Do I really need travel insurance for domestic trips within Australia?
Compare Australian travel insurance quotes for domestic trips
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What are the cheapest domestic travel insurance policies? (One-week trip)
Here are the top three cheapest domestic policies for a one-week trip:
| Policy | Price |
|---|---|
| Go Insurance Basic | $20 |
| Online Travel Insurance | $23.60 |
| Tick Travel Insurance | $26.43 |
Prices are based on a 30 year old traveller. Last checked on August 2016 and is subject to change.
What are the best* domestic travel insurance policies available?
Here are the top three purchased domestic policies by finder.com.au users:
| Policy | Cancellation fees and lost deposits | Luggage and personal effects |
|---|---|---|
| Virgin Domestic Travel Insurance | Unlimited | $10,000 |
| Woolworths Comprerhensive | $12,000 | $10,000 |
| Downunder Travel Insurance | $10,000 | $5,000 |
10 mishaps Australia Only travel insurance can cover you for
Travel mishap | How can travel insurance cover you? |
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1. Cancellations
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2. Rental excess cover
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3. Lost and stolen items
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4. Additional expenses
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5. Travel Delays
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6. Special events
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7. Accidental death
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8. Accidental disability
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9. Travel service provider insolvency
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10. Hijacking
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Additional Australia-only cover options you might want to consider
Extra cover for high-value items
Most providers will allow you to list expensive items to be covered that have greater value than the cover limit specified under the policy.
Removal of excess
This option lets you pay a small fee to remove any excess that is charged for a claim. This fee is usually around $25.
Ski and snowboarding cover
Some policies allow you to add cover for Australian snow activities.
Cruising cover
Some domestic brands cover you on cruises. You can get protection against missed ports, evacuations and more.
Is travel insurance worth it for domestic flights?
The cost of a flight vs the cost of travel insurance (for two weeks)
By compiling the average cost of domestic travel insurance policies on finder.com.au and the average cost of a flight from Sydney to Melbourne, we've determined that a $47 domestic travel insurance policy is a small price to protect a potentially larger expense if you have to cancel your flight for reasons outside of your control.
Still have questions around questions around domestic flight cover?
Will my credit card cover me for domestic flights?
Depending on the card, you are covered for cancellation of domestic travel arrangements if you must cancel for reasons outside of your control. Reasons include:
- If you, or a relative passes away, becomes seriously injured or becomes seriously ill
- You are quarantined
- Participating cardholder or spouse is unexpectedly retrenched
What you need to be aware of:
- Travel arrangements must be booked using the credit card
- A minimum spend on travel arrangements with card is required for cover to be activated
- The excess tends to be higher than standalone policies with no option to remove the excess charge. The excess may end up being more than the price of your flight!
- Personal computers, electronic equipment, jewellery or watches checked-in as luggage is usually not covered
- Cover is usually not provided for business-related trips
Will my airline cover me if I have to cancel my flight for reasons outside of my control?
- No, this is where it is important to consider travel insurance
Will my airline reimbursed my if my flight is cancelled or delayed?
- If your flight is delayed or cancelled by the airline, they will attempt to rebook you on the next available flight on their services at no extra cost.
- Alternatively, if the airline is unable to rebook you on the next flight, the applicable fare will be refunded
- The airline will not be responsible for any additional cost that you incur as a result of cancellation. This is where travel insurance comes in
The airline will not be responsible for any additional cost that you incur as a result of cancellation. This is where travel insurance comes in.
Will travel insurance cover additional expenses?
Cost of domestic travel insurance is an average based on policies for a one-week trip, for a 32 year old traveller. Cost of the flight is based on the average online cost of a return flight from Sydney to Melbourne on 28 October 2015.
How does it compare to cover offered by my airline?
Click on the features below to see how airline cover sizes up with standalone travel insurance
Jetstar vs Tiger vs Domestic Travel Insurance
| Feature | Jetstar | Tiger | Domestic Travel Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cancellation of ticket | $5,000 | $4,500 | $10,000 |
| Baggage | $5,000 | $4,500 | $6,000 |
| Car rental excess | 0 | 0 | $5,000 |
| Resumption of journey | $750 | $700 | $6,000 |
What form of cover can airlines offer?
