Why travel insurance is important?

If you are travelling overseas, or even domestically, taking out travel insurance is highly recommended by the Australian government and smartraveller.gov.au.

1. Getting help overseas

Thousands of Australians experience some kind of trouble when holidaying overseas each year.

Having the right level of travel insurance cover is critical when travelling. If you fall ill or have an accident while overseas, travel insurance can ensure that you get the best quality of care and you can be moved, either back home or to a better medical facility, if needed.

2. Travel insurance provides you with protection from medical costs

• If you require medical attention while travelling, you may be liable for the cost of your treatment if you don’t have travel insurance.
• In many countries, medical treatment for visitors can be incredibly expensive; daily hospitalization costs in Southeast Asia regularly exceed $800; the cost of medical evacuations from the United States regularly range from $75,000 to $95,000 and, in extreme cases, up to $300,000.
• Medicare will not pay or reimburse you for any medical expenses you incur overseas.

3. Travel insurance can cover disruptions to your trip

It’s no secret that when you travel, there is much that’s out of your control. Flights can be delayed or you might need to return home if an emergency occurs.

Without travel insurance, disruptions to your trip can end up costing you a fortune. In many cases, you lose the money you’ve already paid, and have to pay for new bookings too.

Many travel insurance packages will cover you for incidents that are out of your control, so that you don’t have to spend your own money if something goes wrong.

4. You can be reimbursed for your losses and expenses

If your luggage is stolen, lost or damaged overseas, you can end up significantly out of pocket – and if you don’t have travel insurance, you will be responsible for replacing your items.

If you take out the right insurance, however, you can be reimbursed for your losses and expenses, meaning that you won’t lose money due to an airline or hotel blunder, or a thief’s wrongdoings.

How much is your luggage worth?

How to find the best travel insurance

2nd of July, 2019

Holidays are a time for enjoyment and relaxation as we escape the monotony of our everyday lives. Unfortunately, our travel plans don’t always cooperate and unforeseen scenarios can strike at any moment during our travels. This is why more than 90% of Australians choose to take out travel insurance before taking their holidays each year. Unfortunate travel events can happen to anyone, regardless of age or level of health. Travel delays, natural disasters, lost baggage, and sudden illness can all pop up during your travels to spoil the day and hurt you financially if you’re not protected by an appropriate travel insurance policy. Most of us wouldn’t think of foregoing insurance on our beloved home or car, and financially protecting our often costly holidays should be no different. Travel can be one of the largest expenses for many households across Australia, so protecting your holidays is essential. It is important to note that without travel insurance, some cruises will not allow you to step aboard, and there are some countries may not even allow you entry without having travel insurance. While it may be apparent that obtaining travel insurance is a no brainer, finding the best travel insurance to suit your individual needs may not always be that simple. Let us explore what makes a suitable travel insurance policy and what you should look out for when choosing a travel insurance company to go with.

The importance of selecting a reputable travel insurance company 

A quality travel insurance policy is only as good as the company backing it. One of the best ways to begin your search for a reputable travel insurance company may be to ask your friends and family who have needed assistance before, so they can give you a firsthand recommendation on what the experience was like. Well-known insurance companies may cover well over a million people annually, meaning certain brands are sure to surface time and again during your conversations with others. Good travel insurance companies will not pressure you into a one-size-fits-all policy; rather they will allow you to select a policy that meets your individual needs. Stick with a company that offers a policy with exactly what you need and won’t force you to accept any extras you can live without.

Search reviews and user ratings 

It’s important to search online reviews and user ratings. A simple Google search for “travel insurance” will yield a wealth of results and information that will help guide you to make a wise decision. Don’t simply rely on the reviews supplied by a travel insurance company’s website though. Look at sources like Product Review, Google’s business star ratings, and comparison sites. If you come across a negative review, it’s important to understand why the customer gave a negative review, and decide whether that’s something that will influence your own decision making. Don’t necessarily get hung up on individual negative reviews, as most of the time it is very understandable, and that one experience might not be reflective of most customers. Look at overall ratings and recent reviews to get a clear picture of how well a company operates. You should search reviews not only for positivity when it comes to policies and their value, but also for how well a company processes claims and provides you with emergency assistance during your travels. You want to look for a travel insurance company that offers numerous points of assistance around the world, to help guide you through your travel accidents and misfortunes nearly anywhere you travel.

Look for award winning companies 

Travel insurance companies can be quite persuasive with their words and promises, but only the top providers will be able to back up their claims with notable awards. Look for awards, recommendations, and trustworthy ratings from impartial consumer advocate groups and comparison companies. For example, Canstar issues awards across various categories of travel insurance. They compare dozens of Australian travel insurers to provide you with a transparent analysis of the best travel insurance options currently available. Canstar’s five star ratings are reflective of the top 10% of travel insurance companies and products. 

Choosing the right policy for you 

No single travel insurance policy is right for all travellers; therefore, it takes a bit of research to find the one that is best suited to your needs. The first determining factor of what policy you end up purchasing depends on whether you will be travelling domestically or internationally. You then have to select whether you need a policy that just covers yourself or one that will cover you and partner or entire family. Whether you are a single student looking to backpack across Europe or are looking to book a cruise, you can be sure that there is a policy specifically designed for your holiday plans.

