How to Prevent Illness While Travelling

26th February, 2019

While you may have already been bitten by the travel bug and are busy planning your next holiday, take a minute to learn how you can avoid unwanted bugs and illnesses on your next trip. From protecting yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses to avoiding foreign tap water, there are many ways you can easily avoid getting sick while on holiday.

While a cat may have nine lives, we humans are not so lucky. So we’ve made it easy for you to stay healthy by creating a comprehensive guide with our medical expert Carmen Grau, on the top nine ways you can minimise your chances of getting sick. Whether you plan on travelling across the country or halfway around the world, allow this helpful information to make your vacation memorable instead of one you’d rather forget.

For those instances where you do fall ill despite all your preventative actions, let travel insurance come to the rescue by at least providing you with medical and financial assistance to cover overseas medical expenses you may incur.

 

Keep your hands clean

We can blame our hands for many of the germs and viruses that enter our bodies. When we touch contaminated surfaces, we create a free and easy travel service for germs to infect us when we proceed to then rub our eyes, nose, or mouth without first washing our hands. Embrace your inner germophobe on your next holiday by remembering to wash your hands as much as possible, especially before eating meals and snacks.

Travelling to new destinations opens us up to a whole range of new germs and viruses our immune system hasn’t yet faced. We also put ourselves at a higher risk of contracting bugs since we pass through high-traffic areas such as airports, where sick individuals can easily pass their illnesses onto others. Be sure to wash your hands after visiting the loo, remembering to use soap, rub hands vigorously, wash for at least 20 seconds, turn off the tap using a towel or elbow, and make sure to use a clean towel to dry your hands. Hands-free air dryers have recently been proven to blast germs through the air into your face, so best to avoid them. Try flushing the toilet with a small bit of toilet paper, and because others may sadly not be as diligent about washing their hands, think about using your sleeve or a towel to open lavatory door handles when exiting.

For those times when a tap may not be handy, bring along a few travel-sized hand sanitisers to disinfect your hands. They are perfect for places like the plane or before eating a meal at a restaurant.

 

Limit direct contact with public surfaces

By limiting what you touch, you greatly reduce your chances of picking up germs and viruses. Avoid touching public surfaces like handrails, armrests, and counter-tops if possible. Many public surfaces, such as elevator buttons, ATMs, plane tray tables, luggage trolley handles, and restaurant menus, are difficult to avoid; that is why it is essential to carry hand sanitiser with you to disinfect your hands after a bout of feeling your way around the airport or hotel. Keep in mind that your hotel room is a public surface as well, with new people often entering on a daily basis.

Things like TV remotes, light switches, and hotel guides rarely get cleaned and therefore often harbour germs. Carrying disinfecting wipes makes it easy to give things a quick once-over before settling in. You can also get creative and use tricks like placing the TV remote in a Ziploc bag if you want to be over-cautious.

In addition to avoiding public surfaces, refrain from sharing things like beverages, lip balm, and eating utensils with others when travelling. You may also want to limit your handshakes when greeting others.

 

Avoid consuming tap water

While it may be safe to drink tap water from developed countries such as the United States, Australia, and many European countries, it’s always a good idea to stick with bottled water when travelling. Even regions that are considered to have safe drinking water may contain high levels of chlorine or other additives your body is unaccustomed to, which can lead to an upset stomach.

Tap water found in regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America often contains microorganisms or pathogens that can lead to Giardia, cholera, and traveller’s diarrhoea. Even if locals seem to be able to drink the water, it is often because they have built up an immunity to the impurities found in their local water.

When purchasing or choosing bottled water, make sure the seal is not broken. Many higher-end hotels and airport lounges offer bottled water free of charge, and you can easily visit a local supermarket in your travel destination to buy bottled water in bulk for a very reasonable price.

Remember to avoid putting ice in beverages, as freezing tap water doesn’t kill bacteria. You should also avoid fruit and vegetables that may have been rinsed in tap water, as they can become contaminated if they don’t have a protective skin that you yourself peel. Brush your teeth with bottled water as well, placing a bottle next to the sink in your hotel’s bathroom as a reminder. Even a small amount of contaminated water is enough to make you sick.

Our resident medical expert adds that “at-risk” individuals (as defined by the World Health Organisation), for example, people with weakened immune systems, pregnant women and infants, are groups especially at risk from waterborne disease. Cryptosporidium, for example, is a particular danger to people with weakened immune systems.

Travellers who fall into this group should make a special effort to boil water and store it in a clean container. This is the surest way to avoid waterborne disease and may be the only reliable source of Cryptosporidium-free water. Bottled water certified under national and international water quality standards is generally considered nearly as safe as boiled water.

Carmen also notes that when disinfecting water, iodine use over a long period of time is not recommended for pregnant women, those with a history of thyroid disease, and those with known hypersensitivity to iodine. Excess iodine can interfere with the functioning of the thyroid gland, and it is actually banned in Europe. Travellers intending to use iodine daily for all water consumed for more than 3-4 weeks should consult their physician beforehand, and not use it in excessive amounts when treating drinking water.

When bottled water is not available, such as on remote safaris or treks, make sure to boil water or use chlorine tablets, which can purify the local water.

You could also try handy water filters like those made by LifeStraw, which allow you to drink directly from water sources in the wild or devices like the Steripen, which use UV light to kill 99.9% of waterborne microorganisms.

Below, which was prepared by Carmen Grau, our medical expert, details the types of water purification and their pros and cons. This will help you suit your method of water purification to your travel plans.

There are five principal ways to get drinking water: by means of pads, filters, ultraviolet light, boiling and desalination.

 

Boiled

The oldest system, more useful for an emergency than for continuous use.

Advantages: effective against all types of microorganisms, provided that the boiling lasts 10 minutes. It does not add chemical products.

Disadvantages: slow, you have to wait for it to boil enough time and then cool down, it requires a metal container. Requires fuel, heavy and expensive (usually butane/propane gas).

 

Tablets

A good solution for those who drink water only sporadically.

Advantages: very light, economical (10 to 25 € per 100 tablets) and easy to use (1 tablet per litre).

Disadvantages: it entails waiting time (from 30 to 120 minutes), those of chlorine adds a strong flavour. You are ingesting chemical products.

 

Filters

They are small devices of a mechanical type with a lever for pumping, apt for clear waters with microorganisms of a bacterial type.

Advantages: they do not add flavour to the water, the most minimalists occupy little, and they are quite light (from 210 to 350 grams).

Disadvantages: expensive ($80-400), of fatiguing use (capacity of pumping 0,5 litres per minute). The ceramic, fibreglass, carbon or metal filter is usually clogged before the theoretical longevity estimated by the manufacturers, often by suspended mineral and vegetable particles.

