Thailand is a globally popular tourist destination, with many popular spots, such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, that attract numerous travelers.
However, the risk of injury or illness during travel cannot be ignored. Many travelers have faced high medical bills in Thailand, and those without insurance may be in trouble with unexpected expenses.
| Details of the illness | Medical expenses claimed |
| Hit by a motorcycle and transported to the hospital. Diagnosed with a skull fracture, epidural hematoma, and clavicle fracture, resulting in 28 days of hospitalization and surgery. Medical evacuation with doctors and nurses accompanying the patient. | $63,100 |
| While riding a speedboat, suffered a severe impact on the lower back due to waves and was transported by ambulance. Diagnosed with a lumbar compression fracture and hospitalized for 7 days with surgery. | $45,180 |
| Visited the hospital complaining of lower back pain and leg numbness. Diagnosed with spondylolisthesis and hospitalized for 8 days with surgery. | $26,630 |
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Medical insurance is strongly recommended before traveling to Thailand to protect against such high medical expenses. The following insurance providers offer comprehensive coverage with excellent cost performance and can be purchased online:
This article provides a detailed overview of the importance of medical insurance for a trip to Thailand, as well as recommended insurance services that can be easily purchased online.
Safety Information for Thailand
For those planning overseas travel, it is always recommended to check local safety information before departure, regardless of the destination.
In particular, near the Malaysian border in southern Thailand, there are frequent incidents of attacks and explosions by Islamic separatist groups, making caution necessary.
On the other hand, in regions like Bangkok, travel advisories have been lifted, but it is still essential to check the latest safety information before departure.
Is Medical Insurance Mandatory for Traveling to Thailand?
Some countries require proof of medical insurance upon entry.
For example, the Czech Republic mandates that travelers present proof of medical insurance upon entry, and during their stay, they must always carry the insurance certificate along with their passport or risk being fined.
* Reference: Which countries require travel insurance when entering the country?
However,Thailand does not require medical insurance for short-term visitors.
Even for short-term travel in Thailand, medical expenses can be significant if you’re uninsured, so it’s highly recommended to have medical insurance in case of unexpected situations.
Troubles and Illnesses to Watch Out for When Traveling in Thailand
Thailand is generally considered a safe country, and in popular tourist areas, it’s said to be safe for women to walk alone at night. However, travelers should remain cautious.
In addition to safety, here are some things to be aware of when traveling in Thailand:
- Traffic Accidents
- Food Poisoning
- Colds
Those who have visited Thailand may have encountered these problems or illnesses.
1. Traffic Accidents
Thailand has a high rate of traffic accidents, and the concept of pedestrian right-of-way is virtually non-existent. You may be surprised by the disregard for pedestrian safety.
Local transportation, such as motorbikes, taxis, and tuk-tuks, is often fast and chaotic. Travelers unfamiliar with local conditions may be at risk of accidents.
If you plan to rent a motorbike or use a motorbike taxi, exercise caution. In particular, if you plan to drive yourself, having insurance is highly recommended.
2. Food Poisoning
While Thailand offers many attractive food options through street stalls and restaurants, hygiene can sometimes be an issue. First-time visitors to Thailand may be surprised by the lack of cleanliness at some stalls.
If you’re concerned, it’s best to avoid street food. Pay special attention to untreated water, ice, and raw vegetables.
If you do experience food poisoning or become ill due to a meal, seek medical attention promptly for appropriate treatment.
3. Colds
Although Thailand has a warm climate, many indoor areas such as trains, shopping malls, and cafes are heavily air-conditioned. This sudden temperature change can cause travelers to become ill.
Air conditioning can make you catch a cold, and the difference in night-time temperatures may also increase the likelihood of getting sick. Over-the-counter medication is readily available at pharmacies, so act quickly if symptoms appear.
If your condition worsens, seek medical attention as soon as possible for proper treatment.
Be Aware of Minor Crimes as a Traveler in Thailand
Minor crimes, such as theft targeting tourists, are common in Thailand.
Particularly in crowded tourist spots and busy areas, there have been many reports of minor crimes.
Here are some specific examples:
1. Theft in Tourist Areas
Travelers may become targets of theft when leaving their belongings unattended at cafes or restaurants.
In places like shopping malls’ food courts and cafes, be cautious with your personal belongings. Leaving bags or smartphones unattended on the table can result in theft.
2. Pickpocketing on Public Transport
Pickpocketing incidents tend to occur during rush hour on public transportation in Bangkok, particularly during the morning commute and evening rush hours.
Travelers are more likely to be targeted, and although Bangkok is considered safe, incidents of pickpocketing occur frequently.
3. Theft at Beaches or Pools
In beach resorts like Phuket or Pattaya, there are frequent reports of thefts targeting travelers’ belongings while they are swimming.
Be careful when leaving your items unattended on the beach.
4. Scams by Fake Police Officers
In Thailand, there have been incidents where fake police officers approach travelers and ask them to check their identification under false pretenses, such as verifying passports or wallets, then fabricate an offense and demand fines or steal cash.
This type of scam occurs particularly in nightlife areas. Official police officers do not ask for on-the-spot payments, so refuse suspicious requests and report to the nearest police station.
5. Theft in Nightlife Areas
Thefts targeting travelers are frequently reported in nightlife areas in Thailand. Busy places like Bangkok’s nightlife district or Pattaya’s Walking Street are particularly prone to incidents where bags are stolen. When going out to nightlife areas, it’s best to carry minimal valuables or avoid taking them out altogether.
To prepare for unforeseen circumstances during your trip, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance.
Recommended Online Insurance Services for Travelers to Thailand
If you encounter unexpected accidents or incidents while traveling in Thailand and require medical care, you may be surprised by the high medical bills.
