New research has found that more than half of Australians are unaware that some activities are not covered by their travel insurance policy.
The findings from Comparetravelinsurance.com.au revealed that many Aussies are unaware that snow sports and certain adventure experiences often require additional cover. Scuba diving and high-altitude hiking may also need an add-on.
Natalie Smith, Comparetravelinsurance.com.au spokesperson, said travellers most often discovered the limits of their cover after something had gone wrong.
“Many travellers assume their travel insurance policy automatically covers every activity on their itinerary, but activities such as cruising, skiing and adventure sports often require an add-on. Cruise cover, in particular, is often overlooked, meaning travellers who don’t purchase the appropriate cover could face significant costs if they experience a medical emergency at sea,” Ms Smith said.
The costs can be staggering. Shipboard medical clinics charge private rates far higher than most passengers expect and a medical evacuation by helicopter or port diversion can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Snow sports claims are similarly expensive, often involving mountain rescues, overseas hospitalisation and complex repatriation.
A broken leg can result in tens of thousands of dollars in costs once hospitalisation, medication and getting someone home safely are factored in.
E-bikes are an emerging grey area, with some insurers treating them the same as traditional bicycles while others require a specific adventure pack before coverage applies.
The same variation applies to motorcycle and scooter hire, scuba diving beyond certain depths and a range of other common holiday activities.
“Failing to add the right cover can leave travellers facing significant out-of-pocket expenses at the worst possible time.
“Having the appropriate level of cover before you travel can make all the difference if something goes wrong.”
Practical checklist
Before purchasing travel insurance, travellers should confirm:
- Whether they’ll require additional cruise or snow sports cover
- Whether any planned adventure activities are included
- Whether e-bikes, scooters or diving require additional cover
- Any exclusions or restrictions that apply
- Excesses and benefit limits
