best travel insurance for japan trip

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Best Travel Insurance for Japan: Your Worry-Free Guide

Jessica Merritt

Editor & Content Contributor

88 Published Articles 499 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 4 U.S. States Visited: 23

Michael Y. Park

17 Published Articles 169 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 60+ U.S. States Visited: 50

Table of Contents

The 5 best travel insurance policies for japan, is travel insurance for japan worth it, japan travel insurance costs, what japan travel insurance covers, how to get travel insurance for japan, final thoughts.

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Planning a trip to Japan is exciting, as a rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and breathtaking natural settings await you. Though generally considered a safe travel destination , a trip to Japan can still be perilous, as you could encounter natural disasters such as earthquakes or typhoons, travel delays, injuries, or illness. Before you take off for the Land of the Rising Sun, look into travel insurance that can offer reassurance and relieve some of the uncertainties of international travel. 

While travel insurance isn’t required to visit Japan, getting it can safeguard your travel investment and give you peace of mind as you travel. Whether you need to cut your trip short, experience a medical emergency, or have unexpected travel disruptions, travel insurance can protect you financially and help you connect with the necessary resources.

Read this guide to find everything you need to know about insurance policies for trips to Japan, including when it’s a good idea to buy it, what it costs, what’s covered, and examples of real travel insurance plans you can use for your next trip there.

Travel insurance for Japan can be affordable and offer comprehensive coverage. We checked out quotes for policies that at least include trip cancellation and interruption insurance and coverage for medical emergencies. What you pay depends on your age, coverage, trip cost, and other factors, so we’ve run the numbers for various scenarios to give you an idea of what you can expect in terms of coverage and cost.

Consider these travel insurance policies for a trip to Japan:

‌Best Japan Travel Insurance for Young Travelers: Aegis 

Affordable travel insurance policies are plentiful for young travelers because insurance companies generally offer reasonable rates for young adults. For a weeklong trip to Japan, a 25-year-old can expect to pay $35 for an Aegis Go Ready Choice policy . This policy offers trip cancellation coverage for 100% of your trip cost and trip interruption for up to 150%. You can even get covered for an employment layoff after a 14-day wait as long as you’ve been employed for 2 continuous years. Emergency medical coverage offers $50,000 in secondary coverage, including COVID-19, and $250,000 in medical evacuation and repatriation coverage.

‌Best Japan Travel Insurance for Seniors: Tin Leg

Though seniors should expect to pay more for travel insurance than younger travelers, Tin Leg’s economy policy may still be cost-effective and offer valuable coverage at a relatively low price. A 65-year-old would pay $90 for this policy, which offers up to 100% of your trip cost for trip cancellation and interruption insurance. There’s $20,000 for secondary emergency medical coverage and up to $100,000 in medical evacuation and repatriation benefits.

Best Japan Travel Insurance for Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR): Seven Corners

If you’re concerned you may need to cancel your trip to Japan for reasons not covered by the policy’s regular trip cancellation coverage, Cancel for Any Reason benefits can help. With Seven Corners Trip Protection Basic coverage, you can get up to 75% of your nonrefundable trip costs back if you need to cancel your trip. This policy also offers up to 100% trip cancellation and interruption for covered reasons, $100,000 in secondary emergency medical coverage, and $250,000 in medical evacuation and repatriation benefits. This policy costs slightly more than others at $106.50 for a 45-year-old .

Best Japan Travel Insurance for Adventure Tours: Battleface

Whether you’re planning to hit a Japanese ski resort, go whitewater rafting, or hike Mount Fuji, a travel insurance policy that covers adventure sports can help if you get hurt. With a Battleface Discovery Plan , you can get coverage for sports and adventurous activities that would otherwise be excluded. This policy is $71.84 for a 45-year-old and also offers up to 100% coverage of your trip costs for trip cancellation, 150% for trip interruption, $100,000 in secondary emergency medical coverage, and $500,000 in medical evacuation and repatriation benefits.

Best Japan Travel Insurance for COVID-19: Berkshire Hathaway

Japan has dropped its requirements for vaccination certificates and predeparture tests, but COVID-19 can still interfere with your Japan travel plans. A travel insurance policy that covers COVID-19 offers protection if you need to cancel or cut your trip short due to COVID-19. With the Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection ExactCare Value plan , you pay $49 for a 45-year-old and get up to 100% reimbursement for trip cancellation or interruption for covered reasons, including COVID-19. And if you get hurt or seriously ill while you’re visiting, the $15,000 in secondary medical coverage and $150,000 in medical evacuation benefits can help you get the medical treatment you need.

Wherever you travel, getting travel insurance can be worth it if you have nonrefundable travel expenses at stake. It is especially helpful if medical care is costly at your destination. It can also be worth it if you’re unfamiliar with your destination and expect to need travel assistance .

Japan is typically considered a moderately expensive travel destination, especially during peak travel times such as cherry blossom season . You likely have significant travel expenses invested in your upcoming trip to Japan. If those expenses are nonrefundable, such as flights without change options or prepaid hotel bookings, travel insurance can protect those payments and give you money back if you need to cancel your trip or cut it short for a covered reason.

While Japan has excellent medical services and universal health care that covers Japanese citizens, health coverage is not extended to visitors. Medical treatment can be costly in Japan , and it’s unlikely your U.S.-based health insurance offers coverage in Japan. Getting travel insurance for your trip to Japan that includes emergency health coverage can help you pay for medical expenses if you need treatment while you’re in Japan — or if you need evacuation for health reasons.

Visiting Japan can be confusing for new visitors, particularly if you’re traveling without a guide. Although travel insurance is most helpful for major problems, such as canceling or cutting your trip short or getting emergency medical care, this coverage can also come in handy if you use your travel insurance company’s travel assistance hotline for less catastrophic issues. For example, a travel hotline can help you get a prescription replaced or get connected with emergency cash or roadside assistance. Travel assistance hotlines may also offer translation services.

Comprehensive travel insurance for Japan typically costs 5% to 10% of your total nonrefundable expenses for the trip. This type of travel insurance generally covers trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical treatment, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, and 24-hour travel assistance. 

Let’s say you’ve booked a $2,000 trip. Reasonable travel insurance costs would be $100 to $200.

What you actually pay for Japan travel insurance depends on various factors, including:

• How much your trip costs
• How long you’re traveling
• How old you are
• Where you’re traveling
• The coverage options you choose
• The level of deductibles you opt for
• Coverage limits
• Optional features, such as CFAR or adventure sports coverage

See our guide to average travel insurance costs for more insight into what you should expect to pay for a travel insurance policy.

Coverage varies depending on the travel insurance policy, with some Japan travel insurance plans offering more coverage areas or higher benefit amounts than others. Still, most comprehensive Japan travel insurance policies include coverage for:

• Trip Cancellation: Trip cancellation insurance enables you to cancel your travel plans for any covered reason and receive full reimbursement for your nonrefundable travel expenses. 
• Trip Interruption: Similar to trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption insurance can reimburse you for nonrefundable travel expenses if you need to cut your trip short. Some policies offer a 150% reimbursement of your travel costs.
• Emergency Medical: Travel insurance policies with emergency medical coverage can pay out benefits if you need emergency medical treatment during your trip. Some offer primary coverage, which kicks in immediately, while others have secondary coverage, which requires you to use other available insurance coverage first before you can get benefits.
• Emergency Evacuation: If you encounter a serious medical condition and need to be moved for medical care, travel insurance with emergency evacuation benefits can pay for the cost of transportation and care to an acceptable medical facility.
• Delayed or Lost Baggage: You may need to buy replacement clothing, toiletries, and other necessities if your baggage is lost, stolen, or damaged. Coverage for delayed or lost baggage can reimburse you for these expenses.
• Rental Car Collision: Travel insurance policies may offer coverage for car rental damage so you can decline the rental company’s coverage.
• Travel Assistance Hotline: Your travel insurance coverage may include access to a travel assistance hotline that can offer help, such as directing you to medical facilities, connecting you with local resources, or communicating with loved ones on your behalf during an emergency.

Types of Japan Travel Insurance

You can choose from various travel insurance options for a trip to Japan. While we’ve highlighted comprehensive travel insurance plans with coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and more, you can customize your policy with as little or as much coverage as you need.

For example, you may look for a policy that offers emergency medical coverage or a policy that’s just for trip cancellation and interruption . Limiting your policy to specific coverage areas may offer savings. Or you may decide to upgrade your comprehensive travel insurance policy to include CFAR coverage or adventure sports , depending on your needs.

What To Look For in a Travel Insurance Policy for Japan

It’s a good idea to compare your travel insurance options before you buy a policy. Look at these factors that can influence how much you pay, your coverage, and how well your travel insurance policy works for you:

• Cost: Compare prices before you choose a policy — but also verify coverage so you’re comparing policies fairly.
• Coverage Options: Find out the details of what’s covered and the limits of how much you’re covered for. Also, understand policy limitations so you’re clear on what you’re protected for — or not.
• Policy Details: Get information such as how soon you need to cancel to get full reimbursement for your travel, what steps you need to take to get emergency medical coverage, and how to get travel assistance.
• Eligibility: Some travel insurance policies have eligibility restrictions for factors such as age and destination, so verify that you and your trip are eligible for coverage.
• Customer Reviews: Reading customer reviews can help you understand the experience others have had with a particular provider. You can learn what to expect from claims and customer service and how well the coverage works.

You have a few options for purchasing travel insurance for a trip to Japan. Usually, travel insurance for Japan is available when you book your travel, through a travel insurance website, or directly with travel insurance companies .

As you book your travel arrangements, particularly air travel or hotels, you may be offered travel insurance at booking. Though some airlines offer travel insurance, it’s also common to see third-party travel insurance offered when you book with online travel agencies such as Expedia and Booking.com . 

If you’d like to shop multiple policies at once, you can use travel insurance comparison websites such as Squaremouth . On these sites, you enter your trip information and get quotes from travel insurance companies. This approach can be good for comparing costs and coverage among policies available for your trip. 

Another option is buying travel insurance directly from an insurance company. Typically, you can get quotes from travel insurance companies and set up your policy online. You might consider buying directly if you’ve compared options and chosen a policy that works for you or if you’ve worked with a travel insurance company before and want to get another policy for an upcoming trip.

Weighing your options can save you money and help you find the right coverage at the best price, but don’t take too long to buy travel insurance. We recommend buying travel insurance within 2 weeks of your first trip payment for the best coverage.

While you can buy travel insurance for Japan, keep in mind you may already have some coverage. For example, travel credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve ® and The Platinum Card ® from American Express , frequently offer travel insurance benefits such as trip cancellation and interruption, rental car collision damage waivers, emergency medical coverage, and baggage insurance. Of course, you should read the details of this coverage to understand policy limitations. You may find the coverage lacking and decide to get a travel insurance policy to make sure you’re covered for everything you want.

See what’s covered and what’s not with credit card travel insurance in our guide to the best credit cards for travel insurance and protection .

Getting travel insurance before your trip to Japan can relieve stress and protect your travel investment. Whether you’re seeking affordability or comprehensive coverage, Japan travel insurance can cater to diverse needs. Understand your options, find the best travel insurance policy for your needs, and journey to Japan with confidence, knowing you’re covered for the unexpected.

For the trip cancellation and interruption insurance benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, 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.

For the car rental loss and damage insurance benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

For the baggage insurance plan benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need travel insurance for japan.

Travel insurance isn’t required when you’re visiting Japan. However, you may want to get travel insurance if you have significant nonrefundable travel expenses, you’re concerned about paying for medical care while in Japan, or you want to take advantage of additional travel insurance benefits.

How much does travel insurance to Japan cost?

Japan travel insurance is usually between 5% to 10% of your insured trip cost. For example, you should expect to pay between $100 to $200 to insure a $2,000 trip.

Does Japan have free health care for travelers?

Japan offers universal health coverage for citizens, expats, and long-term foreigners living in Japan. However, there is no free health care for tourists or short-term visitors.

What happens if you don't have health insurance when traveling in Japan?

If you need medical care when traveling in Japan and you don’t have health insurance, you have to pay full price to see a doctor and get treatment. You may be required to pay upfront or show proof of financial responsibility.

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About Jessica Merritt

A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.

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5 Best Travel Insurance for Japan – Requirements and Cost

Home | Travel | Asia | 5 Best Travel Insurance for Japan – Requirements and Cost

If Japan’s ancient temples and captivating landscapes are calling you, make sure you get Japanese travel insurance so you’re covered for any mishaps. You should visit this country at least once, but it’s also essential to plan for the unexpected. After all, anything can happen while traveling!

I’ll tell you upfront that travel insurance for Japan isn’t a requirement for entering the country. However, I consider it essential any time you take a trip. Besides, healthcare in Japan is super expensive, so it’s much better to pay for insurance beforehand rather than deal with huge medical bills in an emergency.

We’ve been using Heymondo for years now, and it’s proven to be one of the best travel insurance companies . It offers an excellent coverage-to-price ratio, and it’s one of the few providers that pays your medical expenses upfront , so you don’t have to pay out of pocket and file a reimbursement claim. You can use our Heymondo discount code for 5% off your policy.

5% OFF your travel insurance

Another great option if you’re traveling on a budget is SafetyWing . However, bear in mind that it has a $250 deductible per claim , and in case you need medical assistance, you will need to pay for it from your own pocket and then fill out a claim for reimbursement once you’re back home. I’ll share more about these and other travel health insurances for Japan below so you can find the perfect plan for your trip purpose and budget.

Guide to the best travel insurance for Japan

This article will cover everything you should know about travel health insurance for Japan , including:

Japanese travel insurance price comparison

Best travel insurance for japan, what does japanese travel insurance cover.

Tips for finding the best travel insurance for Japan

Do you need travel insurance for Japan?

No, travel insurance isn’t an entry requirement for Japan , but taking out a policy is always wise. This is especially true in a country like Japan, where medical services come with a steep price tag. While I hope you don’t have to deal with an accident or sickness during your trip, if you do, at least you’ll have the peace of mind of being covered by your Japanese travel insurance .

With travel medical insurance for Japan , you won’t have to worry about the expenses related to an injury or illness. Many policies also include benefits like trip interruption and baggage loss, but I’ll talk about that later .

Here is a chart that gives you a better idea of how much travel insurance to Japan costs . As you can see, the price ranges from around $1.50/day to $6/day. Of course, it’s also important to look at the coverage amounts and additional benefits before choosing a company.

For this comparison, I chose the best Japanese travel insurance plans from five top providers. I simulated the costs for a 30-year-old American traveling to Japan for two weeks with a trip cost of $2,500:

*Price used for example

This is just an example, but you’ll see that some insurance policies offer more coverage than others. Deciding which benefits you want is essential to choosing the best plan for you. Don’t worry; I’ll help you narrow down the options !

Let’s dive deeper into the best travel insurance for Japan . While we’ve been using Heymondo for years (and absolutely love it), I know everyone has different needs. For example, if you’re on a budget and primarily interested in medical-related protection, SafetyWing is an excellent choice.

Below, I’m sharing the five insurers that stand out in terms of pricing, coverage, and benefits.

• Heymondo , the best travel insurance for Japan
• SafetyWing , a cheap travel insurance for Japan
• IMG Global , a good Japanese travel insurance for seniors
• Travelex , a basic insurance for travel to Japan
• Trawick International , a great medical travel insurance for Japan

1. Heymondo , the best travel insurance for Japan

First, Heymondo is the best Japanese travel insurance for those looking for a high amount of medical coverage. With the Heymondo Top plan, you’ll have $250,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 for evacuation and repatriation. There are also great trip-related benefits like baggage loss protection, travel disruption, and trip cancellation.

Unlike other insurers, Heymondo pays your medical bills upfront , so you don’t have to pay out of pocket and file a claim for reimbursement. Just use the 24/7 app to contact the customer support team, and they’ll tell you the nearest hospital or clinic to go to. By the time you arrive, they’ll have paid everything for you, so you can focus on getting better. The customer support app is also handy for quick questions or concerns, as you can chat with a doctor without going to a medical center.

Indeed, Heymondo isn’t the cheapest option. Still, it’s competitively priced and offers incredible protection for unforeseen health emergencies, which is crucial for a country like Japan, where medical care is expensive.

We’ve had to rely on our Heymondo insurance throughout the years, and the company has always taken great care of us. From lost luggage and flooded camera equipment to countless stomach problems, Heymondo has supported us through it all.

Now that we’re traveling full-time, we use their long-stay travel insurance and can confidently recommend it. If you choose this company, take advantage of our Heymondo discount below .

2. SafetyWing , a cheap travel insurance for Japan

SafetyWing is another worthwhile travel insurance for Japan . As I mentioned above, it’s a good choice if you’re more concerned about medical coverage and on a tight budget. SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance is one of the best cheap travel insurance plans , although it does come with a $250 deductible.

If you’re a digital nomad or staying in Japan for a while to work, this is a convenient insurance policy since it automatically renews every 28 days until you pick an end date. Also, if you’re traveling with family, keep in mind that SafetyWing allows you to add two kids under age 10 to your policy for free.

It’s true that SafetyWing insurance offers fewer trip-related benefits, but it still comes with a decent amount of trip interruption and baggage loss protection. However, it doesn’t cover trip cancellation. Unlike Heymondo , SafetyWing requires you to pay any medical expenses upfront and file a claim for reimbursement.

3. IMG Global , a good Japanese travel insurance for seniors

IMG Global is another Japanese travel medical insurance that stands out mainly because of its variety of plans. For example, its GlobeHopper Senior plan is one of the best travel insurances for seniors , covering individuals up to 99 years old.

There are also policies for families, students, and expats, and IMG offers travel insurance for pre-existing conditions . Whether you’re taking a short trip or planning a longer visit to Japan, you can find a plan that meets your needs.

As for the price of this travel insurance to Japan , it depends on the specific policy and your chosen coverage limits. While this kind of customization is nice to have, it can also drastically increase the price. I recommend reading through the conditions and exclusions to know exactly what’s covered and what’s not.

Overall, IMG’s medical-related coverage is quite good. The company can cover up to 100% of your costs if your trip is canceled (up to 150% if it’s interrupted). However, its baggage protection isn’t as high as that of other companies like Heymondo , and IMG doesn’t pay your medical bills upfront, so you’ll have to file a claim to get reimbursed for out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.

4. Travelex , a basic insurance for travel to Japan

Travelex is another option and a good overall travel insurance for Japan , thanks to its travel and medical-related coverage. It only has two plans to choose from, so you don’t have to stress out about finding the perfect one. However, the policies aren’t as customizable as those with other providers.

The Travel Basic plan includes $15,000 for emergency medical services and $100,000 for repatriation. While the Basic plan is on the cheaper end, it offers a lower amount of coverage. The Travel Select plan costs around $30 more but bumps your coverage to $50,000 and $500,000 for emergency medical and repatriation, respectively. Still, I don’t think this is enough for Japan.

The Select plan can also cover pre-existing conditions with a 60-day look-back period. Moreover, this plan is one of the best travel insurances for families , allowing you to add children aged 1-17 at no additional premium.

However, when you compare Travelex to other insurers like Heymondo , it’s clear that the latter provides excellent protection and coverage limits for around the same price. I would favor Heymondo over Travelex, especially if you’re looking for the best travel insurance for Japan .

5. Trawick International , a great medical travel insurance for Japan

Lastly, Trawick International is another travel health insurance for Japan worth considering. It offers a variety of plans with travel benefits like emergency medical expenses coverage, evacuation and repatriation, and trip interruption protection.

That said, Trawick has limited baggage loss coverage and is better known as a medical-only travel insurance . If you’re a senior traveler or want coverage during your trip for a pre-existing condition, this could be a great option since some plans offer this benefit. Some add-ons, such as rental car coverage and Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR), are also available.

While the trip cancellation and interruption benefits are good, the amount of emergency medical coverage is relatively low. The plan we looked at provides similar coverage to Heymondo but at a higher price. Also, Trawick International doesn’t pay your medical expenses upfront, so you’ll have to pay out of pocket and then file a claim for reimbursement.

Remember, you should look at more than just the price when purchasing health insurance for traveling to Japan . The types of coverage below are must-haves for any policy:

Emergency medical expenses

Emergency medical coverage is the amount your insurer will pay for any doctor’s visits, tests, treatments, and hospitalizations you need if you get sick or hurt. You want this amount to be as high as possible, especially when looking for Japanese travel insurance .

Important ! Read through the conditions and exclusions, so you know exactly which illnesses and incidents are included.

Repatriation & early return

Repatriation will cover the transportation costs involved in sending you back to your home country due to serious illness, injury, or death. This type of coverage is usually included in Japanese travel health insurance , but it’s always a good idea to double-check.

Along the same lines, early return coverage pertains to situations where you must go home early due to an unforeseen event.

Baggage loss, delay & theft

Luggage issues are all too common while traveling, so this type of coverage is a no-brainer. It’s especially important in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka, where pickpockets like to target tourists. Of course, there can also be problems with the airline losing your bags.

Make sure your travel insurance to Japan includes this benefit so you can replace your clothes and toiletries without paying out of pocket. If you’re bringing a laptop or camera gear, check if your policy covers electronic equipment (some companies offer it as an add-on).

Trip interruption & cancellation

Trip interruption coverage amounts vary depending on the provider, but it’s another essential component of the best Japanese travel insurance . If something unexpected interrupts your trip, this benefit will cover the incurring costs for accommodation and meals.

Trip cancellation is not always included in travel insurance for Japan, but it’s well worth adding as an extra. You can learn more about this benefit in our guide to the best trip cancellation insurance . Remember, this isn’t the same as Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance , but I’d look into it if you want the option of canceling your trip and recouping the costs.

Other coverage

Adventure sports protection is another type of coverage you can add to your Japanese travel insurance policy . Activities like scuba diving, whitewater rafting, and bungee jumping fall under this category. Even hiking at high altitudes is considered risky, so I recommend adding this coverage if you plan on participating in extreme sports and activities.

Finally, natural disasters like tsunamis, typhoons, and earthquakes aren’t uncommon in a country like Japan. Including this type of protection in your policy is a good idea .

Now that you know the best Japanese travel insurance companies and what your plan should cover, here are some final tips:

• Look for the best coverage : Rather than focusing on the price of the policy, look at the amount of medical coverage it includes. It’s better to pay a little more for the best coverage. For example, Heymondo isn’t the cheapest option, but it has excellent protection benefits.
• Choose a company that pays your bills upfront : When you get hurt or sick while abroad, you don’t want to think about the medical bills; you just want to get treatment. The best Japanese travel insurance will pay your healthcare expenses upfront so you can focus on recovering. This is another reason why we love Heymondo . Other companies make you pay out of pocket and file lots of paperwork so you can get reimbursed, and in a country like Japan, the prices can be steep.
• Consider the onboarding process and policy contract : An insurer’s website and onboarding process can tell you a lot. Getting a quote should be fast and straightforward. Also, make sure you can read through all the terms and conditions before buying.
• Pay attention to the company’s customer service : This is an integral part of having travel insurance for Japan . No matter the time, you want to be able to contact customer service and get assistance in your language. Heymondo has a convenient 24/7 app to chat with a doctor and access your insurance documents.

If you’re still wondering if travel insurance is worth it for a trip to Japan, my answer is a resounding yes! While Japan is a safe country, it’s impossible to predict the future, so it’s better to be covered for unforeseen injuries, illnesses, and events.

Moreover, if you’re visiting big cities like Tokyo, you risk dealing with pickpockets and thieves. Japan is also known for being a site of natural disasters, particularly strong storms and tsunamis. Having a policy with natural disaster coverage and early return benefits is essential.