 

UV Light

This is a great marker of sunlight, which includes an ultraviolet light lamp. It is a fairly new system and highly recommended.

Advantages: effective against all types of microorganisms, very safe, almost instantaneous (45 seconds), it does not contain harmful chemicals and allows you to enjoy the natural flavour of water. Small and very light, from 80 to 100 grams.

Disadvantages: expensive (from $150-$300), uses batteries or rechargeable batteries.

 

Desalinaters

It works by reverse osmosis, and the smallest can be carried in a backpack to make seawater drinkable

Advantages: purification of seawater to obtain water without taste or smell.

Disadvantages: expensive, heavy, fatiguing, difficult to buy, and little polyvalent.

Make sure food is cooked properly and avoid raw cuisine. Besides tap water, food is another main cause of illness while travelling. Don’t eat food that is raw or looks undercooked. Take a minute to make certain your food is cooked thoroughly. Choosing to eat food from street vendors may offer new and exciting flavours, but this often puts you at a greater risk of foodborne illnesses. Food poisoning is more common with street vendors, as temperatures may have been left refrigerated for several hours, and they are more apt to be exposed to flies.

Common food items to be extra cautious about include meats, poultry and eggs, unpasteurised dairy products, and raw seafood like oysters. Also, be mindful of areas that may be prone to long-duration power outages, which may affect refrigeration. When dining on cruise ships or in hotels, stick with ordering off a menu as opposed to lining up for the buffet, as your risk for consuming contaminated food is far greater at buffets due to more human contact with serving utensils.

 

Avoid alcohol

It’s important to stay hydrated during your travels since it helps keep your immune system and overall health running smoothly. Consuming alcohol not only leads to dehydration, but it can also lead to various side effects, such as making unwise decisions and unpleasant hangovers when consuming too much. Additionally, you open yourself up to possible drink spiking. Choosing to drink alcohol may also void travel insurance claims if it is deemed to have caused or facilitated an event or situation that you are trying to claim.

 

 

Protect against insects and get recommended vaccinations

Illnesses from insects are common throughout many parts of the world. Diseases and infections such as malaria, West Nile virus, and yellow fever can all be transmitted by mosquitoes. Make sure to pack insect repellent containing an adequate percentage of DEET to deter biting insects.

Our medical expert notes that you have three options to ensure you are properly vaccinated:

Firstly, try consulting with your international vaccination centre in the country intend to visit.

Secondly, you can receive vaccinations for many common travel diseases by visiting your local travel clinic before your holiday. Travel clinics may be better informed than your normal doctor when it comes to knowing what the risks are for certain regions, along with which immunisations are required.

Finally, you’re able to visit your general practitioner, who will be able to advise you and may be able to assist you in getting the right vaccinations.

This is important because for many countries, it is often a requirement that you receive the appropriate shots before you are granted entry.

Further protect yourself by wearing long pants and shirts with sleeves during hikes through areas with a higher density of mosquitoes, and make use of mosquito nets when they are offered. Give yourself a quick spot check after wilderness walks for insects like ticks, which can also spread illnesses such as Lyme disease.

In addition to insects, avoid close contact with both wild animals and livestock that may spread disease. Zoonotic diseases, or those which are spread from animals to humans, can all be picked up from animals, including dogs, birds, bats, monkeys, and even camels. It is wise to simply look and not touch. Familiarise yourself with venomous species that may be present in your chosen travel destination as well.

 

Get adequate sleep and maintain fitness

It is important to get enough sleep during your travels as excited as you may be to experience as much as you can. Getting adequate sleep is essential for keeping our immune system functioning at its best. Getting enough sleep should be a priority before your trip even begins, making sure to get a good 8 hours in the night before you set off.

Jet lag can be avoided by splitting your trip up with stopovers, avoiding sleeping pills and caffeine, and choosing flights that don’t arrive at night. Keep in mind it usually takes a full day or two to recover from passing through different time zones. Don’t overload your itinerary too much in the beginning.

Take advantage of your hotel’s gym if one is offered, as just a short fitness routine each day will help give you energy to tackle attractions. Staying on top of your fitness will not only fight off extra kilos, it can also help boost your immune system to fight off illnesses. Even if you aren’t fond of the gym, you can stay fit while travelling by simply doing things like choosing to walk around a city rather than taking taxis and engaging in active activities.

It is also wise to give yourself a few days off from work to recover from your holiday. You may have made it through your trip without illness, only to put yourself at risk at home by rushing right back into things too quickly.

 

 

Avoid swimming in unsanitary waters

A range of gastrointestinal illnesses and infections can be picked up by swimming in unsanitary waters. Avoid swimming in rivers and lakes after heavy rainfall or ones that might receive runoff from nearby farms. Hot, shallow, and poorly circulating water is the worst when it comes to potentially containing harmful bacteria. Even waters in developed nations can harbour things like brain-eating amoebas, which prefer the same warm waters that attract holiday-makers.

Even spending time at water parks and pools can lead to gastrointestinal problems due to faecal bacteria being present. Don’t count on chlorine to make the water safe. Instead, avoid dunking your head under water and cover up any cuts you may have.

 

 

Remember to pack your prescriptions and OTC medications

Always pack more than you’ll need for any prescription medicines that you are dependent upon. Travel disruptions due to things like unforeseen events or natural disasters may mean you don’t return home when you were scheduled to. Simply bringing along written prescriptions may not be adequate, as they may not be accepted in your travel destination, or they may not be available. One should also research whether more uncommon medications are allowed in the country you are travelling to, something travel clinics should be able to provide information about.

Pack a first aid kit to treat small scrapes and cuts that may otherwise lead to infection, and throw in some common OTC travel medicine. Should you get sick while travelling, at least you may be able to ease minor aches and pains with things like cold and flu medicine, ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen or Panadol) and loperamide hydrochloride (e.g. Imodium).

Remember to pack motion sickness tablets for cruise travel as well as extra contact lenses or a spare pair of glasses. You may also want to pack saline solution to disinfect contact lenses, as it can often be difficult to find in certain areas.

We hope that these detailed holiday hints help you to make your next adventure the best one ever!

5 things you should always have in your carry on

29th May, 2019

When it comes to travelling, one of the first challenges is figuring out what to pack.

Not all airlines are kind enough to include a checked bag or two with the purchase of a ticket, leaving many passengers trying to restrict their luggage to solely carry-on for short trips.

To make things even more challenging, weight restrictions for carry-on luggage seem to only be getting stricter every year.

If you’re looking to avoid having to check bags for short trips or wondering what essential items should make the cut for your next carry-on packing list, take a look at our top 5 things you should always pack in your carry-on bag.

Medications

The chance of your checked luggage being lost or misplaced may be extremely low,  but you don’t want to risk your health by packing your essential medications in your checked luggage.

