03. Travel Insurance
While not mandatory, travel insurance can be a smart move. It covers unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. Even though Aruba has good medical facilities, dealing with unexpected costs isn't fun.
Here's the reality: your US health insurance (including Medicare) typically won't cover you in Aruba, and medical facilities here require upfront payment. A simple clinic visit can run hundreds of dollars, and if you need serious care or a medical evacuation, you're looking at costs that can easily hit $40,000 or more. Most travelers opt for a policy with at least $100,000 in medical coverage and $250,000 in evacuation coverage.
Travel insurance also covers things beyond medical emergencies—flight cancellations, lost baggage, trip interruptions due to weather, and even missed cruise connections. With activities like windsurfing, snorkeling, and diving being so popular here, having that safety net gives you peace of mind to fully enjoy your adventure without worrying about what-ifs.