Most airlines will offer ticket cancellation and baggage protection when you are purchasing your ticket. For domestic trips this cover usually costs about $15 and provides;
- Cover for cancellation and rearrangement of flights (usually up to around $2,000)
- Cover for luggage lost or damaged in transit (usually between $500-$1000 in cover)
For $47, domestic travel insurance can cover this and more for two weeks
You are also covered for:
- Car rental excess charges
- Cancellation of other pre-booked expenses i.e. accommodation, tours
- Loss, theft or damage of luggage, personal belongings at your destination (not just on flights)
- Loss of income cover if you're injured/disabled and unable to work
If you're looking for some extra protection without having to pay too much more, a domestic policy could be the right choice.
Don't believe it? Compare quotes now
How do popular domestic policies compare?
Benefit comparison for popular policies (Priced around $47 for two weeks)
| Feature | Simply Travel Insurance | Worldcare | Citibank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel delay |
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| Accidental Death |
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| Luggage & Personal Effects |
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| Cancellation Fees & Lost Deposits |
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| Personal Liability |
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| Rental Vehicle Excess |
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| Apply for Cover | Get quote | Get quote | Get quote |
Am I covered for car rental excess?
Car rental excess charge vs cost of domestic travel insurance
Cost of excess based on the average cost from Budget. Average cost taken from Choice.com.au's 2015 study.
What is car rental excess?
This is the charge you are liable to pay if you crash or damage a rental vehicle. Excess charges can be anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 for prestige vehicles.
Can I get rid of rental excess charges?
When renting a car, you are given the option to reduce or remove this liability from either:
- The rental company themselves. Typically chosen for convenience, but may be the more expensive option.
- A special car rental excess insurance policy. Specific car rental excess insurance is great for vehicles that require a high excess.
- Your domestic travel insurance policy. Using the included cover from your domestic travel insurance is a cost effective choice when travelling.
How does domestic travel insurance cover me?
Domestic policies with cover for car rental excess which will cover any excess that is payable on the car rental company's motor vehicle insurance. This will cover any excess charged if the car is
- Stolen
- Involved in a crash or damaged
- Needs to be returned if you're unfit to do so
Note: You may be liable for rental excess charges even for small scratches and dents.
Whats the benefit using travel insurance to cover rental excess?
The benefits of using domestic travel insurance include:
- Removing excess up to the amount stated in the policy. A travel insurance policy will usually have enough cover to completely remove the excess charge from a rental company. Most rental companies on the other hand will only let you reduce your excess.
- It can work out cheaper than using a car rental company's excess reduction option. Travel insurance policies will cover you for excess up to the length of your policy, whereas most rental companies will charge you a daily rate (more than half the cost of a 7 day travel insurance policy).
- Travel insurance is included. Don't forget, you'll get all the other benefits of domestic cover such as flight cancellation.
General requirements of car rental excess cover to be aware of
- No payment will be paid for violation of the rental agreement
- No payment will be paid if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol when the event takes place
- No payment will be paid if you are driving the rental vehicle without a license
- There may be no payment if you don't provide documentation of the quote and repair account
Car rental charges vs travel insurance cover
| Car rental company | Standard Excess Charged | Excess reduced to | Daily rate to reduce excess (on a seven day hire) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avis |
| $342 | $24 per day |
| Budget |
| $342 | $23 per day |
| Europcar |
| $1,000 | $27 per day |
| Hertz |
| $0 | $29 per day |
| Thrifty |
| $0 | $33 per day |
| Travel insurance | Excess amount covered | Excess reduced to | Cost of travel insurance (for 7 days) |
| Average costing policy |
| $0 | $41.60 for 7 days |
*Prices shown accurate March, 2016. May be subject to change.
The cost of not having car rental excess cover
Read the case study
Heavy road trip expenses
A innocent road trip with a rental car
Greg and his wife Gwen decided to take a road trip down to Melbourne up Australia’s east coast for the long weekend. Instead of taking their boring old hatchback for the trip, they rented a luxury vehicle from a rental car company to add some fun to their one-week journey.
