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Travel insurance for Indonesia - comprehensive coverage for Indonesian travel from Spain
16 min readUpdated January 2026
Travel
2026
Asia-Pacific

Travel Insurance for Indonesia (2026): What You Need (Bali, Scooters, Surfing, Diving, Volcano Hikes)

Maya Kallio & Marco Elsinger
Maya Kallio & Marco ElsingerLicensed Insurance Agents · DGSFP

Quick Answer

Indonesia travel insurance must match your actual activities. Standard policies often exclude scooters, diving, and adventure sports—the exact things most travelers do in Bali and beyond.

  • Scooter coverage is the #1 claim denial trigger—confirm it's included with license/helmet requirements before you ride
  • Diving, surfing, and volcano hikes usually require add-ons or sports extensions—don't assume they're covered
  • Strong medical evacuation is essential for remote islands where getting to a proper hospital can cost more than treatment

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Indonesia?

You usually don't need it as a strict entry requirement (varies by nationality and special circumstances), but you should treat insurance as essential because Indonesia travel commonly involves:

Scooter Accidents

Very common. Scooters are the default transport in Bali and many islands. Even people who swear "I won't ride a scooter" often end up renting one.

Water Activities

Surfing, snorkeling, diving, boat trips. These are not "optional extras" in Indonesia—they're often the main reason people go.

Trekking & Volcano Hikes

Mount Batur, Ijen, Rinjani. Injury risk plus remote access. Many policies classify these as "hazardous."

Food Poisoning / Infections

Frequent travel medical issue. Dehydration, stomach bugs, and infections happen more often than people expect.

Long Domestic Travel Days

Missed connections, delays, disruptions. Multi-island itineraries are common and ferries/domestic flights can be unpredictable.

Medical Transport

Especially outside major centers. Getting to a better facility can be the expensive part, not the treatment itself.

In short: Indonesia is a high-experience destination with high activity exposure.

The #1 Mistake People Make with Indonesia Travel Insurance

The Trap

They buy a cheap policy that looks fine—until they actually do Indonesia things.

Typical Failure Points

Scooter riding not covered (or covered only under strict requirements)

Water sports and diving excluded (or require add-ons)

Trekking/volcano hiking classified as "hazardous"

Weak evacuation/repatriation wording

Reimbursement-only medical process (you pay everything first)

Unclear emergency assistance

Indonesia-Specific Risks That Should Shape Your Insurance Choice

1) Scooters Are the Default Transport in Bali and Many Islands

Even people who swear "I won't ride a scooter" often end up renting one because it's convenient. If you ride at all, you need to check:

  • Is scooter/motorbike riding covered?
  • Are there engine-size limits?
  • Do you need a specific license/permit?
  • Do helmets have to be worn for coverage validity?
  • Are passenger injuries covered?

If your plan excludes scooters and you rent one anyway, you're buying false protection.

2) Water Activities Are Not "Optional Extras" in Indonesia

Indonesia trips include:

Surfing lessons
Snorkeling
Boat trips
Scuba diving
Freediving
Jet skis / banana boats

Many standard policies exclude these without an activities/sports extension. If Indonesia is your destination, assume the extension may be necessary.

→ Full Scuba Diving Insurance Guide (Komodo, Raja Ampat, Bali)

3) Medical Logistics Can Matter More Than the Clinic Cost

In some locations, the issue isn't "doctor fee." It's:

  • Finding the right facility quickly
  • Coordination and authorization
  • Transfer to a better hospital if needed
  • Language and documentation for claims

That's why 24/7 assistance quality is a real value driver in Indonesia.

4) Volcano Hikes and Trekking Can Be Classified as "Hazardous"

If you plan:

Mount Batur sunrise hike (Bali)
Ijen crater (Java)
Rinjani trek (Lombok)
Komodo excursions with trekking
Canyoning, rafting, zip-lines

…confirm what your insurer calls "trekking," "mountaineering," altitude limits, and rescue coverage.

