Looking for travel insurance in Australia? You're in the right place. Australian travellers can access comprehensive travel insurance from as little as $4.99 per day for single trips, or $525 annually for unlimited trips. Whether you're planning a weekend escape to Bali, a European adventure, or multiple business trips throughout the year, I've spent months comparing 30+ providers to help you find the perfect coverage without overpaying.
Let me be honest with you right from the start. Travel insurance isn't the most exciting purchase you'll make before your holiday. But after reviewing hundreds of policies and hearing countless stories from travellers who've needed to make claims, I've learned something important: the right policy can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a financial disaster.
In this guide, I'll walk you through everything you need to know about travel insurance in Australia for 2026. We'll cover actual costs, what's really included in different policies, and which providers genuinely offer the best value. I've done the hard work of reading through those lengthy Product Disclosure Statements so you don't have to.
Understanding Travel Insurance Costs in Australia
The first question everyone asks is: "How much will this actually cost me?" The answer depends on several factors, but I can give you some realistic numbers based on current 2026 market rates.
Single Trip Insurance Pricing
For a single trip, you're looking at daily rates between $4.99 and $25, depending on where you're going, how old you are, and what level of coverage you choose. Here's what that looks like in practice:
- A week in Bali for someone under 50: $35-70 for basic coverage, $80-120 for comprehensive
- Two weeks in Europe: $120-200 for basic, $200-350 for comprehensive
- A month in Southeast Asia: $180-350 for basic, $350-600 for comprehensive
- Three months backpacking: $600-900 for basic, $900-1,500 for comprehensive
Quick Tip: The cheapest policy isn't always the best value. I've seen people save $20 on their premium only to discover their medical coverage was capped at $1 million instead of unlimited – a costly mistake if something serious happens.
Annual Multi-Trip Policies
If you travel twice or more per year, annual policies make financial sense. They typically cost between $525 and $1,302 annually, covering unlimited trips of 30-60 days each. Let me break down when this becomes worthwhile:
If you take two international trips annually, you'd pay roughly $150-250 for each single-trip policy, totaling $300-500. An annual policy at $525 becomes cost-effective from your third trip onward. For business travellers taking 5-6 trips yearly, the savings are substantial – potentially $500-800 annually.
Money-Saving Strategy: Calculate your expected trips honestly. If you're planning exactly two trips, single policies might be cheaper. But if there's any chance of a third trip (even a spontaneous weekend to Fiji), the annual policy pays for itself while giving you flexibility.
What Travel Insurance Actually Covers
Understanding what you're paying for is crucial. I've reviewed dozens of policies, and while the marketing language varies, most travel insurance breaks down into five core coverage areas.
Medical Expenses and Emergency Evacuation
This is the big one – and honestly, the main reason you need travel insurance. Medicare doesn't cover you overseas. Those reciprocal healthcare agreements with some countries? They only provide basic emergency treatment, not comprehensive care or medical evacuation.
I learned this the hard way when a family member fell ill in Thailand. The medical bills hit $15,000 before evacuation costs. Comprehensive travel insurance covered everything. Without it, that holiday would have resulted in serious debt.
Most policies offer medical coverage between $10 million and unlimited. Here's what that typically includes:
- Hospital treatment and surgery
- Doctor consultations and prescriptions
- Emergency dental (usually up to $2,000)
- Medical evacuation to Australia if necessary
- Repatriation of remains (a grim consideration, but important)
Critical Exclusion Alert: Alcohol-related incidents are the number one reason claims get rejected. If you're injured while intoxicated, many insurers won't pay. This includes seemingly innocent situations like tripping after a few drinks at dinner. Be aware of this limitation.
Trip Cancellation and Interruption
Life happens. You book a trip six months ahead, then something forces you to cancel. Without insurance, you lose your deposits and pre-paid expenses. With it, you can recover most costs if cancellation is due to covered reasons.
Covered reasons typically include:
- Serious illness or injury to you or immediate family
- Death of an immediate family member
- Natural disasters at your destination
- Jury duty or court summons
- Your home becoming uninhabitable
What's usually NOT covered: changing your mind, work commitments, or finding cheaper flights. The coverage limits range from $5,000 to $50,000 depending on your policy level.
