Travelling abroad is one of life’s great joys. Experiencing new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes can be truly unforgettable. But before you jet off, travel insurance is one essential item you should never overlook.
While it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance for any international adventure, certain countries make it necessary. Whether due to high healthcare costs, elevated crime risks, or a mandatory requirement, having the right policy can make all the difference.
This guide explores why travel insurance is crucial, highlights specific countries where it’s a must-have, and explains what to consider when choosing the right policy.
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Why Travel Insurance Matters
Travel insurance acts as a safety net, covering unexpected situations like medical emergencies, lost luggage, or trip cancellations. While some travellers might see it as an optional expense, the reality is that it can save you thousands in unexpected costs and alleviate stress when things don’t go as planned.
Beyond just financial protection, travel insurance provides peace of mind. Knowing that you have support in case of emergencies means you can fully enjoy your journey without worrying about unforeseen mishaps. Many policies also offer 24/7 assistance, helping travellers navigate challenges like missed flights, legal trouble, or emergency evacuations.
For travellers with pre-existing medical conditions, having appropriate travel insurance is even more essential. Travelling with peace of mind is invaluable, and a tailored travel insurance policy can provide the reassurance needed to fully enjoy your trip.
However, in certain destinations, having comprehensive travel insurance goes beyond peace of mind—it’s an essential requirement.
READ MORE: Travel Insurance Policy Types and Benefits
Countries with Expensive Healthcare
Some countries have exceptionally high healthcare costs, meaning even a minor injury or illness could lead to financial strain. Adequate travel insurance ensures that you receive the care you need without worrying about exorbitant medical bills.
READ MORE: Destinations with Leading Healthcare
United States
The U.S. is known for world-class medical facilities but also some of the highest healthcare costs globally. A trip to the emergency room can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. For instance, treating a broken leg can exceed £7,000, and complex surgeries can skyrocket into tens of thousands. Prescription medications are also significantly more expensive than in the UK.
Additionally, ambulance rides and hospital stays are notoriously expensive. A single night in a U.S. hospital can cost over £5,000. Without adequate insurance, even minor health concerns could become financially devastating.
READ MORE: USA Travel Insurance
Switzerland
Switzerland has some of the highest healthcare costs in Europe. While a GHIC or EHIC card can cover some treatment, it won’t cover private care or medical repatriation. Skiing accidents, for example, often require helicopter evacuation, which can be extremely costly without the right insurance.
Even minor medical procedures in Switzerland come with a hefty price tag, making insurance essential for covering any potential expenses. Without proper protection, visitors could end up being out of pocket for more than they'd expect.
READ MORE: EHIC, GHIC and Travel Insurance
The Caribbean
Many Caribbean nations have limited public healthcare facilities, making private care the only viable option - often at steep prices. In severe cases, patients are referred to the U.S. for treatment, resulting in additional costs for transportation and medical care. Without travel insurance, these expenses can be financially crippling.
Emergency evacuations from remote Caribbean islands can cost tens of thousands of pounds, particularly if air transport is required. Many hospitals demand upfront payment before providing treatment, adding further financial risk to uninsured travellers.
READ MORE: Worldwide Travel Insurance
Countries with High Crime Rates
While many destinations are safe for travellers, some have elevated crime rates that make insurance an absolute necessity. Petty theft, robbery, and scams can disrupt a trip and lead to unexpected costs.
READ MORE: How to Protect Yourself from Common Travel Scams
Brazil
Brazil’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes attract millions of tourists, but cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo have high crime rates, particularly for theft and muggings. A good travel insurance policy covers stolen belongings and emergency assistance, providing added security.
Travellers should also be aware of express kidnappings, where criminals force victims to withdraw large sums from cash machines. Having travel insurance that covers emergency funds replacement and assistance in such situations is crucial.
South Africa
Despite its breathtaking landscapes and safaris, South Africa’s urban areas, such as Johannesburg and Cape Town, experience high crime rates. Travel insurance helps cover losses from theft and assists in case of medical emergencies in remote locations.
