travel insurance australia international covid

Travel Insurance with COVID Cover

All Medibank Travel Insurance Plans have some COVID-19 cover included as standard.

Plus, Medibank and ahm health members save 15%.

What is travel insurance with covid cover?

A travel insurance policy with COVID-19 benefits includes cover for certain unforeseen COVID-19-related scenarios and can help reduce the financial risk of travelling. Depending on the level of cover you choose, benefits can include such things as COVID-19 overseas medical expenses, trip amendments & cancellation costs, and additional expenses.

COVID-19 policy benefits are for both international and domestic plans, but it's important to understand that not all COVID-19 scenarios will be covered. Continue reading to learn more about what you are - and aren't covered for when it comes to travel insurance with covid cover.

What COVID-19 benefits do we offer?

When taking out travel insurance with Medibank, cover will be provided for some common scenarios related to COVID-19. This means there's no need to "add covid cover" when purchasing Medibank Travel Insurance because every policy will come with some level of inbuilt covid cover.

Which benefits are included and the cover amount will depend on the travel insurance plan you select. Benefits may include: 

Cover for COVID-19 overseas medical costs ¹

Cover for covid-19 cancellation and amendments ², cover for additional covid-19 expenses ³.

Limits, sub-limits, conditions, and exclusions apply to COVID-19 travel insurance benefits. Please read our  Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)  for full details.

COVID-19 travel insurance options

All Medibank Travel Insurance Plans contain some inbuilt COVID-19 Cover. The information below helps you understand some of the high level inclusions at a glance.

International Comprehensive Travel Insurance

• $Unlimited  COVID-19 overseas medical costs 1
• Up to $10,000  for COVID-19 trip cancellations and amendments 2
• $Unlimited  additional expenses if diagnosed with COVID-19 on trip and admitted to a hospital 3
• Up to $5,000  additional expenses if diagnosed with COVID-19 and unfit to travel 3

International Medical Only Travel Insurance

• $Unlimited  COVID-19 overseas medical costs 1
• No cover provided for COVID-19 trip cancellation and amendments
• $Unlimited  additional expenses if diagnosed with COVID-19 on trip and admitted to hospital 3

Domestic Travel Insurance

• No cover provided for any COVID-19 medical costs
• Up to $5,000  for COVID-19 trip cancellations and amendments 2
• Up to $10,000  additional expenses if diagnosed with COVID-19 on trip and admitted to hospital 3
• Up to $5,000  additional expenses if diagnosed with COVID-19 and unfit to travel 3

Limits, sub-limits, conditions, and exclusions apply to COVID-19 travel insurance benefits. Please read our Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for full details.

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We're proud to be winners of Mozo's Experts Choice awards in 2022 & 2023 and Canstar's 2023 Most Satisfied Customer - Travel Insurance award.

Travel insurance with COVID-19 cover: what is included?

COVID-19 benefits are available on our International Comprehensive and Medical Only , and Domestic travel insurance plans. Covid benefits apply to both Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip policies. 

What is covered depends on the type of policy you purchase. COVID-19 benefits may include:

Pre-trip cancellation:², cover for your on-trip cancellation and amendment costs:², additional expenses:³, cancellation due to a relative or business partner having life-threatening covid-19:², $unlimited overseas medical costs:¹, cover for essential health care workers:.

What is not covered:  

• Cancellation and Amendment cover is not available if you purchase an International Medical Only Plan.
• Medical and Hospital Expense cover is not available on a Domestic Plan.   

Medibank Travel Insurance is proud to offer COVID-19 benefits, but unfortunately, we can’t cover every scenario that may arise as a result of COVID-19.

For example, we will not pay any claims arising from or caused by COVID-19 if: 

• Your destination is subject to a ‘Do not travel’ advice on the Smartraveller website at the time you enter the country or part of the country. (This ‘Do not travel’ exclusion does not apply if your destination is Australia or New Zealand).
• Your claim is related to you having travelled on a multi-night ocean or sea cruise and you have not purchased the additional Cruise Cover for your policy. (Note: Cabin confinement cover is not available even if Cruise Cover has been added). 
• Your costs are related to a government directed border closure.
• Your costs are due to mandatory quarantine or isolation orders required to cross a border, such as a border between states, countries, or regions. 

It is important to read the  Product Disclosure Statement  before you consider purchasing a travel insurance policy. Please take note of limits to cover. For full details on our covid travel insurance benefits, please read the  PDS  here.

FAQs: Before you travel

Remember to check the PDS  for full details. For more information, contact 13 23 31 .

Is COVID-19 cover an additional add on?

No, our COVID-19 benefits are in-built into every Medibank Travel Insurance policy. This means you do not need to add additional COVID-19 benefits cover when purchasing a policy. 

However, don't forget that if you are travelling on a multi-night ocean or sea cruise then you will need to make sure you have purchased  Cruise Cover  to be eligible to make any claims that are in any way related to cruise travel (this includes COVID-19 related cruise claims). 

Not every policy has the same level of covid cover, so it's important to carefully read the  PDS  to understand any limits, sub-limits, conditions and exclusions that apply to COVID-19 benefits. 

Will the COVID-19 benefit cover me if I’m diagnosed with COVID-19 and need to cancel my trip?

If you’re diagnosed with COVID-19 by a qualified medical practitioner and they confirm that you are unfit to travel, you may be able to claim the non-refundable cancellation costs. 

Cover details: 

• Domestic Plan: Cancellation and amendment benefit limit $5,000.
• International Comprehensive Plan: Cancellation and amendment benefit limit $10,000.
• International Medical Plan: No cover for cancellation and amendment costs.

Cover conditions:

• Subject to evidence of your positive COVID-19 diagnosis as diagnosed by a qualified medical practitioner who certifies you are not fit to travel. 
• There is no cover if symptoms or diagnosis occurred prior to buying your policy.
• Pre-booked sea and ocean cruises are included provided you added  Cruise Cover  to your policy.

Will the COVID-19 benefit cover me if I am deemed to have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 and need to cancel my trip?

Unfortunately, no cover is provided if you are deemed to be a close contact and must isolate and can therefore no longer go on your trip. 

Will the COVID-19 benefit cover me if I want to cancel as the government issued a ‘do not travel advice’ to my destination after I booked?

Unfortunately, no. If you booked your trip to a destination deemed safe to travel by the Australian Government and purchased Medibank Travel insurance, but prior to travelling that destination is now under a ‘Do not travel’ warning on smartraveller.gov.au , you may need to cancel your trip due to the risks of travel. There is no cancellation cover when cancelling your trip due to COVID-19 related travel warnings, regardless of the warning level.

• Cover applies for this event if the country or part of the country you travelled to was not subject to “Do not travel” advice on the smartraveller.gov.au website at the time you entered the country or part of the country. However, for trips in Australia or New Zealand, the Smartraveller “Do not travel” condition will be waived.
• This cover is subject to evidence of your positive COVID-19 diagnosis (confirmed by a qualified medical practitioner).
• No costs or expenses are covered if a quarantine or isolation order is placed on you by a government or public health authority.

Can I buy travel insurance if I am not vaccinated?

Yes, there are no limitations on getting an insurance policy with Medibank due to vaccination status.

FAQs: During your trip

Remember to check the  PDS  for full details. For more information, contact 13 23 31 .

Who should I contact if I get COVID-19 while overseas?

If you suspect you have COVID-19 you should call the Medibank 24/7 emergency assistance line. They'll be able to give you advice on what you need to do in order to make a claim against your policy. This can include how and where find a qualified medical practitioner to confirm a COVID-19 diagnosis. 

Learn more about our 24/7 emergency assistance .

Will Medibank Travel Insurance COVID-19 benefit cover me if I am diagnosed with COVID-19 while travelling and need to extend my stay?

If you get sick on your journey and need to extend your stay because a qualified medical practitioner certifies that you're unfit to travel as a result of COVID-19, then you'll be able to claim up to $5,000 of additional accommodation and transport expenses. 

If you are hospitalised as a result of COVID-19 then $10,000 of additional expense cover applies to Domestic Plans and $Unlimited additional expense cover applies to International Comprehensive and Medical Only Plans to help cover the cost of additional accomodation and transport as a result of extending your stay.

Please note, there is no cover for this event if your COVID-19 diagnosis requires you to enter a period of cabin confinement while on board the cruise ship, even if your policy includes Cruise Cover.

• Cover applies for this event if the country or part of the country you travelled to was not subject to “Do not travel” advice on the  smartraveller.gov.au  website at the time you entered the country or part of the country. However, for trips in Australia or New Zealand, the Smartraveller “Do not travel” condition will be waived.
• Other expenses you may incur (such as food, drinks, groceries, laundry etc.) are not included.

Terms conditions and exclusions apply, for full details, make sure you check out the  PDS .

Will Medibank Travel Insurance COVID-19 benefits cover me if I’m diagnosed with COVID-19 while travelling and need medical treatment?

Yes, on the International Comprehensive and International Medical Only plans, cover is available if you’re diagnosed with COVID-19 by a qualified medical practitioner and require medical treatment overseas.

Non-cruise travel: Yes, cover is available.

Cruise travel:  Yes, cover is available for overseas emergency medical expenses and ship-to-shore expenses if Cruise Cover is added to your policy.

There is no cover for medical expenses on the Domestic plan.

• Cover applies for this event if the country or part of the country you travelled to was not subject to “Do not travel” advice on the smartraveller.gov.au website at the time you entered the country or part of the country. 
• For trips in Australia or New Zealand, the Smartraveller “Do not travel” condition will be waived.
• Cover is subject to evidence of your positive COVID-19 diagnosis (confirmed by a qualified medical practitioner).

Do I need medical proof of my COVID-19 positive test result?

Yes, you will need a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose you with COVID-19 and certify that you are unfit for travel. A positive test result will not be sufficient proof to make a claim. 

Ready to book?

Great, use our handy tool for a quick and easy online quote or give us a call on 132 331 to chat through your options.

Things you should know

1  Medical cover will not exceed 12 months from onset. Medical evacuation cover subject to claim approval. 

2  Conditions and limits apply to COVID-19 cancellation cover. Cancellation cover applies to the International Comprehensive and Domestic policies. See the  Combined FSG/PDS  for more information.

3  Cover is for reasonable Additional accommodation expenses (room rate only) and Additional transport expenses. Conditions apply to COVID-19 additional expense cover. See the  Combined FSG/PDS  for more information.

Limits, sub-limits, exclusions and conditions apply. This is general advice only. Medibank Private Limited, ABN 47 080 890 259, an Authorised Representative, AR 286089, of Travel Insurance Partners Pty Limited, ABN 73 144 049 230 AFSL 360138 arranges the insurance on behalf of the insurer. The insurer is Zurich Australian Insurance Limited ABN 13 000 296 640, AFSL 232507. Please consider your own needs and the  Combined FSG/PDS  to decide if this product is right for you. For information on the Target Market and  Target Market Determinations , visit  medibank.com.au/travel-insurance/help/

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COVID-19 Health Assist - Expression of interest

Complete this form to express your interest in one of our programs. If you're eligible, a member of our team will call you within 2-3 business days.

What program are you interested in?

Sorry, only members with current Hospital cover are eligible to participate in these programs

Eligible Medibank members with Extras cover are able to access a range of telehealth services included on their cover - you can find out more here . Alternatively, if you would like to talk to one of our team about your cover, we're here on 132 331 .

Your membership details

Please provide your details so we can know how to contact you.

Your contact details

By clicking Submit, I understand that Medibank or its subsidiaries may contact me to discuss my eligibility for the Covid-19 Heath Assist program(s), and will disclose my personal information within the Medibank Group of companies and to third party service providers. Please see Medibank’s privacy policy for further information about how Medibank will handle my personal information, and how to contact Medibank: https://www.medibank.com.au/privacy/

Thank you for expressing your interest in one of our COVID-19 Health Assist programs.

If you are eligible, one of our health professionals will call you in 2-3 business days to discuss your situation and help to enrol you in the relevant program.

There is no cost to participate, however some referred services may incur an out of pocket cost.

Search Smartraveller

Choice travel insurance buying guide.

Do you need travel insurance? How do you choose the right cover? What are you covered for?

CHOICE answers all the questions you need to know before leaving the country.

Download the CHOICE travel insurance buying guide [PDF 3.52MB] Download the CHOICE travel insurance cheat sheet [PDF 587KB] Who is CHOICE? Set up by consumers for consumers, CHOICE is the independent consumer advocate that provides Australians with information and advice, free from commercial bias. Visit choice.com.au .

Why travel insurance?

• Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?

How to get travel insurance

Before you buy, how to save money on travel insurance.

• How to read the product disclosure statement

What are you covered for?

• Credit card insurance

How to make a complaint

If you’re leaving Australia, travel insurance is just as essential as a passport.

Holidays don’t always go as planned.

If you’re leaving Australia, travel insurance is just as essential as a passport. Medical expenses are the number one reason to get insurance, but sometimes other things can go wrong, such as trip cancellations, delays, lost luggage or even the big stuff like natural disasters and pandemics. If you end up out of pocket because of these things, insurance can make up for that.

The Australian Government won’t pay your medical bills.

In an emergency, the Australian Government can only help so much. The Consular Services Charter describes what the government can and can’t do to help Australians overseas.

If you end up injured or sick while overseas, you’ll be footing the hospital bill and the cost of flying home. If you’re really unlucky, that could cost you or your family hundreds of thousands of dollars.

68% of travellers mistakenly believe the Australian Government would ensure they get medical treatment if they need it overseas, and 43% believe the government would pay their medical bills.

Some countries won’t let you in if you don’t have insurance. 

Singapore and the UAE require you to have travel insurance. Not to mention all 26 European countries in the Schengen Area if you’re applying for a visa to visit. Read the Smartraveller travel advice for information about your destination.

Reciprocal healthcare Australia has reciprocal healthcare agreements with several countries: Belgium, Finland, Italy, Malta, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, the Republic of Ireland, Slovenia, Sweden and the United Kingdom. If you have Medicare, you can get subsidised treatment for essential services only in these countries, which often leads people to ask whether they still need travel insurance. The answer is yes, for the following reasons. You’re usually only covered for urgent care that can’t wait until you get home. If you’re very ill, travel insurance can pay for a medical escort to bring you home to Australia. You still may have to pay fees for treatment and medication. For example, in New Zealand reciprocal health care doesn’t cover you for free or subsidised care by a general practitioner or ambulance. Travel insurance can cover you for cancellations, delays, stolen items and more.

Remember to take your Medicare card with you. You’ll need it, along with your passport, to prove you’re eligible for reciprocal health care. For more information, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au .

Marco* had breathing difficulties on his way home from Europe, causing his flight to be diverted to the UAE. Hospitals in the UAE won’t admit you unless you have insurance or can pay an upfront fee. Marco’s family had to pay thousands of dollars for his treatment. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

Do you need domestic travel insurance?

Most of us already have medical cover at home, be it Medicare or private health insurance or both. But there are still a few key reasons to consider domestic travel insurance.

• Cancellation: If you’ve spent a lot on your holiday, then it’s not too much extra to buy travel insurance in case of the unforeseen.
• Baggage cover: If you’re travelling with valuables, think about whether you want them covered for theft, loss or damage.
• Car hire excess: You can save money using travel insurance to cover your collision damage excess, rather than paying the car hire company’s extra charge.

Does international travel insurance cover COVID-19?

Many travel insurers now offer limited cover for COVID-19, but the available cover varies quite a lot.  Some policies only cover medical and repatriation costs if you get COVID-19 overseas, while other policies provide limited cover for cancellation costs in addition to medical and repatriation costs.

You should always check the details of your insurance coverage, particularly how it applies to COVID-19 and travel disruptions.

Over 90% of travellers will look for insurance that covers them for cancellation and medical expenses caused by COVID-19.

If you’re planning to go on a cruise, be extra careful. Some travel insurers may not offer COVID-19 cover for multi-night cruises or they may restrict the cover provided on cruises.

Also, don’t rely on the travel insurance on your credit card unless you check it closely – it may not cover claims related to COVID-19.

There are cooling-off periods for COVID-19 cancellation cover, so it’s best to buy your travel insurance at the same time as you book your trip. Some insurers may only cover cancellation if you test positive to COVID-19 and the policy was purchased more than 21 days before your scheduled departure date.

Make your travel plans COVID-safe

You need to be prepared for your travel plans to be interrupted at short notice. As travel insurance may not protect you from government border closures, general lockdowns or quarantine requirements in your destination country, the key is to book only with providers that allow you flexibility should things change.

