Best Travel Insurance in Indonesia for Health Coverage

Travel to Indonesia can be an irresistible escape that is conveniently close to home. You're no more than three hours away from lounging at a picturesque resort in Bali, where the weekend stretches before you filled with the promise of sun, sail, and a refreshing cocktail by the sea. 

However, to fully enjoy these delights worry-free, it's crucial to ensure you have the right travel insurance in place before you depart. With a plethora of travel insurance providers available in Singapore, how can you be certain that you're choosing a policy that offers the best coverage for your Indonesian getaway? 

In this guide, we will navigate all that travel insurance has to offer, comparing the offerings to find the best value, the most comprehensive health coverage, and those that truly stand out in terms of benefits and reliability when travelling to Indonesia. We aim to highlight what’s good, what’s cheap, and what truly meets the mark of mantap.

Best Travel Insurance Plan For Surfing in Indonesia

*Premiums are based on an Adult, Single Trip to Indonesia, 7 days.

While having a variety of options is advantageous, skipping travel insurance could lead you into risky waters. Remember, the purpose of securing insurance is not because we want to get hurt, but because we hope not to.

Surfing In Bali: Risks and Dangers

Catching your wave in Bali, Indonesia, is a unique experience, often more accessible than surfing off Australia's Gold Coast. With lighter crests, smoother tides, and a lower risk of shark encounters, Bali offers a seemingly safer environment for beginner surfers. However, the calmer waters shouldn't mislead anyone about the potential hazards of the sport.

Fun in the Sun aside, surfing in Bali carries its share of risks. Surfers often find themselves dodging collisions with others, avoiding sharp coral reefs, or even being struck by stray surfboards. While these incidents may seem unlikely, they are not uncommon and can lead to serious injuries or worse.

[One sobering incident involves Gunther Kitzler, who was surfing at East Java's G-Land earlier this March. After a wipeout, Kitzler didn't resurface for about 15 minutes, prompting his friends to initiate a rescue. Tragically, before they could reach the shore, they were met with a massive wave, severing Kitzler's leg rope and sweeping him away. 

His body was later discovered the following morning near Banyuwangi, about five kilometres from the accident site.]

Surfing In Bali: Safe Surfing Etiquette

When engaging with the powerful force of the ocean, the importance of adhering to surfing etiquette cannot be overstated. Proper surfing etiquette not only ensures your safety but also enhances the experience for everyone in the water.

• Respecting Right of Way: The surfer closest to the peak of the wave has the right of way. Make sure to yield appropriately to avoid collisions.
• Don’t Ditch Your Board: Always keep hold of your surfboard to prevent it from hitting others, especially in crowded areas.
• Give Priority to Locals: Show respect to local surfers who know the waves best. This not only fosters good relations but also enhances your safety through local knowledge.
• No Snaking: Cutting in front of other surfers who are already riding a wave is frowned upon and can cause accidents.
• Clear Communication: Use hand signals and verbal cues to inform others of your movements. This helps in preventing misunderstandings and collisions.
• Don’t Drop In: Avoid taking a wave if someone is already riding it from behind you, which is considered poor etiquette and dangerous.
• Pick a Surf Spot That Matches Your Skill Level: Choose areas suitable for your level of experience to avoid putting yourself in hazardous situations.
• Share Waves and Line Up: Take turns in an orderly fashion and share the waves, ensuring everyone gets a chance to enjoy their time.
• Master the Art of Paddling Out: Learn the best techniques to avoid interfering with other surfers as you head out to catch waves.
• Respect the Ocean: Always maintain an awareness of your environment and the conditions of the sea to stay safe while enjoying the surf. Do not litter out at sea.

Comparing Indonesia Travel Insurance Plans

*Premiums are based on one Adult, Single Trip to Indonesia, 7 days.

When selecting travel insurance for your holiday to Indonesia, the first thing you should look at—regardless of your planned activities—should be robust overseas medical coverage. Singlife emerges as a standout with its Travel Prestige tier, offering unlimited coverage for medical expenses incurred abroad. Additionally, this tier provides S$8,000 in emergency dental coverage and a substantial hospitalisation allowance of up to S$50,000, ensuring comprehensive protection if you find yourself needing medical care in Indonesia.

For travellers who engage in adventure sports or extreme activities like white water rafting, paragliding, and surfing, MSIG’s Premier Pre-Ex Plan is worth considering. This plan includes S$1,500 coverage for damaged equipment and a personal liability cover of up to S$1,000,000. Additionally, it provides up to S$500,000 for accidental death and permanent disability, placing it among the top-tier options for those seeking extensive coverage tailored to adventurous pursuits.

On the more affordable end, Starr TraveLead Essential offers a cost-effective solution for budget-conscious travellers. Priced at just S$26.52, this plan offers a modest S$200,000 coverage for overseas medical expenses. It strips back on extraneous benefits, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a no-frills insurance option while still ensuring essential protections are in place.

