Planning a trip to China? Whether you’re walking the Great Wall, exploring the Forbidden City, or tasting dim sum in Shanghai, travel insurance is a must! Here’s a breakdown of the best insurance providers, prices, and coverage details—plus some fun insights!
Top Travel Insurance for China
World Nomads – Best for Adventure Travelers
Covers adventure sports (hiking, skiing, and even martial arts training!)
Up to $100,000 in emergency medical coverage
Covers trip cancellations, lost luggage, and delays
Price: ~$50–$150 per trip
Great for trekking in Zhangjiajie or visiting Tibet!
Allianz Travel Insurance – Best for Long Trips
Annual multi-trip plans for frequent travelers
Up to $1 million in emergency evacuation coverage
24/7 multilingual assistance (helpful if you don’t speak Mandarin!)
Price: ~$50–$200 per trip / ~$275 per year
Ideal for business travelers & long-term visitors!
SafetyWing – Best for Digital Nomads & Budget Travelers
Subscription-based coverage (pay per month)
Medical coverage up to $250,000
COVID-19 coverage included
Price: ~$45/month (for travelers under 40)
Perfect for remote workers in Beijing or Shenzhen!
AXA Assistance – Best for Visa & Entry Requirements
Meets China’s visa requirements for travel insurance
Covers medical emergencies, lost luggage, and delays
24/7 emergency medical assistance
Price: ~$30–$120 per trip
Best for tourists needing visa-compliant insurance!
Travelex Insurance – Best for Families
Kids under 17 covered for free
Up to $500,000 for emergency evacuation
Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option available
Price: ~$50–$300 per trip
Perfect for a family adventure to Disney Shanghai or the Panda Reserves!
China Travel Insurance FAQ
Do I Need Travel Insurance for China?
Yes, highly recommended!
Travel insurance is not mandatory for tourists but required for some visa applications.
Healthcare for foreigners is expensive in private hospitals (and public hospitals require upfront payments).
How Much Does Travel Insurance for China Cost?
Typical costs:
Basic plan: ~$30–$80 per week
Comprehensive plan: ~$80–$200 per week
Annual plans: ~$275–$500 per year
Tip: The longer you stay, the cheaper it gets per day!
What Does China Travel Insurance Cover?
Medical expenses (hospital visits, doctor fees, prescriptions)
Emergency evacuation & repatriation
Trip cancellations & interruptions
Lost, stolen, or delayed luggage
Travel delays & flight cancellations
Adventure sports (if covered by your plan)
Fun Fact: Some plans even cover panda bites at wildlife sanctuaries!
Does Travel Insurance Cover COVID-19 in China?
Most providers include COVID-19 coverage for medical expenses.
Some also cover trip cancellations if you test positive.
Best for COVID-19 coverage: SafetyWing, Allianz, and AXA Assistance.
Check the fine print! Some policies exclude pandemics by default.
Can I Buy Travel Insurance After Arriving in China?
Yes, but fewer options!
SafetyWing & World Nomads allow you to buy insurance after arrival.
Most policies do not cover pre-existing issues, so don’t wait until you’re sick!
Does Travel Insurance Cover Adventure Activities?
Basic plans cover sightseeing & mild hikes.
If you’re practicing Kung Fu at Shaolin Temple or skiing in Harbin, you need adventure sports coverage.
Best for adventure travelers: World Nomads & Allianz.
What Happens if I Get Sick or Injured in China?
Go to a hospital or clinic (foreigners often need private hospitals).
Call your insurance provider for hospital recommendations.
Keep all receipts & paperwork for reimbursement.
Bonus Tip: Many Chinese hospitals require payment upfront—insurance helps you get reimbursed!
Is Credit Card Travel Insurance Enough?
Not always! Many credit card policies don’t cover medical expenses.
Check your card’s fine print before relying on it.
Fun Travel Insurance Tips for China!
Bitten by a Panda? Some insurance covers animal-related injuries!
Food Poisoning from Hot Pot? Medical expenses will be reimbursed if you overdo the spicy Sichuan dishes!
Missed Your High-Speed Train? If your flight delay causes you to miss the train, trip interruption insurance can refund you!
Lost Your Great Wall Tour Ticket? If your trip is delayed, your insurance might cover the lost experience!
Final Verdict – Best Travel Insurance for China
Best Overall: World Nomads
Best for Digital Nomads: SafetyWing
Best for Families: Travelex
Best for Visa Requirements: AXA Assistance
Best for Adventure Travelers: Allianz
Now you’re ready to explore China stress-free!
Where in China are you going?