Where are you travelling and for how long? 

Once you decide on a policy type, you must also select one that is best suited for where you plan to travel and one that covers you for the entire duration of your trip. Once you decide on where you are travelling and book tickets, you should purchase your travel insurance as soon as possible. You will only pay for the travel dates you have selected, so purchasing early won’t cost you any more money. Purchasing as early as possible will allow you to have early protection in case things like an unknown natural disaster strikes or other covered events prevent you from taking your holiday. Make sure your policy covers all regions or countries you will be travelling to. This is equally as important if taking a cruise holiday as well. Travel insurance policies that provide coverage worldwide will generally cost more than those covering a single region such as Asia or Europe. If you only plan to visit a single country, it may not make sense to purchase a worldwide policy. Again, it is important to note that you may not be able to get coverage for certain countries, most notably those that have travel warnings. You can search Smart Traveller for the latest travel alerts and travel advice for countries all around the world. Whether it’s because of civil unrest or a looming natural disaster, you must make sure that your holiday destination will be covered under your chosen policy. While you may simply want to purchase a single trip policy if you only plan on taking one holiday in a year, it may make sense to look into an annual multi-trip policy if you travel more often. These policies can cover you for several holidays within a year and can be more cost effective than purchasing individual policies each time you travel.

Modes of transportation 

Most policies will automatically include coverage for flights, however, you may need to buy specialized insurance if you plan on taking a cruise at some point during your holiday. Even when cruising around Australia, it is important to get cruise travel insurance since you will most likely no longer have Medicare coverage once you leave port. Having cruise insurance for both domestic and international holidays will also cover you for instances of cruise delays, cabin confinement, medical evacuations by helicopter, and missed excursions due to covered circumstances.

Selecting the appropriate level of cover 

When it comes to selecting a travel insurance policy, you will generally have several different coverage levels to choose from. The most affordable policies are generally considered basic policies, while gold or top-level policies will provide you with far more comprehensive coverage. Medical expenses can prove to be one of the largest possible expenses you can be hit with while travelling overseas. More comprehensive policies will provide better coverage for things like personal liability, travel delays, lost or delayed luggage, trip interruption, legal expenses, and permanent disability that arise during your travels. 

Covering your planned travel activities 

Whether you plan on enjoying time on jet skis or flying through the air on zip-lines, you want to make sure all your planned travel activities will be covered. Not all activities may be covered under your policy, so it is up to you to either find out if you can add them for an extra charge or whether to abstain from those riskier activities. Risky activities that may not be covered under most travel insurance policies include skydiving, shark diving, and cliff diving. Should you be planning a winter getaway, you may need to add winter sports coverage onto your policy if you plan on enjoying some downhill skiing, snowmobiling, or ice skating.

Fully understand your chosen policy 

It is vital that you fully understand your travel insurance policy before your travels. Don’t be afraid to ask your insurance company any questions you may have and be sure to read your policy’s product disclosure statement for full policy details. The small percentage of claims that end up being denied are results of travellers not fully understanding the policy they purchased. It is also extremely important to be honest when purchasing a travel insurance policy and you must be sure to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions. Failure to disclose everything may result in your claim being denied. Many pre-existing medical conditions may be included on your policy already or may simply require a bit more cost to provide coverage for. Even if you’re condition is not covered, you may still be able to get coverage for other aspects of your travel and injuries or illness that come about due to causes that are unrelated to your pre-existing condition.

Most common travel insurance claims 

According to recent statistics, the top travel insurance claim by Australians most often relates to having received overseas medical treatment due to injury or illness. Medical treatment claims accounted for well over half of all travel insurance claims. The next biggest claim relates to cancelled or delayed trips. This can happen due to a death in the family or when an unforseen natural disaster strikes and stops you from being able to travel to your chosen destination. Rounding up the most common travel insurance claims include things like lost and misplaced luggage, personal liability, legal expenses, and costs for obtaining new passports or other travel documents. Regardless of what type of claim you may have, it is important to keep any official documents or receipts that can be used as evidence to support your claim. Be sure to save all documents and any correspondence you receive from airlines, hotels, police, and overseas hospitals. When a covered event does occur for which you may need to make a claim, it is important to notify your travel insurance company as soon as possible. They can help guide you through the process of submitting a claim and will discuss what evidence or documents you may need.

Say what? Travelling in places where you don’t speak the language

 

June 27, 2017

Current estimates are that there are over 6,500 different spoken languages in the world. And while English is one of the three most-spoken languages – behind Chinese and Spanish – only 27.5% of countries have English as an official language.

If you want to see some of the world’s most thrilling sites, venturing into parts of the planet where you won’t understand a word is essential. Travelling in a place where you don’t understand the language can be daunting, but there are plenty of ways to prepare to make sure that your trip runs as smoothly as possible.

Take a short language course

If you’re planning a trip to a place with a fairly common language, why not go one step deeper in your planning and learn a bit of the local language before you leave? There are plenty of ways you can do so, to suit all budgets and learning styles.

