Things to Remember for Senior Citizens while Travelling Abroad

Health and Medical Considerations

Before you travel, visit your doctor for a check-up and discuss your travel plans, especially if you have health issues. Make sure you have enough of your prescribed medicines and carry a copy of your prescriptions. Don't forget to get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.   

Travel Documentation and Insurance

Keep all your travel documents, like your passport, visa, and travel insurance, in a safe place. It’s a good idea to have copies of these documents too. Get a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other issues.

Keeping Your Passport Safe

Your passport is super important when travelling. Keep it in a safe place, like a money belt or a secure bag, and don't leave it unattended.  

Carrying Your Medicines with Prescriptions

Bring enough medicine for your entire trip and keep it in your carry-on bag. Also, carry your prescriptions to show at airports or if you need to see a doctor abroad.  

Planning Your Trip Around the Weather

Check the weather of your destination before you plan your trip. This will help you pack the right clothes and be prepared for any weather conditions.

Mobility and Accessibility

Choose hotels, tours, and transportation that are senior-friendly. Make sure they have things like elevators, ramps, and ground-floor rooms if needed. If you use mobility aids, like a wheelchair, make sure they are easy to transport.

Safety and Security

Stay safe by checking travel advisories for your destination. Avoid risky areas and keep your belongings secure. Share your travel plans with a family member or friend.

Comfort and Convenience

Pack comfortable clothes and items like neck pillows for long journeys. Choose hotels that have amenities you need, and inform them about any special dietary needs.

Senior citizens traveling abroad should get comprehensive travel insurance, keep important documents safe, and plan trips around weather conditions. They should also carry necessary medications with prescriptions and stay informed about safety and security at their destination.

When should I purchase my travel insurance policy?

Over the past 10 years, it has been shown that more and more Australians are travelling abroad. Over 9 million Australians travelled out of Australia in the year ending December 2016, a huge boost from 2006, when just 4.9 million Australians left the country. (Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics )

But one of the key questions many Australian travellers want to know is – WHEN should I purchase my travel insurance?

Is there any ideal time to purchase travel insurance?

The best time to purchase your travel insurance is as soon as you have booked or finalised your holiday.

You should make sure that your insurance covers you for:

• The destination/s you will be visiting
• Your general level of risk depending on what you will be doing on your trip
• Luggage and baggage items
• Any additional valuables you decide to bring
• Your planned activities and sports while away
• Your specific needs, such as age or pre-existing medical conditions

What if I don’t yet know what I’ll be taking? Or what activities I’ll be doing?

That’s okay. If you’ve yet to figure out some parts of your trip, you can still book your travel insurance based on an estimate of what cover you feel you will need.

Why should you book travel insurance sooner rather than later?

Booking your travel insurance as soon as possible means you can benefit from cancellation cover, which is considered one of the most basic elements of any travel insurance package. (Source: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/insurance/)

• Cancellation cover allows you to claim back your prepaid costs if you need to cancel your trip prior to departing the country
• In most cases, you can claim lost funds related to cancelled, non-refundable flights, accommodation, tours, activities, travel agency fees and other related travel bookings

Under what circumstances can you claim on cancellation cover?

If you need to cancel your trip prior to leaving Australia, you can usually make a claim for your expenses if your cancellation is due to:

• Your Injury, illness or death
• The death, injury or illness of a companion you are travelling with
• The death, injury or illness of a relative back home
• A substantial disaster at home (e.g. flood, fire, burglary) with in 48hr before the date you planned to leave
• Being quarantined
• Becoming pregnant or delivering a baby and being unable to travel due to complications
• Being a member of the armed forces and being unable to travel due to being posted in Australia or another destination overseas unexpectedly
• A redundancy in your job where you had no prior knowledge of the redundancy
• Your obligation to appear in court as a witness
• Cancellation of an educational course that you were planning to attend (and where you had no control over the cancellation) if the sole purpose of trip is attend that course.

In most cases, you will need to supply documentation (like a medical certificate or police report) to show that you were not able to travel and had to cancel your trip.

Can you organise insurance after deciding to cancel your trip?

No. This is not allowed and will essentially mean you are not eligible for travel insurance or cancellation cover.

What could happen if you leave travel insurance until the last minute?

If you put off organising your travel insurance until later (e.g. a week or a day before you travel) and then discover you need to cancel your trip, you won’t be able to take advantage of the cancellation cover – and you’ll lose any non-refundable fares or costs that you have already paid.

Example:

Jane booked herself on a holiday to China, but decided to leave her travel insurance arrangements until a few days before she left. However, Jane’s mother suddenly became very ill and she ended up cancelling the trip.

The airlines and hotels had a non-refundable booking policy and would not refund Jane any of the money she’d already paid.

Since she did not have travel insurance, she wasn’t able to make a cancellation claim, either. Jane found herself without a holiday and out of pocket for $6,200.

If Jane had organised her travel insurance early on, she could have made a claim for the funds she lost and then used the money to re-book her trip later on.

Don’t leave your travel insurance until the last minute!

Organise your travel insurance now and start a quote with InsureandGo 

What’s Covered in Motorcycle and Scooter Travel Insurance Policies

When planning an overseas adventure on a motorcycle or scooter, it's crucial to secure travel insurance that covers the unique risks associated with riding. Motorcycle and scooter travel insurance typically provides comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, personal liability, loss or theft of luggage and personal belongings, rental vehicle excesses, and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. This coverage ensures you are protected financially in case of accidents, emergencies, or unforeseen events during your travels.

