Coverage depends on plan specifics; conditions are clearly stated.

Generally yes, for claims purposes.

Yes, included in comprehensive medical plans.

1. Understand and evaluate the overall coverage
It is important to evaluate the overall coverage offered by a policy. This includes looking at the types of incidents covered, such as medical emergencies, lost or stolen baggage or belongings and trip cancellations. These are just some of the few things you will need to look at in order to determine whether a travel insurance plan best serves your needs. 

2. Compare the costs 
In order to find the best value, you should always compare the costs of different policies. The things you need to look at and consider are the premiums and any form of deductibles or copayments. Please also bear in mind that the costs will vary depending on the length and type of trip you are taking. Ensuring you are aware of all the costs will help you in finding the most suitable plan for you. 

3. Coverage for risky activities
If you are planning for an adventure that includes sports or extreme excursions, ensure that your travel insurance provides sufficient coverage for the types of activities that you will engage in. When it comes to indulging in risky activities during your travels, some travel insurance providers will exclude specific activities from coverage whilst some will charge extra premium in order to provide the coverage. 

4. Take into account your trip duration 
The duration of your trip also may impact the suitability of the travel insurance policy. Some insurance providers only provide coverage for a limited period of time and it varies between the different providers. You have to ensure that the insurance plan you are applying for provides coverage for the whole duration of your trip. 

5. Check for 24/7 assistance 
Having access to round-the-clock 24/7 assistance is especially useful when you're faced with an emergency while travelling abroad. Do check if the travel insurance provider of your policy provides such services so you can get any queries you have answered as quickly as possible.

6. Understand the fine print
Be sure to thoroughly read the terms and conditions of the travel insurance policy you're applying for. Pay close attention to any special restrictions, exclusions or conditions that may apply to you and your travelling itinerary as it might impact the coverage or cost of the policy.

7. Be aware of any exclusions 
Check for any exclusion in the policy of your choice. These exclusions may apply to dangerous activities, pre-existing medical conditions, and natural disasters. Depending on the nature of your trip, do ensure that you are not excluded from any coverage that you require. 

8. The reputation of the insurance provider
Look for online reviews or talk to the people around you to understand if the services provided by the insurance provider are up to standard. Some things you need to find out are the speed of processing, the customer service and also the cost and coverage provided by the travel insurance provider to ensure your trip is as hassle-free as possible even if something undesirable happens.

9. Your age and health 
The status of your age and health might play a role in the amount of coverage your travel insurance plan provides and also the costs. Pre-existing medical conditions or travellers of a certain age may mean you are at a higher risk of incidents. 

10. Look out for travel insurance packaged deals
Travel insurance providers typically offer package deals for travel insurance policies which offer multiple types of coverage which includes medical insurance, trip cancellation insurance and travel interruption insurance. These deals allow you to get a more comprehensive coverage at a cheaper cost as opposed to picking and choosing the types of coverage you need.

Travel insurance is important because situations around the world have become a lot more fluid since the COVID-19 pandemic. With the world becoming increasingly connected, many of us are travelling much more than earlier decades, whether for business or leisure. This also makes us vulnerable to unforeseen circumstances when we’re overseas. In times of uncertainty such as calamities or civil commotions, having travel insurance makes navigating such difficult situations a little easier.

Travel insurance is a type of insurance that protects travellers from unexpected costs incurred due to travel-related events.
 
Like all other insurance products, travel insurance helps us manage risk by reducing the amount you have to pay out of your own pocket should something unforeseen happen. The most common risks associated with travelling include flight delays, diversions or cancellations (which may force you to look for your own accommodation and meals), loss/theft of personal items, lost or damaged baggage during transit and medical costs in the case of accidents or sickness. 
 
There are also scenarios that could increase your risks, such as:

1. Doing outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, skydiving and more
2. Travelling in a group or with elderly
3. Renting a vehicle for a road trip
4. Travelling to less developed countries 

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s also recommended to purchase policies with COVID-19 coverage to financially protect you should you need to receive COVID-19-related medical treatment or hospitalisation while overseas.
 
It is not mandatory for travellers from Singapore to purchase travel insurance, but it does help to give peace of mind when unexpected or unprecedented travel disruptions happen.

1. Overseas Medical Costs
 If you are diagnosed with an unexpected illness while travelling, you can claim for necessary and reasonable medical costs overseas. Coverage is usually valid for up to 90 days from the start of your trip and may vary based on your plan and age group. Comparing travel insurance plans helps you find those with the highest limits and most comprehensive medical coverage.
 
2. Overseas Allowance for Hospital Stays
Many travel insurance plans now include reimbursements for hospital stays abroad. This benefit has become particularly important due to the COVID-19 pandemic, providing peace of mind for travellers. It ensures that you receive financial support if you're hospitalised, helping to cover daily expenses during your stay.
 
3. Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
This benefit covers the costs of emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, including the return of mortal remains to Singapore. It ensures that you can get the necessary medical help during severe health emergencies, regardless of your location. This is particularly crucial for travellers engaging in high-risk activities or visiting remote areas.
 
4. Cancellation/Alteration/Interruption/Delay of Trip 
Travel plans can change unexpectedly due to severe illness, injury, or other unforeseen events. Travel insurance can cover trip cancellations, postponements, delays, and interruptions, providing reimbursement for non-refundable expenses. This coverage is essential for protecting your investment in your trip and can include compensation for accommodation, flights, and other prepaid services.
 
5. Flight Cancellation Linked to Known Event
 Events known publicly before your trip may not be covered under travel insurance. However, if you purchased your tickets and activated your insurance before the event became public knowledge, you might still be eligible for a claim.
 
