Compare Travel Insurance for Singapore

Singapore has some of the strictest laws in the world, and travellers should be aware that behaviour that might be considered minor at home can carry significant penalties in Singapore. Spitting in a public space, importing chewing gum, and littering can all result in substantial fines. More seriously, Singapore's drug laws are extremely strict, with severe penalties for possession or trafficking. Travel insurance does not cover fines, penalties, or legal costs arising from breaking local laws, so it’s essential to familiarise yourself with Singapore’s regulations before you travel.

It’s always worth checking the New Zealand Government’s SafeTravel website before travelling to Singapore for the latest travel advisories. Travelling against a Do Not Travel warning will generally void your travel insurance cover for any incidents arising in the affected area, so staying informed before and during your trip is good practice.

Singapore travel insurance comes with important exclusions worth understanding before you travel. Claims will generally not be paid if you were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the incident, if your belongings were left unattended, or if you fail to report theft or loss to the relevant authority within 24 hours. High-risk activities – including rope-assisted rock climbing, cliff jumping, and skydiving – may also be excluded from standard cover.

Pre-existing medical conditions must be declared when purchasing Singapore travel insurance. Some conditions may be covered automatically, while others require a medical assessment or attract an additional premium. Given that private medical costs in Singapore can be significant, it’s especially important to declare all relevant conditions upfront to ensure your cover remains valid.

There are several practical ways to reduce the cost of Singapore travel insurance. Some insurers price Singapore separately from the broader Asia region, which may result in a lower premium for Singapore-only trips. Travelling with a partneror friend? A joint policy is often cheaper than purchasing individually. Increasing your excess can also reduce your premium, and frequent travellers may find that an annual multi-trip policy offers better value than purchasing a separate policy for each trip.

Many Kiwis visiting Singapore also take the opportunity to explore other destinations in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, or Thailand. If your itinerary extends beyond Singapore, make sure your policy covers all destinations you plan to visit, or consider a broader Asia or worldwide policy if your travel plans are likely to evolve during your trip.