Why You Need Motorcycle and Scooter Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for motorcycle and scooter riders because it offers peace of mind and financial protection. Riding in a foreign country involves unique risks such as unfamiliar traffic laws, road conditions, and potential accidents. Having the right insurance policy ensures that you receive necessary medical treatment without worrying about costs, and it covers trip cancellations, personal liability, and the loss of belongings. Whether you're exploring Southeast Asia, Europe, Australia, or South America, motorcycle and scooter travel insurance provides the security you need to enjoy your adventure fully.

Eligibility Requirements and Licensing

When obtaining motorcycle and scooter travel insurance, it's important to meet certain eligibility requirements. Most insurance policies require you to have a valid motorcycle license recognized in the country you are visiting. Additionally, you must adhere to local traffic laws and regulations. Some policies may have age restrictions, and coverage may vary based on the type of motorcycle or scooter you plan to ride. Always review the policy's terms and conditions to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and understand the coverage details.

Countries Where You May Need This Coverage

• Southeast Asia (e.g., Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia - Bali): Popular for motorcycle and scooter travel, Southeast Asian countries have different road conditions and traffic laws that can increase the risk of accidents. Having comprehensive travel insurance is vital.

• Europe (e.g., Italy, France, Spain): Countries with scenic routes and long-distance motorcycle tours. Medical costs in Europe can be high, making travel insurance essential.

• Australia and New Zealand: Ideal for adventure riders, these countries offer vast landscapes and remote areas where emergency medical evacuation might be necessary.

• South America (e.g., Argentina, Brazil, Chile): With diverse terrains and challenging roads, South America is a popular destination for motorcycle enthusiasts. Travel insurance ensures you are protected in case of an accident.

Motorcycle and scooter travel insurance is essential for ensuring financial protection and peace of mind while exploring foreign destinations. It covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, personal liability, and more. Always refer to the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for full details on coverage and exclusions.

Your Guide to Finding Budget-Friendly Travel Insurance Quotes

Planning a trip can be exciting, but it also comes with its share of expenses. One way to protect your investment and travel with peace of mind is by obtaining a budget-friendly travel insurance plan. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of finding affordable travel insurance quotes and ensuring you get the best coverage for your needs

1. Understand Your Travel Needs

Before you start comparing insurance quotes, it's essential to understand your specific travel needs. Consider factors such as:

• Travelling overseas or domestically

• Duration of the trip

• Activities planned (e.g., adventure sports, hiking)

• Pre-existing medical conditions

• Number of travelers (solo, couple, family, or frequent travellers)

Knowing your needs will help you focus on policies that automatically cover the necessary aspects of your trip.

2. Research Different Insurance Providers

Not all travel insurance providers offer the same level of coverage. Research various insurance companies to identify reputable providers with positive customer reviews and reliable services. Look for providers that specialize in travel insurance cover and have a track record of handling claims efficiently.

3. Use Comparison Tools

Leverage online comparison tools to get multiple insurance quotes quickly. These tools allow you to compare different policies side by side, making it easier to identify the best options. Enter your travel details, and the tool will generate quotes from various providers, saving you time and effort.

4. Review Coverage Details

When comparing travel insurance quotes, don't just focus on the price. Examine the coverage details to ensure the policy meets your needs. Key coverage areas to consider include:

• Medical expenses and emergency evacuation

• Trip cancellation and interruption

• Lost or delayed luggage and personal effects

• Personal liability

• Coverage for adventure activities

• 24/7 emergency assistance

Make sure the policy covers all the essential aspects of your trip.

5. Check Exclusions and Limitations

Every travel insurance plan has limits and exclusions. Carefully review the policy documents to understand what is not covered. Common exclusions may include pre-existing medical conditions, high-risk activities, and certain destinations. Being aware of these exclusions will help you avoid unpleasant surprises when making a claim.

6. Look for Additional Benefits

Some travel insurance cover offers additional benefits that can enhance your coverage. These may include coverage for rental vehicle excesses, travel delay compensation, and coverage for loss of personal items like passports and travel documents. Assess the added benefits to determine if they justify a slightly higher additional premium.

7. Read the Fine Print

Always read the fine print of the travel insurance plan. Pay attention to the terms and conditions, limits and exclusions, claim procedures, and any specific requirements. Understanding the policy thoroughly ensures you know exactly what you're getting and how to make a claim if needed.

8. Consider the Cost

While it's important to find comprehensive coverage, it's equally crucial to stay within your budget. Compare the premiums of different policies and balance the cost with the level of coverage provided. Remember that the cheapest policy may not always offer the best protection, so weigh the benefits against the price.

9. Check for Discounts

Some insurance providers offer discounts for certain travelers, such as students, seniors, or frequent travellers. Inquire about any available discounts to lower your premium without compromising on coverage.

Key Documents to Review

When selecting a travel insurance policy, be sure to review the product disclosure statement (PDS) and the target market determination (TMD). These documents provide full details about the coverage, exclusions, and claims process. Understanding these documents will help you make an informed decision.

Conclusion

Finding budget-friendly travel insurance quotes is a crucial step in securing the best coverage for your trip. By understanding your travel needs, researching providers, using comparison tools, and carefully reviewing coverage details, you can find a policy that offers both comprehensive protection and value for money. With the right travel insurance cover in place, you can embark on your adventure with confidence and peace of mind.