one way travel insurance malaysia

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Get your AIG Travel Insurance Online Today!

Our travel insurance covers flight delay, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, medical expenses & more for your holiday.

Travel Insurance Overview

No matter where your next holiday destination is, we’re here to keep you safe during your holiday.

We provide comprehensive travel insurance protection coverage for you to fully enjoy your trip.

Get covered easily online! Purchase your travel insurance online at  AIG Travel Insurance

Our most popular features include

Cashless hospitalisation & medical expenses coverage up to RM1 million (with COVID-19 coverage up to RM700,000)

If your trip is cancelled due to covered events , we’ll reimburse up to RM15,000

Protection for loss of baggage & personal belongings  up to RM8,000

Lump sum payout up to RM400,000

Wherever you are in the world,  we’re ready to help 24/7.

Stress-Free Claims. Submit travel claims online in a few clicks, done! Make online claim here>

Instant and easy online purchase  for your next trip.   Buy online here>

COVID-19 Coverage

In the event you are diagnosed with COVID-19, we will provide you COVID-19 coverage including Medical and Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation Expenses up to RM700,000, Travel Cancellation, Travel Curtailment and Quarantine Allowance benefits (applicable to Basic, Standard or Deluxe Plan only).

Medical Expenses (including cashless hospital admission)

If you are hospitalised due to accident or  illness (excluding pre-existing conditions),  AIG Travel Insurance will cover the hospitalisation expenses incurred up to RM1 million. Our travel assistance team is on call by phone to provide you emergency travel assistance, ensuring you receive appropriate medical care.

Comprehensive coverage

AIG Travel Insurance provides you with coverage for domestic and overseas medical expenses, trip cancellation, travel interruptions and delays, emergency medical expenses, medical evacuation costs and lost, damaged or delayed baggage.

Personal Accident cover

You can get lump sum payout up to RM400,000 if you suffer from an accidental death or permanent disablement during your trip with AIG Travel Insurance.

Trip cancellation cover

Don't worry about the costs of transport & accommodation due to your trip cancellation. We’ll reimburse you the non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled due to specific events, within a specific time before your departure date.

Natural disasters

AIG Travel Insurance will pay for travel inconveniences related expenses against natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods and volcano eruptions, occurring at the country of travel.

Our own global assistance service

We have a fast and efficient 24-hour Emergency Assistance Team available to assist you in the event of injury following an accident or if you are ill and require hospital attention abroad.

Travel Inconvenience

We provide you coverage for travel inconveniences such as travel delays, loss or damage to your personal belongings, fraudulent use of credit card, car rental excess charges and more.

* Coverage differs according to product & plan. Please refer to policy wording for full details of coverage and exclusions.

Skip The Odds Video | Trip Cancellation

When emergency strikes, your travel plans might have to be cancelled and losing all your non-refundable expenses due to unexpected events is the worst part of travelling. The Skippers learned this the hard way. Keep your trip protected and your wallet healthy with  AIG Travel Insurance ! Available via online purchase.

#AIGSkipTheOdds #AIGJagaYou

*Terms and conditions apply.

SKIP THE ODDS | MEDICAL EXPENSES You'll never know when injuries happen during your travel, so learn from the Skippers and protect yourself against unexpected medical expenses.

SKIP THE ODDS | FLIGHT DELAY Think you’re safe from flight delays? The Skippers thought they were as well. But unlike them, don’t let this be the end of the trip you’ve dreamed about.

SKIP THE ODDS | LOSS OF PERSONAL BELONGINGS Losing a luggage is a hassle. Imagine losing your phone too! Unlike the Skippers, you have the choice to not let this mishap interrupt the rest of your trip.

How we helped our customers - Actual Travel Claim Stories

While traveling in the united kingdom, an insured sustained a hip injury and underwent a surgery...more.

An insured fell while travelling in the United Kingdom and sustained a hip injury. Due to the severity of the injury, the insured underwent a surgery and was discharged two weeks after.

Escorted by an AIG medical nurse, the insured safely returned home to Malaysia. The total cost of medical treatment and repatriation amounted to approximately RM80,000 was fully covered under the insured’s travel policy with us.

* This case is based on a real AIG claim. Name and personal details of the insured have been withheld for privacy purposes.

On his trip to Laos, while golfing, an insured sustained rib fractures, and had to be repatriated home...more

An insured was golfing in Laos and was accidentally knocked over by a buggy. The insured sustained multiple rib fractures with chest contusion and abrasion wounds. Due to the severity of the injuries, the insured was admitted to a hospital in Thailand and was monitored conservatively.

Upon discharge, the insured was repatriated home to Malaysia escorted by an AIG nurse and with special flight arrangements, which included additional oxygen supplies on flight, as well as ground ambulance and wheelchair arrangements. The insured was directly admitted to a medical facility upon touchdown for further medical care.

The medical and repatriation expenses of almost RM40,000 were fully covered under the insured’s travel policy with us.

Read more Actual Travel Claim Stories >

Quote & buy online, before your next trip!

Just answer a few quick questions to get your quote online :

Your trip destination and period

How many people to cover

The level of cover you need - View a selection of plans along with sum insured and premium

24/7 Worldwide Travel Assistance

To contact Travel Guard from anywhere in the world, call:

+60 3 2772 5600

Read more about our types of Travel Assistance Services here>

Downloads, Claims

• Product Disclosure Sheet 
• Policy Wording 
• Policy Amendment Form 
• Direct Debit Authorization Form
• Beneficiary Nomination Form 
• Make A Claim 
• Travel Claim Checklist 
• Travel Claim Notification Form 
• Claims Payment Method Form

Please be advised that the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine may impact travel insurance coverages and benefits, and AIG Travel’s ability to provide certain travel-related assistance services, for travel to, from or within the affected areas.

1. What is Travel Insurance?

Travel Insurance is a comprehensive insurance plan for domestic and overseas travel.  The major benefits provided are medical related benefits, personal accidents benefits, travel inconvenience & other travel-related benefits and 24-hours worldwide travel assistance.  Additionally, you can choose to purchase our optional rider benefit which extends your coverage to include your golfing equipments and your participation in special sports such as winter sports activities & scuba diving.

2. How much premium do I have to pay?

The premium varies depending on your choice of plan, destination and duration of cover selected.  Premiums are inclusive of Service Tax (ST) of 8% and is applicable for Domestic trips. 

3. How do I buy my Travel Insurance?

You can buy your Travel Insurance in any of the following method:

1.  Buy online  on our website; or 2.  Locate & contact an agent  to buy

4. Who is eligible to purchase?

(a) A Malaysian citizen, Malaysian permanent resident, or a holder of a valid work permit or employment pass (of which your place of employment must be in Malaysia during the policy period), dependent pass, student pass or long-term social visit pass not including travelling visa (that is issued by the relevant governmental authority in Malaysia), with full rights to enter into and return to Malaysia regardless of medical status; (b) You must be returning to your home (primary residence within Malaysia) at the end of your travel, or be intending to return home on completion of your travel; (c) Your travel pre-arrangements must be made and paid for in Malaysia prior to your trip and your trip must commence in Malaysia; and (d) You need to be a resident in Malaysia.

Any residents of Cuba, Iran, Syria, North Korea or the Crimea region will not allowed to purchase this policy.

5. What are some of the key terms and conditions that I should be aware of?

Importance of disclosure: 

i. You must disclose all material facts which will affect the risk profile such as your age and occupation. ii. Any fraud, deliberate misrepresentation of material facts or non-disclosure of information in connection with the application for this policy or when making a claim will invalidate the policy and any benefit due will be forfeited and any benefit that has previously been paid must be repaid to us in full.

6. When does my coverage for the overseas trip begin?

(a) Travel Cancellation Per Trip plan – 24 hours from the purchase of the policy, unless due to an accident in which cover commences from the policy purchase date. Annual plan – 24 hours from the purchase of the policy or after travel is booked whichever occurs later, unless due to an accident in which cover commences from the travel booking date. Cancellation of a scheduled trip due to death, permanent total disablement or hospitalization must occur within 60 days prior to your original scheduled departure and for other covered events, it must occur within 14 days prior to your original scheduled time of departure. 

(b) Travel Delay and Accidental Death & Disablement within 12 hours prior to departure from Malaysia. 

(c) All other benefits upon departure from Malaysia.

7. I am holding a one-way ticket. Can I purchase Travel Insurance?

Yes. For one-way travel, coverage terminates 5 days upon your departure from Malaysia.

8. Can I buy more than one Travel Insurance policy for the same trip?

If you are covered by more than one policy, we will cover you based on the policy which provides the highest benefit level.

9. Are activities such as winter sports & scuba diving covered?

Our Special Sports rider (optional) extends your coverage if you choose to participate in winter sporting activities & scuba diving (up to 30m), with the proper conduct, guidance and supervision by a licensed operator.*

*Does not involve engaging, practicing or participating in a semi-professional or in a professional capacity or where income or remuneration can be earned from in such sports.

10. Is the benefit payable by per incident or per trip?

Sum insured listed in the schedule of benefit is payable based on per incident.

