does medibank travel insurance cover cruises

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The Guide to Cruise Travel Insurance

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Table of Contents

Look to your credit cards, first

What to consider if you buy a separate cruise travel insurance policy, what cruise travel insurance doesn't cover, how to shop cruise travel insurance options, is cruise travel insurance necessary.

Travel insurance can save you when you’re in a pinch, and cruises are especially important to protect. Whether you experience a flight delay, your car breaks down or you get sick, having a backup plan that will cover the cost of your trip, or at least help you get there without extra expense, can be essential. It’s recommended to arrive one day before the departure of your cruise to allow for any delays because if you arrive late to the departure point, the ship may have already left.

If you find yourself stranded at the pier long after your cruise has left, or aren't able to get to the pier at all, cruise travel insurance can help. These are some of the best travel insurance options for cruises.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Many credit cards provide sufficient travel protection that can help you in the event of a delay or cancellation. It can even help if you arrive on time, but your bags do not. Other travel protections include helping if you need medical attention or evacuation during your trip, as well as insurance for a rental car if you decide to drive in one of the ports you visit.

Some of the popular credit card options that provide ample protections include:

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card . Terms apply.

United℠ Explorer Card .

You'll need to review the policy before the trip to decide if you need to purchase additional coverage.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

If you don't have a credit card with coverage or you want to add more protection, it is wise to buy insurance as soon as possible after booking the cruise. Some companies require that you buy cruise insurance within two weeks of making the initial deposit, particularly if you're hoping for pre-existing medical coverage.

The longer you wait to buy cruise insurance, the higher the price may become.

Also, your own health insurance may not cover cruise travel or medical attention onboard a ship. Often, some personal insurance plans do not protect passengers once they have sailed more than six hours from any U.S. port. This may come as a surprise for those who thought they were protected, which is why it can be wise to purchase additional coverage for a cruise.

Since medical treatment on a ship may be more expensive, and evacuation at sea may require a helicopter or small boat, having emergency coverage can be essential.

If you’re still deciding on additional protection, consider these factors:

Destination: Is it remote or far from an airport or medical facility? How difficult will it be for you to find medical care or leave the ship?

Length of stay: How long will you be traveling? If it's only a few days, the probability that you will need coverage is less than if the trip were longer or farther from home.

Credit card protections: Read the fine print of your credit card benefits. If you used that card to pay for your travel, you may already have protection in the event of trip delay or cancellation, missing or lost luggage, medical reasons or weather issues.

Personal liability: Will you be engaging in activities that may make you responsible for someone else’s injury? Will you be renting a car or participating in activities like boating, biking or motorized water sports? If you may be held liable for someone else’s injury, insurance can help protect you.

As important as knowing how you will be protected, it is also paramount to know what is not included.

For example, if any injury or health issue is alcohol-related, it may not be covered. You might also want to know if natural disasters like a hurricane, terrorist incidents or bankruptcy by the cruise line are also covered. Sometimes, there are specific carve-outs for such situations.

Another important factor to consider is COVID-19 protection , as not all insurance plans include it. You will want to consider what happens if you get sick before the sailing or onboard since you may have to find accommodation if you are not able to travel for a period of time.

Some cruise insurance policies will cover itinerary changes. This means if you have your heart set on visiting a particular place, but it gets cut from the itinerary (a common occurrence due to weather conditions), you would receive some form of compensation. Not all plans include this, and for certain trips with a popular port (like visiting Alexandria, Egypt, to drive to the Pyramids), it may be wise to check if you are covered.

» Learn more: Should you insure your cruise?

There are many providers of travel insurance, and often, cruise companies will recommend a partner when making a reservation. Those are often best since the cruise line has a history of working with that company and has considered the intricacies of the various ports its ships are visiting. Still, policies vary.

If you want to buy a policy beyond what is already offered by your credit card, start with an aggregator site like Insure My Trip that compares several policies based on the criteria you choose. How long will you be gone? Where are you going? Do you have any pre-existing conditions? All of these things can affect the price of a policy that you purchase.

