Planning for your next travel destination?
More and more countries are opening their borders to travelers. However, rules and restrictions regarding COVID-19 outbreaks in each country can change quickly. As such, it’s smart to be prepared for possible COVID-19-related mishaps.
Thankfully, there are travel insurance plans that provide COVID-19 coverage. This coverage will protect you from financial losses due to unexpected disruptions. For instance, there are policies that provide compensation for COVID-19 trip-related cancellations, medical coverage, and overseas quarantine allowance.
COVID-19 Travel Insurance Coverage
A travel insurance plan with COVID-19 coverage is essential, according to financial experts. There’s still a high possibility of contracting COVID-19 before, during, and after traveling. This coverage will help take care of the costs related to medical coverage, travel cancellation, travel postponement, quarantine allowance, and other COVID-19-related disruptions.
Here are some of the basic COVID-19 travel insurance coverage features:
- Medical costs incurred abroad: This provides compensation for medical costs if the policyholder is diagnosed with Coronavirus while traveling abroad.
- Cash for hospitalization or quarantine overseas: Cash benefit for each day if the policyholder is hospitalized or quarantined due to COVID-19.
- Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation: This will compensate the policyholder for the costs incurred in case of emergency transportation to a hospital for COVID-19 treatment or any sustained serious injury due to COVID while abroad.
- Cancellation, rescheduling, or interruption of the trip: Policyholders will not have to worry about the costs if the trip needs to be canceled, cut short, or postponed. However, the amount of compensation will vary per policy and insurance company.
- Allowance for an early return home: If the policyholder has to come home early due to coronavirus, the insurance company will refund extra traveling costs and the cost of the unused day(s) of accommodation.
Top 7 Travel Insurance Companies in Singapore With COVID-19 Coverage
1. FWD Travel Insurance
FWD Travel Insurance is one of the best options if you’re looking for affordable travel insurance plans in Singapore. They offer three tiers of travel insurance plans with different levels of coverage – whether it’s a single trip or an annual multi-trip.
With FWD, you can enhance your coverage with a COVID-19 add-on benefit. This policy will protect you in the event you are diagnosed with coronavirus before, during, or after your trip.
COVID-19 Coverage Details:
- Overseas medical expenses: S$200,000 to S$1,000,000
- Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$5,000
- Overseas quarantine allowance: S$50/day up to 14 days
- Emergency repatriation: up to S$200,000
Premium (for a 7-day trip to ASEAN destination, before promo): S$32.40 to S$63.60 (Add S$15.45 for COVID-19 coverage)
Benefits Offered:
- Overseas medical expenses
- Theft or damage to your personal belongings
- Baggage delay
- Travel delay
- Liability for harm or damage you accidentally cause
- Automatic travel cover extension
Policy Options Available: Premium Plan, Business Plan, and First Plan
Reviews:
“Good experience! First time claiming for travel insurance for flight delay and it was a great experience.” – Joanne Chua
“They always offer the best price for travel insurance. I thought the claim process will be a nightmare. However, it is very easy & straightforward. Your claims get approved very quickly if you submit the documents correctly. Kudos on the service!” – Viraj Jayasekara
2. MSIG Travel Insurance
MSIG TravelEasy Travel Insurance provides excellent protection from travel cancellation to flight delays, stolen travel documents, overseas medical expenses, and more. The COVID-19 travel insurance coverage is automatically included for Single Trips and Annual Plans.