11. Who do I contact for an emergency assistance or if I need to be admitted to a hospital while overseas?

Please call our 24 Hours, 7 Days worldwide travel assistance at +603-2772 5600.  You may reverse charge the call where this service is available. 

If you are unable to do so during an emergency, seek treatment first, and contact our worldwide travel assistance at +603-2772 5600 as soon as possible.

12. What is the definition of Immediate Family Members?

It refers to the legal spouse, child, parent and their siblings, parent-in-law, grandparent, grandparent-in-law, grandchild, sibling, sibling-in-law, niece or nephew of the insured.

13. I am travelling to multiple countries, do I need to buy a separate plan for each country? Which region should I select?

If you are traveling to multiple destinations within the same trip, you can be covered under one policy.

14. Can I cancel my policy and get a refund?

No refund of premium is allowed once the policy has been incepted.

15. How do I submit a claim and how long does it take to process a claim?

Please click  here  to view our 3 easy steps to make a claim.

It takes 30 working days to process a claim, upon receiving complete documentation and provided that there is no further information or investigation required.

16. What should I do if the airlines loses my baggages?

Lodge a report and seek compensation from the airline. You may file in your  claim  for the loss not compensated by the airline.

17. Will I be covered for an illness that I am already suffering from or have suffered in the past?

No. We do not cover any pre-existing condition occurring within 1 year prior to the policy effective date.

18. Can I continue my medical treatment in Malaysia for injuries sustained overseas?

Yes. If you suffer from a disability while travelling on an overseas trip and subsequently seek follow-up treatment in Malaysia, we will reimburse the medically necessary expenses incurred within 30 days upon arrival to Malaysia, subject to the medical expenses limit specified in the schedule of benefit (available for Standard and Deluxe plan only).

19. If I fall down overseas but do not seek treatment overseas, can I claim for medical expenses if I seek treatment after returning to Malaysia?

Yes, only if the treatment is sought within 24 hours from the date of arrival in Malaysia. We will reimburse the medically necessary expenses incurred within 30 days upon arrival to Malaysia, subject to the medical expenses limit specified in the schedule of benefit (available for Standard and Deluxe plan only).

20. Are dental expenses or pregnancy-related matters covered?

No, dental expenses and pregnancy-related matters are not covered, unless they are direct consequences of an accident.

21. I need to cut-short my trip because my father is hospitalized in Malaysia. What am I covered for?

You will be covered for additional cost of travel and accommodation up to an amount of RM 1,000 and/or unused and non-refundable expenses which is paid in advance and not recoverable from any relevant parties.

22. Can I file a claim if my baggage is stolen where it is left outside on a bench while I am checking in?

No, we do not cover for loss of baggage left unattended in any public place, as the policy excludes any failure of the insured to take reasonable efforts to safeguard his/her property.

23. Can I claim for travel cancellation if I cancel my trip because of political unrest at my planned destination?

Yes, travel cancellation covers any event below which occurs within 14 days prior to original scheduled departure which:

(a) leads to widespread violence;

(b) is not due to reasons for purposes of asserting sovereign rights and/or operating on behalf of a sovereign state;puts your life in danger; and

(c) following the advise and/or warning of the Malaysian government or the government of the destination country declaring unsafe conditions for travel through or by general mass media. 

However, this policy excludes strikes or events due to an act of war, assertion of sovereignty, insurrection, revolution and use of military power.

24. What should I do if I lose money whilst abroad?

Yes. You must make a report to the local police within 24 hours after the incident. Please click  here  to view our 3 easy steps to make a claim.

25. Will I be covered if my belongings are pick-pocketed while traveling overseas?

26. does travel insurance cover for natural disasters.

Yes. Natural disasters including but not limited to volcanic eruption, flood, earthquake, tsunami, hurricane or wildfire are covered events under our policy.

27. If I transit in Australia (Cluster 3) during my trip to New Zealand (Cluster 2) but I am not stopping over in Australia, what region should I buy?

If you transit in Australia with no stop over, you may purchase a Cluster 2 plan.

If you transit in Australia with a minimum stop over of 1 night because there is no connecting flight, you may purchase a Cluster 3 plan.

28. Can a child purchase an individual policy and what is the premium and benefits?

A child (aged between 30 days and above and up to 18 years) can purchase an individual policy but the policy must be issued under a parent or legal guardian’s name, i.e. on the life of (OTLO) the child’s name.

For example:

“Jack Tan OTLO Tan Mei Mei”.

The payable premium for a child is the same as for an adult.

Under the Family plan, a child is entitled to 25% of the Accidental Death and Permanent Disablement benefit and all other benefits are payable at 100%.

29. Can I purchase travel insurance after I depart and still be covered?

No. You must purchase the policy prior to your scheduled departure.

30. Can I extend my policy period after the commencement of my trip?

Coverage shall be extended at our sole discretion for up to 30 days from the expiry of the period of insurance without payment of any additional premium if you are hospitalized and/or quarantined overseas as recommended by a doctor or as a result of any circumstances beyond your control which is deemed reasonable by us prohibiting your return to Malaysia prior to the insurance expiry.

31. What is Car Rental Excess Charges benefit?

32. what is golf insurance rider and does the cover extend worldwide.

It covers you for any loss or damage to your golfing equipment and hole-in-one expenses.

Cover is worldwide except for United States of America and/or Canada and to countries where such payment would violate any prohibition or regulation or sanction that has been imposed by the Malaysian Government, the American Government and/or the United Nations.

Malaysia Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for malaysia.

In the beautiful country of Malaysia, Batu Caves is a sight to behold with its many temples and shrines, not to mention the gigantic statue of the Hindu God. Along with the Petronas Twin Towers and other tourist attractions, travelers are sure to enjoy a trip to breathtaking Malaysia. As you plan your incredible itinerary, it is important to remember travel insurance as it can help aid and support you on your travels. Let’s dive in!

• What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Malaysia? 

How Does Travel Insurance for Malaysia Work?

• Do I need Travel Insurance for Malaysia? 
• How much does Travel Insurance cost for Malaysia? 

Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan

• What types of medical coverage does AXA Travel Protection plans offer?

Are There Any COVID-19 Restrictions for Travelers to Malaysia?

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions , what should your travel insurance cover for a trip to malaysia.

At a minimum, your travel insurance should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage. AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind.

• Medical Coverage   – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions  – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation   – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
• Coverage for Personal Belongings  – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason  – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for Malaysia.

Malaysia has a reputation for being a fairly safe place to visit. However, it is important to learn which areas to avoid and practice safe traveling habits to prevent issues like pickpocketing and theft even in the safest areas. If a thief steals luggage from the baggage area, a travel insurance plan can help replace your bags and the contents inside them. Here is how travelers can benefit from an AXA Travel Protection Plan:

Baggage Benefits: 

• Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings. 

Medical Benefits: 

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
• Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms. 

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

• Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
• COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
• Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations. 

Post-Departure Travel Benefits

• Trip Interruption: In case of an unexpected event, you could be eligible for reimbursement for the unused portion of your trip.
• Missed Connection: If you miss a connecting flight due to delays or cancellations, this coverage may help with expenses like rebooking fees and accommodations.

Additional Optional Travel Benefits 

• Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
• Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
• Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
• Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures. 

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Malaysia?

While the Malaysian government does not require travelers to purchase travel insurance , it offers valuable protection in an unfamiliar area where you may not speak the language or be able to find helpful resources.

You can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that your travel insurance plan backs you up if your travel plans go awry. Why? There are several reasons:

Trip Cancellation: You may not be able to control circumstances such as bad weather, a personal emergency, or an illness that prevents you from traveling. Travel insurance may reimburse you for 100% of the cost of your trip for eligible expenses.

Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without your essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.

Trip Interruption: Travel insurance may reimburse you for unexpected expenses due to an unexpected change of plans.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost for Malaysia?

In general, travel insurance costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans: 

• Total Trip cost:  The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc. 
• Age:  Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals. 

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to Malaysia will be offered three tiers of insurance:  Silver,   Gold  and  Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs. 

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the  Silver Plan ,  Gold Plan , and  Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that United Kingdom hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses.

The Platinum Plan is a good choice for Malaysian travelers who want the benefit of extra coverage. For example, " Cancel for Any Reason " is an optional coverage that offers greater flexibility for those who have concerns have concerns about an unexpected cancellation. The Collision Damage Waiver coverage is also available as an option. This coverage pays for damage to a rental car being used during your Malaysia trip.

Golf enthusiasts may be disappointed if their golf game gets rained out or you cannot play for some other reason at one of Malaysia’s fine golf courses or country clubs. Nonetheless, coverage is available on the Platinum Plan for Lost Golf Rounds to reimburse your fees.

What Types of Medical Coverage Do AXA Travel Protection Plans Offer?

AXA covers three types of medical expenses:

• Emergency medical
• Emergency evacuation & repatriation
• Non-medical emergency evacuation & repatriation

Emergency medical: Can cover illnesses such as dengue fever, tuberculosis, or food poisoning. It may also cover injuries such as a broken appendage, injury due to a fall or other injury. Emergency evacuation and repatriation: Can cover your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness. Non-medical emergency evacuation and repatriation: Can cover evacuation or repatriation expenses due to a non-medical event such as an earthquake, typhoon or volcanic eruption.

