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Falling ill abroad? Yikes! Sky-high medical bills, language barriers, and unfamiliar hospitals can turn your dream trip into a nightmare. A hospital stay can cost ₱100,000 to ₱2M—but don’t stress! Oona Travel Insurance has your back, covering emergency care, hospital stays, and even medical evacuations, so you can focus on getting better, not your bills.
Maria had everything ready for her dream trip to Japan—months of planning, a perfect itinerary, and a list of must-visit spots in Tokyo and Kyoto. But what she didn’t plan for? A nasty case of influenza. Three days in, she woke up with a high fever, body aches, and chills so bad she couldn’t even leave her hotel room. In a foreign country with a language barrier, she quickly realized that getting sick abroad is a whole different challenge.
Maria’s story isn’t rare. A Statista survey shows that 69% of Filipinos now consider travel insurance a must-have—because getting sick overseas can mean sky-high medical bills, unexpected hospital stays, and major stress. From food poisoning to accidents, the cost of medical care abroad can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared.
So, what happens if you fall ill while traveling? How much do medical expenses really cost in different countries? And why is travel insurance your best safety net? Let’s dive in!
Traveling is all fun and adventure—until you get sick in a foreign country. Navigating an unfamiliar healthcare system, dealing with language barriers, and facing unexpected medical bills can turn a minor illness into a major stressor.
Food poisoning and stomach ailments
Trying new cuisines is part of the adventure, but sometimes your stomach disagrees
Respiratory infections
Different climate conditions or exposure to new pathogens can trigger respiratory issues
Injuries from accidents
From minor falls while sightseeing to more serious incidents
Flare-ups of existing conditions
Stress and changes in routine can aggravate chronic health problems
Severe allergic reactions
Exposure to new environments, foods, or substances
Altitude sickness
Particularly in destinations like Peru, Nepal, or Colorado
Heat-related illnesses
In tropical or desert destinations
Carlo, a 35-year-old marketing executive from Manila, was in Singapore for a conference when he started feeling sharp abdominal pain. At first, he brushed it off as indigestion—until it became unbearable. His colleague rushed him to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with acute appendicitis. He needed emergency surgery.
The procedure went smoothly, but the bill? A staggering SGD 15,000 (₱570,000) for the ER visit, surgery, three-day hospital stay, and medications.
“I never thought I’d need emergency surgery while traveling,” Carlo admitted. “I’ve always been healthy. Luckily, my travel insurance covered most of the costs. Without it, I would’ve drained my savings and still needed to borrow money.”
Medical emergencies abroad can happen when you least expect them—and they come at a hefty price. That’s why travel insurance isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’—it’s a must!
Many Filipino travelers don’t realize just how expensive medical treatment can be overseas—until they see the bill. A simple hospital stay can cost thousands, while an emergency surgery or medical evacuation can wipe out savings in an instant.
Country |
Doctor's Visit |
ER Visit |
Hospital Stay |
Appendectomy |
Medical Evacuation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
USA |
$150-300 (₱8,400-16,800) |
$1,000-3,000 (₱56,000-168,000) |
$2,000-5,000 (₱112,000-280,000) |
$20,000-40,000 (₱1.1-2.2M) |
$50,000+ (₱2.8M+) |
Japan |
¥10,000-30,000 (₱4,000-12,000) |
¥50,000-100,000 (₱20,000-40,000) |
¥30,000-100,000 (₱12,000-40,000) |
¥500,000-1.5M (₱200,000-600,000) |
¥5M+ (₱2M+) |
Singapore |
SGD 75-200 (₱3,000-8,000) |
SGD 200-400 (₱8,000-16,000) |
SGD 350-5,000 (₱14,000-200,000) |
SGD 10,000-20,000 (₱400,000-800,000) |
SGD 25,000+ (₱1M+) |
Thailand |
THB 1,000-3,000 (₱1,500-4,500) |
THB 5,000-20,000 (₱7,500-30,000) |
THB 10,000-50,000 (₱15,000-75,000) |
THB 100,000-300,000 (₱150,000-450,000) |
THB 500,000+ (₱750,000+) |
Australia |
AUD 80-200 (₱2,800-7,000) |
AUD 300-1,000 (₱10,500-35,000) |
AUD 1,500-5,000 (₱52,500-175,000) |
AUD 10,000-20,000 (₱350,000-700,000) |
AUD 50,000+ (₱1.75M+) |
Note: Costs are approximate and can vary significantly based on the specific hospital, severity of condition, and treatment required.
