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 about 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 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.
“We want to support our customers to ensure they are fully informed and protected with their selected travel insurance policies,” says Insure&Go’s spokesperson, David Mayo.
“During this time, when Australians are more budget conscious, understanding how to sidestep these typical mistakes with travel insurance can help travellers maximise the enjoyment of their trip without the worry of unforeseen costs.”
[1] https://www.abs.gov.au/media-centre/media-releases/number-aussies-travelling-overseas-reaches-pre-covid-levels
[2] https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/economy/finance/monthly-household-spending-indicator/latest-release
[3] https://www.bitre.gov.au/statistics/aviation/international
[4] https://www.bitre.gov.au/statistics/aviation/domestic