What a Good Indonesia Travel Insurance Policy Should Cover (2026 Checklist)

1Emergency Medical Coverage (Non-Negotiable)

Your policy should clearly cover:

  • Doctor visits and emergency treatment
  • Tests and imaging
  • Hospital stays if needed
  • Medication prescribed for the incident

Indonesia reality: Many travelers use private clinics for speed. Your plan should be structured for real use, not theoretical reimbursements.

2Medical Evacuation + Repatriation (The Catastrophic-Cost Shield)

This is the coverage that protects you if:

  • You're injured in a remote area
  • You need transfer to a better facility
  • You need medically necessary repatriation home

Tip: If you're choosing between two policies, stronger evacuation/repatriation + better assistance usually wins.

324/7 Emergency Assistance That Coordinates Care

This is what separates "insurance" from "a PDF you never use." Look for:

  • A real 24/7 hotline
  • Clear instructions on where to go
  • Help with approvals if required
  • Guidance on documentation and billing

In Indonesia, this is especially valuable when you're on an island or in a remote area.

4Scooter / Motorbike Coverage (Indonesia Decision-Maker)

If you might ride:

  • Confirm the policy includes it
  • Confirm conditions (license/permit/helmet rules)
  • Confirm if passenger injuries are included
  • Confirm whether off-road riding is excluded

This is the single most common "claim denial trigger" for Indonesia travelers.

5Water Sports and Diving Coverage (Second Decision-Maker)

If you plan surfing, snorkeling, diving, boat excursions, freediving—you need clarity:

  • Is it included or an add-on?
  • Are there depth limits for diving?
  • Do you need certification?
  • Are guided activities treated differently?

If you're doing Komodo or diving trips, don't guess.

6Trip Disruption Protection (Delays, Missed Connections)

Indonesia often involves:

  • Long-haul flight + domestic connection
  • Ferries between islands
  • Weather disruptions
  • Multi-stop itineraries

Look for: trip delay benefits (hotel/meals/transport), missed connection coverage, interruption coverage for covered reasons.

7Theft, Baggage, Electronics, and Documents

Common claims include:

  • Stolen phone
  • Lost bag in transit
  • Stolen wallet/passport

Check: theft requirements (police report often required), electronics sub-limits, baggage delay essentials coverage.

8Personal Liability (Recommended)

Useful if you:

  • Damage property (villas/apartments)
  • Injure someone accidentally
  • Ride scooters or do activities where accidents can involve others

Not the most common claim—but it protects against expensive edge cases.

Choose the Right Indonesia Insurance Based on Your Trip Style

Scenario A

Bali Chill Trip (Ubud + Beach, Minimal Activities)

Prioritize: Medical + evacuation/repatriation + assistance + theft

Even "relaxed Bali" still has scooter temptation and day tours.

Scenario B

Bali + Scooters Every Day (Canggu/Seminyak/Uluwatu)

Prioritize: Scooter coverage + medical + assistance + liability

This is where cheap policies fail the most.

Scenario C

Surf Trip (Uluwatu, Canggu, Lombok)

Prioritize: Water sports coverage + medical + assistance

Surfing can be classified as "sport" in some policies—confirm it.

Scenario D

Diving Trip (Komodo, Amed, Nusa Penida, Gili)

Prioritize: Diving add-on + evacuation + assistance

Diving is rarely "just included." You want clear terms.

Scenario E

Volcano Hikes / Trekking (Batur, Ijen, Rinjani)

Prioritize: Trekking coverage + rescue/evacuation + medical

Trekking exclusions are common. Don't assume "hiking = covered."

Scenario F

Multi-Island Itinerary (Bali → Lombok → Gili → Java)

Prioritize: Disruption coverage + assistance + theft + medical

Multi-stop travel increases delay risk and increases the value of strong support.