Prescription medications and over the counter drugs weigh next to nothing and take up very little space, but they can end up literally saving your life or at least providing much needed comfort during your travels if you become sick.

You should always pack more medication than you will need, since instances of travel delays or natural disasters can prevent you from returning home on time. Note that written prescriptions may not be accepted in all foreign chemists and simple OTC medications like cold and flu tablets or anti-diarrhoea medicine may not be readily available in your holiday destination.

Be sure to also bring an extra pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses if you require them. It is important to discuss with your doctor if your prescription medications and any OTC drugs you plan on taking with you are allowed in the country you are travelling to.

You also want to make sure you disclose any pre-existing medical conditions with your travel insurer.

Hand sanitiser or sanitising wipes

According to numerous scientific findings, the dirtiest areas of a plane 2 are found right where you sit.

Your headrest, seat pocket, tray table, and seat belt are the worst offenders when it comes to harbouring germs and bacteria. Some estimates say you may be 100 times more likely to catch a cold 3 or other virus on a plane as opposed to ground transportation.

The last thing you want is to get sick before your trip even starts. Protect yourself from many types of bacteria, fungus, and some viruses by carrying and using hand sanitiser frequently during your flight. This is especially important before eating plane meals. Sanitiser wipes are great for wiping down your tray table, seat belt, and arm rests.

Airplane bathrooms don’t exactly make it easy to thoroughly and effectively wash your hands either. It’s also not certain that everyone does indeed wash their hands before exiting the bathrooms, meaning using the door latch as you exit can sadly reinfect your hands.

Valuables and fragile items

The only true way to protect yourself from items being stolen from your checked bags is to pack them in your carry-on instead. Avoid placing expensive jewellery, electronics, and camera equipment in your checked bags no matter what airline or airport you use.

Airports are fast paced businesses and there just isn’t always the time to provide the necessary care and attention that your bags deserve.

A spare change of clothes

If your checked bag happens to be one of the unfortunate ones to go missing, it pays to have a spare change of clothes in your carry-on at your disposal.

Most bags that don’t end up on the luggage carousel are usually recovered within 24-48 hours and will often be delivered directly to your hotel when they arrive at your holiday destination.

Having a spare set of clothes or two will allow you to make it through this period without having to go shopping. Keep in mind that clothing stores may not always be open or available, especially during special holiday periods.

There are many ways your bags can go missing including not making the flight with you when there is a quick connecting flight, being mislabelled and sent to the wrong airport, or general theft.

The main thing to do is not panic if your bags go missing. There are many things you can do to help recover your bags and having travel insurance may be able to help you to recover reasonable costs associated with buying essential items if your bags go missing for more than 24 hours.

It is also a good idea to have smaller children pack a spare change of clothes in their carry-on in case they happen to have an accident during the flight and require a change of clothes.

Entertainment

While most international flights are equipped with personal in-flight entertainment screens, they aren’t always guaranteed to work.

Bringing along a phone or iPad can be a lifesaver during long international flights or shorter domestic flights that don’t offer entertainment. Noise-cancelling headphones can drown out noisy passengers and engine noise, allowing you to get lost in a good movie or find sleep.

Free up weight and space in your carry-on by replacing actual books with digital ones. Downloading music takes up no extra physical space and can help you relax if you have a fear of flying.

Small children may find it difficult to use or reach their in-flight entertainment system. Bringing along a device they are used to, with games or videos they enjoy, can make the flight much more enjoyable for both them and you.

Final tips

When considering what type of carry-on bag to use, note that wheeled bags may provide more convenience but are often much heavier and offer less storage space than a backpack or duffel.

But, before you even begin to pull your bag out to pack, consider buying travel insurance. Travel insurance for your trip may prove to be the most important thing you take with you during your travels and it literally won’t take up any space.

Domestic Travel Insurance And Your Sports and Activities

13th July, 2021

If you’re a lover of adventure and always ensure there is a sport or activity in your travel itinerary, but never quite understood whether you were covered, and what coverage even meant for you, then we are here to break it down. Whilst our national border is shut, now is such a fantastic time to explore what this amazing country has to offer, but before you depart, don’t forget to pack domestic travel insurance.  Please remember to check for any developments with domestic travel restrictions before booking your next domestic holiday.

What coverage for your sports and activity means for you when travelling domestically?

Our Domestic travel insurance policy covers a wide array of unforeseen events, but in the context of sports and activities, the following sections of our policy specifically applies; Section E: Accidental Death and Permanent Disability, as well as Section F: Personal Liability.

Section E: Personal Death and Permanent Disability

I know it is all a bit morbid, and the last thing you want to think about when booking adrenaline inducing activities, but there is always a level of risk in most things we do.

If whilst participating in the covered sport and/or activity domestically, and yourself, or any other party insured on our policy experiences an injury that within 12 consecutive months directly results in death or coverable permanent disability, you or your estate will be paid by us. We know this is heavy, so to lighten the mood, we are sure the most that will happen on your holiday is loss of pride.

Section F: Personal Liability

Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, we end up injuring someone else, or damaging someone else’s property, and this can occur when participating in a sport and activity. A good example of this is cycling; you may take all the precautions in the world, but if there is an accidental collision with a person, resulting in their injury or belongings, this is where this section could come into play.

Please note, exclusions do apply to all sections, which are easily identifiable in our Policy Disclosure Statement (PDS). In addition, Section E is not available for Bare Essential policy holders.

Medical: 

No section of our domestic travel insurance policy provides coverage for medically related expenses incurred, as Medicare is in place for such events.

How to know if your pre-booked sport and activity is covered?

Our Domestic travel insurance policy provides coverage automatically to more than 40 sports and activities such as bungee jumping, cycling, parasailing and so forth. Please keep in mind though coverage is only available if you follow the safety guidelines when participating and when applicable you use appropriate and recommended safety equipment. We do have a table of covered sports and activities in the PDS, which also details which sections of cover apply but if your activity is not listed, cover is available provided it can be undertaken by persons of all ages and general health, as well as the activity not requiring specialised equipment or a high level of fitness.

How to know if your sport and activity is not covered?

There are some sports and activities that are not covered at all, and a list is available in the PDS to provide examples, but essentially the activity cannot be part of a competition or tournament, and the activity cannot be partaken on a professional basis. If you’re not sure, our customer service team is always available to double check for you.

Are Winter Sports automatically covered?

If you are planning to hit the slopes, you can purchase our add-on Winter Sports product, in addition to your domestic travel insurance policy. This product provides coverage for winter sports equipment, lift passes, piste closure and more. More information of this product is available within the PDS.

We hope this has at the very least provided a deeper understanding of how we can be there for you when it comes to sports and activities. If you still have burning questions, do not hesitate to contact us.

