Planning your next getaway? Whether it’s a long-awaited European river cruise, a family trip to Bali, or a motorhome adventure around New Zealand, there’s one travel companion you simply can’t afford to leave behind – travel insurance.
For Australians aged over 60, travel insurance isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a financial lifeline, a health safety net, and, perhaps most importantly, peace of mind in your back pocket.
Here’s why the experts – and those who’ve been caught out – say you should never board a plane, train or cruise ship without it.
1. Medical emergencies overseas can cost a fortune
If you suffer a medical emergency overseas, the bill can be eye-watering. A simple hospital stay in the US can cost more than $10,000 a day, while medical evacuation from Europe or Asia can run well over $200,000.
Australians often assume Medicare or their private health fund will help – they won’t. Once you’re outside Australia, you’re on your own financially.
Travel insurance can cover emergency hospitalisation, surgery, medications, and even medical evacuations back to Australia.
As Travel at 60’s insurance expert explains:
“We see cases every year where travellers face six-figure medical bills. Without insurance, many would have to sell assets or drain retirement savings just to get home.”
2. Cancellations and delays happen – even on dream holidays
Whether it’s a volcano erupting in Bali, a flight cancellation in America, or a family emergency that forces you to cancel your trip, things can change fast.
Most policies cover trip cancellation, delays, and rescheduling costs, including pre-paid flights, tours, and accommodation. Some even reimburse you for unused portions of your trip if you have to return home early.
The key, however, is to buy travel insurance as soon as you book. That way, you’re protected even before you leave home.
3. Lost luggage and stolen belongings are more common than you think
Imagine arriving in Rome but your suitcase ends up in Rio. Airlines mishandle millions of bags every year – and not every one finds its way home.
Travel insurance can cover lost, stolen, or delayed luggage as well as essential items you may need to replace while waiting for your belongings to catch up.
Tip: Keep your valuables – medication, electronics, jewellery, and travel documents – in your carry-on. Your insurer may require proof of ownership or police reports for stolen items, so keep digital copies of receipts where you can.
4. Cruise holidays come with extra risks
For many over-60s, a cruise is the ultimate holiday. But cruise-specific risks – such as onboard illness, trip interruptions, or missed port departures – mean you’ll need specialised cruise cover.
Some insurers treat cruises as international travel even if you never leave Australian waters, so check your policy. Without the right add-on, you could be left footing the bill for onboard medical care, which is not cheap.
A single doctor’s visit on a cruise ship can cost several hundred dollars, and evacuation by helicopter or speedboat can easily exceed $50,000.
5. Adventure and activity cover matters more than you think
You might not be planning to skydive over the Swiss Alps, but many seemingly low-risk activities – hiking, snorkelling, or hiring a scooter – can fall outside standard coverage.
If you’re the kind of traveller who likes to explore, choose a policy that includes adventure sports or mobility-related coverage.
Insurers now cater to active older travellers, offering plans that cover everything from e-biking through Tuscany to kayaking in New Zealand. Always read the fine print to ensure your activities are listed.
6. Travel insurance protects your investment – and your sanity
After years of saving and planning, the last thing you want is for your once-in-a-lifetime trip to vanish without refund.
With travel insurance, you’re not just protecting your health – you’re protecting the money and memories invested in the journey.
Whether your travel company collapses, your accommodation becomes unavailable, or a natural disaster derails your itinerary, comprehensive cover can help you recover costs or rebook without stress.
A Travel at 60 agent Kate says:
“I’ve seen clients lose everything after a tour company went under. Those with insurance were refunded in full – others were left with nothing.”
7. Peace of mind is priceless
Ultimately, travel insurance is about confidence. It allows you to focus on enjoying the experience – not worrying about what could go wrong.
Knowing you’re covered gives you the freedom to explore further, stay longer, and truly relax.
That’s particularly important for travellers in their 60s, 70s and beyond, many of whom may have pre-existing health conditions or require medications.
Most insurers now offer cover for a wide range of conditions, provided you declare them upfront. Yes, it can add to the cost, but it’s a small price to pay for knowing you’re protected.
How to choose the right policy
Declare all pre-existing conditions – honesty is vital. Undeclared conditions can void your policy.
Compare levels of cover – basic policies often exclude cancellation or luggage, while comprehensive ones include both.
Read the exclusions – adventure activities, alcohol-related incidents, or non-approved medications may not be covered.
Check destination-specific rules – some countries (like the US) are far more expensive for medical care.
Use reputable brands like Travel at 60.
Final word
You wouldn’t drive uninsured, and you shouldn’t travel uninsured either. The further you go – and the older you get – the more crucial that safety net becomes.
Travel insurance won’t stop things from going wrong, but it can make all the difference when they do.
So before you pack your bags, renew your passport, or confirm those long-awaited flights, do one last thing – get insured.
It’s the cheapest ticket to peace of mind you’ll ever buy.
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