It’s always worth taking a look at local colleges and learning centres to see if they have any relevant language classes available. If you’re in a city, the range of options can be incredible. But if time or distance rules out taking a class, there are a lot of other possibilities.

One option is to find a language-learning app that offers integrated speaking, listening and reading. The industry standout is Duolingo, an app that offers courses in 23 languages. A former Apple iPhone App of the Year winner, it’s a very convenient way to fit language lessons around your life.

There are also plenty of free online courses from everyone from the BBC to major universities. The BBC’s Languages hub, while no longer updated, offers some amazing resources for learning essential phrases in 40 different languages and has beginner courses for seven of those.

Major international universities also offer free online language courses through platforms like Coursera, EdX and Futurelearn. Check out the offerings well ahead of time as they are often only offered once or twice each year.

There are some languages that are so rare and unusual that it might be difficult to find any resources, but there’s usually a major common language spoken in most areas.

Buy some Apps

There are hundreds of apps available for Apple and Android devices that are designed to help you travel in a foreign country. It’s easy to impulse-buy in the app store, but to avoid wasting money, do your research. Read customer reviews and look at star ratings, including the total number of ratings, as a single five-star rating isn’t as reliable an indicator of quality as 100 4-star ratings.

Look for apps that store the information locally rather than requiring you to access the internet every time you look up a word to reduce roaming data costs and prevent you from getting stuck when you’re out of reception range. Make sure you download all the relevant data when you have access to WIFI.

Hire a translator

Sometimes, hiring a bilingual local guide is simply the best way to go. Not only do they know the area, but they also understand the nuances of the local language and can help you get the most out of your interactions with locals.

Depending on where you are, hiring a translator can be quite expensive. Pick the right days of the trip in which you’d like to hire one: earlier the trip might give you the information and tips that will help you get the most out of the rest of the trip.

Again, this is an area where doing your research helps: even though accredited guiding companies may be more expensive to use, they are far less risky, both in terms of quality and safety.

Take a guided tour

Another option is to choose not to go it alone and rather join a tour. With a guide who is experienced in travelling in the country and has the support of a tour company, it’s a far easier way to travel. You do lose out on authentic local experiences and interaction with locals, but the gains in terms of ease and understanding can offset those. It’s definitely an option to consider.

Go for an old-fashioned phrasebook

There’s an inherent danger in relying on technology- especially technology that relies on batteries that can run out two hours into a ten-hour train ride. Have an old-fashioned phrase book- or even just some printed pages with key phrases in the local language—as an essential backup. Having key information, including your accommodation details, written in the local language can also be really helpful when you just can’t get the pronunciation right.

Please also check what is covered as a part of your travel insurance before you start your trip.

Getting away for New Year’s Eve in Australia

Celebrating New Year’s Eve is very exciting – and it’s also a great excuse for a local getaway over the holidays!

If you plan to travel over the break and celebrate New Year’s Eve in another city, town or regional location, here’s what you should know.

Accommodation options

Accommodation options in Australia range far and wide, so your choice is huge. Depending on where you want to go and what you want to see and do on NYE, you can:

• Stay in a major hotel or resort
• Choose from other options like serviced apartments, B&Bs, motels and youth hostels
• Rent a holiday home for your family or a group of friends
• Camp out in the wilderness or in a caravan park

Whatever you do make sure you book your accommodation early. Rooms often book out fast (sometimes a year in advance) and prices can also jump up significantly for NYE.

Keep in mind that many establishments will have a 2-3 minimum night stay over the holidays too.

Watching the fireworks

There are hundreds of places where you can see New Year’s Eve fireworks around Australia, whether you’re in a big city or a more rural spot.

• Major Aussie cities will usually hold key fireworks events around the harbour, water or inner city; make sure you show up early in the day if you plan to picnic and hang out until night time (in popular places, spots fill up fast, so you might not even be allowed in! In Sydney, for example, numbers can reach 1.6 million people around the harbour foreshore alone) (Source: www.sydneynewyearseve.com/fireworks/)
• If you prefer not to be in the central business district, look for fireworks displays and celebrations in other locations near beaches, lakes, rivers or parks
• Rural towns and locales will often hold their own fireworks displays and celebrations usually include things like live music and market stalls
• In Australia, some cities or towns will hold two fireworks shows on the night: One at 9.00pm (great for kids and families who don’t want to stay out late) and the official display at midnight

Eating & drinking out

Eating and drinking out is one of the best bits of New Year’s Eve celebrations.

• If you’re picnicking or camping out, plan ahead and check the regulations on alcohol and what you can/can’t bring with you (e.g. around Sydney Harbour, many firework vantage points are alcohol-free zones) (Source: www.sydneynewyearseve.com/plan-ahead/watching-the-fireworks/)
• If you prefer to have a designated seat for the whole night, you can also book a table in a café, restaurant or bar. This will usually involve paying a package cost for dinner and drinks. If you’re keen to splurge, check out establishments close to the fireworks; otherwise, bargains can often be found elsewhere
• In more remote areas, food and market stalls are common and are a great option for food and drinks on New Year’s Eve

Transport

Researching transport in your local area on New Year’s Eve is also a must. Taxis can be difficult to get and even public transport options can be packed, so plan ahead carefully.

