What is a travel insurance excess and how does it affect my claim?

Your excess is the amount you pay towards an approved claim. If your claim's value is less than this amount, your claim may be denied or withdrawn. Always check your policy's excess amount as it can significantly impact whether a small claim is worth pursuing.

What documentation do I need to make a successful travel insurance claim?

To support your claim, you generally need documents like police reports for theft, medical reports for illness or injury, original receipts for lost or damaged items, and booking confirmations for cancelled trips. Keep all relevant paperwork and digital copies handy when travelling.

Does travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?

Standard travel insurance policies generally exclude pre-existing medical conditions unless you declare them to your insurer during the application process. Your insurer may then offer cover, sometimes for an additional premium, or specifically exclude those conditions from your policy.

Will my travel insurance cover lost or stolen cash?

Most travel insurance policies offer limited cover for lost or stolen cash. This amount is often much lower than cover for other items. Always check your policy's specific limits for cash and currency before you travel.

What should I do if I have a medical emergency while travelling overseas?

In a medical emergency, you should contact your insurer's emergency assistance line immediately. They can help arrange appropriate medical care, advise on hospitals and confirm your cover. Keep their emergency contact details handy at all times.

Does travel insurance cover adventurous activities or sports?

Many adventurous activities such as skiing, scuba diving or trekking may not be covered by standard travel insurance policies. You often need to purchase additional cover or a specific 'adventure pack' to be protected for these activities.

Can I claim for a cancelled trip if I simply change my mind about travelling?

Travel insurance typically does not cover trip cancellations due to a change of mind. Cover is generally for unforeseen circumstances outside your control such as illness, injury or natural disasters. You'll need to prove the reason for cancellation in your claim, with evidence like a medical certificate, death certificate or police report.

What are common exclusions I should be aware of in my travel insurance policy?

Common exclusions include claims arising from reckless behaviour, being under the influence of alcohol or non-prescribed drugs, undeclared pre-existing medical conditions and certain high-risk activities. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement to understand what is not covered.

When should I notify my travel insurer about a potential claim?

You should notify your travel insurer as soon as reasonably possible after an event that could lead to a claim. Some policies have specific timeframes for reporting incidents or submitting claims, so check your policy details.

Does complimentary credit card travel insurance offer the same level of cover as a standalone policy?

Complimentary credit card travel insurance often has stricter eligibility criteria, lower coverage limits and more exclusions compared to a comprehensive standalone travel insurance policy. It is crucial to read the PDS for your credit card policy carefully to understand its terms.