• Check the rules for travelling to your destination. For example, are there any entry requirements? What are the vaccination requirements? And what type of travel insurance do you need?
• Read the terms and conditions of your airline, accommodation and travel tours before you book. Will they refund you if you can’t travel due to COVID-19? If they only offer a reschedule or a credit, will you be in a position to redeem the credit in future?
• You can book flexible tickets for flights but be aware you usually have to pay the difference between the prices for the tickets you bought and the new tickets. So changing your flight dates at short notice can be very expensive.
• If you book through a travel agent or booking site, what are their terms and conditions? Will they refund you or provide a credit? Are there cancellation fees?
• If you pay by credit or debit card (and you selected ‘credit’ when you paid), you may have access to credit card chargebacks if something goes wrong.
• Keep on top of the latest travel advice and requirements at smartraveller.gov.au . Travel restrictions can change at short notice.
• If you do have to cancel, your travel insurer will ask you to claim what you can back from travel providers first. Read the CHOICE advice on how to get your money back on travel cancellations and ask your travel insurer if you can get a refund or partial refund of your travel insurance premium.

You can buy travel insurance from a travel insurer, travel agent, insurance broker, credit card provider, or even from your health, home or car insurer.

You can buy travel insurance online (direct from the insurer’s website, from a comparison site or through an airline booking site), over the counter or over the phone.

Buy travel insurance as soon as you know your travel dates. That way you’re covered if your trip is cancelled before you even leave or if you’re unable to travel at all.

You can certainly buy travel insurance quicker than it will take you to read this guide, but do you know what you’ll be covered for? Will you be covered if you trip over after having a drink? If you crash your scooter in Thailand? If you lose your wallet during a stopover? If you need to isolate because you contract COVID-19?

There are a lot of ‘what ifs’ to consider, depending on where you’re going and what you’ll be doing, so it’s worth reading the product disclosure statement (PDS) first to make sure you’ll be covered.

Will you use it? Hopefully not, but research by Smartraveller found that one in 4 Australian travellers experienced an insurable event on their last overseas trip. Most common insurable events Flight or tour cancelled Flight delayed more than 12 hours Received medical treatment Lost, damaged or stolen luggage Missed a connecting flight Lost, damaged or stolen cash or personal items Forced to cancel trip before departure What if the insurers don’t pay out? Australian travellers lodged almost 300,000 insurance claims in 2018–19, the last financial year before COVID-19 travel bans. Almost 90% of those were paid out. Top four reasons for declined claims Due to policy exclusions, or not included in the policy conditions Claim amount was below the excess Claim was due to a pre-existing medical condition Claim was for an item that was stolen while it was unattended

1. Where are you going?

The level of cover and the cost of travel insurance can vary depending on the region you’re travelling to, and some risks may be of greater concern than others. Not all travel insurance policies cover COVID-19 and other pandemics or epidemics such as SARS. And not all policies cover you for changing your plans due to a riot or civil commotion, for example. Travel insurance also may not be available for countries with travel alerts.

• Look up your destination on smartraveller.gov.au and make sure you’re aware of any risks or safety advice.
• Buy a policy that covers you for every country you’re travelling to or transiting through. If you’re going to Europe via a one-night stopover in the US, then get cover for the US and Europe. Usually a worldwide policy will cover this.

86% of travellers say they’re more cautious after the COVID-19 pandemic about travelling to places where it could prove harder to return home in a crisis.

You need different cover for different regions

Insurers sometimes apply policies to regions rather than having a policy for each destination.

Asia Pacific: Destinations such as New Zealand, Bali, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.

Asia: Destinations such as India, Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia.

Europe: Destinations such as the United Kingdom, Ireland and Western Europe.

Worldwide: All of the above as well as regions such as North America, South America, Japan and Africa.

These definitions differ for each insurer. For example, several insurers cover travel to Bali under their Pacific policy, while some will only cover travel to Bali under their Asian region policy.

2. How long are you going for?

Just a quick trip? Simply buy a standalone travel insurance policy for a set number of days.

Travel often? Consider an annual multi-trip policy or a credit card with complimentary travel insurance, but make sure it gives you the cover you need.

Tip: Annual multi-trip policies and credit card policies can restrict the length of each trip you take – anywhere from 15 to 365 days depending on your policy. Some allow you to pay for extra days.

3. What are you going to do there?

Cruising the open road on a moped? Carving up the ski slopes? Partying at a wedding? These things aren’t necessarily included in a travel insurance policy.

Scan the insurer’s list of included activities and those that you’ll have to pay extra for. And take it easy on the grog – if your alcohol or drug intake is the cause of an adverse event, it won’t be covered by your policy.

4. Are you taking any valuable items?

Do you need cover for a digital SLR camera or an expensive tablet or laptop? Cover for such valuables can vary from a few hundred dollars to thousands, and higher cover will often mean a higher premium.

Consider adding cover for portable valuables to your home insurance policy instead, but check on the excess and if the policy will cover you worldwide and not just in Australia.

Policies also vary when it comes to how they cover valuable items. Valuables in your check-in luggage often aren’t covered, while cover for baggage stored in your hire car is inconsistent. And baggage left unattended is never covered, which can include a bag that is stolen from the seat beside you in a restaurant while you’re looking the other way.

Make sure you have receipts for your valuables as travel insurance will not pay if you can’t prove you own them.

5.   Do you have any medical conditions?

If you have a medical condition that existed before you bought your policy, it may not be covered. This can range from something as common as allergies or asthma through to diabetes, heart conditions and knee replacements.

If you’re not sure, the best thing to do is contact the insurer to ask whether they’ll cover your condition automatically or whether you need to do an assessment.

The Massoud family* was holidaying in Singapore when 13-year-old Nazreen had a recurrence of severe bronchitis, which had affected her in Australia before their trip. The family’s travel insurer refused to pay any hospital bills as Nazreen’s bronchitis was a pre-existing medical condition. As a result, the Massouds had to ask their friends to transfer the $17,000 they needed to cover Nazreen’s hospital expenses, additional accommodation and the cost of changing flights. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

It’s important to compare policies for cost and cover. Some travel insurance premiums increased by as much as 30% between March and June 2022.

Three-quarters (77%) of travellers are willing to pay more for insurance that covers pandemic-related claims.

The further out from your departure date that you buy travel insurance, the more you’re likely to pay for it, but you’ll be covered from the moment you buy your policy. For example, if you buy insurance 2 months before you fly, you effectively have cheap cover for any events that affect your travel plans in those 2 months.

If you pay for your trip in full 6 months in advance, but you only buy an insurance policy 2 weeks before you depart, you may not be covered for any cancellation costs if you contract COVID-19.

Left it until the last minute, or even later? Only a few insurers let you buy insurance once you’re already overseas (look for the ‘Have you already left Australia?’ checkbox when viewing policy options).

While not all policies offer online discounts, plenty do. Make sure you understand the policy and what it covers. Sometimes (but not always) a reduced price may mean reduced cover.

Tip: Check asic.gov.au/afslicensing to find out whether the agent has an Australian financial services (AFS) licence or is an authorised representative of a licence holder. Take the usual precautions when giving your credit card and other details over the internet.

Member discounts

Does your health, car or home insurance provider also sell travel insurance? Some companies give 10–15% discounts to existing members.

Shop around

Trying to negotiate with a website will probably get you nowhere, but if you’re buying over the phone or through a travel agent, give it a go. Travel agents pocket a commission when they sell you insurance, so if you find a better deal elsewhere, ask them if they can beat it.

Almost two-thirds (62%) of overseas travellers who buy insurance do so on or before the day of booking travel.

Use your credit card

Some credit cards come with ‘free’ travel insurance when you use them to buy a ticket, pay for other travel expenses or otherwise activate it (we say ‘free’ because you’ll pay a premium in fees for the card itself).

This type of insurance can sometimes be a money-saver, and the level of cover can be just as good or even better than standard insurance, but make sure it gives you the cover you need.

Compromise on cover

While good medical cover is always essential, you could save money on your premium by choosing a policy with lower or variable cover for cancellation, delays and lost baggage, especially if you aren’t spending big on your holiday or taking expensive items with you.

Have you read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)? According to research conducted in 2022, of those who bought travel insurance: 45% have skim-read the PDS 43% have read the PDS in detail 8% have left the PDS to another person on the policy to read 2% have not and will not read the PDS 2% don’t know

About that fine print

You’re about to click ‘buy’, so you may as well just tick this ‘I acknowledge I’ve read the product disclosure statement’ checkbox and bon voyage…

But wait – have you checked the fine print? In the insurance world, that ‘fine print’ is contained in the product disclosure statement, or PDS (that thing you said you’d read).

How to read the PDS

There are hundreds of policies out there and if you tried to read all the paperwork that comes with each policy, you’d have to extend your holiday just to recover.

If you don’t have time to read the whole PDS cover to cover, at least look for the following.

• The table of benefits is an overall summary of your cover.
• The policy cover section is essential reading and is generally split into ‘what we will pay for’ and ‘what we won’t pay for’.
• General exclusions are also essential reading – these are events that aren’t covered by any section of the policy.
• Pre-existing conditions can remind you of forgotten ailments and are essential reading for anyone with any kind of medical condition, no matter how mild.
• The word definition table might contain a few surprises – it’s a good place to check on the definition of a ‘relative’ or a ‘moped’, for example.
• The claims section lists some further pointers to be aware of (e.g. it’s a good idea not to admit fault or liability in the case of an accident) and the paperwork you may need to collect while you’re away if you need to make a claim, such as police reports.
• COVID-19 cover section – many policies have a special section listing medical, cancellation and other cover available for COVID-19.
• The 24-hour emergency assistance contact number (write it down and keep it handy).

The Weaver* family was relieved to have travel insurance when they needed to cancel their holiday. The family wanted to go skiing in New Zealand, but a few days before they were due to depart, 12-year-old Ruby had cold symptoms. A COVID-19 test showed she was positive. Ruby and her whole family had to isolate and their travel insurance paid their cancellation costs. *This is a fictitious but realistic example

The list of travel insurance disputes taken to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) reveals a battlefield of unread or misinterpreted terms and conditions. Between 1 July 2020 and 30 June 2021, AFCA received more than 2,000 travel insurance complaints related to COVID-19.

Not all travel insurance policies are the same, and the wrong policy can be almost as bad as none at all.

Peter* and his business partner had booked a business trip to South Korea and Japan from 21 February 2020 to 2 March 2020. On 20 February, Peter cancelled the trip on advice of his GP who said that due to the uncertainty of the extent of the COVID-19 outbreak, he should postpone the trip until it is safe to travel. Peter’s travel insurer denied his claim, saying the policy does not provide cover for cancellation due to medical advice. Peter made a complaint and AFCA ruled in his favour as COVID-19 had been publicly announced as an epidemic prior to Peter cancelling the trip and the doctor’s advice not to travel was prudent and reasonable. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

Checklist – Are you covered for COVID-19? Are your medical costs covered if you contract COVID-19? Are your extra expenses such as accommodation covered if you can’t travel or your stay gets extended because you or your travelling companion tests positive to COVID-19? What happens if you were going to stay with someone but they’ve contracted COVID-19? Or your accommodation or tour company gets closed down because of COVID-19? Are your additional expenses covered? If the Smartraveller alert level is raised to ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ or ‘Do not travel’ due to a COVID-19 outbreak at your destination after you took out travel insurance, are you covered if you cancel your trip? Are your cancellation costs covered if you can’t travel or can’t return on your booked flights because you or your travelling companion contracted COVID-19? Are you covered for cancellation costs if your business partner or a relative back home gets sick with COVID-19 and you need to return earlier than planned? If you’re planning to go on a cruise, be extra careful. Some travel insurers may not offer COVID-19 cover for multi-night cruises. Are you covered for claims caused by government travel bans, border closures, or mandatory quarantine or self-isolation requirements at your destination?

And what are the catches?

Cancellations, baggage and personal items, sports and activities.

This is the number one reason to buy international travel insurance. Look for the insurer’s benefits table, usually on the quotes screen online or near the front of their PDS, for a quick overview of what they’re offering. Most policies have an ‘unlimited’ sum insured.

Pre-existing conditions

Some insurers don’t cover pre-existing conditions at all. Some will only cover pre-existing conditions with an extra fee and sometimes a medical assessment. Some automatically cover pre-existing conditions listed in their PDS, although few will cover mental illnesses such as depression or anxiety.

Insurers exclude cover for certain pre-existing medical conditions and generally don’t provide cover for any illnesses or incidents that arise from these. This includes terminal illness or any illness that shortens your life expectancy as well as organ transplants.

Minor pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma, hypertension, diabetes, epilepsy, osteopenia and more are usually covered if:

the condition has been stable for more than 12 months

there is no planned surgery

you have not received treatment in the past 12 months.

Pre-existing condition spoiling your holiday plans? findaninsurer.com.au lists insurers that may provide cover for pre-existing conditions. Still having trouble finding cover? Enlist the help of an insurance broker.

Examples of conditions that usually need to be assessed before getting cover are coronary problems, lung disease, epilepsy, stroke or any surgeries in the last 2 years.

If in doubt, declare your condition to your insurer.

A disability shouldn’t prevent you from buying travel insurance, but it might make finding a good policy trickier and more expensive.

Is a disability a pre-existing condition?

It depends on the disability and the insurer. Many insurers will automatically cover travellers with limited mobility, cognitive impairments or vision/hearing impairments. But in some cases, this cover may come at an extra cost.

Check with the insurer, as some conditions will need to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Having trouble getting cover?

Under the Disability Discrimination Act, insurers must assess the actual risks, rather than make assumptions about disabilities. If you’re having trouble getting insurance, a letter from a medical professional might help, particularly if they can state that you’re not likely to need medical or hospital treatment while on your trip.

Cover for your equipment

If you’re travelling with a wheelchair, mobility aid or hearing aid, you’ll need to insure that as well. Check single item limits, which are usually between $750 and $1,000 per item. If you have a piece of medical equipment that exceeds this, you’ll need to specify it and insure it separately.

Many insurance policies exclude hearing aids, so check the fine print and take out extra insurance if necessary.

Cover for your carer

If you’re travelling with a carer, it’s a good idea to be on the same policy in case travel plans change for either of you – that way you’re both covered. If you have a paid carer, ask your insurer whether they’ll cover the cost of a replacement carer should yours be unable to travel.

Babymooning

If you’re travelling while pregnant, be sure to check the following.

• Are you covered for pregnancy complications? Some insurers don’t cover pregnancy at all.
• Up until which stage of pregnancy? Pregnancy complications are usually only covered up until a certain stage (often between 23 and 32 weeks, depending on the insurer).
• Childbirth: Not all insurers will cover childbirth. A premature birth in the US with intensive care and treatment could end up costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.
• IVF: Not all insurers will cover IVF pregnancies.
• Do you have to pay extra to be covered?
• Do you need medical approval to be covered?

Mental health

Many travel insurers won’t provide cover of any kind for hospitalisation, medication or missed travel caused by a mental health condition, whether that’s depression, anxiety or a psychotic episode.

Others will provide cover if you declare mental illness as a pre-existing condition and pay a higher premium. Check the PDS carefully; insurers may use different terms to describe the same mental health conditions, giving them wriggle room to deny a claim.

Insurers are highly unlikely to pay a mental health-related claim if they discover it was a pre-existing condition that you didn’t declare. The trouble is, an insurer might view a single visit to a therapist many years ago because of work stress, for example, as a pre-existing mental health condition.

Mental health and travel insurance have been a contentious issue for consumer rights groups including CHOICE – and it’s one that’s still evolving from a legal standpoint.

To find out if a travel insurance product includes mental health cover, check choice.com.au/travelinsurance , filtering for ‘mental illness related claims’. Then put the PDS under the microscope.

A woman in Victoria won a court case against her insurer after they declined her claim for the cancellation of an overseas trip due to depression. ‘We took out the travel insurance well in advance of the travel, and well before my depression. I was certainly under the impression that I was covered,’ she told CHOICE. ‘They just sent back a letter that said no.’ But her win (the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal awarded her $4,292 for economic loss and a further $15,000 for non-economic loss) was an isolated ruling. It’s still being debated whether or not a general exclusion for mental health claims is legal.

Most policies have an age limit, ranging right up to the 100-year-old seasoned adventurer. There are quite a few catches for older travellers, though.

• Higher premiums: Insurers often charge older travellers more, and in some cases ‘older’ can be as young as 50. 
• Higher excess: Travellers as young as 60 but more commonly over 80 may be subject to a higher excess because of their age. The normal excess of around $100 to $200 is often increased to an excess of $2,000 to $3,000 for travellers 80 years and over for claims that relate to injury or illness.
• Restricted conditions: Subject to medical assessment’, ‘reduced medical cover limits’, ‘reduced travel time’, ‘policy to be purchased 6 months in advance’ – all of these conditions can apply to travellers over a certain age.

You’ll probably want to be covered if your travel plans are cancelled for any reason, but be aware that insurers will come up with plenty of excuses to avoid paying up.

