Does a sole trader or freelancer need business travel insurance?

Yes, sole traders and freelancers can often benefit from business travel insurance. While personal travel insurance might cover some aspects of your trip, it may not adequately protect your business equipment professional liability or income if you cannot complete an assignment. Many insurers offer policies specifically designed for individual business owners or contractors.

What is generally not covered by business travel insurance?

Business travel insurance typically does not cover losses resulting from illegal acts, self-inflicted injury, drug or alcohol abuse, or undeclared pre-existing medical conditions. It also often excludes travel to certain countries or regions with specific government travel warnings. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to understand the specific exclusions that apply to your policy.

Does business travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?

Generally, business travel insurance does not automatically cover pre-existing medical conditions. You usually need to declare any existing medical conditions for all travellers at the time of purchasing the policy. The insurer will then assess these conditions and may offer cover with an additional premium or choose to exclude them from the policy. Failing to declare a pre-existing medical condition could result in a claim being denied.

What if my business trip extends into a personal holiday?

Many business travel insurance policies can be extended to cover a leisure component following the business portion of your trip. However, you typically need to declare this personal travel at the time of purchase or arrange an extension with your insurer before your personal holiday begins. The type of cover for the leisure portion may differ from your business cover so always confirm what is included.

How do I make a claim on business travel insurance?

To make a claim on your business travel insurance you should contact your insurer as soon as reasonably possible after an incident occurs. You will generally need to provide supporting documentation such as police reports, medical certificates, receipts for expenses, flight details and any other relevant evidence. Following the insurer's specific claims process is important for a smooth assessment.

Are employees covered if they travel to a high risk destination?

Cover for high risk destinations depends on your specific business travel insurance policy. Some policies have exclusions for travel to certain countries or regions that the Australian government has issued a 'Do Not Travel' warning for. It is crucial to check your policy's Product Disclosure Statement and advise your insurer of all planned travel destinations especially those considered high risk to ensure appropriate cover is in place.