- The best domestic travel insurance plans
- What Exactly Is domestic Travel Insurance?
- The price of domestic travel insurance
- What does domestic travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of domestic travel insurance
- Why take out domestic travel insurance?
- How to choose the right domestic travel insurance
- Do your current insurance policies cover domestic travel insurance?
- FAQ
domestic travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Domestic travel insurance covers risks like cancellations and lost items for trips within Singapore, including staycations.
2. Price: A domestic policy for a short trip within Singapore generally costs between S$15 and S$50.
3. Coverage: It typically covers trip cancellation and medical emergencies, but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk activities.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Your MediShield Life and credit cards offer limited or no cover for trip cancellations or lost belongings.
5. Tips: For staycations, check coverage for non-refundable hotel bookings, activities, and personal valuables against policy limits.
6. Other useful info: Many insurers now include specific COVID-19 related cancellation and medical benefits for domestic trips in Singapore.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 38 travel insurance policies available in Singapore, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best domestic travel insurance.
The best domestic travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best domestic travel insurance plans available for residents of Singapore in 2025. These policies are chosen for their high medical reimbursement limits, low deductibles, and user-friendly terms for seamless local travel protection.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $4,000 | $50 |
|
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $4,000 | $50 |
|
| Tourist Card | $2,500 | $100 |
|
| World Travel | $4,000 | $75 |
|
| Globe Partner | $3,000 | $50 |
|
| Globe Traveller | $3,500 | $50 |
|
- Includes free teleconsultation.
- Digital policy management.
- Flexible cancellation.
- Coverage for last-minute bookings.
- 24/7 claims support.
- Mobile app for claims.
- No hidden fees.
- Quick cashless settlement.
- Cashless emergency treatment.
- Family plan discounts.
- WhatsApp claims support.
- Accommodation cost coverage.
- Online claim submission.
- Activity coverage for sports.
- Upfront payment for hospitals.
- Instant customer service response.
- Fast policy issuance.
- Adventure activities included.
- Easy claim tracking.
- Personal accident benefits.
- High accident limits.
- Covers local leisure and business trips.
- Student-friendly.
- Simple enrollment process.
The best domestic travel insurance depends on your plans and needs. Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find your ideal match and subscribe online.
What Exactly Is domestic Travel Insurance?
Domestic travel insurance is a dedicated policy that covers unexpected incidents during trips within Singapore.
It provides financial protection for events such as trip cancellations, accidents, medical emergencies, and loss of belongings when travelling domestically.
This type of insurance is specific to trips within one country and is essential for covering local risks that standard health or home insurance may not address.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out domestic travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in Singapore:
- When booking an expensive or non-refundable staycation in Singapore.
- For costly local event tickets that cannot be refunded.
- If engaging in adventure activities or water sports on Sentosa.
- To cover unexpected medical expenses from accidents during your trip.
- When carrying valuable items like laptops or professional camera gear.
- For protection against personal liability if you cause accidental damage.
- If your trip is cancelled due to illness or emergencies.
The price of domestic travel insurance
On average, domestic travel insurance costs between 2% and 5% of your total trip price.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 2-day weekend staycation in Sentosa | $500 | $10 to $20 |
| 3-day family sightseeing in Singapore | $950 | $18 to $36 |
| 5-day local exploration at multiple hotels | $1,500 | $30 to $65 |
| 7-day luxury staycation | $2,500 | $45 to $100 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your domestic travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: longer trips increase the insurance cost.
- accommodation type: premiums are higher for luxury or high-value stays.
- traveller’s age: older travellers may pay a higher premium.
- level of coverage: selecting higher claim limits or more comprehensive benefits raises prices.
- specific options: extra cover for valuable items, pre-existing medical conditions, or event cancellations adds to the cost.
What does domestic travel insurance cover?
Domestic travel insurance is designed to cover Singapore residents when travelling within the country, including local getaways, staycations or business trips.