• Terrorism: Most insurers cover medical expenses but very few cover cancellation expenses in the event of terrorism.
• Pandemic or epidemic: Commonly excluded.
• Military action: Commonly excluded.
• Natural disaster: Covered more often than not.
• Travel provider/agent insolvency: Commonly excluded.
• Cancellation due to travel provider’s fault: Insurers commonly exclude cover for delays or rescheduling caused by the transport provider.

John* and his partner’s scheduled train service was delayed, seriously diverted, then terminated, which meant they missed their flight home by several hours. Re-booking fees, emergency accommodation and related fees cost them between $1,000 and $1,500, but the insurer wouldn’t pay the claim as it wasn’t in the policy. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

‘Unforeseen’

When an insurer refers to cover for ‘unforeseen circumstances’, it means something that wasn’t publicised in the media or official government websites when you bought the policy. Check the Smartraveller travel advice when you buy your travel insurance. If it became known before you bought the policy, you’re not covered. So the earlier you buy travel insurance, the more likely you are to be covered for the unexpected.

Exclusions and inclusions

When the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) looks at a complaint about an insurer, they expect you to prove the claim is covered by the policy, while the insurer must prove the claim is excluded by the policy. Specifically, AFCA expects you to ‘establish on the balance of probabilities that you suffered a loss caused by an event to which the policy responds’. That is, do you have a valid claim?

This means that you need to understand if your claim is covered under the listed events of the policy, or that it is not specifically excluded by the policy.

If, for example, you have cover for COVID-19, you aren’t covered for every event caused by the pandemic, but just by what is specifically stated in the PDS.

Margaret and Peter* booked a cruise departing from Darwin in March 2021. Shortly before departure, the Northern Territory Government issued a directive no longer allowing cruises to depart from the NT. Margaret and Peter’s cruise company arranged for the cruise to depart from Broome and flew the passengers to Broome for a cost of $300 per person. As Margaret had bought a policy that included some cover for COVID-19, she made a claim for $600. But this was denied by her travel insurer and her subsequent complaint to AFCA was unsuccessful. AFCA said, ‘The cause of the loss was a government directive to not permit the cruise to operate through the NT port. The insurer’s policy provides no cover for these circumstances. It also excludes losses arising from government intervention, prohibition or regulation.’ *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

Travel insurance and Smartraveller advice Smartraveller, managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), assigns an overall advice level to more than 175 destinations. This advice level can affect your travel insurance cover. The advice levels are: Level 1  – Exercise normal safety precautions. COVERED. Level 2  – Exercise a high degree of caution. COVERED. Level 3  – Reconsider your need to travel. CHECK. Level 4  – Do not travel. USUALLY NOT COVERED. Travel warnings can work in your favour. If an insurer excludes cover for an event, they may still cover you to change your plans in response to updated advice from Smartraveller. But beware when travelling to a destination that has a ‘Do not travel’ warning. Most standard policies won’t cover you for ‘Do not travel’ destinations, including for COVID-19. A week after a volcanic eruption made world news, Sameer* booked a trip to Bali. He assumed the emergency would be over by the time he was due to fly a month later. Unfortunately, the volcano continued to erupt and Sameer’s flight was cancelled. His insurer declined his claim because he’d bought the flight and insurance after Smartraveller issued a travel alert about the volcanic eruption, and after it had been in the news. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

Delays can be expensive, particularly if you have to pay for alternative transport or accommodation. And those extra expenses won’t always be covered.

• Transport delay is only covered after a certain number of hours, usually 6, but you may have to wait as long as 12 hours before your cover kicks in.
• Cover limits for transport delays are typically lower than other cover limits and are often limited per 24-hour period.
• Insurers often exclude cover for rescheduling caused by the transport provider but some may cover additional accommodation and travel expenses in this scenario for travellers who are en route.

Baggage cover varies widely, with travel insurance policies ranging from $0 to $30,000. So, if you’re not carrying expensive items, you may be able to save on your premium by selecting a policy that provides lower coverage.

• Individual items are subject to sub-limits that range from around $250 to as much as $5,000.
• Higher item limits usually apply for electronic items like laptops, cameras, smartphones and tablets.
• You can pay extra to specify items you want extra cover for (insurers are always happy for you to pay extra).
• Valuables locked in a car or checked in on an airline, train or bus may not be covered.
• Generally, any items left unattended may be excluded from cover, so keep your belongings close.

Jing* sat down to try on a pair of shoes in a busy London shoe shop, placing her handbag next to her on the seat. When she stood up to leave, she discovered her bag was gone. Her insurer refused to pay up because she had left her bag unattended in a public place. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

Lost luggage

If an airline loses your luggage temporarily and doesn’t compensate you for that loss, you may be able to claim expenses for clothing, toiletries and other necessities, depending on your policy.

• Cover usually only applies to luggage lost for more than 12 hours, though the minimum time limit varies per insurer, as does the level of cover.
• If your policy has an excess (a fee that’s deductible from your payout), remember that this applies once per claimed event, and items below the excess level can’t be claimed.

Angelo and Diane* tried to claim $112 for meals and drinks when their connecting flight to Hawaii was delayed by 8 hours. Although their policy technically covered them for the cost, they were liable for an excess of $250, so their claim was denied. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

If you don’t feel like paying the ‘extra insurance’ the car hire company charges, then use the collision damage excess cover in your travel insurance.

Tip: Stick with recognised car rental companies in this case since this cover only applies if the car hire company already has its own comprehensive insurance.

Do you have the right licence?

Some countries require you to have an international driving permit. If you have an accident while driving on the wrong licence (or breaking that country’s law in any other way), you may not be covered.

Cruise-specific insurance

Cruises aren’t automatically included in all travel insurance policies. If you’re going on a cruise, make sure you have the right cover.

The Department of Health says: ‘Cruise ships carry a higher risk for spreading disease compared to other non-essential activities and transport modes. COVID-19, influenza and other infectious diseases such as gastroenteritis spread easily between people living and socialising in close quarters.’

Check travel insurance policies to make sure medical cover for COVID-19 is included, as some policies exclude this cover. Erica* stumbled and broke her femur during stormy seas while on a cruise. Her insurer covered the cost of evacuation and a partial hip replacement at a hospital in Noumea. They also organised and paid for her son to fly to Noumea to help her recover and return home to Australia. Five months later, the well-travelled 82-year-old was boarding a plane to Croatia for her next (fully insured) adventure. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

Not leaving Australian waters?

You still need insurance. Doctors working on cruise ships don’t need Medicare provider numbers, so if they treat you, you can’t claim on Medicare or your private health insurance, even if you’re still in Australian waters.

Domestic travel insurance doesn’t cover medical costs, so you need either international travel insurance (check that it covers domestic cruises) or a domestic cruise policy.

Kerry* thought she’d done the right thing buying an annual multi-trip international travel insurance policy for a number of upcoming holidays, one of which was a round-trip cruise departing from and returning to Fremantle, Western Australia, with no port stops. When she had to cancel due to ill health, she discovered her policy wouldn’t cover her because the trip wasn’t considered an international one. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

When CHOICE compares travel insurers, we look at who covers which sports and adventure activities, such as skiing, ballooning, bungee jumping and scuba diving, to name a few.

But as always with insurance, the PDS may include some surprises. For example, several insurers we’ve reviewed will cover canyoning but they won’t cover abseiling, often a necessity in canyoning. Other policies in our comparison will cover abseiling, but not into a canyon.

If you’re planning on doing anything adventurous, check to make sure you’re covered. It’s not enough to simply look for the tick next to your chosen activity – you also need to check the definitions in the PDS.

Motorcycles and mopeds

Hiring a motorcycle or moped? Depending on which country you’re in, you might need a local or international motorcycle licence. You probably won’t be covered if you aren’t obeying the local law. And even if you are doing the right thing under local law, some policies still won’t cover you unless you have a motorcycle licence.

Are you wearing a helmet? Most countries say you need one by law, but that doesn’t mean it will be included in your hire. No helmet means no cover (in more ways than one).

Nhung* was injured after she rented a moped in Thailand only to find out the engine size was not covered by her insurance policy. Most insurers adopt the national standard for the definition of a moped – an engine capacity under 50cc. If the engine is bigger than that, it’s a motorcycle and you’ll need an Australian motorcycle licence. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

Skiing and snowboarding

Some insurers cover skiing, often for an extra premium, but not so many cover skiing off-piste (away from the groomed runs). So, if you’re tempted to slide off the beaten path next time you hit the slopes, make sure you have a policy that covers off-piste ski runs (or pay for the optional extra cover).

Otherwise, if you run into a tree and have to be evacuated from the mountains, you may need to  think about selling your home to pay for it.

It’s worth remembering that travel insurance only covers overseas costs. So if you break a leg while you’re abroad, your insurer will likely pay your hospital fees, but they won’t cover your ongoing physiotherapy once you’re back home.

Marianna* fractured her leg in 3 places while skiing with her partner and children in Japan. Because the family had bought additional cover for winter sports, they were reimbursed $35,466 for medical expenses, additional transport and accommodation, the cost of a nanny to look after the children, and business class flights back to Australia. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

Alcohol and drugs

Overdoing it on vodka and float-tubing down a river isn’t likely to be covered by any policy. Insurers simply won’t pay for costs arising from you being under the influence of alcohol or drugs (except where taken under the advice of a doctor).

Even one or 2 drinks could be enough of an excuse for insurers to get out of paying.

Relatives can be relative Many policies cover the costs to travel home if one of your relatives dies or becomes sick. Bear in mind: an insurer’s definition of a ‘relative’ may differ from yours cover is usually dependent on the age of that relative, so the death of your 84-year-old grandma may not be covered your relatives are subject to the same pre-existing condition exclusions as you, so if your 84-year-old grandma died from a known heart condition, you may not be covered. you may be able to apply for your relative’s pre-existing condition to be assessed before you buy the policy. cover is limited to relatives that live in Australia, or in some cases New Zealand. So if your 84-year-old grandma is in China, you won’t be covered to fly there for her funeral. Amanda* and her husband had booked an overseas diving trip, but shortly before the trip Amanda’s mum passed away from pneumonia. They cancelled their trip and incurred cancellation costs and lost deposits of nearly $13,000. As the death of a parent was covered in their policy, Amanda made a claim. Their insurer denied the claim as Amanda’s mum lived in the United States and was undergoing treatment for lung cancer, so the insurer concluded that her death was caused by a pre-existing condition. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

So you’ve booked and paid for your holiday through a travel agent, but then the travel agent goes broke. You’ll get your money back, right? Not necessarily.

Only a few insurers will cover you for the insolvency of a travel provider, and that includes hotels, airlines and other transport companies that might go broke overnight (remember Ansett?). But there are a few ways to safeguard your hard-earned holiday.

• Check whether your insurer covers you for insolvency.
• Check whether your travel agent has insolvency insurance (this isn’t compulsory, so only some will have it).
• Pay with your credit card. Some banks allow a chargeback if you pay for something on your credit card and don’t end up actually getting it.

Tip: Don’t accept any dodgy contract terms that require you to give up your chargeback rights.

2 out of 3 travellers assume their travel insurance will cover insolvency, but in 2017 less than a third of insurers actually provided this cover.

Credit card travel insurance

Some credit cards come with complimentary travel insurance. They’ll cover you for all the usual things like medical emergencies, cancellation and protection for baggage and items. But they do differ from standalone policies, so it’s essential you check the fine print.

• Fees: You’ll pay a premium for these credit cards, usually between $100 and $450 per year.
• Excess: The excess on credit card policies tends to be fixed at a higher rate (usually around $250), whereas it’s more variable on standalone policies.
• Age limits: Some credit card policies have no age limit, which can be handy for older travellers.
• Regions: Credit card travel insurance is not based on location, which means you can travel from Europe to the US without having to worry if your policy covers both areas. Bear in mind though that some regions (such as countries under United Nations embargo) may be excluded, and sometimes with US underwriters, travel to Cuba is excluded.
• Baggage cover: Credit card insurance often offers higher coverage for baggage loss and damage.
• Trip duration: Credit card insurance policies vary in how many days of coverage they’ll give you per trip – anywhere from a few weeks to 365 days – so check your limit if you’re going on a long holiday.
• Pre-existing conditions: Chances are your credit card insurance won’t automatically cover your pre-existing condition. You’ll need to call your insurer and see if you need to pay an extra fee or premium.
• Domestic travel: Credit card insurance doesn’t apply to domestic travel, although some cards will reimburse expenses associated with domestic flight delays and missed connections to international flights.
• Making a claim: You may not be able to claim reimbursement unless you pay for purchases (such as emergency items after a baggage delay) with the same credit card.

27% of travellers who plan to buy travel insurance will get it through their credit card.

Is it activated?

Credit card insurance usually activates when you buy your air tickets (or sometimes other transport or accommodation expenses) using your card.

• Policies require a minimum spend to activate – usually around $500. So if you scored your tickets on sale for $499, you won’t be covered.
• If you want cover for your spouse or dependants, you must also buy their tickets on your card.
• Some policies only activate if you book a return ticket. A one-way flight, or even 2 one-way flights, will leave you uninsured.
• Some banks require you to notify them in order to get full coverage for each trip. While base coverage will still give you emergency medical treatment, you might not get coverage for property damage or luggage delays. Check whether you need to do anything to activate any extra features.
• Some cards will cover you if you use rewards points to buy your tickets. Others won’t.

Is it worth it?

If you already have a credit card and use it regularly, the free comprehensive travel insurance on your card can save you money. And if you’re a regular traveller without a credit card, it’s worth considering if you travel at least once a year or every second year internationally.

David* booked a trip to North America for himself and his family, including his 11-year-old daughter Petra. The trip was cancelled because Petra got pneumonia. Unfortunately, David only activated his credit card travel insurance about an hour before the family was scheduled to fly out of Australia. The travel insurer denied his claim for cancellation costs because he knew about his daughter’s illness when he activated the policy. *To protect privacy we have changed names and some details

Have you been knocked back on an insurance claim and want to dispute it?

Internal dispute resolution

Complain to the insurer first. They’ll usually keep you up to date about the progress of your complaint every 10 business days.

Once you’ve lodged your case and all the supporting information and documents, the insurer has 45 days to complete its internal dispute resolution process.

External dispute resolution

If you aren’t happy with the insurer’s decision, you can take your complaint to the Australian Financial Complaint Authority (AFCA). They’ll handle your case for free.

• The AFCA will mediate between you and the insurer to find a resolution.
• If mediation is unsuccessful, they may make a preliminary assessment or give a determination straight away on your dispute.
• A determination is legally binding on the insurer but not on you.
• There’s no appeal process with AFCA.
• For more information, visit afca.org.au .

Legal action

If you’re unhappy with the AFCA determination, you might want to consider taking legal action against the insurance company.

Keep your travel insurance details with you at all times while on your trip and share them with family or friends before you leave.

Related content

No matter who you are, where you're going and what you're doing, get travel insurance. Learn how to choose a policy that's right for you.

This page provides mature travellers with information to prepare for a hassle-free journey. Properly preparing before you travel will help you have a safe trip.

Browse our general advice pages on a range of travel topics, to learn what you need to know before you go.

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care

COVID-19 and travel

Find out about travel requirements and steps you can take to stay safe.

Domestic travel within Australia

Domestic travel requirements are determined by state and territory governments. Check the websites of local health departments for information about travel to:

• Australian Capital Territory
• New South Wales
• Northern Territory
• South Australia
• Western Australia .

Travelling overseas

The Australian Government does not currently have any COVID-19 requirements in place for travellers entering and departing Australia.

COVID-19 however continues to pose a health risk in Australia and overseas. We strongly encourage wearing masks and being vaccinated while travelling internationally. You should practice good cough and hand hygiene, and physically distance from others where possible.

Some countries, airlines and vessel operators may have COVID-19 travel requirements in place. Check the requirements of any:

• countries you are travelling to, or transiting through
• airlines or vessel operators.
• Smartraveller website
• Australian Government – international travel information .

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is important if you become sick with COVID-19 overseas. Make sure your insurance includes:

• transit destinations
• inclusions for COVID-19
• other add-ons like cruise specific insurance.

Some destinations also require travellers to hold travel insurance as a condition of entry.

Cruise travel

Check with your cruise provider or travel agent for up-to-date travel requirements for your ship and destination/s. You can also contact the relevant state or territory government to find out if any requirements apply for your destination.

Outbreaks onboard a cruise

Cruise ships carry a higher risk for spreading disease compared to other types of travel. COVID-19, influenza, and other infectious diseases spread easily between people living and socialising in close quarters.

If an outbreak of COVID-19 occurs on your cruise, you may need to:

• quarantine on the ship
• disembark and follow the local rules in the state or territory or country you are in.

Before you travel, check the  Smartraveller advice on cruises . Contact your travel agent or cruise operator for specific information on their COVID-19 safety protocols.

