What is travel insurance and why do I need it?

So, you’ve booked the trip of your dreams. passport? Checks. Boarding pass? Checks. Sexy selfie at the airport? naturally. But there is one thing that many South Africans leave until the last minute, or skip altogether: Travel insurance. Think of it as your vacation’s invisible bodyguard. You hope you never need it, but when life throws you a hard time (lost luggage, medical emergencies, missed flights), you’ll be glad you have it.

Travel insurance for South Africa: what is it?

In simple terms:

• It’s a safety net for the “what ifs” of travel.
• Covers unexpected medical costs abroad (because doctors in Paris do not perform SnapScan).
• Protects against lost luggage, canceled flights or stolen passports.
• Often required for visas (hello, Schengen area 👋).

When you book with Travelstart, this is integrated directly into the flow. No extra dodgy steps, no second guessing.

Do South Africans really need it?

Because travel is unpredictable. Here’s why you don’t want to risk:

• Medical emergencies abroadHospital bills in the USA can cost more than an entire year’s salary.
• Visa requirements: Many countries (looking at you, Europe) require proof of travel insurance Visa approval. Without it, your dream trip may end at the consulate.
• Lost or delayed baggage: Airlines lose bags. It happens. Insurance makes it less painful.
• Trip cancellation: Flights are cancelled, life begins. Travel insurance helps you recover costs.

Travel insurance according to destination

Let’s talk about where Safaa likes to go and why They are in demand there: UK, USA, Thailand, Dubai and Mauritius.

• Europe (Schengen countries) → It is mandatory
• USA → World-class hospitals, world-class billing. The cover is crucial.
• Thailand and Mauritius → Adventure sports, scooters, cocktails… accidents happen.
• Dubai → Excursions are great until your luggage takes a route to another continent.

If you are looking for The best travel insurance travelers can get in South AfricaConsider comprehensive coverage with medical, baggage and cancellation protection. Not the cheapest option, just the smartest.

Quickfire legends busted

• “My medical assistant covers me abroad.” Not always, and never completely.
• “I’m young, I don’t need it.” Being young doesn’t protect you from food poisoning in Bangkok.
• “It’s very expensive.” This is usually a small fraction of the cost of your trip. Cheaper way than emergency surgery abroad.

Questions and answers about travel insurance in South Africa

Is travel insurance mandatory for South African citizens visiting Europe?
Yes, Schengen visa applications require proof of coverage.

How much does travel insurance cost in South Africa?
It depends on the length of your trip and your destination, but it’s often just a small percentage of your total travel spending.

Does medical aid cover South African citizens abroad?
Not entirely, you will still need travel insurance for medical emergencies abroad.

Don’t sleep on it

Travel insurance is not a “nice to have.” It’s the difference between a memorable trip for the right reasons… and one you’ll spend years paying off. Booking with Travelstart? You can add travel insurance as part of your trip check-in. Fast, simple and tidy.