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Best Travel Insurance Plan in Hong Kong
MoneyHero has compared a few travel insurance products based on their characteristics for you to select the most suitable product according to your own needs.
| Plan Name | Single/Annual | Major Coverage | Other Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allianz Travel Protector Plus - Advanced | Single |
Additional coverage for rental vehicle excess, suitable for self-driving tours
|
COVID-19 coverage, including Overseas medical expenses and Emergency Medical Assistance |
| Zurich Get "Z" Go Travel Insurance Plan - Supreme Plan | Single | Each adult can enjoy one accompanied child | Zurich Care Protection covers people, pets and home contents in Hong Kong during the extended period if your trip is interrupted |
| SmartTraveller Plus - Superior Plan | Single | No upper age limit provided the insured person is at least 30 days old. Automatically extend the period of insurance for a maximum of 10 days if an insured person is unavoidably delayed from returning abroad | COVID-19 coverage of additional transportation and accommodation costs up to HK$50,000 |
| Generali Bravo Travel Protector (Standard Plan) (Annual) | Annual | No deductibles, you won’t need to carry any costs | Medical Expenses cover poisoning (e.g. gas or food) and infectious diseases (e.g. COVID-19, SARS, Bird Flu, Dengue Fever) |
| MSIG i-Travel Plus (annual) Plan A | Annual | Cover Amateur Dangerous Sports | HK$500 daily cash benefit (up to 10 days) if the insured person is quarantined or hospitalized overseas as a result of being diagnosed with COVID-19 |
What Does Travel Insurance Cover in Hong Kong?
Travel insurance safeguards you from unexpected events during your journey in Hong Kong. From medical emergencies to trip cancellations, it covers a range of incidents, helps you avoid financial losses, and ensures assistance when you need it the most.
Medical Expense
Covers medical costs for illness or injury while travelling, including follow-up care in Hong Kong. Travel insurance includes hospital stays, doctor consultations, and emergency medical evacuations.
- Hospitalisation after a serious fall
- Medical evacuation in case of a severe illness
- Follow-up doctor visits upon returning to Hong Kong
Trip Cancellation or Delay
- Provides compensation for cancellations or delays caused by illness, injury, adverse weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. It reimburses non-refundable travel expenses like flights, hotels, and tours
- Trip cancellation due to a family emergency
- Flight delay caused by a typhoon
- Missed connecting flights due to technical issues
Loss of Personal Belongings
Covers loss, theft, or damage to personal items, including baggage, money, and travel documents. This helps recover costs for essential items or replacements during the trip. - Lost luggage at the airport
- Stolen passport during the trip
Personal Accident
- Offers a lump-sum payment for accidental death or permanent disability during the journey. This financial compensation helps support the insured or their beneficiaries.
- Compensation for permanent disability from a skiing accident
- Accidental death benefit for beneficiaries
Personal Liability
Protects against legal claims for accidentally injuring others or damaging their property while travelling. It covers legal expenses and compensation costs.- Injuring someone while participating in sports activities
- Causing damage to hotel property
High-Risk Sports Coverage
Optional add-on for adventurous activities like skiing, scuba diving, or trekking. It covers injuries or emergencies related to high-risk sports.- Coverage for injuries sustained while skiing
- Medical expenses for scuba diving accidents
- Evacuation during high-altitude trekking emergencies
What Does Travel Insurance Not Cover in Hong Kong?
While travel insurance offers broad protection, some exclusions apply. In Hong Kong, certain scenarios and activities are typically not covered. Knowing these exclusions helps you avoid unexpected costs during your trip.
Outbound Travel Alert / Terrorist Attack
Coverage exclusions apply when travelling to countries under Outbound Travel Alert (Amber, Red, or Black). Incidents related to terrorism are also often excluded, depending on the policy’s terms.
- Travelling to a country with a Red Alert due to political unrest
- Cancelled trip due to a terrorist attack at the destination
- Medical expenses from injuries related to a terrorist incident
Self-Driving Tours
Third-party liability coverage usually does not extend to self-driving tours with rental vehicles. Additionally, rental vehicle excess is often excluded or limited in most travel insurance policies. - Damages to a rental car during a road trip
- Liability costs for accidents while driving a rented vehicle
- Personal injury expenses from a self-driving accident
Consideration When Comparing Travel Insurance Policy
Choosing the right travel insurance in Hong Kong is about more than just comparing prices. It involves understanding the different types of coverage and matching them to your travel needs. Here are key factors to consider before making a decision.