Heymondo covers all these things and more, so if you choose this Japanese travel insurance , don’t forget to get 5% off with our Heymondo discount code .

FAQs – Travel insurance in Japan

To finish up, here are some common questions and answers about choosing the best travel insurance for Japan :

Do I need insurance to travel to Japan?

No, you don’t need Japanese travel insurance to visit the country. However, I highly recommend it, especially since healthcare in Japan is so expensive.

What is the best travel insurance for Japan?

Heymondo is the best travel health insurance for Japan because it pays your medical bills upfront. Other excellent options include SafetyWing , IMG Global , Travelex , and Trawick International .

How much is travel insurance for Japan?

Travel insurance for Japan ranges from around $1.50/day to $6/day.

The best travel insurance to Japan should cover emergency medical expenses, repatriation, baggage loss, and trip cancellation.

What’s not covered by travel insurance in Japan?

Most policies don’t include adventure sports or Cancel For Any Reason coverage, but you may be able to add these benefits for an extra fee.

That concludes our guide to the best travel insurance for Japan ! I hope this article helps you pick the perfect plan for your needs so you can enjoy your trip in total confidence. If you have any questions or want to share your experience with one of these Japanese travel insurance companies , please leave me a comment below. I’d love to hear from you!

Stay safe, and have a great time in Japan!

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Finding the Right Travel Insurance for Japan

Here’s what you need to know about travel insurance for Japan, with a comparison of some of the options available—including those that you can book when you’ve already started your trip.

A short but necessary disclaimer: Getting travel insurance is important, but we can’t make the decision for you. We can only provide information to hopefully make that decision a bit easier. Also, please note that we do not sell or provide insurance ourselves.

Note: Antibody tests and PCR tests needed for travel purposes are generally not covered by travel insurance. As always, read the T&Cs carefully!

• Do I need travel insurance for Japan?
• Coverage for flight delays & lost luggage
• Japan travel insurance essentials
• Compare travel insurance providers for your trip to Japan

Japan travel insurance FAQs

You are ready for the adventure of a lifetime in japan what could possibly go wrong a lot, actually..

Apart from the obvious travel disasters (think lost luggage, pinched passports or canceled flights), getting sick abroad is, unfortunately, a possibility—and one you’d be well-advised to insure yourself against.

While getting a basic prescription for medicine in Japan is generally affordable out of pocket, more serious medical considerations like hospitalization or transport back home can easily run into the thousands of dollars (US). Having a travel insurance policy can give you some peace of mind, and is something most travel experts recommend. We may be Cheapos, but we believe in playing it safe.

Do I really need travel insurance for Japan? I heard it is one of the safest countries in the world.

Good point. Japan is ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, with extremely low reported crime rates. But, while you may not have to worry too much about your stuff getting stolen, there are other things to consider, besides falling ill.

For example, Japan is frequently hit by typhoons . The typhoon season generally runs from late July to early October, but has started earlier and finished later in recent years. A big typhoon can lead to canceled flights, long delays or canceled trips and tours. There are also earthquakes and other concerns .

Aren’t delayed flights and lost luggage covered by airlines?

Almost all airlines will reimburse you for lost and delayed luggage, as well as canceled flights. But you’ll need to check the conditions on your ticket carefully, to be sure. While most travel insurance policies offer this as part of the package, you probably don’t need to double-insure yourself on this.

But things become fuzzier for your trip overall; think about the bullet train tickets and tours you might book in Japan. While you can often get refunds for tours canceled due to bad weather, you might be stuck with hotel and transport bookings that you don’t need anymore if your tour is called off. Many travel insurance policies click into gear in this case.

COVID-19, Japanese encephalitis and other health concerns

In light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, many travelers are understandably worried about their upcoming travel plans. More on that below.

An older concern is Japanese encephalitis, which can be contracted via mosquito bites across most of Asia—not only in Japan. Luckily, it is extremely rare. It is estimated that less than one in a million travelers to Asia will contract the disease, and for most humans, it will be asymptomatic. A vaccine is available, but only recommended for those who will stay longer than one month in high-risk areas. Generally, bug-bite prevention is recommended as a first-line defense.

Other than that, it’s generally advisable to check that all your vaccines are up to date before embarking on your Japan trip.

Travel insurance and cancelations due to COVID-19

You might be wondering if your insurance covers cancelations due to COVID-19. In short, it will vary depending on your insurance provider. As always, check with your travel insurance provider and read the fine print and special conditions carefully. Never assume anything!

Travel insurance for Japan: What should your policy cover?

Generally speaking, the biggest items when it comes to travel incidents are medical expenses and emergency evacuations, which can run into the tens and even hundreds of thousands of dollars. So check that the Japan travel insurance or Japan travel health insurance policy you sign up for provides enough cover to make you feel comfortable.

Keep in mind that medical expenses really are for unforeseen situations and emergencies like accidents, or getting sick on the road. Medical tourism, check-ups or preventative treatments are usually not covered.

Anything else you might want to add to your travel insurance policy for Japan depends on what your itinerary looks like.

Comparing Japan insurance options for different types of travelers

Just a quick note before we get into it (another disclaimer): Always read the policy wording for any insurance very carefully before signing up. Terms and conditions can change over time, and also differ depending on factors like your age, country of residence, or how high you want your cover to be. 

We can’t recommend one best Japan travel insurance policy for everyone because we all travel differently, but we hope this overview is a starting point for you to find travel insurance for Japan that suits you, personally, best. Also, prices are subject to change.

Travel medical insurance: SafetyWing

SafetyWing offers travel medical insurance at affordable rates, starting from approximately US$57 for four weeks, for travelers under 40.

What is different about their plan is that you can extend it indefinitely, until it reaches the maximum of 364 days — after which you can renew your policy. This makes it an interesting choice for long-term travelers and digital nomads. SafetyWing rolled out their travel medical insurance a few years ago and recently added other health insurance products for those without a fixed residence in one country.

A bonus is that you can kick off your SafetyWing travel medical insurance plan any time, even when already on the road . Besides emergency medical, their policy also covers the travel basics, including trip interruption, personal liability and lost luggage. Since August 1, 2020, SafetyWing has also covered COVID-19, and from April 15, 2021, unplanned quarantine is covered, too.

While it may be a fairly new kid on the insurance block, founded in 2017, SafetyWing is underwritten by Tokio Marine, one of the biggest underwriters in the world.

Another option for Southeast Asians: FWD

If you are from Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong , Macau, Cambodia or the Philippines, you might want to take a look at FWD for travel insurance. Another fairly new insurer, they are expanding throughout Asia and seem to offer some of the cheapest plans we could find online, starting from approx. ¥ 2,200 for a single trip to Japan.

Their plan ticks all the usual travel insurance boxes, including medical evacuation cover, which is unlimited. It also seems to cover skiing—but confirm this with them.

Two other Japan travel insurance options: Atlas International and Travelex

Starting at approximately US$ 23.00 for a two-week trip to Japan, Atlas International is available to citizens of most countries. They offer you the option to play with the sliders, so you can e.g. add a deductible to bring down the premium or push up the cover if you are happy to pay a bit more.

Travelex has been around for quite a while and is a popular choice with North Americans. They have a good reputation and their starting rates are affordable; however, their medical expense cover for US citizens might be a bit low, depending on your needs.

Japan travel insurance comparison chart

Here is a quick, rough comparison of the different insurers we’ve mentioned that offer cover for trips to Japan for global citizens. Remember, all prices are approximate and subject to change and will vary depending on your age, country of residence, length of stay and specific circumstances! Where basic vs. extended plans were available, we picked basic for the sake of comparison.

Scroll to see all the options, if they don’t show up on your screen.

Coverage overview

This is intended as a very brief overview only. Always check the coverage and T&Cs carefully on your own!

Notes on the insurers: Allianz Travel offers three different levels of coverage from Bronze to Silver, with varying premiums and covers. Available to residents of Singapore. --> SafetyWing has a higher premium for those over 39 years of age. Travelex is a US insurer, but available for global citizens. Conditions may vary by country of residence, age and—notably—the total value of your trip that you want to insure. FWD is available to citizens of 10 Asian countries and regions: Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Japan and Macau, though the available insurance products differ by location.

You ask, we answer.

Is travel insurance required for Japan?

Generally, no—travel insurance is strongly recommended , rather than required, for Japan.

How much is travel insurance to Japan?

The cost of travel insurance for Japan depends on which provider you use for your policy. As a rough guide, it can range from ¥ 1,000 to ¥ 8,000 for a one-week trip, depending on your age, place of residence, itinerary, and preferences.

If you are under 40, a month-long travel medical insurance policy through SafetyWing will set you back approximately ¥ 4,700 , or 42 USD. It’s a good idea to compare multiple policies to work out which is the best deal for your visit to Japan.

What’s the best travel insurance in Japan for foreign residents?

If you are a foreign resident of Japan, looking for travel insurance for your upcoming trip OUT of Japan, you have access to the insurance providers listed above, as well as local providers. If you have a Japanese credit card , you could start by asking whether any travel insurance is provided through that, and go from there.

Post first published in February, 2020. Last updated in December, 2021.

• Health insurance
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Home » Asia » Japan » Guide To Japan Travel Insurance – ALL You Need To Know

Guide To Japan Travel Insurance – ALL You Need To Know

So, you’re headed to the Land of the Rising Sun? Great choice!

Japan is a MESMERISING blend of traditional culture and cutting-edge modernity. With its serene temples, bustling cities, iconic Mount Fuji, and cherry blossom festivals, there’s no place quite like it anywhere on earth.

And let’s not forget the delectable sushi, ramen, and sake that awaits every food enthusiast. Sounds delightful, right?

But, while Japan is known for its impeccable public manners and one of the world’s lowest crime rates, why take a risk when it comes to unforeseen mishaps?

Here, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about travel insurance for Japan , ensuring you’re covered for every adventure in this beautiful nation.

By the end of this post, we will answer all of your Japan travel insurance questions.

Do I Need Travel Insurance For Japan?

What should travel insurance in japan cover, what else should japan travel insurance cover, what is the best japan travel insurance, how to choose the right japan travel insurance for you, final thoughts on japan travel insurance.

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Japan is largely seen as a very safe country. Its cities are clean, and crime rates are significantly lower compared to global averages. But, as with any travel, unexpected events like natural calamities, health issues, or even simple travel inconveniences can arise. Japan is also known for its typhoons and earthquakes as well as a fee nasty tropical diseases.

While Japan doesn’t specifically mandate travel insurance for short-term tourists, considering the high cost of medical care inside the country, it’s highly advisable to have insurance coverage during your stay.

In essence, if you’re backpacking around Japan , having the best travel insurance for Japan ensures peace of mind, allowing you to immerse in the culture worry-free.

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Healthcare in Japan

The Japanese healthcare system is top-notch, with some of the world’s most advanced medical technologies and practices. Both public and private healthcare facilities maintain high standards, and English-speaking medical staff are available in urban areas.

However, medical treatment in Japan can be hazardously expensive for tourists. A simple doctor’s visit can range from ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 ($50 – $75). Hospitalization and surgeries can run into several thousand dollars.

For tourists, it’s essential to have travel insurance that covers any potential medical expenses, allowing you to access the best healthcare services without burning a hole in your pocket.

Crime in Japan

Japan boasts some of the lowest crime rates globally. Violent crimes are rare, and streets are safe, even late at night. My friend even left an expensive jacket on a park bench only to find it still there several hours later.

However, like any other tourist destination, petty crimes like pickpocketing in crowded places or thefts can occur sometimes.

While Japan is quite safe , having travel insurance that covers loss of valuables can be a lifesaver, ensuring that lost items don’t ruin your trip.

Issues Facing Travellers in Japan

While Japan offers an impeccable travel experience, there are issues tourists should be aware of:

• Natural Disasters : Japan is prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons. These can lead to travel disruptions.
• Language Barrier : Despite the prevalence of English, language can still be a barrier, especially in rural areas. This can make navigating medical emergencies tricky.
• Lost Passports or Valuables : While rare, losing essential documents can be a hassle.

Popular Activities in Japan and Their Associated Risks

Temple Hopping : Touring ancient temples and shrines is my favourite activity. However, some are located on hills or require extensive walking.

This is a relatively sage activity unless you anger one of the gods! Then you need to be mindful of accidents due to falls, especially in crowded places or during festivals.

Skiing and Snowboarding : Areas like Hokkaido are popular for winter sports so Skiing-related injuries do occur every season. Note that not all insurance policies cover winter sports, so checking beforehand is essential.

City Exploration : Roaming cities like Tokyo and Osaka, using their intricate metro systems. Crowded trains can be overwhelming, leading to stress, or loss of belongings.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

From what we’ve observed, the majority of travel insurance policies in Japan typically encompass the following:

• Emergency Medical Treatment for Accidents & Illnesses
• Personal Belongings and Luggage Coverage

Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation

Non-medical emergency evacuation.

• Coverage for Trip Cancellation
• Protection for Trip Interruption

We believe these elements are pivotal when comparing insurance options. However, we won’t delve into the details of each aspect here.

Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses

Emergency Medical costs are perhaps the single most important aspects of any travel insurance policy. If you have an accident or become seriously ill with a tropical illness, you may want to rest easy knowing that the medical costs and Doctors bills will be taken care of.

Many of you out there have probably never actually seen a medical bill. However, we have seen too many for our liking and believe us, they can get very expensive very quickly.

A friend of mine was once charged $10,000 for a leg infection in Costa Rica. Even 2 days in a Thai hospital cost him nearly $2,000.00! Thankfully he was insured on both occasions.

Pre-existing medical and health conditions may not be covered under this or they may be covered for an additional premium. Ideally, Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical insurance should offer at least $100,000.00 of coverage but some run into the millions. If you are visiting Japan, then do have a serious think about this.

Baggage and Personal Property

Coverage for luggage and personal belongings safeguards the worth of your bags and their contents. It’s most frequently utilized for misplaced luggage (and lost luggage was at all time high last year).

Many policies further extend this protection to include theft that occurs at your destination, which is especially valuable if you’re unfortunate enough to be robbed during your trip.

The coverage limits can differ across policies. Yet, it’s uncommon for the maximum coverage to surpass $1000, with individual item limits usually ranging between $250 to $500.

For many travelers, this might suffice. But if you’re journeying with expensive electronics like laptops or cameras, or specialized equipment like golf clubs, it might be worth considering additional gadget insurance.

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Emergency evacuation covers the cost of sending you back to your home country in stressful circumstances.

Let’s say that the above mentioned tropical illness you catch is a very nasty one, and the decision is taken to send you home for further treatment; this will take care of the high costs of flying you home on a drip. 

Repatriation is the cost of sending your remains home in the rare event that you die on your trip. Repatriation costs are not a burden I would want to leave to my family.

Whilst this is thankfully rare, I do come across Facebook or “Go Fund Me” campaigns for somebody’s body to be flown home.

Non-medical Emergency Evacuation is when you have to be evacuated because of some sudden crisis. 

Examples are the outbreak of war/civil unrest and natural disasters that decimate infrastructure such as the South Asian Tsunami of 2006 or one of the earthquakes which do strike Japan.

In more recent times, the Corona COVID-19 outbreak created the biggest international emergency evacuation situation ever. (FYI – it straddled both the medical and non-medical evacuation boundaries).

Emergency evacuation insurance covers the costs of having to book an emergency flight home ( which can be seriously expensive) and will also cover accommodation costs if you end up being flown to a random, “safe” country rather than going straight home.

Trip Cancellation

Having to cancel an adventure that you were truly excited for is painful. However, being left out of pocket just makes it worse.

Trip Cancellation insurance can help you to recover the ‘non-refundable costs’ of your trip such as flight and hotel costs. Visa’s are also in this category.

To clarify, you can’t claim this simply because you changed your mind about the trip or fell out with your travel buddy. Proper cancellation reasons are things like sickness, family emergencies, bereavement, natural disaster and war – you get the gist.

Bearing in mind how much many some travellers spend on their dream Japan trip, this cover is one worth having in your back pocket.

Trip Interruption

Trip Interruption is when something goes wrong, even interrupts, and you have additional costs to pay because of it.

One example, when your pre-paid hotel falls down and you are forced to book another one. Another example is when your flight home is cancelled and you need a few extra nights at your hotel.

The above are what we consider to be the basic, bare-bones of travel insurance policies. However, some policies do offer a few more aspects to them. The very best Japan travel insurance policies may also include the following:

Adventure Sports and Activities

Please note that adventure sports and activities are not covered by all travel insurance policies. The definition of adventure sports and activities really does vary between providers but for example, can include:

• Trekking (altitude is usually a factor here)
• Swimming with Whales
• Improvised football games….

If you are going to be doing anything remotely physical or outdoorsy on your trip, then it may be sensible to check that your insurance provider is covering it. Broken jaws hurt enough without having high medical bills attached to them.

Accidental Death and Dismemberment

Accidental Death & Dismemberment cover doesn’t cover any travel related expenses as such but instead it basically provides you (or your next of kin) with monetary compensation in the event that something happens to you.

If you die, your loved ones get a payout. Or, if you lose a digit, YOU get a payout. I mean, how much is a finger really worth to you anyway?

It’s kind of like having a bit of life cover attached to your travel insurance.

“Well dear, I’m afraid there is good new and bad news. The bad news is that your parents both died on their trip to Japan. The good news is that you get $10k!”

Gear and Electronics Cover

Some insurance policies do cover electronic gadgets, but others do not. Those that do, sometimes charge an additional fee and they also usually limit the maximum item value.

If you only travel with a phone or a tablet then your travel insurer may well cover it entirely. However, if you’re travelling with a quality laptop , then you may wish to consider obtaining gadget cover.

Personally, I have had separate gadget cover in place on my trusty MacBook Pro for years now.

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While it might appear that all travel insurers are the same, they each bring unique offerings to the table. Some provide more affordable rates, while others prioritize extensive coverage. There are insurers known for their stringent claims process, and there are those celebrated for their fairness and assistance.

Travel insurance – consistently inconsistent. We cannot, and should not, declare one as the superior choice. Insurance is intricate, with policies crafted based on vast data and numerous factors.

The best travel insurance hinges on your destination, travel time, and most crucially, your personal requirements. An insurer perfect for one journey might not suit another.

In the following section, we spotlight several travel insurance providers we’ve personally utilized over the years.

SafetyWing are a relatively new player in the travel insurance space but are already making big waves. They specialise in cover for digital nomads and they offer open ended cover on a monthly subscription basis.

Because they primarily cover digital nomads, they don’t offer much in the way of trip cancellation or delay so do take that into consideration.

However, SafetyWing really excels on the health side of travel insurance, covering dental and some complimentary treatments. In fact they even allow young children to be covered for free. 

If cancellation and delay is not a concern for you or if you will be spending some considerable time on your trip, then consider SafetyWing travel insurance .

• Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses – $250,000
• Baggage and Personal Property – $3000
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation – $100,000
• Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation – $10,000
• Trip Cancellation -$0
• Trip Interruption – $5000

If you need more information, or want to get a quote, then you can visit the website for yourself.

World Nomads

World Nomads have been insuring backpackers for 20 years now. Its a backpacker travel insurance company, and their policies cover long way travel on one way tickets, trips to multiple countries, and a whole lot of adventure activities.

These guys are well used to dealing with backpackers like us, and they are regularly recommended by travel bloggers and industry insiders. We love them.

They offer 2 different policies depending on your needs. The Standard Plan is standard & the Explorer Plan covers a whole host of high risk, high fun activities.

World Nomads are also one of the few travel insurers who will write you a policy after starting your trip. The one downside for us is that they don’t cover Pakistan.

Let’s look at the maximum coverage amounts with both the Standard & Explorer plan.

• Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses -$100,000/$100,000
• Baggage and Personal Property – $1000/$3000
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation – $300,000/$500,000
• Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation – $25,000/$25,000
• Trip Cancellation -$2500/$10,000
• Trip Interruption – $2500/$10,000

If you want more info or to get a quote then visit the World Nomads site for yourself and take a look.

The savvy fin-tech insurer Faye provides whole-trip travel coverage and care that brings out the best in each journey with industry-leading technology that enables smarter and smoother assistance with faster claims resolutions. Their excellent app-based travel insurance covers your health, your trip and your gear all via an app that provides real-time proactive solutions, quick reimbursements and 24/7 customer support.

If you ever do need to make a claim, then you simply log in to the app and the claim will be assessed super quickly from anywhere in the world! My friend made a claim and was able to manage everything directly on the app. She was even able to purchase ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ Insurance that allows you to quite literally cancel for any reason, and be refunded up to 75% of non-refundable bookings.

Best of all, if the claim is successful then the funds will be immediately credited to the smart wallet on your phone or device and ready for you to spend.

Columbus Direct

Named after one of history’s greatest (and most divisive explorers), Columbus Direct also specialise in insuring adventure-hungry explorers like us. They have been providing award-winning insurance for 30 years.

What we like about this plan is that it does cover small amounts of personal cash. However, Gadget Cover is not available.

Columbus Direct actually offers a number of different travel insurance plans. Below we have focused on 1 of these and have set out the coverage amounts for the Globetrotter plan.

• Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses – $1,000,000
• Baggage and Personal Property – $750
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation – $1,000,000
• Non-Medical Emergency Evacuation – $0
• Trip Cancellation -$1,000
• Trip Interruption (“Catastophe”) – $750

If you need more information or want to get a quote, then you can visit the website for yourself.

Iati Seguros

Iati Seguros is a Spanish based travel insurance company who we have personally used and loved. You will notice that they provide competitive cover amounts for the key travel insurance areas, and are competitively priced. So far we have heard nothing, but good things about them.

They also offer multiple ones, but we have focused on the Standard Plan although we wholly encourage checking out all plans for yourself to identify the best one for your needs.

Standard Plan

• Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expenses – $200,000
• Baggage and Personal Property – $1000
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation – 100% of cost
• Trip Cancellation -$1,500
• Trip Interruption – 100% of cost

Insure My Equipment

Insuremyequipment.com does precisely what the name suggests. They are an online insurer for expensive equipment (like camera gear & gold clubs). You can use them to get specific pieces of gear insured but please bear in mind this policy is only for your specified gear.

An Insure My Equipment policy works well in combination with other travel insurance. Insure My Equipment policies are an excellent choice for professionals and backpackers with more $0000’s worth of camera equipment, expensive laptops, or fishing rods.

I also know a few travelling musicians and DJs who use these guys so you are in cool company.

Choosing the right travel insurance for your Japan holiday is like choosing a pair of hiking boots – it’s something only you can do by looking at your budget, your needs, and looking at what feels right for you.

You need to work out how much your trip is worth, how much equipment you plan to take and what activities you intend to engage in.

Naturally, you should evaluate your budget – considering both what you’re willing to spend on coverage and what you can bear to lose if you need to file a claim.

At times, a cost-effective backpacker insurance in Japan may suffice, while in other instances, investing a tad more could be beneficial.

If the insights in this article don’t guide your decision, then my efforts over the past 5 hours might’ve been in vain!

Japan is undeniably a traveler’s delight. But, as with any trip, it’s always wise to be prepared for the unexpected. And, investing in comprehensive travel insurance for Japan allows you to enjoy every moment, knowing you’re covered for unforeseen events.

The Japan travel insurers we mentioned here are just a small selection of the many available. Hopefully one of them answers your needs but if not there are others out there.

We hope you found this Japan travel insurance guide helpful. If so please let us know by leaving a comment below.

