Thailand is firmly established on the backpacker trail which has its pros and cons. Travel and accommodation within Thailand are both easy to arrange and are very cheap when compared to Europe, North America and Down Under. However, backpackers are arguably at the most risk of theft during their travels. It makes sense to have a specialist backpacker policy that will cover you for an extended period of travel. Thailand has plenty to offer the adventurous traveller, whether it be elephant trekking, white-water rafting, bungy jumping or scuba diving. Always check the details of your policy and ensure you are covered for all the activities you may wish to enjoy. If not included in a standard policy, it is often possible to add them for a small extra premium.
Columbus Direct
Columbus Direct have a Backpacker/Gap Year policy which is available to residents of most countries and covers you for up to 365 days of continuous travel. There are no age limits and cover is available for pre-existing medical conditions. This policy is available to individuals, couples and families and includes insurance cover for a wide range of sports and activities.
World Nomads
The World Nomads standard policy is endorsed by Lonely Planet and is available to residents of over 150 countries. With World Nomads, everything is done online including claims so you don’t have to wait until you return home. You can commence and finish your trip anywhere; it doesn’t have to be your country of residence. This makes it ideal for those already in Thailand if they haven’t yet sorted out insurance. There is an option to extend the policy as many times as you like to fit how long you are away for. If you have flexible travel plans, this could be the travel insurance that matches those plans.
Flexicover
The Flexicover Gap Year policy is only available to UK residents aged between 16-45 and automatically includes cover for many sports and recreational activities. Unlike some backpacker insurance, the Gap Year policy allows for return visits home during the period of cover. If you are over 45, you can opt for the Long Stay policy which is suitable if you are going to be away for between 3-18 months.