Best Travel Insurance For USA Trips

Planning for a trip to the USA soon? From exploring the iconic streets of New York City to marvelling at the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon, driving along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, or enjoying the vibrant culture of New Orleans, the USA offers endless adventures for every traveller. However, it’s crucial to be prepared for unexpected situations by securing comprehensive travel insurance. Whether it’s protecting yourself against earthquakes, tsunamis, or flight accidents, having the right travel insurance coverage ensures a worry-free experience in the land of opportunity.

Travel Requirements to Enter the USA

To travel to the USA as a tourist, you’ll need to apply for a visa unless you’re from one of the countries which are on visa exemption agreements under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), with the USA. At the moment, Singaporean passport holders can travel to the USA for tourism or a visit for 90 days or less, i.e. for family or transit or medical treatments, without a visa under the VWP.

Before you apply for a visa, you may wish to utilise the Visa Wizard by the U.S. Department of State, to find out which type of visa is appropriate for you. Thereafter, you may apply for the visa either online or in person, about 3 months or more in advance, before your expected travel date.

Do note that travel to the United States under the VWP still requires ESTA approval, which means you still have to submit your ESTA application on the US Department of Homeland Security website. You may submit your ESTA application any time prior to your travel date, although it is recommended to apply as soon as you book your accommodations, or buy flight tickets. Here are the common types of visa which you can apply for:

• Transit

• Tourism & Visit

• Study & Exchange

• Business

• Employment

How to Choose Travel Insurance for Your USA Trip?

When choosing a travel insurance plan for your trip to the USA, there are many factors to consider to ensure you have sufficient coverage. If you haven't already secured a plan with COVID-19 coverage, you may want to look into adding this benefit to an existing policy or purchasing it as a standalone feature. Here are 5 steps to help you get started:

1. Check if your plan provides adequate coverage

While the cost of your travel insurance is important, it's crucial to focus on the level of coverage it offers. Make sure the policy covers essential areas such as overseas medical expenses, trip cancellations, flight delays, and loss or damage to baggage. The reimbursement limits should also align with your travel needs, especially in case of unexpected events.

2. Get insured for any pre-existing conditions

If you or any family members have pre-existing medical conditions, ensure you get coverage for them. Some insurers offer this, including coverage for conditions like pregnancy, injuries, or illnesses that arise during your trip, particularly if you contract COVID-19. Additionally, getting a policy with COVID-19 coverage will help cover in-patient hospital expenses overseas, medical evacuation, and repatriation costs.

3. Do a comparison of policy premiums

The total premium for your travel insurance will depend on factors such as your destination and length of stay. Most insurers offer multiple tiers of plans at varying price points, each providing different levels of comprehensiveness and reimbursement limits. Be sure to compare these options to find one that best fits your budget and needs.

4. Consider coverage of sporting activities

If your USA trip involves sports or outdoor activities like water sports or extreme adventures, make sure your adventure travel insurance covers them. For example, if you're planning to skydive or paraglide in California, choose a policy that includes coverage for aerial sports and other adventure activities.

5. Ensure coverage for trip disruptions and baggage loss/damage.

Given that the USA is prone to many natural disasters such as typhoons, snowstorms and earthquakes, it’s wise to choose a policy that covers trip cancellations, delays, and damage or loss of your baggage due to such events. This added protection will provide peace of mind in case your travel plans are disrupted.

Compare Travel Insurance Plans for Your USA Trip On MoneySmart

How Will Travel Insurance Cover Me in the Event of Natural Disasters or Unexpected Events?

Baggage & personal belongings coverage

When traveling to the USA, protecting your baggage and personal belongings is essential, especially in cases of natural disasters or adverse weather conditions. Coverage typically includes compensation for loss due to unforeseen events, but limits apply per item or category, so it's crucial to review the policy details for maximum protection.

Trip curtailment, cancellation or travel delay coverage

For travellers facing unexpected cancellations or delays before or during their USA trip, certain travel insurance plans provide reimbursement for irrecoverable pre-paid transport and accommodation expenses. These reimbursements cover costs if your trip is disrupted due to unforeseen events such as natural disasters or extreme weather, with claims typically processed for cancellations made within 30 days prior to departure.

Medical costs coverage

Accidents or injuries during your USA trip, especially those resulting from natural disasters, may be covered by insurers like Singlife and FWD. Some of their travel insurance plans include the “Cancel for any reason” benefit, and even include overseas medical expenses and even post-trip medical treatment back in Singapore. Coverage depends on your policy's terms, so ensure that any medical treatment is administered within the specified time frame and that reimbursement limits align with your plan's conditions. Always check with your insurance provider for specific details on medical coverage.