3 Hot Holiday Destinations to Escape Aussie Winter

30th July, 2018

 

If you find yourself with a case of the winter blues, then warm yourself up to the idea of booking a hot holiday to boost your spirits. While most of Australia may currently be suffering through the chill, the rest of the world is hitting the beaches and enjoying the dog days of summer.

Although you may be tempted by just about anywhere offering 30+ degree temps again, it pays to select a destination that is sure to maximise your fun in the sun.

So we’ve rounded up the top 3 hot holiday destinations that are sure to stop your shivering and give you some colour.

And remember: you may be able to escape winter but you can’t always avoid travel misfortune. Make sure to protect yourself with travel insurance in case your holiday in the sun has a few unforeseen rain clouds.

Portugal

Why not trade Australian winter for European summer by taking a holiday to Portugal?

July and August bring the hottest and driest weather Portugal sees all year, where you are almost certain to experience abundant sunshine nearly every day. With over 1700 kilometres of coastline, Portugal has no shortage of stunning beaches to choose from. You’ll find some of its most famous centred along the Algarve coast. Many polls rate Algarve as the top place to retire in the world and it’s not hard to understand why. Here you will find golden sands set to a backdrop of towering cliffs. It is a place where you can build sandcastles in the shadows of real life castles.

When you are done getting your fill of sunshine, head to one of several Michelin Star restaurants located not only in Algarve but across Portugal. You then have the Azores, an archipelago of nine subtropical volcanic islands located in the North Atlantic. Here you can sample delicious cuisine, work up a sweat hiking Mount Pico, search for migrating whales, or try your hand at paddleboarding. Dine on grilled limpets or try cozido, a traditional Portuguese stew that is cooked in volcanic soil.

Relax the day away in a soothing 40 degree Celsius geothermal pool infused with essential minerals. Geothermal pools such as the one found at Terra Nostra Garden have been used by locals since 1780. Of course you must visit Lisbon, the country’s capital, which consistently ranks as one of the top ten cities in the world.

It also lays claim to being one of the world’s oldest cities. It is a city made for lovers of architecture as well as foodies. Explore the city on its famous tuk-tuks or challenge your legs to climb the numerous hills of the city for breathtaking panoramic views at famous lookout points. Recharge your energy by sampling mouth watering chorizo or check out the city’s unbelievable bakeries. Lisbon’s architecture is a smorgasbord of historical landmarks mixed with modern contemporary design. See historic fairytale looking castles such as the Tower of Belém, numerous glorious churches, and the contemporary designed MAAT museum.

Lastly, for a splash of colour and true delight you must check out Sintra. The city has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers remarkable 19th century Romanticist architecture, royal palaces, castles, and lush gardens. It is easy to see why Hans Christian Anderson called Sintra the most beautiful place in Portugal.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a real gem of a holiday destination, so much so that it is even shaped like a jewel.

July to September marks what is known as the inter-monsoon season. It is a wonderful time to travel to the country as the beaches are hot and dry with only the occasional shower. It may be a rather small island country, but it packs quite a delightful punch. British colonial heritage combines with beautiful landscapes and friendly locals.

The country has often been long overlooked by tourists that choose to go to India or Southeast Asia instead. What this means for many travellers who choose to go to Sri Lanka is the ability to experience its many attractions and thousands of years of culture without mass tourism.

The coast enjoys a warm tropical climate while the inland hills offer an escape to cooler weather. Being an island, you are never very far from a beach that offers peaceful sunbathing, world class dive sites, and surfing.

Sri Lanka is perfect for wildlife lovers, offering numerous reserves where you can partake in a safari to witness rare and endangered species. The seas contain the world’s largest animal, the blue whale, while thundering herds of wild Indian elephants roam the land. National parks such as Yala and Wilpattu offer the chance to spot elusive leopards and sloths.

July offers the chance to witness the annual Esala Perahera Festival, allowing you to really dive into the local culture. See Buddhist temples such as Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Be sure to take in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle where you will explore cities like Kandy, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa.

Escape to the Northern Province for the ultimate seclusion and off the beaten path treasures.

Vietnam

You are sure to encounter high temps in Vietnam during the summer months of June-August. The key is to avoid the heavy rains that accompany it. While much of the country experiences its heaviest rainfall during this time, Central Vietnam experiences hot, dry weather until around September when the rains come.

Central Vietnam is quickly becoming recognised as a top travel destination with emerging cities such as Danang offering modern hotels and conveniences to travellers. It is here where you will find some of the country’s best beaches as well, including Non Nuoc Beach and My Khe Beach.

Explore the world’s largest cave in Phong Nha Ke-Bang National Park, or marvel at the many ruins and temples of the region.

If you’re travelling with your partner, check out the romantic riverside atmosphere of Hoi An. You’ll find a relaxing town with wonderful shopping, nearby golf courses, and the countryside landscape of Kim Bong Island. Hoi An’s pedestrian friendly streets makes it perfect to explore on foot. Taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine and be sure to check out the charm of Old Town.

Keen on history? Then take a day trip to explore Mỹ Sơn, a collection of over 70 Hindu temples and ruins.

Our guide to the best Great Barrier Reef experience

22nd August, 2018

 

Covering roughly 344,000 square kilometres, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system.

A national symbol of Australia, this great natural wonder of the world offers vital habitat for an abundance of marine life. The Great Barrier Reef has become one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations. It is a living breathing ecosystem that offers an abundance of underwater recreation, some 900 idyllic islands, and extraordinary wildlife experiences.

Take a look at our helpful 2018 Great Barrier Reef Guide to start planning your own memorable Great Barrier Reef Experience. Pack your bathers and sunscreen, and dive into a truly unforgettable holiday. And don’t forget to buy travel insurance before you leave, you can get a quote and buy now on our website.

 

The Great Barrier Reef and why it’s so special

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Great Barrier Reef is Earth’s largest living structure.

Just offshore the Queensland Coast, running from Bundaberg to the tip of Cape York, the GBR is home to some of the world’s greatest underwater adventures.

Due to the reef’s easy accessibility, nearly 2 million people visit the GBR annually. Visitors flock to the reef to experience the vast array of marine life the reef supports as well as to relax in year-round beautiful weather.

Reefs protect coastlines from being severely altered by tropical storms and provide essential nutrients for the marine food chain to function. Due to the fact so many species of fish spawn and grow up in the reef, it is also vital to the local fishing industry.

The Great Barrier Reef is not a single reef, rather it is made up of thousands of smaller reefs. The islands and sandy cays within the reef provide some of the most spectacular maritime scenery in the world and create a complex natural ecosystem with a rich biodiversity.

These are just a few reasons why we need to protect the reef and we have yet to fully understand all the many benefits the reef has to offer.