While tourist areas are generally safe and well-patrolled, carjackings and armed robberies remain concerns in some regions, particularly in less populated or remote areas. Travellers are advised to stay vigilant, avoid displaying valuables, and stick to well-lit, busy areas whenever possible.
Mexico
While Mexico offers beautiful beaches and a rich history, certain urban areas experience high crime rates. Pickpocketing and scams are common in tourist hotspots, making comprehensive insurance essential for covering stolen valuables and emergency medical expenses.
Travel scams, such as fake taxi services and counterfeit goods, are common. A comprehensive travel insurance policy should cover fraud-related losses, ensuring you are protected against unauthorised transactions, identity theft, or scams that could occur while you’re travelling. This added layer of security provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without worrying about unexpected financial risks.
READ MORE: Personal Belongings Cover
Countries Where Travel Insurance is Mandatory
Some countries legally require visitors to have valid travel insurance covering medical emergencies and other unexpected costs.
READ MORE: Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Cuba
Cuba mandates travel insurance for all visitors. Proof of travel insurance is usually required upon arrival, and travellers without insurance must purchase a policy at the airport - which will likely be more expensive than if they had purchased it at home.
Medical facilities in Cuba vary in quality, and private hospitals, which provide better care, are not accessible without adequate insurance. It is recommended to carry proof of your policy in both digital and printed formats to avoid any complications upon arrival.
Galapagos Islands (Ecuador)
While Ecuador no longer requires travel insurance for the mainland, visitors to the Galapagos Islands must have protection in place due to the limited medical facilities available. Emergency evacuations to the mainland can be expensive without insurance.
Additionally, Galapagos regulations are strict, and visitors must comply with conservation laws. Some insurance policies offer liability cover, which can be useful in case of accidental damage to protected areas.
Schengen Area
Travellers requiring a Schengen visa (for trips longer than 90 days) must have travel insurance with a minimum cover of €30,000 for medical emergencies. While GHIC/EHIC cards cover some healthcare needs, they do not include all medical expenses or repatriation costs, making additional insurance a necessity.
Many European countries have high medical costs for non-residents. Without travel insurance, visitors may face significant expenses for anything beyond basic healthcare needs.
READ MORE: Europe Travel Insurance
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From covering sky-high healthcare costs in the U.S. to meeting visa requirements in the Schengen Area, travel insurance is a vital part of any trip. Emergencies are unpredictable, but being prepared ensures a stress-free journey.
Beyond financial security, travel insurance provides 24/7 support in case of lost documents, medical emergencies, or sudden itinerary changes. Some policies even offer concierge services to help with reservations, rebooking, or emergency translation.
Before you book your next trip, compare policies tailored to your needs. Whether you’re heading to the Swiss Alps, exploring Cuba’s vibrant streets, or relaxing on a Caribbean beach, the right protection will provide peace of mind.
Need help finding the best policy? At Medical Travel Compared, we take the hassle out of insurance. Compare plans quickly and easily to find the right cover for your adventure.
For more articles like this, make sure you explore our blog and guides.
Get a quoteSingle trip travel insurance is a type of cover that protects you for the entire duration of a specific trip. Unlike annual multi-trip policies, single trip insurance is ideal if you’re only planning to travel once within a year. It typically includes cover for cancellations, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and more, ensuring peace of mind while you’re away. If you’re not a frequent traveller, single trip travel insurance is a great option and will likely be cheaper than an annual policy.
If you travel 2 or more times a year, annual trip cover may very well save you money. The maximum duration of any trip will always be specified and will vary by provider. But don't worry, when you get a quote, we'll ask you what your maximum trip length is and only show you quotes that match!
“Pre-existing” refers to any medical condition for which medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment was recommended or received before applying for a travel insurance policy. For some conditions, we'll need to know if they have ever been present, whilst, for others, we need to know if they occurred within a certain period
It’s easy to tell us about your medical conditions! After you've provided your trip details and answered some medical history questions, you can add your pre-existing conditions, one by one, for each traveller on your policy. You'll only need to enter your details once; it's all online, and there's no need to call or provide details of your conditions in writing.