Travel Insurance Guide 101

Whether you’re jetting off to Bali for a lekker beach holiday, heading to Europe for a cultural adventure, or doing a quick cross-border mission to Namibia, one thing’s for sure: travel insurance is a must-have. But what exactly is it, how much does it cost, and do you need it for every trip?  

What is travel insurance? 

Simply put, travel insurance is your financial backup plan when you’re far from home. It covers unexpected situations like medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellations, and more. Murphy’s Law means things go wrong when you least expect it.  

For South African travellers, this means if your luggage goes AWOL in Dubai, your passport gets nicked in Thailand, or you need emergency medical care in the USA (which costs an arm and a leg), you won’t be left high and dry. Instead of worrying about massive bills or ruined plans, you can fully enjoy your trip. 

Want to see what kind of cover suits your trip? Check out Hippo’s travel insurance comparison tool and get the best deal for your adventure. 

Two types of insurance to choose from 

When it comes to travel insurance, Hippo keeps it simple with two main types: International and Business. Each is tailored to suit different travel needs, ensuring you’re covered whether you’re on holiday or sealing an important business deal abroad. 

International Travel Insurance 

No matter your plans international travel insurance has your back. This cover ensures that you and your dependents are financially protected while away from home, helping with medical emergencies, lost luggage, stolen passports, and even unexpected trip cancellations. Different policies cater to different needs, so whether you’re a thrill-seeker doing extreme sports or on a family beach break, there’s a plan for you. 

Need Business Travel Insurance? 

For the corporate jetsetters and deal-closers, business travel insurance offers peace of mind so you can focus on the job at hand. If a crucial meeting in Dubai or a conference in New York takes an unexpected turn—whether it’s a lost laptop, a delayed flight, or a medical emergency—this cover helps keep disruptions to a minimum. It’s designed for professionals who need to stay on top of their game, no matter where in the world business calls. 

How much does it cost? 

Now for the big question: how much is this going to set you back? 

Good news—travel insurance isn’t as expensive as you might think. The cost depends on factors like: 

For example, a young South African heading to Mauritius for a week might pay as little as R150-R300 for basic cover, while someone travelling to the US could be looking at R500-R1000 for comprehensive protection. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind. 

Want to find a policy that fits your budget? Compare different options right here.

Do you need it for overseas trips? 

Short answer? Yebo, absolutely! Long answer? Still yes. 

While travel insurance isn’t legally required for all destinations, some countries won’t let you in without it. If you’re heading to Schengen countries in Europe, you need at least €30,000 in medical cover to get your visa approved. 

Even if your destination doesn’t require it, think about this: 

So, unless you’re willing to take massive financial risks, getting travel cover is a no-brainer. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Find the right travel insurance policy with Hippo. 

How to choose the right policy for you 

With so many options out there, how do you know which travel insurance policy is best for you? Here’s what to consider: 

1. Check the medical cover 

Medical expenses should be your top priority. Look for at least R5 million in cover for international trips. If you’re going somewhere with expensive healthcare (like the US or UK), aim higher. 

2. Look at trip cancellation benefits 

Make sure your policy reimburses you for non-refundable costs if your trip gets cancelled or delayed. 

3. Consider lost or stolen luggage protection