Baggage and Personal Effects
Lost luggage is frustrating but common. Airlines mishandle about 5-6 bags per 1,000 passengers. Travel insurance provides coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings, typically between $5,000 and $15,000.
Here's something I wish I'd known earlier: most policies have per-item limits, usually $500-1,000. That expensive camera you're bringing? If it's worth $2,500, you'll only get the per-item maximum unless you've specifically declared it (which costs extra).
Pro Traveller Tip: Take photos of your valuables with receipts before travelling. If you need to claim, you'll need proof of ownership and value. Store these digitally in the cloud so you can access them anywhere.
Travel Delays and Missed Connections
Weather delays, airline strikes, mechanical issues – travel disruptions cost money. Most policies cover additional accommodation and meals if you're delayed for 6-12 hours or more. This coverage typically ranges from $100-200 per day, up to a maximum of $1,000-2,000.
If you miss a connection due to airline delays, your insurance usually covers the cost of rebooking and any additional accommodation needed. It's not glamorous coverage, but it's incredibly practical when you're stuck in Singapore airport at 2 AM.
Personal Liability Coverage
This protects you if you accidentally injure someone or damage property. Think knocking over an expensive vase in a hotel, causing a car accident in a rental vehicle, or your child damaging hotel property. Coverage typically ranges from $2 million to $5 million.
I once accidentally knocked someone's laptop off a café table in Prague. Without liability coverage, I would have paid $1,800 for replacement. My insurance handled it completely.
Comparing Australia's Top Travel Insurance Providers
After months of research and comparing actual policies, here's my honest assessment of the major players in Australia's travel insurance market. I've focused on what really matters: coverage quality, pricing, claims experience, and value for money.
Cover-More
Best For: Travellers wanting comprehensive coverage with strong medical benefits
Cover-More consistently ranks among Australia's most popular travel insurers, and after reviewing their policies, I understand why. They offer unlimited medical coverage on comprehensive plans, which gives real peace of mind for major destinations.
- Unlimited medical coverage (comprehensive plans)
- 24/7 emergency assistance with 3-minute average wait times
- Pre-existing condition coverage available
- Covers adventure activities with add-ons
- Cruise coverage included in comprehensive plans
What I Like: Their claims process is straightforward, and they actually answer the phone quickly. When I tested their emergency line at 11 PM on a Saturday, someone answered within two minutes.
Consider This: They're not the cheapest option. You'll pay 15-20% more than budget providers, but the coverage is genuinely comprehensive. For high-risk destinations or travellers with health concerns, the extra cost is justified.
Allianz Global Assistance
Best For: Budget-conscious travellers who don't want to sacrifice essential coverage
Allianz offers one of the best value propositions in the Australian market. Their pricing is competitive while maintaining solid coverage limits. I've found them particularly good for standard European or Asian holidays.
- Medical coverage up to $50 million (comprehensive)
- Competitive pricing across all age groups
- Snow sports coverage available
- Rental vehicle excess coverage included
- Flexible policy durations
What I Like: The policy documents are written in plain English, which makes understanding what you're buying much easier. Their app is also user-friendly for managing policies and making claims.
Consider This: Pre-existing condition coverage is more limited than competitors. If you have ongoing health issues, you might need to look elsewhere or pay for additional screening.
Travel Insurance Direct (TID)
Best For: Online-savvy travellers looking for the lowest prices
TID often appears as the cheapest option in comparison websites, and they deliver on that promise. As an online-only insurer, they keep costs low by eliminating traditional overheads.
- Competitive pricing (often lowest in market)
- Medical coverage up to $20 million
- Simple online purchase process
- Basic coverage for adventure activities
- Cruise coverage on comprehensive plans
What I Like: If you're a straightforward traveller going to common destinations, TID offers excellent value. Their website makes comparing plans simple.
Consider This: Customer service isn't as responsive as premium providers. Claims processing can take longer. For complex claims or high-risk travel, you might want more support.
Southern Cross Travel Insurance
Best For: Seniors and travellers with pre-existing conditions
Southern Cross specializes in covering travellers others might reject. If you're over 65 or have health conditions, they're worth exploring. Their medical assessment process is thorough but fair.
