Travel Insurance For USA What To Take Note of

As of May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S. arriving by air or arriving by land or sea no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 

Visitors are also no longer required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test, effective June 12, 2022.

However, it is best to remember that the travel situation post Covid-19 is constantly evolving. Make sure to refer to the United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  webpage for the latest updates on the post Covid-19 travel situation.

Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website also provides a comprehensive guide in relation to travelling to the USA.

If you are planning on travelling to the USA and are not a citizen of the United States of America, you will need to obtain a travel authorization. 

The type of authorization you need (visa or ESTA) will depend on the reason for your visit. If your stay in the USA is less than 90 days, you do not need to get a visa. Instead, you can apply for travel authorization by filling out the online form.

However, it is recommended to refer to United States Department of State’s Visas website to acquire more information regarding your entry requirements to the USA.

Depending on your budget and travel plans, there are several accommodation options to choose from during your trip.

Motel and hotel prices vary depending on location. In rural areas, rates start at US$45 per night, while rates for major cities start at around US$80 per night. Keep in mind that luxury hotels typically have higher prices, with exclusive suites costing thousands of dollars.

Depending on the type of rooms, bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) range from around US$80 to US$275 for a double room. The price usually includes breakfast and different B&Bs may or may not provide private bath facilities as it is often owned by a private individual instead of a chain.

You can also stay in historic hotels and lodges from the 40s and 50s in towns across the country. Depending on how well-preserved the hotel is, the rates for historic hotels and lodges starts from US$100 up to US$200 per night.

If you are travelling alone, you can save money by renting a bed in a hostel dorm. Usually, it ranges from US$20 to US$35 per night. Just keep in mind that cleanliness and security standards may not be very high, but they are usually reasonable for the price you pay.

It is not compulsory to have travel insurance to visit the USA; you can travel without it if you want. However, the USA is one of the most expensive countries in the world when it comes to any kind of medical treatment. Traveling without insurance means risking a potentially life-changing medical bill should something go wrong during your trip.

Travel insurance can help cover the costs of medical treatment, provide financial protection in case of flight cancellations or delays, and protect your belongings if they are lost or stolen. Make sure to do the research, read the policy wording carefully and choose travel insurance that best fits your needs so you can have peace of mind during your trip. 

Although Southwest and JetBlue are considered to be affordable airlines in the USA, air travel has become less attractive for getting around the country than it once was due to the rising costs.

It is best to book your plane tickets ahead of time, especially during the peak seasons. Changing the ticket after a purchase may result in additional fees of US$100 or more.

Despite that, flying still costs less than taking the train, but more than taking the bus.

Amtrak is the primary train service in the USA, offering service in 46 states and Washington, D.C., with 500 destinations along its 34,000-plus-kilometer route system. Amtrak’s California Zephyr is perfect for travellers who are interested in seeing magnificent landscapes across seven states in the Western part of the country.

Additionally, to enjoy historic towns and charming countryside of New England, Amtrak's Vermonter is the perfect route to choose. Their USA Rail Passes are also perfect for those who plan to tour the country thoroughly.

Commuter rail systems are also available in many American cities, which transport people between suburbs and cities while providing connections to local train stations.

Buses are a popular and affordable mode of transportation with free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, onboard restrooms, and reclining seats with headrests for travel between major and smaller cities.

Bus companies provide frequent services connecting major cities with smaller towns. They operate throughout the day and night, allowing you to enjoy the scenery during the day or rest during a nighttime journey.

Popular bus providers include BoltBus, Greyhound, Jefferson Lines, Megabus, Peter Pan, and Trailways.

The United States has a well-developed network of highways that spans the country. Some of these roads and bridges are toll-free, while others require payment.

The toll payment methods vary, but generally, they can be paid using cash, a credit card or an electronic pass. Some rental companies provide electronic passes, with total fees deducted when the vehicle is returned.

To rent a car in the USA, you will need to: 

• be 25 years old and above
• own a valid driver’s license
• provide your passport
•  have a credit card with sufficient funds

The healthcare system in the US includes both publicly funded coverage through government programs like Medicare and Medicaid and privately funded coverage through plans offered by private health insurance companies. However, it does not provide universal coverage.

In short, the US government does not provide health benefits to both citizens and visitors. 

Although it is not legally required, you are strongly advised to obtain medical insurance when visiting the US for a short duration, due to the significantly high expenses of healthcare in the country. 

For example, a mere consultation with a doctor in the USA can reach over US$100. On the other hand, a quick visit to the emergency room for a simple condition such sprained ankle can cost up to US$5000. 

If you find yourself in need of medical care, especially when includes getting hospitalised in the USA, make sure to contact your travel insurer’s emergency assistance department to help assist with the medical costs without compromising the standard of your medical care.

Exploring new places can be exhilarating, but it is still significant to keep in mind potential risks. Purchasing travel insurance can help to create a safety net when travelling to the USA.

Allianz Travel offers Single Trip and Multi Trip Travel Insurance,  with three different coverage plans for you to choose according to your needs, including selected Covid-19 coverage*. Make sure to review our insurance options to find the policy that is right for you.