 

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef

Experiencing the reef by air or sea is easy, with hundreds of tour operators at your service.

Most visitors looking to experience the reef will fly into Cairns but you can catch flights to other coastal cities offering reef access as well as direct flights to GBR islands such as Hamilton Island from Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane.

Enjoy easy access to the Whitsundays from Airlie Beach or take the ferry from Cairns to Fitzroy Island. Places like Mission Beach and Townsville offer great day trips to the reef as well as extended journeys. Visit Port Douglas to experience the incredible Daintree Rainforest in addition to the numerous Great Barrier Reef experiences offered.

How you decide to experience the reef is as varied as the destinations that act as bases for your explorations.

Snorkel and dive tours offer the best way to fully immerse yourself in the living reef, offering up close and personal experiences with its abundant marine life.

Those not comfortable diving beneath the surface can opt for a glass-bottomed boat tour. These tours allow visitors to travel over shallow reefs where they can spot all kinds of corals, fish, sea turtles, and giant 100+ year-old clams without getting their feet wet.

Choose from several different boating options including lavish yachts, cruise ships, and romantic sailboats. In fact, liveaboard boat tours are great for venturing deep into the reef where you get to spend several days to weeks exploring numerous islands and dive sites. Enjoy your own private cabin, spacious decks, WiFi, catered meals, and knowledgeable guides.

Those prone to sea sickness can choose to take a scenic helicopter or seaplane flight over the reef, taking in the famous Heart Reef and Whitsunday Islands.

Flights over the reef usually include stopovers on a remote island or coral cay where you can enjoy lunch and explore the shoreline.

You can also find unique Seawalker experiences as well as submarine adventures.

 

Must see islands

While visiting every Great Barrier Reef island would take several visits, many of its most notable islands can be experienced during a single trip.

GBR islands offer a wide range of accommodation options including beachside bungalows, lavish 5-star resorts, and adventurous campsites. Here are some of our favourite must-visit Great Barrier Reef islands.

• Fitzroy Island: A mountainous rainforest oasis, Fitzroy Island is a national park that is easily reached by a 45-minute ferry from Cairns. Teeming with wildlife both onshore and in the surrounding reef, Fitzroy offers many water-based adventures, great hikes, and the chance to visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. The Fitzroy Island Resort offers accommodation options ranging from campsites to deluxe suites.
• Lizard Island: Australia’s northernmost island resort, Lizard Island is a pure tropical paradise with its two dozen white-sand beaches. Named by Captain James Cook for the numerous monitor lizards found on the island, Lizard Island is also home to a Great Barrier Reef research station and luxury resort. The resort offers trips to the world-famous Cod Hole dive site.
• Green Island: This tropical cay is just a short trip from Cairns by way of ferry, charter boat, helicopter, or seaplane. This rainforest-covered cay is rather small, making it great for day tours. Experience a variety of birdlife, exotic plants, and great snorkelling sites.
• Heron Island: This small island in the southern GBR can be accessed from Gladstone on the mainland. You will find 10 dive sites within 15 minutes of the island, making this a great option for divers and snorkelers. The island is home to a resort that offers a rare chance to log off from the real world as it offers no TVs, no mobile phone coverage, and limited internet.
• Hamilton Island: The only GBR island with a commercial airport, Hamilton Island can be reached by direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns. Located in the heart of the beautiful Whitsundays, Hamilton Island is a year-round holiday hotspot. If you’re looking for a single island the whole family can enjoy, then Hamilton is your type of island. The island offers a wealth of accommodation options and exciting activities to take part in. Take a day trip to the famous Whitehaven Beach, dine at award-winning restaurants, paddleboard off Catseye Beach, book a fishing charter, play a round of golf, or simply relax in a world-class spa.

Best wildlife experiences

The Great Barrier Reef is an underwater Serengeti that offers incredible marine safaris found nowhere else.

The reef is home to microscopic plankton all the way up to giant humpback whales which migrate from Antarctic waters to breed here. The calm waters provide critical habitat for endangered marine life such as dugongs and six species of sea turtles that come ashore throughout the reef to lay their eggs.

Feel what it’s like to be a marine biologist as you witness the world’s largest collection of corals and be captivated by tropical fish of every shape, size, and colour.

Play a version of “Where’s Wally” as you try to spot Nemo, the adorable clownfish, amongst more than 1,500 species of fish.

Swim with giant manta rays, with their 7-metre wide wing-like fins, off Lady Elliot Island and search for dozens of shark species. Most sharks in the reef are harmless and include the white-tip and black-tip reef sharks.

As you snorkel or scuba dive the reef, you are almost guaranteed to make new friends like the Maori wrasse and potato cod who are all too eager to follow you around out of curiosity.

Even above the water you can spot wildlife as you cruise alongside bottlenose and spinner dolphins in the Whitsundays or scan the horizon for migrating minke whales.

Come Oct-Dec, love may not be in the air but it will definitely be beneath the waters of the reef. Mass synchronised coral spawning takes place after sunset and offers up a magical underwater snowstorm that lasts up to a week.

Above water, hundreds of species of birds including sea eagles and frigatebirds visit or breed on the reef’s beautiful islands.

Take a guided tour to watch sea turtles lay eggs and even witness the baby turtles hatching at the Mon Repos Turtle Centre during the turtle nesting season.

In addition to the abundant Great Barrier Reef marine life you’ll spot, the Far North Queensland mainland offers the chance to spot giant flightless cassowaries, tree kangaroos, saltwater crocodiles, and vibrant tropical butterflies.

 

The future of the Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park protects a large area of the Great Barrier Reef from harmful activities.

Although tourism, fishing, and recreation are allowed in the park, all activities are strictly regulated so as to minimise harmful impacts.

Permanent anchorage points have been established along with boating speed limits to lessen the damage to the reef.

The Great Barrier Reef has suffered recently from coral bleaching brought on by climate change as well as cyclic outbreaks of the crown-of-thorns starfish.

but fortunately, it was recently announced that the Great Barrier Reef Foundation would receive a $444 million grant to aid in reef recovery and protection efforts. Nearly 20 years running, the foundation has managed to raise $90 million for reef projects that go to the heart of saving coral reefs and the animals that depend on them.

They work closely with Australia’s leading scientists from organisations like CSIRO as well as the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

And although nearly 90% of the Great Barrier Reef shows evidence of bleaching, it remains better off than most other coral reef ecosystems around the world thanks to effective protection and management strategies.

Looking to the future, the Australian government is devoted to making the reef more resilient to climate change as well as decreasing catchment run-off and loss of coastal habitats from development.

Protecting the reef is essential to make sure future generations can enjoy the Great Barrier Reef experiences we have today. It is also vital for the local communities that depend on them.

