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Long term travel insurance

Looking for long stay travel insurance for trips longer than 12 months?

Richard Laycock
Richard Laycock

Updated

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We’re committed to our readers and editorial independence. We don’t compare all products in the market and may receive compensation when we refer you to our partners, but this does not influence our opinions or reviews. Learn more about Finder.

Important:

Travel insurance rules continue to change as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. We’re working hard to keep up and make sure our guides are up to date, however some information may not be accurate during the pandemic. It’s even more important to double-check all details that matter to you before taking out cover. Please know that some policies may not be available through Finder at this time. Here are some helpful tips:
    • If you're buying a policy today, it's unlikely that you'll be covered for any coronavirus-related claims
    • If your travel plans go against government advice, your policy will most likely be voided and you won't be covered
    warningFinally, some good news! Domestic travel is picking up, so some insurers have started offering cover again 🦘 Just remember, you won't be covered for any pandemic related claims if you do take out domestic travel insurance.

    Most standard single trip policies will provide cover for a maximum of 12 months so if you're planning gaps year or a backpacking adventure, you may need the flexibility of a policy that will let you go for longer than 12 months or extend your cover while your away. Long term travel insurance is designed to cover travellers taking extended holidays. While the duration of cover varies between providers, some insurers cover trips that last up to 18 months. Most brands will allow you to extend your policy while you are away.

    Keep reading to find our more about long term travel insurance and who provides these policies.

    What travel insurance brands provide long stay policies?

    1 cover one cover onecover 1cover
    columbus direct
    travel insuranz
    worldcare world care
    BrandMaximum Trip Length*Conditions of ExtensionEnquire

    Picture not described

    Travel Insurance Saver

    		24 months

    You can purchase two 12 month policies back to back, to get up to 24 months of cover in total.

    InsureandGo18 monthsBackpackers insurance covers you up to 540 days on one trip. Cover can be extended but is subject to approval by InsureandGo.
    1cover12 monthsIf you choose to continue travelling after your first 12 months, you may be able to get a further 12 months of cover by taking an "Already Overeas" policy.
    columbus direct travel insurance logoColumbus Direct24 monthsYou can purchase a 12-month policy and apply to extend another 12 months which is subject to approval.

    fastcover

    fast cover fastcover
    		24 monthsYou can purchase a 12-month policy and apply to extend for another 12 months after your trip has started.
    Travel Insuranz12 monthsYou can apply for up to a 12 month extension (maximum extension of insurance is 12 months. Note: There is no cover for any insured person who is in the USA for 364 consecutive days or more.
    World Care12 monthsYou can purchase the new cover subject to approval and duration of cover cannot exceed the total of 12 months.
    Zoom logozoom logo
    Zoom    		12 monthsYou can purchase the new cover subject to approval and duration of cover cannot exceed the total of 12 months.

    Find out more about Long Term Travel Insurance

    Who might consider long term cover?

    Along road

    Are you going backpacking?

    The first group of people who can benefit from long term travel insurance are backpackers. Whether you’re on a gap year or have simply decided to chuck in your job and get out and see the world, a backpacking holiday is all about taking your time, which is why backpackers can benefit from a long term travel insurance policy. These policies generally cover:

    • Trips of up to 18 months
    • Additional cover for many sport and leisure activities
    • Affordable for budget travellers.

    Do you travel a lot for business?

    Many business travellers can also benefit from a long term travel insurance policy. Also referred to as expat insurance, this type of cover is designed to offer Australians who take up work postings overseas for extended periods of time. Because a business traveller’s insurance needs will differ from those of their colleagues back home and in their temporary overseas residence, they’ll need insurance specifically tailored to their needs. Policies offer cover for things like medical emergencies, trip disruptions and rental vehicle excess.

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    How much does long term travel insurance cost for popular destinations?

    We've calculated the average costs of long term cover (12 months) for popular destinations such as Bali, Thailand, Europe, South America and the USA.
    You'll notice how the price differs depending on your destination, for example, the difference between a 12-month policy in Bali versus the USA is $709.38. A contributing factor to this huge difference is the fact that medical care in the USA is really expensive which increases the overall premium of your travel insurance.

    Costs based on a 25 year old travelling for 12-months. Prices subject to change. Graph last updated: August 2019Back to top

    How do I find suitable cover for my trip?

    When you’re shopping for insurance of any kind, the best thing you can do is conduct plenty of research and shop around. Travel insurance is an important expense for all types of travel, so finding a policy that meets your needs is crucial. First, you’ll need to consider your trip:

    • Do you know where you're going and what you're doing? Assessing your trip plans will help you determine the type and level of cover you need, and once that’s done you can start comparing policies.
    • Have you read the PDS? You should also read the policy documents of a number of competing insurance plans to work out what is and isn’t covered under each one.
    • Have you got multiple quote? Obtaining multiple quotes is a good idea to help you determine how much cover will cost and the true value of each long term travel insurance policy on offer.
    • Does the policy cover the entirety of your journey? Make sure the policy you choose will cover you for the entire length of your trip and offer protection against any risks you are likely to face while travelling.
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    What are the benefits of this cover?