Aiden Freeborn

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7 Best Japan Travel Insurance Plans for US Citizens in 2024

Updated on January 10, 2024 by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

• SwiftScore Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Japan travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE JAPAN

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

BEST  WEBSITE FOR

Comparing Policies

• Compare dozens of the best Japan travel insurance policies from all the major providers in one place
• Easily filter for the features you want and get support from their award-winning customer service team
• Founded in 2013, TravelInsurance.com has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers find affordable insurance coverage

BEST Policy  FOR

Fast Claims

• Super fast claims via their 100% digital platform with a helpful mobile app
• Faye makes it easy to add-on coverage for vacation rentals, adventure/extreme sports, pet emergencies, and “cancel for any reason” at competitive prices
• Underwritten by Crum & Forster, Faye is known for its exceptional customer support, with 4.8/5 stars on Trustpilot

• SwiftScore Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

BEST POLICY FOR

Travelers Aged 55+

• Pre-existing medical conditions are covered for a reasonable fee and they offer “cancel for any reason” as an add-on
• $2,000 COVID quarantine coverage available w/ Safe Travels Voyager plan
• Founded in 1998 and underwritten by Nationwide and GBG Insurance

BEST WEBSITE FOR

Filtering Plans

• This comparison website has the most comprehensive filters especially for Covid-19 which helps you search for the specific benefits you need
• They have “Zero Complaint Guarantee” which promises a fair claims process
• Established in 2003, Squaremouth has consistently been recognized for it’s exceptional customer service

BEST POLICY FROM

An Established Brand

• Well rounded, inexpensive travel insurance plans from an established and top rated global insurance company
• AXA has plans that cover pre-existing conditions and their “Platinum” plan covers “cancel for any reason” with an optional add-on. They also offer helpful 24/7 Worldwide Travel Assistance Services
• Founded in 1959 and underwritten by Nationwide

Family Travel

• Their “Trip Interruption for any Reason” feature allows you to get a 75% reimbursement for any additional expenses if you decide to go home early from your trip
• They have a variety of insurance products to suit any travel needs
• Founded in 1993 and underwritten by Nationwide Insurance

$521 Per Year

Long-term Travel

• Ideal for digital nomads and long-term travel, available to anyone anywhere
• Scored lower because short-term travel coverage isn’t as robust as competitors
• Founded in 2018 and is underwritten by Lloyds of London

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON?

Japan travel insurance FAQs

What is the best travel insurance company.

Currently, there are 22 trusted and well-established travel insurance providers. The best way to determine which can offer you the best plan for your vacation to Japan is to use a comparison website. I like Withfaye .com since it only features policies from the most reputable companies and has good customer service. I also find their filters helpful in sorting through plans to determine which ones suit my needs.

How long will my Japan travel insurance plan be valid?

This depends on the type of plan that you purchase. Single-trip travel insurance will cover you from when you leave home for your vacation to Japan until you get home. That said, policies that do not include trip cancellation coverage are called International Medical policies. These plans often provide coverage for 1 year, but some you can renew for up to 3 years. Annual travel insurance plans provide medical care and evacuation coverage for multiple trips within the space of a year.

I’m healthy and in shape. Do I still need trip insurance?

Regardless of how healthy or fit you may be, trip insurance protects you financially against unforeseen events and accidents, such as injuries, sudden illnesses, trip cancellations, and lost, stolen, or damaged luggage. Having the right policy in place before you leave on your vacation to Japan will put you at ease, knowing that your investment in your trip is covered.

Where can I find the cheapest trip insurance plan?

I’ve noticed that the cheapest plan doesn’t always suit a traveler’s insurance needs. Therefore, I recommend using a comparison site like Withfaye.com and applying the necessary filters to determine the best-priced policy that meets your coverage requirements.

What is Trip Interruption coverage, and how does it work?

Trip Interruption applies to unexpected events that lead to you having to end your vacation early and go home. These are usually significant incidents, such as terrorist attacks, termination from your job, natural disasters, or the passing, illness, or injury of your or any other traveler insured on your policy. Your Trip Interruption benefits are calculated based on your “total trip cost” (see the next FAQ below) and become active as soon as your Japan vacation begins, which is why trip insurance providers classify them as “post-departure” benefits.

How is “total trip cost” defined when it comes to insurance?

Travel insurance companies calculate your Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption benefits based on your “total trip cost,” so you must list it correctly on your policy application. For this reason, never list your total trip cost below what it is to get a cheaper plan. If you do not list it accurately, you will be deemed ineligible for the benefits should you ever need them. To calculate “total trip cost,” add up the full cost for your prepaid, non-refundable expenses for your Japan trip. These include airfare, cruise fees, hotels, ground transportation, retreats, tours, event tickets, activities, classes and other entertainment. Remember to factor in everything you’ve paid for in advance, for which you cannot get a 100% refund should you need to cancel. Also, you must include any penalties you’d incur if you cancel, regardless of whether you prepaid or not.

Does travel insurance coverage extend to the death of a relative?

This will depend on the travel insurance policy you decide to purchase. Some plans offer more comprehensive coverage than others. For example, with the cheapest plans, your provider may not offer bereavement benefits if the cause of the death is a pre-existing condition or suicide. On the other hand, many policies with higher rates will reimburse you, irrespective of the reason for death. Always read the full details of any plan before purchasing to ensure it will give you the coverage you need and want. You will also want to look into how each travel insurance company defines “covered relatives.” Do “covered relatives” include grandparents? In-laws? Siblings? Aunts and uncles? What about pets? Be sure you understand this before you buy a policy, as it differs between providers.

Will travel insurance protect me against vacation rentals that go wrong?

Depending on your trip insurance plan and provider, you may be eligible for Trip Interruption or Trip Cancellation benefits in such situations. Remember that the more expensive policies will generally cover it. For added protection, you can buy a “Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) upgrade package, which will reimburse 50-75% of the cost.

Most common problems while traveling in Japan and how to avoid them:

Travelers in Japan have much less to worry about with respect to illnesses than they would if they were vacationing in tropical and subtropical destinations. Typical ailments usually include the flu, the common cold, and food poisoning. Be aware that the summer is monsoon season, which means hot, humid, and rainy weather. Stay hydrated and well-rested. Otherwise, you run the risk of fainting and experiencing heat stroke. Should you come down with any illness, you can rest easy knowing that Japan has a world-class medical system. Depending on where you are in the country, you may want to have an oral translation app on your phone. You can also visit Japan Hospital Search , which provides helpful information about Japanese medical services and “International Hospitals” throughout the country.

Traveling around Japan is safe and convenient. That said, most tourist-related accidents and injuries are commonplace, such as tripping and falling, car accidents (they drive on the left side of the road) or any injuries resulting from adventure or outdoor activities. When it comes to the latter, it’s worth noting that the Japanese are very thorough when it comes to heeding safety protocols.

Japan consistently ranks within the top 10 safest countries in the world. Muggings are very uncommon. In fact, the Japanese have such tremendous regard for other people’s possessions that they quickly turn them into the police or a business’ lost and found. That said, it’s always good to be aware of your belongings, no matter where you are.

Emergency resources for Japan

Phone numbers.

To reach the police in Japan, dial 112. To contact fire, ambulance, and emergency services, dial 119. Since you may have difficulty getting an English speaker, here is a handy guide that shares how to communicate your problem in Japanese, including a pronunciation key.

US embassy or consulate details

The US has an embassy in Tokyo. There are also consulates in Fukuoka, Nagoya, Naha, Osaka, and Sapporo. Their addresses, phone numbers, and information about citizen services are all available on the website .

Other local knowledge that is helpful for travelers:

Accommodations.

Japan offers travelers a wide selection of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets. From international and Japanese luxury hotels to business hotels, traditional Japanese inns (ryokan) , hostels, capsule hotels , and vacation rentals. One thing that most tourists in Japan can be caught off-guard by is that hotels charge by night and by person too. The same is true for ryokan, but it seems to make more sense since your stay includes meals. I mention this just in case you are traveling as a couple or family since it might make more sense to book a vacation rental. Ryokan are scattered about the countryside and in popular mountain towns. Ryokan perpetuate one of the most admirable qualities of traditional Japanese culture: omotenashi (ensuring the customer comes first). Most have tatami mat rooms where guests sleep on elegant and comfortable Japanese mattresses, but some also offer western-style rooms. They are known for serving guests exquisite local and seasonal food, typically in the form of kaiseki, a multi-course meal of small plates. Locals and visitors love onsen ryokan, which are ryokan with natural hot spring baths. They offer guests calm and soothing environments to soak in the various baths. However, you must observe strict onsen etiquette, so be sure to study before arriving . The most important thing to remember is that most onsen prohibit people with tattoos from using any public baths. (Some rooms come with private baths.) This is because the Japanese have long associated tattoos with those involved in organized crime. And since one must get fully naked at onsen, even those with the tiniest body art will be asked to leave. Nevertheless, more and more onsen are now accepting guests with tattoos, so if this is you, a quick internet search will yield plenty of options.

Communication

You can easily find high-speed internet in all major Japanese cities and airports. Additionally, all Japan Rail East and West trains offer up to 3 free hours of WiFi service. Furthermore, as do many parts of Tokyo, downtown Kyoto has free public WiFi. You can check out the availability map and login instructions here . Finally, if you can’t seem to find a nearby WiFi connection, Mcdonald’s and Starbucks locations throughout Japan will let you get online for free. As for your accommodation, always determine in advance whether it has free WiFi access. Many places, even major hotels, charge for the service. If you need consistent and reliable internet access, consider renting a WiFi hotspot at the airport upon arrival. Using online calling and messaging apps that can run off WiFi is much more affordable than using an international roaming plan from your US-based mobile carrier. That said, if your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a Japanese SIM card at the airport.

Japan is a predominantly cash-based society, so having plenty of it on hand is essential for your visit to Japan. The country’s currency is the yen. The Japanese pronounce it ‘en’ (silent y), whose currency symbol is ¥. They use a mix of coins and bills. The smallest denomination for banknotes is ¥1,000. The other most frequently used denominations are ¥5,000 and ¥10,000. Unlike in the US, where we have separate names for our bills (dollars) and our coins (cents), in Japan, they have only one word for both notes and coins (yen). You will find ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥50, ¥100, and ¥500 coins. If you don’t want pounds of loose change filling your pockets or floating around your bag daily, I recommend bringing a coin purse. While many businesses throughout the country do not accept credit and debit cards, ATMs abound. You will find them at bank branches and in thousands of 7-11s and post offices across the country (Japan Post). Withdrawing cash with your American debit card will get you the best exchange rate, even when factoring in bank fees. Remember to notify your US bank of your travel dates for Japan before leaving home. If you don’t, you risk having your card blocked for “suspicious activity.”

Food & Drink

Japan is known worldwide for its healthy and tasty cuisine ( washoku ). From a US$5 bowl of ramen to a several-course Michelin-starred meal, there are plenty of options for all budgets and preferences. During your time in the “Land of the Rising Sun,” be sure to try some of the favorite national dishes, including sushi and sashimi, okonomiyaki , kare-raisu (curry rice), ramen, tempura , udon and soba noodles, gyoza , mochi (rice cakes) and more. National drinks include matcha , sake , amazake , shochu and umeshu . 

Remember that most meals come with chopsticks; if you order a soup or curry, expect a meal-appropriate spoon. Forks and knives are sometimes available, particularly in restaurants in large cities popular among tourists, such as Tokyo, Kyoto or Osaka. Don’t be shy to ask! Knowing how to use chopsticks will make your life easier, so consider practicing before you leave for your vacation in Japan. For restaurant etiquette, see the Local Customs section below.

You can’t mention Japanese cuisine without talking about the tens of thousands of convenience stores ( konbini ) that offer a bounty of pre-made meals that go far beyond the greasy pizza slices and bags of chips typical of those in the US. From freshly made sandwiches to onigiri , bento boxes , sushi, smoothies, parfaits, salads and steamed chicken, you can eat well and cheaply by making a quick stop at the nearest 7-11, Lawson or FamilyMart. 

Vending machines are even more prolific than convenience stores, which total well into the millions. While Japanese vending machines sell everything from batteries to condoms, food and drink-centric machines dominate. You can purchase anything from fruit and vegetables to hot meals, hot drinks, sushi, milk, sake, beer, sandwiches, ice cream, snacks, instant ramen and eggs. 

Just note that vending machines all tend to be in Japanese, so you may need to ask a passerby for help. Simple pointing and showing them your money should be enough to get someone to help you. To be safe, always have exact change, as many machines do not give change.

Getting Around

Japan is the land of punctual, fast and clean nationwide transportation with an incredible network of buses, trains and ferries. They make getting around the Land of the Rising Sun pleasant and efficient.

There are, of course, some caveats. Avoid using trains during rush hour (8-9:30 am and 5-7 pm) unless you enjoy squeezing into trains like sardines in a can. Another thing to be mindful of is that the last trains in Tokyo usually run between midnight and 1 am. If you need to catch two or more trains back to your accommodation, get on the first one by 11 pm, so you don’t miss your transfer. Finally, always know when the last train is, wherever you are, or you risk having to fork out a significant amount of money on a taxi.

Also, you may notice pink signs plastered to the train platforms with times listed on them. These designate that the train car (usually the last) is only for women (and children) during the specified hours. Due to the problem of women getting groped on packed trains, the government and private train companies stepped up to create this safe alternative. 

Bullet trains, known as shinkansen , are the quickest way to travel between the country’s largest cities. You can reach nearly every populated part of Japan with local buses. Moreover, long-distance “ highway buses ” also offer that same level of connectivity but at a much slower pace and lower price. 

Since Japan is a nation of islands, its ferry network is extensive. Ferries transport people, bicycles and cars. It costs approximately ¥100 per hour of travel time to bring a bike onboard. The price for transporting a car includes the driver’s fare but not for other passengers. While ferries may seem appealing, finding English-speaking staff, including ticketing agents, can be challenging. You can check a complete national listing for ferries here .

Of course, if you’re comfortable driving on the left side of the road and feeling adventurous, renting a car can be a fun option instead of mass transit if you’re in Hokkaido or Okinawa. Otherwise, be prepared to move about on highways that lack scenery at very slow speeds. Even though rental car fees are reasonable, finding parking can be a challenge, not to mention the steep tolls and parking fees you’ll need to pay. 

It’s safer and simpler to rent cars at large railway stations than at the airport or in major cities since navigating one’s way through confusing urban highways and countless on- and off-ramps can be stressful. To drive in Japan, you will need your US driver’s license and an International Driver’s Permit, which you can apply for via mail or at your local AAA office . 

While you can book rental cars through international companies such as Hertz, Avis or Budget, you’ll most likely pick up your vehicle from a local partner company (as noted on your reservation). You will get a better rate if you book directly with one of the many popular Japanese companies like Nissan Rentacar, Toyota Rentacar, Nippon Rentacar, and more.

The official language of Japan is Japanese. Foreigners often find Japanese grammar confusing, but it’s simpler than English. For example, there is no difference between singular and plural nouns. And unlike most European languages, no feminine and masculine articles (for nouns) require memorization. Additionally, there are only a few exceptions to the verb and adjective conjugation rules, making it as straightforward as possible. Nevertheless, Japanese speakers adjust their words and expressions to suit the status of the person they speak with. This includes choosing the appropriate pronouns since, for example, there are multiple options for “I” or “you” based on the status and relationship of the people involved. Moreover, people use different language when speaking with their bosses or strangers as they do with their friends. For instance, in many restaurants and hotels, staff speak keigo, an honorific style of language, to their guests. Written Japanese is a bit more complex, as there are three different character sets. The easiest is hiragana, followed by katakana and kanji, the most difficult. Kanji comprises many thousands of Chinese characters. The good news is that pronunciation is relatively easy. The biggest question on tourists’ minds is whether they’ll be able to get by without knowing Japanese. The answer, of course, depends on where you plan to travel in Japan. If you’re sticking to the most popular cities, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima, you should be OK. However, arm yourself with some essential Japanese words and phrases outside these cities. Either way, doing your best to use even a tiny bit of the language is a great sign of respect. Here are a few to get you started:

• konnichiwa (こんにちは) – hello / good afternoon
• ohayo- gozaimasu (おはようございます) – good morning
• konbanwa (こんばんは) – good evening
• sayo-nara (さようなら) – goodbye
• hai (はい) – yes
• ee-eh (いいえ) – no 
• mizu (水) – water
• kohii (コーヒー) – coffee
• dorippu kohii (ドリップコーヒー) – drip coffee
• kafe rate (カフェラテ) – café latte 
• esupuresso (エスプレッソ) – espresso
• soy miruku (ソイミルク) – soy milk
• kudasai  (ください) – please
• ____ o kudasai (__をください) – I would like____, please.
• arigato gozaimasu (ありがとうございます)  – thank you
• sumimasen (すみません) – excuse me
• gomen-nasai (御免なさい) – sorry
• wakarimasen (わかりません) – I don’t understand.
• O-tearai wa doko desu ka? (お手洗いはどこですか?) – Where is the restroom/toilet?

Younger Japanese adults and anyone working in tourism will likely be more conversant in English than the average person walking down the street. Sometimes, if you ask a random Japanese person a question or for help, they might wave you off, not because they are trying to be rude, but because they are embarrassed about not being able to speak English or knowing the answer to your question. Their response is more about saving face than anything. Be aware that when Japanese people speak English, their Ls and Rs often sound similar, so be patient and appreciative of their efforts.

Local Customs & Other Essential Information

Japan is one of the most polite countries you will ever visit, and the people place much importance on having proper manners. Japan’s culture revolves around trying not to impose on or inconvenience others. As a result, being mindful of your surroundings at all times is necessary. A typical example of rude behavior is blocking walkways and doorways with your luggage or your body. The Japanese also view walking and eating as inconsiderate (unless you’re at a street food market). Smoking is quite commonplace in Japan. Interestingly, you can smoke in many restaurants but smoking outdoors is restricted to designated areas where ashtrays are provided. Public displays of affection are also very uncommon, even amongst the younger generations. You may occasionally see a couple holding hands, but this is not the norm. Don’t be surprised if you see a couple standing and waiving on a train platform less than a foot from each other. Therefore, keep your public displays of affection to a minimum and know that kissing in public is an absolute no-no. Another practice that strikes American visitors as odd is the apparent absence of trash cans in public. Convenience stores, train stations, and designated recycling bins will have some. In general, people carry their trash with them until they can dispose of it at home or the office. You must follow specific rules when visiting Buddhist temples or Shinto Shrines. The first is not to take photographs inside any buildings. However, taking pictures on temple or shrine grounds is usually permitted. When in doubt, inquire with members of staff. Second, remove your shoes before entering temple buildings. If you are wearing a hat, you must remove that as well. Most temples and shrines have shoe racks. Be aware that you have to wear socks inside at all times. Third, dress conservatively since these are sacred sites cherished by the Japanese. Appropriate attire means wearing long pants or skirts (knees covered), shirts that cover the shoulders, and, if you’re wearing socks, make sure they are clean and presentable. Japanese dining etiquette also presents a whole other set of expectations and practices. Learning the basics will help you have a more pleasant experience. Culture requires you to formally thank your server or host (arigato gozaimasu) and show appreciation for the food and its presentation. You can also compliment your host by slurping your noodles and soup. Moreover, being polite in Japan means taking small, manageable bits, eating all of your food, and learning chopstick and drink-pouring etiquette . Be careful to avoid eating directly from communal plates (always bring the food to your plate), disassembling your meal, putting your elbows on the table or talking louder than the local patrons.

The Japanese do not tip. In fact, most consider it rude to do so. If you ever leave a tip on a table in a restaurant, your server or another staff member may run after you to give it back, thinking you forgot it. Some workers may reluctantly receive your tip, but only so they don’t have to explain why it’s culturally inappropriate or feel like they are being inconsiderate towards you. (Japanese speakers of English do not abound as they may in other Asian countries.) While the Japanese do not practice tipping, you may notice an extra charge on your bill (check) of ¥300-¥1,000 when you eat in restaurants or cafés, particularly in an izakaya (pub). This is known as a table charge or otoshidai. It’s similar to the service charges you often find added to your restaurant bills in other countries. You can usually tell if you will find a table charge on your check by whether or not your server brings you a small dish or snack upon being seated. Even though tipping is not something Japanese people do, the country has a strong gift culture. For example, if you plan to join a tour or a class, you may want to bring small gifts from home that are “American” to thank your guide or teacher. Doing so will be met with deep appreciation.

What to pack for Japan

Apart from Travel Insurance, we recommend you bring the following items for maximum health, safety and enjoyment of your trip to Japan.

A final note about travel insurance for Japan

I have spent dozens of hours researching travel insurance, including getting quotes and comparing coverage from all the most popular brands. Regardless of where you’re going I am confident that you will also find that Withfaye.com offers the best way to compare policies with the ideal combo of coverage and price.

I wish you and yours an incredible journey.

SwiftScore Ranking Methodology

• Average price for a 2-week vacation based on a 35-year-old California resident traveling to Japan with a $3,500 trip cost
• Coronavirus coverage
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR)
• AM Best rating of the underwriter
• Key policy details including cancellation, interruption, emergency medical evacuation, and baggage & personal effects
• Ease of sign up
• Policy language clarity
• User reviews

How To Choose Your Japan Travel Insurance (2024 Guide)

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: January 22, 2024

Wondering if you need Japan travel insurance?

It’s a question we often get and the quick answer to this question is YES.

Although chances are small that you will encounter any problems while traveling in Japan, it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

In this post, we answer a lot of questions you may have about travel insurance and healthcare in Japan.

We also compare two popular travel/medical insurances to see which is the best travel insurance for your Japan trip.

We retained SafetyWing and HeyMondo for this comparison because they’re available worldwide.  There’re certainly many more travel medical insurances but they’re usually only available in one country and it would obviously not be possible to discuss them all in this post.

Are you older than 69 but still feel far too young to stay at home? We are happy to hear that and couldn’t agree more! Many insurance policies only offer coverage up to age 69, but fortunately there are others as well. In this overview we included VisitorsCoverage . They offer coverage from age 14 days to 99 years.

Good preparation is very important when taking out travel medical insurance.

Therefore we do recommend comparing the prices and coverage of SafetyWing , HeyMondo , and VisitorsCoverage with other insurances that are available in your home country. 

We also did this and noticed that those insurances are usually more expensive than the ones we discuss here and they don’t necessarily offer better coverage. 

But first, let us take a look at some questions you might have about your health insurance in Japan.

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

We updated this post in February 2023.

Table of Contents

Is Healthcare Expensive in Japan?

Healthcare isn’t too expensive for Japanese residents since they have a national health insurance scheme.  This covers all Japanese nationals, although a small fraction do not enjoy this benefit.

As a foreigner, you will have to pay the full price if you haven’t taken out travel insurance.

When you get ill and need to seek medical help, or in the worst case, go to the hospital, the medical bill could turn out very expensive. 

Tourists pay at least double, and sometimes the fourfold of Japanese.

The website of Japan Health says the average cost for the first consultation at a clinic is between 20,000 and 50,000 yen ( 182 USD – 450 USD).

We have also heard stories about hospitals that won’t even treat you if you don’t have proof of insurance.

Does My Health Insurance Work in Japan?

This is another question that many people ask.

Many people think that their healthcare insurance covers them internationally.

Unfortunately, that’s not true.

Most regular health insurances stop at the border.

In some rare cases, care providers have partnered up with international insurance companies.

Although this is more the exception than the rule you could always contact your local insurance company to check if they provide coverage in Japan.