• Coronavirus (COVID-19)

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• United States
• United Kingdom

International travel is back: How to get travel insurance that covers COVID

Smartraveller says that if you're going overseas, travel insurance is as important as a passport. Here's how to get the least fun (but very important) part of your trip sorted.

It has been 704 days, but the day has finally come – Australia's international borders have reopened.

If you're one of the many Australians planning to travel soon , it's a pretty exciting time – so let's get the boring but necessary bit out of the way first: travel insurance.

According to the Australian government's travel advice website , "If you're going overseas, travel insurance is as important as a passport. If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel."

In addition to Smartraveller's stern messaging, lots of countries have also made travel insurance mandatory . Some even require you to have a minimum amount of medical cover.

Basically, the line is, if you plan to travel, get travel insurance.

The good news is that, in addition to protection for all the usual travel mishaps (like lost luggage), travel insurance can cover you for COVID-19-related expenses as well.

What COVID-19 expenses can it cover?

We found 23 travel insurers that offer some form of COVID cover . All can reimburse you for the following:

• COVID-19 medical expenses
• Trip rearrangement costs if you, a fellow traveller or your host gets COVID and it impacts your trip
• Expenses if you're unexpectedly forced into quarantine during your trip

Some can also cover you for:

• A prepaid activity that's booked in Australia or New Zealand is shut down
• Extra child care costs if you get COVID
• The accommodation you planned to stay at if it's closed due to a COVID-19 outbreak
• Added pet care costs if you're infected and can't return home

We've made a list of the policies that come with COVID-19 benefits below.

What COVID-19 expenses won't I be covered for?

There are a few other COVID-related situations where travel insurance won't help out. These include if:

• There's a government-imposed border closure or lockdown – for example, if this is announced while you're overseas, you won't be covered for rearranging your flights.
• You go into quarantine or self-isolation that you knew about in advance.
• You ignore a doctor's advice that you aren't well enough to travel.
• You contract COVID-19 on a multi-night cruise.
• You travel to a "Do Not Travel" country. You can find these on the Smartraveller website.

These are the main COVID-related exclusions but for a full list of what's not covered, it's worth reading the product disclosure statement (PDS) before you buy. You can usually find this at the bottom of the insurer's website.

"When it comes to COVID-19 cover, we strongly encourage our customers to carefully read their policy to really understand the benefits available to them, and the circumstances in which they could realistically make a claim," said Southern Cross Travel Insurance CEO Jo McCauley.

For example, travel insurance doesn't cover PCR test costs. This is because insurance only covers unforeseen events, not ones you should have been aware of in advance.

It has been a while. Remind me, what else does travel insurance cover?

Travel insurance can also reimburse you for:

• Medical expenses including repatriation
• Cancellation fees and lost deposits
• Rescheduling flights
• Luggage and personal belongings
• Rental vehicle excess insurance
• Legal fees and penalties – for example if you accidentally injure someone

A helpful tip if something does happen

Even with travel insurance, it's worth putting some extra funds aside just in case something happens. "Having access to extra funds is a safety net before you make your insurance claim," said Finder credit card expert Amy Bradney-George.

For example, if you or your partner catch COVID and need to quarantine, you'll need to pay upfront for the hotel and rearrange your flights . Your travel insurance generally reimburses you for those costs after you've returned home.

"It's worth setting some savings aside, or keeping a credit card with you just in case – whether it's a frequent flyer card to earn more points or a low rate card to keep costs down. Just remember you'll need to make monthly payments, and when your claim is approved, you can clear the balance," added Bradney-George.

Have you ticked travel insurance off your list yet? You can compare policies on our COVID travel insurance page here .

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Click here for our travel alert about the Israel – Gaza conflict. Due to the current conflict in Ukraine, our policies exclude coverage for any trips to Russia, Ukraine or Belarus. Check out latest travel alerts here before buying a policy.

Covid-19 Travel Insurance Benefits

Are you looking for travel insurance with coverage for Covid-19 related events? InsureandGo policies provide you with several travel insurance benefits related to Covid-19. We are all excited to travel again and we want to give travellers peace of mind on their next holiday, domestically or overseas. We understand the travel landscape has changed and our travel insurance policies need to account for the new risks that travellers can face. Our Covid-19 travel insurance will give you additional coverage whenever you are ready to explore the world again.

Always visit Smartraveller to understand if your destination is marked as safe to travel. If your destination is marked as a “do not travel” on Smartraveller website, travel insurance coverage is not available. The below content is a summary only, always check the PDS  for full details and  Target Market Determination  to understand if our policies are right for you.

For more information, check the FAQ’s below or visit our help centre  here

Overseas policies

Our One-Trip and Cruise policies can cover you for the following benefits, in case your trip is impacted by Covid-19:

• Overseas medical expenses (Unlimited Coverage in our Silver and Gold policies, not included in our Bare Essentials Policies): We will pay for the necessary and reasonable medical costs incurred outside of Australia as a result of you being medically diagnosed with COVID-19. This includes emergency medical, surgical, hospital, ambulance and repatriation costs where necessary.
• you being medically diagnosed with COVID-19 after you purchase the policy,
• a close relative being diagnosed with Covid-19 after purchasing the policy and the treating doctor confirms in writing the level of infection is life threatening or
• a travelling companion being medically diagnosed with Covid-19 after purchasing the policy

We will pay up to the amount shown in the Table of benefits for:

• travel and accommodation expenses and pre-paid meal expenses which you have paid or have agreed to pay under a contract and which you cannot reasonably recover from any sources;
• the cost of excursions, tours and activities which you have paid for and which you cannot reasonably recover from any sources;
• your additional reasonable and necessary travel and accommodation expenses, incurred after departure, that are over and above what you had originally budgeted to pay, where you need to catch-up to your original schedule;

Domestic Policies

Our Single-Trip and Cruise Domestic policies also provide benefits for Covid-19 related events. Medical expenses in Australia are covered by Medicare or Private Health Insurance, so there are no medical benefits related to Covid-19 in our domestic policies. However, we provide coverage for the Cancellation or amendment of your trip if your travel plans are impacted by Covid-19.

• you being medically diagnosed with COVID-19 after you purchase the policy and you are unfit to travel
• a travelling companion being medically diagnosed with Covid-19 after purchasing the policy and they are you are unfit to travel

Most Common Questions

Am i covered if i get covid-19 overseas.

Our Silver and Gold levels of cover provide benefits for necessary and reasonable medical costs also necessary and unavoidable cancellation or amendment of your trip, related to a diagnosis of COVID-19. See the PDS for the details of what is covered. 

Am I covered for Cancellation if there is a border closure?

Unfortunately our policies exclude any claims arising from border closures, or any other claims relating to any government travel bans, “Do not travel” warnings; or mandatory quarantine or self-isolation requirements related to cross border, region or territory travel.

Can I claim for cancellation if a family member gets Covid-19?

Under the InsureandGo Silver and Gold levels of cover, we will provide coverage if it is necessary and unavoidable for you to cancel or amend your trip if a close relative in Australia is diagnosed with Covid-19 after purchasing the policy and the treating doctor confirms in writing their level of infection is life threatening.

Can I claim for cancellation if a travelling companion gets Covid-19?

Our Silver and Gold levels of cover provide benefits for necessary and unavoidable cancellation or amendment of your trip if your travelling companion is medically diagnosed with COVID-19 after purchasing the policy. See the PDS for the details of what is covered. 

Can I claim for cancellation if I get diagnosed with Covid-19 before going away?

Yes, our Silver and Gold policies provide coverage if it is necessary and unavoidable for you to cancel your trip if you are diagnosed with Covid-19 after purchasing your policy.

Am I covered for quarantine or travel delay if I get Covid-19 while overseas?

Our Gold and Silver policies provide coverage for your reasonable additional travel and accommodation expenses if you are unexpectedly forced into quarantine whilst overseas as a result of being diagnosed with Covid-19. We cannot provide cover if you are forced into quarantine for any other reason other than you being diagnosed with Covid-19.

What should I do if I get diagnosed with Covid-19 while travelling?

If you are diagnosed with Covid-19 while travelling, please contact us on  +61293333999  or email  [email protected] . Our teams will guide you through the process on what to do and how to submit your claim.

Useful Numbers

Emergency assistance:, non emergency claims:, insureandgo here's why....

• Award winning travel insurance company
• 24 hours emergency assistance
• All medical conditions considered
• Cover up to 100 years old (Cruise and Bare Essential policies cover up to 79 years of age)
• Unlimited overseas medical expenses cover
• Unlimited cancellation in our Gold policies

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International Travel Insurance

Before heading overseas, prepare for the unexpected with our international travel cover

Win 1-of-5 $1,000 Visa gift cards

Buy a travel insurance policy and apply the EASTER24 promo code by 30 April 2024 for your chance to win.

Excl. Vic. Strict eligibility, T&C apply . Always consider the PDS and TMD .

You could save on your travel insurance

You could save up to 5% on a new travel policy if you already have insurance with us 1 .

Choose the cover that’s right for you

Choose between our International Essentials, Comprehensive and Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance plans to make sure you get the cover you need.

What's included

With Essentials and Comprehensive plans (cover varies depending on the plan you choose)

Cancellation

If your trip is cancelled or rescheduled unexpectedly, you can claim non-refundable travel and accommodation costs (limits vary).

Medical expenses

Cover for approved medical and hospital expenses incurred overseas (up to $10 million with Essentials, and unlimited 2 with Comprehensive).

COVID-19 protection

Protect your travel plans against the impacts of COVID-19 (limits and conditions apply).

24-hour emergency hotline

Speak to our expert, multilingual team at any time, from anywhere in the world.

Luggage and personal items

Lost, stolen or damaged luggage and belongings are covered, including travel documents and credit cards (up to $5,000 with Essentials, and up to $12,000 with Comprehensive).

Accidental disability

If you choose Comprehensive and someone on your policy is permanently disabled as a result of an accident, they may be eligible for a lump sum payment (up to $30,000).

Rental vehicle excess

We'll help cover the insurance excess on your rental if it gets damaged or stolen (up to $5,000 with Essentials, and up to $10,000 with Comprehensive).

Personal liability

Your personal and settlement costs are covered in certain situations if you accidentally injure a person or damage their property (up to $1 million with Essentials, and up to $2.5 million with Comprehensive).

Accidental death

We'll pay a lump sum to you or your estate if anyone on your policy dies as a result of an accident (up to $10,000 with Essentials, and up to $30,000 with Comprehensive).

Optional extras

Add these when you get a quote

Skiing and winter sports

Add cover for things like damaged ski equipment, or approved hospital and medical expenses if you're injured on the slopes.

Motorcycle and moped cover

Add cover if you plan on riding or being a passenger on a motorcycle or moped.

Valuable items

Add extra cover for special items like your watch, jewellery or camera.

Cruise cover

Add cover for certain unforeseen cancellations, as well as approved medical and evacuation costs if you get sick or injured.

Annual multi-trip

Take as many trips in a year as you want, all on the one policy. All our annual multi-trip plans are Comprehensive, giving you our highest level travel insurance.

You can select cover for up to 30, 45 or 60 days per trip. That way, you can travel as often as you like throughout the year (up to your chosen limit).

To be covered by an annual multi-trip plan, your destination must be over 250km from your home. Or, if your destination is less than 250km from your home, your trip must include at least one night of paid accommodation (like in a hotel or Airbnb).

Not included

There are some things we don’t cover

Known events

We don't cover incidents due to things you should know about, like a pandemic, or if you travel against warnings or official advice.

Policy booklets

For full details including limits, conditions and exclusions, read these policy documents

Staying in Australia? You can still get travel cover

With over 90 years' experience, we know how to protect the things you care about.

We’re here to give you the emergency assistance you need, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

You could save up to 5% on a new policy if you already have insurance with us 1

Call us on 131 123  to make a claim

Have an International Travel Insurance question? We can help

Does my travel insurance cover covid-19 claims.

To see if your situation will be covered, read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) .

What should I do if my personal items are lost or stolen while I’m overseas?

If your personal items (like your mobile phone) have been lost or stolen:

• Try to get a loss report within 7 days from any relevant people or organisations (like the police or your transport provider)
• When you get home, you can send us any relevant documents online by lodging a claim .

We'll update you on how your claim is progressing within 10 working days.

What’s a travel excess and how much is it?

An excess is an amount you may need to pay towards a claim. Different levels of excesses may apply, depending on the policy you choose.

For full details, read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) .

How long do I have to make a travel claim?

Most claims can be made at any time, but sometimes you'll need our approval before you incur certain costs. Generally, you should make a claim as soon as possible, but if you're unsure, get in touch with us.

Find out how to make a claim

Will I be covered for cancelling my trip?

All our travel policies include cover for cancellation or rescheduling under certain circumstances. The level of cover depends on the amount you select.

To check what's covered with your policy, read the PDS .

Are children covered when they’re travelling with me?

Children are included in the sum insured of their parent, grandparent or legal guardian's policy if they're:

• Under the age of 21
• Identified on your policy document
• Travelling with you.

When travelling without a parent, grandparent or legal guardian, children need a separate insurance policy. This policy needs to be purchased by a parent, grandparent or legal guardian.

Am I covered if I make a booking with a company that goes out of business?

No, you’re not covered if a company you’ve made a booking with goes out of business.

If a company goes out of business, you might be eligible for a payment under Australian Prudential Regulation Authority’s (APRA) Financial Claims Scheme.

For information about the scheme:

• Visit the APRA website , or 
• Call APRA on 1300 558 849 .

Things you should know

The existing customer discount is only available for existing NRMA Insurance customers. We may withdraw this offer at any time.

Cover will not exceed 12 months from the onset of the illness or injury.

NRMA Travel Insurance issued by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited (ABN 13 000 296 640, AFSL 232507), arranged and administered by Cover-More Insurance Services Pty Ltd ABN 95003 114 145, AFSL 241713 and promoted and distributed by Insurance Australia Limited ABN 11 000 016 722, AFS Licence No. 227681 trading as NRMA Insurance as well as by its authorised distributors. Limits, sub-limits, exclusions, terms and conditions (including eligibility criteria) apply. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider your own needs and the Combined FSG/PDS to decide if this product is right for you. For information on the Target Market and Target Market Determinations visit Target Market Determinations (TMD) . If you decide to purchase NRMA Travel Insurance from NRMA Insurance or its distributors they receive a commission, for more information please refer to NRMA Insurance’s FSG .

• Get a quote
• Make a claim
• Membership and roadside assistance
• Download the app

Travel insurance is adapting to a world with COVID-19 — but there'll be a catch

If extended lockdowns haven't been enough to get you fantasising about your next overseas trip, maybe last week's news last that international borders will start reopening in November has done the trick.

But when international travel resumes it's not going to look the same as before, and COVID-19 has brought new risks that could impact you when you jet off abroad.

Here's how travel insurance has changed since the international border closed.

Will travel insurance cover COVID-19?

As with travel insurance before the pandemic, it will depend on the policy you select.

Because most international travel from Australia has been suspended since March last year, most Australians haven't had to worry about what might happen to them if they contract COVID-19 overseas.

When COVID-19 first shut down global travel, many Australians weren't covered because most insurance policies exclude pandemics and epidemics.

But now some insurers have begun offering COVID-19 travel policies.

If you get sick during a holiday and have to isolate (or worse, go to hospital for medical treatment) that could have flow-on effects for accommodation, transit and the people you're travelling with — not to mention potential hospital bills.

COVID-19 cover aims to provide a level of protection for those circumstances, but those policies won't cover everything, including a pretty big reason for cancelled plans across Australia.

"It is impossible for insurers to price the risk associated with border closures and travel bans," a spokeswoman form the Insurance Council of Australia said.

That means policies are unlikely to cover you if your plans are cancelled or postponed due to state or international border closures, which can change quickly and with little warning.

Jodi Bird from consumer advocacy group CHOICE said there could be other ways for you to protect your money if your trip was impacted by border closures.

"The main way to make sure that you're covered due to border closures is up front make sure that you're booking flexible bookings … only book for those flexible accommodation locations," he said, noting it was always harder to cancel a booking once you'd locked in dates.

"If you have to cancel, ask the actual provider if you can get your money back — a refund or a credit. If there's no remedy there, then the next stage is essentially to raise it … with your state consumer affairs body."

Travel insurance can be affected by the advisory status of your destination, as classified by the Australian government's Smartraveller service.

Usually, insurance won't cover you if you go to places listed as "do not travel" by Smartraveller.

Currently, every country in the world except for New Zealand is listed as "do not travel", but that will change when international borders reopen from next month.

"Travel insurance will then be available with some COVID-19-related cover to these countries," the spokeswoman for the Australian Insurance Council said.

"Travel insurance without COVID-19 cover is currently available from some insurers for international travel for those travelling with exemptions to Do Not Travel countries."