    While cover differs between policies and providers, a long term travel insurance policy will typically offer the following benefits to policyholders:

    • Am I covered for overseas medical emergencies? You will receive cover for the cost of ambulance transportation, medical expenses, hospital expenses and emergency dental expenses incurred while overseas.
    • What happens if I need medical evacuation? Many policies will also provide coverage for your emergency medical evacuation, or repatriation back to Australia if required.

    Sunny

    • Does the policy cover funeral expenses? If you die as a result of an injury or illness you sustain during your trip, many policies provide a benefit payment to help cover your funeral expenses.
    • Am I covered for cancellation fees and lost deposits? If unforeseen circumstances (for example illness) force you to cancel or cut short your trip, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost of any cancellation fees or non-refundable deposits for prepaid travel arrangements.
    • Does the policy cover luggage and personal effects? If your luggage and personal effects are lost, stolen or damaged, you’ll receive cover for the cost of their repair or replacement.
    • Are you covered for travel delays? You’ll receive cover for any extra costs you incur as a result of unforeseen travel delays.
    • What happens if my luggage delayed? If a travel provider loses or misplaces your luggage, you’ll receive funds to but items like emergency clothing and toiletries.
    • Are my travel documents cover? Important travel documents, including your passport, will be covered by your policy. You’ll also be protected against the theft of cash from your person.
    • Does the policy cover rental vehicle excess? If your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen, your insurance policy will cover the expensive rental company excess.
    • Are sports and leisure activities covered? Long term policies typically include a higher level of cover for sports and leisure activities than normal insurance policies.
    • Can I get cover if I have a pre-existing medical condition? It’s also possible to apply for cover for certain pre-existing medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease.

    Key benefits of Long Term Travel Insurance

    • 24-hour emergency support
    • Cover additional high-risk activities such as mountain biking, paragliding, rock climbing and skydiving
    • Cover for trip curtailment due to an emergency
    • Cover for valuables like cameras, camping gear, e-readers, laptops, phones and tablets
    • Standard sports and activities covered including bungee jumping, hiking, kayaking, rafting, scuba diving and tubing
    • Unlimited overseas medical expenses
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    Can I renew my policy overseas?

    While insurance providers will differ in their approach to policies, many companies will allow you to renew your insurance cover while you’re overseas. As many backpacker holidays are unplanned — you often don’t know how long you’ll stay in one town, let alone how long you’ll be away for altogether — this is an important feature of many policies. It provides the flexibility many travellers need to ensure that they still have a sufficient level of cover in place.

    Use the table above to find out which travel insurers allow you to renew your cover overseas

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    What are some common general exclusions?

    Though no two long term insurance policies are the same, you will generally not have your claim paid if:

    • Your claim results from a pre-existing medical condition for which you are not covered
    • Your claim relates to any elective medical, dental, cosmetic or surgical procedure
    • You fail to take reasonable care to minimise your loss or injury
    • Your claim relates to you committing an unlawful act
    • Your claim relates to psychiatric, nervous, mental or behavioural disorders
    • Your claim relates to physical, mental or emotional exhaustion
    • Your claim is a result of an intentional self-inflicted injury
    • Your claim is a result of the use of alcohol or drugs, except drugs prescribed by a medical practitioner
    • Your claim relates to a sexually transmitted disease
    • Your claim arises as a result of pregnancy or childbirth
    • Your claim relates to riding a motorcycle (certain exceptions may apply depending on your policy)
    • You participate in professional sport or adventure activities
    • You participate in paid work that is not for your usual employer and was not arranged beforehand
    • Your claim relates to an act of war.
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    Common long stay questions

    Question: Who can benefit from long term travel insurance?

    • Answer: Anyone who is planning an extended trip (typically anything longer than three months) may be able to benefit from this type of cover. This includes backpackers and also business travellers.

    Question: How much will cover cost?

    • Answer: Exactly how much your cover will cost will depend on a range of factors, including your age, where you’re travelling, how long you’re travelling for and the activities you plan on participating in on your trip.

    Question: How can I compare policies?

    • Answer: Start comparing policies by using the resources available at finder.com.au. Read the product disclosure statements of a number of policies to learn the features, benefits, limits and exclusions offered. Obtain a number of quotes so that you can also get a good idea of the true value of each policy.

    Question: Can I take out cover if I’ve already left home?

