Cockatoo guide

Travel insurance: what to check before buying

Travel insurance can address specified medical, cancellation, baggage and liability risks during an eligible journey. Benefits differ substantially, so compare the policy wording and emergency arrangements against the actual itinerary before buying.

Travel insurance can address specified medical, cancellation, baggage and liability risks during an eligible journey. Benefits differ substantially, so compare the policy wording and emergency arrangements against the actual itinerary before buying.

The distinction that matters

Domestic and international policies have different benefits. Overseas medical assistance, evacuation, transit countries, cruises, work and planned activities need explicit attention. Buying a policy after a known event may not insure that event.

What to check

  • Check destinations, travel dates and maximum trip duration.
  • Declare medical conditions and pending investigations as asked.
  • Confirm sports, cruises and work activities.
  • Review cancellation triggers, sublimits, excesses and assistance contacts.

Example to discuss

A traveller combining a cruise, a trek and an extended overseas stay checks each activity and the trip-duration limit instead of relying on a general worldwide label.

This is a hypothetical comparison, not a customer claim or a determination of cover.

Sources and further reading

General information only. The policy, schedule and applicable rules determine the actual position. For a personal decision, use an appropriately qualified adviser or the relevant provider.

Sources

References used in this guide