The Malaysian government has lifted all COVID-19 restrictions for travelers entering the country. They recommend travelers take normal precautions.

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip.  

Our Gold and Platinum  plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.  The Platinum plan, in particular, is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons, 

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition that's been hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plans with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We're here to ensure you travel easily, no matter your health situation. 

1.Can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight?

You can buy travel insurance even after your flight is booked.

2.When should I buy Travel Insurance to Malaysia?

It is advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.) AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip. Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14 days of making your initial trip deposit.

3.Do Americans need travel insurance in Malaysia?

No, travel insurance is not currently required to visit Malaysia, although you may find it valuable.

4.What is needed to visit Malaysia from the USA?

If you are visiting Malaysia from the USA, all you need is a passport that is valid for at least six months. The government also requires you to have at least one full page in your passport that is blank.

5.What happens if a tourist gets sick in Malaysia?

If you become sick in Malaysia, travelers with AXA Travel protection can contact the AXA Assistance hotline 855-327-1442 . Contact information is typically provided within the insurance documentation. Please ensure to read through your policy details and information.

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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Top Travel Insurances for Malaysia You Should Know in 2024

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Malaysia is a culturally diverse country that's home to lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and unique Malay heritage and cuisine. Although travelling to Malaysia can be an accessible holiday destination for many people, and although healthcare costs in the country aren't outrageously expensive, it's still a very good idea to arrive there with travel insurance anway, as you'll want the highest-quality healthcare you can find.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to Malaysia and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young travellers, adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats.

Malaysia Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for Malaysia:

Best Travel Insurances for Malaysia

• 01. Should I get travel insurance for Malaysia? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance to Malaysia scroll down

Heading to Malaysia soon? Don't forget to check the following list before you travel:

• 💳 Eager to dodge high FX fees? See our picks for the best travel cards in 2024.
• 🛂 Need a visa? Let iVisa take care of it for you.
• ✈ Looking for flights? Compare on Skyscanner !
• 💬 Want to learn the local language? Babbel and italki are two excellent apps to think about.
• 💻 Want a VPN? ExpressVPN is the market leader for anonymous and secure browsing.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Malaysia?

No, there's currently no legal requirement to take out travel insurance for travel to or through Malaysia.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to Malaysia or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for Malaysia:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for travellers going abroad to Malaysia. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to Malaysia, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel disruptions. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for Malaysia:

• Policy names: Varies
• Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another very good travel insurance option, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for younger travellers or digital nomads because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travellers

How Do They Compare?

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to Malaysia? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 4/1/2024

FAQ About Travel Insurance to Malaysia

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

No, you'll not be required to take out travel insurance for Malaysia. However, we strongly encourage you to do so anyway, because the cost of healthcare in Malaysia can be high, and taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself if you need medical attention during your stay.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to travellers worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the traveller, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent travellers.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

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Frequently Asked Question

• Single or Annual Trip?
• Domestic or Overseas Trip?
• Individual or Family Trip?
• Takaful or Conventional ?
• Full or Common Coverage?
• Covid-19 coverage (complications, quarantine costs)
• Medical expenses
• Accidental death and disablement
• Trip cancellation/travel disruptions
• Emergency evacuation
• Natural disasters

Travel Insurance and Takaful

One of the best online travel insurance and takaful in malaysia., tripcare 360 insurance.

Get coverage for travel delays, loss of baggage, medical emergencies and other travel inconveniences.

• 25% rebate when you apply online
• Cashless medical care
• Coverage for loss of valuables and travel delays
• Add-on options for adventurous activities
• New COVID-19 coverage for your overseas travels

TripCare 360 Takaful

Get coverage (with Shariah-compliant plan) for travel delays, loss of baggage, medical emergencies and other travel inconveniences.

• Cash back when you make no claims for the annual plan

Travel Ezy Insurance

Get compensated for domestic flight delays

• Get paid RM60 when your flight is delayed by 30 minutes or more

i-Travel Ezy Takaful

Get compensated (with Shariah-compliant plan) for domestic flight delays.

What our customers say about us

The only people whose opinions we value and learn from are our customers.

 I submitted a claim under my travel insurance policy with documents in the morning and to my absolute amazement the claim was paid in the afternoon. In all my years in dealing with insurance companies I have never encountered such efficiency in dealing with claims and I thank the staff of Etiqa involved in processing my claim. Etiqa should be the insurance of choice for everyone 

 It was truly a wonderful experience with the Etiqa customer service at Dataran Maybank. Recently, I went to purchase a travel insurance for my family. The staff at the Customer Service counter was really helpful and friendly. It took me less than 10 mins to get it done. Thumbs up Etiqa! 

 It was such an unpleasant experience when I lost my purse due to theft in Halstatt, Austria last December. However, travel insurance from Etiqa definitely came to the rescue. Upon submission the report to Customer Experience Department of Dataran Maybank, they processed the claim promptly and I received the insured amount ie rm1500 within a few days. What an excellent experience! I subscribed to the same plan for my recent Edinburgh getaway and will definitely subscribe again for my next escapade. 

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All trip must commence from Malaysia except your destination is domestic.

Tips : If husband & wife only, take the individual cover.

Tips : No need give notification to insurance company, you may travel anytime when you want, but duration of every trip shall not exceed 90 days.

Tips : Travel with your friends? Choose the number of adults to the number of person, so that you can purchase for them in a single shot.

Checked If Needed

Choose from 2 levels of cover to suit your pocket and your needs: Standard plan & Super plan

What Customers Say

Trip Cancellation Due To Dengue Fever -- "Luckily my wife asked me to buy travel insurance from Citylife! "

Trip cancellation due to injury -- "citylife helps me in getting my money back".

Trip cancellation due to riot? CityLife will reimburse all your loss.

Citylife Travel PA reimburse RM3,800 for Medical Expenses and Hospital Confinement Benefit.

Download the coverge details below to learn more.

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In addition to the terms stated in Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Berhad's Important Legal Notices , Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Berhad shall have no responsibility or liability in connection with the content of or the consequences of accessing the 3rd Party Website, including any virus arising from or system failure associated with the 3rd Party Website.

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Travel Care

When you travel, you would want to have a worry-free holiday. Travel Care is a travel insurance that will protect you and your family during your holidays, overseas or domestic.

24/7 Medical Assistance

Travel Inconvenience covered

Medical Coverage

Wide range of plans

Key features.

Overseas & Domestic Coverage

*In respect of Domestic Coverage, benefits payable are due to accidental causes only

• Death and Permanent Disablement due to Accident
• Funeral Expenses
• *Medical Expenses
• Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation
• Mortal Remains Repatriation
• *Follow up Treatment
• *Hospital Income
• *Compassionate Visitation
• Despatch of Medication
• Luggage Delay
• Travel Delay
• Terrorism Coverage

Benefits Available Under Overseas Coverage Only

• Deposit or Trip Cancellation
• Travel Curtailment
• Personal Luggage or Personal Effects
• Travel Documents
• Missed Departure
• Missed Travel Connection
• Travel Overbooked
• Additional Costs of Rental Car/Campervan Return
• Personal Liability
• Personal Money
• Credit Card/Charge Card Indemnity
• Loss of Deposit or Loss of Full Payment due to Insolvency of Airlines/ Travel Agency

Rental Car Excess Cover

The information provided on this page is not a contract of insurance. The descriptions of cover are a brief summary for quick and easy reference. The precise terms and conditions that apply are in the policy document. Allianz General Insurance, being the underwriter of Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad, is fully responsible for the products and benefits offered by them, as well as any representation made. Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Berhad is a distributor only. The Bank accepts no responsibility or liability for the plan or the products and services offered by Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad.

Travel Care Insurance premium table

Overseas only

Domestic only

Overseas & Domestic (both plans)

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We offer comprehensive protection for you, your family and even for your home when you travel aboard, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey.

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Key Benefits

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Travel smart with thorough protection

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Please contact our Great Eastern General Insurance agent or Customer Service Careline at 1300-1300 88

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Travel Insurance

Imagine worry-free travels

With full protection from our travel insurance, worry-free travel is no longer a dream. Together with our insurance partner, we have got you covered against any problems you may encounter during your trip, from delays, cancellations, loss of items, to accidents.

Flight Insurance

Being away from home can invoke a certain kind of worry. That is why Traveloka presents these meticulously designed insurance plans that suit all your needs, relieving you from any unwelcome disruption throughout your trip. We want to ensure that you will be protected, from the day of your departure until the day of your return.

Plans & Benefits

Together with Chubb Insurance Malaysia Berhad (9827-A), we bring you Chubb Travel Protection. Designed to provide you with maximum protection during your trip, Chubb offers two types of plans based on your flight route.

• Domestic Plan Customized for all flights flying within Malaysia
• International Plan Customized for all international flights departing from Malaysia ( Zone 1 , Zone 2 , Zone 3 ).

Please click here for country list.

Personal Accident, Medical Expenses, Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation of Mortal Remains benefits for Dependent Children and Insured Persons aged 75 & above will be 25% of the respective benefit amounts stated.

