Santam Travel Insurance unpacks the types of cover, costs and what to look out for when choosing travel insurance

South Africans are keen travellers. A recent Mariott Bonvoy study found that in 2025, South Africans on average planned 6.5 holidays or trips for the year – including two short-haul holidays (four-hour flight or less), and 1.8 long-haul holidays in 2025^[i].

Interestingly, the study also found that 80% of local respondents cited feeling braver on holidays, seeking out destinations linked to unique experiences^[ii].

Commenting on this is Jason Veitch, Head of Travel, Accident and Health at Santam Travel Insurance, who says that trends like this, coupled with the rising costs of medical inflation underscore the need for quality travel insurance that is tailored to a traveller's unique trip and preferences.

What are the different types of travel insurance benefits?

“The first port of call is to understand the different types of travel insurance – each is designed to cover different risks, trip styles, and traveller needs like medical emergencies, cancellations, lost baggage, and delays,” says Veitch.

Whether you're going on a quick holiday, a business trip or planning a high-adrenaline adventure, Veitch emphasises that it's important to choose the right type of cover.

Firstly, Veitch says that medical travel insurance cover is essential for international trips, covering emergency medical treatment, hospitalisation abroad, emergency evacuation or repatriation. “Medical travel insurance claims make up the bulk of the claims we see, and are typically the most expensive, so this is a non-negotiable,” believes Veitch. Additionally, he says that some countries require proof of medical cover for visa applications.

Trip cancellation and disruption cover protect your prepaid costs and return plans. “You only need to turn the news on today to see why this type of cover is crucial for peace of mind both in the lead up to your trip, and while you’re abroad,” says Veitch.

To make things easier for travellers, he clarifies that travel insurance providers also offer comprehensive cover. “This typically combines medical, cancellation, baggage, and delay protection in one policy – so it’s the most recommended for obvious reasons.”

Insurers also provide policies tailored for businesses and corporates with cover for risks like work-related injuries or loss of trade samples.

Choosing the right travel insurance starts with understanding the risks of your trip

According to Veitch, where you're going, what you'll be doing, how long you'll be away, and how much you've prepaid all influence the kind of cover you need.

He encourages travellers to ask themselves the following questions before choosing a policy:

• How often do I travel?
  If you travel regularly, a multi-trip or annual policy may save money.
• Where am I going?
  Travel to remote areas or higher-risk regions may need enhanced medical or evacuation cover.
• What will I be doing?
  Adventure, manual work, or long stays require specialised cover.
• How much have I prepaid?
  Trip cancellation cover is especially useful for non-refundable costs.
• Do I have pre-existing medical conditions?
  Make sure these are declared and covered, or your claims may be denied.

What about price?

Just like airfares or hotel rates, travel insurance premiums change based on your trip details and personal risk profile. “Some of the aspects insurers use to calculate your quote would usually be your age, destination and trip duration. Each of these impacts your risk when travelling – how likely you are to claim and how expensive that will be,” says Veitch.

He explains that basic policies may meet minimum visa or medical requirements and cost less but cover fewer risks, while comprehensive cover is more expensive but far more valuable if something goes wrong.

If cost is an issue, he advises travellers to always prioritise medical cover first, “Then consider cancellation, baggage, or activity-specific cover depending on your trip.”

If your trip involves high-risk activities or unusual situations, you may need extra cover. “These typically include adventure or winter sports, a pre-existing medical condition, or specific covers for group tours.”

Choosing the right type of travel insurance doesn’t have to be complicated.

From basic medical cover to comprehensive all-in-one plans, there’s a policy that fits your needs whether you’re studying abroad, heading on safari, or flying out for work.

The key is to match your policy to your trip, your risks, and your peace of mind. Travel insurance protects more than your money; it protects your journey.