The Southeastern Asian nations of Thailand and Cambodia have long been dream destinations for backpackers and explorers, with myriad temples and shrines to discover, exciting cities, and incredible beaches.

However, the pandemic ground tourism in both nations to a halt. For several years, restrictive measures meant to curb the spread of COVID-19 made entry difficult, and their tourism industries suffered as a result.

Thankfully, these requirements have now ended, and travelers are welcome to visit Thailand or Cambodia restriction-free.

Post-Pandemic Travel to Thailand

Though Thailand entry restrictions had eased somewhat in 2022, travelers were still required to provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test as recently as last month. These restrictions ended on October 1, 2022. Travel to Thailand is now just as it was prior to the pandemic, with no testing, vaccination, or quarantine necessary. In fact, Thailand is offering longer visas on arrival as well, making it an even more attractive vacation destination.

Do I Need Travel Medical Insurance to Visit Thailand?

Thailand ended its mandatory travel medical insurance requirement on July 1, 2022. Travel medical insurance is now optional, but it is still highly recommended. Thailand has limited medical facilities, and visitors can suffer gastrointestinal issues due to unclean drinking water and unsanitary food. The nation is also at risk of typhoons and tropical storms, which can cause injury. If you need medical attention while visiting Thailand, you’ll want to have travel medical insurance to protect you from an expensive doctor’s bill.

Post-Pandemic Travel to Cambodia 

Cambodia ended its COVID testing requirement earlier this year, but travelers were still required to fill out a health declaration form and provide proof of vaccination in order to enter. As of October 6, these requirements have ended as well. You are now welcome to travel to Cambodia regardless of vaccination status, and with no testing or quarantine requirement.

Do I Need Travel Medical Insurance to Visit Cambodia?

Just as Thailand did, Cambodia ended their mandatory travel medical insurance requirement over the summer. However, the Cambodian government still recommends that all visitors purchase travel medical insurance with a minimum of $50,000 in coverage. Remember, there are far more health risks when traveling abroad than just COVID-19. A broken arm or bout of the flu in a foreign country could result in a hospital bill that exceeds your vacation budget, and your domestic health insurance isn’t going to provide coverage. Wherever you travel, have travel medical insurance on your side to get the treatment you need with a predictable bill.