Some overseas emergency care in network hospitals, usually max ₱200,000–₱500,000. Not valid for trip cancellation, baggage loss, evacuation, or accident coverage except in rare cases. | Travel insurance pays up to ₱5,000,000 for medical and adds worldwide evacuation, cancellation, loss of belongings, and more protections. |
| Classic credit card (BPI Blue, Metrobank Classic) | Never | Rarely covers medical, if so maximum ₱100,000. No repatriation, medical evacuation, baggage loss, trip delay, or liability. Coverage not valid abroad in almost every case. | Travel insurance covers up to ₱5,000,000 with repatriation, trip coverage, liability, loss or stolen luggage, not covered by classic cards. |
| Premium credit card (BPI Amore Platinum, BDO Elite Mastercard) | Limited coverage | Some medical up to ₱300,000–₱500,000, accidental death, baggage cover up to ₱25,000. No high medical coverage, no extensive trip cancellation, no broad worldwide support, or 24/7 assistance hotline. | Travel insurance can reimburse up to ₱5,000,000 medical, add trip cancellation, worldwide medical evacuation, and comprehensive travel support. |
No repatriation, no lost luggage, no trip cancellation, no personal liability are covered, and most destinations are excluded.
Not valid for trip cancellation, baggage loss, evacuation, or accident coverage except in rare cases.
No repatriation, medical evacuation, baggage loss, trip delay, or liability. Coverage not valid abroad in almost every case.
No high medical coverage, no extensive trip cancellation, no broad worldwide support, or 24/7 assistance hotline.
Expert advice
Your bank card or local health insurance might not cover trip interruptions, like a relative's illness. Always read the fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is international travel insurance mandatory?
International travel insurance is mandatory for entry into some countries, such as Schengen states in Europe and certain Middle Eastern destinations, as part of their visa requirements. For most trips, it is not compulsory, but it is strongly recommended for all Filipino travelers. Even a minor medical incident abroad, like a hospital visit in Japan or the USA, can cost tens of thousands of pesos without insurance.
When is it recommended to purchase international travel insurance?
The best time to purchase international travel insurance is before making any non-refundable payments for your trip, such as flights or hotel bookings. Buying early ensures you have cancellation coverage for unexpected events and that medical, baggage, and emergency benefits are in place from the start of your journey. Early purchase also limits the risk of overlooked pre-existing conditions.
How do I purchase international travel insurance?
Begin by comparing available policies using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform for the Philippines. Review all guarantees and exclusions specific to international travel to ensure you get the right protection. Purchase your chosen plan securely online. You will then receive your certificate by email, which you may need to present at immigration or for visa applications.
Can I purchase international travel insurance after booking my flights and hotels?
Yes, you can usually buy international travel insurance after booking your travel arrangements. However, coverage for pre-trip cancellations and certain benefits may only apply if you purchase the policy within a specific period after booking. For full coverage, purchasing insurance as soon as your travel plans are confirmed is best.
How do I make a claim on my international travel insurance?
To file a claim, contact your insurer as soon as the incident occurs using their international emergency hotline or online portal. Provide all necessary documents such as receipts, medical reports, and a copy of your policy. The insurer will guide you through the process and process reimbursement based on the policy terms.
Does international travel insurance cover COVID-19 related expenses?
Most international travel insurance plans now include coverage for COVID-19, including medical treatment, quarantine costs, and sometimes trip cancellation due to COVID-related events. It is important to check the policy wording for any pandemic-related exclusions or limits, especially if traveling to countries with strict health protocols.
Are adventure sports and activities covered by international travel insurance?
Coverage for adventure sports such as skiing, scuba diving, or trekking varies by insurer and policy. Some plans cover these activities as standard, while others require the purchase of an added rider or do not cover them at all. Always check if your planned activities are included to avoid surprises during a claim.
Is international travel insurance mandatory?
International travel insurance is mandatory for entry into some countries, such as Schengen states in Europe and certain Middle Eastern destinations, as part of their visa requirements. For most trips, it is not compulsory, but it is strongly recommended for all Filipino travelers. Even a minor medical incident abroad, like a hospital visit in Japan or the USA, can cost tens of thousands of pesos without insurance.
When is it recommended to purchase international travel insurance?
The best time to purchase international travel insurance is before making any non-refundable payments for your trip, such as flights or hotel bookings. Buying early ensures you have cancellation coverage for unexpected events and that medical, baggage, and emergency benefits are in place from the start of your journey. Early purchase also limits the risk of overlooked pre-existing conditions.
How do I purchase international travel insurance?
Begin by comparing available policies using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform for the Philippines. Review all guarantees and exclusions specific to international travel to ensure you get the right protection. Purchase your chosen plan securely online. You will then receive your certificate by email, which you may need to present at immigration or for visa applications.
Can I purchase international travel insurance after booking my flights and hotels?
Yes, you can usually buy international travel insurance after booking your travel arrangements. However, coverage for pre-trip cancellations and certain benefits may only apply if you purchase the policy within a specific period after booking. For full coverage, purchasing insurance as soon as your travel plans are confirmed is best.
How do I make a claim on my international travel insurance?
To file a claim, contact your insurer as soon as the incident occurs using their international emergency hotline or online portal. Provide all necessary documents such as receipts, medical reports, and a copy of your policy. The insurer will guide you through the process and process reimbursement based on the policy terms.
Does international travel insurance cover COVID-19 related expenses?
Most international travel insurance plans now include coverage for COVID-19, including medical treatment, quarantine costs, and sometimes trip cancellation due to COVID-related events. It is important to check the policy wording for any pandemic-related exclusions or limits, especially if traveling to countries with strict health protocols.
Are adventure sports and activities covered by international travel insurance?
Coverage for adventure sports such as skiing, scuba diving, or trekking varies by insurer and policy. Some plans cover these activities as standard, while others require the purchase of an added rider or do not cover them at all. Always check if your planned activities are included to avoid surprises during a claim.
