International travel is rivalling pre-pandemic levels, as figures show Australians took on average 1.45 international flights per person in the 2024 financial year, and the volume of travellers returning from international trips was 32 per cent higher than in 2022-23.[1] This renewed interest in travel is also led by an increase in discretionary spending on holiday-related services[2] – driven by a substantial 31.7 per cent year-over-year growth in international passenger movements[3] and a 6.0 per cent increase in the domestic market.[4]
Amid this travel resurgence, a leading travel insurance provider is advising Australians to remain cautious around travel risks. Even as more Australians embark on much anticipated holidays, many are still making common yet costly mistakes when purchasing travel insurance, potentially putting their trips—and their wallets—at risk.
The experts at award-winning Australian travel insurance provider Insure&Go reveal the top things to consider ensuring you have added peace of mind on your next trip away.
- Purchasing travel insurance after departure. Among the most common mistakes that travellers make is purchasing travel insurance after their holiday has already begun. For example, if you purchase insurance after you’ve boarded the plane, some insurance providers may invalidate the policy. Booking your travel insurance early can offer specific protection benefits like cancellation, from the moment you purchase the insurance.
- Not declaring pre-existing conditions. Insurance companies often have different waiting periods to exclude pre-existing conditions. For example, if you fail to declare a critical illness such as cancer on your policy, and your policy waiting period has not passed, then you will not be able to claim for any event related to that illness. Always disclose truthfully so you are not refused cover at a time when it could be required most.
- Assuming you’re covered for every activity. If you are planning adventurous activities such as skiing, scuba diving or motorcycle riding, they may not be covered under a general policy. Insure&Go recommends considering ahead of your trip any activities you will engage in, and obtaining relevant policy extras if necessary, so you are protected for these activities.
- Ignoring the fine print on alcohol consumption. When it comes to accidents or injuries, having alcohol in your system could render your claim null and void by some insurance providers. Though this point is widely misunderstood, understanding the overall implications of drinking while travelling is crucial.
- Overlooking trip duration. Travel insurance coverage can vary significantly based on the length of your stay. Insure&Go recommends reviewing policy limits carefully and ensuring your travel dates align with the coverage provided.
- Ignoring government travel warnings. Your travel insurance can be invalidated immediately if you travel to a country with ‘Do Not Travel’ advice from SmartTraveller.gov.au. Remain on top of the latest government advice on high-risk countries to ensure you are safe and covered when travelling.
ENDS
About Insure&Go
Insure&Go (insureandgo.com.au) is one of Australia’s leading, award-winning online travel insurance specialists. Since it was established in Australia in 2012, Insure&Go has covered more than 2 million Australian travellers. Owned by Europ Assistance, which operates in more than 200 countries, Insure&Go has an expansive, 24/7 global assistance network. Insure&Go Australia has won numerous awards and recommendations for its services including the 2024 WeMoney Award for ‘Best for Seniors’ award, the 2023 Canstar award for ‘Outstanding Value – Seniors Travel Insurance’ and ‘Outstanding Value – International Travel Insurance’, the 2024 Finder award for ‘Trusted Brand’. More information about Insure&Go’s awards can be found on its website.
This insurance is underwritten by Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company Limited (MSI), ABN 49 000 525 637, AFSL 240816. Europ Assistance Australia Pty Ltd, ACN 140 219 594, AFSL 552106, trading as Insure&Go and other brands, holds a binding authority from the insurer, MSI to issue contracts of insurance and to deal with or settle claims on MSI’s behalf and as MSI’s agent. Any advice is general advice only and does not take account of your particular circumstances. Before purchasing, decide whether this product is right for you. Consider the PDS and TMD at InsureandGo.com.au.