When Cancellation Coverage Is Worth It for Indonesia

Cancellation can be worth it if you booked:

Non-refundable long-haul flights
Expensive villas/resorts
Liveaboard diving trips
Multi-stop internal flights
Tours and retreats with strict refund rules

Important: Cancellation often has timing rules (commonly best purchased close to booking). To avoid cannibalizing your cancellation guide, we keep this section simple and Indonesia-focused.

Pre-existing Conditions (Don't Guess)

If you have a pre-existing condition (even stable), policy differences matter:

Some exclude anything linked to it

Some cover under strict rules

Some require disclosure

If this applies, tell us upfront so we filter policies correctly. Otherwise you risk buying a plan that looks good until you need it.

How Claims Usually Work in Indonesia (What to Expect)

There are two common experiences:

Experience 1: Coordinated Help (Best Case)

  • → You call assistance
  • → They direct you to a facility
  • → They guide approvals and documentation
  • → You're less likely to get stuck in billing confusion

Experience 2: Pay First, Claim Later (Worst Case)

  • → You pay out of pocket
  • → You collect invoices, reports, proof of payment
  • → You submit and wait

For Indonesia, aim for policies that give you the best chance of Experience 1—especially if your trip involves islands or activities.

What to Do If Something Goes Wrong in Indonesia (So Your Claim Gets Paid)

Medical Incident

  1. If urgent, get care first.
  2. Call insurer assistance as soon as possible.
  3. Collect:
    • Medical report / diagnosis
    • Itemized invoice
    • Proof of payment (if you paid)
    • Prescriptions and discharge notes

Scooter Accident

  • Document the incident clearly
  • Follow local requirements (and insurer instructions)
  • Collect medical documentation + any official reports if required

Be aware: Helmet/license compliance can matter depending on policy terms.

Theft / Lost Phone

  • File a police report if required
  • Keep proof of ownership if possible
  • Document time/place/what happened

Delays / Missed Connections

  • Get written confirmation from airline/ferry operator where possible
  • Keep receipts for extra hotel/meals/transport
  • Keep original booking confirmations

Rule: Documentation = payout. No documents = delays or denial.

Travel Insurance for Indonesia from Spain (Residents & Expats)

If you live in Spain, Indonesia trips often mean:

Long-haul connections
Multi-island itineraries
Higher reliance on private clinics
Activity-heavy travel days

That makes the best-fit structure usually:

  • Strong medical + evacuation/repatriation
  • Real 24/7 assistance
  • Scooter and water activity coverage (if relevant)
  • Optional cancellation if your bookings are expensive and non-refundable

Get an Indonesia Policy Shortlist (Fast)

Send us your Indonesia trip details and we'll recommend 2–3 best-fit policies with a clear "why this one" explanation:

Dates
Islands/areas (Bali/Lombok/Gili/Java/Komodo/etc.)
Ages
Scooter yes/no
Surfing/diving/trekking yes/no (which ones)
Cancellation yes/no
Pre-existing conditions yes/no
Get Indonesia Travel Insurance Quote

Frequently Asked Questions: Indonesia Travel Insurance

Related Travel Insurance Guides

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Written and reviewed by licensed insurance agents Maya Kallio and Marco Elsinger, who have helped over 15,000 expats in Spain since 2012.

Maya Kallio

Licensed Insurance Agent

Since 2012

Marco Elsinger

Licensed Insurance Agent

10+ years

Languages: English, Finnish, Spanish, German, Swedish

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions? Check these answers or get in touch.

Does travel insurance cover scooter accidents in Bali?

Not automatically. Many standard policies exclude motorcycles/scooters entirely or cover them only under strict conditions: valid local motorcycle license (international driving permit with motorcycle endorsement), helmet worn at all times, and sometimes engine size limits (usually under 125cc). Always confirm scooter coverage AND the specific requirements before you ride. This is the #1 claim denial trigger for Indonesia travelers.

Do I need special coverage for scuba diving in Indonesia (Komodo, Gili Islands, Nusa Penida)?