The Best Travel Insurance Plans for Indonesia

FWD Premium

For those seeking a balance between cost and coverage, the FWD Premium plan stands out. Priced competitively, it provides a comprehensive range of benefits that cater well to the needs of the casual traveller visiting Indonesia.

• Total Medical Coverage: Offers up to S$200,000 in overseas medical coverage, including unlimited coverage for emergency evacuation and repatriation.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: Policyholders benefit from an overseas hospitalisation cash allowance of S$200 per day, up to a maximum of S$5,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Provides coverage for trip cancellations up to S$7,500, helping mitigate financial losses from unforeseen disruptions.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Includes up to S$3,000 coverage for personal luggage, with specific sub-limits of S$1,000 for laptops/tablets and S$300 for mobile phones.
• COVID-19 Coverage: It is important to note that COVID-19 coverage is not included by default and must be purchased separately as an add-on.

Starr TraveLead Essential

For budget-conscious travellers looking for affordability without sacrificing essential coverage, Starr TraveLead Essential emerges as a standout insurance option. With one of the cheapest premiums in the market, this plan suits those confident in their safety while exploring Indonesia’s diverse attractions.

• Total Medical Coverage: Up to S$200,000 in overseas medical coverage, including S$150,000 in benefits for accidental death or total and permanent disability.
• Hospitalisation Coverage: Policyholders can claim an overseas hospitalisation cash benefit of S$200/day, up to S$5,000.
• Trip Cancellation: The plan provides up to S$3,000 cover for personal luggage, with sub-limits of S$1,000 for laptops/tablets and S$300 for mobile phones.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Covers up to S$15,000 for COVID-19 related medical expenses.

Singlife Travel Prestige

Singlife Travel Prestige is renowned for its extensive coverage, particularly in terms of medical expenses, making it a highly sought-after option among discerning travellers. It offers some of the most comprehensive benefits in the travel insurance market.

• Total Medical Coverage: Offers unlimited overseas medical coverage and emergency medical evacuation. Additionally, it provides S$80,000 for follow-up medical expenses in Singapore.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Provides S$200 for every 24 hours of hospitalisation, up to S$50,000.
• Flight Delay Coverage: Compensates S$100 for every 6-hour delay, up to S$2,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Offers up to S$20,000 coverage for cancellations, S$3,000 for postponements, and an exceptional S$5,000 for trip cancellations for any reason.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Provides up to S$8,000 cover for luggage, with S$700 sub-limit per article, S$3,000 for loss of money, and S$5,000 for loss of travel documents.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Includes up to S$200,000 for medical expenses due to COVID-19.

MSIG TravelEasy Pre-Ex

MSIG TravelEasy Pre-Ex is designed for those with pre-existing conditions, offering tailored coverage that ensures peace of mind during travel. Its specific benefits make it a prime choice for travellers needing focused medical support.

• Total Medical Coverage: Provides S$250,000 for overseas medical expenses, with an additional S$25,000 for follow-up medical expenses in Singapore and S$5,000 for emergency dental benefits.
• Outpatient Coverage: Includes S$5,000 for emergency dental care.
• Trip Cancellation: Covers up to S$5,000 for travel cancellations and curtailments, with S$1,000 for travel disruptions.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Up to S$3,000 coverage for luggage, with specific sub-limits of S$1,000 for laptops and tablets, and S$500 for other items, along with S$2,000 for loss of travel documents.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Provides S$75,000 for COVID-19 related expenses.

Seedly Travel Safe

For those particularly concerned about COVID-19, Seedly Travel Safe offers a comprehensive insurance package designed to provide extensive coverage, ensuring your peace of mind during travel to Indonesia. This plan is particularly suited for travellers prioritising health security in today's unpredictable global health landscape.

• Total Medical Coverage: Provides up to S$200,000 for overseas medical coverage, and an additional S$100,000 for medical expenses incurred in Singapore upon your return. Also includes S$150,000 for accidental death or permanent disability.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Offers S$200 for every 24 hours you spend hospitalised, with a cap at S$20,000.
• Flight Delay Coverage: Compensates S$100 for every 6-hour delay, applicable both in Singapore and overseas, with a maximum of S$2,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Ensures up to S$10,000 coverage for cancellations and the same amount for any curtailments.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Covers up to S$10,000 for lost or damaged luggage, with a S$500 sub-limit per article, and up to S$800 for all valuables.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Integrated into the overall limit for overseas medical expenses, enhancing the protection against pandemic-related health expenses.

DirectAsia Travel Voyager 150

DirectAsia’s Travel Voyager 150 policy is tailored for family travel, allowing up to four children to share the same comprehensive coverage as adults, making it an ideal choice for family trips to Indonesia. This policy simplifies travel planning for families by providing extensive cover that ensures the whole family is protected under a single plan.

