Great Eastern Travel Insurance Review: Covid-19 Coverage, Promotions, Premiums & Money News

Is Great Eastern Still a Game‑Changer in Travel Insurance?

Back in the day, when shoulder pads ruled the gym, Great Eastern’s travel insurance was the go‑to pick. Fast forward to today, the market’s flooded with fresh‑waved planners—AIG, FWD, AXA, NTUC—each claiming the crown. So, does the old Red Lion still hold any sway?

2022 Face‑Off: Great Eastern vs. the Contenders

• Great Eastern: Solid pandemic coverage, but limited add‑ons and a slightly steeper premium.
• AIG: Broad global reach, extra travel‑perks—great for globe‑trotters.
• FWD: Slim, digital‑first design, but the pandemic package feels a little thin.
• AXA: Comprehensive burn‑through protection; a bit pricey though.
• NTUC: Budget‑friendly, but coverage focus is narrower.

Short answer: the Red Lion can still win in markets where trust and brand heritage matter, but it will need to level up its pandemic playbook to stay competitive.

1. Great Eastern Covid Travel Insurance: Premiums

How Great Eastern’s Travel Insurance Has Evolved (and What That Means For Your Vacations)

Remember when you could grab a “Great Eastern Travel Smart” policy and feel all set for that beach escape? Well, those days are behind us. Great Eastern has pulled the veil over two of its former brands—Great Eastern Travel E@sy and the now‑dead Great Eastern TravelSmart—and replaced them with a shiny new lineup.

Enter the Great Eastern TravelSmart Premier

It’s practically the three‑tier sibling trio you’re probably used to seeing:

• Basic
• Classic
• Elite

Below is the “soup” of what each tier brings in terms of premiums, medical coverage, and all the little perks you’re going to need when a sudden illness hits or a flight gets delayed.

Premiums & Perks Snapshot

• Coverage for Asia (Weekly)

  • Basic – $26
  • Classic – $65
  • Elite – $75

• Coverage Worldwide (Weekly)

  • None on Basic
  • Classic – $99
  • Elite – $118

• Medical Coverage (Overseas)

  • Basic – $100,000
  • Classic – $300,000
  • Elite – $500,000

• Emergency Medical Evacuation

  • Basic – $100,000
  • Classic – $1,000,000
  • Elite – $1,000,000

• Personal Accident (Death & TPD)

  • Basic – $100,000
  • Classic – $250,000
  • Elite – $500,000

• Travel Delay (Overseas)

  • Basic – $50 per 6 hrs (cap $1,000)
  • Classic – $100 per 6 hrs (cap $1,200)
  • Elite – $100 per 6 hrs (cap $1,200)

• Trip Cancellation & Disruption

  • Basic – $2,000
  • Classic – $10,000
  • Elite – $15,000

• Overseas Baggage Delay

  • Basic – $200 per 6 hrs
  • Classic – $1,000
  • Elite – $12,000

• Baggage Loss

  • Basic – $2,500
  • Classic – $5,000
  • Elite – $5,000

Note that these numbers are all based on a single‑trip seven‑day stay in South Korea (Asia) and Switzerland (Worldwide) during the September school holidays of 2022. If you’re traveling elsewhere, you’ll want to check your local rates.

Why the “Transparent” Problem Persists

Great Eastern is a bit shy about throwing everything into the open. You won’t find a tidy list of countries with their exact premiums—think of a ice‑cream shop that only tells you how many flavors it has if you ask about the price. Instead, you’re expected to type in the destination on their website and read off a custom quote. That can feel like an extra step when you’re planning a trip on the fly.

Our Pick of the “Bang Good” Destinations for Singaporeans

We’ve wrangled a quick list of estimated one‑trip premiums for the top spots Singaporeans love. The numbers are for 3‑7‑day trips:

• Malaysia: $19 Basic, $47 Classic, $56 Elite
• Bintan: $19 Basic, $47 Classic, $56 Elite
• Indonesia: $47 Classic, $56 Elite
• Thailand: $47 Classic, $56 Elite
• Vietnam: $47 Classic, $56 Elite
• Cambodia: $47 Classic, $56 Elite
• Hong Kong: $47 Classic, $56 Elite
• South Korea: $65 Classic, $75 Elite
• Japan: $65 Classic, $75 Elite
• India: $65 Classic, $75 Elite
• Australia: $65 Classic, $75 Elite
• Bhutan: $99 Classic, $118 Elite
• Maldives: $99 Classic, $118 Elite
• Germany: $99 Classic, $118 Elite
• London/UK: $99 Classic, $118 Elite
• Paris/France: $99 Classic, $118 Elite
• USA: $99 Classic, $118 Elite

Remember that these figures are guides only. If you’re jetting off to a place beyond this list, reach out to Great Eastern’s online quoting tool. And hey—if you’re aiming to travel in 2025, time will be the ultimate factor in whether these premiums stay handy or vanish into thin air.