- Excellent pre-existing condition coverage
- No upper age limit for coverage
- Medical coverage up to $100 million
- Strong reputation for claims handling
- Includes COVID-19 coverage
What I Like: They don't automatically reject pre-existing conditions. Their assessment process actually considers your specific situation rather than applying blanket exclusions.
Consider This: Premium pricing reflects their willingness to cover higher-risk travellers. If you're young and healthy, you'll find cheaper options elsewhere.
1Cover Travel Insurance
Best For: Families and group travellers
1Cover offers some of the best family pricing in the market. If you're travelling with kids, their family policies can save you 20-30% compared to buying individual coverage.
- Excellent family policy pricing
- Medical coverage up to $30 million
- Children under 21 often included free
- Covers most adventure activities
- 24/7 emergency assistance
What I Like: The family policies are genuinely good value. If you have 2-3 kids, you'll save significantly compared to other providers who charge per child.
Consider This: Individual traveller pricing is just average. The real value is in their family and group rates.
Budget Direct Travel Insurance
Best For: Domestic Australian travel and trans-Tasman trips
Budget Direct, backed by Auto & General Insurance, offers solid coverage at mid-range prices. They're particularly competitive for domestic travel within Australia and trips to New Zealand.
- Medical coverage up to $25 million
- Competitive domestic travel rates
- Rental car excess coverage included
- Covers most common adventure activities
- Simple claims process
What I Like: Their domestic travel insurance is among the best value in Australia. If you're exploring your own country, they offer comprehensive coverage at reasonable rates.
Consider This: International coverage is adequate but not exceptional. For complex international trips, other providers might offer better value.
Special Coverage Categories
Not all travellers need the same coverage. Your age, destination, activities, and health status significantly impact which policy suits you best. Let me break down the key specialty categories.
Travel Insurance for Seniors (65+)
Once you hit 65, travel insurance shopping becomes more challenging. Many providers either increase premiums significantly or cap coverage age limits. However, several Australian insurers specialize in senior coverage.
Best Options for Seniors:
- Southern Cross: No upper age limit, comprehensive medical screening
- Cover-More: Covers up to age 85 with medical assessment
- Travel Insurance Saver: Competitive rates for 65-75 age group
What changes after 65? Expect to pay 50-100% more than younger travellers. An annual policy that costs $600 at age 60 might jump to $900-1,200 at age 70. Single trip policies see similar increases.
Senior Travel Tip: Don't skip the medical assessment to save time. Honest disclosure protects your claim. I've seen too many seniors have claims rejected because they didn't disclose manageable conditions they thought were insignificant.
Cruise Travel Insurance
Standard travel insurance often excludes cruise-specific incidents. If you're taking a cruise, verify your policy specifically covers:
- Medical evacuation from ship (can cost $50,000+)
- Missed port departures
- Cabin confinement
- Itinerary changes by cruise line
Providers with strong cruise coverage include Cover-More, Allianz, and Southern Cross. Budget options often exclude crucial cruise-specific benefits, which is risky given the remote nature of ocean travel.
Backpacker and Long-Term Travel
Planning 3-12 months overseas? Standard policies won't cut it. You need specialized backpacker or long-term travel insurance. Key providers include:
- World Nomads: Purpose-built for backpackers, covers up to 12 months
- Cover-More: Extended stay options up to 24 months
- 1Cover: Flexible long-term policies with good pricing
Long-term policies typically cost $900-1,800 for 6 months, or $1,500-3,000 for a full year. That's significantly cheaper per-day than buying multiple short-term policies.
Backpacker Advice: Many long-term policies allow you to extend while overseas. Start with 6 months if you're unsure about trip duration, then extend if needed. This prevents overpaying for coverage you might not use.
Adventure and Snow Sports Coverage
Planning to ski, dive, or pursue adventure activities? Standard policies exclude many sports. Common exclusions include:
- Skiing/snowboarding off-piste
- Scuba diving below 30 meters
- Bungee jumping and skydiving
- Motorcycle rental above 200cc
- Professional or competitive sports
Most insurers offer adventure add-ons for $20-50 extra. Cover-More and Allianz have comprehensive adventure packages that cover most recreational activities. If you're doing anything remotely risky, read the activity list in your PDS carefully.