Travel insurance didn't seem important
A day before they left, Greg considered taking out a domestic travel insurance policy for $47. As well as cover for personal liability, cancellation fees and more, the policy would have provided $6,000 cover for rental vehicle insurance excess. However, as it was only a road trip, Greg put the thought in the back of his mind and forgot to purchase cover
When Greg picked up the rental car, the rental company offered the option of purchasing a car rental excess reduction for $25 a day. The cost was quoted $175 in total, to reduce the excess payable in the case of an accident from $3,000 to $100. Greg was keen to pinch his pennies and chose not to purchase cover.
So when Greg failed to check his mirror and reversed into a Mini in the carpark of a fast food restaurant, he knew he’d made a big mistake. Not only did he break a tail light on the rental, Greg also dented the bumper and significantly scratched the paintwork. Without domestic travel insurance cover in place or even the rental company’s excess reduction waiver, he had to pay the standard insurance excess of $3,000.
Expenses that Greg faced
- $3,000
Cost of domestic travel insurance
- $47
Amount that he could have saved with travel insurance
- $2,953
Learn more about car rental excess insurance here
Am I covered for cruises in Australia?
Whether abroad or at home, cruising carries undeniable travel risks. The good news is that domestic policies will allow you to get cover for cruising in Australian waters.
Compare domestic cruise cover
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What cruise benefits do domestic policies typically offer?
The typical benefits a domestic cruise policy can provide include:
- Missed shored excursions. This refers to missed day trips on islands or at different stops.
- Missed port connections. This covers you if you miss connecting cruises due to reasons outside of your control.
- Additional baggage allowance. This protects you if your baggage is lost or damaged on board.
How do I get cover for medical expenses while cruising in Australian waters?
You can get cover by selecting the 'pacific' region when you are applying on the travel insurance providers page. The region you must select may vary with each page, so be sure to follow prompts on each providers application page.
When will I actually be paid for my trip cancellation?
Domestic travel insurance offers a cancellation cover to cover a range of pre-booked expenses in the event that you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances.
What cancellations will you usually be covered for?
- Travel expenses
- Accommodation expenses
- Pre-paid meal expenses
- Excursions
- Tours
- Activities
- Cancellation for flights and accommodation
Under what circumstances can a trip be cancelled?
- Unforeseeable death, injury or illness of relative that resides in Australia
- You have to go to court or have jury duty
- Accident in vehicle you were planning to use on a self-drive trip a week before you planned to travel
- You are a member of the armed forces, police, fire, nursing or ambulance services and are required for duty
- You are made redundant, provided you are eligible for redundancy payments as defined under current law
- You need to stay home due to flood, fire, storm or burglary in your place of residence a certain period of time before you planned to leave
Check with your policy
Conditions around cancellation can vary greatly between insurers so it is always best to know exactly what events are covered and what you stand to receive.
Is it worth getting an annual domestic policy?
If you are someone that travels regularly each year, it might be worth looking into annual multi-trip insurance to cover you for multiple trips over a 12-month period. Most insurers will offer both single-trip and annual cover for frequent travellers.
What are the benefits of taking out an annual policy?
An annual policy can offer both convenience and great savings, as you will only need to apply for cover once and have the peace of mind that you are covered for all domestic journeys you take in any 12-month period. This option can be much more economic than applying for multiple policies over the course of a year.
Who should consider an annual domestic travel insurance policy?
An annual policy is only really suitable for people that travel 3 or more times per year. If you only need cover for 1-2 trips, it is probably more economic for you to take out a single-trip policy. Most insurers will not provide annual policies to travellers over 60 years of age, as they need to assess any health risks that they may present. Annual policies are also a great option for people that need to travel last minute for business.
What are the requirements of annual multi-trip policies?
- Cover is generally in place for a period of 12 months
- Unlimited number of journeys within any 12 month period
- The benefit limits and sub-limits are reinstated at the beginning of each journey taken by policy owner
- Maximum period of cover cannot exceed 90 days. This is applicable for vacation and business trips
- Maximum age of traveller is generally 60 years old
Can I get an Annual Policy to cover both international and domestic trips?
Yes, it is possible to get an annual policy that will cover both trips within Australia and trips overseas. This could be a good option if you're looking to take a cruise trip but stopping off at Australian ports, your work see's you regularly travel both interstate and abroad or if you just love to getaway both within Australia and overseas. It is important to note that not all insurers will cover both domestic and international trips so make sure you check the terms and conditions.