6. Compensation in Cancelled Flight with Refund/Replacement
If your flight is cancelled but you receive a refund or are put on a replacement flight, travel insurance generally covers only unrecoverable costs. You may still claim for trip delay benefits, such as extra accommodation or meal costs. This ensures that even with unforeseen disruptions, you won't be left out-of-pocket for essential expenses during your journey.
 
7. Cancellation of Own Flight/Trip
Insurance typically covers unforeseen events beyond your control. If you change your travel plans voluntarily, you generally cannot claim unless your policy includes a "Cancellation for Any Reason" benefit. 
 
8. Pre-Existing Conditions
Although not commonly included in most travel insurance plans, some insurers offer coverage for pre-existing conditions. This type of coverage, often available at a higher premium, can be a lifesaver for travellers with chronic health issues. It ensures that they receive necessary medical care without incurring exorbitant costs, providing peace of mind and financial protection during their travels. When you compare travel insurance options, look for those that explicitly include pre-existing condition coverage to find the best fit for your needs.
 
9. Natural Disasters
 Travel insurance can provide coverage for trip disruptions caused by natural disasters, ensuring you are not financially burdened by these uncontrollable events. This includes coverage for evacuation, accommodation, and other expenses if a natural disaster affects your travel plans. Being prepared with the best travel insurance in Singapore can provide peace of mind during such unpredictable situations.
 
10. Adventure Sports
For those seeking adventure, some travel insurance plans cover activities like skiing, scuba diving, and bungee jumping. It's essential to check if your chosen policy includes these sports to ensure you're fully protected. Engaging in high-risk activities without appropriate coverage can lead to significant financial liabilities, making it crucial to compare travel insurance Singapore options carefully.

1. COVID-19-related Medical Coverage
This includes expenses for medical treatment if you contract COVID-19 while travelling. It's vital to check the limits and conditions to ensure they meet your needs, especially in countries with high medical costs.
 
2. COVID-19-related Overseas Hospital Cash
Some policies offer daily cash benefits if you're hospitalised abroad due to COVID-19, providing financial relief during a stressful period. This can help cover incidental costs or lost travel opportunities.
 
3. COVID-19-related Trip Cancellation or Postponement
Seek policies that cover cancellation or postponement costs due to COVID-19, such as positive test results before departure or travel bans. This can save you significant financial loss on pre-booked arrangements.
 
4. COVID-19-related Emergency Medical Evacuation/Repatriation
In severe cases, you may require medical evacuation or repatriation. Ensure your policy includes coverage for such scenarios linked to COVID-19 to avoid overwhelming expenses.

1. Pre-existing conditions
Most travel insurance policies exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, including those related to COVID-19. It's crucial to understand these exclusions before purchasing a policy to ensure you won’t be left in the lurch should anything unexpected happen.
 
2. Replacement of traveller or employee before departure 
Costs associated with replacing a traveller or employee before departure due to COVID-19 related issues are typically not covered. If you are purchasing a policy as or for an employee, it’s best to consult your company’s HR department for more information on financial protection while overseas or travelling.
 
3. Extreme sports/professional or competitive sports
Activities deemed high-risk, such as extreme or professional sports, are usually excluded from COVID-19 coverage, along with other standard policy exclusions.
 
4. Any travel against prohibitions/acts/travel alerts/bulletins by any government or public authority (except for specific COVID-19 situations)
Travel undertaken against the advice or restrictions of governments or public authorities, except under specific COVID-19 circumstances outlined in your policy, will not be covered.

Most insurers now offer an online claims platform. This saves you the hassle of having to make claims in person at the branch office. To get your claims processed quickly, follow these 7 steps for faster travel insurance claims. Be sure to document as many details as possible and keep the original receipts and reports from police, hospitals, airlines, hotels etc. Lastly, always provide proof of travel – the stamp in your passport would usually suffice.

Below are some common scenarios where you will need to provide documentation when submitting a travel insurance claim:
 
1. Travel disruption / cancellation - Written proof of the delay/cancellation from your airline, hotel or travel agent such as an email or message will be needed to claim for travel disruption.
2. Lost / Damaged Personal Belongings - Submit a police report, the original invoice/receipt for your item, your bill for repairs (if applicable).
3. Emergency assistance - It’s a good practice to save your insurer’s emergency assistance hotline and your policy details to your phone before travelling. In the event of an emergency, contact your insurer with your policy number to arrange for help.
4. Personal accident/medical expenses - Keep all original receipts, your medical report, and a police report where applicable. File your claim as soon as you’ve returned to Singapore. You may need to submit the original documents by mail.

1. Report the incident to your insurance providers
 It is important that you inform your travel insurance provider as soon as possible upon the time of incident as it will allow them to start processing your claim and provide you with all the required assistance without any delays. Although most travel insurance providers claim to be made within 30 days via the available channels, it is recommended that you not wait too long.
 
2. Gather all your relevant documents
To ensure your claims process is as efficient as possible, do remember to gather all the relevant documents that support your claim. Some of the things you might require are:
 
NRIC, FIN No. or other official forms of ID
Proof of trip such as tickets, receipts, boarding passes, photocopy of passports and visas
Reports or documents from the airline or relevant authority acknowledging the loss of baggage
Medical reports or any related evidence in the form of photos and/or emails
Proof of ownership of lost baggage and items
 
3. Submit your claim
Upon gathering all necessary documents, promptly submit your claim to the travel insurance companies. Most travel insurance companies offer the option of submitting claims via online means or in person - whichever is most convenient for you.
 
4. Wait for review
After your claim has been submitted, the insurance company will do a review of your claim submission to determine your eligibility for coverage. This process may take several days to a few weeks depending on the complexity and severity of your case. Ensure you are contactable throughout this period as your travel insurance provider might contact you for further clarification.