There are other respected insurance options like Travel Guard , which has policies specifically geared toward cruise trips. SafeCruise from VisitorsCoverage is another plan that is designed for cruise travel, and it includes an upgrade for a partial Cancel For Any Reason reimbursement.

Deciding if you want to protect your trip probably depends on your budget. If you can afford a worst-case scenario without protection, then maybe you won’t need to purchase travel insurance for cruises.

But for most travelers, having a backup plan in case anything goes wrong makes the trip that much more enjoyable.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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Medibank Travel Insurance

Our verdict: unlimited trip cancellation and overseas medical expenses, generous policy limits and a discount for private health members make medibank travel insurance a solid option for travellers..

In this guide

Compare travel insurance policies from Medibank

Get your medibank travel insurance discount, summary of medibank's international comprehensive policy, how does medibank travel insurance cover covid-19, what policies does medibank offer, here's a breakdown of medibank travel insurance features, standard features, optional add-ons, how to make a medibank travel insurance claim, here's the bottom line about medibank travel insurance, frequently asked questions.

Destinations

• Medibank travel insurance offers a strong rate of up to $5,000,000 for personal liability cover.
• This insurer is one of just a few brands offering cover for the pandemic. This includes trip cancellation due to a COVID-19 diagnosis and overseas medical costs.
• There is limited cover for pregnancy. You are only covered for serious complications up to your 26th week, and you'll have to complete a health assessment to ensure you're fully covered.

We update our data regularly, but information can change between updates. Confirm details with the provider you're interested in before making a decision.

Learn how we maintain accuracy on our site.

15% off travel insurance for Medibank Private members

Get this discount if you're a Medibank Private member and save.

Table updated March 2024

Best Travel Insurance - Value finalist

Medibank Travel Insurance ranked in third-place for value out of the 28 international policies we analysed. It scored highly because it was the second cheapest policy on average and covers most of the benefits people look for in a policy, such as COVID cover and luggage delay.

Medibank joins the ranks of a growing list of insurers that offer some cover for COVID-19. The key benefits covered are:

• Overseas medical costs if you are diagnosed while on your trip
• Pre-trip and on-trip cancellation costs if you or your travelling companion are diagnosed
• Cover for additional expenses incurred, including quarantine and isolation costs

Some exclusions do apply, however, including costs related to a government-directed border closure or travelling to a destination subject to a "Do not travel" warning.

If you're at all worried about unexpected pandemic expenses, we've compared all the providers that offer cover for COVID-19 .

Medibank has 3 different plans available: Domestic, International Medical Only and International Comprehensive. If you're planning more than 1 trip for the year, a Medibank Annual Multi-Trip policy is also an option. Here are some of the main insured events a policy can cover you for:

International Medical Only

International Comprehensive

Annual Multi-Trip

The insurer of this product is Zurich Australian Insurance Limited. It comes with a cooling-off period and choice of standard excess.

The cooling-off period is 21 days which means you can change your policy or cancel within this period and Medibank will refund your premium in full. The excess is the amount you need to pay when you make a claim, and you can lower the cost of your policy by selecting a higher excess.

These are some of the features that Medibank will cover you for if something does go wrong on your trip. Some of these inclusions are only available for certain levels of cover (e.g. the comprehensive policy versus medical-only).

• Accidental death
• Additional expenses including accommodation or travel expenses
• Cancellation and amendment fees
• Delayed luggage allowance
• Loss of income
• Luggage and personal effects
• Missed connections
• Overseas medical and hospital expenses
• Permanent disability
• Rental car insurance excess

For more flexibility, Medibank offers extra cover for your specific needs. You can add these options when you're applying based on what you have planned for your trip.