Melbourne, for example, has major transport shut downs and road closures on New Year’s Eve. (Source: www.thatsmelbourne.com.au/nye/plan-ahead)

• What transport options are there to/from your desired spot?
• What time will public transport run to?
• Will there be shut down times after the fireworks?
• What about delays?

If you prefer to be within walking distance of your hostel or accommodation, book early to avoid missing out.

Weather

December and January can be extremely hot in Australia. Make sure you:

• Dress accordingly in light clothing
• Use sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun if you’re going to be out during the day
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day (and night) to stay hydrated
• Stick to shady areas if it is extremely hot

Travel Insurance

• Did you know that over 285,000 Australians travelled domestically in 2014? (Source: www.tra.gov.au/statistics/domestic-travel-by-australians.html)

If you are going to be travelling domestically within Australia, protecting yourself, your family and your possessions with domestic travel insurance is advisable.

Domestic travel insurance can help you cover emergencies and mishaps such as:

• Last minute emergency cancellations
• Flight and travel delays
• Lost, stolen or damaged luggage or possessions
• Lost or stolen cash
• Accommodation, meals and travel expenses cover in the event of an emergency

Remember, anything can go wrong on any type of trip, even when you travel in Australia, so ensuring you’re covered could save you hundreds.

A quick guide to NYE in the capital cities

• Sydney holds a major fireworks event in around the harbour, with much focus on the Harbour Bridge; get organised ASAP if you want to spend NYE in Sydney, as it can get packed out fast
• Melbourne’s celebrations take place around the Yarra River, with fireworks displays shooting off high rises around the city; picnicking is possible or you can secure at seat at any of the Southbank restaurants
• If you’re in Brisbane, Story Bridge is the place to be for fireworks and major celebrations; and on the Gold Coast, you can catch the fireworks display from the beach
• Canberra backpackers should head to Civic Square for two cool fireworks displays (9pm and 12am), as well as a tonne of live music and bands
• In Perth, amazing foreshore fireworks displays are accompanied by a huge street party at Northbridge; there are also a bunch of NYE music festivals you can attend
• The River Torrens is the spot to head to in Adelaide, with two fireworks displays to boot; the night is accompanied by live music, food stalls and even a beer garden
• In Darwin, celebrations often kick off earlier in the afternoon, with plenty of live entertainment, and a 9pm fireworks show for all on the Waterfront
• Hobart is ideal if you’re a foodie or just want to backpack in one of Australia’s most gorgeous wilderness spots; the Taste of Tasmania food festival and the fireworks are the two main events here

For further info on New Year’s Eve events in the major cities, visit Tourism Australia

Travelling domestically for Christmas or New Year’s? Get a fast quote below:

How to Compare Travel Insurance – Levels of Cover, Benefits & More

Comparing your travel insurance choices is often the best way to obtain the most competitive travel insurance cover for your trip. But what sorts of things should you compare and review? And how can you be sure your chosen travel insurance could mean the ultimate care-free journey?

1. Levels of Cover

When comparing travel insurance packages, it is beneficial to understand how much insurance cover you need.

• Make a list of all the areas that you want insurance for and decide how much cover you need for each (e.g. $2,000 or $10,000?). This can make it much easier to see which providers can give you the level of cover you are looking for
• Cover you might want to make a priority in your policy can include: medical, hospital, baggage, valuables, trip cancellations, emergency flights home, delays (travel or baggage), sports/activities equipment or business equipment

2. Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

• When comparing your travel insurance choices, consider the terms each provider has about pre-existing medical conditions; it could be beneficial to look for a provider who is more accepting of your condition than others
• Providers who don’t require medical certificates and documentation upfront (i.e. until you make a claim) can also make the comparing and choosing process much easier

3. Medical Cover

Medical cover is one of the most standard inclusions in all travel insurance policies. However, it is a good idea to compare the different medical entitlements and limits offered by each provider and to make sure that the medical coverage you choose will satisfy your needs.

4. Sports & Activities

If you will be engaging in high risk sports or activities during your trip, it is important to secure cover for these also.

• When comparing your travel insurance choices, consider which policy or upgrade will bring you the most beneficial cover for your intended activities
• You should also keep an eye out for various limits placed on your chosen activities, such as diving to a certain depth or white water rafting to a certain level

5. Excesses

Excesses are sums of money you will be required to pay before your travel insurance provider will begin paying your claims.

• Comparing excesses is usually quite easy and will give you an idea of which provider offers more competitive excess amounts
• You can also look out for providers that offer flexibility in the way of excess waivers (so you won’t have to pay an excess when claiming) or increased excesses (to keep your premiums down)

6. Exclusions

Exclusions will be common to most policies. You should be able to compare your travel insurance exclusions by reviewing your policy and your Product Disclosure Statement.

7. Additional Benefits

It’s often the small things that count! Additional benefits included in your travel insurance can make it all the more appealing. You might want to consider looking out for 24/7 emergency support, free cover for children, easy approval and claims processes.

The Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) can also assist in comparing which level of cover is right for you, so make sure to read this or contact our customer service agents before you buy to understand your options.