Make sure to request some proof of your health insurance if it provides cover for Japan.  Hospitals are often reluctant to treat foreigners if they’re not sure they have proper insurance.

Having proof of insurance is really crucial in Japan.  It will save you from a lot of trouble and it will ensure you get the care you need a lot faster. 

Is Having Japan Travel Insurance Worth The Cost?

Travel Insurance, like any other form of insurance, is something that you rather not need.

But you know you will kick yourself if you don’t have insurance at the moment that you need it.  

It’s all about peace of mind.

I learned my lesson in the United States.

I once had to pay high out-of-pocket expenses there because I was not properly insured and I don’t want to end up in the same scenario again. 

Healthcare in Japan is not as expensive as in the United States but the last thing you want to hear in the hospital is that they won’t start treating you before they have been able to swipe your credit card.  Certainly not in a life-threatening situation.

These days we always take out travel insurance before we leave on vacation.  Our advice is for you to do the same.  It’s absolutely worth the cost and you will be glad you did in case things go awry.

Good travel insurance doesn’t only cover medical costs but also things like theft and travel inconveniences.

As a result, it is not only useful if you have health problems, but it can also provide a more comfortable journey.

Document Everything

This is something that many people forget but it is crucial if you want to be reimbursed by your travel insurance.

You need to document everything that you may eventually want to be reimbursed.

This means you need to have receipts of costs you made regarding your accident or your illness. 

Keep all the paperwork and all the receipts and take pictures of it so you have an online backup.  You make your claim online so you will need a digital copy eventually anyway.

Remember, the more proof you have the better.

You should also keep the purchase receipts of your phone, laptop, camera gear and other valuables that you take with you when you travel.  In case they get lost or stolen you will need these as proof that you bought them (and for how much).

You will also need proof that you had them with you.  Therefore we recommend taking pictures of the contents of your bags or some pictures with your gear at your vacation destination.

Lastly, the insurance companies will ask for a police report in case of theft so don’t forget to stop by the police.

When To Buy Travel Insurance For Your Japan Trip?

Although all three insurance companies allow you to subscribe to their insurance when you’re already abroad (many don’t!), we recommend not waiting that long.

The insurance only covers things that happen after you’ve bought it. 

Therefore it’s best to buy your insurance as soon as your dates are fixed and you’ve bought your plane tickets.

HeyMondo and VisitorsCoverage both cover trip cancellations. If for some reason you need to cancel your trip after you’ve bought your tickets you know you’re covered and you will be reimbursed.

What To Look For In A Travel Insurance Policy For Japan?

Valid in japan.

First things first, it’s of course of utmost importance that Japan is covered by your travel insurance.

We know of no travel insurance that excludes Japan but obviously you should check this before you subscribe.

Pre-Trip Cancellation

Pre-trip cancellation is included in most but not all policies.  (It’s not included with SafetyWing)

We really advise taking out insurance where this is included as a trip to Japan can be rather expensive.

Although it’s not fun when you have to cancel your upcoming Japan trip, it’s even less fun when you cannot recover the money you already spent.

HeyMondo and VisitorsCoverage both cover trip cancellation. If for some reason you need to cancel your trip after you’ve bought your tickets you know you’re covered and you will be reimbursed.

Proof Of Insurance

As we already mentioned above, Japanese hospitals and clinics will often ask for proof of insurance before they start treatment. 

Therefore we advise you to double-check that the insurance plan will provide a document that clearly states that you are insured.  Carry this on you during your trip so that you can show it when required.

Medical Emergencies And Evacuation

This is, of course, the primary reason to take out Japan travel insurance.  This is a crucial aspect of your insurance policy.

Cheaper policies often have low limits. 

If you become hospitalized in countries such as Japan where the healthcare costs are relatively expensive you can quickly hit those limits and you would end up paying huge sums yourself despite your travel insurance.

When comparing different policies definitely check the limits on medical expenses, the areas of cover for emergency evacuations, cover for emergency dental work, etc.

If you take out travel insurance it’s better to pay slightly more for a good cover than a cheap alternative that lets you down when you need it.

We also advise you to carefully check the general exclusions.

Baggage And Personal Belongings

Although Japan is one of the safest countries we ever traveled to, theft can always happen.  You can also forget something or it can be damaged by accident. There are also occasions when the airline loses your luggage.

Good travel insurance also covers these things.  Make sure to check if this is included and up to what amount you can be compensated for loss or theft.

This is especially important if you are traveling with camera gear, a laptop, or other valuables.

Some insurances have an option to increase the coverage limit for an extra fee.  If you have expensive phones, cameras or other electronics it may be worthwhile to increase the limits if you want the amounts you receive to be anywhere near what you need to replace your goods.

Natural Disaster

Although chances are slim that something will happen while you are on holiday, Japan sometimes gets hit by an earthquake or a typhoon.

So we advise you to check what your travel insurance covers when a natural disaster happens.

Especially when you are traveling during August and September since this is the season that you have the biggest risk of seeing your travel plans ruined by a typhoon.

Dangerous Activities

Some activities are seen as dangerous and are excluded.

You can be amazed at what, at first glance, innocent activities are on this exclusion list in your travel insurance policy.

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of things that you can find excluded in some policies:  skiing, scuba diving, climbing (eg. Mt. Fuji ), snow scooter trips, and more.

Many of those activities are covered if they’re done as a guided tour but we advise, once you have fixed all your plans, to check them with your travel insurance policy to be sure you’re covered.

What’s The Best Travel Insurance For Japan

It’s not easy to point out the best travel insurance for Japan since a lot will depend on what’s important to you and the activities you want to do. 

When we looked for insurance ourselves, we came across the insurance of HeyMondo and SafetyWing. 

If you want even more options look at VisitorsCoverage , this a highly-rated insurance broker with a wide selection of policies for everybody aged 14 days to 99 years.

Both companies offer policies for a single trip, allow you to purchase or extend your policy while you are traveling and have 24/7 support.

HeyMondo Travel Insurance 

Heymondo was born with the mission to make travel insurance easy.

The company was established in February 2017 and currently, we already serve half a million travelers a year.

They not only take care of finding and offering you the insurance that best suits you, but they also provide you with all the support you need.

Pros And Cons Of HeyMondo

Below we list the pros and cons of HeyMondo travel insurance.

Pros Of HeyMondo

Available to everyone.

HeyMondo Travel Insurance plans cover people from all over the world, regardless of your country of residence.

Competitive Pricing

They provide a lot of coverage for a fair price.

You can choose between the HeyMondo Top and the slightly more expensive HeyMonodo Premium Package which has a higher coverage.

You can also opt for Medical coverage only.

You always get a detailed quote that clearly shows what’s covered.

Family Policies

Going on a family trip? No worries, their policies include coverage for families and children.

Easily Purchased

You can purchase your policy online in a few minutes.

You just need to choose between a single trip and multi trips in one year, fill out the country or countries you are traveling to, your country of residence, the start and end date of your trip, the number of travelers, and your email address.

After you have entered this information you immediately receive a detailed quote.

It couldn’t be easier. 

Can Be Purchased While You Are Already At Your Destination

Yes, you can purchase HeyMondo Travel Insurance while you are already at your destination.

The only thing you should bear in mind is that a 72-hour grace period will apply from the date of purchase until the insurance takes effect.

Just don’t forget to check the box that says “Already abroad” on the dates field.

A Wide Range of Adventure Activities

The Heymondo travel insurance plans already cover numerous adventure activities such as jet skiing, kayaking, snowmobiling, hiking and even trekking at an altitude below 3000 meters.

If you add the adventure sports add on a whole range of more adventurous sports such as white-water rafting, canyoning, diving, some underwater activities, horse riding, climbing, fencing, caving at depths of less than 150 meters, water skiing, fly surfing, kitesurfing, bicycle touring, mountain biking, quad biking, rafting, abseiling, bungee jumping, survival, trekking at altitudes of up to 5,000 meters and any activity of similar characteristics are included.

Carefully read the policy to see what is and isn’t included.

Note that skiing is never included.

24-Hour Assistance Services

Through the HeyMondo App, you can request assistance (via phone or chat) 24/7 at no cost.

Going On A Cruise

Are you making a cruise in Japan?

Then you can opt for the cruise add-on.

With this add-on, you are also covered while traveling on a cruise ship, for any medical assistance you may need on board.

Cons Of HeyMondo

Heymondo scores 4.3 on Trustpilot.

You can also find lots of bad reviews regarding just about every travel insurance company. 

This is mostly because those people have the wrong expectations about their insurance.  

They take out insurance, they don’t check the policy in detail, and they expect that they’re covered for everything.

We don’t want you to have a bad experience so we want to set those expectations straight. 

This is a list of things that are not covered and can be seen as negative for HeyMondo.

No Possibility To Upgrade Your Policy Once It Has Been Issued

You can’t upgrade your cover once the policy has been issued. 

No Possibility To Extend Your Policy Once It Has Been Issued

Only the Heymondo Long Stay insurance gives you the possibility to extend your coverage up to a maximum of 12 consecutive months.

If you have another type of single-trip insurance, you will have to take out new insurance for the dates that you are going to extend your trip.

Be careful to do so at least three days before the old policy expires since there is a 72-hour “grace period” until your new policy takes effect when buying when you are already abroad.

You May Have To Pay Extra For Certain Adventure Activities

If you plan on doing what is considered more extreme adventure activities, you may have to upgrade your travel policy to be covered.

Carefully check the policy to see what is and isn’t included.

When You Take Needless Risks You Aren’t Covered

HeyMondo covers a wide range of adventure activities but one condition is that you never put yourself at needless risk during these activities.

Drugs Or Alcohol Injuries And Illnesses Aren’t Covered

This is not different from any other insurance.  Drugs and alcohol are a big no. 

If you have an accident or injure yourself or somebody else when you are under the influence you will not be reimbursed.

Non-Emergency Treatment That Can Wait Until You Return Home

Inpatient treatment check-ups and continuing treatment of chronic conditions abroad is not covered.

Sexually transmitted diseases

Syphilis and AIDS are not covered.

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

This is also typical for all insurances. 

Any pre-existing medical conditions are not covered under this policy.

Ongoing Treatment At Home

The insurance only covers the costs abroad.  The costs of ongoing treatments once at home are no longer covered by your travel insurance.

Lower Coverage For Electronics

Electronic coverage is for your electronic equipment (laptop, tablet, camera, and the like and its accessories) up to 50% of the baggage coverage in case of theft, as well as for total or partial loss due to the carrier, or damage as a result of fire or assault. 

The limits are however on the low side and probably won’t be enough to cover the replacement costs if you’re traveling with expensive gear.

• Single trip: general limit of 69 years, except for trips lasting more than 30 days, which is lowered to 49 years.
• Long Stay general limit of 49 years.
• Annual multi-trip: general limit of 49.

HeyMondo Travel Insurance Conclusion

HeyMondo offers travel insurance at a fair price in line with the coverage they provide. 

Although already a lot of sports are included you can add the adventure sports add-on to get more coverage.

Get your free quote now: HeyMondo

SafetyWing Insurance 

SafetyWing also started in 2017.

SafetyWing’s travel medical insurance is underwritten by Tokio Marine, one the of largest and most solid insurance companies in the world.

This makes it a very reliable solution if you’re looking for trusted and affordable insurance. 

Even if something would happen to SafetyWing you would still be taken care of by Tokio Marine.

SafetyWing insurance can be taken out as regular travel medical insurance, with a start date and an end date. 

In addition, the company also provides a product for long-term travelers. 

They can subscribe to their insurance with monthly payments, similar to subscriptions to Netflix or Spotify.

Both plans are very flexible.  The regular plan can be taken out abroad and can be extended abroad.  The subscription plan can be started and stopped anytime.

SafetyWing is available to people in 180 countries.

Pros And Cons Of Safety Wing

Pros of safety wing , available to almost anyone from any country.

Almost anyone can purchase SafetyWing travel medical insurance.

Note that if you are from Iran, Syria, North Korea, or Cuba ( or have Cuba as your citizenship) it is not possible.

You also can’t buy SafetyWing insurance when your address is in Florida.

If your address is in Canada, Australia or Washington, Maryland or New York you must be physically located outside of the country or state to purchase insurance.

They cover a lot at a low price.

If you’re under the age of 50 you may find that SafetyWing offers much better value compared to other insurance companies including HeyMondo.

Above that age, SafetyWing becomes much more expensive and a lot less attractive.

If you travel to the US you will also need to pay an additional fee which makes them a little less attractive for these trips.

By default, SafetyWing shows a quote for 28 days according to their subscription plan.  You can add an end date in the second step and then you will receive a proportional price. 

The pricing model is exactly the same, if you travel for 14 days your quote will be half of the price of the 28-day subscription model.

Note that you always have a $250 deductible and that the maximum limit of coverage is lower than with HeyMondo.

Easy Subscription Process And Flexible

The subscription process is simple and straightforward.  

By default, SafetyWing proposes a monthly subscription plan, if you want a fixed end date for your policy you add it in the second step. 

Next you the destinations where you’re traveling.

You only need to add the first destination for your coverage to be valid worldwide but SafetyWing recommends adding all destinations so they can issue visa letters if you would need them.

Next, you add the details of the persons who will be traveling with you.  2 children up to 9 years old can travel with you for free.

That’s all it takes.  Your date of birth and your home country is stored in your profile so you only need to input them once.

You can purchase your travel insurance before or even during your trip.   

Long-term subscribers can pause their plan if they interrupt their trip to say hi to friends and family at home and restart it once they fly back abroad.

Covers a Wide Range Of Adventure Activities

SafetyWing does cover a wide range of sports activities. 

They cover the most common sports such as kayaking, skiing, scuba diving, etc. 

Adrenaline junkies who plan on doing more extreme sports might find that their activity of choice is not covered.

There’re other minor differences such as this example regarding hiking, HeyMondo covers hiking without paying extra up to 3.000 meters, and SafetyWing up to 4.500 meters. (which is enough to climb Mt. Fuji) 

You can find a complete overview of sports that are included and excluded in the FAQ on their website.

You Can Get Travel Insurance For A Travel Companion And/ Or Children

It’s easy to take out travel insurance for the people who are traveling with you, no matter if they are family or friends. 

All can be done in 1 go.

2 children under 10 (1 per adult) can be included with no extra cost under the condition that their parents are traveling with them.

The children must be at least 14 days old.

Claims Can Be Made Online

You can file a claim by filling out a claims form and uploading it together with photos or screenshots of receipts to WorldTrips’ online portal.

You can read full instructions on their  claims page  (log in to your SafetyWing account to access this page).

Cons Of SafetyWing

There are bad reviews about every travel insurance company but SafetyWing has a solid 4.3 ranking on TrustPilot . 

Better yet, this is not only for people who had no problems during their trip.  Also, people who had to file a claim shared positive reviews.

Here are some more things to consider before you take out insurance from SafetyWing:

High-Riks Sports Activities Are Not Covered

Most common sports are included but more adventurous sports are not.  Make sure to check the FAQ on their homepage to see if what you’re planning to do is included or not.

When you take needless risks you aren’t covered

Substance Abuse

This is not different from any other insurance.  Drugs and alcohol are a big no.  If you have an accident or injure yourself or somebody else when you are under the influence you will not be reimbursed.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases And All Diseases Related To HIV

These are not covered

Cancer Treatment

All forms of cancer/neoplasm are not covered

Pre-Existing Conditions

Any pre-existing medical conditions are not covered under the policy except charges resulting directly from an Acute Onset of these conditions.

No Coverage For Electronics

Electronics such as phones, laptops, and cameras are not covered.

At the moment personal belongings like electronics and cash are only covered if they are on lost checked luggage or if surrendered after kidnap or express kidnap.

Other than that there is no coverage at the moment.

Trip Cancellation Is Not Included But The Policy Has A Trip Interruption Provision

The policy has the Trip Interruption provision that can cover the cost of a one-way economy ticket back home when you need to cut short your trip after an unexpected death or fire in your house, however, reservations are out of policy terms.

Please see an excerpt of the policy below with more information: 

Make sure that costs such as non-refundable airplane tickets and non-refundable hotels are covered by other insurance.  To book those you could use credit cards that come with trip cancellation coverage.

$250 Deductible

A deductible is an amount the insured needs to pay before the insurance will pick up the tab. 

In this case, it means that if your hospital bill is $500, you would need to pay $250 yourself and SafetyWing will reimburse the other $250.

There is one deductible per certificate period.  The certificate period cannot be longer than 364 days.  Long-term subscribers who continue their subscription beyond the year get a new deductible in the new year.

The deductible does not apply to all aspects of the coverage.  Some treatments such as emergency dental care and urgent care come without a deductible. 

Check the full policy wording on the SafetyWing website for the exact details.

Not All US Citizens Can Buy SafetyWing Travel Insurance

If you are a U.S. Citizen and live in Washington, Maryland, or New York you can not be physically present in those locations when you purchase the insurance.

You will not be directed to an alternative site in this case, you just won’t be able to make the purchase.

You would need to leave the state, or country before you can purchase the insurance. 

SafetyWing Conclusion

SafetyWing is one of the newer kids on the block. 

Their travel medical insurance is cheap and although their coverage is not as extensive as those of other insurances it will be sufficient for most travelers and for the majority of trips to Japan.

SafetyWing would be our first choice for Japan but we can’t repeat this enough.  Don’t take out this insurance just because it’s cheap.  Make sure to verify if the coverage will be sufficient for the things you plan to do.

Get in touch with SafetyWing if there’s any doubt. 

If you mail or call you will also get a better idea of how fast and how professional they respond.

Get Your Free Quote Now: SafetyWing

VisitorsCoverage Travel Insurance

VisitorsCoverage is a travel insurance broker. We noticed that both HeyMondo and SafetyWing had 1 major flaw, namely the age limit of 69 years. That’s why we started looking for a good, reliable partner for travel insurance that you can still go to after that age. That’s how we found VisitorsCoverage.

On their website you can easily search for a good policy by entering your age, place of residence, and destination. You can choose from Medical Insurance & Trip Insurance. The first only covers medical emergencies during your trip while Trip Insurance goes further and will reimburse the costs of your trip if you need to cancel it. Trip Insurance is currently only available for US residents.

Pros And Cons of VisitorsCoverage

Pros of visitorscoverage, a wide selection of policies.

By collaborating with different parties, VisitorsCoverage can offer a wide range of policies to all kinds of travelers.

Almost no age restriction

While some policies have an age limit of 85 years most can be taken out by travelers up to the age of 99.

Will you be cruising around Japan?

At VisitorsCoverage you will find plans specifically tailored to cruisers.

Cruise Policies may be for you if you booked your flights separately from your cruise. They will reimburse the costs to still join your cruise in case your original flight was delayed or canceled. They also cover other typical cruise expenses like prepaid tours you may need to skip because you are ill and any medical assistance you may need on board.

The Travel Medical Plans can be purchased while you are already at your destination. Just know that anything that has happened before you purchased them will usually not be covered. (this is common for almost all insurance policies) That is why we recommend never waiting too long.

But if you have forgotten it anyway, you can always take out a travel medical plan while at your destination.

Cancel for any reason

Many policies allow for the addition of a Cancel for Any Reason option. Interruption for any reason is also available. It is expensive but it ensures that your plans remain completely flexible.

To add this option you need to subscribe your policy within 20 days of the first payment towards your trip and no later than 2 days prior to departure.

Easy to find the policy you need

Reviewers say it’s easy to find the policy you need and, if necessary, VisitorsCoverage’s experienced team was able to assist them through the process.

Policies can be extended

Most policies can be extended, just don’t wait till the very last minute and give it 2 days for everything to be taken care of.

Excellent reviews

VisitorsCoverage has a 4.6 rating on Google and a 4.8 rating on TrustPilot with over 5500 reviews.

Cons of VisitorsCoverage

Despite the high ratings of VisitorsCoverage at both Google and Trustpilot, you will still see that there are also a number of bad reviews, mainly about the handling of claims.

This is not uncommon for insurance-related matters and is due to a combination of causes. It is a fact that people are more likely to write a review when things do not go as planned.

It also stems from the fact that the small print of insurance policies regarding exclusions or reimbursement limits often causes dissatisfaction. Insurers are notorious for not paying unless they really have to.

We don’t want you to have a bad experience and therefore we recommend always reading all the information available that can be found. You can check the Plan Brochure, there’s a FAQ about each plan, and if you look up the policy on their site using the search feature you can usually find even more details about the policy.

I’ve also found that the Ask The Expert feature can be very helpful in checking specific details about the coverage.

Adventure Activities

VisitorsCoverage’s offering also includes policies suitable for more adventurous trips like skiing and snowboarding but we couldn’t find any that cover ski trips to Japan.

Trip Insurance only for US Citizens

Travel Medical Insurance is available to all but trip insurance is currently only available to those living in the United States.

If you have a longstanding health condition you will probably have experienced that it can be hard to find good travel insurance. VisitorsCoverage offers a number of policies that cover, even though with limits, pre-existing conditions but those are unfortunately only for travel to the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

VisitorsCoverage Travel Insurance Conclusion

VisitorsCoverage scores high grades and has many returning customers. As a travel insurance broker, they offer travel insurance from different providers. Their customers claim this is all done at a fair price in line with other similar policies. 

It’s easy to compare the different policies and they offer 24/7 chat support. Customer Service can also be reached by phone (during office hours), e-mail and WhatsApp.

Both HeyMondo and SafetyWing are good and trusted insurance companies that are open to the majority of people.

SafetyWing is remarkably cheaper than HeyMondo and it’s probably one of the cheapest options available on the market today.

You can do an incredible deal by taking out insurance from SafetyWing.

Above we already mentioned some of the reasons why this is the case and you have to weigh up the cheap price and the coverage.

Here’s a short recap of the most important differences: SafetyWing does not come with trip cancellation, they have a deductible of $250 dollars, cover lower expenses, and theft or loss of electronics is not covered.

There’s no need to pay for a Ferrari if all you need is a regular car.

If those are things you don’t need then SafetyWing is the perfect and reliable solution for you.

Otherwise, we advise you to opt for HeyMondo.

HeyMondo has tailor-made policies for each trip & traveler (short and long-term trips). They also cover medical expenses up to $10,000,000 USD and have no deductibles or out-of-pocket expenses. They also have a 50% cover for your electronics.

Lastly, VisitorsCoverage is a great broker to check for insurance if SafetyWing and HeyMondo didn’t work for you.

Remember that we have written this comparison to the best of our knowledge. We have used the information that was available at the time of writing.  We regularly check and update our articles but it is always possible that these policies have changed and are no longer in-line with what we have written.  It’s your responsibility to check the details of your travel policy.  This comparison is for informational purposes only and we cannot be held reliable if something is different from what we have written.

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Travel Insurance for Japan

Travel Team | May 10, 2024

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From the buzz of city life in Tokyo to the majestic views of Mount Fiji, there are many amazing places to visit in Japan. But before you book your trip, you’ll want to consider travel insurance options and learn more about what to expect when visiting Japan.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at options for travel insurance, requirements for traveling to Japan, and offer destination-specific travel tips so you can make the most of your trip.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Japan?

Travel insurance is not required to visit Japan. However, it’s still a smart idea to have in case of trip cancellation, lost luggage or medical emergency.

Should You Buy Travel Insurance for Japan?

Whether traveling to Japan or any other international destination, travel insurance is always recommended. Your domestic health insurance often does not cover you in another country. That means that if you get sick or hurt during your trip in Japan, you could have costly medical bills to pay out of pocket. Plus, you never know when an unexpected event could put the money you spent for your trip — from flights and hotels to shrine tours and sumo wrestling tickets — at risk.