Single vs. Annual Travel Insurance Plan
A Single Trip Plan is ideal for those who travel occasionally or take short vacations. It covers one specific journey, making it a cost-effective choice if you only travel once or twice a year.
On the other hand, an Annual Travel Insurance Plan is designed for frequent flyers, providing coverage for unlimited trips within a year. This option is often more economical for business travellers or anyone who travels at least three times annually.
When comparing these plans, consider the frequency of your trips and the destinations you visit to determine which offers better value for money.
Add-on Coverage
Travel insurance policies can be customised with optional add-ons to suit specific needs. These may include high-risk sports coverage, rental vehicle excess, or winter sports protection. If you plan to go skiing, scuba diving, or engage in other adventurous activities, select a policy with appropriate sports coverage that ensures you are fully protected. Additionally, some insurers offer specialised add-ons for business travellers, such as coverage for lost laptops or important documents.
Limit and Excess Checking
Policy limits and excess amounts significantly impact how much you can claim and what out-of-pocket expenses you might incur.
For example, there are limits on medical expenses, personal belongings, and trip cancellations, which vary by insurer and plan type. Excess is the portion you must pay before the insurance covers the rest. If your policy has a HK$3,000 excess on medical claims, you are responsible for the first HK$3,000 out-of-pocket.
How to Claim Travel Insurance
Filing a claim for travel insurance in Hong Kong is straightforward if you follow the correct steps. Understanding the process prevents delays and issues. Here’s how to do it smoothly.
- Step 1: Check the Time Limit
Most insurers require claims to be filed within 21 to 30 days from the incident date. Check your policy’s timeframe and start the process promptly to avoid rejection. - Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Collecting the right documents is crucial for a successful claim. Requirements vary by claim type:
1. Medical Claims: Medical reports, receipts, and boarding passes.
2. Flight Delay/Baggage Loss: Flight tickets, delay confirmation, and expense receipts.
3. Lost/Damaged Belongings: Proof of ownership, purchase receipts, and a police report (if needed). - Step 3: Complete and Submit the Claim Form
Download the claim form from the insurer’s website and fill it out accurately. Attach all required documents and submit them online or via email. Keep copies for your records.
Case Example: Injured During the Trip
If you get injured while travelling, contact your insurer’s emergency hotline, especially if hospitalisation is needed. Some insurers require prior approval before covering medical expenses.
Keep all medical records, receipts, and travel documents for your claim. Once back in Hong Kong, complete the claim form and submit it within the specified timeframe.
Case Example: Lost Digital Gadget
Report the loss to the local police within 24 hours to get an official report, which is needed for your claim. Confirm that the lost item is covered, as some policies exclude certain gadgets. Collect proof of purchase, photos (if available), and the police report. Submit the claim with all documents to improve the chances of reimbursement.
Where Can I Buy Travel Insurance?
In Hong Kong, there are multiple ways to purchase travel insurance depending on your needs and preferences. Below are the most common options to consider.
Insurance Companies
You can purchase travel insurance directly from established providers such as AXA, Zurich, FWD, MSIG, and Allianz. Buying directly allows you to explore various plan options and customise coverage according to your needs. Many insurers also offer online purchase platforms, making the process quick and convenient.
Online Comparison Platforms
Websites like MoneyHero provide side-by-side comparisons of different travel insurance policies. These platforms allow you to compare premiums, coverage limits, and exclusions easily. Use comparison tools to find the best value for your budget and travel requirements.
Travel Agencies
Some travel agencies offer travel insurance as an add-on when booking flights or holiday packages. This is a convenient option for those who prefer a one-stop-shop experience. However, coverage options might be limited, so review the policy details before purchasing.
Credit Card Providers
Premium credit cards often include complimentary travel insurance benefits. This can cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost baggage. Check with your credit card issuer for specific details, as coverage varies by card type and issuing bank.
FAQ
1. When should I buy travel insurance?
You should buy travel insurance BEFORE starting your journey. The insurance plan is activated at the moment you purchase it, so the earlier you buy it, the better. You are suggested to purchase travel insurance right after you purchase your flight ticket, so even unexpected changes before your departure may be covered. For example, FWD provides reimbursement for irrecoverable prepaid costs due to the cancellation of a trip in the event that the insured person is diagnosed with COVID-19 30 days before the start of the journey.
If your flight is cancelled or delayed due to adverse weather conditions, you may be covered if you have already purchased travel insurance before any weather warnings are issued.
Also, if, unfortunately, a Black Outbound Alert is issued to your destination, you will be covered if you have already purchased travel insurance that covers trip cancellation due to a Black Outbound Alert before it is issued. However, if you purchase travel insurance after the Black Outbound Alert is issued, you may not be covered.
