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Travelling during retirement is a well-earned reward. Whether exploring new destinations or revisiting favourite spots, it’s important for seniors to plan thoroughly - especially when protecting against unforeseen events.
Getting the right travel insurance for your needs is a critical task, so we have some tips from Canstar Award-winner, Insure&Go Australia who provide cover for thousands of senior Australian travellers annually.
Why is Travel Insurance important when travelling as a Senior
As travel experiences change with age, so do potential challenges. Age can bring certain health concerns that may require special attention while travelling. For instance, seniors with pre-existing medical conditions may need to consider the possibility of requiring medical assistance while travelling overseas. They also need to account for potential trip disruptions in case a medical issue arises. This is where travel insurance becomes essential, offering added peace of mind by covering unexpected situations that could otherwise disrupt a well-deserved holiday.
Insure&Go, for example, consider all pre-existing medical conditions for possible cover and offer 24/7 emergency assistance. They offer cover for up to 100 years of age, with their Cruise and Bare Essential policies covering up to 79 years of age.
Expenses related to medical emergencies
The costs associated with medical emergencies can vary significantly depending on the country, and in some cases, they can be extraordinarily high. Healthcare expenses overseas, particularly in countries like the United States, can quickly add up and leave travellers facing steep bills for even minor treatments. Even with Australia’s reciprocal health agreements, prescription medication is often not covered. Without the protection of travel insurance, these unexpected costs could turn a simple medical issue into a major financial burden. Travel insurance can provide cover for these expenses, offering added peace of mind and protecting Seniors from the potentially overwhelming costs of medical care overseas.
Insure&Go’s policies provide cover for unlimited medical expenses overseas subject to any applicable exclusions and conditions and can offer assistance with hospitalisation, emergency evacuations and repatriation after considering your circumstances.
Destinations, Passports and Visas
When planning a multi-destination trip or cruise, make sure your travel insurance covers every country on your itinerary, including stopovers. Be aware that some countries may be excluded from coverage, and protection for stopovers can vary between providers. It's important to review your policy details to ensure you're fully covered for all locations you plan to visit.
Before travelling, it is also essential to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date, as many countries require this for entry. Additionally, verify whether a visa is needed for any of the destinations on your itinerary, as not having the correct documentation could result in being denied entry. Failing to meet these requirements could lead to trip cancellations or delays. While travel insurance may cover some unexpected disruptions, it often won’t apply if you're turned away due to passport or visa issues. To avoid complications, make sure your passport and visas are in order well before departure.
Coverage for Trip Cancellations and Changes
Unforeseen events, such as illness or emergencies, can disrupt travel plans. Without the right travel insurance, cancelling a trip at the last minute could lead to significant financial losses, including non-refundable deposits, accommodation, and flight costs. Travel insurance can often cover some of these costs in accordance with the coverage of the policy when it becomes essential to cancel or change your travel plans. Make sure to carefully review your policy for events that may not be covered.
Baggage Protection and Valuables Coverage
Baggage protection is especially important for seniors, as losing essential items like medications, travel documents, or personal valuables can be more than just an inconvenience—it can disrupt an entire trip. Travel insurance policies can offer coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage, helping to replace necessary items swiftly. It can also protect valuables such as electronics, jewellery, or important travel gear, which may be costly to replace. For seniors, having this layer of security ensures that even if something goes wrong, they can continue their journey with minimal stress and financial impact.
Activity Coverage for Active Seniors
Seniors often enjoy activities like golfing, hiking, and skiing while on holiday. Insure&Go’s policies can offer coverage for these activities, providing protection in case of injury or illness, as well as coverage for sports gear and rental equipment. However, it's essential to carefully read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to fully understand what is and isn’t covered, as some high-risk activities or specific equipment may require additional coverage or may be excluded from your policy. This ensures you have the right protection for the activities you plan to enjoy.
Final Tips
- Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS): Understand what’s covered and the exclusions, or contact your travel insurance provider to understand your options.
- Disclose all medical conditions: Being upfront about pre-existing medical conditions helps prevent claims rejections.
- Talk to your doctor: Discuss travel plans and medications. Ensure enough medication for the trip and carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor, in case authorities ask for it.
- Stay informed: Read Smartravellers travel advice for your destinations and subscribe for email updates.
- Leave a detailed itinerary with someone at home and maintain regular contact.
- Consider Travel Insurance: Get a free quote for added peace of mind.
Seniors Card SA members can receive a 15% discount on Insure&Go policies using the code SENSA15 at Insure&Go Australiaor by calling 1300 401 177.
This insurance is underwritten by Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company Limited (MSI), ABN 49 000 525 637, AFSL 240816. Europ Assistance Australia Pty Ltd, ACN 140 219 594, AFSL 552106, trading as InsureandGo and other brands, holds a binding authority from the insurer, MSI to issue contracts of insurance and to deal with or settle claims on MSI’s behalf and as MSI’s agent.
Any recommendations made about the insurance is general advice only and doesn’t take account of your particular needs and circumstances. For full details of the benefits, terms and conditions, limits, sub-limits and exclusions that may apply, please refer to the relevant Combined Product Disclosure Statement and Policy Wording and Financial Services Guide (PDS) available here and consider the PDS in light of your personal circumstances, prior to making any decision to acquire the product.