Travelling is one of Singapore’s favourite pastimes. In fact, the Singapore Department of Statistics reports that Singaporeans made a total of 10 million trips overseas in 2024 *. With so many of us packing our bags and exploring the world, it’s time to clear up some common travel insurance myths so you can set off with confidence and peace of mind.
Myth 1: I don’t need travel insurance for day trips
A quick getaway to Johor Bahru or Bintan might not seem like a trip worth getting travel insurance for, but low risk doesn’t mean no risk. The last thing you want is for an unexpected mishap to ruin your break. Planning on making those trips across the Causeway a weekly affair? Consider buying an annual plan for even more cost savings.
Myth 2: I should buy travel insurance at the last minute if I am unsure about my trip
Last-minute travel deals and free cancellations make spontaneous trips easier than ever. But when it comes to travel insurance, waiting till the last minute isn’t the best move. Buying your policy early ensures your flights, hotels and activities are covered if plans take an unexpected turn.
Imagine booking a flight to Europe in three months from today only for an unexpected event like your furkid getting sick, to derail your plans. Thankfully, plans like Singlife Travel Insurance cover trip cancellation and trip curtailment for any reason1 so you can minimise your losses .
Myth 3: Travel insurance only covers trips abroad
You’d think travel insurance only kicks in while you’re overseas, but that’s not the full picture. If you come down with stomach flu (a.k.a the infamous Bali Belly) in Indonesia or twist your ankle hiking Bukhansan in Seoul, for instance, you can still make a claim for medical expenses even after you’re back in Singapore, including follow-up treatment2.
If you need help, Singlife’s 24/7 Travel Assistant helpline is just a call away. Our team of experts can aid in anything from sorting out a lost passport to finding you the nearest clinic or even providing travel advice before your trip. Travellers who want greater assurance will also be delighted to know that Singlife Travel Insurance includes free COVID-19 coverage.
Myth 4: Travel insurance automatically covers my children
Family holidays are all about creating memories, but before you jet off it’s important to check if your travel insurance covers your kids. Some plans have terms and conditions that limit coverage only to kids who travel with a parent or who fall under a certain age. However, there are plans that offer flexibility. For instance, Singlife Annual Family Package3 allows everyone in your family to remain covered even if they’re travelling separately . For bigger families, coverage from the second child onwards is free too!
If your child is traveling overseas by themselves for a school trip, they need to be at least 16 years old to buy their own policy, or an accompanying adult will have to purchase a group plan for them.
Myth 5: I have a pre-existing condition so I don’t qualify for travel insurance
Not true. Everyone deserves to explore the world with peace of mind! While many standard plans exclude coverage for existing medical conditions, Singlife now offers a rider for pre-existing medical conditions that covers overseas medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and even travel inconveniences4 related to your condition.
Myth 6: Travel insurance automatically covers any extreme sports I do on my holiday
Dreaming of carving up the Alps or diving into the deep blue? Not so fast, your travel insurance might not cover these extreme sporting activities. Many plans exclude activities like winter or water sports, while others require an add-on for coverage. With Singlife Travel Insurance, you can get the right protection by adding the appropriate rider to cover these high-adrenaline pursuits. Always check the fine print before taking the plunge!
Conclusion: Travel insurance comes in all shapes and sizes
A small mishap shouldn’t derail your trip. Travel insurance is essential since it can help with everything from lost luggage to flight delays, and even last-minute cancellations due to emergencies. The key is to research the plans available before settling on one that suits your specific travel needs.
Pick up Singlife Travel Insurance before you embark on your next globetrotting adventure and get an additional 15% off the premium if you’re a MINDEF/MHA/POGIS insured member.
Notes
*Source: Department of Statistics Singapore, “Outbound departures of Singapore residents by mode of transport” accessed 13 February 2025.
1Only available for Travel Plus and Prestige plans. Please ensure that you purchase the policy within 7 days after making the initial payment or deposit for your trip. No claims will be accepted if you purchase your travel policy after the 7th day of making your initial payment or deposit for your trip.
2We cover follow-up medical treatment within 31 days upon your return to Singapore if initial treatment took place during Your Trip or medical treatment within 3 days upon your return when initial treatment was not sought during your trip up to a maximum of 31 days from the initial treatment in Singapore.
3We cover children under 21 years old, or up to 23 years old, if they’re unmarried and studying full-time in a recognised institute at the trip start date with the Family plan.
450% co-payment applies.