Learn more of the benefits of annual cover
Is domestic winter sports travel cover worth it?
If you're heading to the slopes, it may be worth purchasing domestic travel cover for winter sports related losses.
A benefit will be paid for:
- Unused ski passes or lessons that you have paid for but have had to cancel for reasons out of your control
- Damage, loss or theft to your own or hired equipment
- Piste closure due to bad weather
- Trip cancellation due to extreme weather conditions
- Emergency transport to hospital from ski-fields if in an accident
How much extra will it cost me?
Not much. A quote for a domestic policy for a 35 year old male taking a two week trip was increased from $40.44 to $66.73...well worth it when you consider how haphazard ski trips can be!
What will I pay for a domestic policy?
Factors that influence your premium
- Your age
- The length of trip
- The level of cover you choose i.e. the range of benefits and what you will be paid for each in a claim
- Any pre-existing medical conditions you have
To give you an idea of what you might expect to pay
A 35 year old male on a two week domestic trip on a
- Basic level of cover = $36.40
- Comprehensive level of cover = $80.29
After prices from a few different policies? Compare quotes
Six steps to getting cheaper travel insurance for domestic trips?
There is an old saying in the insurance industry that if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. While the decision on what cover to take out should never be based purely on price, it is important to take the necessary steps to avoid overpaying for cover not tailored to your needs. Many people are surprised at how affordable domestic travel cover can be if they take the right steps to consider what they actually need cover for and weigh up the different options available.
- 1. Assess what other cover you already have in place. It is worth reviewing what other types of insurance you have in place that would be able to provide a benefit in the event of certain losses occurring. For example, your current car insurance policy may provide cover for rental vehicle excess or your home and contents insurance may provide cover for loss of valuable items and luggage. Similarly, you may be entitled to compensation from your transport for losses that have occurred during transit. The discovery of this additional cover may lead you to taking out a more affordable basic form of cover.
- 2. Compare basic and comprehensive options. Most insurers will offer both basic and comprehensive domestic travel insurance options. It is worth reviewing both to see what is more suitable for your situation. The reduced selection of benefits on a basic plan may still be suitable for your situation.
- 3. Compare pricing from different providers. While this may be an obvious one, the majority of people will still take out cover with the first provider they come across or one that they have heard of previously. It is essential to review different pricing from a number of providers and take the time to ensure you are receiving an adequate level of cover.
- 4. Go online. Domestic travel cover provided by insurance agents or airlines is generally more expensive because they earn commission on the sale of the cover. Taking the time to go online and hunt out a policy yourself may save you a significant amount of money.
- 5. Annual or single-trip. If you are a frequent traveller you may benefit from taking out an annual policy to provide cover for multiple trips under a single policy. This option is usually only suitable for people that travel 3 or more times per year.
- 6. Review expensive items. Before taking out extra cover for expensive items, it is important to review if the items you are looking to cover are not under the cover threshold already provided. As an example, OneCover will provide cover for items that have a value of up to $750 with laptops, handheld computers, cameras and computers covered up to $5,000.
Traps to watch out for when choosing a domestic policy
Every year there are stories of people left devastated after learning their domestic travel insurance policy was unable to provide a benefit for their claim because it fell outside of what was covered in their policy. Here are some key tips to avoid taking out insurance that leaves you exposed in the event of a loss.
- Cheapest isn't always best. While it is important to find a competitively priced policy, basing your purchase purely on price may leave you drastically under-protected. Research the policy features on offer and know what you are covered for. Cheaper cover will often have higher excess charges and greatly reduced benefit levels.
- Watch out for credit card insurance. If you are relying on insurance provided from your credit card provider make sure you know what you stand to receive in the event of the claim. While this may be an affordable option, credit card travel cover will often include a range of exclusions that you may require cover for.
- Per-item limits. It is crucial to know the conditions for payments for lost luggage and expensive items. While the policy may state "up to $5,000 cover for lost items", there may only be a benefit of $600 per item provided. These sub-limits are often applied to expensive items.
- Read the fine print closely. While it may be a tedious process, it is crucial to read closely through the policy terms and conditions to know when a benefit will and won't be paid.