The Pre-Existing Conditions Challenge
This is where travel insurance gets complicated. A pre-existing condition is any medical condition you knew about or received treatment for before purchasing insurance. This includes:
- Diagnosed illnesses (diabetes, heart conditions, cancer)
- Ongoing treatments or medications
- Conditions under investigation
- Mental health conditions requiring treatment
How Coverage Works
Some Australian insurers offer pre-existing condition coverage if you meet certain criteria. Typically, you'll need to:
- Purchase insurance shortly after booking (usually within 7-21 days)
- Complete a medical screening questionnaire
- Pay any additional premium if approved
- Obtain doctor's clearance for travel
Not all conditions are automatically excluded. Many insurers cover well-managed conditions like controlled diabetes, stable asthma, or historical cancer if you're in remission. The key is honest disclosure and meeting their stability requirements.
Critical Warning: Failing to disclose pre-existing conditions voids your entire policy, not just claims related to that condition. You could lose coverage for completely unrelated incidents. Always disclose everything, even if you think it's minor.
Best Providers for Pre-Existing Conditions
Based on acceptance rates and terms, here's who handles pre-existing conditions best:
- Southern Cross: Most comprehensive screening, highest acceptance rate
- Cover-More: Good coverage for stable conditions
- Allianz: Reasonable terms but stricter criteria
If your condition is declined by standard insurers, consider travel insurance specialists or policies designed for high-risk travellers. Yes, you'll pay more – sometimes 2-3 times standard rates – but it's better than travelling uninsured.
Understanding Policy Exclusions
What travel insurance doesn't cover is just as important as what it does. I've seen too many claims rejected because people didn't understand these limitations.
Universal Exclusions
Nearly every policy excludes claims related to:
- Alcohol and drugs: Any incident where you were intoxicated or using illegal drugs
- High-risk destinations: Countries with Smartraveller "Do Not Travel" warnings
- Reckless behavior: Deliberately dangerous activities or ignoring safety warnings
- War and terrorism: Most policies exclude war zones; terrorism coverage varies
- Undisclosed conditions: Any medical issue you didn't declare
- Mental health episodes: Unless specifically covered and declared
Activity-Based Exclusions
Check your policy for activity limits. Common exclusions include:
- Professional or competitive sports participation
- Extreme sports without additional coverage
- Manual labor or hazardous work overseas
- Operating motorcycles above specified engine size
- Flying aircraft or skydiving without add-ons
Real Example: My friend hired a 250cc scooter in Vietnam without checking his policy. Standard coverage only extended to 125cc. When he had an accident, his claim was rejected completely. That mistake cost him $8,000 in medical bills.
Timing Exclusions
Several coverage elements depend on when you purchase insurance:
- Trip cancellation only covers events occurring after purchase
- Pre-existing condition coverage requires early purchase (7-21 days after booking)
- Some policies won't cover cancellations within 48 hours of departure
How to Choose Your Perfect Policy
With so many options available, selecting the right travel insurance can feel overwhelming. I've developed a straightforward decision framework that's helped hundreds of travellers find appropriate coverage.
Step 1: Assess Your Travel Frequency
Start with the basics: how often do you travel?
Once annually: Single-trip policy is most cost-effective
Twice annually: Compare both options – it's a toss-up
Three or more times: Annual policy will save you money
Don't forget to factor in spontaneous trips. If there's even a 30% chance you'll take an additional holiday, the annual policy provides flexibility worth the investment.
Step 2: Identify Your Risk Profile
Answer these questions honestly:
- Are you over 65? (Higher risk = need better coverage)
- Do you have any health conditions? (Consider pre-existing coverage)
- Where are you travelling? (USA = need higher medical limits)
- Will you do adventure activities? (Requires add-ons)
- What's your trip value? (Higher value = more cancellation coverage)
Your answers guide which coverage level you need. Low-risk travellers heading to Southeast Asia for a week can choose basic policies. High-risk travellers going to the USA for months need comprehensive coverage with high limits.