If you need help comparing your travel insurance choices or simply deciding what type of cover is right for you, InsureandGo can help. Get in touch with our friendly travel insurance team today!

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

The cost of travel insurance will vary depending on a range of factors about your trip, such as:

• What country/countries you are visiting
• The type of trip you are taking
• The length of your trip
• The activities you will be participating in while away

Other individual factors that can also impact your travel insurance costs include things like age, pre-existing medical conditions and the level of cover or limits you would like.

Options that can affect your total travel insurance costs

Depending on what levels of cover you need for your trip, optional extras can also increase your premium slightly. These options can include insurance cover for:

• Travel delays
• Trip cancellations
• Baggage delays
• Passport, documents and cash
• Extreme or dangerous sports/activities
• Excess waivers on claims
• Journey resumption after cutting your trip short or returning home
• Equipment for golfing or skiing
• Rental vehicle excess waivers
• Additional valuables like iPads, cameras, phones, jewellery
• Personal liabilities and legal expenses
• Pet care if your return trip is delayed and your pet is in boarding
• Loss of income due to injuries while travelling

How can I lower the cost of my travel insurance?

While it’s important to ensure your travel insurance can cover your trip, it is possible to lower the cost of your premiums. You can:

• Increase your excesses on claims (i.e. the amount you have to pay before the insurance company will pay you)
• Consider a multi-trip package if you travel frequently

When choosing your policy, it is essential to make sure that the limits will cover your costs should something go wrong. Remember, just because a policy is cheaper doesn’t mean it is better!

What about cover limits and levels?

Limits are the total amount that the travel insurance company will pay for any one item or area of coverage. The better the level of cover, the higher the limits will usually be. This usually means that your premiums will be slightly higher, but in return, you will be getting a more comprehensive level of cover that can save you thousands if an accident or mishap occurs.

Travel tips for a New Zealand holiday

New Zealand, or the Land of the Long White Cloud, is an amazing place to visit. With snow-peaked mountains, unforgettable coastlines, gorgeous lakes and quirky cities and towns, there’s endless travelling fun to be had here.

At InsureandGo, our priority is to make sure you travel safely on your New Zealand trip, whether you’re enjoying a coffee in Auckland, kayaking in Fiordland or exploring the Bay of Islands. We encourage you to take out travel insurance New Zealand holidaymakers buy to get peace of mind for their travels.

Pre-existing conditions

No matter what your pre-existing condition is, we’ll consider it at InsureandGo.

When you take out travel insurance, with us you must declare all pre-existing medical conditions. We consider pre-existing conditions to be any illness or condition that you have been diagnosed with or treated for in the past five years.

If you’re unsure whether your condition is coverable, all you need to do is ask us. You won’t need to provide any medical documentation or undergo any physical assessments unless you make a claim.

Read more about getting travel insurance for pre-existing conditions or call 1300 401 177 and we can answer any question you may have.

Adventure sports & accidents

New Zealand is an adventure sports playground and many travellers head here to get their adrenalin pumping. Whether you choose to ski, hike, bungee jump or kayak, it’s important to remember that accidents can always happen.

• Make sure your travel insurance policy with InsureandGo covers ALL the sports and activities you plan to undertake in New Zealand; make yourself aware of what situations/circumstances are covered and what might exclude you from cover
• If you injure yourself while in New Zealand, seek medical help immediately
• If your accident is not an emergency, you (or someone you’re with) should contact InsureandGo as soon as possible – we can help you find your nearest medical facility and arrange transport for you if necessary
• If you contact InsureandGo before your treatment, we will also be able to send a ‘guarantee of payment’, if necessary, to the medical facility to cover your treatment costs (assuming you are covered)

Car rentals

If you plan to hire a car while in New Zealand, you should make sure you’re insured. Most InsureandGo policies will cover you for car rentals while in New Zealand, however, your specific policy will explain exactly what driving circumstances you are/aren’t covered for (so read this carefully). Remember:

• You must hold a valid Australian driver’s licence and comply with all rules/regulations while driving your vehicle to be eligible for insurance claims
• If you have selected an InsureandGo Gold International policy, you will be covered for up to $8,000 in rental car excesses (compare travel insurance levels of cover here)
• You need to obey all terms and conditions set out in your contract with the vehicle rental company; failure to do so will mean your travel insurance cover won’t be valid
• You won’t be covered if you drive your vehicle off road, if it has more than nine seats or if you hire it for more than 15 days

Skiing and snow sports

New Zealand is one of the best and most beautiful places to indulge in a range of snow sports. If you plan to hit the snow, you’ll need to purchase InsureandGo’s Winter Sports upgrade.

• Our Winter Sports package covers you for 14 different activities, including skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, ice skating, cross-country skiing and more (all sports must be undertaken at a commercial resort)
• Your own skiing equipment and your lift pass will also be covered in case of loss, damage or theft
• You’re also covered for additional travel expenses that you need to pay if an avalanche delays your arrival and/or departure
• Keep in mind that if you only purchase InsureandGo Bare Essentials, you will not be covered under the personal accident section of your policy for any winter (or other) sports

Snorkelling & scuba diving

There are many wonderful places to snorkel and dive when in New Zealand. You should check that snorkelling and/or scuba diving is covered by your InsureandGo travel insurance policy. If you choose to dive, you’ll need to ensure that:

• You are a qualified diver or that you only dive with a qualified instructor
• You only dive up to depths of 30 metres (you won’t be covered if you dive deeper than this)
• You never dive by yourself

Theft & belongings

New Zealand is generally a very safe place, but that doesn’t mean that thefts won’t still occur. To keep your belongings safe, make sure they are under your watch at all times and never leave them unattended or with a stranger.