For Infants, it will be 10% of the respective benefit amount stated.

The complete insurance terms and conditions are detailed in Chubb Travel Protection Policy Wordings .

What does Chubb Travel Protection cover?

Find your insurance coverage details below.

Please note that the maximum amount of coverage may vary depending on the Insurance Plan suited for your travel route.

• Baggage & Personal Items Protection (or Loss Or Damage Of Baggage And Personal Effects in Policy Wordings ) covers your hand-carried or check-in personal goods during the journey.
• Wheelchair(s), baby/children stroller(s) or sports equipment(s), however, are not included. For travel documents, you may claim the loss under Loss of Travel Documents . Please refer to Policy Wordings for more details.
• Any loss or damage of baggage must be reported to the police or relevant authority evidencing such loss or damage within twenty-four (24) hours after the incident. You are required to attach the report with your claim submission.
• Travel documents include passport, visas, travel tickets, identity card and driving license.
• Any loss of travel documents must be reported to the police or relevant authority evidencing such loss within twenty-four (24) hours after the incident. You are required to attach the report with your claim submission.
• You are not allowed to claim under both Baggage & Personal Items Protection and Loss of Travel Documents for the same travel document.
• Valid if, during your trip, you sustain a bodily injury due to an unforeseen, or a sudden and fortuitous event, which results in death and/or permanent disability within 365 days after the accident date.
• Indemnity will be paid for one loss only.
• Payment is not including any loss caused by or resulting from sickness.

For more details on the extent of the coverage, you can read the insurance policy here

• Valid when your check-in baggage on the scheduled flight is not delivered to you within six (6) hours of your arrival at the destination.
• This benefit applies to maximum one delay per journey.

For more details on the extent of the coverage, you can read the insurance policy here .

• Valid when your scheduled flight is delayed for at least six (6) consecutive hours due to civil commotion or industrial action, adverse weather conditions or mechanical breakdown.
• The delay must be verified in writing by the airline or their handling agent, as well as the number of hours delayed and the reason for the delay.
• Valid when you are forced to cancel a part or the whole of your planned trip due to specified causes.
• You are suffering from a terminal condition, becoming ill or sustaining a bodily injury, so you are not allowed to travel.
• You or your family member(s) is/are sick or has/have passed away, sustain(s) a bodily injury, or need(s) to receive an inpatient treatment at a hospital.
• Cancellation of scheduled public transportation services because of civil commotion or riot.
• Your house becomes uninhabitable due to fire, storm, or flood, so you cannot travel.
• You cannot commence or continue your journey due to natural disaster.
• Coverage only applies to actual scheduled flight cost which have not been or will not be used, but which become forfeit or payable under contract.

Besides the above mentioned, please see more information on the other benefits available to you here .

• Terms & Conditions

The terms and conditions of Chubb Travel Protection are as follows:

• Only valid for flights originating from Malaysia.
• Applicable for travelers at least 18 years of age on the Effective Date. An Insured Person may also include a Dependent Child(ren) or an Infant if specifically named in the Certificate of Insurance.
• Insurance is non-refundable.
• Covers the Insured Person during the entire trip.
• Valid for the first forty-five (45) consecutive days of any Journey, unless otherwise mentioned.

How to Claim

Insurance claim can be submitted via walk-in, as well as through email and posted mail. To submit your insurance claim, please follow these steps.

Claim Submission via Walk-in

• Walk in to Chubb office at Wisma Chubb, 38 Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia . The office’s operating hours are 8:30am to 5:15pm from Monday to Friday. Your claim must be submitted within 31 days from the date of incident.
• Bring along all the required supporting documents. Missing out documents will result in the need for clarification and thus will delay the assessment of your claim.

Claim Submission via Email or Posted Mail

• Download a copy of Chubb Travel Protection claim form here . Your claim must be submitted within 31 days from the date of incident.
• Complete the relevant sections and questions of the claim form. Missing out details will result in the need for clarification and thus will delay the assessment of your claim.
• Ensure that you collate and attach all the required supporting documents to your claim form. Missing documents usually result in the need for clarification and thus will delay the assessment of your claim.
• Your claim form and supporting documents may be submitted by email at [email protected] or via post to Chubb offices.
• Once the claim has been submitted, you will receive a confirmation of your claim number within seven (7) working days after Chubb has received your documents.
• Chubb will process your claim within 14 working days once the required documents are complete. You will receive your payment notification or decline letter by email.

Required Documents for Claim Submission

Frequently asked questions.

Find the answers to your questions about Travel Protection here!

Travel Protection is a product from Chubb Insurance Malaysia Berhad (9827-A) that is specially designed for Traveloka customers.

• Travel Protection is currently available for flights purchased on Traveloka Malaysia website.
• Travel Protection only covers flights originating from Malaysia.

It will depend on the flight you purchase. The exact price of the insurance can be seen in the Booking Form.

Please refer to Plans & Benefits .

We’re sorry, but adding insurance to a completed booking is not possible.

Yes. Purchase of insurance will only be stated in your receipt of payment. You will receive the details of your purchased policy in a separate email from Chubb besides the e-ticket issued by Traveloka.

Travel Protection is only available for domestic trips that are no longer than 30 days; or international trips that are no longer than 45 days between departure date and return date.

To continue benefiting from the purchased Chubb insurance after rescheduling your flight, please contact Chubb at +603 2058 3196 or email to [email protected] to update your policy (subject to terms and conditions).

We’re sorry, but Travel Protection cannot be canceled or refunded once payment is made.

Please refer to How to Claim .

Claims must be submitted within 31 days after the date of occurrence.

Claims will be processed within 14 days after the complete documents have been received.

Please do not hesitate to contact Chubb Malaysia via: Wisma Chubb, 38, Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Phone: +603 2058 3196, or 1800 88 2846 Email: [email protected] (Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5:15pm)

For immediate help, please contact Chubb Assistance at +603 7628 3703 (available 24-hour).

Contact Chubb Malaysia

If you have any inquiries, do not hesitate to contact Chubb Malaysia.

Chubb Assistance | Emergency Hotline

(60)3 7628 3703

Chubb Insurance Malaysia Berhad (9827-A) Wisma Chubb 38 Jalan Sultan Ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Phone: 1 800 88 2846 (within Malaysia) or +603 2058 3000 (outside Malaysia) Email: [email protected] Monday to Friday: 8:30 AM to 5:15 PM

Book Your Flight

Choose your destination and travel date, then book a flight.

Add on Travel Protection

Fill in booking details, then scroll down and tick on the Travel Protection check box.

Proceed with Your Booking Payment

Total price includes your travel insurance.

Receive Insurance Policy

Insurance policy will be sent separately to your email.

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Travel Care

Go on a totally fuss-free, carefree holiday with travel care.

Not all who wander are lost, but your luggage certainly could go missing. That's just one of the unexpected events that could put a dampener on your travel plans - there might also be flight delays, accidents or lost passports to contend with.

Travel Care provides a comprehensive suite of coverage and Allianz's Authorised Representative's emergency hotline (+603-76283919 or +603-79653919) is available 24 hours a day to support you through any emergency you might face, so you and your loved ones can have a stress-free trip filled with beautiful memories.

Stand to receive a Touch 'n Go eWallet Reload PIN worth up to RM50

Be one of the first 200 customers to purchase travel care with the promo code 'hsbc23' and get a touch ‘n go ewallet reload pin worth up to rm50. promotion period 27 november 2023 - 31 july 2024., ¹allianz travel care ("this plan") is underwritten by allianz general insurance company (malaysia) berhad (company no. 200601015674 (735426-v)) ("allianz general") and hsbc bank malaysia berhad ("hsbc malaysia") is the intermediary in distributing this plan. travel care customer campaign promotion  terms & conditions  apply..

• Overseas and domestic travel coverage This includes coverage for luggage and travel delays, and for overseas travel, the coverage also includes loss or damage to your travel documents, personal luggage and valuables, and more
• Accidental death and permanent disability coverage
• Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation programme
• Reimbursement of medical expenses We'll reimburse the necessary and reasonable medical, surgical or hospital charges, and emergency dental treatment fees incurred as a result of accidental bodily injuries, illness or death during your trip
• Option to purchase rider plans to extend your coverage when you participate in certain sports or events during your travels

What your coverage includes

What you need to know, are you eligible.

You're eligible for a Travel Care plan if you belong to one of the following categories:

• Malaysian citizen or permanent resident
• valid work permit or student pass holder
• legally employed in Malaysia

You'll also be able to get coverage for your spouse and child if they legally reside in Malaysia.

Good to know

Emergency contact information .

If there's an emergency when you're travelling, you can call the Allianz 24-hour emergency hotline on +60 3 7628 3919. Toll fees may apply.

Cover for COVID-19 

Travel Care covers medical expenses for COVID-19 treatment, subject to policy terms and conditions. Your diagnosis must be certified by a medical practitioner, and you'll also need to provide a supporting lab report or medical report that states your diagnosis. 

Cover for high-altitude mountaineering 

You can get cover for high altitude mountaineering by contacting Allianz via email on  [email protected] , or by calling 1300 22 5542.

What options for Travel Care plans are available?