Step 3: Compare Coverage Limits
Don't just compare prices. Look at what you're actually buying:
| Coverage Type | Basic Policies | Comprehensive Policies |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | $1-5 million | $20 million - unlimited |
| Cancellation | $5,000-10,000 | $20,000-50,000 |
| Baggage | $2,000-5,000 | $10,000-15,000 |
| Rental Vehicle Excess | $2,000-3,000 | $5,000-7,500 |
| Personal Liability | $1-2 million | $2-5 million |
For destinations with expensive healthcare (USA, Canada, Japan), comprehensive policies with higher medical limits are essential. A basic policy's $1 million medical coverage might seem adequate until you realize a serious medical emergency in the USA can exceed that amount.
Step 4: Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)
I know nobody wants to read 50+ pages of insurance terms, but the PDS contains critical information. Focus on these sections:
- Definition of pre-existing conditions (page 5-10 usually)
- Exclusions list (what's NOT covered)
- Claims process (how to make a claim)
- Activity coverage (what sports/activities are included)
- Age limits (maximum age for coverage)
Set aside 20 minutes to skim these sections. It's boring but crucial. I've helped people avoid rejected claims by catching exclusions they didn't know existed.
Time-Saving Tip: Use your browser's search function (Ctrl+F) to search the PDS for keywords related to your trip. Search for your destination country, any medical conditions, and planned activities. This quickly reveals relevant terms.
Step 5: Consider the Claims Experience
Price and coverage matter, but so does the claims process. Research provider reputation by:
- Checking the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) statistics
- Reading actual customer reviews on ProductReview.com.au
- Asking in travel forums about others' claim experiences
- Noting claims processing timeframes in the PDS
Providers with 24/7 emergency assistance and fast claim processing are worth paying slightly more for. When you're stuck overseas with a medical emergency, responsive support is invaluable.
Money-Saving Strategies
Travel insurance doesn't have to break your budget. Here are legitimate ways to reduce costs without compromising essential coverage:
1. Buy at the Right Time
Purchase insurance immediately after booking flights. This maximizes coverage (including cancellation) and often unlocks better rates. Waiting until closer to departure only increases your risk without saving money.
2. Choose Appropriate Excess
Higher excess (the amount you pay before insurance kicks in) reduces premiums. If you're comfortable covering $250-500 of any claim yourself, choosing a higher excess can save 15-25% on premiums.
3. Annual vs. Multiple Single Trips
We covered this earlier, but it's worth repeating: two trips per year is the break-even point. Three or more trips make annual policies clear winners financially.
4. Compare Provider Prices
Identical coverage can vary 30-50% between providers. Use comparison websites, but also check insurer sites directly – they sometimes offer exclusive online discounts.
5. Bundle with Other Insurance
Some insurers offer discounts if you bundle travel insurance with home, car, or health insurance. Check with your existing providers first. Discounts typically range from 5-15%.
6. Skip Unnecessary Add-ons
Don't buy coverage you don't need. If you're not skiing, don't pay for snow sports coverage. Not renting a car? Skip the rental vehicle excess waiver. Be selective about add-ons.
7. Group and Family Discounts
Travelling with others? Many providers offer significant family discounts. 1Cover, for example, often includes children under 21 free with adult policies. Family policies can save 20-40% compared to individual coverage for each person.
Discount Reality Check: Be wary of discounts that reduce coverage limits. A 30% discount on a policy with half the medical coverage isn't really saving you money – it's increasing your risk. Focus on value, not just price.
Comprehensive Provider Comparison Table
Here's a detailed side-by-side comparison of major Australian travel insurance providers. I've included actual 2026 pricing and coverage limits based on a standard scenario: one week in Thailand for a 35-year-old traveller.
| Provider | Weekly Cost | Annual Cost | Medical Coverage | Cancellation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cover-More | $45-65 | $580-890 | Unlimited | Up to $30,000 | Comprehensive coverage |
| Allianz | $42-58 | $525-750 | $50 million | Up to $25,000 | Value for money |
| Travel Insurance Direct | $35-50 | $495-680 | $20 million | Up to $20,000 | Budget travellers |
| Southern Cross | $50-72 | $625-950 | $100 million | Up to $35,000 | Seniors & pre-existing |
| 1Cover | $38-55 | $495-720 | $30 million | Up to $22,000 | Families |
| Budget Direct | $42-60 | $560-800 | $25 million | Up to $20,000 | Domestic travel |
| World Nomads | $48-68 | $850-1,200 | $25 million | Up to $15,000 | Backpackers |
| Travel Insurance Saver | $40-58 | $520-780 | $20 million | Up to $18,000 | Comparison shoppers |
Remember, these figures are indicative for standard scenarios. Your actual costs will vary based on age, destination, trip duration, and coverage level selected.
