Redpoint Destinations

Bahamas

Bahamas Travel Insurance

Why Travel Insurance is Essential for the Bahamas

The Bahamas are almost synonymous with paradise, and for good reason. The archipelago destination is made up of roughly 700 islands and cays, with only 30 of those inhabited by humans. It is known for its crystal clear waters, pink sand beaches, and the warm and friendly attitude of its locals. It is also a Caribbean hub of cruise ship itineraries from around the world.

But even in paradise, things can go wrong. Which is why it's so essential to take out Bahamas travel insurance before you go on your trip. From medical emergencies to trip delays and cancellations, you'll want to be prepared for anything that could go wrong and prevent expensive, out-of-pocket costs. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind that will mean you can enjoy everything that a trip to the Bahamas offers

Health & Safety in The Bahamas

Medical Care and Hospitals

Like many countries, the Bahamas has a mix of both public and private healthcare facilities. Private care is more expensive, and Nassau and Freeport have the highest quality facilities (such as Doctor’s Hospital in Nassau). However, patients requiring advanced or specialized care are often airlifted to the U.S., typically to Florida. Whether it’s private or public, medical care is not free for visitors, which is why travel medical insurance for the Bahamas is so essential, as well as emergency medical evacuation cover. Costs can add up quickly, especially if you require advanced care: Air ambulances to the U.S. typically cost $20,000. Always carry proof of your insurance coverage as well as any emergency contact numbers.

Safety Advice

You might be wondering: Is the Bahamas safe? Typically, yes. However, it’s worth knowing that the U.S. State Department advises that travelers exercise caution around water sports and swimming activities in the Bahamas. Jet skis and boating are not regulated, and deaths and injuries can occur due to unsafe weather conditions, poor equipment, or recklessness. In addition, there is a fair amount of petty crime directed at tourists, such as theft. While crime can occur in any area, it’s advised to stay out of non-touristed areas to avoid gang-related crime.

The Bahamas is also prone to hurricanes and extreme tropical weather events. Hurricane season is from June to November. If you are visiting during this time, pay attention to all local advisories and be aware of your accommodation’s evacuation plan

Health Risks and Vaccinations

There are no vaccinations required to visit the Bahamas. The CDC recommends being up to date on all routine vaccinations and also being vaccinated against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and measles, which is on the rise worldwide. In addition, the CDC recommends travelers take steps to prevent insect bites, as mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and zika are present in the region. Finally, it’s also wise to carry a basic medical kit with common over-the-counter medication, as well as spare prescription medication or copies of your prescriptions.

Insurance Benefits and Coverage for a Trip to The Bahamas

What Does Bahamas Travel Insurance Cover?

When considering travel insurance for the Bahamas, you will want to make sure your policy covers all the areas below so that you’ll be prepared — no matter what happens during your trip.

Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance:

Trip cancellation insurance reimburses your non-refundable trip expenses if your trip to the Bahamas is canceled or cut short due to a covered reason, like illness, severe weather, family emergencies, or certain government advisories. The Bahamas is located in the Caribbean, which is known for its changeable weather and hurricanes, so it’s wise to be covered in case of a catastrophic weather event.

Travel medical insurance:

Travel health insurance covers unexpected medical expenses incurred for any injuries or illnesses that happen during your trip. The Bahamas has a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. Visitors usually opt for private facilities, and while these are adequate for basic care and minor injuries, they are not free, and more serious emergency situations may require evacuation to the U.S. (see below). That’s why it’s so essential to have emergency medical coverage of at least $100,000. In addition, if you have pre-existing medical conditions, you’ll also need to apply for a waiver when you purchase your policy. Health insurance plans from the U.S. are typically not accepted.

Emergency medical evacuation insurance:

Emergency evacuation coverage reimburses you for transportation to the nearest medical facility or back to the U.S. in extreme or emergency situations. Advanced care in The Bahamas is limited, and air ambulances to the U.S. (usually Florida) are expensive, in the range of $20,000. So it’s vital to have this coverage as part of your travel insurance when you go to the Bahamas.

Baggage and personal belongings insurance:

Baggage coverage is a benefit that covers loss, theft, or damage to your belongings should they go missing during your trip to the Bahamas.

Trip delay insurance:

Trip delay insurance compensates for additional expenses if your travel is delayed before it starts or during any connections or transfers. This can be especially useful in the Bahamas, where tropical storms and hurricane season last from June until November.

Optional add-ons:

There are several additional policy benefits you can add to your travel insurance depending on the nature of your trip. These include cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage, if you think you may need to cancel for a reason not covered by the typical cancellation policy; extra protection for specialist or expensive gear; adventure sports travel insurance if you plan to do any extreme or dangerous activities; and car rental protection.