• Total Medical Coverage: Up to S$150,000 in overseas medical coverage with a total family limit of S$1,500,000 for emergency evacuations. It also provides S$100,000 for accidental death or permanent disability.
• Overseas Hospitalisation Coverage: Receives S$200 per day for hospitalisation, up to a maximum of S$20,000.
• Flight Delay Coverage: Grants S$100 for every 6-hour delay, applicable both in Singapore and overseas, up to a total of S$2,000.
• Trip Cancellation: Offers up to S$3,000 coverage for any trip cancellations or curtailments.
• Loss/Damage of Baggage: Provides up to S$1,000 cover for lost or delayed personal items during travel to the destination, and a S$200 payout after a 6-hour delay for possessions delayed on your return trip to Singapore.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Includes up to S$150,000 in benefits for COVID-19 related expenses, ensuring families have vital protection against the virus while travelling.

Comparing Indonesia Travel Insurance Coverage

To offer a clearer picture of the choices available, we've compared six notable insurance providers, summarising their key benefits alongside their premiums. For those planning a trip to Indonesia, the average expenditure on travel insurance is about S$52.

Cheapest Travel Insurance Policy: S$26.52 (Starr TraveLead Essential)

Most Expensive Travel Insurance Policy: S$87.72 (Singlife Travel Prestige)

Estimated average cost of a travel insurance plan for a holiday to Indonesia:

S$32.83 + S$26.52 + S$87.72 + S$64 + S$67.59 + S$35 = S$313.66

S$323.66 ÷ 6 = S$52.27

For those prioritising comprehensive medical coverage during their international travel, Singlife’s Travel Prestige stands out with its unlimited medical expense coverage. Close contenders are MSIG and Seedly, each offering substantial medical protection with coverage up to S$250,000, catering to those who might engage in more rigorous or risky activities.

In contrast, FWD, Starr, and DirectAsia are positioned as more budget-friendly options, with competitive premiums that make them accessible for a wider range of travellers. Despite their lower cost, these plans manage to offer substantial value, especially in medical coverage, with DirectAsia providing the lowest at S$150,000 but still ensuring adequate protection for most travellers’ needs.

Why Get Travel Insurance When Travelling To Indonesia?

Travelling to destinations in Southeast Asia for a quick vacation is quite common due to their proximity and the rich experiences they offer. However, it always pays to be insured. Here’s why securing travel insurance for your trip to Indonesia is one of the wisest preparations you can make.

1. Covers Payout of Lost or Stolen Items

The risk of theft is a real concern while travelling. Losing personal belongings, whether replaceable or not, can cast a shadow over your vacation. Travel insurance becomes invaluable here, not just for the replacement of items like cameras or smartphones, but crucially for essential documents like passports. Losing a passport overseas can lead to significant stress and disruption; having insurance ensures you receive compensation to help mitigate these issues, offering a form of financial relief when you need it most.

2. Subsidises Medical Costs

Medical emergencies can occur unexpectedly, and dealing with them can be daunting, especially in a foreign country. Having travel insurance ensures that you are covered for these untimely medical needs. Whether it’s a minor injury treated at a local clinic or a more serious condition requiring hospitalisation, your insurance policy can significantly reduce the financial burden, allowing you to focus on recovery without worrying about the costs.

3. Coverage for Emergencies Like Flight Cancellations

Flights today, more than ever, are subject to delays and cancellations due to a variety of factors including weather conditions and technical issues. This can disrupt your travel plans significantly, leading to lost bookings and extra accommodation costs. Travel insurance for flight delays typically cover such inconveniences, providing compensation for additional expenses incurred due to delayed or cancelled flights. This type of coverage is a lifeline when facing the unpredictability of air travel.

4. Covers Third-Party Liability

Travel insurance also plays a critical role in covering third-party liability, which can be one of the most financially demanding situations you might face abroad. For example, imagine you rented a car in Indonesia and accidentally drove into a local shop, causing significant damage to the property or even injuries to a bystander. Without insurance, you would be liable for all related costs, which could be substantial. Travel insurance policies usually cover such scenarios, handling claims related to property damage or personal injuries inflicted on third parties. This coverage not only protects your finances but also provides peace of mind during your travel, ensuring minor accidents don’t turn into major financial burdens.

Selecting the Optimal Travel Insurance Plan for Your Trip to Indonesia

Step 1: Look for Adequate Coverage

While the cost of the policy is an important consideration, the benefits and limits of coverage should be your primary focus. Evaluate each plan for key coverage areas such as medical expenses related to COVID-19, trip cancellations, flight delays, and baggage theft or damage. Ensuring that these primary concerns are covered adequately can prevent significant financial loss in case of emergencies.