It offers protection against risks that may arise from travel disruptions, accidents, health emergencies and losses during trips within Singapore.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Protects non-refundable bookings if you cancel before departure for a covered reason. | A minimum of $500 is recommended and deductibles should not exceed $30. Cancellations for personal reasons or weather are usually excluded. |
| 🚗 Missed transport | Covers extra costs if you miss pre-booked transport due to unexpected events. | Choose at least $100 of cover. There should be no deductible. Missing transport due to your own lateness is not covered. |
| 🎒 Personal belongings | Covers theft, loss, or damage to luggage and personal items during the trip. | Make sure the sum insured is at least $1,000 and the deductible under $50. Unattended or old items are excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Pays a fixed amount for long delays to transport like ferries or buses. | Look for $100 or more compensation after 6 hours, with no deductible. Delays less than 6 hours are generally excluded. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical treatment required due to accident or illness during the trip. | A minimum of $2,000 is advisable, with deductibles below $50. Routine treatment and chronic conditions are generally not covered. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation | Covers ambulance and transport to the nearest appropriate medical facility. | Ensure at least $5,000 cover and low or no deductible. Non-emergency transport or self-arranged trips are excluded. |
| 🪪 Personal liability | Covers legal costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property during the trip. | $50,000 coverage minimum, with no deductible over $100. Intentional damage and incidents related to work are excluded. |
| 💸 Emergency assistance | Provides cash advances or rapid help for emergencies during your trip. | $1,000 minimum recommended. No deductible preferred. Non-emergency requests or exceeding policy limits are excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Reimburses for unused bookings if you cut your trip short for a covered cause. | Minimum cover of $500 is ideal. Deductibles should be low. Voluntary early returns or minor inconveniences are excluded. |
| 🧍♂️ Personal accident | Lump sum payment in case of death or disability due to an accident during travel. | $10,000 minimum, with no deductible. Sports activities, self-inflicted injuries or intoxication are generally not insured. |
Cancellations for personal reasons or weather are usually excluded.
Missing transport due to your own lateness is not covered.
Unattended or old items are excluded.
Delays less than 6 hours are generally excluded.
Routine treatment and chronic conditions are generally not covered.
Non-emergency transport or self-arranged trips are excluded.
Intentional damage and incidents related to work are excluded.
Non-emergency requests or exceeding policy limits are excluded.
Voluntary early returns or minor inconveniences are excluded.
Sports activities, self-inflicted injuries or intoxication are generally not insured.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the domestic travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of domestic travel insurance
To be eligible for domestic travel insurance benefits in Singapore, several conditions must be met. Here are the main ones:
- Residency requirement: you must be a resident or citizen of Singapore at the time of policy purchase.
- Trip inside national borders: coverage only applies for trips within Singapore, including all islands and territories.
- Advance purchase: the insurance must be bought before your trip starts, usually at least 1 day in advance.
- Policy activation period: coverage starts and ends between the effective and expiry date stated in the policy document.
- Trip purpose: the trip must be for leisure, business, or official activities, not for permanent relocation.
- Maximum trip duration: trips must not exceed the maximum length stated, often 30 or 60 days per trip.
- Immediate notification: you must inform the insurer as soon as possible after an incident or claim event.
- Supporting documents: valid receipts, proof of loss, or medical certificates are needed for all claims.
Watch out!
Relying on your credit card's "free" travel insurance for a local trip? Check the fine print. Many cards offer minimal or no domestic coverage, often limited to personal accidents. For staycation cancellations or lost items, you'll likely need a dedicated domestic policy.
Why take out domestic travel insurance?
When travelling, unexpected incidents and health issues can occur, leading to significant expenses even within Singapore.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to $5,000 per incident, depending on plan |
| Medical repatriation |
| Up to $15,000 for emergency evacuation |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to $5,000 for medical, full repatriation covered |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Up to $5,000 per incident, per policy limit |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection |
| Up to $5,000 per incident, per policy limit |
- Central region: $180
- $300
- North region: $150
- $250
- Central region: $1,000
- $2,000
- North region: $800
- $1,500
- Central region: $8,000
- $15,000
- North region: $6,000
- $10,000
- Central region: $250
- $400
- North region: $200
- $350
- Central region: $150
- $250
- North region: $100
- $200
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
In addition to medical expenses, domestic travel insurance can include trip cancellation, personal accident, coverage for lost or stolen belongings, travel delay, personal liability, and emergency evacuation, providing broader protection for all types of local trips.