She also said insurance, even without COVID-19 cover, remained an important consideration for international travellers.

Mr Bird said the two biggest things to look out for when getting travel insurance in the age of COVID-19 were:

• Make sure your destination is definitely covered by your policy. Most policies won't cover you if you go to a country the government advises against visiting
• Make sure your policy explicitly covers COVID-19 because some don't

Will you have to pay more for travel insurance?

Mr Bird said it was difficult to predict how prices could change in the wake of COVID-19, given the travel insurance industry had been disrupted.

"It's hard to tell how COVID's going to affect insurers' premiums, so it is possible that you would have to pay more for that kind of cover," he said, saying generally: "The more you pay, the more you'll be covered for."

A lack of competition could also be pushing up prices, as many providers have stopped offering travel insurance in the wake of the pandemic.

"There are a lot less travel insurers than there were a year and a half ago," Mr Bird said.

"It could actually mean that … consumers might have to pay more."

• X (formerly Twitter)

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International Travel Insurance

Planning an overseas holiday? Whether you’re embarking on an around-the-world adventure or in search of some rest and relaxation, you can enjoy added peace of mind during your trip with RACV International Travel Insurance.

I'm interested in...

•   COVID-19 Benefits
•   Travel alerts
•   Getting a quote
•   Policy documents

Travel insurance made simple

Planning an overseas trip is an exciting time. You can spend hours choosing your destination, booking your accommodation, and mapping your route. However, choosing the best travel insurance for you doesn’t need to take hours of research. RACV International Travel Insurance policies provide a choice of three levels of cover to choose from. You can even choose RACV Annual Multi-Trip coverage if you plan on taking more than one holiday in the next year.

COVID-19 Benefits

RACV Travel Insurance now includes limited COVID-19 cover # on RACV Comprehensive Travel Insurance.

#Limits and sub-limits apply. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.

RACV Members get 15% off RACV Travel Insurance

Choice of cover for your holiday

Because each overseas adventure and adventurer is different - your international travel insurance policy needs to be too. Choose from three policies with different levels of cover at different prices, to suit your next overseas holiday. All RACV international policies also come with overseas medical and hospital cover so that assistance is available when you're far from home. 

Terms, limits and conditions apply. Please read the  Product Disclosure Statement  for more information.

Cover for the unexpected

Things don’t always go to plan on overseas expeditions. Whether your trip is disrupted by an event like an unexpected natural disaster or stolen passport, RACV International Travel Insurance lets you choose the cover that suits your needs. 

Find out more about RACV Travel Insurance for cruises

Additional peace of mind on your next overseas adventure

If you’ve scheduled several trips on your calendar for the next 12 months, an annual travel insurance policy could be suitable for you.  Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance gives you and your family cover for a full year – on trips where you travel more than 250km from home.

Whether you’re travelling solo or with your family, for fun or for business, an annual travel policy can provide cover for multiple trips per year.

Why choose RACV International Travel Insurance?

24 hour assistance.

The team of emergency assistance experts are available to provide support 24-hours a day. They can help you find the resources you need to make your way home safely. Help is at hand. 

Overseas medical cover

Anyone can fall ill or sustain injuries while travelling abroad. By choosing to insure your trip through RACV Travel Insurance, cover is available for overseas medical on all international travel insurance policies, as well as cover for hospital and dental.*

Cover for cancellation fees & lost deposits

In addition to being covered for illnesses and injuries, certain policyholders can also claim for unforeseeable situations, such as missing luggage and lost deposits. 1

Important information: 1. Cancellation fees and lost deposits cover not covered on Basics policy, while limits apply for Essentials. *Terms, limits and conditions apply. Please read the Product Disclosure Statement  for more information about medical, hospital and dental cover.

Frequent traveller? Find out more about Annual Multi-Trip Insurance.

RACV Travel Insurance International Benefits

When it comes to selecting the right international travel insurance policy for your next overseas adventure, you need to ensure that the policy you choose has all the inclusions you need. Whether you’re seeking overseas dental and emergency expenses, or a policy which covers your golf clubs, RACV Travel Insurance has a range of policies to choose from.

RACV Travel Insurance offers four international travel insurance policies; Comprehensive, Essentials, Basic, and Annual Multi-Trip. Each policy offers a different level of cover. Discover what’s included in each policy, below.

Please read the  Product Disclosure Statement  carefully to understand what this policy covers.

RACV Travel Insurance now includes limited COVID-19 cover #  on RACV Comprehensive Travel Insurance.

#Limits and sub-limits apply. Refer to the  Product Disclosure Statement  for full details.

Summary of Cover

Comprehensive (per adult), essentials (per adult), basics (per adult), annual multi-trip (per adult).

Section 1 Cancellation Fees and Lost Deposits

1A: Unforeseen Circumstances#

$unlimited^^

Not Applicable

1B: Death, Injury or Illness of Your Relative, Your Travelling Companion or Your Travelling Companion’s Relative#

1C: Emergency Worker Leave+ (Sub Limit)

Not applicable

Section 2: Overseas Medical, Hospital, Cash in Hospital, Dental and Related Expenses

2A: Ski and Winter Sports Overseas Medical and Hospital

$unlimited**

$Unlimited**

2C: Overseas Dental#+ (Sub Limit)

2G: Funeral Expenses Overseas*+ (Sub Limit)

Section 3: Luggage and Personal Money

3B: Travel Documents+ (Sub Limit)

3C: Luggage Delay+ (Sub Limit)

3E: Personal Money+ (Sub Limit)

Section 4: Emergency Expenses

4A: Emergency Expenses

4B: Resumption of Travel+ (Sub Limit)

4C: Emergency Expenses for Death, Injury or Illness of Your Relative, Your Travelling Companion or  Your Travelling Companion’s Relative

$unlimited^^**

4D: Special Events

Section 5–24

5: Accidental Death*

6: Accidental Disability*

7: Your Legal Liability

$10,000,000

8: Rental Car Excess

9: Loss of Income

10: Financial Default

11: Domestic Pets^

12: Domestic Services ^

13: Travel Delay

14: Hijack and Kidnap*

Ski and Winter Sports optional add-ons

15: Ski Overseas Medical and Hospital

16: Equipment Hire^

17: Ski Pack^

18: Piste Closure^

19: Bad Weather and Avalanche^

20: Lift Pass*

21: COVID-19 Overseas Medical and Hospital and Emergency Expenses#

22: COVID-19  Cancellation Fees and Lost Deposits

$3,500 combined limit

23: COVID-19  Additional Expenses# and Special Events

24: COVID-19 Travel Delay#

*#Limits and Sub Limits apply. See pages 10-23 for details. ^^$unlimited means that generally there is no cap on the maximum dollar amount which may be paid out for this benefit, subject to the specific terms and conditions, sub-limits and exclusions that apply to this benefit. **$unlimited means that generally there is no cap on the maximum dollar amount which may be paid out for this benefit, subject to the specific terms and conditions, sub-limits and exclusions that apply to this benefit. This benefit covers reasonable overseas medical and hospital costs as a result of an injury (including arising from a Terrorist Act) or illness occurring which first shows itself during Your Period of Insurance. Benefits may be paid up to 12 months from the time You received treatment for the injury or illness, but only for reasonable expenses incurred during that time. All medical treatments must be provided by Your Treating Doctor or Our Consulting Medical Officer. You must notify Us as soon as practicable of Your admittance to hospital. *This cover is per person listed in Your Policy. ^This cover is per policy. +This Sub Limit is a subset of this overall policy benefit section. *** Sub Limit and Policy Limit may apply – please refer to sections 1B and 4C in the PDS The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations . For copies, visit racv.com.au . RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to the PDS . Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd AR 001243563 is an authorised representative of the issuer and receives commission for each policy sold or renewed.

Luggage item limits

Planning on taking your new camera or laptop on your next overseas holiday? Be sure to check whether its value falls within the policy limit shown below. This will ensure the items you’re taking on holiday are adequately covered by your insurance plan.

Policy benefits

Annual multi-trip (per adult).

Medical Devices

If you're planning on driving overseas, apply online for your International Driving Permit with RACV

Policy options and add-ons

No two overseas trips are the same, with RACV Travel Insurance, you can choose from the below policy options and add-ons.

Excess Options: you can choose to vary Your Excess, which is the amount you must pay if you have a claim. The Excess You choose will either increase or reduce your Premium. The Plan Type you select has the following Excess ranges:

• Single Trip International policies $0, $100, $250, $500 or $1,000
• Annual Multi-Trip policy is $0, $100 or $250
• Domestic $0 or $100

Your Excess will be shown on your Certificate of Insurance.

Ski and winter sports cover

IMPORTANT : you must purchase Ski and Winter Sports Cover in order to be covered for any Ski and Winter sports benefits listed under Ski and winter sports optional ad-on.

Not all winter sports are covered.

Ski includes snow skiing and snowboarding.

Winter Sports includes. leisure bigfoot Skiing, cat Skiing, cross country Skiing (along a designated cross country ski route only), glacier Skiing, ice hockey, ice skating, luging (on ice only), mono Skiing, Off-piste Skiing (with a professional guide only), recreational Skiing, snowmobiling and tobogganing.

It does include any of the above activities when they are undertaken for competition, including training or practising purposes.

If you do purchase this additional coverage, it is a condition of cover that you act in a responsible way to protect yourself and that:

 Specifically, the activity must:

• be conducted through a commercial operator; and
• be available to the general public; and
• not be considered Extreme Risk; and
• not require any special skills, pre-fitness training program prior to the participation of the activity, or a high level of fitness to undertake.

Annual Multi-Trip Plan (per Adult)

15: Ski and Winter Sports Overseas Medical and Hospital

16: Equipment Hire^

17: Ski Pack^

18: Piste Closure^

19: Bad Weather and Avalanche^

20: Lift Pass*

#Limits and sub limits apply. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.

 ^^ $unlimited means that generally there is no cap on the maximum dollar amount which may be paid out for this benefit, subject to the specific terms and conditions, sub-limits and exclusions that apply to this benefit.

 ** $unlimited means that generally there is no cap on the maximum dollar amount which may be paid out for this benefit, subject to the specific terms and conditions, sub-limits and exclusions that apply to this benefit. This benefit covers reasonable overseas medical and hospital costs as a result of an injury (including that arising from a Terrorist Act) or illness occurring which first shows itself during Your Period of Insurance. Benefits may be paid up to 12 months from the time You received treatment for the injury or illness, but only for reasonable expenses incurred during that time. Medical treatments must be provided by a legally qualified medical practitioner. You must notify us as soon as practicable of Your admittance to hospital.

*This cover is per person listed in Your Policy

 ^This cover is per policy.

Cruise cover

If you require cover for a Cruise, please select the Cruise option when purchasing a policy. This will determine the Premium you pay.

Cover for international river cruising is included automatically and you do not need to select the Cruise option.

Cruise Cover is required for all Ocean Voyages of more than one night.

RACV Member discount

Looking for ways to save on insurance costs so you have more money left over for your trip? RACV Members are entitled to a 15% discount on RACV International Travel Insurance policies.

RACV Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance plan

This provides year-round cover for your travel provided you are 250km from your Home.  When you purchase your policy please include the countries you are travelling. This will determine the premium you pay.

Please refer to RACV Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance for conditions associated with Annual Multi-Trip plan.

Travel alerts, claims and policy documents

Travel alerts.

Think carefully before visiting countries/regions with DFAT travel advisory of "Do Not Travel", RACV Travel Insurance won't cover you for these destinations.

• Smart traveller
• Recent travel alerts
• COVID-19 travel advice & FAQs

Review or manage your policy

For full details on how you’re covered, read the RACV Travel Insurance Product Disclosure Statement.

• Make a claim
• Find a policy document
• Contact us on 13 13 29

Related Links

Save more as an racv member.

International Sim Card

Airport Parking

International Driving Permit

The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations . For copies, visit racv.com.au. Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd AR 001243563 is an authorised representative of the issuer and receives commission for each policy sold or renewed. RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to the PDS.

Travel Insurance Sales 13 13 29

Emergency assistance 02 8055 1699

Claims 1300 207 387

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Compare international travel insurance

Want to get cover for a trip overseas? Here at Mozo we compare multiple international travel insurance policies from a number of providers. You can also read through a long list of frequently asked questions, from what international travel insurance is to travelling overseas during the pandemic. Your travel insurance journey begins here!

International travel insurance comparisons on Mozo - last updated 29 March 2024

Mozo experts choice awards won:

• Exceptional Value Ski Travel Insurance - 2024
• Exceptional Value Essential Travel Insurance - 2024
• Exceptional Value Comprehensive Travel Insurance - 2024

International Travel Insurance

Covid medical cover, covid cancellation cover, overseas hospital, cancellation cover.

Get protection in a few simple steps with Freely travel insurance all in the palm of your hand. Freely Travel offers 24/7 emergency and medical support, 24/7 customer service. Plus, you can tailor your policy so you only pay for what you need, and adapt your cover in near real time. Add-ons such as car rental excess, snow sports or other activities also available. Receive 10% off your travel insurance policy with promo code: MOZO10. T&Cs apply, go to site for full detail.

Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply to any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. These terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits could affect the level of benefits and cover available under any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. Please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and the Target Market Determination on the provider's website for further information before making any decisions about an insurance product.

To see the Pre-existing Conditions and Activities covered by this policy please visit our detailed page about this product.

Comprehensive

Enjoy unlimited medical cover and 24/7 emergency assistance services when you travel. Get unlimited cover for cancellation fees and prepaid travel expenses. Cover for luggage and travel documents. $5,000,000 personal liability cover.

Backed by the NIB, one of Australia’s largest travel insurance providers, Travel Insurance Saver brings you peace of mind on your travels. Compare three tiers of insurance cover, featuring benefits like 24 hour emergency assistance, emergency medical cover, luggage cover, cancellation cover and more.

• Exceptional Value Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance - 2024

International Comprehensive Single

Enjoy the security of single trip cover on your next holiday with Southern Cross Travel Insurance. Get 24 hour emergency assistance, cover for cancelling or changing your journey before you leave, protection for lost, stolen or damaged goods as well as cover to replace lost or stolen cash, banks or travel documents. Be in to win 1 of 5 $1,000 cash prizes! T&Cs Apply. Offer ends 30 September 2023.

• Exceptional Quality Travel Insurance - 2024
• Travel Insurance Company of the Year - 2024

Be covered for international overseas and medical expenses. Emergency medical assistance 24 hours/365 days a year. Cover for cancellation fees and lost deposits. Cover for luggage and personal money. Dependents covered free of charge (conditions apply). Limited COVID cover available. Cancellation cover for COVID claims limited to $3,500.

Get the security of unlimited medical cover and 24/7 emergency assistance services when you travel. Get cover for cancellation fees and prepaid travel expenses. Cover for luggage and travel documents. $2,500,000 personal liability cover.

Australia Post International Comprehensive Travel Insurance covers overseas medical expenses, cancellation costs and more (T&Cs apply). Optional extras like cover for existing medical conditions and winter sports available. 24/7 emergency support. Get a quote in minutes. Reduce your premium with variable excess. Policies may not be available to all travellers. Australian Postal Corporation ABN 28 864 970 579 (AR No 338646) is the distributor of Australia Post Travel Insurance.

Know that you have some protection for your holidays with Fast Cover's worldwide 24-hour emergency assistance. Cover is available for emergency medical and hospital expenses, cancellation costs, lost luggage and more. 25-day money back guarantee when you buy a policy and provided that you have not started your trip, made a claim or used your policy to obtain a visa. Cancellation cover for COVID claims limited to $5,000.Please refer to Fast Cover’s PDS for more information on what their Comprehensive Travel Policy offers as well as terms, conditions, exclusions and limits that apply.

Covid Basic

Get cover for cancellation or trip interruption due to Covid-19 only up to $4,000 (T&Cs apply). Emergency Assistance team is available 24/7 to support you in the event of an emergency while travelling. Hospital benefit and confinement of $50 per day (up to a maximum of $500). Cover for funeral expenses abroad up to $10,000. Exclusions apply.

Medical Only

Travel with peace of mind with unlimited medical cover and 24/7 emergency assistance services. Get cover for overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses. $2,500,000 personal liability cover.

Enjoy the benefits of unlimited emergency medical treatment abroad for up to 12 months. Funeral expenses abroad for up to $20,000. Optional cover for cancellation or trip interruption (T&Cs apply). Emergency Assistance team is available 24/7 to support you in the event of an emergency while travelling.

Standard Saver

Know that you have some protection for your holidays with Fast Cover’s worldwide 24-hour emergency assistance. Cover is available for Emergency Medical and Hospital Expenses, Trip Cancellation, Lost Luggage and more. 25-day money back guarantee when you buy a policy and provided that you have not started your trip, made a claim or used your policy to obtain a visa. Cancellation cover for COVID claims limited to $3,000. Please refer to Fast Cover’s PDS for more information on what their Standard Saver Travel Policy offers, as well as terms, conditions, exclusions and limits that apply.

