Heading to the land of smiles? No matter your taste, Thailand is sure to please. However, trouble
can arise even in the most idyllic paradise. That's why you need travel insurance.
Our 24/7 Emergency Team are a call away. They liaise with hospitals to arrange treatment, transfers and evacuations.
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Expect peace of mind during the unexpected. We cover a number of reasons, including illness and injury if you need to cancel your trip.
What's travelling without travel delays? If you're delayed for more than six hours, we offer compensation to make life a little easier.
Unlike many insurers, we specifically cover terrorism in our policy, to assist travellers caught in dangerous situations.
If you hold a licence recognised in the country you are travelling, and you're wearing a helmet, you can get cover with us.
Cheeky monkey (or thief) stolen your phone? Our policies offer different levels of cover to suit all those clever gadgets you can't leave home without.
Length does matter. Most insurers only insure travellers up to one year, but TINZ policies have a maximum duration of 18 months.
Setting sail? Don't go elsewhere. Cruise cover is is automatically included in all TINZ policies, so you know you're covered from the ship to the shore.
Heading to Thailand? Our travelling experts fill you in on all you need to know about visas, visiting, getting around,
and most importantly - which dishes to try!
New Zealand passport holders do not require a visa to visit Thailand for tourist visits of 30 days or less if entering via an international airport, and up to 15 days if entering through a neighbouring country's land border under the Visa Exemption Rule.
You will need:
- A passport with at least six months validity with at least two blank pages.
- A return ticket/proof of onward travel.
- Proof of accommodation and of funds of at least 10,000THB per person ( ~$470NZD), or 20,000THB (~940NZD).
These rules can change quickly, so be sure to get in contact with your nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate.
The climate throughout Thailand is highly variable, so you really can visit all year round. Those cloudless Instagram photos you've seen were probably taken during the cool and dry season, between November and February. Be warned that during Thailand's "cool" season, temperatures still regularly reach 30°C though! Otherwise, the hot season is March to May, where temperatures reach 35-40°C most days. If you're keen for a bargain and don't mind getting wet, the low season for tourists is May through to October, which also happens to be monsoon season.
Etiquette is important, particularly when visiting cultural sites. Shoulders and knees should be covered for all people. You may be denied entry if you show too much skin. Always remember to remove your shoes as well. If you are concerned about shoe thieves, maybe bring a pair of flip flops instead of your favourite sneakers.
Cash is king here. Outside of high-end restaurants, hotels and malls, Thailand is very much a cash-economy. ATMs are widely available, and make sure you have smaller bills and coins - many smaller stores and taxi drivers don't have or a disinclined to give change.
While renting a scooter or motorbike is very popular, it's important to note that if you don't have a NZ motorbike licence and International Rider's Permit, you won't be covered with most insurance brands. Given Thailand's notorious record for road accidents, it might be better to hop in a taxi instead.
Anticipate language barriers - while English is spoken widely in many of the popular touristy spots, you'll find you don't have to head far before you're you're going to struggle. So bring the phrasebook.
Patriotism is important here. The National Anthem is played twice a day, and the King's Anthem is played before films in the cinema. There is an expectation that everyone will stand during these times.
There are four main intercity bus types in Thailand - 'ordinary' rot thammadaa buses which are usually orange and are not airconditioned, and three blue rot air/rot thua (2nd, 1st and VIP). Ordinary and 2nd class buses make up most of the Thai bus system, and are inexpensive and run frequently. Bus stops are small wooden structures with bench seats along the main bus routes. 1st and VIP buses are best for long-distance journeys because a) you'll have a toilet and b) you'll also have set seating so you know you won't miss out.
Domestic flights can also be a great option for the long distances, and can save you days of travelling if you're trying to see cities that are spread far apart. There a number of low-cost, no-frills airlines, or full-service Thai or Bangkok Airways. Reserving early (weeks or months in advance) can save you significant money.
For local travel, taxis and tuk tuks are most popular. Make sure you lock in your price before you depart, and strongly assert that you don't want any other stops - otherwise, you may find that you are being encouraged to go shopping at the driver's friend's store.
Renting a bike, motorcycle or a car is also an option, and the roads are straightforward despite their safety record and congestion in the cities. But if you're prone to worrying - about stolen bikes or injuries - the low price of other modes of transport are definitely worth the lower stress levels.
