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Is health insurance necessary for a two-week visit to Thailand?

Aug 26, 2025
3 days ago
John ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Does one need health insurance for a two week visit?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
Health insurance is not required for a two-week visit to Thailand, but it is highly recommended to have travel insurance, especially for medical coverage. Many commenters emphasize that while it's not mandatory, unexpected medical expenses can arise. Thus, having travel insurance can protect against potential high costs in case of illness or injury during the trip.
Cheryl **************
Definitely travel insurance, my husband had a stroke while on holiday from Aus . He did get best of care , would have cost a fortune without . Absolute stupidity not to have travel insurance.
Elías ********
If you're rich and willing to spend a lot of money if something even minor happens, no need for insurance. Otherwise, it's a must.
Bryce *******
@Elías *******
Sadly, you also have to be rich to afford insurance.
Robert *********
If you can afford a hundred thousand dollar hospital stay (sht happens) ,then no .
Kevin ******
There is no requirement for a two week visit. Health insurance is viewed as a long term as if you’re living here. Medical insurance, on the other hand, is not required but would be foolish not to get.

S ome people will tell you to get travel insurance, but the most important part to focus on is the medical travel insurance. That’s what will actually protect you if you get sick or injured in Thailand. The rest of the travel insurance package (like baggage and flight delays) is optional, but medical coverage is essential IMO.
Uhapuk ******
I just use a CCard/B if i need to go Hospital.
John ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Uhapuk *****
what is a CCard/B ?
Uhapuk ******
@John *******
Credit Card or Baht.
Will ******
Depends what you plan to do.
Colin *******
Travel insurance is a must, but read the small print, as they normally exclude things like, Jet Skis and Motorbikes
Carlos *********
@Colin ******
then why would you need it?
Nongnuch ********
@Colin ******
so what will you do? You don't use Jet skis and motorbikes - just play safe and get a taxi
Carlos *********
@Nongnuch *******
taxis arent safe, and taxi drivers have been known to have altercations with their passangers.
Mike *****
@Colin ******
Motorbikes are the number 1 cause of needing medical services so that makes many insurances useless.
Rob **********
Health insurance is not mandatory for your visit, but I would strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance just to be on the safe side, you never know.
Juli ***********
It’s not “required” but I would advise travel insurance just in case as you never know
Jodie *******
No just travel insurance like anywhere you visit. Health insurance if your going to live there
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