COVID-19 Coverage Details:
- Overseas medical expenses: S$250,000 to S$1,000,000
- Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$3,000 to S$5,000
- Overseas quarantine allowance: S$50/day to S$100/day up to 14 days
- Emergency repatriation: S$1,000,000
- COVID-19 trip postponement: S$500 to S$1,500
Premium (for a 7-day trip to an ASEAN destination, before promo): S$61 to S$114
Benefits Offered:
- Personal accident
- Loss or damage to baggage
- Trip delay or cancellation
- Emergency medical repatriation
- Overseas medical coverage
- Stolen travel documents
Policy Options Available: Standard Plan, Elite Plan, and Premiere Plan
Reviews:
“Melvin is very helpful, approachable, professional, and competent. He is able to clarify clearly some of the issues regarding travel insurance. He was very patient. He goes step by step to assist me in filling up the forms as I am not digital and tech-savvy. Thanks to Melvin, we are able to submit the forms successfully! Certainly, he is a credit to MSIG.” – Goh Jacqueline
“First time buying from MSIG online. After some comparisons, their plans were the most comprehensive at the right price inclusive of covid cover (they had the best coverage suitable for elderly people as I bought for my parents). The process was nothing out of the ordinary and had no glitches. Gave me peace of mind which ultimately served my goal of insurance” – Stephen Lin
3. NTUC Income Travel Insurance
Looking for a travel insurance plan that covers pre-existing conditions? NTUC Income Travel Insurance is a good option with three levels of policies. Each plan caters to different needs and budgets. NTUC Travel Insurance also provides comprehensive COVID-19 coverage for single-trip plans and yearly plans with multiple trips in a year.
COVID-19 Coverage Details:
- Overseas medical expenses: S$150,000
- Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$2,000
- Overseas quarantine allowance: S$100/day up to 14 days (max. S$1,400 to S$4,200)
- Emergency repatriation: S$150,000
- COVID-19 trip postponement: S$2,000
Premium (for a 7-day trip to an ASEAN destination, before promo): S$61 to S$98
Benefits Offered:
- Trip cancellation and delay
- Loss or damage to baggage
- Personal accident
- Overseas medical expenses
Policy Options Available: 3 tiers of plans for Standard (Classic, Deluxe, and Preferred) and Enhanced PreX plans (Basic, Superior, and Prestige)
Reviews:
“Fortunately the claims are smooth and easy to submit. I managed to get FULL 100% public & private hospital bill claims (5 fig $) including pre & post hospital visits to clinics which are also claimable. They didn’t take too long to reimburse me either.” – 1ting
4. DBS Chubb Travel Insurance
DBS Travel Insurance is underwritten by Chubb Insurance Singapore Limited with more than 50 years of experience. Chubb Travel Insurance provides top-notch quality policies and services to travelers.
That said, the main DBS travel insurance is called TravellerShield Plus and it comes in three tiers. It also comes with comprehensive COVID-19 coverage. This insurance plan is not the same as the free complimentary travel insurance that comes with your DBS Treasures credit card.
COVID-19 Coverage Details:
- Overseas medical expenses: S$50,000 to S$200,000
- Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$2,500 to S$7,500
- Overseas quarantine allowance: S$100/day to S$1,400/day up to 14 days
- Emergency repatriation: S$50,000 to S$200,000
- Early return home: S$2,500 to S$7,500
Premium (for a 7-day trip to an ASEAN destination, before promo): S$51 to S$120
Benefits Offered:
- Trip cancellation
- Trip delay
- Loss or damage to baggage
- Personal accident
- Emergency medical evacuation
Policy Options Available: Classic, Premiere, Platinum plans
Reviews:
“Managed to claim travel insurance for Covid. The process was quite hassle-free and fast. With medical records that he tested positive while overseas we manage to successfully claim not only for himself but also along with travelling companions.” – Desmond Lee
“I have not made an insurance claim in over 20 years, so I had no idea what to expect when we experienced the loss of a valuable bracelet. Chubb and their agents were timely and efficient. They didn’t give us any issues regarding the loss. It was highly responsive and professional as they took care of the situation. I would highly recommend insuring with them and will continue to use them going forward.” – Alan Graham
5. Singlife with Aviva Travel Insurance
Singlife is a popular insurance company in Singapore since they provide life insurance for those doing National Service. But aside from life insurance, they also offer affordable comprehensive coverage for travelers.
Singlife with Aviva Travel Insurance’s coverage offers good value for money and has three tiers you can choose from – Lite, Plus, and Prestige. It also comes with COVID-19 coverage that is pretty decent and is automatically included, unlike some plans such as FWD’s travel insurance.
