Got a Holiday Booked? Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Once the flights and accommodation are booked, it can feel like the holiday is sorted. But travel insurance is one thing you don’t want to overlook. If something goes wrong overseas, particularly if you need medical treatment, the costs can quickly add up.
Medicare Doesn’t Cover You Overseas
Medicare generally won’t cover medical treatment while you are overseas. Australia has reciprocal health care agreements with some countries, but the cover available is limited and is not a substitute for travel insurance.
Medical Treatment Can Be Expensive
An unexpected illness or injury overseas can result in significant medical bills. Depending on where you are travelling, you may also be required to pay upfront or provide your insurance details before receiving treatment.
Getting Home Can Cost Even More
Medical evacuation can be one of the biggest expenses if something goes wrong overseas. As an indication, 1Cover estimates that an air ambulance back to Australia could cost around $210,000 from Thailand or $360,000 from Europe, depending on the circumstances.
Know What Your Policy Covers
Travel insurance policies have conditions, limits and exclusions, so it is important to understand what you are covered for before you travel. Pay particular attention to pre-existing medical conditions, policy excesses, unattended belongings and any activities that may require additional cover.
Before You Travel
Before heading off:
- Read the Product Disclosure Statement.
- Declare any pre-existing medical conditions.
- Check the medical and evacuation limits.
- Make sure you have additional cover for cruises or particular activities if required.
- Keep important paperwork and receipts in case you need to make a claim.
If you have a trip coming up and haven’t arranged travel insurance yet, contact the team at Provide Insurance to discuss the cover that may be right for you.