Peter MokoenaTravel insurance usually inflates the costs of travel; which is why finding affordable options is the smart thing to do. From lost luggage to unexpected medical emergencies, the potential pitfalls of travel can quickly turn a dream vacation into a financial nightmare.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 20 cheapest travel insurance providers in South Africa, breaking down their pricing, benefits, and what makes each one stand out. Whether you’re jetting off to Europe, backpacking through Asia, or enjoying a local getaway, this article will help you choose the right protection without breaking the bank.
Top 10 Cheapest Travel Insurance Providers in South Africa
Here are the top 10 providers offering the most budget-friendly travel insurance plans in 2025:
1. TravelInsure.co.za
- Starting Premium: From R99 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: Offers instant quotes and customizable coverage.
- Highlights: Underwritten by Genric Insurance, includes medical, cancellation, and baggage cover.
TravelInsure is a favorite among South Africans for its simplicity and affordability. You can tailor your plan to suit your destination, travel duration, and risk level.
2. Heymondo
- Starting Premium: From R120 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: App-based claims and no excess.
- Highlights: Up to $10 million in medical coverage, 24/7 assistance.
Heymondo is ideal for tech-savvy travelers who want a seamless digital experience. Their mobile app makes filing claims and accessing support incredibly easy.
3. Hollard Travel Insurance
- Starting Premium: From R130 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: Competitive pricing with strong brand reputation.
- Highlights: Covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost baggage.
Hollard is one of South Africa’s most trusted insurers. Their travel plans are straightforward and reliable, making them a solid choice for first-time travelers.
4. Santam Travel Insurance
- Starting Premium: From R135 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: Offers optional COVID-19 coverage.
- Highlights: Strong repatriation benefits and emergency medical cover.
Santam’s travel insurance is particularly popular among older travelers and those with pre-existing conditions, thanks to its robust medical support.
5. OUTsurance Travel Insurance
- Starting Premium: From R140 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: Fixed premiums and transparent pricing.
- Highlights: Includes travel delay cover and emergency assistance.
OUTsurance is known for its customer service and easy-to-understand policies. Their travel insurance is no exception, offering great value for money.
6. Discovery Travel Insurance
- Starting Premium: From R145 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: Discounts for Vitality members.
- Highlights: Global medical network and lifestyle-linked benefits.
If you’re a Discovery Vitality member, you can unlock significant savings. Their plans are ideal for health-conscious travelers.
7. 1st for Women Travel Insurance
- Starting Premium: From R150 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: Tailored for female travelers.
- Highlights: Includes trauma support and emergency assistance.
This provider offers unique benefits for women, including support services and coverage for personal safety incidents.
8. King Price Travel Insurance
- Starting Premium: From R155 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: Decreasing premiums over time.
- Highlights: Flexible trip duration options and loyalty rewards.
King Price is known for its quirky marketing and innovative pricing model. Their travel insurance follows suit, offering great deals for repeat customers.
9. MiWay Travel Insurance
- Starting Premium: From R160 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: Online claims and digital-first service.
- Highlights: Emergency medical and evacuation cover.
MiWay is perfect for travelers who prefer managing everything online. Their platform is user-friendly and efficient.
10. Standard Bank Travel Insurance
- Starting Premium: From R165 per trip
- Why It’s Cheap: Integrated with banking services.
- Highlights: Easy online purchase and optional upgrades.
Standard Bank offers travel insurance as part of its financial services, making it convenient for existing customers.
Providers Ranked 11–20
These providers offer slightly higher premiums but still fall within the affordable range:
| Rank | Provider | Starting Premium | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | FNB Travel Insurance | From R170/trip | Free cover for account holders, optional upgrades |
| 12 | ABSA Travel Insurance | From R175/trip | Bundled with banking services, strong claims support |
| 13 | Old Mutual Travel | From R180/trip | Customizable plans, strong legacy brand |
| 14 | Sanlam Travel | From R185/trip | Multi-trip options, family cover available |
| 15 | Momentum Travel | From R190/trip | Multiply rewards, lifestyle-linked benefits |
| 16 | Avbob Travel | From R195/trip | Funeral repatriation included, ideal for seniors |
| 17 | Auto & General Travel | From R200/trip | Competitive pricing, loyalty rewards |
| 18 | Dialdirect Travel | From R205/trip | SmartDrive app integration, flexible excess options |
| 19 | BrightRock Travel | From R210/trip | Needs-matched cover, tailored for long stays |
| 20 | Prime Meridian Travel | From R215/trip | Simplified underwriting, mobile-first policies |
These providers are excellent for travelers with specific needs—such as family coverage, long-term travel, or integration with banking and rewards programs.
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance
Choosing the cheapest provider isn’t just about price—it’s about value. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Destination
Some providers offer better coverage for specific regions. For example, if you’re traveling to the U.S., make sure your plan includes high medical limits.
2. Trip Duration
Short trips can be covered with single-trip policies, while frequent travelers should consider multi-trip or annual plans.
3. Medical Coverage
Look for plans with at least R1 million in emergency medical cover. If you have pre-existing conditions, check for exclusions.
4. Adventure Activities
Planning to ski, scuba dive, or hike? Make sure your policy covers adventure sports.
5. COVID-19 Coverage
Some providers still offer pandemic-related protection, including quarantine costs and trip cancellations.
6. Claims Process
A fast, digital claims process can save you time and stress. Providers like Heymondo and MiWay excel here.
Where to Compare and Buy
To find the best deal, use comparison platforms like:
These sites let you compare premiums, benefits, and exclusions side-by-side.
Why Travel Insurance Matters
Before diving into the list, let’s quickly revisit why travel insurance is essential:
- Medical Emergencies: Covers hospital stays, doctor visits, and emergency evacuations.
- Trip Cancellation: Reimburses costs if your trip is canceled due to illness, natural disasters, or other covered reasons.
- Lost or Delayed Baggage: Helps replace essentials and recover losses.
- Travel Delays: Covers accommodation and food if you’re stranded due to flight issues.
- Personal Liability: Protects you if you accidentally cause harm or damage abroad.
Even the most budget-conscious traveler should never skip insurance. Fortunately, South Africa offers a wide range of affordable options.
Final Thoughts
Travel insurance is one of the smartest investments you can make before a trip. And in South Africa, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get solid protection. Whether you’re a student on a budget, a family planning a holiday, or a solo adventurer, there’s a cheap travel insurance plan that fits your needs.
By choosing one of the providers listed above, you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re covered—without draining your travel fund. So go ahead, book that flight, pack your bags, and explore the world with confidence.