Travel Insurance Australia: Comprehensive & Affordable Choices
When you are preparing to take your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Western Australia, there is one important thing that should never be forgotten – travel insurance. It may seem like an unnecessary expense, but no matter how meticulously planned and organised you think your holiday will be, things can always go wrong. From flight delays and cancellations to medical emergencies and other losses incurred during the trip – having specialised travel insurance for Australia gives travellers a financial safety net if something does not go according to plan.
So, before planning the itinerary and packing those bags, make sure you have researched the best travel insurance for Australia.
I’ve lived in Australia since 2020 and have travelled extensively within the country and internationally. One thing I will never leave home without is travel insurance. Unfortunately, I’ve had to claim on the policies a few times, which has been easier with some companies than others.
This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.
Popular Travel Insurance Companies
1. Travelex
Travelex offers coverage for trip cancellations, medical expenses, and more.
2. World Nomads
World Nomads travel insurance allows travellers to buy, extend and claim online, 24/7, on the road or from home. Benefits include coverage for emergency medical and evacuation or repatriation, baggage, trip cancellation and more than 150 adventure activities.
3. Cover-More
15 million global travellers trust Cover-More who have over 35 years experience. They are backed by Zurich.
4. Allianz
Allianz Travel Insurance provides cover for a range of unexpected events that could happen when you travel.
Is Travel Insurance Compulsory for Travel to Australia?
Travel insurance is not mandatory to enter Australia, but it is highly recommended as medical care can be expensive. A doctor or dentist visit can cost hundreds of dollars, and hospital stays, for emergencies or illnesses, can cost several thousand dollars. Insurance can protect you against any medical emergency or travel mishaps that may occur on your trip.
Visitors from the United Kingdom, Ireland, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Sweden, Finland, Italy, and Malta can receive coverage for emergency health care in Australia as part of a reciprocal health care agreement. However, travel insurance covers much more than basic emergency care.
With the right policy, you can ensure that you are covered for all eventualities.
Which Policy is Best for Travel Insurance?
The best travel insurance policy when travelling to Australia should offer comprehensive coverage for medical expenses and travel emergencies. Look for one that covers doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency travel and evacuation, lost or damaged luggage and travel documents. You should also check if it covers any pre-existing medical conditions that you may have.
You should determine the right travel insurance for your circumstances.
Some requirements may be:
- Trip Cancellation
- Trip Delay
- Emergency Medical Assistance
- Cover for our pre-existing Conditions
- Repatriation
- Cash and Passport Theft
- Lost and Stolen Luggage
- Personal Belongings
- Provide 24/7 Customer Support
- Provider must be Reputable and Experienced
What Travel Insurance will not Cover
Some travel insurance will not provide coverage for various situations, the most common being pre-existing medical conditions, extreme sports and activities, and any events related to war or terrorism. Additionally, many policies do not cover certain aspects of international travel, such as expenses related to lost or delayed luggage or trip cancellations due to weather conditions.
What is a Reasonable Amount to Pay for Travel Insurance?
The amount an individual should pay for travel insurance varies depending on a variety of factors, such as the type of coverage they are looking for and their destination. Generally speaking, the cost of a comprehensive travel insurance policy can range from 4% to 8% of the total trip cost. So, if an individual is going on a $1,000 trip, they could expect to pay between $40 and $80 for their travel insurance policy. While this may seem like a lot for just one aspect of a trip, it can be worth it when considering the potential costs associated with an emergency while travelling internationally.
Overall, deciding how much to pay for travel insurance depends greatly on each individual.
How do I Get the Best Deal on Travel Insurance?
One of the best ways to get a great deal on travel insurance is to research and shop around. Many companies offer different levels of coverage at varying prices, so it is important to compare options and find the best fit for your needs.
Can I use my Credit Card Insurance for Australia?
It depends on your credit card type and the specific travel insurance benefits offered. Some credit cards provide coverage as a benefit, which may cover trips to Australia. It’s best to check with your credit card issuer for full details and conditions that apply to your particular card.
Tips before buying Travel Insurance
- Always read the fine print, including the Product Disclosure Statement and the terms and conditions.
- Make sure that you understand what is covered in each plan; some policies cover more than others (like you may need extra cover for scuba diving.)
- Are you cruising during your trip? Often insurance companies have additional add-ons for cruises.
- Check to see if it has rental vehicle insurance excess if you are hiring a car in Australia.
- Compare different travel insurance plans to ensure you are getting the most for your money.
- How much is the excess?
- Is there a maximum age limit?
- How long is the policy valid?
- What are the benefit limits? Is that enough for you?
- Check online reviews of the insurance provider and policy.
Following these tips when selecting travel insurance, you can find the best coverage for your next trip to Australia.
Can I Buy Travel insurance for my flight after booking?
It is possible to buy travel insurance for your flight after booking. Many airlines and travel insurance companies offer the option of purchasing a policy once your trip has been booked. Depending on the provider, there may be additional benefits included in the coverage, such as medical and emergency assistance, lost baggage reimbursement, trip cancellation or interruption coverage, rental car protection, and more.
However, it is important to read through the policy details carefully before purchasing any travel insurance to ensure you understand what is covered and how much coverage you need. Additionally, some policies require you to buy the insurance within a certain period after making your flight reservation to qualify for coverage. Researching different providers and seeing what they offer can help you make an informed decision when choosing a travel insurance policy that meets your needs.
Tips for travelling to Australia
- Make sure you have the necessary visas and understand any immigration requirements.
- Research your destination to determine what activities, attractions, and events are available during your visit.
- Get vaccinated against common diseases in Australia if needed.
- Bring a travel adapter for Australian power outlets to charge electronics while travelling.
- Once you have chosen your travel insurance policy, keep a copy of it with you at all times in case of emergencies.
- Use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing, sunglasses and a hat outdoors to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Be aware of local laws, as some may differ from those in your own country.
- Keep up-to-date on the latest travel advice issued by the Australian government before you embark on your trip. This can help ensure that you remain safe while travelling.
By taking the time to find the right travel insurance policy, you can make sure that your travel experience is both enjoyable and safe. With comprehensive travel insurance, you have the security of knowing that whatever comes up, whether it’s medical needs or travel emergencies, you’ll have the resources to take care of it.
Get Free Travel Insurance Quotes
Start with comparing the policies and quotes, if applicable to your country of residence.
Disclosure: This is intended as a guide only. You should read all the fine print and decide if the policy is right for you. If you don’t understand any of the wording, seek professional advice or call the company to ask questions relating to your circumstances.