Could you afford a sudden ₱500,000 hospital bill? Without travel insurance, one medical emergency could cost more than your entire trip. Stay protected and travel worry-free with the right coverage!
Did You Know?
18% of travelers have filed a travel insurance claim—most due to medical emergencies. (Business Insider)
A medical evacuation from the Philippines to Singapore can cost $30,000 (₱1.75 million)—a financial disaster without coverage. (Luma Health)
In 2023, over 4,029 motorcycle crashes were recorded in the Philippines alone, highlighting the risks of travel-related accidents. (Luma Health)
Expert Tip: The cost of travel insurance is just a fraction of what a hospital stay abroad could cost. In countries like Japan or the U.S., medical bills can reach millions of pesos—without insurance, you’re footing the entire bill. Stay smart, stay covered!
Many travelers don’t think about medical emergencies—until they happen. But without travel insurance, a sudden illness or accident overseas can turn into a logistical and financial nightmare. Here’s what you’re risking:
Unlike in the Philippines, where payment plans may be an option, many international hospitals require full payment before treatment or upon discharge. If you can’t pay, they may refuse care altogether—even in emergencies.
PhilHealth and most domestic health insurance plans don’t cover international medical expenses. Even if they do offer some reimbursement, it’s usually a fraction of the actual cost, leaving you to pay the rest out of pocket.
Without insurance, you may be forced to choose cheaper medical facilities that lack advanced equipment or English-speaking doctors. In some cases, you may even need to travel to a different city or country to find proper care—adding to your expenses.
Philippine embassies and consulates can assist with referrals to medical facilities and help you contact family members, but they won’t pay for hospital bills, medical treatments, or emergency evacuations. You’re on your own financially.
A serious medical emergency abroad can cost hundreds of thousands—even millions—of pesos. Without insurance, you may have to drain your savings, max out credit cards, or borrow money just to afford treatment. Some travelers even turn to crowdfunding to pay hospital bills and arrange transportation home.
Ana was loving her Bangkok adventure—exploring markets, taking in the sights, and indulging in delicious street food. But what started as a food trip turned into a nightmare when severe food poisoning hit. After 24 hours of nonstop vomiting and weakness, her friend rushed her to the hospital.
Doctors found Ana severely dehydrated—she needed IV fluids, medication, and monitoring. The two-day hospital stay? A whopping THB 45,000 (₱67,500). And with no travel insurance, she had no choice but to charge it all to her credit card, racking up interest that took her almost a year to pay off.
“I thought travel insurance was an unnecessary expense,” Ana admitted. “I kept thinking, ‘I’d rather spend that money on shopping or experiences.’ But after what happened, I’ll never travel without insurance again.”
Lesson learned? A small investment in travel insurance could save you from a financial nightmare. Don’t let a medical emergency ruin your trip—and your budget!
A dream vacation can quickly turn into a disaster if you get sick or injured abroad. Without travel insurance, even a minor medical issue can leave you with massive bills and limited options for care. Here’s how travel insurance with medical coverage protects you—both medically and financially:
Covers doctor’s visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and other necessary treatments. Whether it’s food poisoning in Thailand or a sudden flu in Japan, your medical expenses are taken care of.
Pays for room and board, nursing care, and essential hospital services. A single hospital night abroad can cost ₱10,000 to ₱50,000 or more, depending on the country—insurance ensures you won’t have to pay out of pocket.
Got a chipped tooth or unbearable dental pain? Travel insurance covers emergency dental treatment, so you don’t have to suffer through your trip.
If a doctor prescribes medication during your trip, your insurance helps cover the cost—no need to worry about expensive foreign pharmacy prices.
If the local hospital isn’t equipped to handle your condition, your policy covers transportation to the nearest medical facility—or even back to the Philippines if necessary. Medical evacuations can cost ₱1M+—but with insurance, you’re covered.
In the worst-case scenario, travel insurance covers the cost of returning your remains to the Philippines. It’s a tough topic, but an essential safety net for your loved ones.
Lost in translation at a foreign hospital? Your policy gives you access to a 24/7 helpline with medical professionals who can arrange care, talk to doctors, and handle payments—so you can focus on recovery.
Mark had been dreaming of his European tour for years. But just three days into his trip to Rome, he slipped on wet marble steps—fracturing his ankle. Instead of panicking over medical costs and language barriers, he did one thing: called Oona’s emergency assistance hotline.