If you do experience any incidents of theft while in New Zealand, report it to police immediately and obtain a copy of the official report for your travel insurance claim.

Is New Zealand next on your travel agenda? Start your quick InsureandGo quote here or call our friendly team on 1300 401 177 to apply.

How to keep your passport safe abroad

11th of December, 2019

The latest figures show that nearly 15 million Aussies have a passport, though while we like to pride ourselves on being seasoned travellers, we continuously rank at the top of the list for countries that have the highest prevalence of having them lost and stolen. 

Last financial year alone, roughly 40,000 passports were reported lost or stolen, and over 8,000 emergency travel documents had to be issued to help get Australians abroad back home. Keeping your passport safe is vital to making sure you’ll be allowed to enter foreign countries and return home to Australia. 

Losing your passport will risk spoiling your holiday plans, and you will most likely need to pay a visit to the nearest Australian embassy or consulate. So, today, we’ve put together some helpful tips for keeping your passport safe abroad. 

Read on for information about the dangers your passport may face while travelling abroad and what to do if your passport is lost or stolen.

Protecting your passport before your trip

To be able to protect your passport, you first have to receive it from the government. 

Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months from the moment you arrive in the country. If you notice your passport will soon expire, or if you have never had a passport, it is important not to wait until the last minute to apply for one. 

It can take up to three weeks to receive a new passport, although you may be able to obtain it in a matter of days if you lodge your application at a selected Australia Post location and choose the Passport RAPID Service option. 

Note that this priority processing comes at a much higher fee. Some countries may require you to get a visa in your passport before you arrive. If you are required to submit your passport to an embassy or consulate to get a visa placed in your passport, be sure to use registered post to mail your passport for your visa application. 

This will allow you to track where your passport is, and submitting a prepaid self-addressed envelope will help make sure your passport gets to you. Once you have your passport, storing it in a safe will provide protection when not in use. 

Make sure to keep track of how many blank pages you have left for new passport stamps, and always make sure you book travel tickets using the exact name that is displayed on your passport, something that can be an issue if recently married and taking a new last name. 

Before heading off on your holiday, your first step should be purchasing travel insurance. The right policy can help you recover the costs of replacing your passport while overseas if it’s lost, stolen or damaged during your trip so that you may continue with your travels and return to Australia.

Place emergency contact information inside your passport

Your passport has a page dedicated to placing your address and emergency contact information. 

Anyone who finds a lost passport is encouraged to submit it to the nearest Australian passport office, consulate, or local police station. 

Filling out the requested personal details and emergency contact information in your passport will make it easier for authorities to get your passport back to you quickly or to notify family members if something happens to you during your travels and you are unable to contact them yourself.

Make copies of all your passport information 

Before you depart for your holiday, be sure to make copies of your passport. 

While the personal details page is the most important page to copy, it is also a good idea to copy pages with passport stamps and visas. 

Keep a physical copy of your passport in a separate location from your real passport throughout your travels, and keep a digital copy in Dropbox or email it to yourself so that you may easily access it worldwide should you lose both your original passport and physical copy. 

Having copies of your passport details will speed up the process of getting a replacement passport should yours be lost or stolen while travelling.

Don’t keep all passports in one place when travelling as a family

Having one member of a family hold onto all passports opens up the possibility for them all to be lost if they are targeted by theft or to be lost due to carelessness. 

While you may have to keep track of passports belonging to small children, it is generally advised that all adults and older children in a travelling party hold onto their passports. 

If you are a couple travelling with multiple small children, divide the passports between the two of you to minimise the risk of losing them all.

Avoid putting your passport in your luggage 

Whether you’re travelling with checked luggage or simply carry-on luggage, a suitcase is no place for your passport. 

You cannot get through immigration without your passport. Don’t assume that a passport in your carry-on is safe either, as someone can quite easily grab your bag when exiting the plane or when using an airport shuttle bus, whether they do so by accident or purposely. 

Stick to carrying your passport on your body, using your front pocket, a secure undershirt wallet, or some other secure carrying method.

Keeping your passport secure while carrying it 

There are many instances while travelling where you will need to have your passport on you, such as at airports, renting an international vehicle, or checking into a hotel. 

Additionally, a number of countries require you to always carry a valid form of ID that may be requested by police at any time. You may even be required to show your passport when using domestic trains and flights in certain countries. 

While it may not be fashionable for everyone these days to wear a bumbag, there are other ways to safely secure your passport while it’s in your possession. They make theft-resistant backpacks and discreet under-clothing money belts, many of which are equipped with RFID Blocking. 