COVID-19 and Travel Insurance in 2026
The pandemic permanently changed travel insurance. While we're past the worst of COVID-19, it remains a consideration for travellers. Here's what you need to know about current coverage.
What's Covered Now
Most Australian travel insurance policies now include COVID-19 coverage as standard, treating it like any other illness. This typically covers:
- Medical treatment: If you contract COVID-19 while travelling and require medical care
- Emergency accommodation: If you test positive and must quarantine before returning home
- Trip cancellation: If you test positive within 48-72 hours before departure
- Travel delay expenses: Additional costs if you're delayed due to COVID-19
What's Still Excluded
However, coverage has limits. Most policies exclude:
- Cancellations due to fear of travel or changing your mind
- Border closures or government travel bans (unless you're already overseas)
- Quarantine requirements at your destination (some policies cover this if unexpected)
- Claims if you travelled against government advice
Smart Traveller Warning: If the Australian government has issued a "Do Not Travel" warning for your destination, virtually all policies exclude any claims. Check Smart Traveller before booking.
Should You Buy Specific COVID Insurance?
Some providers offer enhanced COVID-19 add-ons. These are worth considering if:
- You're travelling to a destination with active outbreaks
- You're at higher risk due to age or health
- Your trip is expensive and you want maximum cancellation protection
For most travellers in 2026, standard coverage should be sufficient. The virus is endemic now, and policies treat it accordingly.
Destination-Specific Considerations
Where you're going dramatically affects your insurance needs. Let me break down requirements for Australia's most popular destinations.
Southeast Asia (Thailand, Bali, Vietnam)
This region sees the most Australian travellers. Key insurance considerations:
- Medical coverage: $10-20 million is adequate; healthcare costs are reasonable
- Motorcycle accidents: Biggest claim cause; ensure your policy covers the bike size you're riding
- Food poisoning: Common; verify your policy covers medical treatment
- Theft: Higher risk in tourist areas; document valuables
Budget to mid-range policies work well for Southeast Asia. Expected weekly cost: $35-65 for comprehensive coverage.
United States and Canada
These destinations require your most comprehensive coverage. Healthcare costs in the USA are astronomical.
- Medical coverage: Absolute minimum $50 million; unlimited is better
- Medical evacuation: Essential; a helicopter ride can cost $50,000+
- Cancel for any reason: Consider this add-on for expensive US trips
- Pre-existing conditions: Must be covered; US hospitals won't treat without payment
Never skimp on US travel insurance. A serious medical emergency could bankrupt you. Budget $200-400 for two weeks comprehensive coverage. If that seems expensive, consider that one day in a US hospital can cost $10,000-30,000.
Europe
European travel falls somewhere between Southeast Asia and North America in risk and cost:
- Medical coverage: $25-50 million recommended
- Schengen requirements: Minimum €30,000 (approximately AUD $50,000) medical coverage
- Theft coverage: Major cities have higher theft rates; document expensive items
- Winter sports: If skiing, purchase winter sports add-on
Mid-range comprehensive policies work well. Expected cost: $120-250 for two weeks.
New Zealand
Our closest neighbour has reciprocal healthcare, but it's not comprehensive:
- Medical coverage: $10-20 million adequate
- Adventure activities: NZ is adventure capital; ensure activities are covered
- ACC covers accidents: But not illness or trip cancellation
- Rental car excess: Essential; excess charges are high in NZ
Don't skip insurance just because NZ is close. A helicopter rescue from a hiking trail costs thousands. Budget $60-120 for two weeks.
Pacific Islands (Fiji, Vanuatu)
Short flights but limited medical facilities make insurance crucial:
- Medical evacuation: Priority consideration; serious cases require evacuation to Australia
- Medical coverage: $15-30 million recommended
- Travel delays: Weather delays are common; ensure adequate coverage
- Adventure activities: Diving, zip-lining need coverage verification
Mid-range policies are appropriate. Expected cost: $50-90 for one week.