By continuing to show support for the reef through donations and tourism, we can hopefully keep the reef alive and well-preserved for generations to come.

Things to pack in your carry-on for health and comfort on flights

16th of January, 2020

You may go to great lengths to secure comfortable accommodation and get your required immunisations for your holiday, but how much time do you spend thinking about your comfort and health during flights, particularly long-haul flights?

It’s a well-known fact that planes are a hotspot for germs and viruses, and unless you’re lucky enough to be in First or Business Class it can be difficult to find comfort. Thankfully there are ways you can improve the level of comfort you experience on flights and ways to reduce the chances of you starting of your trip getting sick.

We have created a comprehensive packing list for what you should include in your carry-on the next time you travel.

The list includes many small and lightweight items that won’t take up too much space but can make a world of difference when it comes to your comfort and health. Before you begin packing for your next holiday, be sure to purchase travel insurance.

Having a safety net you can rely on in case your travel plans don’t go smoothly will help you rest easy on your next flight knowing you’re covered for many of things that the unpredictable world of travel can throw your way.

Medications

The most important items to pack in your carry-on luggage are all your necessary medications.

Whether you require medication for conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, having your medication available throughout your flight could potentially save your life in extreme cases. For instance, if you are prone to severe allergies which may pose a risk on flights, be sure to carry an EpiPen. Don’t forget to also pack an extra pair of eyeglasses and several pairs of spare contacts in case they become damaged or lost during the flight.

Even if you won’t need to take your medication during the flight, it’s always safer to pack your medicines in your carry-on in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed. Be sure to also pack any OTC medications you think you may need since some medications may be hard to come by in certain countries. Always talk to your doctor before your trip to make sure your prescribed and OTC medications will be allowed in the country you are travelling to, as there may be restrictions relating to certain drugs.

Always pack more medication than you think you’ll need for your trip in case you face travel delays caused by instances such as cancelled flights or natural disasters. Be sure to declare all of your pre-existing medical conditions when purchasing travel insurance as failing to do so may void your policy or result in certain claims being denied. InsureandGo considers all pre-existing medical conditions, and many conditions may be covered free of charge.

Hand sanitiser or sanitising wipes

You have probably heard that planes aren’t exactly the most hygienic places.

While some areas of planes may be cleaned between flights, many areas are left untouched for quite some time. A number of studies have shown you are much more likely to catch a virus on a plane than when taking ground transportation. Somewhat frighteningly, many of the dirtiest spots on a plane are right where you sit. Items like your tray table, personal entertainment screen, seat belt, seat pocket, and in-flight magazines have been shown to have high concentrations of germs and bacteria.

While you can’t demand that an airline clean the entire plane before your flight, you can carry a travel-size bottle of hand sanitiser and sanitising wipes to do your quick clean of your area. Simply wiping down the items you will come into contact with most frequently during your flight can reduce your chances of being affected by things like viruses and varieties of fungus.

Aeroplane bathroom sinks aren’t that effective for properly washing hands, therefore it pays to carry sanitiser that you can use when you return to your seat. Be especially vigilant about sanitising your hands before digging into your in-flight meals and snacks.

Spare change of clothes

Packing a spare change of clothes in your carry-on is not only a good idea in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed, but it can also come in handy for instances where something is spilled on you or you suffer an accident. Running around an airport can also force you to break a sweat, and having a spare change of dry clothes allows you to slip into something drier and more comfortable for your flight.

Remember to pack a spare change of clothes for your children as well, since children are more prone to spills and accidents. Women will want to make sure to pack any sanitary items they may require during the flight and nursing women may wish to have a few spare dry shirts they can slip into if necessary.

Neck pillow

Unless you’re seated in First or Business Class, falling asleep on a plane can often seem futile.

The pillows supplied by airlines aren’t exactly the most state-of-the-art things to rest your head on so it is usually wise to bring your own. Neck pillows specifically designed for flight travel come in just about every shape, size, and colour imaginable these days. Styles include the classic u-shape, the infinity design, the complete wrap-around, and even one that winds across your body much like a seatbelt.

The key is to try out and select a neck pillow that both fits you and feels comfortable. What works for one person may be useless to another, therefore purchasing a neck pillow online without trying first can be risky. You of course want a pillow that offers good neck support and one that isn’t too cumbersome to carry onboard with you. Some neck pillows can be rather bulky while others are inflatable and pack away quite easily when not in use. Some even have built-in massagers for even more added comfort during your flight. Some also come equipped with zippered pockets in which you can store items like eye masks and earplugs which are items we will discuss further in a moment.

Getting a good rest during a flight allows you to not have to make your way through customs or baggage claim feeling and looking like a zombie.

Earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones

Increase your chances of falling asleep even further by packing some quality earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones. Both can help drown out plane engine noise and nearby crying babies. Some earplugs are the basic disposable type often given out to some passengers of certain airlines, while others are more durable and reusable with their own handy storage case.

Disposable varieties are good for the fact they minimise the chances of ear infections. If you decide to use reusable varieties, be sure to clean or disinfect them often to avoid ear infections. Ear plugs are designed using a variety of materials including silicone, PVC foam, and polyurethane. In addition to blocking out sound, certain earplugs are specially designed to help relieve discomfort relating to air pressure differences while flying.

Noise-cancelling headphones can also block out unwanted sounds but also have the benefit of introducing soothing sounds. Anxious flyers can download helpful meditation apps or calming music to help ease their anxiety and stress.

Eye Mask

Many people require total darkness in order to fall asleep and this can be hard to come by on daytime flights and even overnight flights where planes are usually lit up with passenger entrainment screens and safety lights.

Ensure darkness and give yourself a better chance to fall asleep by packing an eye mask. While the cheap wafer-thin masks are uncomfortable and do little to block out all light, there are more quality masks available that conform to the shape of your head and completely block out everything. Some are designed to work well with those wearing makeup and others are made of materials that are safe for sensitive skin.

When shopping for a mask, look for one that is breathable and doesn’t put too much pressure on your eyes or the bridge of your nose. You also want a mask that will stay in place when you move around. Masks can also be useful for flyers suffering from autism who experience visual sensitivity.

Lip balm and lotion

An airline cabin is a very dry environment, with humidity levels commonly well below 20%. To avoid your skin drying out, be sure to pack travel-size bottles of your favourite face and hand moisturisers. You’ll also want to carry a lip balm, moisturizing eye drops, and possibly a nasal spray if you are prone to these areas drying out easily.

Staying hydrated during your flight will also go a long way to preventing your skin from drying out. Aim to drink at least 200-250 mL of water every hour you’re in the air and avoid consuming alcohol. Staying hydrated will aid your body’s immune system to function properly.

Blanket or light jacket

Many passengers find it to be rather chilly during flights, making it wise to always pack a light jacket or blanket.

