Insure&Go warns Aussies of costly travel insurance mistakes as international travel surges

Travel insurance form put on a wood table. Many agent sells airplane tickets or travel packages allow consumers to purchase travel insurance also known as travelers insurance as an added service.
Edited by Travel Weekly


As international travel roars back to pre-pandemic levels, with Australians taking an average of 1.45 overseas flights per person in the 2024 financial year, travel insurance provider Insure&Go is cautioning travellers about common mistakes that could lead to big expenses.

The surge in travel has seen a 32m per cent rise in international trips compared to the previous year, driven by increased discretionary spending and a 31.7 per cent year-on-year growth in passenger movements.

Despite the enthusiasm, Insure&Go says too many Australians are overlooking crucial details when it comes to travel insurance, putting both their trips and their wallets at risk. David Mayo, spokesperson for Insure&Go, highlights six frequent travel insurance errors that could leave travellers vulnerable.

Buying insurance after departure

One of the most costly mistakes is purchasing travel insurance after your trip has already started. Many travellers are unaware that buying insurance after boarding the plane could invalidate their coverage. Mayo advises booking insurance early, as it provides benefits like cancellation coverage from the moment it’s purchased.

Not declaring pre-existing conditions

Failing to disclose pre-existing health conditions, like a history of cancer or heart disease, can result in rejected claims if an issue arises. Each insurance policy has different waiting periods and exclusions for pre-existing conditions, so being upfront about your health is essential to avoid costly surprises.

Assuming coverage for every activity

Planning adventurous activities like skiing, scuba diving, or riding motorcycles? Think again. These activities are often not covered under standard travel insurance policies. Insure&Go recommends checking the fine print and adding coverage for these high-risk activities to ensure full protection.

Overlooking alcohol consumption clauses

If alcohol is involved in an accident or injury, some insurance providers could void your claim. “This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of travel insurance,” Mayo says. Understanding the implications of drinking while abroad is key to avoiding costly mishaps.

Ignoring trip duration limits

Travel insurance coverage can vary depending on the length of your stay. Mayo advises checking the policy carefully to ensure your travel dates align with the coverage period, as overstaying your coverage could leave you unprotected.

Ignoring government travel warnings

Heading to a country with a “Do Not Travel” advisory from SmartTraveller.gov.au? Your insurance could be rendered invalid. Keeping up with government travel warnings ensures both your safety and the validity of your policy.

“With Australians becoming increasingly budget-conscious, it’s more important than ever to avoid these common travel insurance mistakes,” Mayo says. “Understanding how to stay covered can make the difference between an enjoyable trip and facing unexpected costs.”

As international travel booms once more, Insure&Go’s advice could save Aussies from hefty post-holiday bills and allow for more carefree adventures.

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