2. Can I buy travel insurance during my trip?
No. Since travel insurance policies are normally only valid for travel originating from and returning to Hong Kong, any purchase of travel insurance after departure will not be accepted. There will be no compensation even if you have encountered any accidents during the trip. So please do not leave everything until the last minute and buy travel insurance as soon as your departure and return date is confirmed.
3. What is the difference between Single Trip and Annual Travel Insurance? Is annual travel insurance cheaper?
Annual travel insurance is best for frequent travellers and business travellers as annual travel insurance covers unlimited trips per year. Employers should purchase travel insurance for employees who travel business trips frequently to protect mutual interests.
Single-trip travel insurance is best for people who do not travel frequently and prefer short trips or short-distance travel. As the price is generally lower than the annual one, you can purchase single-trip travel insurance at a lower cost while bringing you peace of mind during your trip.
4. Which travel insurance covers flight delay and trip cancellation? What are the claim procedures?
Normally, a travel insurance company covers flight delays resulting from adverse weather conditions, natural disasters, closure of airports, hi-jack, or technical or other mechanical derangement.
Trip cancellation will be covered if it is due to death, serious sickness or injury of the insured person, adverse weather conditions, natural disaster or unexpected outbreak of infectious diseases, riot at the destination that prevents the insured person from continuing the journey or Black Outbound Alert for the destination is in effect during the journey.
Most insurance companies have policies that cover flight delays and trip cancellations, including Allianz, STARR, Allied World, FWD, Zurich, and AXA. You may refer to this article for more information.
5. Can I specifically require coverage on top of my current travel insurance plans?
Apart from the regular benefits included in the travel insurance plans, some travel insurance companies allow insured persons to add extra benefit items. You can partially customise your insurance plan to fit your needs even better. For example, AVO offers winter sports extra benefits, water sports extra benefits, pre-wedding photoshoots, and wedding extra benefits. These optional add-ons let you choose your own travel insurance coverage based on your travel purpose.
Need some help?
No worries, we've got you covered!
Which is the best travel insurance plan in Hong Kong?
Buy a suitable travel insurance plan based on your destination.
Example: In recent years, there have been many terrorist attacks in Europe. If you plan to spend your holiday in Paris, you should pay attention to the terms related to terrorism coverage.
Choose the best plan to fit your journey and transportation means.
Example: The chance of flight delay is high if you plan to go to Japan in April (peak cherry season) by budget flight, so you should focus on the delay coverage.
Apply for a cheaper plan with basic coverage.
Example: Travel insurance companies in HK often offer discounts; you can even apply for a 5-day basic plan for less than HK$100.
MoneyHero.com.hk provides a one-stop platform for you to:
- Choose the travel insurance plan based on your special needs and journey.
- Compare plans from more than 10 travel insurance companies and complete the purchasing process in one platform.
- Find out the latest offers from travel insurance companies in HK. process in one platform.
- Find out the latest offers provided by travel insurance companies in HK.
What is not covered by travel insurance?
Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for accidents and other losses incurred while travelling. However, the insurance company might add the exclusion clauses, which remove the insurance coverage for the specified events and choose not to insure the events. The relevant reasons include: such coverage is available under another class of insurance, the risks are not suitable to be taken up, or some special conditions are required, etc. There are numbers of categories included in the exclusion clauses of a travel insurance policy, including:
|
General Exclusions |
Example(s) |
|
War |
War, Civil War, invasion, insurrection, revolution, use of military power or usurpation of government or military power, direct participation in strike, riot and civil commotion |
|
Intentional Acts |
An Insured Person not taking all reasonable efforts to avoid Injury or to minimize any claim under this Policy; suicide or attempted suicide or intentional self-injury, or self-exposure to needless peril; |
|
Unforeseen Circumstances |
Any prohibition or regulations by any government; any breach of government regulation or any failure by the Insured Person to take reasonable precautions to avoid a claim under this insurance following the warning of any intended strike by the employees of a Common Carrier, riot or civil commotion, inclement weather, natural disasters, or epidemic * If the government issues Black OTA to designated countries/territories after an Insured Person buys the travel insurance, which includes Black OTA as a part of the insurance coverage, the Insured Person can be compensated. If an Insured Person buys the travel insurance after the issuance, the insurance company would not compensate. |
