Travel Insurance

✈️ The Smart Traveler’s Guide: Staying Covered in the USA and Thailand (2026 Edition)

Whether you are dreaming of the neon lights of New York City or the turquoise waters of Phuket, there is one thing you can't leave behind: The right insurance.

Most travelers don't realize that their home health insurance usually stops at the border. One medical emergency or a 4-hour flight delay can cost you thousands. Here is exactly how to use my favorite tools to protect your wallet and your trip.

Traveling to the USA? (For Foreigners)

The United States has world-class doctors, but the bills are equally "world-class." If you are a foreigner visiting the US, you need a plan that hospitals recognize immediately.

🏥 The Best Medical Marketplaces

I recommend using a comparison tool so you can find a plan that fits your age and health needs perfectly. These two are the industry leaders:

• Compare Plans on Insubuy: Best for high-limit medical coverage and instant "Visa Letters" for your embassy appointment.

• Compare Plans on VisitorsCoverage: Excellent for comprehensive travel medical insurance with a very user-friendly mobile interface.

🚗 Renting a Car?

If you are driving in the US, don't just rely on your medical insurance. You need to protect the vehicle itself.

• Book your Rental via Klook: Use Klook to book your car and add their Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). This ensures you aren't held liable for thousands in damages if the car is dented or stolen.

Traveling to Thailand? (For US Citizens & Global Travelers)

Thailand is beautiful, but "Bangkok Belly" (food poisoning) or a scooter accident can happen to anyone.

🛵 The Budget-Friendly Choice: EKTA

If you want something fast, reliable, and incredibly affordable, EKTA is the way to go.

• Get Covered with EKTA: Their policies are issued almost instantly. It’s perfect for the "I forgot to buy insurance and I’m at the airport" moment!

💸 The "Secret" Flight Delay Paycheck

If you are flying from the USA to Thailand, you probably have a choice: fly west over the Pacific (via Japan/Korea) or fly east over the Atlantic (via Europe/Istanbul).

Here is the pro tip: If you choose a flight that connects in Europe or Istanbul (using airlines like Lufthansa, Air France, or Turkish Airlines), you are automatically covered by the world's best passenger protection laws.

• The Benefit: If your flight is delayed by 3+ hours on these routes, you are legally entitled to up to €600 (~$650) in cash.

• The Strategy: Keep this link bookmarked: Compensair. If your flight through Europe gets messy, just submit your flight number. They do all the legal fighting with the airline for you. You only pay a fee if they successfully get your money back!