Choosing the Right Plan

Ripcord has a variety of plans suited for different trips to the Bahamas. For adventure travelers who want to explore the islands by ATV, or do adventure water sports, Ripcord is an extensive plan with high coverage limits and enhanced coverage, such as emergency evacuation and repatriation — perfect for trips to remote or rural destinations. Cavalry is suited for urban travelers who are seeking luxury and cultural experiences, while broadly sticking to major cities and established destinations such as the many resorts in Nassau and Freeport. Meanwhile, Harbor offers robust coverage to the budget-minded leisure traveler who may be backpacking through the Caribbean. You can compare all of Redpoint’s comprehensive plans and figure out which one might be right for your trip here.

Entry Requirements & Practical Information

Entry and Visa Requirements

No tourist visa is required for Americans to visit the Bahamas, and your passport only needs to be valid for the length of your stay. It’s a good idea to enroll in the State Department’s Safe Traveler Enrollment Plan (STEP) for up-to-date information on changing requirements and safety in the Bahamas.

What To Do in an Emergency

If you have an emergency in the Bahamas and require assistance, emergency services can be contacted by dialing 911 or 919. In addition, Redpoint offers 24/7 support on its helpline to travelers who have an emergency or need assistance. If you are having trouble locating help locally, Redpoint’s associates can help connect you to the help you need on the ground.

The U.S. Embassy is located in Nassau. Officials there can help you with passport issues, emergency assistance, and legal issues.

#42 Queen Street
Nassau, The Bahamas

Telephone: +(242) 322-1181
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(242) 322-1181

Popular Activities and Adventure Travel in the Bahamas

If you get bored of relaxing on white sand beaches, the Bahamas offers plenty of adventure, too. Hike and trek through lush trails in national parks like Lucayan or explore blue holes and caves on Andros. Cycle around quiet islands such as Eleuthera for scenic coastal views. Or go swimming with feral pigs (yes, pigs) in Big Major Cay, also known as Pig Beach, located in the Exuma Cays. You can also discover vibrant Bahamian culture through local tours in Nassau. Just don’t forget to make sure that your travel insurance policy will cover any extreme or adventure travel activities you plan to do.

FAQs for Bahamas Travel Insurance

Is travel insurance mandatory for the Bahamas?

Travel insurance is not mandatory to enter the Bahamas, but it is always a risk to embark on overseas travel without adequate coverage. Should anything go wrong during your trip, such as a medical emergency or a disrupted itinerary, your out-of-pocket costs can easily exceed the price of a travel insurance policy. Plus, the Bahamas doesn't have much advanced medical treatment, so air ambulance evacuation to the U.S. is more common than to other destinations for serious accidents and emergencies.

What does Bahamas travel insurance cover?

A comprehensive Bahamas travel insurance policy should include medical care and emergency medical coverage (at least $100,000 to cover medical emergencies and unexpected costs), emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage, and baggage loss protection. You should also look for a policy with 24/7 assistance services, which all of Redpoint's policies offer.

How much does travel insurance cost for the Bahamas?

Your travel insurance policy will be priced based on a range of factors, including trip length, cost, age, and activities. Most of Redpoint's insurance plans range from 6% to 15% of total trip costs.

What happens if a tourist gets sick in the Bahamas?

The Bahamas' healthcare system is a mix of public and private facilities, however neither of them is free for visitors from the U.S. Most visitors seek out private care from facilities because it is faster and more reliable. More severe cases are frequently airlifted to the U.S. for advanced care. That is why it's so important to have travel medical insurance to recoup the cost of any emergency medical expenses.

Does travel insurance cover trip cancellations due to government advisories?

Some travel insurance plans offer coverage for cancellations due to government-issued travel advisories, but this depends on the timing and nature of the advisory, as well as when you purchase your policy. If you're worried about political conditions or you suspect you may need to cancel your trip, it's wise to add-on cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage for added flexibility.

Can I get coverage for pre-existing conditions?

This will vary from policy to policy and by insurance company. Redpoint allows you to apply for a waiver for any pre-existing medical conditions if you purchase your insurance policy within 15 days after making your initial trip deposit.

Can I buy travel insurance after arriving in the Bahamas?

Typically, you need to purchase travel insurance prior to departure for your trip, and ideally, as soon as possible after booking your trip. Some providers may issue policies once you're already in the country, but those policies may be costlier and have more exclusions.

Protect your trip with Redpoint travel insurance

Protecting yourself on your trip to the Bahamas requires comprehensive travel insurance, and Redpoint Travel Protection has a global reputation for providing high-quality policies to fit every traveler. It also offers 24/7 support to give travelers peace of mind and help them enjoy their trips. Explore Redpoint’s policies here.