Japan Travel Insurance Coverage Options

Seven Corners offers several plans that can be customized to meet your needs, whether you’re traveling internationally or in your own country. Coverage options can differ depending on the plan, specific benefits and add-ons you choose, and your state or country of residency. The travel insurance benefits below can be found in many of Seven Corners’ plans. Consider all of your options to best protect your trip to Japan.

Trip Cancellation

Seven Corners can reimburse you for the prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses you insured if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason. Covered reasons vary by plan, but they can include triggers such as an illness that prevents you from traveling or inclement weather, like a hurricane.

For the flexibility to cancel your trip for any reason, not just those listed in your plan document, consider adding optional Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage

Trip Interruption

An interruption often means you ended your trip and returned home early, but it can also include needing to start your trip late. Trip interruption benefits can reimburse you for the prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses you didn’t use if you must interrupt your trip for a covered reason. They can also cover transportation expenses resulting from a covered trip interruption.

For more flexibility to interrupt your trip and still be reimbursed, consider adding optional Interruption for Any Reason (IFAR) coverage . This allows you to interrupt your trip for any reason, such as not feeling safe at your destination or simply changing your mind about travel, not just the covered reasons listed in your plan document.

This benefit can cover expenses resulting from a delay, whether you’re en route to Japan, returning home, or even in the middle of your trip. To be reimbursed, the trip delay must be caused by a covered reason, such as a flight delay lasting the required amount of time.

Lost or Delayed Baggage

If you’re on your way to Japan and your baggage is delayed by your airline or other common carrier, Seven Corners will reimburse you to replace necessary personal belongings. Necessary personal items include things like clothing or toiletries — the things you need most so you can continue on your trip.

If your baggage is lost, delayed, damaged, or stolen during your trip, your travel insurance could pay to replace or repair the insured items.

There are some requirements and exclusions for both lost and delayed baggage. These include items such as laptops and jewelry, which may not be covered. Your luggage also must be delayed for the length of time stated in the plan before you are eligible for reimbursement.

• Travel Medical

Travel medical insurance can cover expenses for medical treatment if you get sick or hurt during your trip. This is particularly important when your domestic health insurance does not provide coverage overseas.

Seven Corners Trip Protection plans for U.S. residents provide coverage for Emergency Accident and Sickness as well as Emergency Dental expenses. Seven Corners also provides travel medical plans. This robust medical coverage is available to both U.S. and international residents.

Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation

Sometimes adequate medical care is not available at your destination. If you get sick or injured during your trip to Japan and transferring you to another facility is deemed medically necessary, Seven Corners will pay for and arrange an emergency medical evacuation. We will also arrange your return home where you can continue your recovery.

Accidental Death and Dismemberment

This Seven Corners benefit provides coverage for loss of life or limb resulting from an injury caused by an accident during your trip to Italy.

What Is The Best Travel Insurance for Japan?

Seven Corners Trip Protection is our most popular plan for U.S. residents traveling to Japan. With this plan, you’ll find coverage to protect your trip expenses, belongings, and emergency medical expenses. We also offer an annual trip protection plan for multiple trips, perfect for frequent travelers to Japan or anywhere else in the world.

Seven Corners Travel Medical Insurance provides great levels of confidence for U.S. and non-U.S. residents traveling to Japan. These plans offer robust coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured during your trip. You want to be able to get the care you need without having to worry about how you’ll pay for it, and travel insurance can help you do that.

Finding the best travel insurance for your special trip to Japan is easy. Answer a few simple questions on our interactive guide and we’ll show you the best options for you and your trip. The quick quote you get is hassle-free and there’s no commitment on your part. If you have questions or need additional support, you can also contact our licensed agents . We’re ready to help you choose the best travel insurance for a vacation to Japan.

How Much Does Travel Insurance to Japan Cost?

The cost of travel insurance varies by plan as well as a number of other factors. For trip protection plans, the cost is based on your trip expenses and is generally 4-10% of your total insurable trip cost. See how to calculate your trip cost and make sure you have the right amount of coverage. 

The cost of a travel medical plan is based on:

• The plan you choose
• The length of your trip
• Medical maximum, deductible, and other add-ons you select when customizing your plan

Get a quick quote when you answer a few simple questions about your trip to Japan and see what kind of coverage could be best for you.

Travel Requirements for Japan

Before heading off on your vacation to Japan, it’s important to consider what travel documents and requirements your destination has. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need when traveling to Japan.

Visa Requirements for Japan

If you have a United States passport you do not need a visa to visit Japan as long as your trip is shorter than 90 days.

There are many countries whose residents are exempt from needing a visa for a short-term visit to Japan. Check out the full list here .

If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, learn more about the procedures for long-term stays here .

Documents and Forms

You’ll need to bring your passport when traveling to Japan. Be sure to carry your passport at all times during your trip, as it’s a legal requirement, and you may be asked to show identification. It’s also important to ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.

Public Health Requirements

As of January 19, 2024, there are no COVID-19 restrictions in place when traveling to Japan.

You won’t need to provide a negative COVID test or proof of vaccination to enter the country.

However, the Centers for Disease Control recommends getting up to date on COVID-19 vaccines before traveling and wearing a mask in crowded places on your trip.

Bringing Medication into Japan

It’s important to note that many common medications in the United States, including Tylenol, Nyquil, and Advil Cold & Sinus, are illegal in Japan. There are limits to the amount of medication and medical devices you’re allowed to bring in.

If you have to exceed these limits, you’ll need to obtain a “Yunyu Kakunin-sho” (importation certificate). You can apply for your certificate online .

Travel tip: Start the process of applying for your Yunyu Kakunin-sho early, as it may take several weeks to process.

Travel Information & Safety Tips for Japan

Want to learn about the weather at your destination? Looking for more info on transportation? Check out these travel and safety tips for a deep dive into what you can expect on your trip to Japan.

Is Japan safe to visit?

Japan is generally a safe place to visit. . Crime is low, but pickpocketing does happen in crowded areas like public transport or tourist attractions. Always be aware of your surroundings when traveling in public, and make sure your valuables are secure.

Be especially cautious if you plan to visit entertainment or nightlife districts like Shibuya, Roppongi, Kabuki-cho, or Ikebukuro. These areas have instances of drink-spiking, assault and robbery.

If you’re a United States citizen traveling to Japan, you can enroll in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) as an additional safety precaution. Through the program, you’ll get up-to-date information about safety precautions in your destination country. It will also help the U.S. Embassy and your friends and family contact you in case of an emergency.

Travel tip: If you need emergency services in Japan, dial 110 for police and 119 for fire truck or ambulance.

What languages are spoken in Japan?

The vast majority of the population (99.2%) speak Japanese as their first language. Korean is the next most popular language, spoken by 0.5% of the population, followed by Chinese at 0.2%. People in large cities may speak English, but it’s not considered common. Japan is ranked 87th in English proficiency out of 113 countries.

What currency is used in Japan?

The currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen. As of January 19, 2024, one United States dollar is equal to 148 Japanese Yen.

For the most current currency rate, check out this currency exchange tool .

What is the weather like in Japan?

In the spring, Japan is moderate to cool, with temperatures averaging in the mid-seventies in most places. It is one of the most popular times to visit Japan, as the cherry blossoms bloom. Cherry blossoms tend to peak around late March to early April.

Summer in Japan starts with a rainy season in June, followed by hot and humid months in July and August. There are many nice beaches in Japan where you can cool off with swimming or snorkeling. Popular spots include Kotohiki in Kyoto and Kamakura.

In the fall, temperatures dip, and leaves change in Japan. Temperatures can range from 40s to 70s. Fall is a great time to head to the countryside to experience nature and autumn foliage. 

Winter in Japan is dry and cold. Pack a thick coat, as temperatures can drop into the 20s. Skiing is a popular winter activity, especially in areas like Hakuba, Nagano, Niseko, and Hokkaido.

Food and Water Safety in Japan

Feel free to drink tap water anywhere in Japan. Many metro stations have water stations, so if you carry a reusable water bottle, you’ll be able to fill it up on the go. It’s generally safe to eat produce from local markets as well. 

There are many outdoor markets across Japan offering a wide range of foods. Check them out here .

Food Etiquette in Japan

In Japan, chopsticks are the most common eating utensil. It’s important to know how to use them properly when dining out at a Japanese restaurant. Here are the do’s and don’ts of using chopsticks:

• Use the provided chopstick rests
• Place food from shared bowls on your own plate before putting it in your mouth
• Pick up small bowls or plates and bring them closer to your mouth while eating

Don’t

• Use one chopstick in each hand
• Lick or chew on chopsticks
• Stab food to pick it up
• Point at someone with your chopsticks
• Use chopsticks to grab a bowl or shift it toward yourself

Transportation

Japan has an efficient, punctual public transportation system. Japan’s four main islands are covered by an extensive railway network that you can use to move between major cities.

If you plan to move between cities a lot during your trip,  consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass . This pass allows for unlimited train rides for 1, 2, or 3 weeks.

Do I need a power adapter for my electronics?

Japan uses Type A and Type B power sockets, the same as those used in the United States. However, type B is not as common.

If you’re traveling with Type A two-pronged electronics, you shouldn’t need an adapter. If you’re traveling with Type B three-pronged electronics, it’s a good idea to have an adapter with a two-prong plug.

U.S. Embassy and Consulate Information for Japan

Before traveling to Japan, you should know the location of the nearest Embassy or Consulate to where you’re staying. Here’s a full list of Embassy and Consulate locations.

U.S. Embassy in Tokyo:

1-10-5 Akasaka

Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-8420 Japan

U.S. Consulate in Naha:

2-1-1 Toyama,

Urasoe City, Okinawa 901-2104

U.S. Consulate in Osaka:

2-11-5, Nishitenma,

Kita-ku, Osaka 530-8543

U.S. Consulate in Sapporo:

Kita 1-jo Nishi 28-chome, Chuo-ku,

Sapporo 064-0821, Japan

U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka:

5-26 Ohori 2-chome, Chuo-ku,

Fukuoka 810-0052

U.S. Consulate in Nagoya:

Nagoya International Center Bldg. 6F

1-47-1 Nagono, Nakamura-ku, Nagoya 450-0001

Contact Seven Corners about Travel Insurance for Japan

Finding the best travel insurance doesn’t have to be hard. For more than 30 years, Seven Corners has been helping travelers to Japan choose the right plan so they can explore more confidently. Get a quick, hassle-free quote online or chat with a licensed Seven Corners agent . We’ll answer all your questions and help you customize your coverage for your next Japanese adventure.

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Traveling From the USA to Japan? Here Are 3 Health Insurances to 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.

Crossing the Pacific to visit Japan is an accessible and exciting trip for most Americans, regardless of whether it's for business, to visit friends or family, or to see the famous Kyoto, Mount Fuji, or Osaka Castle And while traveling to Japan can be an accessible, it's worth remembering that out-the-pocket healthcare costs are among the most expensive in the world, so it's not just a good idea, but essential, to arrive in the country with travel health insurance under your belt.

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

Japan Insurance Profile

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

Best Travel Insurances for Japan

• 01. Should I get travel insurance for Japan? 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 from the USA to Japan scroll down

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory From the USA to Japan?

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

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 Japan 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 Japan from America:

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 visitors from the USA traveling to Japan. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to Japan, including coverage for emergencies, doctor's visits, and other medical-related expenses. 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 Japan:

• 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 /person /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 good travel insurance provider for Japan, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance from the USA 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 /person /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 young people or digital nomads from the USA because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind in Japan 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 /person /month
• Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term traveling

Compare For Yourself

In this post, we explored three travel insurance providers you should consider for your next trip to Japan from the USA. That being said, there are many more providers out there, some of which might make even more sense for you depending on your travel needs and preferences. To compare the top providers on the market, run a search on Monto's travel insurance comparison engine below 👇

Find travel insurance for you:

How do they compare.

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

Data correct as of 14/02/2023

FAQ About Travel Insurance from the USA to Japan

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 Japan. However, we strongly encourage you to do so anyway, because the cost of healthcare in Japan 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 visitors 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 traveling (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 insured, 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 tourists.

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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Do I need travel insurance to visit Japan?

Our top picks for the best travel insurance for japan, how much does travel insurance for japan cost, why you need travel insurance to visit japan, what does travel insurance for japan cover, what isn’t covered by travel insurance for japan, tips for getting the best travel insurance for japan, japan travel information & requirements, japan travel insurance faqs, related topics.

Travel Insurance for a Japan Vacation: Tips & Safety Info

• Japan does not accept U.S. health insurance , so it’s wise to purchase travel medical insurance for your trip.
• Given Japan’s high rate of earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons, travel insurance is a good idea for all travelers .
• According to our research, our top picks for travel insurance for Japan come from Tin Leg , Generali , and IMG Global Travel Insurance . ( skip ahead to view these plans ).
• Comprehensive travel insurance policies typically cover medical care, medical evacuation, baggage and trip delays, interruptions and cancellations .
• The cost of travel insurance varies dramatically between travelers and insurance providers. The cheapest plans cost as little as $1 per day .
• To find the best travel insurance policy to suit your needs, we recommend using our online comparison tool .

Japan is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. While the country itself is generally safe — the Global Peace Index ranks it among the top 10 most peaceful countries in the world — every trip comes with some risk. Whether you’re visiting for a week or a month, travel insurance for Japan can help protect your physical and financial health.

Trips to Japan can be expensive; travel insurance helps you recoup costs in case of unexpected delays or cancellations. Most policies come with medical coverage, which is helpful if you’re injured while skiing in Hokkaido or hiking Mt. Fuji.

This guide is designed to provide the information you need to choose and purchase a travel insurance policy for Japan, including:

• Travel insurance requirements for Japan
• Typical coverage options
• How much you can expect to pay for a Japan travel insurance policy

Our top picks for the best japan travel insurance

• Tin Leg: Best Rated Overall
• Generali Global Assistance: Best Value with Robust Coverage
• IMG: Best for Travel Delays

Generali Global Assistance

Japan does not require you to have insurance during your visit, but it’s always a good idea to purchase a policy. While you probably won’t encounter any violent crime or political unrest, insurance can help protect you if something goes wrong before or during your trip.

Many travel insurance policies will help you recoup non-refundable costs if you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason—for example, if you come down with a bad illness or are called for jury duty. If you have a medical emergency in Japan, insurance can also help cover your hospital bills. It can even pay for medical transport back to the United States if needed.

Purchasing travel insurance can help you prepare for the risks that are inherent to any trip to Japan, such as those discussed below.

Best Rated Overall

Why we like it.

• Excellent primary coverage for medical expenses
• High limit for emergency evacuation coverage
• Optional cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage available
• Comes with coverage for hurricanes and inclement weather
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions is available if purchased within 14 days of the trip deposit
• Baggage delay coverage requires a 24-hour waiting period
• Low coverage limits for baggage and personal effects

Best Value with Robust Coverage

• High emergency medical and medical evacuation coverage
• Cancelation & interruption coverage
• Offers hurricane and weather coverage
• Extensive loss or delay coverage.
• No pre-existing condition coverage

Best for Travel Delays

• Purchase your plan up until one day before you depart
• Generous limits for trip delays, emergency evacuation, and more
• Pre-existing condition waiver available if purchased within 20 days of initial trip deposit
• 24/7 emergency travel assistance included
• Coronavirus-related medical expenses covered
• Plan gets notably more expensive with age

According to official sales data from Squaremouth , travel insurance for Japan costs between $250 and $350.

Our official sales figures over the past year show that our customers paid an average of $205.72 for travel insurance to Japan.

For basic medical and medical evacuation coverage, travel insurance for a trip to Japan can cost as little as $1 per day. For more comprehensive coverage, we found more plans typically cost around $7 to $11 per day.

To give you an idea of the possible costs of insuring a trip to Japan, we’ve collected a variety of quotes. 

The prices for the quotes are based on these details:

• Age: 35 years old
• Destination: Japan
• Trip Length: 7 days
• Trip cost: $2,000

This table shows our quotes for basic travel insurance. As you can see, the cheapest travel insurance costs less than $1 per day.

Example Where Plan Doesn’t Reimburse the Full Trip Cost

We got more quotes from the same providers for policies that also include trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage. These quotes show that this type of protection costs around $7 to $11 per day.

Example Where Plan Does Reimburse the Full Trip Cost

Costs for a Japan travel insurance plan can vary considerably from person to person. Generally, a comprehensive travel insurance policy to Japan will cost 5-10% of your total trip cost.

Some of the factors that affect your premium are:

• Cost of the trip
• Length of the trip
• Time elapsed between the initial trip deposit and the policy purchase
• Optional add-ons, such as Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage

Risk of earthquakes and natural disasters

Japan sits at the intersection of four different tectonic plates, which means that earthquakes are common. There are usually 1,500 every year , including four to seven major earthquakes .

Much of the tectonic activity in the region happens under the ocean, which means that Japan also experiences more tsunamis than any other country in the world. The Great East Japan earthquake of 2011 created a catastrophic tsunami with waves up to 132 feet tall .

Japan’s high rate of earthquakes and tsunamis alone is reason enough to buy a travel insurance policy. If your trip is disrupted or delayed or you’re injured in a natural disaster, your policy can provide emergency assistance, financial reimbursement and peace of mind.

Risk of extreme weather

Because of its location and topography, Japan is prone to a variety of extreme weather conditions that could affect your journey. Typhoons are common between May and October; they can bring high winds, landslides and destructive high tides. If you’re traveling to northern Japan in the winter, there’s a chance of severe snowstorms. The possibility is particularly high in Aomori City, Sapporo and Toyama — the top three snowiest major cities in the world . Extreme weather can inhibit your ability to move around Japan. Insurance can help you recover some of the lost costs from delays or rerouting. 

Risks related to adventure sports

Are you planning to hike, ski or snowboard in Japan? You’re not alone; many people love to experience the country’s spectacular landscapes through adventure sports. If you break an arm on the ski lift or need to be airlifted off of a mountain after an injury, travel insurance can help protect you from high medical bills.

Insurance coverage can vary by provider and plan. Before you buy a policy for a Japan trip, make sure you read the benefits carefully to understand what’s covered. 

Some of the most common coverage types include the following.

Trip cancellation insurance

Trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for non-refundable trip costs in case you need to cancel your trip. Keep in mind that the cancellation must be for a reason that’s covered under the policy. For many providers, this includes unexpected natural disasters or the sudden death of a family member. If you have travel insurance for Japan, you’ll likely be covered if a surprise earthquake hits your destination.

For insurance that covers any type of cancellation, you can purchase cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance . With this type of coverage (which is often sold as an add-on), you can cancel for any reason at all and the provider will reimburse you for around 50% to 70% of your total prepaid travel costs.

Trip delay insurance

Delays happen, especially when you’re making the long journey to Japan. Trip delay coverage can reimburse you for the costs you incur in these situations. If the airline cancels your flight, your policy can help pay for things such as a hotel room and a taxi.

Trip interruption insurance

Trip interruption coverage helps mitigate the financial losses if you need to come home early from your trip to Japan. Depending on the policy, you might be able to get reimbursed for the part of the trip you’re unable to complete. Need to buy a new flight home? Some policies will help you pay for it.

Keep in mind that trip insurance coverage only kicks in under certain circumstances. Usually, the cancellation must be for reasons out of your control, such as a health emergency that makes it impossible for you to continue with the trip.

Travel medical insurance

Medical coverage is one of the most important parts of a travel insurance policy. American health insurance doesn’t usually work outside the United States , and costs can add up quickly if you experience an illness or injury. Medical insurance reimburses you for out-of-pocket expenses; some providers can even bill the hospital directly.

When you have travel medical insurance, you can explore Japan with peace of mind. And if you slip on temple steps in Kyoto and need a doctor’s attention, you won’t need to bear the costs of the emergency room bills.

Medical evacuation insurance

Travel medical insurance covers the costs of medical transportation in an emergency. Depending on the extent of your injuries, this might involve flying you from a remote part of Japan to a better-equipped hospital in a large city. In some cases, it means transporting you home to receive continuing care in the United States. Many policies also pay for a friend or family member to fly to Japan and escort you home. If you pass away during your trip, some providers include coverage to repatriate your remains.

Medical transportation can be extremely expensive, so it’s important to look closely at the limits on your insurance policy. Make sure you have ample coverage, especially if you’re visiting Japan’s dense wilderness areas or exploring far-flung parts of the country.

Insurance for personal items

Your baggage is your lifeline while you’re visiting Japan; insurance for personal items can help you recoup costs if your luggage is lost, stolen or damaged. It’s particularly important if you’re bringing expensive items. Packing a high-end camera to capture the cherry blossoms? If it’s stolen, insurance can prevent a complete loss. Every policy has its own rules for covered possessions, so read the fine print carefully before you buy.

Rental car coverage

A rental car is a great way to get around Japan, and rental insurance is a good way to protect yourself in the case of a collision or other accidental damage. Many Japanese roads are famously narrow, so it’s nice to have ample coverage.  

As you’re comparing travel insurance plans for a trip to Japan, make sure you understand the things your policy does not cover. For example, travel medical coverage typically doesn’t apply to routine checkups.

Other common exclusions are:

• Participating in extreme sports or risky activities
• Pre-existing conditions
• Excessive alcohol or drug use
• Pregnancy (unless you’re experiencing a complication)
• Non-emergency dental care
• Trips that go against medical advice

Use these tips to find the best possible coverage for your trip to Japan:

If you purchase a single-trip policy soon after you make the first deposit, you may be eligible for additional benefits. For example, some companies cover pre-existing medical conditions but only if you buy within 21 days of the deposit.

Consider your activities.

Compare your plans to each insurance plan’s inclusions and exclusions to ensure that you’re covered. If you want to do extreme sports, you may be limited to specific providers.

Check transportation rules.

Coverage often applies to common carriers such as major airlines and train companies. If you get injured while riding in a friend’s car, your policy may not cover the medical bills.

Use a comparison tool.

An online comparison tool allows you to view multiple coverage options at once, so you can easily compare policies to find the best deal.

Are there COVID-19 restrictions for U.S. tourists?

No — Japan ended its requirements for vaccination and negative COVID-19 tests in April 2023.

Do I need a visa or passport to travel to Japan?

If you’re an American traveling to Japan, you do not need a visa for tourism or business visits of 90 days or less. You will, however, need a valid passport. The passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Japan.

Is it safe to visit Japan?

Japan is widely regarded as a safe destination. The country has less crime than many other developed nations; for example, its homicide rate is considerably lower than the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Of course, you should still take normal precautions to prevent pickpocketing and petty theft.

Japan is a politically stable country, but it’s important to keep an eye on tensions between South Korea and North Korea. The Korean peninsula is close to Japan, so an escalating situation could impact your trip. This scenario is unlikely — but to stay up-to-date, consider registering with the U.S. Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). After you sign up, the U.S. Embassy will keep you abreast of any emergencies that arise.

Will my U.S. health insurance work in Japan?

Most U.S. health insurance plans do not work in Japan.

Is health care free for tourists in Japan?

If you’re a tourist in Japan, health care is not free; you’ll need to pay with cash or by card. However, ambulance rides are free to everyone in Japan, even for foreign visitors.

Are there any travel restrictions to Japan?

As of January 2024, Japan does not have any restrictions for travelers.

Imogen Sharma is an experienced writer, specializing in business, culture, and financial guidance for young adults. She has contributed to articles for Varo Bank , Lendzi , MoneyTips and Indeed , providing invaluable insights into budgeting, financial planning, and lines of credit.