Usually yes. Most standard travel insurance policies either exclude diving entirely or require an activities/sports add-on. Check for: depth limits (commonly 18m for recreational, 30-40m with certification), certification requirements (PADI/SSI certification often required for deeper dives), and whether hyperbaric chamber treatment is covered. Indonesia's dive sites are world-class but often remote from decompression facilities.

Is surfing covered by travel insurance in Indonesia?

It depends on the policy. Some treat surfing as a covered water sport; others classify it as an 'amateur sport' requiring an extension. Key questions: Does the policy cover wave size limits? Are reef breaks treated differently? Is equipment (board) loss/damage included? For spots like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, or Desert Point, verify your policy covers the actual conditions you'll encounter.

Are volcano hikes (Mount Batur, Ijen, Rinjani) covered by travel insurance?

Not always. Some insurers classify volcano trekking as 'hazardous activity' or 'mountaineering.' Check: altitude limits (Rinjani summit is 3,726m), whether rescue/evacuation from remote terrain is included, and if guided tours are treated differently than independent hikes. Mount Batur sunrise hikes are generally lower-risk than multi-day treks like Rinjani, but confirm your specific policy terms.

What happens if I need medical evacuation from a remote Indonesian island?

This is where strong evacuation coverage proves its value. Getting from Gili Islands, Nusa Penida, or Komodo to a proper hospital in Bali or Singapore can cost thousands of euros in emergency transport (speedboat, helicopter, air ambulance). Good policies include: medical evacuation to nearest adequate facility, coordination through 24/7 assistance, and repatriation to your home country if medically necessary.

Does travel insurance cover dengue fever, food poisoning, or tropical infections in Indonesia?

Yes, medical emergencies from illness are typically covered under the emergency medical benefits of travel insurance. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, tests, and medications for conditions like dengue fever, traveler's diarrhea, infections, and dehydration. Keep all medical documentation and receipts for your claim.

Can I ride a scooter as a passenger and still be covered?

Policy terms vary. Some cover you as a passenger even if they exclude you as a driver; others exclude all motorcycle/scooter incidents regardless of your role. If you're planning to ride with someone else (partner, local transport, etc.), confirm passenger coverage specifically. Don't assume it's automatic.

What license do I need for scooter insurance coverage in Indonesia?

Most insurers require a valid motorcycle license from your home country, often combined with an International Driving Permit (IDP) with motorcycle endorsement. A standard car license typically won't satisfy insurance requirements for riding a scooter, even if local rental shops don't ask for it. Check your specific policy requirements before renting.

Does travel insurance cover missed ferries or delayed boats between Indonesian islands?

Trip delay and missed connection benefits vary by policy. Check: minimum delay threshold (often 6-12 hours), whether ferries/boats are specifically included (not just flights), and what expenses are covered (accommodation, meals, alternative transport). Keep written confirmation of delays from the operator and all receipts.

Is canyoning, white water rafting, or zip-lining covered in Bali?

These adventure activities are often excluded from standard travel insurance or require a sports/activities extension. Check your policy's 'hazardous activities' or 'adventure sports' definitions. Commercial operations with safety equipment may be treated differently than independent activities. Confirm coverage before booking these popular Bali experiences.

What if I get injured doing a sunrise hike and need rescue?

Search and rescue coverage varies significantly between policies. Some include it as part of medical evacuation; others cap it separately or exclude it entirely for certain activities. For hikes like Mount Batur, Ijen, or especially Rinjani, verify that your policy covers rescue from remote/mountain terrain and understand any altitude or activity restrictions that apply.

Does travel insurance cover me for longer stays in Indonesia (digital nomad, 30+ days)?

Standard single-trip policies often have maximum duration limits (commonly 30-90 days). For longer stays, you may need: an extended single-trip policy, multi-trip annual coverage, or specific digital nomad/long-stay travel insurance. Confirm your policy's maximum trip length matches your actual stay and that activities like scooter riding remain covered throughout.

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