While some airlines may provide free blankets, there is no guarantee that there will be enough available and you don’t exactly know how or when they were last cleaned.

Plane cabin temperatures are in fact not that cold, with the average temperature usually being kept around 23°C. This can seem colder since you are usually seated and aren’t moving around much to generate heat. One reason why planes are kept on the cooler side is that it helps avoid passengers fainting from hypoxia, which is sometimes caused when body tissues are deprived of oxygen. Cooler temperatures can also help to prevent motion sickness.

Simply put on that extra layer you packed in your carry-on and be thankful that you don’t have to face the temperatures that are often present on the outside of the aircraft during a flight which can reach as low as -50°C.

Snacks

While many domestic flights across Australia are short trips, our international journeys are often long-haul affairs.

Spending upwards of 15-17 hours on a plane provides a lot of time to get hungry. It’s always wise to pack a few of your favourite snacks to keep your cravings under control. Food can act as both energy and comfort.

It is also wise to pack your own snacks if you have specific allergies and aren’t certain the airline will be able to provide you with snacks that are safe for you to consume. Even if you get hungry on shorter flights, it pays to bring your own snacks since food items usually carry a much higher price tag when purchased from the airline.

Compression Socks

Some passengers may be at a higher risk of developing DVT or deep vein thrombosis.

Sitting in cramped spaces for extended periods of time can lead to the formation of blood clots in your legs. Those who are commonly more susceptible to this condition include older individuals, those who are considered overweight or obese, and those with circulation problems.

You can reduce your chances of developing DVT by wearing compression socks, which help prevent clots by gently forcing your blood to keep moving through light pressure. They’ll also help keep your feet and lower legs warm during the flight.

These Common Travel Fails Prove the Importance of Having Insurance

11th of November, 2019

We’ve all encountered travel mishaps on the road; either the airline losing your luggage, or a nasty case of food poisoning, or you’re stuck in a foreign country because your passport has been stolen.

There’s nothing worse than being hit with a travel fail when you’re trying to enjoy your holiday, but they do happen, and it’s important to remember that we’re not always untouchable when travelling abroad.

It’s very easy to think that we’re invincible, and Bali Belly will never happen to you! We have created stories below and although these stories were not sourced from real customers; they are based on real-life scenarios that happen to Australian travellers every day.

We have created them to highlight the importance of always travelling with insurance, because you may need it for a diverse range of travel fails”..

Jasper was locked in his cabin for a whole 7-day cruise

“Last time I’ll ever fess up to being sick on a cruise. After seeing the cruise nurse for what I thought was sea sickness, and then being told I had the flu, I ended up in quarantine and wasn’t allowed to leave my cabin for essentially the whole 7-day cruise.

While my mates were out island hopping across Noumea, Fiji, and Vanuatu, I was watching movies on repeat, and squinting out at the scenery from a port-sized circular window – I could have at least been confined to a balcony room! My mates were good enough to bring down buffet food, though weren’t super keen on keeping me company in my germ-infested room. Zero refund from the cruise company, though at least travel insurance kicked in – who knew cabin confinement was even a thing!” – Jasper Thomas

We hear about outbreaks of gastrointestinal illnesses on cruise ships a lot in the news, and should an outbreak occur on your cruise, you’ll likely be quarantined to your cabin to prevent the illness from spreading to other passengers. It’s not an ideal situation, but norovirus spreads quickly in enclosed spaces like a cruise, where large numbers of people are touching the same hand railings, eating from the same buffet, and using the same bathrooms, so it’s a necessary precaution. The best way to avoid sickness on a cruise is good hygiene – wash your hands before eating, and travel with a bottle of hand sanitiser for use after you have touched public spaces like handrails, door handles, or elevator buttons.

If you are confined to your cabin for medical reasons as advised by a ship medical officer, Cruise policies will pay up to $75 for every 24 hours a passenger is confined up to the defined amount outlined in the table of benefits in our Silver and Gold cruise policies.

Casey got bitten by a snake in Arizona

“It was THE scariest thing – we were out hiking up Camelback Mountain, which is a pretty popular hiking spot in Phoenix (as everybody does it, locals jog there in the morning kind of thing) – And I was really enjoying my hike. Then all of a sudden I got bitten just under my knee by something that felt like a bee sting. My friends were freaking out because they’d seen me step on it – it was a massive rattlesnake, but it had been so well camouflaged that I just didn’t see it.

It happens so fast that you just go into shock, and don’t really believe that something that serious has actually happened. There wasn’t any real pain or swelling, and I wasn’t throwing up or dizzy or anything, so I would have been happy to keep on hiking, but I guess I got really lucky – by the time we got to the hospital they told me it was a dry bite which meant the snake hadn’t actually injected any venom. That said, the puncture wound was still pretty impressive.

You wouldn’t believe how much money an emergency ambulance and being in a hospital in the US would have cost me – and then supposedly if I had actually needed antivenom that alone would have been $14,000 USD!!! There is no way I would have afforded that without insurance to cover me.” – Casey Avery

Medical care in the United States is among the most expensive in the world, and when it comes to treating snakebite, the costs of being treated can leave you with a debt in the hundreds of thousands. Kaiser Health News recently reported on a 9-year-old whose parents were sent an outrageous $142,938 bill for an air ambulance and four vials of antivenom. If you become ill or injured while overseas, medical insurance can pay for some or all of the costs that accumulate when you receive medical treatment.

Thea got stuck in the Solomon Islands for 5 days, without insurance

“I actually didn’t have travel insurance, which sucked massively, though fortunately, I managed to bunk down in a hotel room with a friend who was covered so I didn’t have to pay out of pocket.

We had just spent 9 days in the Solomons, which was epic – it’s such a beautiful country – but our flight home got cancelled due to weather. Fine – you usually just have to sit in the airport until it gets rescheduled, though flights from the Solomons only fly out on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We were supposed to fly out on a Thursday, and our cancelled flight meant that the next one wasn’t until 5 days later. While the airline rebooked us onto the Tuesday flight, we had to scramble for what to do and where to stay for another 5 days; not overly terrible being stuck on a tropical island, but when you haven’t budgeted for it, 5 days of food and accommodation put a massive hole in your pocket. I had to do some serious grovelling to be able to share a room with my best friend and her boyfriend, and won’t be travelling without insurance ever again! I don’t think the boyfriend appreciated my third-wheel presence.” – Thea Lee-Smith

According to Flightstats.com, 7,400 + flights are cancelled every week around the globe, for reasons that vary from inclement weather to security, mechanical issues, and even missing crew. The good news, though, is that you can potentially get some money back from your travel insurance. The funds can go towards essential items caused due to the delay, such as meals or toiletries you’ve had to buy because you’re stuck at the airport or even something like transit accommodation.