So set your sights on your next holiday, grab the right coverage—whether it’s Basic for the budget‑conscious adventurer, Classic for the safety‑first family, or Elite for the luxury seeker—and keep it simple. After all, travel shouldn’t feel like a complicated maze of fine print; it should be pure, carefree fun—plus a little peace of mind.

2. Great Eastern Travel Insurance’s Covid-19 Coverage

Great Eastern TravelSmart Premier: Is Your Covid‑19 Safety Net Strong Enough?

Ever feel like your travel insurance is a bit of a black hole when it comes to Covid‑19? That’s exactly the vibe that hits when you dig into Great Eastern’s TravelSmart Premier plans. Let’s break it down – with a pinch of humor, a dash of heart, and some straight‑forward facts that will help you decide if you’re doing yourself a favour by skipping the “Basic” option.

Three Plans, Two Paths to Covid‑19 Coverage

• Basic – Plain and simple. No Covid‑19 coverage. Not for the adventurous.
• Classic – The medium ground. Includes Covid‑19 coverage.
• Elite – The premium tier. Also includes Covid‑19 coverage, but with better numbers.

The only plans that give you a Copo‑coverage cushion are Classic and Elite. If you’re still lingering on “Basic”, it’s a sobering reminder: you’re missing the Covid‑19 safety net.

How Covid‑19 Coverage Looks for Classic vs. Elite

What the Numbers Mean in Real Life

• Medical Expense Coverage: If the doctors spot a Covid‑19 case that’s more like a VIP emergency and they point you to a fancy private hospital, a $50,000 ceiling on Classic might leave you out of pocket. $150,000 on Elite is a bit more reassuring, but it still feels tight for the 2025 price tags.
• Emergency Evacuation: Picture yourself unfit to board a plane. If the airline’s “no-flight” policy forces you to be airlifted back to Singapore, the bill can sky‑rocket to $200k–$300k. The Classic’s $50,000 band is simply a small safety net – hardly enough.

The Good, Bad & Ugly Extra Tips

1. Pre‑Trip Coverage: Got a positive test 30 days before you leave? Great Eastern will hop in and cover your flight, hotel and any other bookings. A nice touch – all good.
2. During Trip Coverage: If you test positive while abroad, you’re covered for 90 days. Plus, the policy auto‑extends for an extra 30 days for free – a lifesaver for those surprise long stays.
3. Post‑Trip Coverage: Caught Covid after you land in Singapore? Nope, not covered. That means you’re on your own if you get sick back home.

Comparing to the Big Dogs: Sompo vs Great Eastern

Now, Sompo’s Covid‑19 policy gives you a snazzy $100k–$200k for medical expenses and up to $4k for postponements. That’s a big leap from Great Eastern’s $50k–$150k and $1k–$2k respectively.

Think of it like this: if you’re planning to hit the beach, Sompo is your ultra‑comfortable walk‑apart – the extra coverage is like having a beachside personal assistant. Great Eastern’s policy, on the other hand, is more like hiring a friendly tour guide who folds in unexpected expenses when asked.

The Extra Spotlight: Come‑Back Is Your Own Responsibility

Both Great Eastern and Sompo don’t cover post‑trip Covid infections – that’s the cruel truth. If it’s the same flip of a coin that’s not in your favour, don’t let it become a road‑block to your next adventure.

Bottom Line… Grab the Right Plan

If your travel plans seem solid, you might think “A simple plan’s enough.” But the insurance side is its own creature. Better to pick Classic or Elite, or even consider locking in a Sompo plan for a smoother ride when Covid waves hit.

Because, honestly, blocking a sudden, pricey medical claim is a lot easier than juggling bulky paperwork later. Let the insurance protect your wallet, not just your itinerary. Good travel, safe travels, and keep your coverage sharp!

3. Great Eastern Travel Insurance: Disadvantages

Got a Great Eastern Travel Insurance? Check These Important Caveats!

Before you fling that coverage card at the last‑minute desk, let’s run through the sneaky rules you’ll want to keep in the back of your mind.

1⃣ Don’t Be a “Last Minute Loser” at the Gate

Buying coverage right in the boarding area seems convenient, but it’s a stealthy trap. You’ll still face the same waiting period that you’d have if you bought it a week earlier.

2⃣ Time Limits for Short Trips

• Trips over 90 days are out of the loop – your plan only covers short‑haul adventures.