- Keep proof of purchase. It's not uncommon for travel insurance providers to require policy owners to provide proof of purchase on expensive items before making a benefit payment. It is important to be clear on what your insurer requires in order to make a successful claim. For some a photo of the item may be enough but others will require a copy of the receipt.
- Cover for the activities you plan to do on your trip. If you are participating in particular sports or activities on your trip it is important to find out whether or not it will be covered.
- Successful claim. In the event that you need to make a claim on your domestic travel insurance, it is essential you take the necessary steps to follow the requirements of the policy as closely as possible. While it may be tedious, doing this will ensure the full claim is paid and there is no delay for the payment.
Not sure which policy to choose? Follow these steps
You might have received quotes for a number of different policies but are struggling to choose between different options. Here are some key items to watch out for:
- Is there a cooling off period? Most policies will provide cooling off periods of between 14 and 30 days whereby you can cancel the policy if you are not satisfied with the policy. The policy must not have already commenced and you must not have already left for your trip.
- How many cover features are provided? Review the different benefits on offer and read closely through the conditions of payment.
- How much will you be paid for different losses? It is critical to review the maximum amount of payment that will be provided for different benefits.
- Maximum entry age? Many providers will have age limits on their standard plans. Senior travellers may need to look for a specified seniors travel insurance policy.
- What isn't covered? Take the time to review the policy exclusions.
- Is the claims process straightforward? It is worth having a read through the provider's claims process to know what will be required in the event of a claim.
- How far from home will you have to travel? Most providers will require you to be more than 250km from your place of residence for the policy cover to apply.
- Emergency assistance provided? Most providers should be able to provide 24 hour emergency assistance anywhere in Australia. Get a clear understanding of the support that the provider is able to deliver in the event of an emergency.
- How much is cover? While the decision on what cover to take out should never be made on price, it is still worth reviewing the premium payment to ensure the cover provided reflects the payment required.
- Can you remove the excess? Most policies will provide the option of paying a small additional fee to remove any excess on the policy.
- Free child cover? Most policies will provide complimentary cover for your spouse or dependent children provided the children are under the age of 21 and not working full-time.
Common questions when it comes to domestic cover
Q. I’m already covered by Medicare...is it worth it?
A. You might already be covered by Medicare or private health insurance but what about cover for cancelled flights, lost luggage, car rental excess charges. These are just some of the things a domestic policy can cover. With a two-week domestic policy starting at as little as $35, it’s a little expense for great peace of mind.
Q. Will I be covered by Medicare if I go to see a doctor in another state?
A. Yes. Medicare will cover you regardless of what state you are travelling in.
Q. How does it compare in price to cover from an airline?
A. Airline baggage and ticket cancellation cover usually starts from around $15. For only about $10 more, domestic travel insurance can cover you for a whole range of other losses.
Q. I am over 70. Can I take out cover?
A. Yes. Most insurers will cover you if over 70 years of age. In some cases you may be required to submit details of your medical history in order to take out cover.
Q. Can I extend my policy?
A. Yes. You can contact your insurer while the policy is still active to request an extension. You may be required to provide reasoning for extension of your policy.
Q. How long will it take to claim?
A. This may vary between providers though generally claims can be settled within 10 days of the claim being made. In some cases the insurer may request further information, which may delay the claim further.
Q. Can I wait till I return home from my travels before claiming?
A. Yes. Provided it is within the required timeframe (usually between 30-60 days). That said, it is usually much less hassle if you just contact the insurer immediately so you know if you need to provide any further evidence.
Q. Am I covered by home and contents insurance for lost items?
A. Some home and contents insurance policies will provide you with cover for lost items even if you are travelling within Australia. If this is the case, your Home and Contents insurer may be liable to pay a portion of the claim.
Q. Do I have to be a certain distance from my home for cover to apply?
A. In most cases yes. Most insurers will require you to be at least 200km from your place of residence for your domestic policy to apply.
Q. Cover on my credit card enough?
A. Most credit cards don't offer cover for domestic travel, only for international trips. That said, there are some cards that will offer cover for cancelled flights, delays and missed connections under "inconvenience cover". Find out more about how credit card travel insurance compares to standalone cover.
Q. Would I be covered for cancellation if I am unable to travel for work reasons?
A. Trip cancellation for work reasons may be covered in the event of retrenchment or if you are required to work because you are part of an emergency service i.e. defence forces or fire-fighter.