|
Illegal Acts |
Any prohibition or regulations by any government; confiscation, detention, destruction by customs or other authorities; an Insured Person who is a Terrorist or a Member of a Terrorist Organization; any illegal or unlawful act by the Insured Person; |
|
High-Risk Activities |
Riding in any aircraft except as a passenger; mountain trekking above 5,000 metres or diving below 30 metres |
|
Specific Occupation(s) |
Being as a crew member of an operator of any air carrier; testing of any kind of conveyance; engaging in any kind of labour work; engaging in offshore activities like commercial diving, oil rigging, mining or aerial photography; handling of explosives; performing as actor/actress; being a site worker, fisherman, cook or kitchen worker; tour guide or tour escort |
|
Dangerous Countries |
Loss, injury, damage or legal liability arising directly or indirectly from planned or actual travel in, to, or through Cuba, Iran, Syria, Sudan, North Korea, or the Crimea region |
|
Medication |
Any loss which relates to the effects of alcohol or drugs other than those prescribed by a Physician or Doctor; |
|
Pregnancy |
Pregnancy, miscarriage or childbirth; or any injury or sickness associated with pregnancy, miscarriage or childbirth; |
|
Pre-existing Medical Conditions |
Any Pre-existing Condition |
|
Specific Medical Conditions |
AIDS or any Injury or Sickness commencing in the presence of a seropositive test for HIV and related diseases and/or sexually transmitted disease; Psychosis, sleep disturbance disorder, mental or nervous disorders |
|
Nuclear Disaster |
Nuclear risks of any nature; radioactive, nuclear pollution or contamination |
|
Others |
Any medical treatment received in the course of a Trip which was made for the purpose of receiving medical treatment (need not be the sole purpose); or the Trip was undertaken while the Insured Person was unfit to travel or against the advice of a Physician or Doctor |
Useful Tips for Choosing Travel Coverage
When you apply for any insurance plan, disclose all relevant information to the insurer.
- Read the exclusions and terms of the policy thoroughly
- Bring a copy of your policy when you travel, and leave a copy with someone back home so they know who to call if you get into an accident during your trip.
Types Of Travel Insurance
Most travel insurance companies in Hong Kong provide different type of plans for different travelers. They include:
- Single Trip Plan
- Annual Plan
- China Plan
- Cruise Plan
What are the differences between annual and single travel insurance plan?
Annual travel insurance plan is suitable for travel lovers and business travellers.
Unlike single travel insurance plan, annual travel insurance plan covers for an unlimited number of trips within a year (the insurance period). The Insured Person does not need to buy insurance for every single trip if they already purchase annual travel insurance. It can help customers to save time and money. Each Journey, which is under the coverage of annual travel insurance, lasts no longer than 90 days. A trip, which is covered by single travel insurance, can last no longer than 180 days. There is no big difference in benefits between annual and single plan.
Travel Insurance Offers
To attract customers, many companies provide discount promotion. For example, you can enjoy 30% off exclusive discount if you buy CHUBB / Allied World / STARR / FWD/ Zurich and Falcon single trip plan in Moneyhero.com.hk platform. MSIG is also providing 45% discount now. Let’s take a 5-day Japan trip as an example, the difference between the cheapest and most expensive plan can up to $220:
| Insurance Companies（Plan） | Original Price | Discount Price |
|---|---|---|
| Allied World（I / II） | $154 / 225 | $107.8 / 157.5 |
| AXA（Classic / VIP） | $160 / 225 | - |
| Blue Cross（Premier） | $278 | - |
| CHUBB（3/2/1） | $152 / 249 / 340 | $106.4 / 174.3 / 238 |
| FWD（B / A） | $155 / 215 | $108.5 / 150.5 |
| Liberty（Asia/ Worldwide） | $148 / $321 | - |
| MSIG（B / A） | $268 / 364 | $147.46 / 200.28 |
| STARR（Essential / Extra / Supreme） | $95 / 135 / 193 | $66.5 / 94.5 / 135.1 |
Compare & Buy Plans in Hong Kong
Different insurance plans have their own set of rules and specific coverage terms. Our comparison tool helps you set them apart so you can choose one that fits your requirements.
Remember, you can use our comparison tool for free! Filter your search results according to provider, insurance benefits, price range, and other features. All you have to do is to click the Apply Now button and you're one step closer to full protection on your next trip.
What are the benefits of buying travel insurance online?
More people choose to buy travel insurance online because of convenience and efficiency these days.
There are four benefits of buying travel insurance online:
1. You can buy travel insurance wherever you areMany insurance companies sell their insurance plans online. The Insured Person can compare and buy travel insurance online via desktop and/or mobile devices anywhere. It is no longer necessary to spend extra time to somewhere else for signing up for a travel insurance policy with the insurance agent.