In Thailand's history there have been dissensions from time to time, but in general, unity has prevailed.
- Bhumibol Adulyadej, Former King of Thailand.
Takeaway staple, pad thai, is ubiquitous here, but it is more flavourful and delicious than back home (and will generally only cost you a dollar). Tom yum soup is a spicy, sour soup often served with prawns which you will want to try at least more than once, while laap is a minced meat seasoned with lime, rice powder, fish sauce and herbs. It is typically eaten with rice or lettuce leaves by hand. Phat kaphrao is also a popular street staple, combining meats fried with basil and served with more than a little fresh chilli, garlic, rice, and a fried egg. Delicious!
While Thailand's north is sometimes thought of exclusively as farmlands, but the wetlands are some of the most beautiful in the world. Best visited December through to February, Lotus Lake in Tambon Chiang Haeo, is thick with pink lotus blooms and more than 80 species of birds.
If you like diving, then Koh Tao aka Turtle Island should be your first stop. The coral is incredible, and depending on the time of year, you might just have an encounter with a whale shark or a turtle.
The Phi Phi Islands are just a 90-minute ferry ride from Phuket, and are great for swimming and hiking.
For culture seekers, check out the Grand Palace in Bangkok - the official residence of the Thai monarchy until 1925. For one of the most sacred temples in all of Thailand, visit Wat Phra Kaew aka the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. It houses Phra Kaeo Morakot - an image of Buddha carved from a single block of jade.
Planning on heading elsewhere on your trip? Whether you're saying 'Hey!' to the USA, or you're chilling in China, TINZ has you covered.
Are the sun-baked beaches of Thailand calling your name? If you’re planning several trips to Thailand this year a frequent traveller policy can save you time and money.
Get full cover for less. Our annual multi-trip policy lets you leave New Zealand as many times as you like over a 12 month period. You can leave for up to 15 or 90 days, so whether you like a lot of short stints, or a few long trips, there's a multi-trip policy which might just work for you.
Please be advised that this policy is only available for travellers who are under the age of 64.
Travelling to Thailand but still have questions about our travel insurance? We're happy to help with our frequently asked questions.
Yes, so long as you wear a helmet (regardless of whether you are the driver or riding pillion) and hold a valid license that is recognised in Thailand. If you were to sustain an injury while riding a motorbike or scooter you’d be covered provided you abide by the above.
Unlike most insurers we don’t exclude terrorism. If you’re caught up in an act of terror, we’ll pay for your flight home, cover your medical costs and in some cases, reimburse you for trip cancellation. See Policy Document for further details.
At TINZ we cater to those with a taste for adventure. We cover a wide range of adventure sports such as bungee jumping, scuba diving (max depth 30 metres), jet skiing, kayaking and more. Click to see what activities we cover.
In the event that you are affected by an unforeseen natural disaster (and have bought a comprehensive policy), you would be covered for travel disruptions, additional accommodation expenses and lost deposits. However, in order to be covered you would need to have purchased a policy before news of the natural disaster hit the mainstream media.
As Thailand is a developing country there are medical risks you may be at risk of contracting.. However, you can be rest assured that all our policies cover you for unlimited medical benefits if you were to fall ill. This includes access to hospitals, ambulance, doctors and evacuation and repatriation home if required.
When it comes to alcohol we understand that for some, there’s no better way to kick off a holiday than with a poolside cocktail (or two). However, please note we may exclude any claims where excessive drugs or alcohol have been involved.
Yes- you’re covered for muggings provided of course, you were acting with reasonable care (i.e. did not leave your belongings unattended). If you’re the victim of a pickpocket (even of the cheeky monkey variety), you’d be covered for loss, theft and damage to your luggage and personal effects. If you are robbed it’s important that you get a police report and contact us as soon as possible.
Technically speaking, yes. Bear in mind the most we will pay for individual single items is $1,000, and $3,000 for personal computers, video recorders or cameras. If you are taking particularly expensive items on your holiday – make sure they are covered! Even if you’ve purchased our Comprehensive Plus plan (with a benefit amount of $25,000 for luggage and belongings), you would not be covered for a single item worth $25,000.
A dependant refers to your child or grandchild not in full-time employment under the age of 19 and travelling with you on your journey.
VISAS
BEST TIME TO VISIT
NEED TO KNOW TIPS
GETTING AROUND
WHAT TO EAT
WHERE TO GO
NEXT STOP!