As a dedicated self-employed writer, she cherishes the opportunity to share her knowledge and experience with others, offering advice so they can master their bank accounts and secure their financial futures. Her articles, published in CMSWire , Reworked , WalletGenius and The Customer , serve as actionable guides to help people make solid financial decisions.

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Guide To Travel Insurance For Japan

Updated: Nov 23, 2023, 1:14pm

Reviewed By

Table of Contents

Do i need travel insurance for japan, what does a comprehensive travel insurance policy for japan cover, does travel insurance for japan cover sports and activities, what types of travel insurance policy are there for japan, tips for travelling to japan, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Japan is a popular holiday destination for Australians, with Asia being the closest continent to us. We’re such fans of the holiday spot, in fact, that there have been records of more than half a million Australian tourists visiting Japan in a single year.

So whether you’re planning a city break in Tokyo, a nature escape on Yakushima island or something in between, travel insurance for Japan can safeguard your trip.

Japan and Australia do not share a reciprocal healthcare agreement, which means treatment could be expensive should you have a medical emergency during your stay. A policy for Japan could cover these costs, as well as a number of other unexpected expenses that may crop up while you’re away.

Find out how travel insurance for Japan works below.

Featured Partners

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

While travel insurance isn’t compulsory when visiting Japan, it’s well worth considering .

Should you fall ill or get injured while away, emergency treatment could easily cost into the thousands of dollars, and without suitable cover in place you would be expected to pay these costs upfront.

Insurers often offer a range of policies, from basic to comprehensive cover. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) particularly advises taking out a comprehensive policy.

Related: Our Pick Of The Best Comprehensive Travel Insurance Providers In Australia

A comprehensive policy can cover emergency treatment, and medical evacuation, if you find yourself injured and stranded. It can also cover repatriation, to get you back home in severe cases.

It should also pay out for the loss or theft of your luggage, and the cancellation of your trip, if an emergency—such as a bereavement or falling ill—prevents you from going away.

While an insurers’ more basic policies often offer the above, and may include certain other benefits, their comprehensive policies will provide their broadest range of cover, and often higher cover limits.

Other benefits can include cover for:

• Personal money: the amount that can be claimed if your money is lost or stolen
• Missed departure: covers the cost of additional accommodation and travel should an emergency cause the policyholder to miss their journey
• Travel delay: pays out if your scheduled transport is late by typically a least 12 hours
• Company insolvency: compensates you if your airline or hotel goes bust
• Personal accident: pays out if an injury causes permanent disability or death.

Policies can differ greatly in what they offer, so it’s important to look through the fine print for details of the exact cover included by reading the provider’s product disclosure statement (PDS) to find out about any limitations or restrictions that may apply.

In terms of cost, you can find out how to lower your travel insurance premiums in our guide to cheap travel insurance .

Mountain climbing, scuba diving, playing baseball, and snow skiing are some of the most popular activities for visitors seeking an action-packed holiday while in Japan. If you’re planning to take part in sports and activities while away, it’s important to check your policy covers them.

Most insurers cover 50 to 100 low-risk sports and activities as standard, but offer optional cover for those they deem high-risk for an additional premium.

One insurer’s definition of ‘high–risk’ is often different to another’s. However, all information on the sports and activities a policy covers automatically, and at an extra cost, can be found in the fine print.

Most insurers also offer protection for snow sports as an optional extra. This covers lost or stolen equipment, piste closure and avalanche or landslide disruption, among other benefits.

When taking out travel insurance for Japan it can help to consider if you’ll only go on one holiday in the next 12 months, or if you plan to travel again, to Japan or elsewhere.

This is because there are three main types of travel insurance for Japan:

Single trip: designed for a one-off trip

Annual multi-trip: for two or more trips to Japan and other destinations, should you choose

Backpacker: covers extended trips that will last up to 12 or 18 months or even 24 months if the insurer allows

An annual multi-trip policy can work out cheaper than purchasing individual policies for each trip you take, and usually requires less paperwork. This type of policy often covers a section of the world rather than a specific destination, as typical of single trip insurance.

If there’s no option to choose cover for Japan, the insurer may offer cover for Asia as a whole, worldwide destinations excluding the US and other nearby territories, or worldwide cover that includes the US and other nearby territories.

The latter is often the most expensive type of cover, reflecting the higher medical and liability costs in North America and countries close by, compared to other parts of the world.

Check the DFAT’s advice

DFAT publishes up-to-date information on travel risks in certain countries and regions of countries, on its Smarttraveller website . This includes terrorism threats and natural disasters.

It is particularly important to know if DFAT advises not to travel to your destination, as travelling against its advice could invalidate your policy.

Make Sure Your Passport Is Valid

As with some other countries, you may be refused entry to Japan if your passport expires within six months of your arrival date.

On landing, your photograph and fingerprint may be taken electronically, and immigration may deny your entry should you refuse to comply.

Stay Up To Date with Vaccinations

Check which vaccinations you may need before travelling, with your doctor. The US-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all visitors take vaccinations for the following before travelling to Japan:

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Have the Right Currency

The Japanese currency is the Yen (JPY) . While you can take any currency into the country, you’ll have to declare, when arriving and leaving, any amount over JPY 1 million, or equivalent. This is 10,257 dollars.

Know the Rules for Driving in Japan

You can drive up to a year with an Australian driving licence and International Driving Permit. If you intend to drive in Japan beyond 12 months, you will need a Japanese driving licence.

Emergency Services

The emergency number for the medical, fire and rescue services in Japan is 119. For the police, it’s 110. If you’re in Tokyo, you can also call 35010110 for English-speaking police.

What is the best travel insurance policy for Japan?

As with any type of travel insurance, there is no one-fits-all policy, as each traveller has their own specific requirements. Shopping around is best, to find a policy to suit your needs, for a competitive price .

When comparing policies, it’s important to weigh up the cover provided against policy price and the excess levied. An excess is a set amount payable by the policyholder on each accepted claim. The higher the excess, the lower the policy price usually is. Often insurers offer various excess options to suit the traveller.

Cover for trip cancellation should match the cost of the holiday, and the baggage cover limit should be enough to replace the belongings you’re taking with you, should something happen to them. Note that there is usually a total limit on how much you can claim for baggage, as well as a single item limit which caps the amount that you can claim for each lost or stolen item.

How much does travel insurance for Japan cost?

Insurers take a number of variables into account when determining the price of a policy. This includes holiday destination and duration, and the type of policy chosen.

There are also optional extras that travellers can choose to purchase, such as cover for their devices, high-risk sports, snow sports, or a cruise .

An insurer will also consider factors such as a traveller’s age and any pre-existing conditions they may have. These are conditions the traveller had before taking out the policy. Travellers must declare these on applying for cover. If they don’t, then later make a claim related to the condition, they may invalidate their policy.

Insurers tend to place an age limit on their cover, and charge mature travellers more to be insured. Only some cover pre-existing medical conditions, and often charge more to do so. This is because statistically, maturer travellers and those with pre-existing conditions are viewed as more likely to make a medical claim.

For a ballpark figure on what a policy for Japan can cost, Forbes Advisor reviewed quotes from multiple insurers, for travellers with no pre-existing conditions and in need of no extra cover.

We found that travel insurance for a 30-year-old travelling to Japan for two weeks could cost anything between $30 and $190 dollars. For a 60-year-old travelling for a month, it ranges between $60 and $390 dollars.

Do Australians need a visa for Japan?

Australian citizens can visit Japan for up to 90 days visa-free if travelling for leisure or for business purposes.

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Travel Insurance for a Japan Vacation (2024)

Travel insurance can protect your trip expenses, offering peace of mind during your vacation to Japan. See how to get covered and what travel insurance costs.

with our comparison partner, TravelInsurance.com

Jessica Bergin is a Barcelona-based Australian writer who has worked in the travel industry for half a decade. Her passion for adventure, travel, culture and lifestyle has helped her navigate a successful career in the writing industry, including for World Words.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

Travel insurance for Japan can offer financial protection and peace of mind for your trip to the East Asian country. Japan is a top destination for sightseeing and adventure sports but is also prone to natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons. Whether your flight gets delayed due to weather or you get hurt hiking Mount Fuji, a travel insurance plan can make a big difference.

Most travel insurance companies cover trip interruptions, lost or stolen baggage, emergency medical expenses and more. We at the MarketWatch Guides Team have reviewed the best travel insurance for a trip to Japan and offer a general overview of coverage benefits, requirements and costs.

Compare Japan Travel Insurance Companies

Why trust marketwatch guides.

Our editorial team follows a comprehensive methodology for rating and reviewing travel insurance companies. Advertisers have no effect on our rankings.

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Do I Need Travel Insurance for Japan?

Travel insurance is not required to visit Japan but is recommended to cover unforeseen medical treatments abroad. Not all U.S. health insurance plans provide coverage in other countries — so you might not have coverage if you become hurt in Japan. However, you can obtain emergency medical coverage through a travel insurance plan. In case of an emergency, travel insurance can cover medical treatments, costs, evacuation and repatriation.

Moreover, Japan is prone to natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis and typhoons. Travel insurance can reimburse nonrefundable expenses in case of trip interruptions or cancellations due to unforeseen weather events.

Japan is known for its adventure activities , with skiing and hiking being among the most popular options. In addition to protecting you against certain injuries, some travel insurance products offer coverage for lost or stolen sporting equipment and gear.

Cancel for Any Reason Coverage

With cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage, you have more flexibility to recoup financial setbacks in case of trip cancellation. Most travel insurance providers have a predetermined list of reasons as to when you can receive reimbursement for canceling a trip, including:

• Death of a family member or traveling companion
• Hospitalization
• Unexpected court-ordered appointments
• Military orders
• Acts of terrorism or war

CFAR coverage guarantees protection for a range of additional reasons, including general decisions to change your plans. CFAR coverage is more expensive than standard travel insurance and typically costs 40% to 50% more than your standard insurance plan.

You cannot purchase CFAR insurance on its own when planning a trip to Japan. Most providers offer this coverage as an add-on benefit to your base coverage. However, companies may limit the timeframe in which you can upgrade to CFAR insurance and have limits on when to file a claim if you cancel your trip.

Gear Theft Protection

Theft and petty crime rates are low in Japan, making it one of the world’s safest destinations .

From the ancient traditions in Kyoto to the cherry blossoms in Kyushu, many visitors choose to capture their travels on camera or film. If you’re taking valuable equipment with you, travel insurance can protect you from financial loss. Here are some items that travel insurance may cover:

• Professional camera, tripod and gear
• Laptop, tablet or smartphone
• Sports equipment, like ski poles and protective gear

Most insurance policies have predetermined coverage limits, deductibles and exclusions. Check your policy wording to ensure you have coverage for valuable items you wish to bring on your trip. It may be best to leave irreplaceable items at home or locked in a hotel safe.

Medical Emergency Insurance and Emergency Medical Evacuation

Japan boasts a high-quality health care system , but you may face financial burdens if you need care without insurance. Some of the most reputable Japanese hospitals are St. Luke’s International Hospital in Tokyo and Kyoto University Hospital in Kyoto.

Here is what’s generally included in medical travel insurance coverage:

• Hospital fees
• Medical care and costs
• Operating room fees and anesthesia
• Ambulance costs
• Emergency dental work
• Lab tests and X-rays

Standard travel insurance policies may not provide medical coverage for extreme sports and adventure activities, but certain companies ( like Travelex ) offer adventure sports add-ons. Whether mountain biking in Osaka or snowboarding in Hakuba, travel insurance for medical emergencies can offer necessary medical protection in the event of an emergency.

The majority of travel medical insurance plans cover emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. If you can’t receive health care locally, your policy will cover you against the cost of evacuation to your home country.

Rental Car Protection

You need an international driver’s permit that has been issued in your home country to rent a car in Japan. Driving a car in big cities like Tokyo can be expensive and inconvenient. With traffic jams and the possibility of car accidents, rental car insurance can offer protection in case something goes wrong.

You can purchase travel insurance with rental car coverage. Protection varies by provider so be sure to check the details when you buy travel insurance. Policies may cover the following:

• Collision damage
• Windshield protection
• Roadside protection
• Theft protection

In the case of a stolen or damaged vehicle, standard travel policies offer rental vehicle excess to help you manage the costs.

As an alternative to driving, you can purchase a rail pass and utilize Japan’s railway systems to get between major areas.

Trip Cancellation Insurance

If you have to call off your Japan trip before departure, trip cancellation insurance can protect you from financial loss. Trip cancellation insurance offers reimbursement for nonrefundable and prepaid travel expenses up to a certain amount. Here are some generally accepted reasons to file a cancellation claim:

• Dangerous weather conditions or natural disasters
• Hospitalization or serious illness
• Death of a family member
• Acts of terrorism

As previously mentioned, purchasing CFAR coverage will give you more flexibility with trip cancellations.

How Much Does Japan Travel Insurance Cost?

The cost of travel insurance for a Japan vacation can differ depending on your age, trip details and coverage preferences. For example, your price may vary depending on your trip length and duration. Plan options can include single-trip and annual multi-trip policies.

To find a Japan travel insurance quote, you’ll need to supply the following information:

• Number of travelers
• Age of each traveler
• Destination country and city
• Country of residence
• Total trip price
• Trip length

When calculating your total trip price, factor in flights and accommodation. There are many cheap travel insurance options available if it’s your first time visiting Japan and you’re on a budget.

We requested quotes from ten travel insurance companies for their most affordable plan for a trip to Japan. The below quotes are for a 30-year-old traveler from Florida, traveling to Japan for ten days in September 2024, with a total trip cost of $4,000. Policies include coverage for cancellations, interruptions, delays, medical care and evacuation.

These quotes were collected in April 2024 for a trip in September 2024.

Each plan differs, but includes coverage for the following: 

• COVID-19 cancellation
• COVID-19 medical costs
• Cancellation coverage
• Trip interruption
• Medical evacuation
• Emergency medical coverage

How Do I Get Travel Insurance for Japan?

Before you purchase travel insurance, check to see what coverage you already have. For example, some credit cards offer travel insurance, and you should check to see if your health insurance extends abroad. Once you identify the coverage you already have, you can find a policy that fits your needs.

To ensure you get the best value for your money, it’s important to research and compare various trip insurance providers . Factor in your preferences and choose a policy with coverage tailored to you. Review policy exclusions and deductibles to see if it covers what you need and is in your budget.

Japan Safety Tips

Japan is considered a safe country to visit for tourists. When visiting the Land of the Rising Sun, safety concerns mainly revolve around natural disasters like earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis and typhoons. You can stay up to date on weather events by downloading Japanese disaster prevention apps on your mobile device.

Crime and Safety

By global standards, crime rates in Japan are extremely low . Theft is rare, and it is common to leave valuable items like laptops on tables in restaurants and cafes. Scams are unlikely, but can still occur in areas like Roppongi, Tokyo . Although risks are low, U.S. citizens should practice standard safety measures when traveling in Japan.

Day Trips, Tours and Excursions

A Japanese vacation offers opportunities for sightseeing and adventure. Whether you’re taking a day trip to Nara to see the wild deer or scuba diving on Miyako Island, buying travel insurance coverage can be a good idea. Japan travel insurance ensures peace of mind in case of unexpected injuries, medical expenses or emergencies. Some policies also cover gear and delays related to travel excursions, like hiking or golf.

As of May 2023, travelers are no longer required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result to enter Japan . International travel is open and the country has fully lifted coronavirus restrictions.

The Bottom Line: Is Travel Insurance for a Japan Vacation Worth It?

Although you do not legally need travel insurance to enter Japan, it is worth considering for your trip. The country strongly recommends travel medical insurance or a plan that offers medical coverage for expenses related to COVID-19 or emergency medical care. A comprehensive travel insurance plan can also cover you against financial losses in the case of trip cancellation, travel delays or natural disasters.

To decide if travel insurance is worth it , factor in pre-existing medical conditions and the type of activities you plan on doing in Japan. We recommend getting quotes from at least three providers before purchasing a policy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance in Japan

Can i claim flight compensation for a trip to japan.

U.S. airlines are not required to compensate you if your flight is delayed or canceled for reasons outside the airline’s control. But you may be able to claim compensation if you buy travel insurance with trip cancellation or interruption coverage. We have put together an article on how to claim compensation if you experience travel interruptions while flying.

Can foreign visitors get health insurance in Japan?

Japan provides free health care to its citizens and expatriates, not short-term visitors. Japan has a universal health care system for foreigners staying longer than a year. But some private U.S. health insurance plans may offer coverage abroad, or you can purchase travel insurance with emergency medical coverage.

What if I get sick in Japan?

Head to an emergency hospital or health care center if you fall ill when visiting Japan. If you require urgent help, you can call an ambulance via 119.

Can I travel to Japan on my own?

Solo travel in Japan is largely considered safe . The country is among the safest in the world, and getting around major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto is easy thanks to the country’s efficient transport links. If you plan to hike or participate in adventure activities, advise somebody of your whereabouts

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訪日外国人向け保険・インバウンド保険

TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY | Tokio Marine & Nichido

Overseas travel insurance for foreigners visiting japan (even if you are a japanese national returning to japan temporarily) for up to 31 days., = insurance for visiting japan =.

Chinese(Simplified) | Chinese(Traditional语言) | 한국 | 日本語

What is TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY?

TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY  is an overseas insurance policy in case of sudden illness or injury for foreigners visiting Japan and or Japanese national’s returning to Japan temporarily for up to 31 days that can be purchased online.  (Insurance can be purchased online).

If you need to see a doctor or hospital care is necessary the insurance company should be contacted and your medical expenses will be paid directly from the insurance company to your caregiver. (Cashless)

TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY is easy and reasonably priced because it is specialized for illness and injury, the premium is less expensive than general overseas travel insurance. (Easy and Reasonable). 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 In addition by using the dedicated application, you will be able to use support functions for certain troubles and natural disasters that might occur during your stay in Japan.

( You can easily contact the insurance company via the app)

Click for Apprication ↓↓↓↓↓↓↓↓↓

For example, if something like this happens…

Sudden illness… Prepare for sudden illness during your stay in Japan.

Unlike your everyday life, the environment and food changes when you travel may or may not have an effect on your health.

Even if you are a foreign national that is  accustomed to eating Japanese food and enjoy eating other local dishes or unusual foods that you have never seen before. It could be a difference in temperature or many other things that may affect your health.

We are no longer in a era where we can say,  “That will never happen to me so I’m fine”

We are also prepared for the new type of Coronavirus (Covid-19)

Unexpected injury… You were supposed to be enjoying yourself…

Covers injuries that occur during sports such as skiing

Traveling is a fun time, but injuries that occur during such times are common occurrences.

But, you also need to be careful about injuries that may occur during sports such as skiing.

Injuries that occur during these times are normal, but you should also be careful about injuries that occur during sports such as skiing.

Injuries may also occur during normal, everyday life. We provide coverage for injuries caused by sudden, accidental, and outpatient accidents.

Expensive medical bills… No way Why me …

In some cases, hospitals won’t accept medical examinations…

Foreign travelers and others who do not have health insurance.  (100% self-payment).

There are cases where you will be charged an outrageous amount of money… It is very common.

Credit cards are not accepted at hospitals… you have to pay in cash.

Even medium-sized hospitals such as municipal hospitals and city hospitals do not accept credit card payments.

Also smaller clinics are known not to accept credit card payments.

The insurance company will pay directly to the hospital or pharmacy

By contacting us before you go to the hospital, we contact the hospital first. We will contact the hospital before you go to the hospital so that you can concentrate on your treatment.

Please be aware that foreign visitors who fail to pay their medical expenses may be denied entry into Japan in the future. Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Non-payment of medical treatment by foreign travelers in Japan has become a problem, and the government has taken such measures.

Of course, Japanese nationals are no exception.

Incidental Services

The following services are also included in the package…

Lost or stolen passport or credit card…

Traveling is always fraught with problems, but there are some things you should never lose. (Available in a variety of languages)

Internet connection lost…

We provide information on useful apps for using public Wi-Fi provided at tourist spots. We provide information on useful applications (with free Wi-Fi functionality for an unlimited period of time)

Insurance Amounts

Coverage item: medical treatment and transportation expense coverage (for foreign visitors to japan).

Covers medical treatment expenses for sudden illness or injury.

If you contact the insurance company before going to the hospital, the insurance company will pay the treatment expenses directly to the hospital. (To contact the insurance company, you need to install the application.)

　10,000,000 yen (including covid-19 infection)

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　 Rest assured that 100% of your expenses for medical treatment, medicine, hospitalization, surgery, and medical transportation to your home country will be covered up to 10 million yen.

Insurance Premiums

Insurance premiums vary depending on the period of insurance.

Please check

There are some important points to note.

About the insurance period

The insurance period is from the day after the date of application or the day of entry into Japan , whichever is later, to the day of completion of departure procedures from Japan.

Example: ① If you apply after entering Japan and apply today, set tomorrow as the insurance start date.

Example: ②Even if someone in Japan applies, depending on the country of departure, someone arriving tomorrow or later may not be able to apply.

(Please apply after entering Japan)

If you are staying in Japan for more than 32 days. (You need someone living in Japan. You can not buy Insurance by yourself) >> Click Here <<

What if it happens outside of Japan?

This insurance policy covers medical and pharmaceutical costs arising from injuries or illnesses occurring in Japan, as well as the cost of repatriation of the patient to his/her home country.

(Accidents outside of Japan are not covered.)

The required documents

Since enrollment is completed online, there are no documents required.

However, please be aware that you may not be able to use the insurance if you make a false declaration.

Common example: 　An application was submitted more than 5 days after entry to Japan, but an error occurred, so an incorrect date of entry was entered and insurance was purchased. 【The insurance cannot be used】

Can I apply from abroad?

The application site can only be accessed from within Japan, Hong Kong, China, or Korea.

How can I confirm the operation of the screen before I leave Japan? >> Click Here <<

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11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in May 2024

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that travelers need to be prepared for the unexpected — from a pandemic to flight troubles to the crowded airport terminals so many of us have encountered.

If you don't have sufficient travel insurance coverage via your credit card , you can supplement your policies with third-party plans.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care or a policy that includes extreme sports, these are the best travel insurance providers to get you covered.

How we found the best travel insurance

We looked at quotes from various companies for a 10-day trip to Mexico in September 2024. The traveler was a 55-year-old woman from Florida who spent $3,000 total on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan was $126.53. The costs displayed below do not include optional add-ons, such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage or pre-existing medical condition coverage.

Read our full analysis about the average cost of travel insurance so you can budget better for your next trip.

However, depending on the plan, you may be able to customize at an added cost.

As we continue to evaluate more travel insurance companies and receive fresh market data, this collection of best travel insurance companies is likely to change. See our full methodology for more details.

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover, what’s not covered, how much does it cost, do i need travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, what are the top travel destinations in 2024, more resources for travel insurance shoppers, top credit cards with travel insurance, methodology, best travel insurance overall: berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

• ExactCare Value (basic) plan is among the least expensive we surveyed.
• Speciality plans available for road trips, luxury travel, adventure activities, flights and cruises.
• Company may reimburse claimants faster than average, including possible same-day compensation.
• Multiple "Trip Delay" coverage types might make claims confusing.
• Cheapest plan only includes fixed amounts for its coverage.

Under the direction of chair and CEO Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has been around since 2014. Its plans provide numerous opportunities for travelers to customize coverage to their needs.