Good to know
Even a local staycation has risks. A sprained ankle on Sentosa or a last-minute cancellation can be costly. Domestic insurance protects your non-refundable expenses and covers medical emergencies. With providers like Chapka offering 24/7 assistance, you get affordable peace of mind for your local getaway.
How to choose the right domestic travel insurance
Not all domestic travel insurance plans offer the same coverage. Reimbursement limits, deductibles, and included benefits can differ significantly. Comparing these criteria ensures you select a policy that protects your local trip within Singapore effectively.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💸 Reimbursement limits | This determines the maximum payout for covered claims. | Choose limits that reflect your trip’s non-refundable costs including accommodation, activities, and transport. |
| 📉 Deductible | Affects out-of-pocket cost before insurance pays. | Low or zero deductible is best for frequent small claims, like minor injuries or lost belongings. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Restrictions might apply for pre-existing conditions or last-minute plans. | Check all requirements for eligibility and declare any health conditions in advance to avoid claim issues. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Age may affect premiums, coverage, or exclusions for seniors or children. | Confirm if seniors or young children are fully covered before purchasing family or individual plans. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Needs can vary for solo, family, or business travelers. | Pick coverage tailored for your travel group to ensure everyone’s needs are met on the same policy. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Longer stays may require additional coverage or higher benefit limits. | Select a policy that matches your full travel period for uninterrupted protection during the entire trip. |
| 🏝️ Geographic area | Ensure full coverage across Singapore, including islands and staycations. | Confirm Sentosa and all local destinations are covered, not just the mainland, especially for unique travel plans. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Bank cards and health insurance may not cover all domestic travel risks. | Review any existing protections before buying new insurance to avoid paying twice for similar coverage. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Coverage may exclude certain sports or local events. | Declare activities like water sports or adventure parks to secure additional coverage if necessary. |
Do your current insurance policies cover domestic travel insurance?
It is perfectly reasonable to wonder if your current insurance, like credit card insurance or the public health system, can provide domestic travel insurance, but in practice, this coverage is often insufficient.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Domestic travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why travel insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medisave/Medishield) | Never | Medical expenses at public hospitals for emergencies, capped at $100,000 per year. No trip cancellation, personal accident, belonging or liability coverage is included. | Travel insurance provides up to $100,000 for accidents, trip cancellation, belongings and third-party liability. |
| Private health insurance (Great Eastern, AIA Singapore) | Almost Never | Emergency medical treatment, usually up to $10,000 per incident. Trip interruption, baggage loss or travel delay are never included in these plans. | Travel insurance covers trip delays, belonging loss and up to $50,000 accident benefits for your whole trip. |
| Classic credit card (DBS Altitude, UOB Preferred Platinum Visa) | Almost Never | Limited personal accident coverage for registered trips, up to $150,000. Medical expenses and trip changes are not included, nor are belongings or delays. | Travel insurance guarantees medical, taxi fare, and cancellations, with $3,000 in medical and personal accident cover. |
| Premium credit card (OCBC Premier Visa Infinite, Citibank Premier) | Limited coverage | Personal accident, some travel inconvenience, up to $500,000, often for air tickets only. No coverage for most staycations, cancellation or hospitalisation during the trip. | Travel insurance covers hotels, activities and cancellations, with up to $5,000 per trip in overall claims. |
No trip cancellation, personal accident, belonging or liability coverage is included.
Trip interruption, baggage loss or travel delay are never included in these plans.
Medical expenses and trip changes are not included, nor are belongings or delays.
No coverage for most staycations, cancellation or hospitalisation during the trip.
Expert advice
Bank card and health insurance often exclude key situations like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is domestic travel insurance mandatory?
Domestic travel insurance is generally not mandatory in Singapore for local trips, hotel stays or staycations. Some special tours or activities may require proof of insurance, but this is rare. Although not required, it is strongly recommended, particularly for high-value accommodations or pre-paid event tickets, as unexpected cancellations can lead to significant losses not otherwise covered.