3⃣ Covid‑19 Coverage: Only in the Premium Plans

If you’re hot on Classic or Elite, you’ll get a boost of Covid protection. The basic plan will leave you exposed to the pandemic curve.

4⃣ Air Miles or Hotel Points? Those Won’t Be Covered

• If you swapped miles for a ticket, the insurer won’t pick up the cost. Same goes for checked‑in reward points.

5⃣ Early Purchase = Early Protection

Give yourself a seven‑day head start before the policy dips into action. Think of it as a brief buffer period.

6⃣ Class Matters

• First or Business class tickets will only receive coverage up to the economy class price bracket.

7⃣ Flight Delays: Let the Airline or Govt. Call the Shots

If delays come from the airline or because of government Covid restrictions, you’ll not be able to claim those penalties.

8⃣ No Post‑Trip Covid Protection

Once you land, you’re out of the coverage safety net for Covid. So, be ready to cough up a few bucks if you’re sicker after return.

9⃣ Pre‑Existing Conditions Are a No‑Go

If you’ve already dodged the world (pre‑existing condition), that snag won’t get covered.

Proving Your Struggles: Call to Save Your Trip

Travel insurance is picky. You’ll need a record that you attempted to call your hotel or airline to swap or get a refund, only to be denied. This documentation proves you’re in good faith and can pick up those extra costs.

Keep these checks in your travel checklist and you’ll move from a policy bump to a smooth journey. Happy travels!

4. Travel Insurance For Extreme Sports & Outdoor Activities

Why Great Eastern Travel Insurance Is Your Adventure Buddy

When you’re planning a thrill‑seeker trip, you want coverage that won’t leave you high and dry. Great Eastern’s Classic and Elite plans have you covered for a rainbow of extreme sports—provided you’re doing them with licensed pros and not for cash‑busting competitions.

Take the Adventure: Covered Activities

• Bungee Jumping – Yes, you can double‑up on the drop.
• Canoeing / White Water Rafting – Covered, but only with a guide and if it’s below Grade 4.
• Dog Sledding – Yup, pull those pups and you’re protected.
• Hang Gliding – Sky’s the limit, with coverage in place.
• Helicopter / Airplane Rides – Sightseeing trips farefully insured.
• Hot Air Balloon Rides – Soar safely; we’ve got you.
• Jet Skiing – Ride the waves, enjoy the protections.
• Mountaineering / Trekking – Covered up to 4,000 m; beyond that, you’ll need to re‑think.
• Paragliding – Keep it airborne and insured.
• Parasailing – Soar above and stay protected.
• Skiing / Snowboarding – Only at ski resorts; the slopes are covered.
• Skydiving – Jump with a safety net (literally).
• Underwater Diving / Activities – Up to 30 m, with PADI certification, buddy or instructor.
• Zip‑Lining / Zip‑Riding – Swing through the trees with the peace of mind.

All these thrills are considered leisure or recreational activities—so if you’re doing them for fun, let the insurance be part of that adventure budget. If you’re a pro setting records, you’ll need a different plan.

Bottom Line

With Great Eastern’s coverage, you can focus on chasing the next big adrenaline rush without worrying about the medical bill. Grab your Classic or Elite plan, keep the license and guide in the ticket, and just enjoy the ride—literally and figuratively.

5. Travel Insurance Claim Great Eastern

Travel Insurance Claims Made Easy (or Not So Easy)

Before You Go: Pack Your Paperwork

Think of it like a suitcase full of receipts—except this one keeps your claims alive. Print out everything: flight tickets, tour receipts, hotel or Airbnb confirmations, and if you’re clutching a high‑value laptop, fancy camera, or those ultra‑sized Rimowa suitcases, toss those receipts into the same file. Put it on your dining table, so you won’t lose it while you’re elbows‑deep in laundry.

When the Unexpected Happens

• Illness, Accident, or COVID‑19: Dial Great Eastern’s 24‑hour emergency at +65 6339 2155. Document every bruise, visit to the ER, and your hospital stay. Demand the full paperwork: diagnoses, prescriptions, hospital bills—nothing less. The Claims Department needs hard proof that your ankle snapped on Jeju Island, not somewhere else.
• Lost Item or Theft: Report to the local police within 24 hours and secure a printed copy of the report.
• Lost or Stolen in Transport, Hotel, or Amusement Parks: File a claim with your airline, tour bus company, hotel, or DisneyLand. Print and keep each report.

Original Receipts Are Gold

After you return, rummage through every wallet, backpack, and fridge drawer for the original receipts of your lost or stolen gear. They’re your secret weapons.