• Cruise cover. If you've got a multi-night cruise planned, you'll be covered for a variety of additional costs such as cancellations, on-board medical expenses and missed shore excursions.
• Extra luggage limits. If you're travelling with expensive things such as a camera, laptop or jewellery, make sure that the included value is enough by checking the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). If not, you can always add more.
• Winter sports. This cover is for those who are skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling on their trip. Protect yourself, so the expenses don't snowball if you get into an accident.
• Motorcycle/moped riding. This cover is for when you're a rider or plan to be a pillion passenger on a motorcycle/moped while you're travelling. This will cover your medical expenses if you get into an accident, but only if you or the driver hold a valid licence, you're wearing a helmet and the engine capacity is 250cc or less.

Like any insurer, there are a few events that aren't covered under a travel insurance policy. With Medibank, some of these include:

• Any act of war, rebellion or invasion
• A pre-existing medical condition not approved by Medibank
• Participating in hunting, running with the bulls or freestyle BMX riding
• Pregnancy complications after the 26th week
• Self-inflicted injury, suicide or attempted suicide
• Substance abuse or ingestion of any non-prescription drug
• Travel booked or undertaken against the advice of a medical adviser
• Insolvency of a travel agent , tour operator or accommodation provider

Make sure you review Medibank's PDS for a detailed breakdown of what is and isn't covered, found under its list of general exclusions .

You can submit your claim by downloading a claim form online and posting it to the Medibank Travel Insurance Team at c/o Travel Insurance Partners Claims Dept, PO Box 168, North Sydney NSW 2060 Australia.

Alternatively, you can submit a claim online by following these steps:

• Head to https://claims.travelinsurancepartners.com.au/Medibank
• Enter your full name and policy number to log in
• Complete your claim details by answering all sections
• Upload any documents to support your claim
• Submit, and you should hear back within 10 business days

Medibank has an easy-to-understand policy offering that makes it clear what you are and are not covered for. Its inclusions are generous and include some hard-to-find extras like COVID cover while cruising, many pre-existing conditions and a stack of standard adventure activities. Add on a 15% discount for private health members and you have a very competitive option.

Where Medibank falls short is with the limited cover for pregnant travellers and those with certain pre-existing conditions. If you suffer from cardiovascular disease , chronic lung conditions or reduced immunity, for example, you'll need to complete an online health assessment to determine if any special conditions, limits or excesses apply to your cover.

If you're still not sure about Medibank, you can compare other travel insurance companies here .

Is Medibank Travel Insurance legit?

Yes, Medibank Travel Insurance is insured by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited, part of the Zurich Insurance Group with insurance products and services in more than 210 countries and territories. It also offers a 21-day cooling-off period if you decide you're not happy with the policy.

Should I get a policy with Medibank for a trip to Bali?

Travel to Indonesia comes with its own unique risks and Medibank travel insurance ticks a lot of boxes when it comes to cover. White water rafting, bungee jumping and scuba diving are all covered as standard (provided you meet the minimum requirements), and natural disasters such as volcanic eruptions have been covered in the past .

What documents do I need when I make a claim?

Medibank Travel Insurance will advise what type of documents you'll need to provide at the time of your claim. Supporting documents can include:

• Police reports
• Medical reports
• Original receipts or proof of purchase and ownership

Cristal Dyer

Cristal Dyer is a travel writer at Finder. She has been writing about travel for over five years and has visited over 40 countries around the world. Cristal currently travels full-time, writing about her favourite cities and food finds, and she is always on the lookout for amazing flight deals to share.

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18 Responses

Does anyone provide cruise insurance for people over 80 who are well and fit.

Thanks for getting in touch. There are a few providers that may cover you. Head to this page to find them https://www.finder.com.au/travel-insurance-for-over-80

Hope that helps.

Thanks, Gary

I am 80 years old. I am seeking travel insurance to travel to France for 41 days, commencing August 7th. I only require medical cover.

You may want to check our travel insurance guide for people who are 80 years old and above. You’ll find a list of insurers who can provide the medical cover you’re seeking.