At $135 for our sample trip, the ExactCare Value (basic) plan from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers protection roughly $10 above the average price.

Want something cheaper? Air travelers looking for inexpensive, less comprehensive protections might opt for a basic AirCare plan that includes fixed amounts for its coverage .

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at nearly all plan levels. 

Plans available for travelers going on a cruise, participating in extreme sports or taking a luxury trip.

ExactCare Value (basic) plan was among the least expensive we surveyed.

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

Allianz Global Assistance is a reputable travel insurance company offering plans for over 25 years. Customers can choose from a variety of single and annual policies to fit their needs. On top of comprehensive coverage, some travelers might opt for the more affordable OneTrip Cancellation Plus, which is geared toward domestic travelers looking for trip protections but don’t need post-departure benefits like emergency medical or baggage lost.

For our test trip, Allianz Global Assistance’s basic coverage cost $149, about $22 above average.

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

Stand-alone and add-on rental car damage product available.

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

Best for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions: Travel Guard by AIG

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

Travel Guard by AIG offers a variety of plans and coverages to fit travelers’ needs. On top of more standard trip protections like trip cancellation, interruption, baggage and medical coverage, the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available on certain Travel Guard plans, which allows you to cancel a trip for any reason and get 50% of your nonrefundable deposit back as long as the trip is canceled at least two days before the scheduled departure date.

At $107 for our sample trip, the Essential plan was below average, saving roughly $20.

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

Three comprehensive plans and a Pack N' Go plan for last-minute travelers who don't need cancellation benefits.

Flight protection, car rental, and medical evacuation coverage, as well as annual plans available.

Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver available on all plan levels, as long as it's purchased within 15 days.

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

• Higher-level plan include optional add-ons for event tickets and for electronic equipment
• Rental car protection add-on for just $8 per day, even on lower-level plan.
• Many of the customizations are only available on the higher-tier plan.
• Coverage cost comes in above average in our latest analysis.

Travel Insured International offers several customization options. For instance, those going to see a show may want to add on event ticket registration fee protection. Traveling with expensive gear?Consider adding on coverage for electronic equipment for up to $2,000 in coverage.

Be sure to check which policies are available in your state. You will need to input your destination, residence, trip dates and the number of travelers to get a quote and see coverages.

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

Comprehensive plans include medical expense reimbursement accidents, sickness, evacuation and pre-existing conditions, depending on the plan.

Flight plans include coverage for missed and canceled flights and lost or stolen baggage.

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

Many travel insurance plans contain exclusions for adventure sports activities. If you plan to ski, bungee jump, windsurf or parasail, this might be a plan to consider.

Note that the Standard plan ($72 for our sample trip), while the most affordable, provides less coverage than other plans. But it can be a good choice for travelers who are satisfied with trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $2,500 or less, do not need rental car damage protection, find the limits to be sufficient and do not need coverage for certain more adventurous activities.

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

Coverage available for adventure activities, such as trekking, mountain biking and scuba diving.

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

For starters, basic coverage from Travelex Insurance Services came in at $125, almost exactly average for our sample trip.

Travelex’s plans focus heavily on providing protections that are personalized to your travel style and trip type.

While the company does offer comprehensive plans that include medical benefits, you can also choose between cheaper plans that don’t provide cancellation coverage but do offer protections during your travels.

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Three comprehensive plans available, two of which cover international trips.

Offers a post-departure plan geared exclusively toward disruptions after you leave home.

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

Each Seven Corners plan offers several optional add-ons. Among the more unique is a Trip Interruption for Any Reason, which allows you to interrupt a trip 48 hours after the scheduled departure date (for any reason) and receive a refund of up to 75% of your unused nonrefundable deposits.

» Jump to the best cards with travel insurance

The basic coverage plan for our trip to Mexico costs $124 — right around the average.

What else makes Seven Corners great:

Comprehensive plans for U.S. residents and foreigners, including travelers visiting the U.S.

Cheap add-ons for rental car damage, sporting equipment rental or trip interruption for any reason.

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

• Coverage available for adventure travelers.
• Special medical insurance for ship captains and crew members, international students and missionaries.
• Claim approval can be lengthy.

While some travel insurance companies offer just a handful of plans, with IMG, you’ll really have your pick. Though this requires a bit more research, it allows you to search for coverage that fits your travel needs.

However, travelers will want to be aware that IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite is expensive. Coming in at $149.85, it’s the costliest plan on our list.

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

• In addition Cancel For Any Reason, some plans offer cancel for work reason coverage.
• Adventure sports-specific coverage is available.
• Plans have overlap that can be hard to distinguish.
• Only one plan includes Rental Car Damage coverage available as an add-on.

Tin Leg’s Basic plan came in at $134 for our sample trip, adding about $8 onto the average basic policy cost. Note that you’ll pay a lot more if you shop for the most comprehensive coverage, and there are eight plans to choose from for trips abroad.

The multitude of plans can help you find coverage that fits your needs, but with so many to choose from, deciding can be daunting.

The only real way to figure out your ideal plan is to compare them all, look at the plan details and decide which features and coverage suit you and your travel style best.

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

• Covers up to $300 redepositing points and miles on eligible canceled award flights.
• Optional add-on protection for business equipment or sports rentals.
• Multi-trip or year-long plans aren’t available.

Selecting your travel insurance plan with TravelSafe is a fairly straightforward process. The company’s website also makes it easy to visualize how optional add-on elements influence the total cost, displaying the final price as soon as you click the coverage.

However, at $136, the Basic plan was among the more expensive for our trip to Mexico.

What else makes TravelSafe great:

Rental car damage coverage add-on is available on both plans.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage available on the TravelSafe Classic plan.

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

• Covers travelers up to 95 years old.
• Includes direct pay option so members can avoid having to pay up front for services.
• A 24-hour delay is required for baggage delay coverage on the TripProtector Economy plan.
• No waivers for pre-existing conditions on the lower-level plan.

HTH offers single-trip and multitrip medical insurance coverage as well as trip protection plans.

At around $125, the Trip Protector Economy policy is at the average mark for plans we reviewed.

You can choose to insure group trips for educators, crew, religious missionaries and corporate travelers.

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

As you shop for travel insurance, you’ll find many of the same coverage categories across numerous plans.

Trip cancellation

This covers the prepaid costs you make for your trip in cases when you need to cancel for a covered reason. This coverage helps you recoup upfront costs paid for flights and nonrefundable hotel reservations.

Trip interruption

Trip interruption benefits generally involve disruptions after you depart. It helps reimburse costs incurred for flight delays, cancellations and plenty of other covered disruptions you might encounter during your travels.

This coverage can cover the costs for you to return home or reimburse unexpected expenses like an extra hotel stay, meals and ground transportation.

Trip delay coverage helps cover unexpected costs when your trip is delayed. This is another coverage that helps offset the costs of flight trouble or other travel disruptions.

Note that many policies have a total amount a traveler can claim, with caps on per diem benefits, too.

Cancel For Any Reason

Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to recoup some of the upfront costs you paid for a trip even if you’re canceling for a reason not otherwise covered by your standard travel insurance policy.

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

This coverage helps cover the costs of essential items you might need when your luggage is delayed. Think toiletries, clothing and other immediate items you might need if your luggage didn’t make it on your flight.

Many travel insurance plans with baggage delay protection will specify how long (six, 12, 24 hours, etc.) your luggage must be delayed before you can make a claim.

Lost baggage

Used for travelers whose luggage is lost or stolen, this helps recoup the lost value of the items in your bag.

You’ll want to make sure you closely follow the correct procedures for your plan. Many plans include a maximum total amount you can claim under this coverage and a per-item cap.

Travel medical insurance

This covers out-of-pocket medical costs when travelers run into an emergency.

Because many travelers’ health insurance plans don’t cover medical care overseas, travel medical insurance can help offset out-of-pocket health care costs.

In addition to emergency medical coverage, many plans have medical evacuation or repatriation coverage for costs incurred when you must be taken to a hospital or return to your home country because of a medical situation.

Most travel insurance plans cover many trip protections that can help you be prepared for unexpected travel disruptions and expenses.

These coverages are generally aimed at protecting the money you put into your trip, expenses you incur because of travel trouble and costs incurred if you have a medical emergency overseas.

On top of core coverages like trip cancellation and interruption and travel medical coverage, some plans offer add-on options like waivers for pre-existing conditions, rental car collision damage waivers or adventure sports riders. These usually cost extra or must be added within a specified timeframe.

Typical travel insurance policies offer coverage for many unforeseen events, but as you research to select a plan, consider your needs. Though every plan differs, there are some commonly excluded coverages.

For instance, you typically can’t get coverage for a named storm if you bought the coverage after the storm was named. In other words, if you have a trip to the Caribbean booked for Sept. 25 and on Sept. 20 a hurricane develops and is named, you generally won’t be able to buy a travel insurance plan Sept. 21 in hopes of getting your money back.

Many plans also don’t cover activities performed under the influence of drugs or alcohol or any extreme sports. If the latter applies to you, you might want to consider a plan with specific coverages for adventure-seekers.

For numerous plans, a few other situations don’t qualify as an acceptable reason to cancel and make a claim, such as fear of travel, medical tourism or pregnancies (unless you booked a trip and bought insurance before you became pregnant or there are complications with the pregnancy). This is where a Cancel For Any Reason add-on to your coverage can be helpful.

You can also run into trouble if you give up on a trip too soon: a minor (or even multihour) flight delay likely isn’t sufficient to cancel your entire trip and get reimbursed through your plan. Be sure to review what requirements your specific plan has when it comes to canceling a trip, claiming trip interruption, etc.

Travel insurance costs vary widely. The final price of your plan will fluctuate based on your age, length of trip and destination.

It will also depend on how much coverage you need, whether you add on specialized policies (like Cancel For Any Reason or pre-existing conditions coverage), whether you plan to participate in extreme sports and other factors.

In our examples above, for instance, the 35-year-old traveler taking a $2,000 trip to Italy would have spent an average $76 for a basic plan to get coverage for things like trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, etc. That’s a little less than 4% of the total trip cost — lower than average.

If there were multiple members in a traveling party or if they were going on, say, a rock-climbing or bungee-jumping excursion, the costs would go up.

On average, travel insurance comes to about 5% to 10% of the trip cost. However, considering many of the plans reimburse up to 100% of the trip cost (or more) for disruptions like trip cancellation or interruption, it can be a worthwhile expense if something goes wrong.

It depends. Consider the following factors that might affect your decision: You’re young and healthy, all your bookings are refundable or cancelable without a penalty, your flights are nonstop, you’re not checking bags and a credit card you carry offers some travel protections . In that case, travel insurance might not be necessary.

On the other hand, if you prepaid a large chunk of money for a nonrefundable African safari, you’re going on a Caribbean cruise in the middle of a hurricane season or you’re going somewhere where the cost of health care is high, it’s not a bad idea to buy a travel insurance plan. Here’s how to find the best travel insurance coverage for you.

If you’re thinking of booking a trip and not planning to buy travel insurance, you may want to consider at least booking refundable airfare and not prepaying for hotel, rental car and activity reservations. That way, if something goes wrong, you can cancel without losing any money.

Selecting the best travel insurance policy comes down to your needs, concerns, preferences and budget.

As you book, take a few minutes to consider what most concerns you. Is it getting stranded because of flight trouble? Having the ability to cancel for any reason you see fit without losing money? Getting sick or injured right before departure and needing to postpone the trip? Injuring yourself or falling ill while overseas?

Ultimately, you want a plan that protects you, your money and the large investment in your trip — but doesn’t cost too much, either.

Medical coverage. If your priority is having adequate medical coverage abroad, you might want to look for plans with high limits for medical emergencies and medical evacuation.

Complex travel itinerary. If your itinerary has lots of flight connections, prepaid hotels and deposits for activities you can’t get back, prioritizing a plan with the best coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions may land at the top of your list.

Travel uncertainty. If you’re on the fence about a trip and have nonrefundable reservations, you may want to select a plan with a Cancel For Any Reason coverage option, which can help you recoup about 50% to 75% of the costs. This helps provide peace of mind, placing the decision on whether to travel entirely in your hands.

Car rentals. If you’re renting a car, a collision damage waiver is often worth looking into.

The following destinations are the top insured destinations in 2024, according to Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner).

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

In 2022, travelers spent about 25.53% more on trips than they did before the pandemic.

As of December, NerdWallet analysis determined travel prices are 10% higher than pre-pandemic. Each statistic makes a strong case for protecting your travel investment as you plan your next trip.

Bookmark these resources to help you make smart money moves as you shop for travel insurance.

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

Here is the list of travel cards offered by Chase that include various forms of travel insurance.

Having one of these in your wallet is a good start to protecting your travel investments and preventing expensive accidents; however, savvy travelers check card terms closely and sometimes supplement with a third-party policy, like from one of the companies above, to better protect themselves.

on Chase's 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 12 hours.

• Car rentals: Theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

• Trip interruption: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

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

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight:

Breadth of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered plus the range of their standard plans. 

Depth of coverage: We considered two data points to get a sense of how much each company pays out for common travel issues — the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims.

Cost: By looking at the costs for basic coverage across multiple companies, we determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices against.

Customizability: While standard plans can cover a lot of ground, sometimes you need something a little more personal.

Customer satisfaction. Using data from Squaremouth when available, and Google Reviews as a backup, we can give kudos to companies with better track records from their clients.

No, it doesn’t necessarily get more expensive the longer you wait to purchase. However, as you put off buying insurance, you may lose access to potential plans and coverage options.

In general, buying travel insurance within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

But, generally, many plans do allow you to buy coverage quite close to your departure date.

To get the most out of your travel insurance plan, buy it soon after making your initial prepayment or deposit to ensure you have access to the biggest menu of plans possible.

Select a plan that’s comprehensive enough to cover the travel scenarios you’re most concerned about or likely to encounter but not too expensive or laden with protections you’d never likely need.

Whatever your coverage, thoroughly review the plan so you understand what’s covered and what’s not, plus how to adhere to the plan’s rules for making a claim.

Travelers frequently use phrases like “trip insurance” and “travel insurance,” as well as “trip protection,” interchangeably, but they do mean different things, according to Stan Sandberg, founder of insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com.

Trip insurance, or trip protection, generally refers to predeparture (or preevent) coverage if you need to cancel. You may see these plans sold by airlines, online travel agencies or even ticketed event sellers.

“You could refer to it as the portion that protects the investment in the trip,” Sandberg says.

A travel insurance plan typically includes that — plus more comprehensive benefits to protect you during your trip, from medical coverage to trip delay and lost baggage protections, and many more elements, depending on the plan.

Though travel insurance is typically not required for international trips, your personal circumstances will play a key role in whether it’s a good investment.

For instance, young, healthy travelers with few prepaid trip expenses embarking on a relatively risk-free trip may not see a need to buy a plan.

Older travelers with complicated itineraries who are visiting destinations where they could potentially fall ill or get injured — or who could encounter bad weather or some other disrupting factor along the way — may want to buy coverage.

Consider a few key questions:

How well would your health insurance plan cover you if you needed to visit a hospital overseas?

How much did you prepay for a hotel or rental car?

How much money would you be out if weather or some other flight issue derailed your itinerary?

Could you afford an unexpected night in a city where you have a connecting flight?

Do you already have a credit card that provides some travel protections?

Your answers to these questions can help you decide whether you need travel insurance for your international trip.

In general, buying travel insurance

within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit

for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

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

On a similar note...

Travel Insurance for your holidays in Japan and abroad

Travel insurance for japan.

If your dream vacation is a trip to Japan, you will want to be sure you can enjoy every moment of it even if things do not go as planned. Discover all the ins and outs with this guide to Japan with travel insurance . Will discuss the details on costs, requirements, essential coverage, COVID-19 restrictions, and some handy tips for your trip.  

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

How does Travel Insurance for Japan work?

How much does travel insurance cost for japan.

• Our Suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan

What types of Medical Conditions do AXA Travel Protection Plans cover?

Any covid-19 restrictions for u.s. visitors, what if i have a pre-existing medical condition, how do axa travel protection plans work, what should your travel insurance cover for a trip to japan.

At a minimum, your travel insurance to Japan 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 Japan.

Imagine this: you are exploring Japan’s plethora of vending machines in the city of Tokyo. From ramen noodles to exotic drinks, you can’t help but try it all. Suddenly, you feel queasy and uneasy. The snacks from a vending machine must have been spoiled. With AXA Travel Protection, we can help assist or guide you to the nearest hospital. Whether the situation goes from bad to worse, AXA is there to help you create a plan of action. Here’s how travelers can benefit from an AXA Travel Protection Plan:

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. 

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. 

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. 

In general, travel insurance to Japan 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 Japan 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.

Our suggested AXA Travel Protection Plan

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 Brazilian 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. If you're seeking added protection for your Japan adventure, opt for the Platinum Plan. With the optional Cancel for Any Reason addition, enjoy increased flexibility for unforeseen changes in your travel agenda. Plus, Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver) can offer coverage as you navigate the breathtaking landscapes of Thailand in your rental vehicle.

AXA covers three essential types of medical expenses:

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

Emergency Medical: Can cover medical expenses, hospital stays, and even emergency evacuations, covering the expenses of hefty bills and ensuring access to quality healthcare while away from home.

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: Offers assistance in unexpected situations such as political unrest or natural disasters, ensuring safe and timely relocation to a secure location or repatriation back home. 

There are no restrictions related to COVID-19 for U.S. visitors traveling to or from Japan at this time. U.S. travelers will not have to show proof of COVID-19 testing or vaccination records and you do not have to quarantine either. Regulations change regularly, so it is best to double-check right before you go. For up-to-date information on requirements for COVID-19 and other travel restrictions visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website.

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 Whether your pre-existing medical condition is covered on a travel insurance plan depends on when you were diagnosed with the condition. Any condition you had within 60 days before your policy began is not covered, although if your physician diagnoses you with a condition after the effective date of the policy, your travel insurance coverage applies. NOTE: – Your state of residency may affect your coverage, so be sure to read your policy thoroughly.

Suppose you are traveling from Houston to Japan with a layover in New York City. The snow is pelting down, and the airline cancels your connecting flight in New York. A quick call to AXA's concierge services will get you a referral for a hotel and a ride to get you there. You also get reimbursed for extra expenses like meals, toiletries and other incidental expenses (up to the per-day limit) until you can get a new flight to Japan.

FAQs About International Travel Insurance for Japan

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 for Japan?

It's 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. What is needed to visit Japan from the USA?

To visit Japan, you will need a valid passport for the duration of your stay, a visa (unless you are visa-exempt), an onward or return ticket, and a QR code from the Visit Japan Web website . While travel insurance is not required, it is valuable to have.

4. What happens if a tourist gets sick in Japan?

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

5. Does Japan have free health care for travelers?

No. Japan has a public health care system, but it is not available for tourists.

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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A Practical Guide to Buying Travel Insurance

Travel insurance could be the difference between a huge medical bill or a modest copay. use these tips to find the best policy for your trip..

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It’s far better to buy travel insurance and never use it than to not be covered in an emergency.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

For many, travel insurance seems like an unnecessary additional expense. But if you get stuck in a costly situation—a medical emergency, a canceled trip due to a pandemic , a stolen camera—it suddenly becomes a totally worthwhile investment that saves, not costs, you money.

This was the case for writer Chris Ciolli. After years of traveling without a safety net, she invested in travel insurance on a recent trip during which she was rushed to the hospital at 3 a.m. for a slew of just-in-case tests. She ended up with an underwhelming diagnosis of gastritis, but also a slow trickle of medical bills—a few hundred dollars here, a thousand there—that totaled nearly $6,000. Fortunately, her monthlong $185 World Nomads policy covered everything after an initial $80 copay.

But even if you understand the benefits and you’re committed to buying travel insurance, choosing the right policy for your needs—and even knowing what those needs are—can be tricky. To help you choose the best travel insurance for your trip, we’ve consulted a number of travel agents, insurance industry professionals, and lifelong travelers for advice. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know, from travel insurance reviews and comparisons to common questions answered, to pick the best policy for your next trip.

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a plan, similar to health or auto insurance, that protects you from expenses incurred during unforeseen mishaps while traveling, such as lost luggage, trip cancellations, or medical emergencies.

Although your current homeowner’s, renter’s, auto, or health insurance may cover you for certain things while traveling, it usually doesn’t cover everything—especially on international trips. A good travel insurance plan will cover the gaps.

Where do you get travel insurance?

Some very basic forms of travel insurance are included if you booked your trip with a credit card such as World MasterCard, Capital One Venture Rewards, and Chase Ink and Sapphire cards. With these plans, you may be protected regarding some delay, luggage, and travel accident expenses, but the coverage is usually pretty basic.

You can also purchase it as an add-on while booking flights, cruises, or hotels. These plans are also limited and will only cover you in the event of an unavoidable cancellation due to events such as a natural disaster or a death in your family. “While it may seem less expensive, it may not cover all of the components of your trip,” says Andrew David Harris, vice president and COO of Harris Travel Service . While both of these are better than nothing, the most comprehensive and best travel insurance policies are sold by providers such as World Nomads, Allianz Global Assistance, Seven Corners, or TravelEx. You can purchase these plans through your travel agent, but it’s often less expensive to book directly with the travel insurance provider or through a comparison website, like SquareMouth .

What does travel insurance cover?

Every traveler and trip is different, which is reflected by the variety of travel insurance plans on the market. No matter what plan or provider you choose, below are some common things travel insurance covers. Experts agree that before you buy, you should absolutely look for specific exclusions in the fine print on potential policies. If you’re unsure about something, reach out. A good insurance company will be responsive and willing to clarify your questions.

Trip cancellation and interruption

Most travel insurance policies will include some form of trip cancellation and interruption coverage to reimburse you for nonrefundable expenses, like a prepaid hotel or plane ticket. Unless you add cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance to your plan, there will be a limited set of acceptable reasons to claim this. Illness, death of an immediate family member, and weather are commonly accepted reasons.

Trip delays and missed connections

Also common is reimbursement for additional expenses incurred if a trip is delayed and meets criteria set out by the provider. With World Nomads, your flight must be delayed by at least six hours to qualify.

Baggage and personal effects

Most plans will cover the cost of lost or damaged luggage and personal belongings as well as the cost of purchasing additional items if your luggage is delayed.

Emergency medical and dental care

This covers the cost of medical care when you get sick or have an accident in another country and usually includes medical evacuation. However, travel insurance isn’t a substitute for regular health insurance so nonemergency medical expenses (physicals, anything cosmetic, eye exams) aren’t covered. Childbirth isn’t covered either, even for pregnant travelers who go into labor prematurely.

Shannon O’Donnell, 2013 National Geographic Traveler of the Year and blogger at A Little Adrift , mentions another coverage gap travelers miss: “You’re only covered for what you’re licensed to do back home—if you don’t have a permit for a motorbike and you drive one in Southeast Asia, you might not be covered in an accident.”

Emergency medical evacuation

This covers the cost of an emergency transfer (in an ambulance or helicopter, for example) from an area with inadequate medical care to the nearest medical center with the services you need. It’s costlier but essential in isolated and politically unstable parts of the world.

Accidental death and dismemberment and repatriation

Experts say that “truckloads of coverage for hospital costs and medical repatriation home” are the most important things to look for. “The rest is just window dressing.” A lot of basic plans won’t include this in their coverage, but you can easily add this on with an upgrade to a more premium tier.

Concierge and 24/7 service

Daniel Durazo, director of Marketing and Communications for Allianz Global Assistance , says that “a good policy includes a 24/7 contact line for both medical and travel emergencies.”