Within an hour, Oona had:
Directed him to a reputable hospital nearby
Arranged for an English-speaking representative to assist him
Guaranteed payment to the hospital
Notified his emergency contact back home
Mark received top-notch care, including X-rays, casting, crutches, and pain medication. The total bill? €2,800 (₱168,000)—fully covered by his Oona travel insurance, which had cost him just ₱2,500 for two weeks.
“The Oona team even helped modify my accommodations since I couldn’t climb stairs to my original hotel room,” Mark shared. “What could have been a vacation-ending disaster turned into just a minor setback. I still got to enjoy most of my trip—just at a slightly slower pace.”
A single accident abroad can cost you hundreds of thousands—but with the right travel insurance, you get help when you need it most. Travel smart. Travel protected.
When it comes to traveling abroad, medical emergencies can be unpredictable—and expensive. Oona Insurance ensures Filipino travelers get the best medical coverage possible, so you can explore the world with confidence. Here’s what makes Oona stand out:
Medical treatment abroad can be incredibly expensive, with even a simple doctor’s visit costing thousands of pesos. If you require emergency care while traveling, Oona covers the cost of doctor consultations, urgent care, ER treatments, medications, surgeries, and specialized medical procedures. Whether it’s a sudden flu, food poisoning, or a serious injury, you can seek treatment without worrying about how to pay for it. Plus, with direct billing arrangements in many hospitals, you won’t need to pay upfront and wait for reimbursement—Oona takes care of it for you.
A single night in a hospital overseas can cost more than your entire trip. Oona covers hospital stays, including room and board, ICU expenses, surgeries, and necessary medical services. This ensures that if you require extended care, you won’t have to shoulder the massive costs on your own.
A sudden toothache or dental emergency can be a major inconvenience when you’re far from home. Oona covers urgent dental care for severe pain or injuries, ensuring you get the treatment you need without derailing your trip. Whether it’s a cracked tooth from an accidental fall or an infection requiring immediate attention, your policy helps cover the costs so you can continue enjoying your travels.
If you suffer a serious illness or injury and the nearest hospital isn’t equipped to provide adequate care, Oona covers the cost of transporting you to a better-equipped medical facility—or even arranging your safe return to the Philippines. Medical evacuations can cost over ₱2 million, making this one of the most critical benefits of travel insurance. In the worst-case scenario, Oona also provides coverage for repatriation, ensuring that your loved ones don’t have to shoulder unexpected costs during an already difficult time.
Getting sick in a foreign country can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t speak the local language or are unfamiliar with the healthcare system. Oona provides round-the-clock emergency assistance to help you navigate the situation. Whether you need help finding a hospital, arranging direct billing, or even communicating with medical staff, Oona’s emergency team is available 24/7 to ensure you receive the right care as quickly as possible.
Many travel insurance providers completely exclude pre-existing conditions, making it difficult for travelers with ongoing health concerns to get coverage. Oona stands out by offering select plans that provide coverage for stable, controlled medical conditions. This is a major advantage for those who need extra protection while traveling, ensuring they can access medical care without worrying about exclusions.
Medical emergencies are stressful enough without having to worry about paying large hospital bills upfront. Unlike many insurers that require travelers to cover expenses first and then wait for reimbursement, Oona has direct billing arrangements with hospitals in multiple countries. This means you can receive medical treatment without paying out of pocket, making the process seamless and worry-free.
Some medical conditions require follow-up treatment even after you return home. Oona provides coverage for necessary medical care once you’re back in the Philippines, including doctor consultations, therapy, and prescription medications. This ensures that your recovery isn’t disrupted due to financial concerns, allowing you to get back to full health without additional expenses.
Medical emergencies while traveling don’t just bring hospital bills—they can disrupt your entire trip, leaving you with unexpected expenses and logistical challenges. That’s why Oona’s travel insurance goes beyond medical coverage, ensuring you’re protected from additional financial burdens caused by illness or injury abroad. Here’s how Oona has your back:
If a medical emergency forces you to cut your trip short, Oona reimburses you for unused, prepaid travel expenses, such as hotel bookings, flights, and tours. This ensures you don’t lose money on plans you can no longer enjoy. Instead of worrying about wasted expenses, you can focus on getting the care you need.
Recovering from an illness or injury might mean needing extra nights at a hotel or alternate transportation to continue your trip safely. Oona covers additional lodging and transport expenses related to your medical situation, so you don’t have to dip into your savings just to recover in comfort.