I hope this helps.

Regards, James

I’m looking for a 6-week one trip only in 2022 to the UK. I am 82 years old. Please advise on cost or for the whole year and for some domestic travel. Thank you!

Thanks for reaching out. I believe you’re trying to get a quote with Medibank Travel Insurance, is that correct?

If so, you can source quotes on your insurance policy by getting in touch with Medibank directly. You can visit their website for more details.

If you’d like to explore other options, please feel free to fill out the quote form found on top of this page.

If cost is an important factor to you, you could take a look at some deals available on Finder on our page about Medibank travel insurance promo codes . Some of these may include cover for international trips.

Prior to choosing your cover, be sure to read each policy’s Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) with care so that you’re fully aware of your policy details, including any restrictions and exclusions.

You can also read our domestic travel cover guide to learn more.

I had a stent put in the heart. Am I eligible for travel insurance?

Thank you for reaching out to Finder.

Medibank does not list heart conditions as part of its insurance coverage. You may want to check our list of travel insurance for heart conditions to compare insurers who have coverage on heart conditions, including those who have stents.

Please make sure to read through the insurance policies prior to application to guarantee that your condition is covered.

Hope this helps! 😊

Kind Regards, Mai

We are travelling to Hawaii next March. We are there for 4 weeks, in the middle of that we are on a cruise. Can we get one cover to cover land and cruise?

Thank you for leaving a question. All of Medibank’s international policies have cruise cover. Products may vary depend on product details stated on site. Medibank Travel Insurance covers four regions:

Worldwide (USA, Canada, Hawaii, South America, Africa & others) Europe, Asia, Middle East (Europe, Ireland, Asia, Middle East) UK and South East Asia Indonesia, New Zealand, South West Pacific and domestic cruises

You may want to click on Get Quote or more info for the detailed coverage of the plan.

Hope this helps

Cheers, Val

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Smooth Sailing Ahead: Your Guide to Cruise Travel Insurance [2023]

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Best Cruise Travel Insurance for Seniors: Seven Corners

Best cruise travel insurance with covid-19 coverage: battleface, best cruise travel insurance for young travelers: aegis, best cruise travel insurance for adventure tours: img, best cruise travel insurance, cancel for any reason coverage: john hancock insurance agency, what is cruise insurance, is cruise insurance worth it, cruise insurance costs, types of cruise insurance, what to look for in a cruise travel insurance policy, how to get cruise insurance, final thoughts.

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Taking a cruise is one of the easiest ways to travel, but cruising isn’t immune to unexpected hiccups. Sudden illness, travel delays, or other unforeseen events could cancel or interrupt your cruising plans — you might even need medical coverage. 

With cruise insurance, you’re covered for unexpected issues that can interfere with your travel plans . Read on to learn what cruise insurance is, how to get it, and how to find the best cruise insurance policies, whether you’re buying directly from the cruise line or a third-party insurance company.

The 5 Best Cruise Travel Insurance Policies

The right cruise insurance policy offers the coverage you need at a good price, but policies aren’t one-size-fits-all. We’ve run quotes for various coverage scenarios — from seniors to adventure tours — to find the best cruise insurance policies . 

Consider these travel insurance policies for your next cruise:

Seniors cruising the world can get comprehensive coverage from Seven Corners Travel Insurance . We were quoted $89 for a 70-year-old cruising Mexico . The Seven Corners Trip Protection Basic policy offers trip cancellation and interruption, medical coverage, and medical evacuation, along with COVID-19 cancellation and medical coverage.

Comprehensive travel insurance, regardless of your age, is widely available and relatively affordable. Check out our complete guide to travel insurance for seniors .

If you’re concerned about COVID-19 derailing your cruise travel plans, getting cruise travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is essential. The battleface Discovery Plan covers COVID-19 cancellation and medical expenses, along with regular trip cancellation, medical evacuation, and medical emergency coverage. We were quoted $36.54 for a 35-year-old cruising Italy on this plan.

