Do You Need Travel Insurance for Samoa? What to Consider Before You Go

Does Samoa call for travel insurance? Things to Think About Before Your Trip

Is Samoa Safe?

Usually speaking, Samoa is a safe place to visit. Petty theft does happen, though, and especially in Apia, you should be alert of your surroundings and secure valuables. While rare, violent crime is not unheard of. The U.S. Department of State encourages following usual guidelines. Though it notes possible hazards, Smartraveller, the travel recommendation service run by the Australian government, also regards Samoa as safe.

Why Consider Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance protects against unanticipated circumstances that can throw off your travel plans or result in unplanned costs. Although not required in Samoa, it is strongly advised, especially for American visitors, since Medicare usually does not cover medical treatment overseas. Some locations, including the United States, Canada, and Japan, have more significant medical expenses than others and need extra coverage. Several sources—including the U.S. Department of State, Smartraveller, and AARDY—strongly advise travel insurance for overseas travel.

Types of Travel Insurance

Should you cancel for a covered reason—such as illness, extreme weather affecting your location, or a family emergency—this reimburses planned, non-refundable trip fees. Generally refunding 50-75% of trip expenses, "Cancel for Any Reason" (CFAR) insurance offers additional freedom even for reasons not typically covered. This is handy if you expect to have to cancel for something like job obligations.

Travel Medical Insurance covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency evacuations, among other medical events occurring during your vacation. This is especially important in Samoa since medical facilities could be few compared to those in the United States, and significant illnesses might call for evacuation to Australia, New Zealand, or Hawaii, which is relatively expensive without coverage. Travel medical policies could also cover repatriation and acute start of pre-existing diseases. Remote locations without easy access to medical services should be insured against an emergency medical evacuation.

Complete travel insurance bundles include coverage for travel medical, trip cancellation, lost luggage, trip interruption, and travel delay. They're a common choice for individuals looking for more general protection.

What Impacts the Cost of Travel Insurance?

Several factors influence travel insurance costs: trip cost (higher expenses mean higher premiums), your age (older travellers generally pay more), trip duration (longer trips cost more), destination (medical costs and risks in Samoa can affect pricing), coverage type (comprehensive plans cost more than basic ones), pre-existing conditions (adding coverage increases premiums), and optional add-ons like adventure sports coverage. According to NerdWallet, the average cost is around 6.87% of the total trip cost, but it can range from 4.15% to 15.8%. The average premium for a $2,000 trip is around $112.60, but it can vary based on those factors.

Single Trip vs. Annual Travel Insurance

Those who travel one or two times annually—those who are sporadic—should get single-trip insurance. It provides coverage choices and is catered to the particular demands of the trip. For frequent travellers, annual insurance offers continuous coverage for a year and could perhaps save money over several single-trip premiums. Usually, it comprises emergency medical coverage for every trip.

Medical Considerations in Samoa

Although Samoa provides healthcare facilities—a national hospital in Apia and district hospitals—their amenities could be rudimentary compared to Western norms. Health services are paid for by visitors, typically in cash, upfront. Travelers are encouraged to get regular vaccinations against diseases including typhoid, rabies, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B. There is dengue fever; malaria is not thought to be an issue. Given the risk associated with the Zika virus, mosquito netting and insect repellent are advised. Generally speaking, tap water is not considered safe for consumption, so food should be carefully considered. Medical evacuation could be required for life-threatening conditions.

Credit Card Travel Insurance

Certain travel credit cards include complimentary travel insurance covering lost bags, trip cancellations, and interruption. This coverage might have restrictions, though, and it might not pay medical bills. Review the policy specifics to determine if your card's coverage fits your needs and whether it is primary or secondary.