Ready to File?

• Download the Claim Form: For Great Eastern, grab the form from their website, print it, fill it out, and send it by mail. No electronic uploads for now—just good old paper.
• Submit the Paper Trail: Combine your flight tickets, hotel confirmations, and that claim form. Mail them to the Great Eastern General Insurance office. After you’ve plugged the envelope into the mail slot, call the general line at 1800‑248‑2888 to tickle the system for an update.

Mailing Address

General Insurance Claims Department
Great Eastern General Insurance Limited
1 Pickering Street,

01‑01 Great Eastern Centre,

Singapore 048659

6. Great Eastern Travel Insurance Promo

Get 10% Off Your Great Eastern Travel Insurance—Not a Promo, But a Classic Trick

Right now, Great Eastern isn’t running a flashy travel‑insurance promotion, but they’ve got a sneaky little deal that’s still worth a look.

What You’ll Need

• Download the Great Eastern Rewards mobile app and sign in.
• After logging in, you’ll receive a $100 credit placed straight into your wallet.

How That Credit Works

Your $100 credit can slash up to 10 % of your travel‑insurance premium—but remember, the discount is capped at 10 %, no matter how many credits you stash.

Example Breakdown

• If your GE TravelSmart Premier policy costs $65, the maximum discount you’ll get is $6.50 (10 % of $65).
• Below that threshold, you’ll still enjoy the discount, just scaled down.

So while Great Eastern isn’t offering a large promo right now, this credit trick does give you a neat, small savings. It’s a subtle move—just a faith‑based way to make travelers smile.

7. Great Eastern Travel Insurance Review

Should You Grab Great Eastern Travel Insurance?

Picture yourself on a white‑snow ski slope in Niseko, slicing through a line‑upscreen of “The trail is way too dangerous for me.” You’re already standing on the edge of adventure: jump, jump, jump. Whether you’re bungee‑jumping in Seminyak, Bali, or splashing past a coral reef in the Philippines, Great Eastern’s travel insurance claims to be the safety net for thrill‑seekers like you. But hold your breath—let’s see if it actually holds up.

Basic Coverage: Is It Enough?

• Medical & Evacuation: Both the Travel Smart Classic and the Elite plans cover overseas hospital bills and get you home if you “end up in a hospital far, far away.” All‐in‑all, this is solid.
• Baggage & Loss: Your gear’s missing or delayed gets a backup. All good.

Sounds fine, right? The only catch is the limits. The coverage caps are pretty modest—so if you’re planning an all‑night stay in a foreign city or a trip that spirals into an expensive medical emergency, you might be short on the dollars you actually need.

COVID‑19 Coverage: Bare Minimum, No Extra Buffers

Great Eastern superheroes only swoop in for the minimum. For a Classic plan you get $50,000 for overseas hospital bills if COVID takes you. The Elite version ups it to $150,000. That’s the medical part. Then, there’s a quirky daily allowance: $50 for the Classic or $100 for the Elite during quarantine or hospital days. But the kicker? It stops after 14 days.

So if a remote island end up becoming a pandemic playground, you’ll be happy that you have the official coverage—just don’t expect it to keep you afloat for a month and a half.

Trip Flexibility: Low Limits, Big Disappointments

Missing your flight, changing your plans, or having to cancel altogether—yes, Great Eastern covers it. But the numbers are basically the size of a mid‑range bank account slip:

• Trip cancellation: $1,000
• Postponement: $3,000
• Disruption: $5,000

When airfares are ~3× the price of your last coffee, those limits probably won’t do the trick.

The Biggest Deal‑Breaker: A Dated Claims Process

Great Eastern apparently stuck to their old “process” like a fossil. It feels like calling a 1995 phone line to claim a 2024 trip. The website still feels like a 90’s passive‑voice formulation. You’ll end up on a slow “processing” loop, with impossible form fields, a concierge phone that rings 2, 3, and 4 times before giving up. It’s a real leftover from an era where email was “graduated from the whole over‑the‑tongue box.” Classic 90’s time travel.

Bottom Line: A Mixed Bag for the Adventurous

So, what’s the verdict? If you’re armed with the courage to brave the thrills of skiing, bungee‑jumping, or diving, a Classic or Elite plan does give you basic medical coverage, a bag‑together plan, and a “COVID” cushion with an elder daily allowance. But you’ll still need to double‑check the coverage limits for your style. Also, be ready to tackle their 1995‑style claims process.

Don’t let the risk of a costly, uncooperative insurer spoil your adventure. Consider these points and choose the insurance that’s going to protect your planned excitement without letting your bank balance go on a trip of its own. Adventure wisely, traveler!