    • Answer: Yes, it’s entirely possible to take out coverage if you’ve already started your journey. Just make sure to read all the relevant policy documents closely before you sign on the dotted line.

    Compare long term travel insurance policies and
    If you’re planning an extended trip overseas for business or pleasure, don’t forget to take out an effective form of travel insurance. Long term travel insurance policies provide much-needed financial cover for an extended period of time, ensuring that you will be looked after if something goes wrong when you’re far from home.

    Compare quotes for Long Term Travel Insurance

    Picture: GettyImages

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    20 Responses

    1. Default Gravatar
      ChristopherJuly 15, 2019

      I will be traveling to Germany on a 1 year WH (working holiday) visa and have booked a policy through budget direct for that year. My plans have changed and I will now be staying for 2-3 months on a tourist before applying for the WH visa. The visa requires travel insurance for the entire stay, so is it possible to get a second policy with another provider that begins at the end of the original policy that will carry the cover until the end of WH visa?
      Thanks for any help you can provide.

      Reply
      • Default Gravatar
        NikkiJuly 16, 2019

        Hi Christopher,

        Thanks for your question.

        It is possible to get another travel insurance for the first 3 months you are on a travel visa. Note though that purchasing another policy can be costly. You can speak to your insurer (Budget Direct) if they can extend your policy for more than 12 months and change the duration of your trip. Otherwise, you can purchase another policy for the time you are holding a tourist visa in Germany.

        As a friendly reminder, carefully review the Terms and Condiitions and Product Disclosure Statement of the product before applying. You may also contact the both insurance providers should you have any questions about their policy.

        Hope this helps!

        Best,
        Nikki

        Reply
    2. Default Gravatar
      MiaMarch 29, 2019

      Hi,
      My son is in USA with visa working as a chef. Not sure when he plans to come home. Can you please advise suitable companies that offer comprehensive health insurance for him whilst in USA.

      Thanks

      Reply
      • Default Gravatar
        NikkiMarch 30, 2019

        Hi Mia,

        Thanks for reaching out! There are two ways that he can access health insurance for expatriates.

        One is through his employer if they offer cover for workers overseas, and another is by taking out an international health insurance policy himself directly from an insurer and there is a page that shows health cover while your son is working in the US.As a friendly reminder, carefully review the Product Disclosure Statement of the product before applying. You may also contact the insurance provider should you have any questions about their policy.

        Best,
        Nikki

        Reply
    3. Default Gravatar
      NettieMarch 12, 2019

      Hello there,
      I will be working in Thailand for 12 months. I am a fifty year old who will not need any “adventure” insurance.
      Could you please give me a list of options for long term travel insurance?
      Thank you

      Reply
      • Default Gravatar
        NikkiMarch 12, 2019

        Hi Nettie,

        Thanks for getting in touch! Our list above that says “What travel insurance brands provide long stay policies?” It shows providers with 12-18 months of coverage. As a friendly reminder, carefully review the Product Disclosure Statement of the product before applying. You may also contact the insurance provider should you have any questions about their policy.

        Hope this was helpful. Don’t hesitate to message us back if you have more questions.

        Best,
        Nikki

        Reply
    4. Default Gravatar
      sandraMay 4, 2016

      I am planning on being in the USA for 5 months- most policies i have seen only cover for 90 days maximum. What insurance can i get for the duration of my stay?

      Reply
      • Avatarfinder Customer Care
        RichardMay 5, 2016Staff

        Hi Sandra,

        Thanks for your question. The table at the top of this page displays the maximum single trip durations for the travel insurance brands in our panel, most of whom offer cover for 12 months. The 90 days you’re referring to is for annual travel insurance policies. Annual travel insurance provides you with cover for multiple trips during a year (i.e. multiple trips where you go overseas and return to Australia). Since you’re only travelling to the USA, or even if you are going to other countries, as long as it’s all part of one continued trip overseas, you’ll be able to get cover.

        I hope this was helpful,
        Richard

        Reply
    5. Default Gravatar
      DavidApril 5, 2016

      I am travelling to Europe and Asia but as I do not know when I will return (sometime in the next 12 months) I have not booked a return ticket. Is the lack of return ticket/date a problem for all insurers?

      Reply
      • Avatarfinder Customer Care
        RichardApril 5, 2016Staff

        Hi David,

        Thanks for your question. Not all travel insurance brands require a return ticket. You may find the following page helpful:
        Backpackers travel insurance

        I hope this was helpful,
        Richard

        Reply
    6. Default Gravatar
      GigiMarch 2, 2016

      Hi,I’m moving to the UK this year with working/holiday visa and confused on which type of insurances I should get. I’m planning to stay and work there for 2 years but definitely thinking of doing backpacking around Europe while I’m there and also going back to Australia during Christmas periods. So is long term policy is the best or is there a better type that works for me? Thanks for your help.