The following plans are available:

• Adult Plan/Adult Annual Plan: if you're aged 18-70 years old
• Child Plan/Child Annual Plan: if you're aged 30 days-17 years old
• Senior Citizen Plan: if you're aged 71-80 years old
• Family Plan: if the policyholder is aged 18-70 years old, the policyholder's 1 selected legal spouse is aged 18-70 years old and the policyholder's child/children is/are aged 30 days-24 years old
• Under family plan, the payment per individual will be based on the limit under an adult plan and/or child plan, as the case may be subject to the maximum limit as stated in the Schedule of Benefits in the brochure and policy document.
• Maximum period of coverage per journey/trip is 200 days for one way or return trip.
• Maximum period of coverage per journey/trip is 90 days for annual policy.
• Maximum period of coverage per journey/trip for High Altitude Mountaineering activities is 30 days.
• Each trip must begin and end in Malaysia except for one way trip.
• Maximum period of coverage per journey/trip is 30 days for one way/return trip or annual policy.
• Premium is subject to Service Tax.
• Customer may opt for Automatic Renewal (for annual policy only). This policy is deemed to be automatically renewed and the applicable premium will be charged upon expiry unless otherwise instructed.

For other key terms and conditions, please refer to the Product Disclosure Sheet in the link below.

Ready to apply for Travel Care?

Get a quote via mobile banking or online banking.

If you have an HSBC debit or credit card, you can apply via our mobile banking app or through online banking. Go to the homepage, select 'Products and services', and choose 'Travel Care'. We'll help you apply by filling in information from your records.

Get a quote without logging on

If you have an HSBC debit or credit card, you can also get a quote without logging on to mobile banking.

Scan the QR code to get the app

Download the HSBC Malaysia Mobile Banking app on your iOS or Android device.

• Learn more about mobile banking  

Need help? Check out our  step by step mobile guide .

Your insurance details in your hand

You can access your insurance policy details instantly via mobile banking. Simply go to 'Your insurance overview' in the HSBC Malaysia Mobile Banking app.

Important Information

• For after-sales service, you can contact Allianz by [email protected] or on 1300 22 5542 .
• You may find out more about our coverage by visiting your nearest Allianz branch.

The information provided on this page is not a contract of insurance. The descriptions of cover are a brief summary for quick and easy reference. The precise terms and conditions that apply are in the policy document. Allianz Travel Care ("this Plan") is underwritten by Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad (Company No. 200601015674 (735426-V)) ("Allianz General") and HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad ("HSBC Malaysia") is the intermediary in distributing this Plan. This Plan is exclusively for HSBC Malaysia Credit and Debit Cardholders only. Please read and understand the Product Disclosure Sheet (PDS), Brochure and Policy Wording before signing up.

The benefits payable from this insurance product are protected by Perbadanan Insurans Deposit Malaysia (PIDM) up to certain limits. Please refer to PIDM's TIPS Brochure, the PIDM website , or contact Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad to get more information about the Takaful and Insurance Benefits Protection System(TIPS).

• Product Disclosure Sheet (PDF) Product Disclosure Sheet (PDF) Download
• Brochure (PDF) Brochure (PDF) Download
• Policy Wording (Domestic) (PDF) Policy Wording (Domestic) (PDF) Download
• Policy Wording (Overseas) (PDF) Policy Wording (Overseas) (PDF) Download
• Allianz General Insurance Company - Privacy Notice (PDF) Allianz General Insurance Company - Privacy Notice (PDF) Download

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The Guide to Single Trip Travel Insurance

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Table of Contents

How single trip travel insurance works

How to choose between travel insurance companies, best plans for single trip travel insurance, other tips for travel insurance for a single trip, travel cards that come with complimentary travel insurance, single travel insurance for a trip recapped.

There are many types of travel insurance, including plans that’ll reimburse you for emergency medical expenses or unexpected travel delays. Along with coverage types, there are also different durations of travel insurance.

Single trip travel insurance will cover you during one vacation, while multitrip or annual travel insurance can last for multiple outings. Let’s take a look at single trip travel insurance, what kind of coverage you can expect and how to choose a plan that works for you.

Purchasing a travel insurance plan is fairly simple, as is making a claim. It generally goes like this:

You gather a few quotes from travel insurance companies.

You pick a plan that suits your needs and customize it to your liking.

You purchase your plan and include a date for it to start.

You go on your trip.

If something happens (such as a flight delay), keep the proof.

You make a claim with your travel insurance company.

The travel insurance company reimburses you. 

There are a few variations in how this can work (for instance, some travel insurance plans can pay a medical provider directly), but for the most part, this is how the process will go. This is the case whether you have one-trip travel insurance or multitrip travel insurance.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

There are several travel insurance companies out there, which can make choosing a plan difficult.

NerdWallet analysis found that some travel insurance providers rise above the rest in terms of breadth and depth of coverage, cost, customizability, and overall customer satisfaction. Jump to see our findings on the bets plans for single trip travel insurance.

However, before choosing a company and purchasing a plan, consider these questions:

How much am I willing to pay?

Do I want trip protection, emergency medical coverage or both?

Do I already have coverage somewhere?

How much customizability does my plan need?

Do I need coverage for preexisting conditions?

Will I be doing any sort of adventure activities?

Once you’ve answered these questions, do your due diligence and get quotes from multiple sources. Different providers will offer differing levels of coverage at varying prices, so it’s in your best interest to generate as many quotes as possible and read the fine print.

To make it simple, travel insurance aggregators such as Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) will provide you with multiple quotes at a time.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

We considered a wide variety of factors when it comes to selecting the best insurance for your trip. These factors include cost, customizability, coverage maximums, whether preexisting conditions are included and the type of coverage the policy offers.

World Nomads

World Nomads is great for active travelers because of its standard coverage of adventure activities. With just two plans from which to choose, it’s also simple to decide which one you’d like.

Covers 200-plus activities as standard. 

Simple plan options.

Emergency medical coverage included.

Only two choices for policies.

Riskier activities are covered only by the more expensive Explorer plan. 

Fixed-rate reimbursement for trip protection.

» Learn more: Read our full review of World Nomads

With eight plans on offer, Tin Leg has a policy for every type of traveler. Along with standard trip protections, Tin Leg also offers Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) add-ons.

Plenty of plans from which to choose. 

Preexisting conditions included in most plans. 

Primary and secondary medical coverage options. 

Cheapest plan doesn’t cover preexisting medical conditions.

Rental car coverage add-on available only on Luxury plan. 

» Learn more: Is Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance worth it?

Seven Corners

Seven Corners is an excellent option for those who really want to customize their plans. Whether you’re looking for medical-only insurance or a more comprehensive policy, Seven Corners has options available.

Preexisting condition coverage available.

Medical-only plans on offer.

Covers missed tours and cruise connections. 

Inexpensive plan offers secondary medical insurance.

Event ticket registration coverage only for expensive plan. 

» Learn more: Is Seven Corners coverage worth the cost?

Our last company on the list is unique in that it covers those who use travel rewards, like purchasing flights or hotels with points and miles . This is fairly uncommon among travel insurance providers and can be really helpful when things go awry during award travel.

Plan options include accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) travel life insurance. 

Covers up to $300 in frequent traveler reward costs. 

Worldwide travel assistance included on every policy.

Cancel For Any Reason insurance available only on most expensive plan. 

Just $35,000 in emergency medical for basic plan (low compared to similar policies at other companies).

» Learn more: Our full TravelSafe review

If you’re interested in getting travel insurance, do yourself a favor and consider these tips before making any purchases:

Consult your medical insurance provider to see whether it offers coverage out of country .

Consider an annual plan to save money if you make multiple trips per year.

Check your credit card for complimentary travel insurance . Many offer this benefit, and if its limits are satisfactory, you can book your travels with it and avoid buying a separate policy out-of-pocket altogether. More on this in the next section.

If you're looking to get coverage for a one-off trip, among your best options is to simply pay for your travel with a card that includes travel insurance as a benefit.

Most travel cards will include coverage for things like trip interruption , trip delays and lost luggage .

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

If you’re in the market for single trip travel insurance, there are plenty of options available to you. Before purchasing a plan, grab quotes from multiple companies because the types of coverage and costs are going to vary.

Beyond this, be sure to check whether your credit card offers complimentary travel insurance and reach out to your medical insurance provider to see what type of coverage it offers overseas.

American Express insurance disclosures

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Insurance Benefit: Baggage Insurance Plan

Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g., plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

85,000 Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 27, 2023

Backpackers have been traveling through Southeast Asia since the late 1960s and early 1970s, leaving a well-worn trail around the region.

Starting in beautiful Thailand, the trail makes its way to up-and-coming Laos, through Vietnam, and to the temples of Angkor Wat. It then winds back into Thailand, where people head south to party in the Thai islands before moving down to Malaysia and Singapore.

There are a few variations to the trail, but this is what it mostly covers.

I’ve been visiting this region since 2004 and spent years living in Thailand . I love backpacking Southeast Asia and have written extensively about it as I know it like the back of my hand.

It’s an especially great region for new travelers because it’s easy to travel around, it’s safe, and there are lots of other travelers you can meet. But it’s also perfect for veteran travelers too as there are tons of off-the-beaten-path destinations that the standard backpacker trail doesn’t cover.