Covid Essentials

Travel with peace of mind with cover for cancellation or trip interruption due to Covid-19 only up to $4,000 (T&Cs apply). Emergency Assistance team is available 24/7 to support you in the event of an emergency while travelling. Hospital benefit and confinement of $50 per day (up to a maximum of $500). Cover for funeral expenses abroad up to $10,000. Exclusions apply.

Discovery Ultimate

Unlimited emergency medical treatment abroad for up to 12 months. Funeral expenses abroad for up to $20,000. Optional cover for cancellation or trip interruption (T&Cs apply). Emergency Assistance team is available 24/7 to support you in the event of an emergency while travelling.

International Comprehensive Annual Multi Trip Single

Enjoy the security of annual trip cover on your next holiday with Southern Cross Travel Insurance. Get 24 hour emergency assistance, cover for cancelling or changing your journey before you leave, protection for lost, stolen or damaged goods as well as cover to replace lost or stolen cash, banks or travel documents.

Know that you have some protection for your holidays with Fast Cover’s worldwide 24-hour emergency assistance. Cover is available for emergency medical and hospital expenses and more. Cover for luggage and personal effects is optional under the Basics policy, so if you wish to include cover under the luggage and personal effects benefit, you will need to choose it at policy purchase otherwise there will be no cover. 25-day money back guarantee when you buy a policy and provided that you have not started your trip, made a claim or used your policy to obtain a visa. Please refer to Fast Cover’s PDS for more information on what their Basics Travel Policy offers as well as terms, conditions, exclusions and limits that apply.

Bare Essentials

International comprehensive family.

Enjoy the security of single trip or annual trip cover on your next holiday with Southern Cross Travel Insurance. Get 24 hour emergency assistance, cover for cancelling or changing your journey before you leave, protection for lost, stolen or damaged goods as well as cover to replace lost or stolen cash, banks or travel documents.

International Comprehensive Annual Multi Trip Family

Annual multi-trip.

^See information about the Mozo Experts Choice Travel insurance Awards

* Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply to any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. These terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits could affect the level of benefits and cover available under any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. Please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and the Target Market Determination on the provider's website for further information before making any decisions about an insurance product.

See policy details from these travel insurance providers

Travel insurance resources

Reviews, news, tips and guides to help find the best travel insurance for you.

What is international travel insurance?

International travel insurance is designed to give you peace of mind while travelling outside of Australia. Most providers offer a basic international travel insurance policy or a comprehensive international travel insurance policy. 

Basic cover will often include things like cover for medical emergencies and personal liability, while a comprehensive policy will include that plus cover for cancellations, trip delays, lost luggage and rental car excess.

Coronavirus and travelling internationally - what you need to know

Right now travelling overseas is nothing like taking an international holiday pre-Coronavirus (Covid:19). There’s more paperwork involved for a start, and rules around vaccination and quarantine can vary from country to country.

While some countries are allowing vaccinated travellers to enter without quarantining, others are not. Although even countries that do not have mandatory quarantine for vaccinated travellers will likely still have some rules. For example, most countries require international travellers to take a Covid-19 test either before or just after entering the country.

Before booking a ticket overseas, you may even want to make a checklist for yourself. Here are a few ideas as to what might be on it:

Read the health advice for the destination country

Get International Covid-19 Vaccination Certificate

Check passport is in date 

Get relevant visas/documents

Know what the rules are for entering the country

Book a Covid-19 test before departing, or on arrival 

Tell bank about the trip

Pack lots of masks and hand sanitiser!

Remember masks are still mandated on most airlines, whether you are vaccinated or not.

International travel insurance cover for Covid related claims 

Right now, many travel insurance providers do not provide insurance cover for Covid-related events. Although, there are a few providers that will cover hospitalisation or cancellation costs due to Covid-19. Our comparison tables highlight whether this cover option is available with each insurance policy. 

Of course, you might want to get cover for things like quarantine costs or border closures and not every travel insurance company will offer these. This is why now, more than ever it is important that prior to purchasing international travel insurance, you understand what will and won’t be covered under the policy for the destination you are planning on travelling to, especially in relation to Coronavirus. This means reading the product disclosure statement so that you know the risks involved.   

What does international travel insurance cover?

International travel insurance provides cover for emergency situations, cancellations and delays that might occur while travelling outside of Australia. Usually providers will offer two types of international travel insurance: basic (sometimes called essential) travel insurance and comprehensive travel insurance.

Exactly what is covered with an international travel insurance policy will vary depending on each individual plan. Basic travel insurance will usually cover things like emergency medical expenses, additional expenses and personal liability. Comprehensive plans will cover these instances, plus things such as cancellation costs, trip delays, lost luggage, lost travel documents, rental car excess and loss of income.

According to smartraveller.org.au , travel insurance is usually only available for countries classified as either advice level one or two. But Smart Traveller has four advice levels that go from level one, ‘exercise normal safety precautions’, to level four, ‘do not travel.’ 

What are the risks of travelling overseas without insurance?

Travelling overseas without insurance could see you out of pocket, should any last minute cancellations or emergencies happen. Besides financial consequences, you may be denied medical treatment without cover!

Smart Traveller highlights paying your medical bills. It says that if you’re treated in an emergency situation, a failure to pay your medical bills could lead to arrest, prevention from leaving the country until bills are paid, or even being sued by the hospital after you have left. 

Regardless of whether or not you find yourself in these situations, travel insurance can provide some peace of mind. It’s also handy to know that Australia currently has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with 11 countries. These are:

The Netherlands

New Zealand

The Republic of Ireland

United Kingdom

In the above countries Australians can access necessary healthcare in an emergency situation. Although, you may still have to pay for treatment and the agreement should not be viewed as a replacement for travel insurance.

How much does international travel insurance cost?

How much travel insurance costs will vary for each individual. Premiums are generally based on factors such as the destination, how long the trip will be, how old travellers are, the type of cover you opt for (basic or comprehensive) and what you intend to do while overseas.

When deciding whether to get international travel insurance, weigh up the cost to pay for the premium against the potential costs that could occur should something go wrong. 

What travel alerts and restrictions are there for international travel?

On 1 November 2021, the Australian government lifted the global travel ban in place from March 2020. This change means that fully vaccinated Australians and permanent residents can now leave the country without applying for an exemption. 

Countries can be classified as one of four travel advice levels. These are:

Level 1: Exercise normal safety precautions

Level 2: Exercise a high degree of caution

Level 3: Reconsider your need to travel

Level 4: Do not travel

Generally there will be more restrictions in place for Australians who are not fully vaccinated or do not have a vaccination exemption. Depending on where you are travelling to you may be required to provide a vaccination certificate, as well as a negative Covid-19 test taken before or after arriving in the country. Some countries may also still require vaccinated travellers to quarantine in a hotel or at home.

How to make a claim - key information you might need

Most insurance companies will give the option to lodge a claim either online via their website, over the phone or by email. To make a travel insurance claim, you will likely need to have quite a few details handy. These will be things like:

Your travel insurance policy number

Personal details (name, home address etc.)

Travel itinerary

Details of the incident (time and date)

Supporting documents (receipts, invoices etc.)

Bank account details

It may also be a good idea to take note of your provider’s emergency contact number, in case you need to call them urgently while overseas.

What’s the best travel insurance?

Finding the best travel insurance policy doesn’t be difficult. That’s why in 2023 Mozo will announce the Mozo Experts Choice Travel Insurance Awards to help you find one that complements your personal needs and budget quicker. Mozo’s expert judges will analyse hundreds of travel insurance policies to find the best value, comprehensive and quality insurances.  

In the meantime, see if you can find your own winner with our  best travel insurance  hub guide.

More FAQs on international travel insurance

What information do i need to supply to get a quote for international travel insurance.

When getting a quote for travel insurance, providers will most likely want to know:

Where you are travelling to

What dates you are travelling

Who is travelling (i.e. how many people, whether you have any dependents etc.)

The age of those travelling

Age limits may also apply for a number of policies. For example, some providers may not offer travel insurance to people over 75. More detail on this below.

When should I take out travel insurance for my upcoming trip?

Generally a good time to take out travel insurance is after you have booked and confirmed flights and accommodation. The reason for doing so is because it will mean you will be then covered for any cancellations. Taking out your policy early doesn’t affect the price you’ll pay so it is best to get cover as soon as your holiday plans are confirmed. 

Just keep in mind that you must purchase travel insurance before you depart Australia. 

Can I get travel insurance if I’m pregnant?

Yes, though there are some exceptions to this. Travel insurance will usually only cover pregnancies up to a certain stage of the pregnancy - typically around 23 to 32 weeks. Many insurance companies won’t cover actual childbirth while overseas - or IVF pregnancies or if you’ve had pregnancy complications in the past.

We recommend reading the product disclosure statement thoroughly, so you know exactly what is covered and what is not, before taking out a travel insurance policy if you are pregnant.

What’s the maximum age I can get travel insurance?

Some insurance policies may have a maximum age limit on who can get cover. Generally basic international travel insurance policies will only be available to people aged under 75 years of age. 

For comprehensive international travel insurance policies the age limit could be higher, some even offer cover for up to 100 years.  

Some policies may also have age limits that apply to certain conditions, such as diabetes and asthma. It is a good idea to read the full product disclosure statement before taking out a policy, to make sure you are aware of what age limits apply.

Can I get travel insurance cover if I have a pre-existing condition?

Travel insurance policies may not cover pre-existing conditions or they might charge you an extra premium to get cover. 

A pre-existing condition is any known medical condition you already have before travelling. This means you may not be able to make a claim for any expenses relating to a pre-existing condition.

Pre-existing conditions can be conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart conditions and so on. We recommend reading the product disclosure statement in full before taking out a travel insurance plan.

What’s a multi-trip policy?

A multi-trip travel insurance policy is an insurance plan that is designed to provide cover for frequent flyers over a 12-month period. Generally multi-trip travel insurance is paid annually and will provide cover for travel to multiple destinations throughout the year.

Check out our multi-trip travel insurance information page on how this type of cover works.

Should I get travel insurance for travel around Australia?

Domestic travel insurance can be a good idea if you want to avoid being hit with last minute cancellation costs or expenses incurred from lost luggage. Typically this type of travel insurance provides cover for things like cancellations, lost luggage and personal liability.

Read more about what domestic travel insurance covers over at Mozo’s domestic travel insurance information page. 

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Who we are and how we get paid

Our goal at Mozo is to help you make smart financial decisions and our award-winning comparison tools and services are provided free of charge. As a marketplace business, we do earn money from advertising.

We do not compare all brands in the market, or all products offered by all brands. At times certain brands or products may not be available or offered to you. If you proceed with a travel insurance policy through Mozo, Mozo may receive a referral fee.

Important information on terms, conditions and sub-limits

Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply to any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. These terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits could affect the level of benefits and cover available under any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. Please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and the Target Market Determination on the provider's website for further information before making any decisions about an insurance product.

International Comprehensive Travel Insurance

About International Comprehensive Travel Insurance

International Comprehensive Travel Insurance covers overseas medical expenses, cancellation costs and more. Plus, choose from a range of optional extras:

• Choose your excess
• Increase your single item limit for personal effects
• Increase your rental car excess cover
• Add cover for winter sports
• Add cover for existing medical conditions
• Add cover if you plan to ride a motorcycle or moped

COVID-19 benefits for domestic and international plans 1,5

• Get a quote in minutes
• Great value international and domestic plans
• From comprehensive to basic cover, you choose which benefits matter most
• 24/7 support means help is only a phone call away
• Reduce your premium with variable excess

More information

• 5 myths about travel insurance
• How comprehensive is comprehensive travel insurance?
• Do you really need travel insurance?
• Cruise travel insurance

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Frequently asked questions

1   Medical and dental cover will not exceed 12 months from onset.

2 Sub-limits apply. 

3 Cover chosen applies per policy.

4 Maximum liability collectively for Loss of income, Accidental Death and Disability is $25,000 on the International Comprehensive Plan.

5 Limits, sub-limits, conditions, exclusions and fees apply.

Policies may not be available to all travellers. Australian Postal Corporation (ABN 28 864 970 579, AR No 338646) is the distributor of Australia Post Travel Insurance and is an Authorised Representative of Australia Post Services Pty Ltd (ABN 67 002 599 340 AFSL 457551). Travel insurance products are underwritten by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited (ABN 13 000 296 640, AFSL 232507). Consider your financial situation, needs and objectives and read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination  before deciding to buy this insurance. For information on the Target Market and Target Market Determination for these products, please contact us on 1300 728 015, email [email protected] .

Australia Post acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate, live and gather as ​a team. We recognise their continuing connection ​to land, water and community. We pay respect to Elders ​past, present and emerging.

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• Annual Travel Insurance
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Travel Insurance Quotes

Please Note - If you are cruising around Australia you need to select Pacific. With Regions, variances can apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. You are not required to enter stop-over countries if your stop-over is less than 48 hours.

If you don’t know where you’re traveling to within the next 12 months, choose Worldwide to ensure you’re covered no matter where you go. If you’re travelling to multiple countries choose the region that you are visiting that is furthest away (excluding stopovers less than 48 hours). In most cases you will be covered for the closer regions as well. For example, if you choose Europe, you will also be covered in the Middle East, Asia and Pacific.

Worldwide means anywhere in the world

Americas means USA, Canada, South America, Latin America, Hawaii and the Caribbean

Europe means all European countries, including UK

Middle East refers to the area from Syria to Yemen; Egypt to Iran

Asia generally means Asia and the Indian subcontinent. For some insurers this excludes Japan*

Pacific means the South West Pacific, Australia and Indonesia/Bali*. Select Pacific for domestic cruises in New Zealand waters

New Zealand means domestic travel within New Zealand only

*Note: Variances apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. Check that your destination is covered once directed to your chosen insurer’s site.

We compare quotes from over 25 travel insurance brands in Australia. Do your comparison online to save time, worry and loads of money.

WHY AUSSIES LOVE COMPARE TRAVEL INSURANCE

No Hidden Fees

Travel agents and airlines charge huge commissions. We don’t! Our travel insurance comparison is free to use. You'll be directed to the insurer's website to buy travel insurance without any sneaky charges.

Great Prices

Whether you're looking for cheap travel insurance  or fully comprehensive  cover for a domestic or international trip, you'll find the prices on our site are the same great prices you get buying travel insurance direct !

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We promise to keep your data secure and not to sell your information to other companies. And we only ever send you relevant emails you have subscribed to.

Using our comparison is easy-peasy! One simple form makes it quick and easy to compare travel insurance quotes for your holiday. You'll get quotes online for your trip in seconds.

Rest Assured

All the policies we compare have 24/7 overseas emergency assistance to help in time of need. All brands are  underwritten by reputable insurers like Allianz Australia Insurance Limited, Auto & General, Chubb, Great Lakes, Lloyds, QBE & more!

Product Choice

We compare heaps of policies for all types of travellers from some of Australia’s most reputable travel insurers. We compare 25+ insurance brands including, 1Cover, Amex, Budget Direct, Insure and Go, Virgin Money, Zoom & more!

Travel Insurance Extraordinaire At Your Service

Need some help? Use the search box below to find answers to all those tricky questions. We’ve got heaps of expert  travel insurance tips to help you get the best policy for your upcoming holiday!

Why Buy Travel Insurance?

We’re not silly, we know that plenty of Aussies go on holiday and have an amazing time exploring new and exciting places without buying travel insurance. But taking a gamble on your much-needed break can be risky. Here’s why!

Exxy Medical Costs

If you buy a policy for just one reason, this is it! Falling ill or being injured while travelling overseas can be extremely costly. Hospital costs in the USA can reach up to $10,000 per day, while emergency transport home for treatment can easily exceed $100,000! Ouch!

Disasters Can Strike

The excitement of getting on that plane has you knotted up like a pretzel. Picture your dismay if you had to cancel last minute. Worse still, imagine you’re mid-martini when bad news breaks. Should you need to return home, you’ll be covered for unforeseen events like injury or illness of a close relative.

Your Stuff Is Important

Loss, theft or damage to your prized possessions can be a common, yet gut-wrenching experience. If your personal belongings go AWOL while you’re away the right policy will pay to replace or repair them. Win!

Peace Of Mind

Because you have to.

Still not convinced? We hate to be the fun police, but some countries simply won’t let you in without cover! For example, it is mandatory to take out travel insurance when travelling to Thailand or Cuba.

Trending TRIP COVER  Tips And Guides

ultimate guide to travel insurance

Travel insurance is two words that could make all the difference to your holiday. Get the lowdown on how to choose the right travel insurance policy and the potential traps.