Step 2: Be Insured for Pre-existing Conditions

If you have pre-existing medical conditions, it’s essential to find a travel insurance policy that addresses these. The right plan will cover medical emergencies that might arise from these conditions, including coverage for pregnancy-related issues, injuries, or illnesses that occur during your trip. Look for policies that offer comprehensive overseas hospitalisation, including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, to ensure you're well-protected.

Step 3: Compare Policy Premiums

The cost of travel insurance can vary based on your destination and the length of your stay. Most companies offer several tiers of coverage at different price points, reflecting the comprehensiveness of each plan. Consider the specific requirements of your trip to Indonesia and compare the costs and benefits of different plans. Some insurers may differentiate their premiums based on regional categorisations, so it's wise to check if the same premiums apply for all regions within Indonesia.

Step 4: Have Special Activities Coverage If Necessary

Indonesia is famed for its adventurous offerings such as scuba diving, surfing, and trekking. If your travel itinerary includes such activities, ensure your insurance plan covers these specific activities. Policies like MSIG’s TravelEasy®, which offers tailored coverage for adventure sports, can be ideal for such needs. This step is crucial for those engaged in high-risk activities as it ensures that any related injuries or equipment damage are covered.

Step 5: Consider Trip Cancellation, Flight Delay, and Damage/Loss of Baggage

Indonesia, much like any other popular destination, is susceptible to natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, which can lead to unexpected trip cancellations or delays. A comprehensive travel insurance plan should cover you for trip interruptions, flight delays, and the damage or loss of personal belongings. This coverage is invaluable in mitigating the effects of unforeseen events that could disrupt your travel plans or result in financial loss due to theft or natural disasters.

Guidelines for Safe Travelling in Indonesia

Insurance is a crucial part of planning your trip to Indonesia, but it's just as important to stay vigilant and prepared for the local conditions and potential hazards. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind while exploring:

• Remain cautious when engaging in adventure activities. Always ensure your travel insurance covers the specific activities you plan to partake in, such as scuba diving, surfing, or trekking. Indonesia offers many exhilarating experiences that come with inherent risks, and being insured can mitigate these.
• Be aware of natural disasters by staying informed. Indonesia is prone to natural events such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. Regularly check the news and updates from reliable sources regarding any potential natural disaster warnings in areas you plan to visit.
• Monitor local media for any unrest or demonstrations. Protests and public demonstrations can occur, sometimes unexpectedly, and may lead to disruptions. Keeping an eye on local media can help you avoid areas of unrest.
• Only consume beverages from reputable, licensed establishments. Drink spiking and poisoning, although rare, are risks associated with consuming beverages from unreliable sources. Always ensure that your drinks are served directly by trustworthy staff.
• Avoid drinking tap water. It's advisable to drink only bottled or treated water while in Indonesia to avoid health issues related to water quality.
• Be vigilant about pickpocketing and watch out for suspicious behaviour. Tourist areas can be hotspots for petty theft. Always secure your belongings, be mindful of your surroundings, and avoid displaying valuables openly. 

Frequently Asked Questions For Travelling To Indonesia

Is travel insurance mandatory to travel to Indonesia?

While travel insurance is not mandatory for travelling to Indonesia, it is highly recommended. Having insurance ensures you are covered for any unexpected events during your trip. It's always better to travel with peace of mind, knowing you're protected against unforeseen circumstances, no matter the country.

Does travel insurance for Indonesia cover all emergencies?

The scope of emergency coverage provided by your travel insurance for Indonesia depends on the specific provider and the plan you select. It's important to review the details of each policy to understand what emergencies are covered. For more information and to gauge how well different providers cover emergencies, you can compare other policies online on SingSaver.

Am I covered on the way to and from the airport in Indonesia?

Yes, your travel insurance policy should cover you during your travel to and from the airport in Indonesia as long as the policy is active. This coverage is typically part of the broader protection that extends throughout your stay from the moment you depart until your return.

How much is travel insurance to Indonesia?

The cost of travel insurance to Indonesia varies based on several factors, including the provider, the coverage details, and the length of your trip. On average, a single trip policy might cost around S$52. If you're considering frequent trips, you might look at an annual policy, which will be more costly upfront but can be economical for multiple trips. Before deciding, it’s beneficial to understand the difference between single trip and multi-trip travel insurance to choose the best option for your needs.

Do I need a visa for Indonesia?

Travellers holding a Singapore Passport can enter Indonesia without a visa for short visits up to 30 days. This visa exemption is suitable for tourism, family visits, social interactions, attending short courses, and participation in free-to-attend seminars. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your entry into Indonesia.

Related Indonesia Travel Guides & News

• Official Website for Indonesian Tourism
• Klook’s Things to Do in Indonesia
• Antara: Indonesian News Agency