For many travelers, especially casual or leisure travelers, obtaining an insurance policy before a trip is often seen as optional. However, due to the risks of property loss, illness, injury, and emergencies, more travelers are considering insurance coverage.

This shift is particularly notable among frequent travelers such as business people, expatriates, and students overseas. The critical question arises: Is travel insurance necessary, or is it based on local customs?

Why You Need Travel Insurance

Travel insurance acts as a safety net, protecting against financial losses from unexpected events like accidents, cancellations, or lost baggage. Possessing insurance ensures reimbursement for expenses in case of sudden travel plan changes.

Is Travel Insurance Mandatory?

The requirement for travel insurance varies by destination. For example, between 2021 to mid-2022, Singapore mandated proof of insurance for entry, a rule repealed in 2022, although frequent visitors continue to recommend coverage.

In 2025, several countries began enforcing travel insurance requirements at immigration. Countries like Argentina have instituted insurance mandates to alleviate the burden on their health systems caused by uninsured visitors. Within the Schengen Area, travelers must show proof of medical coverage when applying for visas.

Better Safe Than Sorry

Past events, such as natural disasters, underscored the importance of travel insurance. Those who had coverage received assistance despite being unable to contact their embassies.

Protecting oneself from potential threats, such as civil unrest or health crises, is crucial. Ensuring you have the right insurance can provide peace of mind, especially during unpredictable situations.