Common travel insurance add-ons to consider

A basic plan is usually enough for most travelers, but it may not cover everything you need if you’re older, have pre-existing medical conditions, participate in sports while traveling, book an expensive trip, or travel with expensive gear (such as a high-end camera). If you fall into any of these categories, consider an add-on or upgrade.

Upgrade lost luggage, trip delay, and cancellation amounts

“Standard travel insurance levels cover more modest belongings and lodging,” advises Annette Stellhorn, president and Group Luxury Travel designer at Accent on Travel . If you’re traveling with expensive gear or spending a lot on your trip, consider upgrading to a tier that covers your costs adequately.

Additional coverage for adventure and high-risk travel

Stellhorn also notes that adventure and high-risk travel “require higher benefit amounts for medical evacuation, which can run more than $250,000.” And Judy Perl at Judy Perl Worldwide Travel says that “most insurance companies will not insure high-risk travel at all, with the exception of big companies like First Allied and Travelex .” Even fewer risky activities and sports may only be covered to a limit: that is, climbing to certain heights and diving to certain depths.

Most sports are covered up to a certain level of intensity; any higher and you may have to purchase a different tier of insurance. World Nomads, for example, will cover a slew of adventure travel activities and sports, but at an additional cost on top of its basic insurance.

Cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance

It’s important to read the fine print of any insurance plan because, even if it includes trip cancellation coverage, this often only kicks in under certain circumstances. As many travelers found out recently, trips canceled due to the recent coronavirus pandemic were not covered unless they had a CFAR add-on .

Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg, co-owner and copresident at Valerie Wilson Travel , explains that these plans “only cover 75 percent of trip expenses [and only] if travelers cancel their trips at least 48 hours in advance.”

Does travel insurance cover pandemics?

No. “Once actual events have unfolded, such as the coronavirus outbreak, they are considered known or foreseeable events and are no longer covered by most travel insurance policies,” says Afar’s Michelle Baran . The exception is if you chose to upgrade your plan to include a CFAR add-on.

What are the best travel insurance policies?

The best travel insurance policy will depend on you and your trip. You’ll want to make sure you have a plan that covers the cost of your entire trip and the activities you want to do and won’t leave you in the dark if you have preexisting conditions. The following are some of the best travel insurance partners to consider:

Best for: Older travelers and those with preexisting conditions.

While Allianz provides great travel insurance for any traveler, it’s especially appropriate for those with pre-existing conditions, since those are covered in every one of its plans. However, its basic coverage only covers up to $500 in lost or damaged baggage, so consider an upgrade if you’re traveling with more expensive equipment.

Get a quote: allianztravelinsurance.com

Best for: Medical coverage only

GeoBlue’s Voyager basic medical coverage is not a comprehensive travel insurance plan that covers a slew of scenarios; rather it provides travelers with basic medical travel insurance. The deductible is a high $500, but at $19 to $35 per trip, it’s an inexpensive way to protect yourself in case something catastrophic happens. If you’re adequately covered for travel mishaps like lost luggage or stolen goods by other insurance (like your credit card or homeowner’s insurance), this might be the plan for you.

Get a quote: geobluetravelinsurance.com

Best for: Traveling with kids

With TravelEx, travelers can choose between a basic or select travel insurance package with options to customize it according to their needs. Both plans cover standard things like trip cancellation and emergency medical services and are an all-around comprehensive option. However, its Travel Select plan also includes free coverage for any children under 17 traveling with you. For families, TravelEx Select is a great money-saving option.

Get a quote: travelexinsurance.com

How much does travel insurance cost?

Complete travel insurance packages can cost as little as $8 per day but vary depending on the length of the trip, destination(s), and the tier of travel insurance you choose. Some, but not all, travel insurance may also cost more for travelers with pre-existing conditions or older adults.

As a comparison, here are some examples of travel insurance costs for a 45-year-old traveler on a $5,000, one-week trip to Mexico:

• $138 for an explorer plan with World Nomads
• $179 for a basic plan with Allianz
• $248 for an essential plan with AIG
• $261 for a basic plan with Travelex

While some of these plans may seem expensive, keep in mind that if they provide you the coverage you need, they can be a huge money saver. Insurer World Nomads says that its average claim amount for 2017 was $1,634, and its most expensive claim—a medical evacuation of a child from Sitka, Alaska, to Seattle—was nearly $200,000. Suddenly, that $8 per day makes travel insurance worth it . But, as Michael Holtz, founder and CEO of the travel agency SmartFlyer , says, “People don’t think they need it until they need it.”

How do I buy travel insurance?

You should always buy travel insurance from an official, reputable provider or website, such as purchasing directly through the insurance provider, a travel agent, or a comparison website; these “offer a way to search, compare, and purchase from a wide array of plans,” says Stan Sandberg, cofounder of TravelInsurance.com .

Comparison sites to buy travel insurance include:

• Travelinsurance.com
• SquareMouth
• Insuremytrip

Sandberg strongly recommends consumers speak with a licensed agent when they are unsure about benefits. The website Elliott Report is another good resource and features a list of reputable travel insurance companies compiled by consumer advocate Christopher Elliott.

When to buy travel insurance

Generally, you should book your travel insurance as soon as you can after booking your flights and hotels. If you’re traveling to a destination affected by hurricanes , book sooner rather than later, because you can’t buy insurance to cover delays or cancellations related to a storm that already has a name.

People with preexisting conditions need to consider other factors. Most insurers will cover only expenses related to prior illnesses in very specific circumstances; travelers with preexisting conditions must book coverage within a specific time frame, usually between 14 and 21 days, following their initial trip reservation, and they must be medically able to travel on the date they purchase the insurance.

Your travel insurance policy period should be for the duration of your trip from door to door (no gaps or shortcuts, please) and cover you for every place you plan to visit, whether it’s in-state, out-of-state, or international. Some destinations are at higher risk than others, so insurers don’t offer the same coverage for the same price everywhere.

What does your existing insurance cover while traveling?

While your existing health, auto, renter’s, or homeowner’s insurance may cover a few things while you’re traveling, it likely doesn’t cover everything.

• Health insurance: Many U.S. health-care policies, including Medicare, don’t cover travelers on international trips. Some plans will cover you abroad, so check with your provider. If your health insurance only covers you domestically, both the Centers for Disease Control and the U.S. State Department recommend purchasing medical travel insurance.
• Travel insurance: Credit cards can provide limited coverage of some delay, luggage, and travel accident expenses, as well as part of your rental car insurance.
• Homeowner’s and renter’s insurance: Home contents or rental insurance may cover some lost, stolen, or damaged valuables or even offer a reasonably priced floater policy (an add-on to your regular policy that covers easily moveable property) if you travel with expensive equipment.
• Auto insurance: Within the United States, your primary auto insurance will almost always cover rental vehicles. There are a few exceptions for domestic rentals, like if your current auto insurance has low coverage limits. International car rentals are a different story. In Mexico, for example, rental car insurance is mandatory , even if you have insurance at home. Always be sure to check local rules before you reserve a rental car.

Tips for filing claims and getting reimbursed

Unlike most domestic health insurance policies, travel insurance doesn’t typically have a deductible. Some inexpensive policies will require you to pay a small, nonrefundable, initial policy excess amount before further costs up to the benefit limit are covered. Many policies work on a reimbursement plan: You pay upfront, save your receipts, and file a claim, then after processing, your insurance company pays you back for covered expenses.

Most policies require you pay non-emergency expenses out of pocket and submit your claim for reimbursement afterward. In a non-life-threatening emergency, call your insurer for instruction if you’re able; it will make the claims process easier, and the insurer may be able to direct you to a hospital or medical center where your care can be billed directly to it.

Hannah Logan, of the blog Eat Sleep Breathe Travel , says this step is especially important because the small print on many policies “reads that calling the contact number [may be] a requirement for coverage.”

No matter what, document everything. Whether it’s lost baggage, a medical expense, or damage to your rental car, gather and keep anything that can help your claims case: your original rental car agreement, receipts, photos, medical paperwork, a copy of your boarding pass.

Buying travel insurance is a little like packing a suitcase: It can seem overwhelming at first, but eventually it becomes routine and a necessary part of every trip. Once it does, you can travel worry-free, secure in the knowledge that you’ve saved yourself from a possible $6,000 mistake.

This article originally appeared online in 2018; it was updated on June 19, 2020, and on May 15, 2024, to include current information.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

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Yahoo Finance

Best travel insurance plans for 2024: a unique and comprehensive list for travelers from international citizens insurance.

Including the Best Plans for Seniors, Global Nomads, Visitors to the USA, Pets, Adventure Sports Addicts and More

BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 2, 2024 / International Citizens Insurance, a leading international insurance broker, has announced the best travel insurance plans for 2024 summer travel. As the cost of airfare and hotels continues to rise along with the increase in flight delays and cruise cancellations, this list could not have come at a better time for travelers looking to protect their travel plans and their finances.

"This summer's travel season promises a high level of demand, increasing costs, and a strong potential for travel disruptions due to political unrest, weather, and other factors," said Joe Cronin, President of International Citizens Insurance. "Our clients want travel insurance they can trust to help them if they suffer a cancellation, a medical emergency, lost luggage, a natural disaster, or have to change plans due to unforeseen events. With this list, they will be able to find the best overall travel insurers as well as the right plans for their individual needs."

International Citizens Insurance judged each company and plan on six key criteria: the user-friendliness of their site, the ease of policy purchase, the number of countries plans are offered in, how extensive the benefits are, the ease of making a claim and the quality of the company's customer service. The most trusted insurers include WorldTrips , who made history as one of the first insurers to offer plans for purchase over the internet; GeoBlue Travel Insurance , which supports seniors with coverage for people up to 84 years old; and Trawick International, which offers coverage for over 500 adventure sports activities.

To help customers find the best insurance for their specific needs, International Citizens Insurance has also identified the best insurance for several use cases, including Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) insurance, travel medical plans, and insurance with coverage for pets. International Citizens Insurance has also identified the best plans for clients with special needs, including seniors, missionaries and volunteers, U.S. citizens abroad, and digital nomads.

In today's unpredictable world, travel insurance has become the most essential accessory for any international traveler. Travelers want trip cancellation insurance to protect their trip and travel medical insurance plans to protect their health. But with so many companies out there, which ones can you trust?

Learn more about the best travel insurance companies at https://www.internationalinsurance.com/travel-insurance/best-companies.php .

About International Citizens Insurance

International Citizens Insurance is the insurance division of International Citizens Group. We provide educational content, reviews, and unique comparison engines that enable travelers and expatriates to research, quote, compare, and purchase global life, travel, and international health insurance from various carriers.

Contact Information

Joe Cronin President [email protected] 617-500-6738

Andrew Blomberg Vice President, Global Group Benefits [email protected] (339) 221-5190

SOURCE: International Citizens Insurance

View the original press release on newswire.com.

FinanceBuzz

8 Reasons It’s Worth It To Buy Travel Insurance (And 6 Times To Skip It)

Posted: July 12, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

Life is full of unexpected events and complications, and that doesn’t stop just because you’re traveling. If anything, travel may have even more surprises than your day-to-day life at home.

Travel insurance can help you avoid wasting money if you have to cancel a trip due to illness, need medical coverage while you’re traveling, or send you home for medical reasons.

However, it may not always be necessary and can sometimes be a waste of money. Keep reading to learn when you should and shouldn’t opt for travel insurance.

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Safety net for international travel

The number one reason people buy travel insurance is to cover an expensive trip. And if you’re traveling overseas, chances are your travels will cost a lot of money.

In addition, there are potential complications when it comes to international travel, from losing luggage during connecting flights, missed or canceled flights, sickness, and more.

And if something catastrophic happens in a foreign country, travel insurance provides evacuation so you can get home safely.

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Medical coverage

Getting sick or injured is unpleasant enough when you’re in the comfort of your home, but it’s a new beast entirely when you’re abroad.

Generally, you can expect basic medical expenses to be covered through your travel plan, often including dental. Medicare will not cover medical expenses in a foreign country. If you’re traveling overseas, travel insurance for potential medical costs is worthwhile.

Cover rental car mishaps

Renting a car is a great way to get around when traveling because you can explore a place on your own. Using taxis or ride-share services may cost more money. However, even the best drivers make mistakes, and no one can protect themselves from reckless drivers.

Your U.S. car insurance won’t cover you when driving in a foreign country. So choosing the car-rental insurance option when you buy travel insurance may be a good move.

Be aware that most travel insurance rental-car plans cover collisions and may not cover medical expenses, damages to other cars or property, or personal property damage or loss.

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Pre-existing conditions often aren’t covered

Unfortunately, as with many health insurance plans, travel insurance often won’t cover pre-existing conditions. Travel health insurance is usually meant for unforeseen illnesses or injuries instead of complications due to an existing medical issue.

Even travel insurance companies that cover pre-existing issues often only cover physical maladies and exclude mental conditions and typical pregnancy-related symptoms and complications.

Protect lost luggage

A big fear for travelers is losing their luggage, either having it not arrive at the destination or stolen during their trip. Most airlines will offer reimbursement for luggage they lose, but it can take quite a while for this to process.

Travel insurance will cover the cost of replacing your clothing and other items while you wait for your luggage to be located and can also cover theft and damage.

Cover valuable items and gear

You should consider buying travel insurance if you’re traveling with valuables, including expensive jewelry, art, or even pricey sporting or adventure gear.

You’ll need to talk to the insurance agency specifically about covering your valuables, as they may need to be insured separately. Depending on your homeowners insurance policy, your jewelry may be covered even when you travel.

Sporting goods, including golf clubs, will not be covered by your homeowners insurance if you’re traveling, so you will need travel insurance to replace them if they’re lost, damaged, or stolen.

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Emergencies happen

While we do our best to prepare for the worst-case scenario, we can’t stop life from happening. Things like medical emergencies, a death in the family, or other catastrophes can halt your travel plans.

If you have travel insurance, rescheduling or cancellation fees will be covered, allowing you to deal with the emergency at your own pace. You won’t have to worry about losing the money spent on the trip and subsequent fees.

Natural disaster coverage

Are you planning a fall trip to the Gulf Coast or Florida? Consider your travel destination and the time of year you're going.

If you’re visiting someplace prone to natural disasters, especially seasonal occurrences like tornadoes, hurricanes, wildfires, and such, travel insurance can help you recoup your money should these events interrupt your travel plans.

Similarly, if a natural disaster occurs during your trip, often, insurance will pay to move you to a more secure location.

Extreme adventures may not be covered

Your insurance will most likely cover typical travel-related injuries but don't expect your medical bills to be covered if your itinerary involves extreme adventures or dangerous exploits.

Surfing, sailing, kayaking, bungee jumping, scuba diving, skiing, snowboarding, and other extreme sports do not fall into everyday illnesses or injuries. For these activities, consider getting a specific plan for adventure activities.

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Shaky travel companies

If you booked your trip through a travel company and it goes bankrupt, travel insurance may provide a safety net to ensure you get your money back.

Airlines, cruise ships, travel companies, and other travel-related businesses suffered during the pandemic, and many may not be on solid financial ground yet.

This may not be covered in a basic insurance plan, so make sure your agent adds financial default coverage if you are concerned about the health of your travel provider. 

In the situation any company or organization closes or is otherwise inoperable during your trip, you’ll be covered.

Now let’s look at times you may not need travel insurance.

Your credit card offers travel protections

Before purchasing travel insurance, consider which credit card you have. Many of the top credit cards  offer travel protections.

Some protections you may already have include lost luggage, rental car insurance, trip delay, and trip interruption or cancellation.

Credit card programs often don’t cover medical or other interruptions, so consider your priorities before choosing this option.

You have a domestic trip

If you’re traveling within the U.S. and its territories, travel insurance may not be necessary. For example, you won’t need medical coverage as your health insurance should be honored nationwide.

Domestic travel is also usually much less expensive. If you’re taking a cheap, last-minute, or nonstop flight and staying at an inexpensive hotel or rental, the cost of travel insurance may not be worth it.

One exception might be a family trip to Disney World. The estimate for a trip for a family of four in 2023 is more than $6,000, so travel insurance might be money well spent in this case.

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Don’t add expense to cheap trips

Not all travel is planned. Whether traveling for work, a family emergency, or just a last-minute vacation, you likely don’t need insurance in these circumstances. Odds are, you’re packing light, and both your flight and hotel are relatively inexpensive.

In these scenarios, the things insurance covers won’t be relevant, including baggage loss, flight cancellations, hotel issues, and so on. 

Not only will these costs likely be minimal, but they can be disputed with your airline or hotel, although it may take a little while to get your money back.

The airline has a flexible rebooking policy

If you’re buying travel insurance to cover the cost of rescheduling a flight, you’re better off purchasing a refundable ticket at a higher price. And some airlines have more flexible policies now.

Many airlines allow last-minute ticket changes and will even help you reschedule your flight within a specific timeframe. The timeframe and policy vary by airline, and you may be subject to a nominal cancellation or rebooking fee, but it will be significantly less than insurance.

Insurance will not cover political unrest

One emergency situation insurance probably won’t cover is war or political unrest. If you’re visiting a location with political tensions and your trip is canceled as a result, don’t expect your insurance to cover the costs.

Insurance companies generally follow the travel advisories the U.S. State Department issued for medical and political situations.

Similarly, insurance won't cover these costs if you have to leave your trip early for safety concerns. Consider your destination's political environment before booking your travel or buying insurance.

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Your hotel may cover cancellations

Many hotel cancellation policies have tiers depending on the booking you make. For example, some may have free cancellation within a specific period, while others charge different rates for rooms booked as non-refundable or partially refundable.

If your sole reason for purchasing insurance is hotel flexibility, consult with the hotel before you book. They may have a policy as flexible as your insurance or can work with you should something unexpected arise.

Penalty-free cancellations for major hotels tend to be around 24-48 hours prior to arrival.

Bottom line

Travel insurance may be pricey, but it’s a lifesaver in many situations. However, in others, it’s overkill and a waste of money.

Every travel situation is different, so consider your specific needs when purchasing. And, if you want more money to cover your insurance, consider these ways to make extra cash for travel funds.

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Six Travel Mistakes to Avoid

No travel medical insurance? Unnecessary luggage and hotel fees? Here are the biggest travel mistakes people make and how you can avoid them.

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Even the most seasoned tourists can make travel mistakes when planning a vacation. Some blunders can be minor infractions, but others can cost travelers a lot of money and heartache. 

But there are steps you can take to avoid travel mistakes. Here are six slip ups that travelers may make this year, plus tips on how to avoid them.

1. Overlooking travel medical insurance

Christopher Elliott , a consumer advocate and founder of the nonprofit Elliott Advocacy , says many people don’t consider purchasing travel medical insurance . “People often think nothing bad will happen before or on their vacation, but then they get injured overseas and need to go to the hospital, and the next thing they’re looking at is a $10,000 hospital bill.” Indeed, nearly one in four Americans report they’ve experienced a medical issue while traveling abroad, according to a 2023 survey sponsored by GeoBlue, an international health insurance company. 

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Unfortunately, most U.S. healthcare plans — including employer group plans, Medicare and Affordable Care Act plans — offer limited or no medical coverage outside the U.S. 

How to avoid: One solution is to purchase a travel medical insurance policy, a type of insurance that provides coverage for a range of medical emergencies while traveling abroad, from minor injuries to major events like heart attacks and strokes, to medical evacuation and emergency transport in the case of severe emergencies. 

The average travel medical insurance plan costs $89, according to Squaremouth , a travel insurance comparison website. Squaremouth advises international travelers to obtain a policy that provides a minimum of $50,000 in emergency medical coverage and at least $100,000 in medical evacuation coverage. 

Note: Some travel insurance policies include emergency medical coverage and medical evacuation coverage up to certain limits.

2. Getting hit with unnecessary luggage fees

You may have heard that a number of airlines — including American Airlines , Delta , and JetBlue Airways — recently raised their prices for checked bags. But one thing a lot of travelers aren’t aware of, Elliott says, is that some are now charging customers more if they check a bag at the airport versus paying to check a bag in advance. For instance, JetBlue customers flying within the U.S., Latin America, the Caribbean and Canada can save up to $20 on their first two checked bags ($10 savings per bag) when they add them to their flight reservation at least 24 hours before departure.

How to avoid: Make sure to pay ahead of time for any bags that you plan to check.

3. Incurring hidden hotel fees

Wi-Fi fees, early check-in fees, gym fees—hotels today charge guests no shortage of extra fees and surcharges . It’s a widespread problem: In an April 2023 survey by Consumer Reports , nearly four out of 10 (37%) U.S. adults said they had experienced a hidden or unexpected hotel fee in the previous two years.

How to avoid: Many hotels offer to reduce or, in some cases, waive certain fees to guests who join their loyalty program, which is free in most cases. Also, sometimes simply asking an employee at check-in to waive certain fees could do the trick.

4. Not utilizing a key search feature on Airbnb

Like hotels, Airbnb rental property owners often tack on extra fees, such as cleaning fees, fees for additional guests beyond a certain number, and service fees. These additional costs can add hundreds of dollars to your bill.

How to avoid: Elliott praised Airbnb for introducing a feature in December 2022 that allows guests to view a stay’s total costs, before taxes, when searching for rental properties. But he says there’s a caveat: “If you’re in the U.S., you need to change a setting in order to see the full rate when you search for rentals.”

To enable the feature, click the slider on the upper right of the search page that says, “Display total before taxes.”

5. Paying full price for a rental car

First, the good news: “The rental vehicle shortage has improved,” Elliott says. That’s resulted in a stabilization of rates, with rental car prices recently averaging $42 a day, up only 3% from last year, according to a report from the travel search company Hopper. The bad news? Renting a car is still more expensive than it was before the pandemic, especially for travelers who pay full freight.

How to avoid: There are several ways you can avoid paying full price. Big-box stores such as Costco , BJ’s and Sam’s Club provide their members discounts on certain rental cars. AARP and AAA also offer their members discounted rates. ( AARP members save up to 30% on base rates at Avis and Budget Rent A Car; AAA members save up to 20% on Hertz rentals). In addition, a number of credit card companies offer certain cardholders rental car discounts when they book a vehicle from specific rental car companies.

You may also be able to nab a lower rate by prepaying when you book a reservation. And, some rental car companies offer limited-mileage plans at a lower cost, which could be a good option if you’re planning to take just a short trip.

Tip: See if your credit card offers rental car insurance before you pay for insurance from a rental car company.

6. Encountering sky-high hotel rates because of Taylor Swift’s European tour

When Taylor Swift performs a concert, sometimes tens of thousands of out-of-town fans descend on the city, causing hotel prices to spike. Consider: the median rate for a standard hotel room during an Eras Tour date in Europe this year is projected to jump by 44%, with average hotel room prices in Warsaw surging a staggering 154% during her tour date there, according to a recent study by Lighthouse , a travel and hospitality research company.

How to avoid: The simplest approach for Europe-bound travelers in 2024, Elliott says, is to avoid traveling to a destination during a Taylor Swift tour date in that city. “When Taylor Swift comes to town all of the hotels sell out, and it becomes very difficult to find a reasonably priced hotel,” he says.

Related Content

• 24 Best Travel Websites to Find Deals and Save You Money
• Five Ways to a Cheap Last-Minute Vacation
• Best Travel Rewards Cards May 2024

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Daniel Bortz is a freelance writer based in Arlington, Va. His work has been published by The New York Times, The Washington Post, Consumer Reports, Newsweek, and Money magazine, among others.  

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