Pre-existing medical conditions

Having pre-existing medical conditions doesn't mean you can't get cover or that it has to be expensive. It simply means that you need to dig a little deeper when doing your research.

CORONAvIRUS & travel insurance

The rapid spread of covid-19 around the globe has thrown international travel into chaos.  Find out what's covered if you're travelling during the coronavirus outbreak.

TRAVEL INSURANCE REVIEWS

Not sure which policy to pick? Our travel insurance reviews are here to help! Thousands of Aussies have reviewed their travel insurers to give you the inside story on everything from claims handling to customer experience.

Or perhaps you want to have your say? Whether you love or loathe your travel insurer  rate and review them to help other Aussies pick the right policy for their holiday.

Travel Insurance  Frequently Asked Questions

Does travel insurance cover coronavirus (covid-19).

It depends! Unfortunately, the answer isn't a straightforward one. There are some situations where cover is available, and others where it is an exclusion. It largely depends on which insurer you bought your policy with ; when you bought it; where you're travelling to; when you're travelling; and, the reason for your claim. As travel continues to open up around the world, most (but not all) insurers provide cover for overseas hospital & medical expenses if someone named on the policy was positively diagnosed with COVID-19. Some insurers also provide cover for additional expenses and cancellation benefits.

Which is the best travel insurance in Australia?

The best travel insurance depends entirely on your planned trip and your circumstances. If you're a backpacker on a strict budget, you might want a no-frills medical-only policy, while if you've paid a lot in deposits or if you have pre-existing health conditions, a more comprehensive policy might be best for you. While there's no single best travel insurance that's right for everyone, finding a policy that works for you is easy when you use our quote comparison to start comparing prices and features. With Compare Travel Insurance, you can also read up on travel insurance reviews from customers to learn about their customer service and importantly claims experience.

What does comprehensive travel insurance cover?

Comprehensive travel insurance includes coverage for unexpected medical expenses overseas in the event of injury or illness, as well as cover if your luggage is lost or stolen, cancellation and disruption benefits if you need to cancel or are delayed for unforeseen reasons, as well as public liability cover. Go to our comprehensive travel insurance guide to learn more.

What do medical-only policies cover?

Medical-only trip insurance a.k.a basic policies generally only offer coverage for unexpected medical expenses overseas. Some basic policies also include a small amount of coverage for luggage or cancellations. Our website allows you to filter quotes for basic, mid-range and comprehensive travel insurance policies and their features to help you find the policy which is right for you.

Is it too late to buy travel cover?

Although we recommend buying a policy as soon as you've started paying deposits for flights, accommodation and tours, you can buy travel insurance at any point, even if you are already overseas . Exclusions often apply though, so be sure to check the PDS before you buy.

Can I purchase travel insurance at the airport?

Yes, you can. Generally speaking, you can purchase travel insurance up to a year before your trip, right up to boarding at the airport. With comprehensive travel insurance, you are covered for cancellation benefits from the moment you buy your policy, so we recommend buying it as soon as you start paying for flights, tours and accommodation.

Can I get travel insurance if I'm already overseas?

You can buy cover if you are already overseas, although each travel insurer has different rules on age limits and waiting periods. Check out our already overseas travel insurance guide to learn more.

Does travel insurance cover pregnancy?

You can buy travel insurance to cover you when you're pregnant, but every brand has different rules depending on how many weeks gestation you are, whether you've had complications, and whether you're looking for cover in case of emergency birth. Check out the handy table on our pregnancy guide for more information.

Do I need cover in Australia?

If you're an Australian resident, a domestic policy covers you for cancellations, luggage cover and often rental vehicle excess, but as you're covered by Medicare, medical coverage is not included. International visitors to Australia are currently not required to have travel insurance by law, but it is highly recommended to protect you from eye-watering medical bills and more.

Which is the cheapest policy?

The cost of travel insurance depends on a range of factors including your destination, duration of travel, age of travellers, planned activities, whether or not you have any medical conditions and the type of cover you choose (medical only, mid-range or comprehensive). The cheapest travel insurance is generally to less risky parts of the world - places with cheaper healthcare and less risk of injury, illness or theft - and policies which offer less coverage - so ones without benefits for adventure activities or pre-existing conditions. To get cheap travel insurance from Australia for your trip, create a quote and compare prices, but remember that the cheapest isn't always the best. You should consider your trip and what you require cover for.

Why should I buy travel insurance direct online?

Comparing prices and features online makes it easier to find the policy that's right for you and your circumstances. With comparetravelinsurance.com.au , the price you see is the same price direct from the insurer. Sometimes you're not after the best policy but rather the best bang for your buck and comparing prices and features online can save you time, worry and loads of money.

Our Travel Insurance Comparision Helps You

Save time, worry and loads of money.

Stay up to date with our latest news, deals and special offers.

Your privacy is important to us.

Comparetravelinsurance.com.au is Australia’s leading comparison site solely focused on travel insurance.

Our comparison is a free service that allows users to compare quotes in a few simple steps based on limited personal criteria. Comparisons supplied are not a recommendation or opinion about the suitability of a policy for a user. Comparisons are default ranked according to price and users have the ability to sort by popular cover levels. Whilst we compare a vast range of policies, we do not compare all providers in the market. This site compares the following brands: 1Cover, AllClear, Budget Direct, Downunder, Fast Cover Travel Insurance, Insure4Less, InsureandGo, iTrek, Simply Travel Insurance, Ski-Insurance, Travel Insurance Saver, Travel Insuranz, Wise Traveller, Zoom Travel Insurance . The directors and shareholders are common with companies i-Trek Pty Ltd, Zoom Travel Insurance and 1Cover Pty Ltd including it’s subsidiary brand Ski-insurance. CoverDirect takes all reasonable care when preparing this information but does not warrant its accuracy. Pricing information is supplied by the providers who participate on this site and should be verified with the insurer before you purchase. This site links users to the website of the provider to verify quotes and access the relevant PDS to understand what is, and is not, covered by a policy prior to purchase.

CoverDirect Pty Ltd owns and operates this website under AFS Licence 383590.  Located at Level 12, 338 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia.

For further information view our FSG and Terms of Use . Contact us by calling 1300 659 411.

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• Travel Insurance

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is designed to cover you for a range of unexpected events that could happen when you’re travelling overseas or in Australia. Allianz Travel Insurance can cover costs like travel delays or emergency medical treatment, or the cost of replacing items that were lost or stolen during your trip. 1

We have Basic, Comprehensive, Domestic, and Multi-Trip Plans to choose from, with varying levels of cover to help you when you need it most. Our plans are available for singles, duos or families. Read through our Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for detailed information about our plans to see which level of cover is right for you.

Find the right cover for your trip

Basic Travel Insurance

• Overseas emergency assistance 1
• Overseas medical and hospital expenses 1
• Personal Liability 1

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

• Overseas medical assistance and expenses 1
• Unexpected trip cancellation 3
• Loss of or damage to luggage and personal effects 1
• COVID-19 benefits 2

Domestic Travel Insurance

• Travel delay expenses 1
• Rental vehicle excess 1

Multi-Trip Travel Insurance

Additional cover options.

For an additional premium, you can choose to add an Adventure Pack, Cruise Pack, or Snow Pack to eligible plans. Increased Item Limits Cover can also be added to insure your luggage, personal effects or valuables should something happen to them while travelling.

You have the option to vary the base excess when you buy your policy (premium adjustment will apply depending on the excess selected). The choice is yours.

Website review and travel remediation

Choose what suits your needs, single cover, family plan, ready to get started, frequently asked questions.

Without travel insurance, you run the risk of incurring some significant expenses that may take years to pay off.

If you’re travelling overseas, travel insurance is an important consideration for unexpected medical bills and hospitalisation. Other unforeseen expenses could include the replacement of lost or stolen luggage, delays or cancellations to your trip, and many other unfortunate scenarios.

We don’t cover medical expenses under our Domestic Travel Insurance policy. However, you may wish to take out insurance for domestic flight changes or cancellations, lost or stolen baggage, or rental vehicle excess. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for more information.

Travel insurance may cover you for a range of unexpected events that may affect your trip, such as emergency medical assistance if you become ill or injured while travelling overseas, including arranging your evacuation if needed.

Other incidents that travel insurance may cover include costs due to unexpected delays and cancellations, rental vehicle excess, and personal liability. You also have the option to purchase additional cover for activities such as adventure sports or skiing, although this isn’t available on all plans.

Cover limits vary from insurance provider to insurance provider, as do policy terms, conditions, limits and exclusions, so it’s important to read the Product Disclosure Statement to make sure you fully understand what’s covered, the limits applying to the policy, and to make sure the policy is appropriate for your needs.

The length of your Travel Insurance policy is largely dependent on the travel dates you supply. When obtaining a quote, or buying a policy, you’ll be prompted to enter in your departure and return dates – this will be the period of cover for all benefits except the cancellation benefit, which begins from the date your policy is issued.

The period of cover is also shown on your Certificate of Insurance, which is sent to you at the time of purchase. You may want to extend the length of your holiday abroad (and therefore need an extension of your period of cover) and you may be able to do this within specified timeframes.

If you think you may travel more than once a year, you may wish to consider a Multi-Trip policy . Different start and end dates apply, refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.

It’s up to you when you buy Allianz Travel Insurance, however, keep in mind these three things:

• You can buy our Travel Insurance up to 12 months in advance.
• You must buy Allianz Travel Insurance before you start your journey. Your journey starts when any traveller named on the Certificate of Insurance leaves home or work in Australia to begin travel.
• Depending on the plan you choose you may have trip cancellation cover, which covers unexpected trip cancellation, rescheduling or shortening from the date your Certificate of Insurance is issued. So, consider buying our Travel Insurance as soon as you’ve booked and paid for some or all your trip as you may be covered for such events before you depart.

Yes, if you change your mind after you buy your Travel Insurance policy, you may cancel it within 14 days of your Certificate of Insurance being issued.

You’ll be given a full refund of the premium you’ve paid, provided you’ve not started your journey and don’t intend to make a claim or exercise any other right under your policy.

When considering which policy is right for you, make sure you consider your needs, as well as your financial situation. Reading the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination (TMD) is a good place to start as they will give you more detail, so you can decide if the plan is right for you.

Allianz Travel Insurance offers a number of travel insurance plans – Basic , Comprehensive , Domestic , Non-Medical or Multi-Trip Travel Insurance . You can see more detailed information on our Compare Cover Options page .

This product has a general exclusion, with limited exceptions, against epidemics and pandemics. That means we don’t cover claims that arise from, or are related to, an epidemic or pandemic.

However, you’re covered under selected benefits in this product if, during your period of cover, you’re positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19.

Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement to see which benefits offer cover in the event that you contract a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, and the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply.

Note: There is no cover under any benefit of this policy if your claim arises because you did not follow advice or a warning that has been issued by the Australian Government or a reliable mass media source. This applies even if an Australian government has given you permission to travel, or you fall under a specific exemption where there is otherwise a travel ban in place.

If you have any questions call us on 13 1000 .

If you need to shorten your journey while travelling, or are prevented from travelling due to a COVID-19 border closure or mandatory quarantine period, you may be entitled to receive a partial or full refund on your premium. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for more information.

Eligibility criteria applies. Contact us on 1800 440 806 or email us .

There is no cover under any benefit of this policy if your claim arises because you didn’t follow an advice or warning that a reasonable person would have been aware of, that has been issued by the Australian government (when a ‘reconsider your need to travel’ or ‘do not travel’ alert is in place), which can be found on Smartraveller ; or which was published in a reliable mass media source.

Before buying travel insurance, and while you’re travelling, check Smartraveller and Allianz Partners for travel alerts or advisories for your intended destination(s).

Note: This applies even if an Australian government has given you permission to travel, or you fall under a specific exemption where there is otherwise a travel ban in place.

Tip: Subscribe to Smartraveller to get travel alerts and advisory updates by email.

Refer to General Exclusions in the Product Disclosure Statement for a full list of exclusions.

If you have any questions, call us on 13 1000 .

A general exclusion, sometimes referred to as a policy exclusion or exclusion, is an exclusion that applies to all policy benefits.

Should a general exclusion apply, your travel insurance policy won’t provide cover for the specified event, activities or circumstances.

Refer to General Exclusions in the Product Disclosure Statement provided at the time of purchase for a full list of exclusions.

We're here to help

Give us a call, or send us a message, follow us on, *conditions apply.

• Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits apply. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.
• Policy terms, conditions, limits, exclusions, and sub-limits apply to particular types of losses, premium refunds (full or partial) or claims. This product has a general exclusion, with limited exceptions, against epidemics and pandemics. That means we don’t cover claims that arise from, or are related to, an epidemic or pandemic. However, you’re covered under selected benefits in this product if, during your period of cover, you’re positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19. Refer to the Product Disclosure Statement to see which benefits offer cover in the event you contract a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, and the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply.
• Terms, conditions, limits, exclusions and sub-limits apply. Cancellation cover is only available on Comprehensive, Domestic and Multi-Trip Plans. Refer to Cancellation and General Exclusions sections of the Product Disclosure Statement for full details.
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Any advice here does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits apply. Before making a decision about this insurance, please consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)/Policy Wording and Supplementary PDS (if applicable). Where applicable, the PDS/Policy Wording, Supplementary PDS and Target Market Determination (TMD) for this insurance are available on this website.

Travel Insurance is issued and managed by AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFS Licence No. 245631, trading as Allianz Global Assistance (AGA) as agent of the insurer Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFS Licence No. 234708 (Allianz). Travel Insurance is underwritten by the insurer Allianz. Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits apply.

^The 15% off Travel Insurance ‘EASTER15’ discount is available from 12:01am AEST 18/03/2024 until 11:59pm AEST 29/03/2024 by entering the valid promo code. The discount applies to new policy purchases and is based on standard premium rates (including optional extras). It applies automatically upon successful input of the promo code and applies to any changes, upgrades or amendments made to the policy prior to commencement of the journey. The discount may apply to changes made after commencement of the journey, contact Allianz Global Assistance to find out more. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

We don’t provide advice based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making a decision, please consider the Product Disclosure Statement available on this website. If you purchase this insurance, AGA will receive a commission that is a percentage of the premium. Ask us for more details before we provide you with any services on this product.

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When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Travel Insurance Direct Review: Pros and Cons

Published: Mar 26, 2024, 1:44pm

Travel Insurance Direct is one of our highest ranking comprehensive policies, largely due to its thorough Covid-19 cover which includes both medical expenses and trip cancellations. It also includes some 43 medical conditions automatically, and covers a broad range of sports and adventure activities—some 93, in fact.

Related: Best Comprehensive Travel Insurance Providers for Australians

• Thorough Covid-19 cover for both medical and cancellations
• 93 sports and activities are automatically covered
• Lost luggage coverage up to $12,000, with the ability to increase item limits
• Online discounts are only available for multiple policies or group policies
• Certain pre-existing medical conditions cannot be covered
• Only covered up to 75 years of age

Table of Contents

About travel insurance direct, what does travel insurance direct cover, covid-19 coverage, what about pregnancy, sports and activities, customer service.

Travel Insurance Direct has been offering travel insurance policies to Australian customers since 2005, and sells policies in more than 100 countries.

The company is part of the nib group, with all insurance policies offered by Travel Insurance Direct underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd.

In Forbes Advisor Australia’s pick of the best comprehensive travel insurance policies , Travel Insurance Direct ranked the highest with 4.5 stars (as did Allianz and Bupa ). But it is not just Forbes Advisor Australia that has given Travel Insurance Direct a positive review: from more than 2,500 customer submissions, TID has received a star ranking of 4.2 stars on Australia’s independent consumer opinion website, ProductReview.

Related: How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

Featured Partners

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

Covid Cover?

Maximum age limit?

99 years old

Lost luggage cover?

Yes, up to $15,000

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

While Travel Insurance Direct offers a comprehensive policy with significant Covid-19 cover, emergency evacuation and other features, it is only available for those aged up to 75 years old at the time of the policy being issued. This means for elderly travellers, or grandparents wishing to travel with their families, the policy may not be suitable.

However, for families looking to travel without their elderly grandparents or relatives, the policy automatically includes children up to the age of 21 provided they are working fewer than 30 hours per week and are travelling with the policyholders for the entire trip.

In terms of financial coverage, Travel Insurance Direct will cover up to $3,000 in credit card fraud and up to $2.5 million for personal liability.

Additionally, travel delays are covered up to $2,000, while missed connections are only covered for special events (and included in the $2,000 travel delay limit). Cancellations are also covered with the amount chosen by the customer, which in turn, affects the premium.

For those looking to hire a car while abroad, Travel Insurance Direct offers a car hire excess of $6,000 in coverage.