Q. I’m taking a cruise in Australian waters...is domestic travel insurance enough?
A. You will not be covered by Medicare or Private Health Insurance for any medical related losses while at sea, even if travelling between Australian ports so it’s definitely worth taking out an international policy. Learn more of the benefits of cruise travel insurance.
Q. Is Norfolk Island covered under domestic policies?
A. There are no Medicare benefits for Norfolk Island so you will need an international policy. As an example, for the provider Covermore, this would fall under region Indonesia, South West Pacific, Norfolk Island and New Zealand.
Travelling in Australia? Tips to stay safe
Whether you are visiting Australia for the first time or you have lived here all your life, it's crucial to exercise the right degree of caution on your travels. This section will explore some common risks that travellers of this beautiful country should be aware of:
Road Safety
Alcohol
If you are a fully licensed driver, you must maintain a blood alcohol level below 0.5 to ensure you are not charged with driving under the influence. Learner and provisional drivers and heavy vehicle drivers are not permitted to drive after drinking alcohol
Roadside Assistance
It’s important to familiarise yourself with the different roadside assistance bodies operating in Australia. Notable organisation include the Royal Automobile Association (RAA) and The National Roads and Motorists Association (NRMA)
Driving in Remote Areas
Australia is home to some of the most remote stretches of road in the world. It is crucial for anybody driving in remote areas, especially in arid areas of the outback, that you have adequate fuel, water, food, maps/GPS navigation and if necessary radio communications. Also ensure that you are in a vehicle that can handle off-road conditions if getting off the beaten track and that you check road conditions before beginning your journey.
Plan your trip carefully and be sure to let a third party know exactly where you plan to travel and how long you expect it should take you to get there.
Speed Limits
Speed limits are heavily enforced on Australian roads and highways. Generally, the maximum speed permitted is 110 km per hour.
Activities
Swimming and surfing at the beach
While they may be some of the most beautiful in the world, Australia’s beaches can present risks to both confident and learner swimmers. Powerful currents can form quickly and many beaches in Australia are unpatrolled, particularly in winter months. Some tips for staying safe:
- Swim between the flags
- Swim at patrolled beaches if you are not a confident swimmer
- Beware of sandbanks, exposed rocks
- Avoid diving off rock ledges/breakwalls
- Don’t run and dive into the water
- Don’t swim alone at night
- Don’t swim under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Bushwalking
Similar to driving in remote areas, bushwalking or hiking in the wilderness presents it’s own risks to travellers. Some handy tips to stay safe include
- Check length and difficulty of trail
- Tell a third party where you are going and how long you expect it to take
- Wear protective footwear and suncream
- Take a map and plenty of water and food if necessary
- Avoid feeding or playing with native animals
Skiing/Snowboarding
Australia might not have the same calibre of mountains for skiing as those in Europe, Canada or America but skiing and snowboarding is still highly popular both in New South Wales and Victoria. If planning a ski-trip in Australia, follow the following safety points:
- Take out winter sports travel insurance if necessary
- Take the necessary precautions if skiing off-piste
- Wear adequate protective clothing
- Get chains for your car tires if driving in the snow
- Know your limits
Natural Hazards
Sun protection
Australia’s close proximity to the equator makes the sun extremely strong. Travelling tourists are often caught out by the sheer power of the sun to burn where in other countries it can be far more forgiving. Always make sure you wear a shirt, hat, sunglasses and SPF30+ sunscreen and avoid being in the sun in the middle of the day
Bushfires
Australia’s hot climate and arid landscape makes it prone to bushfires with the months of late spring to summer times to exercise the most precaution. Monitor the mainstream media for any news of bushfires before embarking on a journey and follow any recommendations of areas to avoid. Comply with fire bans when camping and always extinguish any fires you have with water completely
Floods cyclones
Australia is also susceptible to floods and cyclones, particularly in far north Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia over the summer months. As with bushfires, monitor any mainstream media for any reports of approaching floods/cyclones so that you can make necessary adjustments to your trip
Wildlife
Sharks and Crocodiles
The likelihood of experiencing a shark attack in Australia is extremely rare but it doesn’t hurt to exercise some degree of caution.