In short, Southeast Asia has something for every traveler — and every budget.

This Southeast Asia travel guide will help you travel the region like a pro, ensuring you save money and make the most of your time in this fun, gorgeous, and lively corner of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Southeast Asia

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in southeast asia.

1. Admire Angkor Wat

One of the greatest human creations in history, the Angkor Wat temple complex is best explored over the course of a few days. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by the Khmer Empire and absolutely enormous. Temples to visit include Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple which has 216 gigantic stone face carvings, and Ta Prohm. I spent three days here and that simply wasn’t enough. A one-day pass is $37 USD, while a 1-week pass is $72 USD. If you’re here for multiple days, be sure to hire a driver and see some of the more out of the way ruins away from the main temple complex (and the crowds).

2. Explore Bangkok

Bangkok is the hub of travel activity in Southeast Asia. You can get anywhere you want from here. Though I hated it at first, the more I’ve spent time here the more I love it. Bangkok is like an onion whose many layers need to be peeled back. Some things not to miss include the spectacular Bangkok Grand Palace, Wat Pho, Chatuchak Market and Asiatique, and a canal trip on the Chao Phraya River. This is a city for foodies and wild nightlife.

3. Relax on some tropical islands

No visit to Southeast Asia would be complete without a visit to at least one of the thousands of tropical islands in the region. My top five include the Perhentian Islands (Malaysia), Rabbit Island (Cambodia), Ko Lanta (Thailand), and Boracay (Philippines). Lombok Island (Indonesia) has a chill vibe with unspoiled, perfect “desert island” beaches. There’s so many islands to visit. Be sure to add at least one to your trip. The country guides will have more information for you.

4. See Ha Long Bay

Sailing trips to this island-filled bay with stunning emerald waters, limestone formations, and marine life give you an appreciation for the natural beauty in Vietnam. Tours from Hanoi start at around $110 USD for two-day trips and increase from there. I love the colorful grottoes, hanging stalactites, and stalagmites of Surprise Cave (Sung Sot), Fairy Cave (Tien Ong), and Heaven Palace (Thien Cung). Make sure you go with a reputable company though as some of the cheaper boats are less than ideal. If you’d rather just visit for one day, day trips from Hanoi cost $55 USD.

5. Wander Kuala Lumpur

Other things to see and do in southeast asia, 1. go jungle trekking.

This region of the world is covered in amazing jungles with diverse wildlife, plentiful camping opportunities, and cool waterfalls. The best jungle treks are found in northern Thailand, Western Laos, and Malaysian Borneo (the latter are also the hardest and most intense). Some of my favorites include Danum Valley (Borneo) for its incredible wildlife; Ratanakiri (Cambodia) for its pristine wilderness and thousand-year-old trees; and Pu Luong Nature Reserve (Vietnam). Costs vary but jungle trekking generally costs $30-50 USD per day.

2. Attend the Full Moon Party

The biggest one-night party in the world welcomes up to 30,000 people with a party that stretches until dawn. Cover yourself in glow paint, grab a bucket of booze, and dance the night away with new friends on the island of Ko Phangan in Thailand. As the name would suggest, the party is on the night of the full moon. If you miss it, there’s always the half-moon party, quarter-moon party, and black-moon party. Really, every night is a party on Ko Phangan . Just avoid the flaming jump rope that occurs — I’ve seen people get burned badly!

3. Learn to dive

There are many great dive sites around the region for those interested in underwater exploration. You can learn to dive here at a fraction of what it would cost back home too. Some of the best places are Ko Tao (Thailand), Sipadan (Malaysia), as well as Gili Islands (Indonesia) and Coron, Palawan (The Philippines). A typical diving course is completed in three days. A PADI course typically runs $275 USD in Thailand, including three nights’ accommodation, though at smaller schools you can often negotiate down to $250 USD. Day trips for certified divers start at $165 USD. For information on Ko Tao, check out this blog post .

4. Eat street food in Singapore

Singapore is a foodie’s heaven. Try the hawker stalls of Singapore as well as Little India and Chinatown for some of the best and cheapest food in Asia. If you’re looking for a nice place to sit down and eat, eat at Singapore’s famed restaurants during lunch when restaurants offer discounts, making them a great deal. You’ll also find the most affordable Michelin-starred restaurants here (Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice and Hawker Chan), offering world-class meals for just a couple of bucks!

5. Overload on temples

You can’t turn a corner without seeing a Buddhist temple in this part of the world. You’ll get temple overload at some point but visit as many as you can as each is unique to the country and region of the temple. There are so many places with high concentrations of ornate and beautiful temples. Check out Chiang Mai’s Wat Doi Suthep Temple and hike up the 300 steps to the golden Chedi that’s 600 years old!; Bagan’s Shwesandaw Pagoda from the 11th century with its stunning golden dome; Angkor Wat’s Ta Prohm is covered in iconic vines and enveloped in ancient jungle roots; Hue’s colorful Thien Mu Pagoda is perched atop a lush green embankment; Hoi An’s Quan Cong Temple with incredible Chinese architecture with hand-carved beauty and skill, and Luang Prabang’s Vat Xieng Thong with its golden, canopied roof. Most are free to enter, however, dress codes are enforced (you need to have your shoulders and legs covered).

6. Dive Sipadan

Located off Malaysian Borneo, Sipadan is one of the best dive sites in the world. If you have your dive certificate, make sure you venture out here. I absolutely love this area because it’s teeming with live turtles, diverse cave systems, sharks, dolphins, colorful coral, bright fish, and everything in between. Not a lot of people make it to this part of Malaysia, but it’s worth it to go the extra mile and make your way off the tourist trail a bit. Don’t miss Barracuda Point and The Drop-Off. Keep in mind that only 176 permits to dive at the island are issued each day, costing 140 MYR per person. The resorts on the neighboring islands each get a specific number of permits per day and require divers to stay with them for a few days. So you’ll need to stay at those resorts and dive into the surrounding areas before they can get you a Sipadan permit.

7. Fall in love with Bali

Bali is the most popular destination in Indonesia, and its famous Kuta beach is known for its wild parties and surfing ( though I think it’s overrated ). However, there is much more to Bali than just wild nights and sun-soaked days. If you’re a thrill seeker, hike up to the top of Mount Batur, an active volcano, for a breathtaking sunrise. Paragliding and white water rafting are also super popular here, as is surfing (it’s an affordable place to learn if you’ve never done it). There are also lots of hot springs to enjoy, the Ubud Monkey Forest (a popular temple and nature reserve home to hundreds of monkeys), and numerous places to scuba dive, including the Liberty wreck and Manta Point.

8. Take in Ho Chi Minh City

Frantic, chaotic, and crazy, Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is the embodiment of the controlled chaos that rules Southeast Asia. You can’t quite figure out how this teeming mass of people and cars work together, but it does. Highlights here include touring the tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s, taking in the view from the Saigon Skydeck, eating your way through the street food scene, and seeing the city’s numerous temples.

9. Admire the sunrise over an Indonesian Volcano

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Java is Mount Bromo and its National Park. Don’t miss out on getting a photo of the smoldering Bromo volcano as it lies surrounded by the almost lunar landscape of the Sea of Sand. Get up early to catch one of the most memorable sunrises of your life. If you’re there in mid-August, you’ll be just in time to see Upacara Kasada, the traditional Hindu ritual of the Tenggerese, a Javanese tribe of the region.

10. Hike in Khao Sok National Park

Located in southern Thailand, Khao Sok National Park is constantly rated as one of the best parks in Thailand, with incredible trekking, camping, limestone karsts, cooling rivers, and a glistening lake. Visit for semi-challenging hikes, tons of wildlife, walking paths, and breathtaking sunsets. Park entrance costs around $6 USD while full-day guided tours are $95 USD. I highly recommend spending at least one night here to get the full experience.

11. Visit Kampot

Most people come to Kampot to enjoy the scenic riverside views, as well as the rolling hills that surround the city. Since you can explore easily enough on foot or by bicycle, Kampot is a great place to slow down and relax. There’s not much to do here but have lazy days by the river, chill, and eat (don’t miss the famous Rusty Keyhole for BBQ!). Don’t miss the pepper farms, as this region of Cambodia is filled with pepper farms where you can learn about the history of the spice, see how it is grown, and pick up what is considered some of the finest pepper in the world. Tours are usually free.

12. Take a cooking class

Food from this region is as varied as the countries themselves and learning how to cook a few dishes is a great souvenir of your time here. Even if you don’t plan to cook back home, you can still spend a day making and eating scrumptious food. Most big cities have cooking schools offering classes of 2-6 hours, often including a trip to the local market beforehand to select ingredients. I absolutely love cooking classes and urge you to take one at least once. They are a fun experience!

13. Take a food tour

If you’d rather eat instead of cook, taking a food tour is a fun way to gain insight into the region’s amazing noodle dishes, fresh seafood, sweets, and street food while learning about the history and culture behind the cuisine. Most major cities in Southeast Asia offer food tours. These include tours around local markets, street stalls, and tours to locally-owned restaurants and cafes where you can sample the local cuisine and connect with a local chef. If you’re nervous about street food, this is a great way to try some in a controlled setting. Tours usually last 2-4 hours and include multiple stops and several different dishes, with prices costing $40-75 USD per person.