When is it recommended to purchase domestic travel insurance?
The best time to buy domestic travel insurance is immediately after booking your trip or accommodation. Early purchase ensures coverage for cancellations due to accidents, health problems or family emergencies before departure. This approach provides peace of mind and better protection against unexpected disruptions, often at no additional cost if done promptly.
How do I purchase domestic travel insurance?
To buy domestic travel insurance, first compare plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to identify your needs. Then, read all guarantees and exclusions, paying special attention to coverage relevant for travel within Singapore. Purchase your chosen policy online, and once payment is confirmed, you will receive a certificate of insurance by email to keep for your trip.
Can I purchase domestic travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can purchase domestic travel insurance even after booking your hotel or activities. However, it is best to do so before your planned departure date to get coverage for cancellations and pre-trip events. Some providers will only cover claims that arise after the insurance is purchased, so buying early secures more complete protection for your trip.
How do I make a claim on my domestic travel insurance?
In the event of a claim, notify your insurer as soon as possible and follow the instructions provided in your policy documents. Prepare supporting documents such as receipts, medical reports or police statements depending on the claim type. Most Singapore insurers allow digital claims submission and process claims within three to five working days for domestic trips.
Does domestic travel insurance cover personal belongings lost at a hotel?
Most domestic travel insurance plans offer some coverage for loss or theft of personal belongings, including items lost at a hotel. Coverage is usually subject to limits, typically between $500 and $1,500, and may exclude items left unattended or unsecured. Always check the terms, and keep documentation to support your claim if needed.
Is travel delay covered by domestic travel insurance in Singapore?
Yes, many domestic insurance plans include travel delay benefits, particularly for arrangements involving ferries, trains or other pre-booked transport. Compensation is usually provided if the delay exceeds six hours, with coverage for additional accommodation or meal expenses, up to the policy’s daily allowance limit. Always review your policy for specific exclusions and limit amounts.
Is domestic travel insurance mandatory?
Domestic travel insurance is generally not mandatory in Singapore for local trips, hotel stays or staycations. Some special tours or activities may require proof of insurance, but this is rare. Although not required, it is strongly recommended, particularly for high-value accommodations or pre-paid event tickets, as unexpected cancellations can lead to significant losses not otherwise covered.
When is it recommended to purchase domestic travel insurance?
The best time to buy domestic travel insurance is immediately after booking your trip or accommodation. Early purchase ensures coverage for cancellations due to accidents, health problems or family emergencies before departure. This approach provides peace of mind and better protection against unexpected disruptions, often at no additional cost if done promptly.
How do I purchase domestic travel insurance?
To buy domestic travel insurance, first compare plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to identify your needs. Then, read all guarantees and exclusions, paying special attention to coverage relevant for travel within Singapore. Purchase your chosen policy online, and once payment is confirmed, you will receive a certificate of insurance by email to keep for your trip.
Can I purchase domestic travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can purchase domestic travel insurance even after booking your hotel or activities. However, it is best to do so before your planned departure date to get coverage for cancellations and pre-trip events. Some providers will only cover claims that arise after the insurance is purchased, so buying early secures more complete protection for your trip.
How do I make a claim on my domestic travel insurance?
In the event of a claim, notify your insurer as soon as possible and follow the instructions provided in your policy documents. Prepare supporting documents such as receipts, medical reports or police statements depending on the claim type. Most Singapore insurers allow digital claims submission and process claims within three to five working days for domestic trips.
Does domestic travel insurance cover personal belongings lost at a hotel?
Most domestic travel insurance plans offer some coverage for loss or theft of personal belongings, including items lost at a hotel. Coverage is usually subject to limits, typically between $500 and $1,500, and may exclude items left unattended or unsecured. Always check the terms, and keep documentation to support your claim if needed.
Is travel delay covered by domestic travel insurance in Singapore?
Yes, many domestic insurance plans include travel delay benefits, particularly for arrangements involving ferries, trains or other pre-booked transport. Compensation is usually provided if the delay exceeds six hours, with coverage for additional accommodation or meal expenses, up to the policy’s daily allowance limit. Always review your policy for specific exclusions and limit amounts.