- Avoid swimming at river mouths or along drop-offs to deeper water
- Avoid swimming alone
- Avoid swimming a long way from sure
- Swim at patrolled beaches with shark netting
- Avoid swimming at dusk or evening
Crocodiles inhabit rivers and coastal estuaries in the north of Australia in Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland. It is important to follow all safety signs and avoid swimming in marked areas. It might be best to seek local advice about the area you plan to camp or fish in.
Snakes / Spiders
Australia has some of the most venomous snakes and spiders in the world. While deaths are rare it is still important to exercise the right degree of caution by wearing protective footwear and seeking immediate medical attention if bitten.
Personal Security
Australia is a relatively safe country with low crime rate and a stable political system but like anywhere use your common sense and observe the same precautions with your own safety and possessions.
Emergency telephone numbers
000 - Emergency fire, police and ambulance services in Australia (112 for mobile phones)
131 444 - Non-emergency policy attendance
Ready to purchase cover for your trip?
If you are ready to start comparing different domestic travel insurance options, you can enter your details in form above to start comparing quotes from Australian insurers. Once you have found a policy that looks right for you, follow the secure links through to the providers website to purchase your cover.
Receive quote for domestic travel insurance from Australian brands
*$14 price is based on a two day trip for 18 year old traveller. Date verified November, 2015. The offers compared on this page are chosen from a range of products finder.com.au has access to track details from and is not representative of all the products available in the market. Products are displayed in no particular order or ranking. The use of terms "Cheapest", 'Best' and 'Top' are not product ratings and are subject to our disclaimer. You should consider seeking independent financial advice and consider your personal financial circumstances when comparing products.
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We are about to go on a road trip in Australia with our own car.
It will involve about 7000 kilometres and take around 6 weeks. We have booked and paid for around $5000 for accommodation along the way. Would you recommend travel insurance and if so what should we ask for?
Hi Beis,
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. Domestic travel insurance can provide you with protection for your prepaid expenses. However, in most cases, your car will not be covered.
To compare domestic travel insurance policies, please enter your travel details into the comparison tool above.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
We are wanting insurance for travel within Australia using our own vehicle towing a caravan. We’ve booked many tours and caravan parks so were wanting cover for any unforeseen issues that may prevent us from going.
Hi Jacky,
Thanks for your question. If you enter your travel details into the comparison form at the top of the page, you will be able to see which policies offer cancellation cover and find the cover that is most suited to your budget. It’s important to remember that generally domestic travel insurance will only cover rental vehicles and not vehicles you own.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
how do i get a quote for domestic travel. i am traveling to cairns and return
Hi Michael,
Thanks for your question. All you need to do is enter destination (Australia), your travel dates and your age into the quote engine. Once you’ve done that, you will be able to compare the travel insurance brands in our panel.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
I’m going on a car trip and don’t have any roadside assist packages yet but am considering one. Can I get travel insurance that will cover additional costs such as car rental, should my car break down?
Hi Graham,
Thanks for your question. Generally, travel insurance will cover you for these costs if it’s a hire car, not your own car.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
Re Westpac Black card travel insurance,does this cover domestic travel, and for international car hire does it cover CDW car insurance
Tks Harley
Hi Harley,
Thanks for your question.
The Westpac Black card provides interstate protection for: interstate flight inconvenience as well as rental vehicle excess insurance.
For international car insurance, unfortunately the PDS doesn’t reference to anything related to CDW. If you’d like you view the PDS here or speak to Zurich directly about your options or eligibility.
Cheers,
Shirley
I am going on cruise around south australia so not covered under medicare while at sea, need appropriate travel insurance
Hi Jen,
Thanks for your question. Unfortunately, finder.com.au is a comparison service and not an insurer. However, if you would like to compare policies from the providers in our panel and receive a quote, please fill out the form at the top of the page with your travel details.
The region of travel may vary from insurer to insurer but generally you’ll need to select something like ‘Pacific’ in order to get appropriate cover for cruises around Australia.
I hope this was helpful,
Richard
Why am I unable to enter ages in the boxes provided. The boxes are only accepting single digits
Hi Gail,
Thanks for your question. Unfortunately, we have be unable to replicate this issue on our end. Are you still having issues putting in your D.O.B?
All the best,
Richard