14. Visit an elephant sanctuary

While riding an elephant is on many a Southeast Asia bucket list, once you know how much the animals suffer from abuse in order to provide these rides, you might think twice about taking one. An even better way to interact with elephants is to volunteer at or visit the Elephant Nature Park near Chiang Mai in Thailand. It’s a phenomenal place, allowing you to give back to the community and these magnificent animals all at once. After coming here, you will understand why you should NEVER ride an elephant. A one-day visit costs $70 USD.

15. See The Killing Fields

A visit to Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, may not be the most cheerful way to spend an afternoon, but it makes for an educational and memorable experience. Over 3 million people were killed by Pol Pot’s regime, including countless women and children. I recommend getting a guide so you can really understand what you’re seeing as you explore the area. Also, this horrific tragedy took place less than 50 years ago and is still very present so please be respectful as a visitor.  The site is located 10 miles from Phnom Penh. Half-day guided tours start at $66 USD.

16. Swim with Whale Sharks in Donsol

If you’re in the Philippines, check out the Donsol Whale Shark Interactive Ecosystem Project because there are not many experiences quite as adrenaline-inducing as swimming with a whale shark for the first time in crystal waters. These incredible creatures are around 45 feet (14 meters) long and yet incredibly gentle and curious. I loved floating at the surface being able to look below and see them slowly swim below me. Get some people together and rent a boat for a half day, explore the area, and go ‘shark-seeing’ for a good cause.  

  For a ton more information, visit my country specific travel guides for more detailed information on each place:

• Cambodia Travel Guide
• Indonesia Travel Guide
• Laos Travel Guide
• Malaysia Travel Guide
• Singapore Travel Guide
• Thailand Travel Guide
• Vietnam Travel Guide

Southeast Asia Travel Costs

Accommodation – Accommodation in Southeast Asia is really cheap, making it the perfect place to travel if you are on a budget. Hostels are plentiful, as are budget guesthouses and hotels. It’s also very cheap to splash out here if you’re in need of some luxury.

Generally, you can find hostel dorm rooms for as little as $6-8 USD in Cambodia and $3-6 USD in Laos. In Thailand, 4-6-bed dorm rooms are $8-12 USD, while in Vietnam you can expect to pay $5-7 USD. In Indonesia, prices range between $5-10 USD for a 4-6-bed dorm room. Expect to pay at least $15-20 per night for a private room with air conditioning. Free Wi-Fi is standard in most hostels, free breakfast is common, and many hostels even have pools. In more remote areas, hot water isn’t common so make sure to check in advance if that’s an issue for you.

Simple guesthouses or bungalows throughout Southeast Asia generally cost $12-20 USD per night for a basic room with a fan (sometimes air conditioning) and hot water. If you want something nicer that includes a more comfortable bed and a TV, expect to pay $25-35 USD per night.

For backpackers, budgeting around $10 USD per night for accommodation is pretty safe no matter where you go in Southeast Asia. If you’re looking for a higher-end hotel room with more amenities, expect to pay $20-50 USD per night for a room. Anything over that is luxury territory.

Camping is available in certain areas, usually for just a few dollars per night for a basic tent plot without electricity. However, this is about the same price as hostels so it’s not really any cheaper.

Food – While each country’s cuisine varies, overall, Southeast Asian food is aromatic, spicy, and flavorful. Typical spices and herbs include garlic, basil, galangal, cilantro, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chilies, and fish sauce. No matter what region you’re in, you can expect to find a variety of curries, salads, soups, noodle dishes, and stir-fries.

Rice and noodles are central to Southeast Asian food, while the meat is usually pork, chicken, fish, or seafood, which is everywhere on the islands and coastal areas.

While traveling Southeast Asia, street food is the most popular food and cheapest option. On average, these meals cost $1-5 USD. You find these stalls throughout this region lining most streets and every market. They are ubiquitous in the region. In Singapore, street food (from “hawker stands” as they’re known there) costs around $4-5 USD for a meal. Even if you go into small local restaurants, the price doesn’t increase that much.

Food that costs $2 USD at a street stall generally only costs $4-6 USD at a local restaurant. If you went into a restaurant in Thailand, you’d pay around $3-4 USD for a pad Thai that would have cost $1-2 USD on the street.

In Cambodia, street food is around $1-2 USD, while restaurants charge around $3-5 USD for a dish like amok (a coconut milk dish) or luc lac (pepper gravy beef).

Western meals, including burgers, pizza, and sandwiches usually cost around $7-10 USD. But these generally aren’t that great. If you want something that actually tastes as it does back home, expect to spend at least $10-12 USD for your meal.

While cheap, alcohol can take a bite out of your budget if you’re not careful. Those $1-2 USD beers add up! Wine and cocktails are more expensive, generally around $3-5 USD. A cappuccino is typically around $2 USD. Bottled water is plentiful and costs less than $1 USD.

There’s a growing cutting-edge foodie scene in the region and, if you want to splurge, you can do so on some really good meals. Big cities like Bangkok, KL, and Singapore, all have world-class Michelin star restaurants as well some incredible fusion restaurants.

Since dining out is so cheap in the region, there’s no point in grocery shopping unless you’re looking to get some pre-made salads or fruits. Additionally, a general lack of kitchens in most hostels and hotels makes it difficult to cook even if you wanted to. If you do purchase your own groceries, expect to spend around $25 USD per week for basic groceries like local produce, rice, and some meat (while avoiding expensive imported items like cheese and wine).

Backpacking Southeast Asia Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $45 USD per day, you can stay in hostel dorms, eat out at local markets and street stalls, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities, minimize paid activities, and use public transportation to get around. You’re not going to be able to splash out but you’ll be able to live the typical backpacker experience without really stressing over expenses.

On a mid-range budget of $85 USD per day, you can stay in budget hotels or private hostel rooms, eat more restaurant meals, do more paid activities like cooking classes, take some taxis, and enjoy a few more drinks. You won’t live large, but you won’t be missing out either.

On an upscale budget of $150 USD or more per day, you can stay in nicer hotels with more amenities, eat out as much as you want, do more paid tours including private tours, hire a driver, fly between destinations, and basically do whatever you want. The sky is the limit with this kind of budget!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Backpacking Southeast Asia is cheap. There’s little opportunity to spend a lot of money since everything is already so inexpensive unless you intentionally are trying to splash out on fancy meals and high end hotels. The two reasons why most travelers end up overspending is that they eat a lot of Western food and drink way too much. If you want to save money while traveling in this part of the world, cut down on your drinking and skip the Western food. While country guides have more specific ways to save money, here are some general ways to save money in Southeast Asia:

• Stay with a local – Accommodation is cheap in Southeast Asia but nothing’s cheaper than free! Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll also meet great people who can show you around and share their insider tips and advice.
• Book tours and day trips as a group – You have more negotiation power when you’re with a group of people buying multiple spots or tickets. Traveling alone? Meet a friend at a hostel and see if they want to join the same tour as you. I’ve met some great friends over the years doing this and highly recommend it.
• Don’t book in advance – Don’t book any tours or activities before you get to your destination. They’ll be much cheaper when you arrive as you’ll be able to negotiate a lower price as you’ll find companies are often offering the same tour and competing. Anything you see online is more expensive than you need to pay!
• Eat on the street – The street food is the best food. The food is the best and cheapest you’ll find. It’s a great way to try new foods and get to chat with locals as well. This is where locals eat so if you want insight into local culture, good food, and savings, eat the street food. Look for where locals are eating to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
• Bargain hard – Nothing is ever at face value here. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted is way higher. There’s a haggling culture in the region so play the game and save some money. It’s important not to convert it in your head to your own currency because it will usually sound cheap even though you might still be getting ripped off. You’ll never get the local price, but you might come close!
• Minimize your drinking – Drinks really add up. Even with cheap drinks, if you’re not aware, you’ll end up spending more money on beer than on food and accommodation. If you want to drink, head to the supermarkets, drink at the hostel, or check out the local happy hours.
• Pack a water bottle – A water bottle with a purifier comes particularly in handy in Southeast Asia since you can’t usually drink the tap water. Save money and thousands of plastic bottles and get a bottle that can purify the tap water for you. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw as it has a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Southeast Asia

I’ve been traveling Southeast Asia since 2005 and have stayed in hundreds of places. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Southeast Asia:

• The Siem Reap Pub Hostel (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Mad Monkey Siem Reap (Siem Reap)
• Onederz Sihanoukville (Sihanoukville)
• Monkey Republic (Sihanoukville)
• Onederz Phnom Penh (Phnom Penh)
• Sla Boutique Hostel (Phnom Penh)
• The Magic Sponge (Kampot)
• Indigo House Hotel (Luang Prabang)
• Sa Sa Lao (Luang Prabang)
• Sanga Hostel (Pakse)
• Nana Backpackers Hostel (Vang Vieng)
• Dream Home Hostel (Vientiane)
• Traveller Bunker Hostel (Cameron Highlands)
• De’Native Guest House (Cameron Highlands)
• Kitez Hotel & Bunks (Kuala Lumpur)
• Sunshine Bedz Kuala Lumpur (Kuala Lumpur)
• Ryokan Muntri Boutique Hostel (Penang)
• Mad Monkey Hostel (Bangkok)
• D&D Inn (Bangkok)
• Kodchasri B&B (Chiang Mai)
• The Royal Guest House (Chiang Mai)
• Green Leaf (Khao Yai)
• Lonely Beach Resort (Ko Chang)
• The Sanctuary (Koh Phangan)
• Na-Tub Hostel (Koh Phangan)
• Pineapple Guesthouse (Phuket)
• Dream Lodge
• The Pod Capsule Hostel
• The Scarlet
• Under the Coconut Tree Guesthouse (Hoi An)
• Fuse Beachside (Hoi An)
• Pretty Backpackers House (Da Lat)
• Hanoi Old Quarter Hostel (Hanoi)
• Luxury Backpackers Hostel (Hanoi)
• The Hideout (HCMC)
• City Backpackers Hostel (HCMC)

How to Get Around Southeast Asia

Public transportation – Public transportation costs from a few pennies to a few dollars, with Singapore and Malaysia offering the most comprehensive public transportation systems. In Thailand, local buses cost around $0.25 USD per trip, while the Metro and Skytrain in Bangkok cost $0.50-1.50 USD per trip. In Cambodia, a bus ticket in Phnom Penh costs just $0.40 USD per ride.

Major cities generally have subway systems but mostly you’ll be using the bus or shared taxis to get around.

Tuk-tuks (small, shared taxis with no meter) are available around much of the region and require a bit of haggling. They usually have 3-6 seats and generally cost more than public transportation but are faster. To find a reputable driver, ask your accommodation as they usually know someone. Tuk-tuk drivers can often be hired for the day for a discounted rate (this is what a lot of people do to visit the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, for example).

Taxi – Taxis in the region are generally safe, though it’s not uncommon to have to haggle. Scams to rip you off aren’t uncommon either, so always ask your accommodation to call you a taxi whenever possible so you know you’ll get a reputable company.

In Singapore and Indonesia, taxi drivers do put on the meter. In Bangkok, you can get taxi drivers to use the meter, but if you’re hailing one in a tourist area, he might try to avoid using it. In Vietnam, the meter is sometimes rigged, but if you can get a reputable company like Mai Linh, you won’t have any problems.

Ridesharing – Grab, DiDi, and Gojek are Asia’s answer to Uber. They work the same way: you hire a driver to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi, though drivers are a bit unreliable as the practice is not as widespread here as in other parts of the world.

Just keep in mind that some drivers are driving motorcycles so be sure to double check what kind of vehicle is picking you up if you don’t want to ride on the back of one.

Bus – The easiest and cheapest way to travel around Southeast Asia is by bus. The backpacker trail is so worn that there is a very well-established tourist bus system to take you anywhere. Buses costs vary between $5-25 USD for a 5-6 hour journey. Overnight buses cost $20-35 USD depending on distance (they often have reclining seats so you can get a decent sleep).

You can check ticket prices and book tickets for all the different bus companies across Southeast Asia at 12go.asia.

Train – Train service is limited in the region and not something to really consider when you travel Southeast Asia. You can take a train up and down the coast of Vietnam and there’s some limited scenic rails in Malaysia. Thailand is the only country that has an extensive train system that lets you travel all its regions (and onward to Singapore) from Bangkok.

The train prices in Southeast Asia are determined by distance and class. Night trains with sleeper cars are more expensive than day trains. The night train to Chiang Mai from Bangkok takes twelve hours and costs $27 USD for a sleeper seat. However, that same train during the day is $8-9 USD. In Vietnam, trains run up and down the coast and cost $60 USD from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Flying – The cost of flying around Southeast Asia has come down in recent years due to the rise of low-cost airlines. Scoot, Jetstar, and AirAsia are the biggest. Nok Air has a lot of flights within Thailand , and VietJet Air is popular in Vietnam . Lion Air serves Indonesia , but its safety record is really spotty and I personally would not fly them. If you book early, you can save on fares, as most of the airlines offer deeply discounted fare sales all the time, especially Air Asia.

Just make sure that the airport these budget airlines fly into isn’t too far out of your way (transportation from the secondary airport sometimes negates the savings from using the budget airline itself).

Also, keep in mind that you usually must pay to check your baggage on these cheap flights. If you wait to pay for your luggage at the gate, you end up paying almost double. Travel carry-on only to avoid this added cost.

All in all, I only recommend flying if you are pressed for time or find a super cheap deal. Otherwise, stick to the bus.

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Southeast Asia is safe, though popularity of the practice varies by country (it’s more common in Malaysia, but not so much in Cambodia). Dress respectably, smile while making eye contact with drivers, and use a cardboard sign to tell people where you’re headed. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Pack plenty of water and food. Also, make sure the people picking you up understand you’re hitchhiking and not flagging down a taxi.

Hitchwiki is a great resource for hitchhiking tips.

Car rental I don’t recommend renting a car in Southeast Asia. Rental cars are expensive ($40 USD per day or more) and the roads here are in poor shape. I would never drive around the region.

When to Go to Southeast Asia

The best time of year to visit Southeast Asia is from November to April when temperatures are milder (though temperatures vary drastically by region). It may be mild in Thailand in January and hot in Malaysia but in Northern Vietnam, it’s cold! Also, one of the biggest mistakes people make is not taking into account the rainy season. In some cases it won’t make a big difference but definitely does if it’s a beach trip.

In Indonesia, the best time to visit is April to October. Temperatures average 24-30ºC (75-86ºF), and the weather is mostly dry. July to September is the peak holiday season and when you can expect to pay the highest rates. December to February is the rainy season.

In Malaysia, January-March and June-September are the best time to visit, as these months have the lowest average rainfall. It is still hot and humid during this time though. The rainy season is from October to December. Singapore’s climate/weather is much like Malaysia’s.

In Vietnam, the weather varies by region. In Central Vietnam (including Hoi An and Nha Trang), January-May is the best time to visit because it is dry and the temperatures average 21-30°C (70-86°F). June to August is also a decent time to visit. If you want to stick around Hanoi, March to April is great, or October to December (for mildest temperatures). The rainy season is May-September.

Thailand has three seasons: hot, hotter, and hottest. It’s always warm, though the weather is nicest between November and February (which is also peak tourist season). Bangkok is “coolest” and driest during this time (but still averaging a hot 29°C/85°F each day). April and May are the hottest months, and the rainy season is June-October. The gulf islands get pretty rainy from August to December.

The dry season in Cambodia is from November-May and the cool season is from November-February (and when most people visit). Temperatures during this time are still high, but humidity is lower. Laos has the same cool season as Cambodia, with the dry season running from November-April.

In the Philippines, it’s mostly warm all year long with an average daily high of 26°C (80°F). There are rainy and dry seasons and temperatures are hot and dry from March-May and cooler December-February. The best time to visit is between January-April when it’s less humid. Monsoon Season is July-October.

For more information on when to go to places, visit the specific country guides.

How to Stay Safe in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an incredibly safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo and even as a solo female traveler. Violent crime is super, duper rare. Petty theft (including bag snatching) is the most common type of crime in Southeast Asia, especially around popular tourist landmarks. Always keep your valuables out of reach on public transportation and in crowds just to be safe. Never leave your valuables unattended while at the beach and always keep a hold of your purse/bag when out and about as bag snatching is common.

That said, outside touristy areas, theft is really rare. Heck, it’s pretty rare in touristy areas too! But a little vigilance goes a long way and it’s better to be safe than sorry.

There are some common scams around that you’ll want to be aware of, such as the motorbike scam. This involves a bike rental company trying to charge you for damage to the bike that you didn’t cause. To avoid this, always take photos of your rental before you leave so you can protect yourself from baseless claims.

Another common scam involves a tuk-tuk driver taking you somewhere you didn’t want to go in hopes you’ll buy something from the shop/restaurant he dropped you off at (he gets a commission if you do). Simply refuse to buy anything and demand to go back to where you were — or find another driver.

For other common travel scams, read this post about major travel scams to avoid in the region .

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though it’s generally a good idea to avoid walking around alone at night just to be safe. It’s always a good idea to carry some extra cash to get home in a taxi if you need to. Additionally, always keep an eye on your drink at the bar and never accept drinks from strangers. Be sensible when it comes to dating while traveling and meeting people in public places. As I’m not a woman, please check out some solo female travel blogs to get the best insight.

Overall, the people who get in trouble here tend to be involved with drugs or sex tourism. Avoid those two things and you should be fine. Keep in mind that it’s not always obvious how old someone is or if they’re a sex worker so be mindful when getting involved in romantic interactions. Also, penalties for drug use in this region are stiff so even if you’re here to party, skip the drugs.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Southeast Asia, check out this post that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Southeast Asia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

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Southeast Asia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Southeast Asia travel and continue planning your trip:

The 4 Best Hostels in Singapore

The 6 Best Hostels in Bali

The 22 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

5 LGBTQ Travel Tips for Asia

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip

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