Being hospitalized in a foreign country can be overwhelming, especially when you’re alone. Oona covers the travel costs for a family member to join you if you’re hospitalized for an extended period. Having a loved one by your side can make all the difference in your recovery, and with Oona, you won’t have to worry about the added expense of bringing them over.
If you’re traveling with children and are hospitalized or unable to care for them, Oona ensures they return safely to the Philippines with an accompanied guardian. Whether it’s covering flight costs or arranging proper supervision, Oona provides peace of mind that your little ones will be taken care of while you focus on your recovery.
Medical issues can cause unexpected travel delays or missed flight connections, leading to additional expenses for rebooking, lodging, and meals. Oona covers these extra costs, ensuring that a medical setback doesn’t turn into a costly travel disaster. Whether your recovery causes a slight delay or forces you to adjust your entire itinerary, you’re protected from unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses.
Even with travel insurance, dealing with a medical emergency abroad can be overwhelming. Knowing the right steps to take can help you get the care you need quickly and ensure your insurance covers your expenses. Here’s what to do if you fall ill while traveling:
If your condition is not an emergency, call your insurance provider’s emergency assistance number before going to a hospital or clinic. They can guide you to partner hospitals, arrange direct billing, and confirm coverage, helping you avoid out-of-pocket expenses or unnecessary medical costs.
Save all medical reports, prescriptions, receipts, and invoices from your treatment. These documents will be required when filing an insurance claim. Even minor expenses, such as medications or diagnostic tests, should be documented to ensure maximum reimbursement.
Let a trusted travel companion, family member, or friend know about your situation. If you're traveling alone, inform your hotel staff or local embassy for additional support. Keeping someone updated ensures you have assistance if your condition worsens or if you need help arranging further medical care.
For minor illnesses, a doctor’s visit or clinic consultation may be enough. However, if you experience severe symptoms, seek emergency care immediately. Do not wait if you have:
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
Severe abdominal pain
High fever that doesn't respond to medication
Significant injuries or uncontrolled bleeding
Severe allergic reactions
Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking
Delaying treatment in these situations can lead to serious complications. If you need immediate care, go to the nearest hospital and contact your insurance provider as soon as possible.
Once you receive medical attention, follow the doctor's recommendations and take prescribed medications as directed. If your condition requires rest, additional treatment, or even an early return home, adjust your travel plans accordingly. Ignoring medical advice could worsen your condition and make recovery more difficult.
Perhaps the most valuable part of having travel insurance isn’t the coverage limits or the reimbursement benefits—it’s the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re protected no matter what happens. Instead of worrying about how to pay for unexpected medical bills or handle a disrupted trip, you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your travels and taking care of your health if the need arises.
"I never thought I'd need to use my travel insurance," shared Paolo, who developed bronchitis during a winter trip to South Korea. "But when I did get sick, knowing I could focus on getting better rather than worrying about costs made all the difference. I've had friends who had to cut trips short or borrow money because they didn’t have insurance. The stress alone can make you feel worse."
Travel should be exciting and worry-free, and having the right coverage means you can fully enjoy your adventures without the ‘what ifs.’ Whether it’s a sudden illness, an accident, or an unexpected trip disruption, travel insurance gives you the confidence to explore the world—without financial stress weighing you down.
Not all travel insurance plans are the same, and selecting the right one can make all the difference in ensuring adequate protection for your trip. Before purchasing a policy, consider these key factors to match your coverage with your travel needs:
Healthcare expenses differ greatly depending on where you’re traveling. Countries like the United States, Japan, and Western Europe have some of the highest medical costs in the world, meaning you’ll need higher coverage limits to avoid out-of-pocket expenses. In contrast, medical care in Southeast Asian countries is generally more affordable, so a lower coverage limit may suffice. Always check the average medical costs in your destination and choose your policy accordingly.
The longer your trip, the higher the chances of needing medical care. A weekend getaway may require only basic coverage, while an extended stay of several weeks or months increases the likelihood of illness, injury, or the need for medical attention. If you’re staying abroad for an extended period, consider comprehensive coverage that includes hospitalization, follow-up treatments, and medical evacuation if necessary.
If your trip involves activities like skiing, scuba diving, hiking, or extreme sports, check if your insurance covers hazardous activities. Many standard travel insurance plans exclude injuries sustained from high-risk activities, but some offer special add-ons or adventure sports coverage to protect you in case of an accident.