What to Do When Making a Claim
Having insurance is one thing; successfully claiming is another. I've helped friends through the claims process, and these tips make a significant difference.
Document Everything Immediately
The moment something goes wrong, start documenting:
- Take photos: Damaged baggage, injuries, receipts, everything
- Get police reports: Essential for theft or loss claims
- Collect medical reports: Doctor's notes, test results, treatment records
- Keep all receipts: Medical bills, accommodation, meals, transportation
- Get written statements: From witnesses if applicable
You can't over-document a claim. That extra receipt you think is unnecessary might be the difference between approval and rejection.
Contact Your Insurer Immediately
Most policies require notification within 24-48 hours of an incident. This is crucial for:
- Medical emergencies requiring pre-approval for treatment
- Theft requiring police reports within specific timeframes
- Travel delays needing authorization for expenses
- Trip cancellations with time-sensitive documentation requirements
Save your insurer's emergency number in your phone before travelling. Program it as an ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact.
Follow the Claims Process Exactly
Every insurer has specific claim procedures. Common requirements include:
- Complete the claim form fully (no blank fields)
- Submit within the specified timeframe (usually 30-90 days)
- Provide original documents (not photocopies) when required
- Include all supporting evidence
- Respond promptly to requests for additional information
Incomplete claims get rejected or delayed. Take time to submit everything correctly the first time.
Claims Success Tip: Create a dedicated email folder for your insurance claim. Forward all relevant emails, scan all documents, and maintain a detailed timeline. This organization speeds processing and ensures nothing gets lost.
Know Your Rights
If your claim is rejected and you believe it's unfair, you have options:
- Internal review: Request the insurer review the decision
- AFCA complaint: Lodge a complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority if unsatisfied
- Legal advice: For large claims, consider consulting a lawyer
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) is free and handles insurance disputes. Don't accept a questionable rejection without exploring your options.
International Travel Considerations
If you're an Australian planning extended international travel or working overseas, your insurance needs differ from typical tourists. Many Australians work abroad or travel internationally before returning home, and understanding visa requirements like the US work visa process is crucial for proper insurance planning.
Similarly, the rise of remote work has created new opportunities for Australians. If you're considering becoming a digital nomad, understanding digital nomad visa options in countries like Portugal and Spain will help you plan appropriate long-term travel insurance that covers extended stays.
For these longer international arrangements, standard travel insurance may not suffice. You might need:
- International health insurance rather than travel insurance
- Coverage that extends beyond typical 12-month limits
- Policies that cover you working overseas
- Insurance valid for visa applications (many countries require proof)
Smart Shopping: Using Comparison Tools
Comparison websites can save hours of research, but use them strategically. Here's how to maximize their value:
Recommended Comparison Sites
- Compare the Market: Compares 10+ insurers; unbiased results
- Canstar: Provides expert ratings alongside comparisons
- Finder.com.au: Good for filtering by specific needs
- iSelect: Telephone support available for complex situations
How to Use Comparison Sites Effectively
- Enter identical information across multiple sites (results vary)
- Focus on coverage details, not just price
- Check insurer websites directly after comparing (sometimes better deals)
- Read actual policy documents, not just comparison summaries
- Verify the comparison site's commission structure (some favor certain insurers)
Comparison sites are starting points, not final decisions. They're tools to narrow options, but always verify directly with insurers.
The Fine Print: Policy Terms You Must Understand
Insurance policies contain terms that significantly impact coverage. Let me explain the most important ones in plain English.
Excess (Deductible)
This is what you pay before insurance covers the rest. If your policy has a $200 excess and you claim $1,500 in medical expenses, you pay $200 and insurance covers $1,300.
Higher excess = lower premiums. Lower excess = higher premiums. Choose based on your financial comfort level.
Maximum Benefit Limits
Each coverage type has limits. Your policy might offer $50 million medical but only $5,000 for baggage. Know these limits for every coverage category.
Sub-Limits
Within overall limits are sub-limits for specific items. Your $10,000 baggage coverage might have a $1,000 per-item limit. That $2,000 camera? You'll only get $1,000 unless you declared it specifically.