Young travelers often have the lowest-priced travel insurance policies. We got a quote for just $30.27 from Aegis for a 22-year-old cruising the Bahamas . The Aegis Go Ready Choice policy covers COVID-19 medical and cancellation, trip cancellation and interruption, medical evacuation, and medical expenses.

Are you planning adventurous excursions on your cruise? IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite , with options for winter, adventure, and extreme sports, can give you the coverage you need. We were quoted $58.87 for a 40-year-old traveler cruising to Costa Rica with plans to zipline . It covers trip cancellation and interruption, medical expenses, medical evacuation, and adventure sports with some exclusions, such as diving and adventure races.

Your travel insurance might not cover everything you want to do — particularly if you plan on adventure activities. Here’s our complete guide to adventure and extreme sports travel insurance .

If you’re especially concerned you may need to cancel your cruise, Cancel for Any Reason coverage allows you to cancel your trip and receive partial reimbursement for nonrefundable trip expenses, even if you cancel for reasons not normally covered by trip cancellation coverage. We were quoted $100.50 for a 55-year-old cruising Alaska for John Hancock Insurance Agency’s Silver plan , which reimburses up to 75% of your trip cost under Cancel for Any Reason coverage. It also offers coverage for COVID-19 medical and cancellation, trip cancellation and interruption, and medical expenses and evacuation with primary coverage.

Cruise insurance is travel insurance that covers cruises . It can help you manage all the what-ifs on your cruise. What if you need to cancel your booking? What if your flight is late? What if you get sick or hurt? Travel insurance for cruises can cover you for all of these things. 

Many travel insurance policies cover cruises, but cruise insurance may be tailored to the risks of cruises, covering transportation, accommodations, and activities. Getting travel insurance for cruises can offer peace of mind if you’re concerned about losing nonrefundable trip payments, travel delays, or covering emergency medical care.

Cruise bookings can be unforgiving, and cruise insurance can help you minimize your risk of losing the money you’ve paid for your trip. Travel insurance coverage is often a good idea if you’re concerned about losing nonrefundable prepaid travel expenses or covering emergency medical expenses . 

Because cruises are often less flexible than other types of travel, it’s generally a good idea to get cruise travel insurance. For example, you might be able to rebook a flight or hotel room, but if you cancel your cruise, you could lose your deposit or more. Often, cruise lines won’t offer any refunds if you cancel within a certain period before your cruise, such as 14 or 30 days .

Additionally, you shouldn’t expect your U.S.-based health insurance plan to cover you on your cruise, especially if you’re on an international cruise. And it’s exceptionally expensive if you need to be evacuated for a medical condition.

While everyone hopes for smooth sailing, the reality is a lot of unexpected issues could pop up on your cruise. Your flight to the cruise port could be delayed, you might get sick or injured on your cruise, or you might have to cancel the whole thing if illness or obligations prevent you from going on your cruise. A hurricane could interfere with cruising in storm hotspots such as the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. 

Cruise insurance can offer financial support for many unexpected problems you might experience with a cruise. And with a 24-hour travel assistance hotline , you can get knowledgeable help whether you need to find a local pharmacy or coordinate the replacement of lost travel documents such as your passport.

That said, you might have travel insurance coverage available with a credit card . Some credit cards offer travel insurance benefits such as trip cancellation and interruption, emergency medical treatment and evacuation, and travel delay coverage. Still, you should check the details of your credit card’s coverage to ensure it’s enough for your needs. 

Looking for a credit card with travel protections? Read our guide to the best credit cards for travel insurance coverage and protection.

Generally, expect cruise insurance to cost between 5% to 10% of the total cost of your cruise . For a $3,000 cruise, you’ll typically pay between $150 to $300 for comprehensive travel insurance coverage. But keep in mind several factors influence the cost of cruise insurance, including:

• Add-ons, such as CFAR 
• Coverage options 
• Cruise cost 
• Deductibles and limits 
• Destination 
• Group policies 
• Traveler age 
• Trip duration

Learn more about travel insurance costs in our guide to the average cost of travel insurance .