COVID-19 Coverage Details:
- Overseas medical expenses: S$50,000 to S$200,000
- Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$500 to S$7,500
- Overseas quarantine allowance: S$50/day to S$100/day up to 14 days
- Emergency repatriation: S$30,000 to S$500,000; Unlimited for Prestige Plan
Premium (for a 7-day trip to an ASEAN destination, before promo): S$39.77 to S$78.68
Benefits Offered:
- 24/7 emergency travel assistance
- Loss of frequent flyer points
- Loss of baggage
- Accidental death and disability
- Overseas emergency medical expenses
- Personal liability
- Trip interruption
Policy Options Available: Classic, Premiere, Platinum plans
Reviews:
“Highly Recommend Aviva. Dependable Insurer who was truly concerned for client’s welfare! Heartfelt Thank you to Aviva!” – Dawn Tan
“So far so good! Happy with the 2 savings policies I have with Aviva as I feel the returns are competitive. Out of convenience, I also tend to use Aviva for travel insurance whenever I travel – the purchase process is very simple and straightforward.” – Yvonne Yeo
6. HL Assurance Travel Protect360
HL Assurance is a member of the Hong Leong Group. The COVIDSafe Travel Protect360 offers three tiers of plans –Enhanced, Supreme, and Premiere, for both single and annual multi-trips. It is perfect for travelers on a budget with its relatively affordable pricing and decent coverage.
Note that their Basic Plan does not include COVID-19 coverage. To enjoy comprehensive coverage for coronavirus-related trip disruptions, consider getting the Enhanced plan tier or higher.
COVID-19 Coverage Details:
- Overseas medical expenses: S$50,000 to S$200,000
- Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$1,000 to S$3,000
- Overseas quarantine allowance: S$500/day to S$1,500/day up to 14 days
- Emergency repatriation: Unlimited for Enhanced, Supreme, and Premier
Premium (for a 7-day trip to an ASEAN destination, before promo): S$79 to S$135
Benefits Offered:
- Overseas medical coverage
- Loss or damage of baggage
- Personal accident
- Flight diversion
Policy Options Available: Basic, Enhanced, Supreme, and Premiere plans
Reviews:
“We have bought a few travel policies from them as their prices are competitive. They will give you a stacked discount if you buy consecutive travel policies without making any claims. Their relationship officers are quite helpful and flexible with amending policy terms. So far so good, but we haven’t made any claims yet though.” – Stephen Low
“Found travel insurance rates are competitive with the discounts. Hope to purchase for future travels if rates remain competitive. Great to receive policies on the same day of purchase and email notifications to keep me updated. Great service! Thanks” – Sam Ng
7. Bubblegum Travel Insurance
Bubblegum Travel Insurance is a digital insurance ecosystem built by the team behind MoneySmart Group. The insurance plan is underwritten by India International Insurance Pte Ltd. It is one of the most affordable travel insurance policies that come with COVID-19 coverage – at no additional cost!
COVID-19 Coverage Details:
- Overseas medical expenses: Up to S$65,000
- Trip cancellations or disruptions: Up to S$600
- Overseas quarantine allowance: Up to 1,400/day up to 14 days
- Early return home: Up to S$600
Premium (for a 7-day trip to an ASEAN destination, before promo): S$28.65
Benefits Offered:
- Overseas medical coverage
- Loss or damage of baggage
- Travel or baggage delay
- Personal accident
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Adventurous activities
Policy Options Available: Premium plan
Reviews: Not Available
Comparison Table with Pricing and Coverage Benefits
Travel Insurance Providers | Travel Insurance Premiums (for a 7-day trip to an ASEAN destination, before promo) | COVID-19 Travel Insurance Cover Limits |
FWD Travel Insurance | S$32.40 to S$63.60(Add S$15.45 for COVID-19 coverage) | • Overseas medical expenses: S$200,000 to S$1,000,000 • Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$5,000 • Overseas quarantine allowance: S$50/day up to 14 days |
MSIG Travel Insurance | S$61 to S$114 | • Overseas medical expenses: S$250,000 to S$1,000,000 • Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$3,000 to S$5,000 • Overseas quarantine allowance: S$50/day to S$100/day up to 14 days |
NTUC Income Travel Insurance | S$61 to S$98 | • Overseas medical expenses: S$150,000 •Trip cance llations or disruptions: S$2,000 • Overseas quarantine allowance: S$100/day up to 14 days |
DBS Chubb Travel Insurance | S$51 to S$120 | • Overseas medical expenses: S$50,000 to S$200,000 • Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$2,500 to S$7,500 • Overseas quarantine allowance: S$100/day to S$1,400/day up to 14 days |
Singlife with Aviva Travel Insurance | S$39.77 to S$78.68 | • Overseas medical expenses: S$50,000 to S$200,000 • Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$500 to S$7,500 • Overseas quarantine allowance: S$50/day to S$100/day up to 14 days |
HL Assurance Travel Insurance | S$79 to S$135 | • Overseas medical expenses: S$50,000 to S$200,000 • Trip cancellations or disruptions: S$1,000 to S$3,000 • Overseas quarantine allowance: S$500/day to S$1,500/day up to 14 days |
Bubblegum Travel Insurance | S$28.65 | • Overseas medical expenses: Up to S$65,000 • Trip cancellations or disruptions: Up to S$600 • Overseas quarantine allowance: Up to S$1,400/day up to 14 days |
To Summarize
Who Is the Best Company To Get Travel Insurance?