All new Australian passports are ePassports that are equipped with microchips utilising Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. This helps speed up the transmission of passport data, but also may make them a target for hackers looking to steal your important personal details from your passport or credit cards. RFID-blocking purses and backpacks will help avoid this situation. 

Always pay attention to your surroundings when pulling out your passport, choosing only private or secure places to do so. This will help deter thieves who may be after your passport and will also help prevent giving away your nationality, which could be important in instances of terrorist attacks where specific nationalities are targeted. 

Never keep your passport in the same spot as other targeted items, such as your mobile phone or money, and always choose a hard-to-reach zippered pocket that is closest to your body when storing your passport in a backpack.

Lock up your passport when not in use

There are, of course, many times when it won’t be wise to carry your passport while travelling. 

Whether you’re planning to do some surfing or snorkelling at the beach or want to enjoy some zip lining through the rainforest treetops, there are many activities where having your passport on you will increase the chances of it being lost, stolen, or damaged. 

If available, utilise your hotel safe to lock up your passport and other valuables. If your room doesn’t have a safe, you can ask the hotel or hostel reception to store your passport in their main safe. Only do this when staying at reputable accommodation brands.

Never surrender your passport to a vendor 

While you may be asked by hotels and tour operators to show your passport, very rarely should anyone ever need to hold onto your passport. 

Encourage any hotel or tour operator who wishes to hold onto your passport to accept a copy of your passport instead. 

This is why it is a good idea to carry several physical copies of your passport, although most establishments should be able to make a copy of your passport themselves. 

Be very wary of any company that insists you surrender your passport, as it may be part of some scam.

Avoid passport scams 

It is important to be aware of potential scams that may result in your passport being stolen. 

While rare, there are cases of passport thieves disguising themselves as police officers. While you may be able to recognise what Australian police officers look like and their protocols, this can be difficult while abroad. 

If a police officer asks you to surrender your passport, ask to see some ID or insist that you be brought to the local police station for further explanation on why you need to hand over your passport. 

Other thieves may not be targeting your passport per se, but may simply be after your backpack or other personal belongings. 

Always keep tabs on your personal belongings while travelling, and don’t fall victim to distraction techniques used by thieves that are designed to make you lose concentration. Be wary of any stranger who eagerly and relentlessly wants to offer unsolicited assistance or advice, as they may be attempting to steal from you.

Protect your passport from being damaged 

While passports are stolen abroad, it’s more likely that you will be the one to put your passport at risk. 

A badly damaged passport can be just as bad as a lost or stolen passport, and our carelessness can lead to our passport being deemed invalid due to its being damaged. 

Weather can wreak havoc on your passport, with rain and excessive humidity the main culprits capable of damaging your passport. Excessive heat can also damage your ePassport’s microchip, as can excessively bending your passport. 

Nearly everything on your passport needs to be clear and legible, with no signs of tampering or alteration. Countries are becoming stricter about enforcing the need for a clean and crisp passport – your passport may be deemed invalid if pages are torn, stained, or removed. 

There have been recent instances of Australian travellers visiting places like Bali who have been denied entry because of badly damaged passports. Invest in a sturdy passport holder that will shield it from the elements and any abuse you may throw at it. 

There are many holders that are waterproof, and some sport a durable hard case.

What to do if you lose your passport 

Despite all your careful planning and precautions, there may be a time when you do lose your passport abroad. 

If your passport is lost or stolen while travelling, report it to the local police and the Australian government as soon as possible. Australian embassies and consulates are the point of contact for Australian passport services. 

Contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra at +61 2 6261 3305 if your passport is lost, stolen, damaged, faulty, or expired. Another helpful number is the Australian Passport Information Service (APIS), which can be reached at 131 232. 

Remember to get a copy of the police report after reporting a lost or stolen passport to the local police and immediately contact your travel insurer, who may be able to cover the replacement costs of your passport should you have the appropriate level of cover. 

If you happen to find your passport after reporting it lost or stolen to the Australian government, you can no longer use that passport as the government cancels it immediately to prevent criminals from misusing it. 

Frequently losing your passport may force the Australian government to place shorter validity periods on your future passports. It is always a good idea to carry extra passport photos with you while travelling in case you need them to get a replacement passport. 

In some cases, a temporary emergency passport may be issued, which will have a very short validity period, fewer pages, and no chip like the standard ePassport.

Steps to Buying the Best Travel Insurance for Your Holiday

When shopping around for a great travel insurance policy, it is vital that you choose a provider who is able to offer you full coverage for your holiday. This means taking into account the various risks and factors associated with your trip and deciding how much cover you need for each one. These questions have been designed to help make selecting a travel insurance policy easier and straightforward:

Where am I going?

Your destination(s) will be influential in determining your level of cover. Ensure that the policy you choose is able to cover you for all of the countries you are visiting, including any stopover destinations. You should also check Smartraveller regularly and for any disruptions or warnings about the areas you’ll be travelling to. Insurance providers will not cover your losses if you travel against advice issued by the Australian government.

How long am I going for?

It’s important to find a travel insurance policy that covers you for the duration of your holiday. If you are planning on taking several trips throughout the year, a multi-trip policy may be more beneficial. If you will be travelling for a long period of time (e.g. 1 year), you may want to consider a policy that includes ‘trip resumption’, in case you have to return home to deal with an emergency.

