What should I do if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

Credit card travel insurance cover for pre-existing medical conditions varies depending on the policy. So here's what to do before you travel: Check the credit card insurance policy document to find out if your pre-existing condition is covered. Contact the insurance provider (not the credit card company) and ask if there is a way for you to get coverage for the pre-existing condition. Ask the insurer for confirmation that your pre-existing condition will be covered and/or that you'll be eligible for cover unrelated to the condition.

What domestic travel insurance can I get through my credit card?

A lot of credit cards offer interstate flight inconvenience insurance, which typically covers trips of up to 14 days when you book return flights to another state or territory in Australia. Some cards also offer rental vehicle excess in Australia insurance. If your international travel includes a domestic leg as part of the booking, it may also be eligible for a limited amount of cover through a credit card's international travel insurance policy. Credit card transit accident insurance offers cover for serious injuries or accidental death when you're travelling on a licensed plane, train, bus, ferry or other form of specified transportation. It also applies when you are boarding or leaving the transport. It's sometimes known as travel accident insurance and full details will be in each insurance policy booklet.

Do I need to travel with all my documents to get insurance?

Credit card travel insurance policies don't typically require you to travel with any extra documentation beyond what's needed for the trip (such as your passport, flight or other travel tickets and any required international visas). But it is useful to take a copy of the credit card travel insurance policy and proof you have activated the cover (e.g. a receipt showing pre-payment for the trip).

How do I get the policy number for my complimentary travel insurance?

You can check the credit card complimentary insurance policy booklet to see if there is a master or group policy number – this number is often used instead of an individual policy number. You could also call the insurance provider to get these details. If you need the policy details for a travel company or cruise, you can also ask for a letter of eligibility.

Does credit card travel insurance cover travel agent issues?

There is typically some cancellation cover for bookings made through travel agents. For example, if you had to cancel a trip because you were seriously injured and the travel agent you booked with charged a cancellation fee. But complimentary travel insurance won't cover travel agent errors and omissions. That's why you should always read the policy booklet for full details or call the insurance provider.

Can I get cover for trips that start overseas?

No, credit card travel insurance policies typically require your trip to start in Australia. Most policies also require you to have a return ticket to Australia before your trip.

Does credit card travel insurance cover COVID-19?

A lot of major banks and brands offer credit card travel insurance with some COVID-19 cover. American Express ANZ BankSA Bankwest Bank of Melbourne BOQ Specialist Bendigo Bank CommBank HSBC NAB P&N Bank St.George Virgin Money Westpac