“A monkey stole my mobile phone”

“Legit – I’m not even kidding. I was in Hau Hin in Thailand and a monkey stole my mobile phone. It was locked in my hotel room, but he broke in through the window, went through my stuff, and ran off with my phone!! It sounds like the beginning of a Hangover movie, but the room was absolutely ransacked – I had heard of monkeys snatching glasses and money off people, and ripping out people’s jewellery, but had never heard of them breaking into hotel rooms!

“I ended up having to spend a whole day filing a police report, changing my passwords, and organizing a new number. At least insurance covered the cost of the replacement. I would say that it did really help at least having had a backup of my contacts” – Amy Wilson

According to the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA), 100,000 Australian mobile phones are lost or stolen every year. InsureandGo will pay up to the amount shown in the table of benefits for the cost of replacing your personal belongings if lost, stolen or damaged during your trip. Even by monkeys! We pay for items owned (not rented), though in the case of mobile phones, please see the table of benefits for the sub-limits which, dependent on the level of cover you have selected, may apply. To successfully claim a stolen mobile phone, you will need to supply the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity), block the IMEI number (by Australian telecommunication providers) of the stolen or lost mobile phone device and make sure for stolen items you will need to immediately report it to the overseas police.

Travel Insurance Checklist – Tips on Choosing the Right Cover

Getting the most out of your travel insurance is all about having the right policy to begin with, but it can be a little overwhelming trying to determine which level of cover is right for you. We have put together some tips that may be useful when determining your travel insurance cover:

Destinations: Are all my destinations covered?

This is easy to determine if you’re going on a single-destination holiday (e.g. Paris), but if you are travelling to multiple destinations, ensure they are all covered. Your destinations should include anywhere you choose to stop over (even for just one night) or any places that you might visit as part of a cruise trip or tour.

Medical: Do I have the right level of medical cover?

It is important that you understand how much coverage you have and under what circumstances the medical cover applies. If you’ve got a pre-existing medical condition, you’ll also need to confirm that this doesn’t exclude you from the cover you want to buy. You should also gain a clear idea of what excesses you will be required to pay before your medical cover kicks in.

• Read more about cover for pre-existing medical conditions here

Personal Belongings: How much of my baggage & belongings are covered?

Most travel insurance policies will provide some level of cover for your personal belongings. The key lies in knowing how much you are covered for – e.g. $500 or $5,000 – and if this enough to protect all of your baggage and belongings. If not, you may want to change your policy or consider upgrading for specific items.

Valuables: Am I taking any valuables with me?

You should never assume that any valuables will be automatically covered by your insurance policy. Common items like passports, phones, laptops, cameras, tablets, sunglasses and jewellery are often excluded from cover, particularly when it comes to the lower-level/basic policies. Make sure you read the Product Disclosure Statement to gain an understanding of whether your valuables are protected and under what circumstances you can make a claim.

Sports & Activities: If I’m injured (or fall ill) while partaking in certain activities, will my insurance cover me?

Certain activities, like motorcycling or white water rafting, mean there is a higher risk that you could become injured while on holiday. Hence, you should check whether your policy covers you for the specific activities you will be engaging in and what the terms and conditions of these activities are (e.g. if you are scuba diving, you may only be covered to a certain depth).

Cancellations: If I have to cancel my trip, do I want my money back?

Things don’t always go according to plan, and there may be some unexpected events that require you to cancel your trip. If you do, you’ll need to check that cancellation is part of your travel insurance policy. If you have the right cover, you may be able to claim lost funds from cancelled flights, accommodation, car hire, tour bookings and more. Your policy should tell you the maximum amount of money that you can claim.

Limits/Excesses: How much money do I want to pay before I can claim?

Most insurance policies can include excesses. This means that if your excess on lost baggage is $100, for example, you’ll be responsible for covering the first $100 of your losses before your insurance company will begin paying you. If you want to keep your excesses low; consider purchasing a higher level of cover or choose to waive your excesses altogether by paying a higher premium.

Exclusions: Do I understand what’s excluded from my policy?

Exclusions are a mandatory part of any insurance policy and reading your Product Disclosure Statement carefully before you purchase should give you a comprehensive view of what isn’t included in your cover. You should make note of any specific events or items that are excluded from your policy, as well as any circumstances or situations that automatically mean your losses will be excluded.

• Read about common excluded circumstances and situations here

Keep in mind that this checklist isn’t meant to be a definitive list when deciding on which travel insurance is right for you. Instead, it should give you an idea of the main areas you need to be considering when determining and purchasing your policy. If you are uncertain about any area in your travel insurance package, make sure you read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or contact our customer service agents before you buy to understand your options.

Understanding the Different Levels of Cover at Insure&Go

Insure&Go offers three different levels of travel insurance cover for you to compare and review, based on the needs of your trip.

Bare Essentials

‘Bare Essentials’ is the simplest level of cover available at Insure&Go. Bare Essentials provides basic cover for:

• Medical and emergency expenses (but not hospital expenses)
• Baggage and belongings (but not valuables, like passports, mobile phones, tablets, cameras)
• Personal liability

You should keep in mind that Bare Essentials does not cover trip cancellations, hospital benefits, valuables and travel or baggage delays.

If you require a more inclusive level of cover, it may be in your best interests to upgrade your insurance to the Silver or Gold package or consider a specific sports, business or valuables upgrade only.

Insure&Go Silver

The ‘Silver’ package provides more comprehensive travel insurance cover for your trip. It is considered the next level of cover up from ‘Bare Essentials.’

The Silver package includes:

• Medical and hospital cover
• Trip cancellations and delays
• Loss or delay of baggage/belongings
• Valuables cover, including items like money, passports, phones, laptops
• Cover for personal liability and legal expenses
• Loss of income
• Rental vehicle excess waiver

The Silver level of cover is ideal for those who want a little more than just the basic cover.

Insure&Go Gold

The ‘Gold’ package is the most comprehensive level of cover offered by Insure&Go.

The Gold level of cover is similar to the Silver, but goes a step further to offer:

• Higher levels of cover in each insurance area (e.g. $50,000 instead of $15,000)
• Cover for the costs of returning home due to an emergency and the costs associated with resuming your trip overseas
• Compensation for additional areas, such as ongoing pet care if your travels are delayed

The Gold package has been designed to bring travellers the most comprehensive policy^ available at Insure&Go.

Unsure which level of cover you need? You can compare each travel insurance option by reviewing the areas and limits offered and the excesses payable.

For all of the packages above, Insure&Go can also provide you with additional upgrades for valuables, winter sports, business equipment and even golfing equipment.

For full details on each level of cover make sure to read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or contact our customer service agents before you buy to understand your options