If you’re planning the trip of a lifetime, the last thing
you want to think about is what could happen if you got injured or sick while
overseas. But travel insurance is not just an optional extra. To put it
bluntly, if you can’t afford a travel insurance policy then you probably can’t
afford to travel.
Why do I need travel
insurance? What’s covered?
In a foreign
country, chances are your Australian health insurance will not cover you at
all. That’s where travel insurance comes in. It provides protection for you and
your family in case you get sick or suffer an injury. It can cover medical and
hospital expenses, emergency evacuation, dental bills and a long list of other
costs which can quickly add up to the tens of thousands.
But travel
insurance may also provide cover in case of other unfortunate events. If you
have to cancel a flight in an emergency, you could be covered. It can also
cover your expenses in the event that your train is delayed due to severe
weather. If your luggage is lost or stolen, or you are mugged, you could recoup
some or all of your losses.
Other
benefits :
Many insurers offer benefits such as free telephone
assistance worldwide, available 24/7 in case an emergency arises or you just
need some help in a sticky situation. Whether it’s rebooking a flight you
missed, helping you locate the nearest pharmacy or providing assistance in
replacing a lost passport, many insurers will be only too happy to help.
Statistically speaking, while travelling, the chances of
accident, theft or other unfortunate events are increased. The Department of
Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) dealt with 1,215 deaths and 1,330
hospitalisations of Australians overseas in 2013-14.
Even if you take all the recommended precautions, wearing a
money belt, dressing conservatively and staying alert, disasters can and often
do still happen to ordinary people while they travel.
For peace of mind for you and your family, be sure you have
an adequate travel insurance policy before you leave home.
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