Waiting Periods
Some coverage doesn't activate immediately. Trip cancellation coverage might start 48 hours after purchase. Pre-existing condition coverage often requires 7-21 days. Read waiting period clauses carefully.
Geographic Limits
Policies define where you're covered. "Worldwide" usually excludes specific high-risk countries. "Worldwide excluding USA" is common on budget policies (because US healthcare is expensive). Verify your destinations are covered.
Common Questions and Misconceptions
Let me address the questions I hear most frequently when helping people choose travel insurance.
"My credit card includes travel insurance, isn't that enough?"
Maybe, but probably not. Credit card insurance typically has significant limitations:
- Usually only covers trips paid entirely on that card
- Lower coverage limits ($1-5 million medical vs. $20+ million comprehensive)
- More exclusions than standalone policies
- Complicated claims processes
- May not cover pre-existing conditions at all
Credit card insurance can work as supplementary coverage but rarely provides comprehensive protection alone. Read your card's PDS carefully before relying on it exclusively.
"I'm young and healthy, do I really need insurance?"
Yes. Accidents don't discriminate by age. I know a 25-year-old who broke her leg in a simple slip on wet stairs in Thailand. The medical bills and emergency flight home cost $28,000. Her $50 insurance policy saved her from years of debt.
Young and healthy reduces your medical risk but doesn't eliminate travel risks: theft, trip cancellations, accidents, natural disasters. All remain possibilities regardless of age.
"Can I buy insurance after I've already left Australia?"
Some insurers allow this, but coverage is limited. You typically can't claim for anything that occurred before purchasing, and trip cancellation coverage is voided. It's always better to buy before departure, but post-departure insurance is better than nothing.
"Does my Australian health insurance cover me overseas?"
No. Medicare provides no overseas coverage except in very limited circumstances. Private health insurance occasionally includes limited overseas coverage, but it's never comprehensive. You still need travel insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts: Making Your Decision
After reviewing countless policies and helping numerous travellers navigate insurance decisions, here's my bottom-line advice: don't travel without insurance, but don't overpay for coverage you don't need.
The "best" travel insurance policy is the one that matches your specific situation. A budget backpacker heading to Southeast Asia needs different coverage than a senior couple cruising Alaska. A business traveller taking monthly trips requires different protection than a family going on their annual holiday.
My Recommended Approach
- Determine your travel pattern: Single trip or multiple trips annually?
- Assess your risk level: Age, health, destination, activities
- Set your budget: What can you reasonably afford?
- Compare 3-5 providers: Use comparison sites then check directly
- Read the PDS: Focus on exclusions and claims process
- Purchase early: Right after booking flights
- Document your policy: Save digital copies accessible anywhere
Quick Recommendations by Traveller Type
Budget Travellers: Allianz or Travel Insurance Direct – good coverage at lower prices
Frequent Travellers: Annual policy from Cover-More or Allianz – best value for multiple trips
Seniors (65+): Southern Cross or Cover-More – best pre-existing condition coverage
Families: 1Cover or Budget Direct – strong family pricing
Adventure Seekers: Cover-More or World Nomads – comprehensive activity coverage
Cruise Passengers: Cover-More or Southern Cross – best cruise-specific benefits
USA Travellers: Cover-More with unlimited medical – no compromises for US trips
The Bottom Line
Travel insurance costs less than 5% of your typical holiday budget but protects 100% of it. It's not an exciting purchase, but it's an essential one. The peace of mind alone is worth the investment.
I've never met anyone who regretted buying travel insurance, but I've met plenty who regretted not having it. Don't be penny wise and pound foolish with something this important.
Start your comparison today. Get quotes from multiple providers, read the PDSs, and choose coverage that genuinely protects your situation. Your future self – whether you claim or not – will thank you for making this responsible decision.
Important Reminder: This guide provides general information only and doesn't constitute financial advice. Travel insurance is a complex product with varying terms between providers. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement carefully before purchasing, and consider seeking personal advice if you have specific concerns or complex situations. Insurance policies and pricing change regularly – verify all details directly with providers before making your final decision.
Last updated: January 2026. Pricing and policy information accurate at time of publication but subject to change.