Travel insurance for Vietnam: what it must cover
Updated 1 November 2026 · 4 min read
In short
Travel insurance is not required to enter Vietnam, but it is strongly recommended: international clinics are expensive and a medical evacuation from Asia costs a great deal. Check three things before you buy: the medical cover limit, repatriation, and motorbike cover if you plan Ha Giang or scooter rides.
What your credit card covers, and what it doesn't
Some premium credit cards include travel assistance, provided you paid for the trip with the card. Medical limits and exclusions vary a lot: reread your card's terms before relying on it, especially for motorbikes and sports.
What to check
| Point | Why it matters in Vietnam |
|---|---|
| Medical cover limit | International clinics in Hanoi and Saigon charge Western rates |
| Repatriation | Evacuation home from Asia quickly runs into tens of thousands |
| Motorbikes and scooters | Many policies exclude two-wheeler accidents, or only cover them with a valid motorbike licence |
| Activities | Trekking in Sapa, kayaking in Ha Long, diving in Nha Trang: check they are not excluded |
| Cancellation and luggage | Useful if you paid for a cruise or non-refundable domestic flights |
When to buy
As soon as you book if you want cancellation cover, otherwise before departure at the latest. Keep the assistance number and your policy number on your phone and on paper.
For the other formalities, see our guides to the visa and scams and safety.