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, don’t assume all travel insurance policies will cover it. Some plans exclude pre-existing conditions, while others offer specific coverage for stable, well-managed health conditions. If you require medication or regular check-ups, make sure your policy includes coverage for any potential flare-ups or necessary medical care.
Age can impact both coverage limits and eligibility for certain travel insurance plans. Older travelers may require higher coverage limits due to increased health risks, and some policies have age restrictions or different premium rates for senior travelers. If you're over 60, ensure your plan provides sufficient medical coverage and does not have limitations based on age.
When it comes to travel insurance, not all policies are created equal. Oona Insurance is designed specifically with Filipino travelers in mind, offering comprehensive medical coverage, transparent pricing, and a hassle-free experience—so you can travel with confidence. Here’s why Oona is the best choice for your next trip:
Oona understands the unique needs of Filipino travelers, from budget-friendly options to coverage for destinations with high medical costs. Whether you’re visiting family abroad, exploring new destinations, or working overseas, Oona ensures you’re protected against unexpected medical emergencies, trip delays, and more.
Unlike some travel insurance providers that bury exclusions in fine print, Oona offers clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. You know exactly what you’re paying for—so you’re never caught off guard when you need to make a claim.
Nobody wants to deal with complicated paperwork while recovering from an illness or injury abroad. Oona makes filing a claim quick and simple with its digital-first process, ensuring you get reimbursements fast—so you can focus on getting better, not chasing documents.
Whether you’re backpacking across Asia, going on a luxury vacation, or traveling for work, Oona offers a range of plans that cater to different travel styles, destinations, and budgets. Need coverage for adventure sports or pre-existing conditions? Oona has options to ensure you get the right protection for your trip.
Traveling abroad can be overwhelming, especially in emergency situations. Oona provides round-the-clock customer support, ensuring Filipino travelers get the assistance they need—whether it’s help finding a hospital, arranging medical evacuation, or sorting out claim concerns.
"Buti na lang may Oona Insurance ako nung nagkasakit anak ko sa Japan."
“Habang nasa Japan, biglang nagka-severe ear infection ang anak ko. Hindi ko alam kung saan pupunta, pero buti na lang, Oona’s team guided us to a pediatric specialist at sila na rin nag-asikaso ng paperwork. Hindi ko na kailangang mag-worry sa gastos o language barrier—nakapag-focus na lang ako sa pagpapagaling ng anak ko.” - Marissa, 42, Manila
"I sprained my ankle in Vietnam, but Oona saved my trip!"
“Na-sprain ko nang malala yung ankle ko sa isang walking tour sa Vietnam. Akala ko uuwi na lang ako nang hindi natuloy ang trip, pero Oona covered my medical expenses at tinulungan pa akong maghanap ng mas convenient na transportation para ma-enjoy ko pa rin yung ibang plano ko. Sobrang laking ginhawa! - Ramon, 35, Cebu
"Finally, travel insurance na pasok sa needs at budget ko!"
"May controlled hypertension ako and finding travel insurance na hindi mahal was always difficult. Buti na lang, Oona offers coverage na kasama yung condition ko at sakto sa budget ko. Mas kampante na akong bumiyahe ngayon!." - Eleanor, 58, Davao
Travel insurance might seem like an extra expense—until you actually need it. Compared to the sky-high costs of a medical emergency abroad, the small amount you pay for coverage is a no-brainer investment in your safety and peace of mind. Just look at the numbers:
A comprehensive travel insurance policy for a week-long trip to Asia might cost ₱500-1,500
A single day in a Singapore hospital could cost ₱14,000-200,000
Medical evacuation from remote locations can exceed ₱2,000,000
For just a tiny fraction of your total travel budget, you get protection from expenses that could drain your savings and take years to pay off. A safe, worry-free trip is always worth it.
No one expects to get sick or injured while on vacation, but the truth is, unexpected things happen—and when they do, being prepared makes all the difference. A minor illness can turn into a major crisis if you’re stuck with sky-high medical bills in a foreign country.
With Oona Travel Insurance, you get more than just medical coverage—you get 24/7 support, hassle-free claims, and financial protection when you need it most. From sudden illnesses to unexpected accidents, Oona has your back wherever you go.
Don't leave your health and finances to chance. Make sure you're covered—explore Oona's travel insurance options today!
Remember: The best souvenirs are memories, not medical bills!