Lost luggage

Travel Insurance Direct covers lost luggage up to $12,000, but sub limits apply. If required, item limits can be increased within individual policies, but, once again, this is likely to increase the premium.

Unlimited overseas medical cover is included with the Travel Insurance Direct comprehensive policy. Within that cover, there are 43 pre-existing conditions that will automatically be accepted pending certain criteria.

These conditions include allergies, epilepsy, iron deficiency, migraines and more. Unfortunately, other conditions are not covered, nor is there a way to include them within your policy as an additional fee.

On its website, Travel Insurance Direct states that “if you have an existing medical condition that’s not listed above as an automatically accepted condition, or you don’t satisfy all criteria for any listed condition, then you can still buy a policy, but you won’t be covered for any claim that arises in relation to the existing medical condition”.

It’s worth noting that the unlimited medical cover also includes illness arising from Covid-19, which is explained in more depth below.

Is Dental Cover Included in Medical?

No, dental cover is not included in Travel Insurance Direct’s medical cover. Dental is still covered, but only to a limit of $1,000, although this is still higher than some insurers, which offer policies that top out at $500 for dental.

Travel Insurance Direct includes Covid-19 related medical expenses within its unlimited medical coverage. From our analysis, we found that Travel Insurance Direct had one of the best Covid-19 cover options on the market—which is important in this day and age.

Along with medical expenses, any additional travel expenses incurred due to Covid-19 are covered up to $2,500. Plus, cancellations due to Covid are covered for both you and your travelling party.

Travel Insurance Direct will cover pregnancy covered up until week 26 provided there are no pre-existing complications. Pre-existing complications are not covered, and cannot be covered under any circumstance.

Childbirth is not covered.

Related: Guide To Pregnancy And Travel Insurance

There are 93 automatically included sports and activities within the Travel Insurance Direct comprehensive policy, making it a great choice for customers looking to embark on an adventure-filled holiday.

The list includes quite a few thrill-seeking holiday activities, such as bungee jumping, go-karting, canoeing, mountain biking, zip lining and more.

Certain activities may come with caveats and conditions. For example, hiking and trekking is included as an activity but will only be covered to certain heights and in certain locations. Another example is motorcycle riding, which is only covered if you are riding a motorbike that is 250cc or less and are wearing a helmet.

For other specific adventure coverage—such as snow sports, cruising, or policies targeted towards backpackers—Travel Insurance Direct offers optional add-ons at an extra cost.

Travel Insurance Direct offers its policyholders 24/7 emergency assistance.

The TID Worldwide 24/7 emergency assistance team can be called on:

• +61 2 8256 1523, or
• +61 2 9234 3123

Phone enquiries are also available from Australia and overseas on Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm AEST. These lines are:

• 1300 843 843 from Australia, or
• +61 2 8256 1537 from overseas

You can also submit online enquiries via the TID website at any time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who underwrites travel insurance direct.

Travel Insurance Direct is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd.

What is the best travel insurance for Australians?

The best travel insurance for Australians will depend on a multitude of factors: whether you’re travelling domestically or internationally, where you are going, what activities you have planned, your age, any pre-existing conditions, and more.

This means that the best policy for you may not be the best policy for someone else.

For ease, Forbes Advisor Australia has reviewed the comprehensive options on the market and chosen our top 10 picks. Travel Insurance Direct ranked the highest, scoring 4.5 stars.

We have also ranked our picks for the best domestic policies for Australians for those looking for local options; the best policies for senior travellers ; the best cruise policies, for travellers setting sail; and the best family-friendly policies .

Is there a promo code for Travel Insurance Direct?

No, at the time of writing, there are no active promotional codes for Travel Insurance Direct. However, you can be eligible for a discount if you purchase multiple policies at once, which can be helpful for families.

Sophie Venz is an experienced editor and features reporter, and has previously worked in the small business and start-up reporting space. Previously the Associate Editor of SmartCompany site, Sophie has worked closely with finance experts and columnists around Australia and internationally. Sophie grew up on the Gold Coast and now lives in Melbourne.

• Best Comprehensive Travel Insurance
• Best Seniors Travel Insurance
• Best Cruise Travel Insurance
• Best Domestic Travel Insurance
• Travel Insurance Cost
• Pregnancy Travel Insurance Guide
• Travel Insurance For Bali
• Travel Insurance For Fiji
• Travel Insurance For The USA
• Travel Insurance For Thailand
• Travel Insurance For New Zealand
• Travel Insurance For Japan
• Travel Insurance For Europe

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Our pick of the best cruise travel insurance, cover-more comprehensive travel insurance review, insureandgo travel insurance review, our guide to the best family travel insurance for australians, interest rates are high, but aussies keep travelling, annual multi-trip travel insurance explained.

• Nationwide Travel Insurance
• AXA Assistance USA
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance
• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance
• World Nomads Travel Insurance

Cruise Travel Insurance Tips

• Why You Should Trust Us

Best Cruise Insurance Companies of April 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

A cruise vacation can take much of the stress out of planning a vacation. With a pre-set itinerary on the high seas, you don't have to worry about how you're getting to your destination and what you're going to do there. However, an unexpected emergency can take the wind out of your sails and money out of your travel budget. So you'll want to ensure you have the best travel insurance coverage that won't leave you high and dry in an emergency.

Best Cruise Insurance Companies

• Nationwide Travel Insurance : Best Overall
• AXA Assistance USA : Best for Affordability
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance : Best for Seniors
• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance : Best for Expensive Trips
• World Nomads Travel Insurance : Best for Exotic Locations

Compare the Top Cruise Insurance Offers

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Diverse coverage options such as CFAR, optional sports equipment coverage, etc.
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all 50 states
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Prices are higher than many competitors
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews around claims processing are mixed
• Trip cancellation insurance of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance available

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable premiums
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR coverage available with some plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
• Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
• Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
• Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

Cruise Insurance Reviews

Best cruise insurance overall: nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide Travel Insurance  is a long-standing and reputable brand within the insurance marketplace that offers cruise insurance plans with solid coverage and reasonable rates.

It has three cruise insurance options: Universal, Choice, and Luxury. The Nationwide Choice plan, for example, offers $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage.

The right plan for you depends on your budget and coverage needs. But each plan offers cruise-specific coverages like ship-based mechanical breakdowns, coverage for missed prepaid excursions if your cruise itinerary changes, and covered service disruptions aboard the cruise ship.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Affordability: AXA Travel Insurance

AXA Assistance USA  offers three comprehensive coverage plans: Gold, Silver, and Platinum. Each of these plans offers coverage for issues like missed flights, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more.

The highest-tier Platinum plan provides $250,000 in medical emergency coverage and $1 million in medical evacuation coverage. The baggage loss coverage is $3,000 per person, and their missed connection coverage is $1,500 per person for cruises and tours.

In addition, travelers can take advantage of AXA's concierge service, which provides an extensive network of international service providers. They'll be able to assist you with things like restaurant reservations and referrals, golf course information, and more. This service could come in handy if you're stopping at a variety of unfamiliar destinations during your cruise.

The coverage limits on AXA's policies are on the higher end compared to other providers. And you can buy coverage for a little as 4% of your trip cost depending on your age, travel destination, and state of residence.

Read our AXA Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Seniors: Seven Corners Travel Insurance

Seven Corners Travel Insurance lets cruisers enjoy traveling in their golden years with the knowledge they're covered in the event of an accident or emergency. While other providers do offer coverage to those 80+ years old, Seven Corners is known for its affordable premiums while offering above-average medical expenses and medical evacuation coverage limits — two areas of travel insurance coverage that are even more important as we get older.

Seven Corners also offers the option of a preexisting conditions waiver and CFAR insurance at an additional cost, plus "Trip Interruption for Any Reason" coverage, which you won't find on many policies.

You can choose between the Trip Protection Basic or Trip Protection Choice plans, with the higher-tier Choice plan costing more but providing more coverage.

Read our Seven Corners Travel Insurance review here. 

Best Cruise Insurance for Expensive Trips: HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance  offers three levels of trip protection: TripProtector Economy, Classic, and Preferred. The higher the tier, the more coverage you'll get for things like baggage delays, trip delays & cancellations, and medical expenses. But their premiums remain reasonable even at the highest tier of coverage.

Not only does the HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Preferred plan offer higher-than-average medical emergency and evacuation coverage limits ($500,000 and $1 million, respectively), but you'll also get a baggage loss coverage limit of $2,000 per person and coverage for trip interruption of up to 200% of the trip cost. You also have the option to add CFAR coverage for an additional cost.

Read our HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Exotic Locations: World Nomads Travel Insurance

World Nomads Travel Insurance  has been a top choice for comprehensive travel insurance for many years now. And it's a great option when it comes to cruise coverage, too.

Even the most basic Standard Plan comes with $100,000 in medical emergency coverage and $300,000 in emergency evacuation coverage. And you'll get higher coverage limits with their Premium Plan. Plus, unlike many other providers, World Nomads trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage include COVID-19-related issues.

What sets World Nomads apart from many other insurance companies is that its policies cover 200+ adventure sports. This can be important for adventurous cruisers who plan to take part in activities like jet skiing, scuba diving, or parasailing during their cruise.

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Cruise Insurance

Cruise insurance may offer unique coverage like missed port of call and medical evacuation coverage. You might not need the flight protections of a regular travel insurance plan if you're catching a cruise at a port near you, but medical and cancel for any reason coverage could be critical.

Understanding the Basics of Cruise Insurance

At its core, cruise insurance is your financial lifeboat, designed to protect you from unforeseen events that could disrupt your sea voyage. Whether it's a sudden illness, adverse weather, or other unexpected occurrences, having the right insurance can make a world of difference.

Why Cruise Insurance is Important

Picture this: You're all set for your dream cruise, but a sudden family emergency means you can't set sail. Or worse, you fall ill in the middle of the ocean. Without cruise insurance, you're not just missing out on an adventure, but also facing potentially huge financial losses. That's why securing cruise insurance isn't just recommended; it's a crucial part of your cruise planning.

Types of Cruise Insurance Coverage

Cruise insurance isn't a one-size-fits-all life jacket. There are various types of coverage, each tailored to protect different aspects of your cruise experience.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage

This coverage is like your safety net, catching you financially if you need to cancel your trip last minute or cut it short due to emergencies, be it due to personal, health-related, or even certain work conflicts.

Medical Coverage

Being on a cruise shouldn't mean being adrift from medical care. Medical coverage ensures that if you fall ill or get injured, your medical expenses won't sink your finances.

Emergency Evacuation Coverage

In the rare case that you need to be evacuated from the ship due to a medical emergency or severe weather, this coverage ensures you're not left adrift in a sea of expenses.

Baggage and Personal Effects Coverage

Imagine reaching your dream destination only to find your luggage lost at sea. This coverage ensures that lost, stolen, or damaged baggage doesn't dampen your cruise experience.

Buying Cruise Insurance

Securing the best cruise insurance isn't just about finding the best price; it's about ensuring it covers all your potential needs.

When to Purchase Cruise Insurance

Timing is everything. Purchasing your insurance soon after booking your cruise can often provide additional benefits and ensure you're covered for any early surprises. As you get closer to your trip your coverage options may get more expensive, and certain providers may not be able to offer you coverage.

How to Find the Best Deals on Cruise Insurance

Keep a lookout for deals, but remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best. Balance cost with coverage, and ensure you're getting the protection you need at a price that doesn't rock your financial boat. A travel insurance comparison site like SquareMouth is a good place to compare multiple quotes from all of the major carriers at once.

How to Pick The Best Cruise Insurance for You

When buying travel insurance for a cruise, consider the additional risks that are specific to cruising. These include hurricanes and other weather-related concerns, strict cancellation terms, high pre-paid costs of a cruise, and the distance to emergency medical assistance.

To find the policy that's right for you, it's best to compare several different cruise insurance policies based on the pricing and coverage they provide. Remember too that all reputable insurance providers will offer a "free-look period." This allows you to return the policy you've purchased for any reason, within a specific time period, for a full refund.

The most important coverages to look for in cruise insurance are:

• Medical coverage — This coverage will pay for medical bills outside the US. But because treatment can be more expensive while onboard, make sure your policy offers sufficient coverage ($100,000+).
• Medical evacuation coverage — This coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if you become sick or injured during your journey. But an evacuation from sea will be more expensive than one from land. So you'll want to make sure your coverage has sufficiently high limits ($250,000+).
• Missed connection (missed port of call) coverage — This type of coverage will help you catch up to your itinerary if you miss your port of call for a covered reason, like a delayed flight on the way to the airport.
• Coverage for hurricane warnings — With this type of coverage, you don't actually need to be affected by the hurricane. You can cancel and be reimbursed for your trip if the NOAA issues a hurricane warning. If you're cruising anywhere during (or on the tail ends) of hurricane season, this can come in handy. Just note: You can't buy travel insurance to cover a weather event once a storm or hurricane has been named.
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) — This is the most comprehensive coverage you can get, as it allows cancellations and reimbursement for pre-paid expenses for any reason. This can be a wise add-on for cruise coverage given the often higher prepaid expenses associated with cruising. See our guide to the best CFAR travel insurance options to learn more.
• Preexisting conditions — This coverage ensures that no known health conditions are excluded from coverage. Obtaining a preexisting condition waiver usually requires purchasing your travel insurance soon after booking your trip.
• Personal possessions insurance — Because of the events and fancy dinners cruise ships hold, you might take more valuable clothing or jewelry with you on a cruise. This type of coverage will insure your belongings against loss or theft while cruising.
• Baggage loss and delay — This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount for essentials if your bags are delayed or if your bags get lost en route.

As a rule of thumb, you can expect to pay between 5% and 10% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses for cruise insurance coverage. The price will vary depending on factors like your age, your travel destination, and whether you require additional coverage.

If you're booking a cruise, we recommend purchasing travel insurance when you make your first trip payment. That could be for the cruise itself or an expense like airfare to get you to your cruising destination. This way, if you have to cancel your trip, you'll have the most extended coverage period possible.

You can buy your own cruise insurance that isn't offered directly through the cruise line operator. In fact, this could be a better option if you want coverage for your travel to the cruise's departure point, not just for the cruise itself.

The difference between traditional travel insurance and cruise insurance is that cruise insurance offers more specialized coverage, for situations such as missing a departure port and more coverage for medical evacuations, since it's more expensive to evacuate someone at sea than on land. 

Most cruise insurance includes coverage for missing a departure port, so you should be able to claim for a missed port. Just make sure you check the details of your policy before you file a claim, and before you travel so you know what compensation you're entitled to.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Cruise Travel Insurance

When comparing cruise travel insurance providers, we evaluated them based on the following criteria to come up with our list of top picks:

Customer Satisfaction

We look at ratings from JD Power and other industry giants to see where a company ranks in customer satisfaction. We also look at customer review sites like Trustpilot and SquareMouth.

Policy Types

We look at policy types and offerings, from standard travel protections to adventure sports coverage. We look at the amount of insurance offered

Average Premiums

We compare average premiums per trip. Some companies also offer annual plans, and we compare policies accordingly.

Claims Paid

How frequently do companies pay claims easily and quickly? We check customer reviews and other resources to see which companies honor policies most effectively.

We look at the company's overall behavior. Is it operating ethically? Companies can earn additional points for such behaviors.

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance here.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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• Main content

International flights approach pre-Covid levels with new and expanded routes

Planes are parked at Incheon International Airport. [NEWS1]

Korea's international flights are projected to reach 98 percent of pre-Covid levels during this summer, with new routes established between Incheon and Croatia's Zagreb and Australia's Melbourne.

The number of international flights will increase to 4,528 per week on 231 routes between domestic airports this summer from March 31 to Oct. 26, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport announced Thursday. This is up by 520 flights per week compared to last year's summer season,

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Korea, kazakhstan expand flight routes to strengthen bilateral ties, many more korea-mongolia flights are on their way, more korea-indonesia direct flights are on their way.

This summer's new or resumed routes are flights from Incheon to Zagreb in Croatia, Melbourne in Australia and Mexico City in Mexico. Additional routes from Korea's regional airports include Gimhae in South Gyeongsang to Bohol in the Philippines, Daegu to Zhangjiajie in China, Muan in South Jeolla to Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia, and Jeju to Xian in China.

Flight frequency expanded from last winter on routes including Poland, which increased from five to seven times a week, and the United Arab Emirates, rising from 21 to 28 times a week. These expansions came after airlines were granted widened traffic rights last year.

In addition, flights to the United States have increased from 193 to 232 times a week, while those to Europe have risen from 114 to 139 times a week.

"Just as we've recently expanded traffic rights to Indonesia, Mongolia and Kazakhstan, we intend to keep broadening our international routes to enhance citizens' travel convenience and support businesses," a ministry official said.

BY SEO JI-EUN [[email protected]]