✈️ Why Travel Insurance Matters
Whether you're heading interstate, overseas, or just to another city, travel involves time, money—and risk. From flight delays to lost luggage or medical emergencies, unexpected events can turn a dream trip into a costly headache.
That’s where travel insurance steps in. It can protect you from financial losses before, during, and even after your trip—covering cancellations, medical expenses, theft, and more.
✅ Make Travel Insurance a Must-Have
No matter if you’re a seasoned traveller or planning your first big adventure, travel insurance should be high on your checklist. In fact, for overseas trips, the Australian Government considers it as essential as your passport.
Pro tip: Buy your policy as soon as you book your trip. That way, you’re protected even before you leave—such as if illness or a natural disaster forces you to cancel.
Explore policies at findaninsurer.com.au.
📍 Types of Travel Insurance
🏠 Domestic Travel Insurance
Travelling within Australia? Many people skip insurance, but costs can still stack up if something goes wrong.
Common cover includes:
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Trip cancellations or delays
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Lost or damaged baggage
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Personal liability
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Rental car insurance excess
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Emergency accommodation
Some activities (like adventure sports) may not be covered unless you add them to your policy.
🌍 International Travel Insurance
Medical emergencies abroad can be very expensive—and you’re personally responsible for the costs.
International cover often includes:
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Emergency medical & dental care
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Lost/stolen luggage
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Trip cancellations or delays
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Liability cover
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Accidental death or disability
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24/7 emergency assistance
💡 Did you know?
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A hospital stay in Southeast Asia can exceed $800 a day
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Returning a loved one’s remains from Europe can cost over $10,000
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Medical evacuation from the US may cost up to $300,000
The Australian Government does not pay your bills. You’re on your own without insurance.
Get official advice at Smartraveller.
💳 Credit Card Travel Insurance: Is It Enough?
Some credit cards include travel insurance. Sounds great—but don’t assume you’re fully covered.
Always check:
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Do you need to activate the policy?
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What is and isn’t covered?
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Are the benefit limits enough for where you’re going?
Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) closely to avoid surprises.
🔍 How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance
Travel insurance isn’t “one size fits all.” Policies vary in what they cover—and what they don’t. Here’s what to look for:
✅ What to Ask Before You Buy:
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What’s covered (medical, cancellation, theft)?
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What’s excluded? (Check your activities!)
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What are the claim limits?
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How much is the excess?
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How do I contact my insurer overseas?
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What proof do I need to make a claim?
Important: Buy a policy that covers the entire duration of your trip. Planning to extend? Ask your insurer how that affects coverage.
🚫 Common Exclusions & Limits
Every policy has exclusions. Here are some to watch out for:
⚠️ Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
Some conditions are excluded unless declared upfront. Failing to disclose could void your claim.
🧗♂️ Adventure Sports
Activities like skiing, diving, or riding a motorbike may not be covered unless you add them. Check your policy!
🚫 Risky Behaviour
No cover if:
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You were under the influence of drugs/alcohol
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You left your bag unattended
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The loss involved reckless or illegal behaviour
🌍 Disease & Unrest
No cover for travel to areas with government travel warnings or disease outbreaks.
🧳 Personal Belongings
Policies often limit payouts on valuables. If you’re travelling with expensive items, consider extra cover.
🎂 Age Restrictions
Some policies have age limits, but specialised coverage is available for seniors and retirees.
💰 How Travel Insurance Premiums Are Calculated
Your premium depends on several factors, including:
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Your destination
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Trip duration
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Age of travellers
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Pre-existing medical conditions
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Type of cover (basic vs. comprehensive)
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Extras (like ski or cruise cover)
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Solo, couple, or family policy
🧳 Real Story: Why It Matters
Kate’s Story
Sydney-based travel agent Kate fell seriously ill while visiting Brazil. Thanks to her travel insurance, her medical bills and emergency assistance were fully covered. Without it, the costs could have been overwhelming.
🧭 Final Travel Tips
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Buy early—get covered before your trip begins
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Know what’s excluded in your policy
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Take a copy of your policy and PDS with you
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Leave valuables at home or insure them properly