2. You can buy travel insurance whenever you areThe Insured Person can buy travel insurance online 24/7. Some insurance companies allow their customers to buy the plan a few hours before the start date of the trip.
3. Efficient and EffectiveYou can fill the form and buy the plan within minutes. Then, spend more time planning a travel itinerary.
4. Reasonable priceSince there is no insurance agent involved during the time of purchase, the operating cost is relatively lower. Therefore, the premium of online travel insurances is cheaper than the traditional ones.
Benefits Of Comparing Travel Insurance Plans
You should buy travel insurance before every trip. However, most people have a question: Which is the best travel insurance plan in Hong Kong? You could consider below points when you choose the plan that suits you:
-
Buy a suitable travel insurance plan based on your destination.
Example︰In recent years, there were many terrorist attacks in Europe. If you plan to spend your holiday in Paris, you should pay attention to the terms related to terrorism coverage.
-
Choose the best plan to fit your journey and transportation means.
Example: The chance of flight delay is high if you plan to go to Japan in April (peak cherry season) by budget flight, you should be focusing on the delay coverage.
-
Apply for a cheaper plan with basic coverage.
Example: Travel insurance companies in HK often offer discounts, you can even apply for a 5-day basic plan with less than HK$100.
MoneyHero.com.hk provides a one-stop platform for you to:
- Choose the travel insurance plan based on your special needs and journey.
- Compare plans from more than 10 travel insurance companies and complete the purchasing process in one platform.
- Find out the latest offers provided by travel insurance companies in HK.
Does travel insurance cover mobile phones?
Many of us take electronic devices like mobile phones along with our trips. However, most travel insurances do not cover us for mobile phones. Only Allied World, AXA, and CHUBB provide mobile phone coverage:
| Travel Insurance Companies | Mobile Phone Coverage | Tablet Coverage | Laptop Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allied World | $2,000 | $2,000 | $2000 |
| AXA | $2,000-3,000 | $2,000-3,000 | $5,000-7,500 |
| Blue Cross | X | $2,000-3,000 | $2,000-3,000 |
| CHUBB | $3,000-5,000 | $3,000-5,000 | $3,000-5,000 |
| FWD | X | X | $3,000 |
| Liberty | X | X | $2,000 |
| MSIG | X | X | $2,000 |
| STARR | $0-2,000 | $0-2,000 | $0-8,000 |
What should I do if my phone is lost while traveling?
If you lost your personal items during the trip, you should report to local police after the incidence within 24 hours and keep all supporting documents and original receipts for an insurance claim. You should also pay attention that your insurer may refuse your claim if you have not looked after your properties properly.
Does travel insurance cover countries with outbound travel alerts?
The government of Hong Kong launched the Outbound Travel Alert (OTA) System to help Hong Kong people understand the risk to personal safety in traveling overseas, and there are three colors, namely Amber, Red and Black to indicate the alert level. Many travel insurance plans cover countries with OTA and they usually cover trip cancellation and trip curtailment, but applicants should keep in mind that the actual compensation depends on the policy's maximum limit, while some insurance plans only cover countries with a Black Alert. In addition, not all insurance plans cover terrorist attacks, you should check the exclusions even if they have a terrorism cover.
Does travel insurance cover rental cars?
Does travel insurance cover rental cars?As rental cars are not classified as a way of public transportation, a rental car accident is not covered under the personal accident benefits. Rental charges usually include basic protection with third-party liability; if you want more protection, you could choose a comprehensive coverage plan. Now that many travel insurance plans offer a Rental Vehicle Protection which normally compensates for the motor insurance policy excess incurred by you only, excluding other expenses due to the accident. Applicants should read the policy's terms carefully.
How to claim compensation when my flight is delayed?
Travel delay coverage varies by the insurance policy. You will probably get a compensation of about HK$300 if you experienced a delay of more than 6 hours. Some insurance plans also reimburse the extra costs for accommodations. Applicants should keep all relevant receipts and ask the airlines or transportation agencies to provide a written proof as a clear evidence, or the insurer may refuse the claim.
When should I buy my travel insurance?
Basically you should buy travel insurance as early as possible. It is recommended that you buy your travel insurance once you have booked your air tickets and hotels to get better coverage. Travel insurance cover usually starts once you have bought the policy; if you buy the insurance and the government issues a Black OTA for your travel destination while it covers a Black Alert, you may make a claim. But if you buy an insurance after the Black Alert has been issued, you would not be compensated for that.
Let's find out the travel insurance plan that fit you the best now!