Do I have any pre-existing medical conditions?

Pre-existing medical conditions can influence your travel insurance policy and claims. If you have had any medical problems, try researching a provider who is more flexible about what conditions they will cover, rather than a provider who automatically excludes various illnesses or who charges excessive amounts to cover these illnesses.

How much baggage do I have? What about valuables?

Your baggage and valuables (including your passport) will be of utmost importance, so you’ll need to calculate how much all of your items are worth to determine how much baggage and valuables cover you need. Valuables such as laptops, tablets, cameras and mobile phones may be excluded from some lower-level policies, so make sure your chosen policy includes the items you will be taking. When it comes to items like sports equipment, you will usually be able to upgrade your policy to cover these specific possessions.

What will I be doing on my holiday?

High-risk activities, like skiing, bungee jumping or motorcycling, often mean you need a higher level of insurance cover. If you do plan to engage in certain sports and activities, you’ll need to make sure you have the right level of medical cover in your policy, particularly if there’s a possibility you may injure yourself and/or need medical treatment while on holiday.

What about cover for my kids?

Many people assume that travel insurance for the whole family can be costly, but protecting your children is just as critical as protecting yourself! The best way to save money in this instance is to look for a policy that covers your children for free and gives them protection under the same conditions as your own policy.

What if I get into an emergency while travelling?

Emergencies can be very stressful, and if you need to make a claim, you will want a provider who offers 24/7 phone support and an easy claims process while you’re away. Make sure you investigate this early on when choosing your policy, as it can save you lots of hassle in the long run.

Other things to consider:

• Trip cancellations: If you have to cancel your trip unexpectedly, some policies can offer you reimbursement for some or all of your losses
• Excess: Almost all policies will have an excess, so note these costs before you buy
• Claims: Make sure you understand how the claims process works. Most companies will require you to submit any claims within a certain timeframe once your trip is over or your policy has ended, and you’ll usually need to present documentation, such as receipts, police reports or medical certificates.
• Exclusions: Ensure you are aware of all exclusions in your travel insurance policy relating to areas such as medical, health conditions, cancellations, baggage, valuables and activities etc; all exclusions will be listed in your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and it is extremely important that you read this document carefully before purchasing.

To make sure you have chosen the right policy for your trip, make sure to read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) or contact our customer service agents before you buy to understand your options.

Beautiful beach camping destinations in Australia for the summer

January 31, 2017

These beach camping destinations around Australia are gorgeous, and they’re some of my favourites. Here’s where to go to sleep (and wake up!) this summer by the sea:

Whitehaven Beach, Queensland

You’ll find a gorgeous array of beach camping sites in the Whitsundays, but one of the standouts is Whitehaven. Pristine white sands and glistening blue waters await, with the campsite and toilets nestled in the bush just metres back from the beach. It’s only small (with seven sites), so book early to grab a spot.

Marion Bay, South Australia

On the very tip of the Yorke Peninsula you’ll find the Innes National Park and magnificent Marion Bay. The caravan park here is perfect for camping, caravanning and even cabin-staying.

Most sites are powered and facilities include toilets, hot showers, kitchen/BBQs, a children’s playground, washing machines and a kiosk. Out the front you’ll also find the beach – which is ideal for both swimming and fishing.

Rottnest Island, Western Australia

One of the most beautiful destinations in WA, Rottnest Island’s campground, is just a short walk from the infamous Basin swimming spot. There are 43 sand-covered sites that are powered, as well as kitchen, BBQ and toilet facilities. You can even get your luggage delivered to the campsite straight from the ferry!

Sites can be booked up to 18 months in advance and a maximum of six people are allowed on each site.

Cave Beach, New South Wales

When it comes to the Booderee National Park on breathtaking Jervis Bay most people will tell you to head to Cave Beach. This is an idyllic camping spot but bear in mind it’s only suitable for campers that pack light (you have to carry your equipment in, about 300m) and only small tents are allowed.

Facilities are good with toilets, cold-water showers, BBQs and running tap water.

Apollo Bay, Victoria

No trip to Victoria is complete without a journey along the Great Ocean Road. And there’s no better place to stop for camping than at Apollo Bay overlooking the beach and the Twelve Apostles.

The Big4 Pisces Park offers a range of cabins and campsites, not to mention a pool, a games room and a kids’ playground. There’s also excellent access to waterfalls and rainforest treks, as well as the centre of town.

Fortescue Bay, Tasmania

Yes, you can find exquisite white-sand beaches in Tassie! The beach at Fortescue Bay is one of them and it’s only a 1.5 hour drive from Hobart. There are two great campgrounds here; Banksia is perfect for tent camping, while Mill Creek is where you want to be if you have a caravan.

There are toilets, BBQs, fireplaces and even a basic shop on site, and bookings are needed to secure a spot. You’ll find yourself in the Tasman National Park, so there’s no shortage of things to do! Key sights include the Tasman Arch, Waterfall Bay and Remarkable Cave.

Remember that protecting your trip with travel insurance is essential, even when travelling within Australia. Check out InsureandGo’s Domestic Travel Insurance.