Additionally, there’s a risk of being involved in theft or other problems.
Below are three recommended travel insurance providers that can be easily applied for online:
1. Safety Wings
Safety Wings offers affordable, comprehensive coverage, with plans designed especially for long-term travelers and digital nomads.
Safety Wings features
- Monthly premium: $56.28
- Minimum coverage period: 5 days
- Immediate coverage is available even while abroad, with no waiting period
- 24/7 support via live chat
- Coverage for flight delays and lost baggage
The specific details of the insurance coverage are as follows.
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $250,000 | Hospitalization, nursing care, emergency ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnostics, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, pregnancy complications. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $1,000 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected onset). |
| Emergency Transportation | $100,000 | Costs for emergency transportation to a well-equipped hospital. |
| Medical Return | $5,000 | Emergency return costs for medical reasons. |
| Emergency Return | $5,000 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to a family member’s death. |
| Lost Baggage | $3,000 | Compensation if baggage is not found after 10 days of being reported lost (maximum $500 per item). |
| Flight Delay | $200 | Meal and accommodation expenses for delays of 12 hours or more (maximum of $100 per day for up to 2 days). |
| Passport Theft | $100 | Costs for issuing a passport or visa in case of theft. |
| Car Accident | $250,000 | Accidental car accidents occur while possessing the appropriate license and wearing safety gear. |
| Trip Interruption (Return) | $250,000 | Circumstances necessitating a return due to a family member’s death. |
| Death | $20,000 | Transportation costs for repatriation of remains to Japan (guarantee of $10,000 for local burial). |
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Safety Wing offers a simple enrollment process, allowing you to join immediately even while traveling. It provides medical coverage of up to $250,000, in addition to covering general medical insurance, making it a cost-effective travel insurance option.
You can easily estimate the premium tailored to your travel schedule on Safety Wing’s official website.
Nomad Insurance for $56.28/month
* Easy estimate of insurance premiums according to your travel plan!
2. World Nomads
World Nomads is a travel insurance that provides ample coverage even in countries with high medical costs, such as the United States. It covers not only injuries and illnesses but also accidents related to adventure activities and sports, with the ability to add or update insurance during your travels.
World Nomads Features
- Insurance fees vary depending on the destination
(e.g., $265.07 per month for insurance that includes the U.S. for 4 weeks). - The maximum medical coverage limit is $5 million (unlimited plans available).
- Coverage for flight delays and lost baggage is included.
- 24/7 support (phone/email).
The specific details of the insurance coverage are as follows.
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $5 million | Hospitalization, nursing care, emergency ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnostics, long-term care after discharge, prescriptions, etc. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $300 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected onset). |
| Medical Transportation | $500,000 | Costs for emergency transportation to a well-equipped hospital. |
| Medical Return | $500,000 | Costs associated with emergency return due to sudden illness or injury. |
| Emergency Return | $5,000 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to a family member’s death. |
| Baggage Coverage | $2,500 | Coverage for theft, damage, or loss of baggage that occurs during travel. |
| Flight Delay | $500 | Compensation for additional accommodation and transportation costs incurred due to flight cancellation or delays over 12 hours. |
| Trip Interruption (Return) | $3,500 | Costs for returning due to family illness or death. |
| Death | $15,000 | Transportation costs for repatriation of remains to Japan, or costs for local burial. |
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World Nomads is recommended for travelers who want comprehensive insurance, especially for those planning trips to countries with high medical costs, such as the United States or Canada.
You can also easily add or update your insurance while traveling, making it flexible for long trips or unforeseen circumstances.
Start by trying an estimate for your travel plan on the World Nomads website.
3. Heymondo
Heymondo is a travel insurance option that provides high-cost performance and a wide range of coverage. Various insurance plans are available, catering to both short trips and long stays.
Heymondo Features
- A cost-effective three-month plan for long-term travelers.
- Insurance premiums vary depending on the destination country.
- The maximum medical coverage limit is $5 million (or $10,000,000).
- Coverage for flight delays and lost baggage.
- 24/7 support (phone/email).
- The specific details of the insurance coverage are as follows.
The specific details of the insurance coverage are as follows.
| Coverage Type | Coverage Limit | Examples of Coverage |
| Medical Insurance | $5 million | Hospitalization, nursing care, ambulance for hospitalization, MRI diagnostics, long-term care after discharge, etc. |
| Emergency Dental Treatment | $300 | Emergency dental treatment to resolve acute pain (sudden and unexpected). |
| Extended Stay Cost | $1,800 | Emergency transportation costs to a well-equipped hospital. |
| Medical Return | $5 million | Emergency return costs for medical reasons. |
| Emergency Transport | $5,000 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to a family member’s death. |
| Baggage Coverage | $1,700 | Transportation costs for emergency return due to family bereavement. |
| Flight Delay | $450 | Meal and accommodation costs for delays over 12 hours (up to $100 per day for a maximum of 2 days). |
| Trip Interruption (Return) | $3,500 | Circumstances requiring return due to family death, etc. |
| Death | $100,000 | Transportation costs to return the body to Japan (up to $10,000 for local burial). |
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The standard plan, “Travel Insurance Top,” provides medical coverage up to $5 million, while the premium plan, “Travel Insurance Premium,” increases the coverage to $10 million.
You can easily check detailed insurance premium estimates on the Heymondo website. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, make sure to check the insurance plans now.
Thank you for reading all the way through!!
If you’re looking for the best travel insurance services, be sure to visit the following page: The Best Nomad Insurance; We highly recommend Safety Wing [$56/month]
We’ve carefully selected popular travel insurance services and provided detailed explanations of their features and benefits, so you should be able to find the perfect insurance plan for you.