If you are one of those travelers looking for the cheapest travel insurance plan, then Bubblegum’s simple and fuss-free insurance plan is a good option.
At around S$28.85, you’ll enjoy benefits for travel mishaps, including overseas medical expenses, loss or damaged baggage, travel delay and cancellations, and more. Plus, it comes with COVID-19 coverage of up to S$65,000 for coronavirus-related medical expenses, up to S$1,400 in hospital cash, and S$5,000 compensation for a cancelled trip.
Which Company Is Best for International Travel Insurance?
Some travel insurance companies in Singapore offer COVID-19 coverage as an add-on benefit to an existing travel insurance plan.Thankfully, more and more travel insurance providers now include COVID-19 coverage benefits in their tiers of plans.
If you don’t mind paying higher premiums for higher COVID-19 coverage limits, then consider getting MSIG Travel Insurance plans. Starting at S$61, you are covered up to S$250,000 for COVID-19-related emergency expenses, up to S$3,000 for trip cancellations, and S$50/day hospital cash.
How Do Travel Claims Work?
With today’s digital landscape, you can easily submit a travel insurance claim online – from anywhere and at any time.
Tip: Know what you can and can’t claim for. Save a copy of your travel insurance policy in your email or on your phone. Plus, consider documenting your travels by taking photos of your luggage, personal belongings, receipts, invoices, and more.
Step 1: Contact your travel insurance company as soon as possible. Some policies have a time limit on how long you can wait before submitting a claim – usually 30 days.
Step 2: Prepare all the necessary supporting documents. Make sure to keep medical memos, invoices, bills, police reports, written confirmation from the carrier/airline, etc.
Step 3: Fill up and submit an insurance claim. Thankfully, most travel insurance companies can process insurance claims online or in person.
Step 4: For the Covid-19 travel insurance claim, make sure to prepare supporting documents. Here are a few documents you may need:
- Doctor’s memo stating that you have caught COVID-19 and you need treatment
- Show your vaccination status
- Flight itinerary and boarding pass
- Medical bills
- Medical report
The travel insurance claims process can take between a week to a month. That said, make sure to provide your travel insurance company with all the supporting documents to avoid delays.
Conclusion
Traveling is always full of surprises. Unfortunately, this includes possible mishaps related to COVID-19 – whether it’s a postponed trip or an infection. That said, it’s smart to get a travel insurance plan that covers COVID-19-related disruptions to protect against losses.
Key Takeaways:
- Travel insurance plans provide added protection against financial losses in case of flight delays, loss of baggage, medical emergencies, and more.
- A COVID-19 travel insurance coverage will help take care of the costs related to coronavirus-related medical expenses, travel postponement, quarantine allowance, and other COVID-19-related disruptions.
- Some travel insurance companies in Singapore offer COVID-19 coverage as an add-on benefit to an existing travel insurance plan while other insurance providers already have a COVID-19 coverage inclusion.
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