      Reply
      • Avatarfinder Customer Care
        RichardMarch 2, 2016Staff

        Hi Gigi,

        Thanks for your question. finder.com.au is a comparison service and we are not permitted to provide our users with personalised financial advice or product recommendations.

        As you will be away for two years, you may be unable to find a travel insurance policy that can cover you for that much time, as the maximum travel period covered by Australian insurers is generally 18 months.

        It also depends on what you’re wanting to cover. If you are wanting to cover your luggage and self in transit, you may want to consider a one-way travel insurance policy. Depending on your situation, you may also have medical cover due to the Reciprocal Health Care Agreement between Australia and the United Kingdom.

        If you are wanting cover for travel while you are already overseas, there may be options available both through Australian travel insurance brands and UK providers.

        You should contact any travel insurance brand before agreeing to cover and ask them whether or not their policy will be suited to your situation. Make sure you review the relevant product disclosure statements (PDS) to review any exclusions or restrictions that may apply.

        I hope this was helpful,
        Richard

        Reply
    7. Default Gravatar
      PaulFebruary 23, 2016

      traveling to Indonesia. Will be living there permanently for 12 months other than possible one or two week visits back to Australia. will also need to fly to Singapore to renew my visa every 2 months,one day visits.
      i would like advice on what comprehensive medical cover is best for me ?

      Paul.

      Reply
      • Avatarfinder Customer Care
        RichardFebruary 23, 2016Staff

        Hi Paul,

        Thanks for your question. finder.com.au is a comparison service and we are not permitted to provide personalised advice. Unfortunately, you will only be able to have continued cover until your return to Australia. Once you return back to Australia the cover will end. Generally, travel insurance policies will include a clause similar to:
        “All cover ends on the earlier of the date you return home or the last of the travelling dates shown on your certificate of insurance”

        Depending on the length of time you’ll be away you may be able to get an annual travel insurance policy. These policies are limited when it comes to the duration of a single trip. The maximum length of time covered by a travel insurance brand in our panel is 93 days. If the time you’re going to be away between return trips to Australia is more than 93 days, you will need to look into getting seperate policies for each time you return to Australia.

        I hope this was helpful,
        Richard

        Reply
    8. Default Gravatar
      LindaJuly 30, 2015

      I am enquiring about travel insurance for an Australian citizen who is travelling to Canada under the Internation Experience Canada. The person is 21 years of age and has a work visa to stay in the country for 2 years. Apparently upon entry they need health insurance for the 2 year period. Do you know who could provide this insurance in Australia and prior to departure. Thank you

      Reply
      • Avatarfinder Customer Care
        RichardJuly 30, 2015Staff

        Hi Linda,

        Thanks for your question. finder.com.au is a comparison service and not an insurer. You will need to check with the immigration department as to whether Long Term Travel Insurance is an acceptable form of insurance, whether you need to have cover from a provider in your host nation or whether you can have cover with an Australian provider (such as BUPA International health insurance).

        I hope this was helpful,
        Richard

        Reply
    9. Default Gravatar
      TonyMarch 22, 2015

      I am heading off to live in Asia for a year. I may come back and forth to Australia but the time away on any one trip may be over 90 days. What is the best travel insurance for me?

      Reply
      • Avatarfinder Customer Care
        RichardMarch 23, 2015Staff

        Hi Tony,

        Thanks for your question. As this is a unique situation, you may need to speak with an insurer directly about creating a custom policy that allows you to make multiple return journeys. InsureandGo have a backpackers travel insurance policy that allows for one return trip to Australia. Alternatively, Travel Insuranz provide an annual policy that covers individual journeys of up to 93 days.

        I hope this was helpful,
        Richard

        Reply
    10. Default Gravatar
      SallyFebruary 13, 2015

      I’m backpacking for a year. I know I will go to most European countries, USA, Canada but other then that I’m kind of just winging it and going where ever people lead me. Hence I’m not 100% sure of all my destinations nor all my activities. What should I do to make sure I am covered everywhere I go?

      Reply
      • Avatarfinder Customer Care
        RichardFebruary 13, 2015Staff

        Hi Sally,

        Thanks for your question. Unfortunately, finder.com.au is a comparison service and not an insurer and we are not permitted to make product recommendation. However, since you are travelling to both the US and Europe, you will need to select worldwide cover. Since you are unsure of the activities you are going to engage in, it is really up to you with whether or not you go with a comprehensive policy or not. Make sure the policy you go with does cover you for year long trips.

        Please have a look at our backpacker travel insurance page for more information:

        backpacker travel insurance page
        I hope this was helpful,
        Richard

        Reply
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