What Cruise Insurance Covers

Each travel insurance policy is unique, but travel insurance for cruise coverage typically includes:

• 24/7 Assistance: You can get 24/7 support for itinerary changes, rebooking, medical emergencies, and more.
• Baggage Protection: Your luggage is covered for loss, theft, or damage on your flight or during your cruise.
• Cabin Confinement: You may get reimbursement if you have to stay in your cabin during your cruise, such as a required quarantine due to COVID-19.
• Cancel for Any Reason: Usually available as an add-on, CFAR travel insurance allows you to cancel your cruise for any reason and receive a partial reimbursement of your nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Itinerary Changes: You can get covered for changes in your cruise’s itinerary, missed port calls, or extended delays beyond your control.
• Missed Connections: If you miss your cruise departure due to a flight delay or other covered reason, you can get reimbursed for your nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Medical Emergencies: Cruise insurance can cover medical treatment on the cruise and may offer coverage for medical evacuation.
• Trip Cancellation or Interruption: You can get reimbursed for your nonrefundable travel expenses if you cancel your cruise or end your trip early due to covered reasons such as illness or injury. You’re typically covered if the cruise line cancels due to mechanical issues, weather, or other unforeseen events.

Cruise-specific travel insurance may also offer reimbursement if your cruise ship is disabled. And if you want to cover shore excursions, be sure to include the cost of excursions in your total travel cost when you get quotes for cruise insurance.

While these coverage types are common among cruise insurance policies, checking the terms and conditions to confirm all coverage areas is a good idea.

There are many options for travel insurance, and you can generally choose as little or as much coverage as you’d like. You can opt for a comprehensive travel insurance policy, which may offer Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, or you might prefer to limit your costs and choose just the coverage you need. For example, you might choose standalone trip cancellation insurance or a travel medical insurance policy but decide you don’t need coverage for missed connections or baggage.

Consider these factors as you compare the best cruise travel insurance policies:

• Cancellation Window: Understand how many days before your cruise departure you must cancel to qualify for reimbursement.
• Coverage Availability: Travel insurance policies typically offer cruise coverage, but it’s best to confirm that a policy specifically covers cruises before you purchase it. Also, consider availability for coverages that may be important to you, such as CFAR or adventure sports. 
• Customer Reviews and Reputation: You can get insight into the insurance provider and how claims and customer service work by reading customer reviews and ratings.
• Eligibility Criteria: Cruise insurance policies may have eligibility criteria such as limits on age or trip duration and preexisting conditions. For example, some travel insurance policies max out at 90 days.
• Exclusions and Limitations: Read the policy to understand what’s excluded or limited specifically to cruise-related coverage, such as reimbursements for port closures, itinerary changes, or medical incidents on the cruise.
• Policy Cost: Get multiple quotes and compare each cost and coverage value to ensure you get a good value for your cruise insurance policy.
• Purchase Timeline: You’ll usually need to purchase your cruise insurance within a certain period of booking your trip, so be sure you’re buying your policy within that timeframe.
• Reimbursement Structure: Review the cruise insurance policy to confirm how much you can be reimbursed for under qualifying circumstances, such as if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip.

You can buy cruise insurance from the cruise line when you book, or a travel agent may offer cruise insurance plans. You also have the option to purchase cruise trip insurance independently. It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes to compare your costs and coverage and get the best deal on cruise insurance.

You should buy cruise insurance when you make your first deposit so you’re immediately covered for trip cancellation. Here are some of the options and coverages if you purchase cruise insurance directly from the cruise line:

Before you purchase cruise insurance from a cruise line, compare your third-party options. You can get quotes from multiple travel insurance companies at once using a travel insurance aggregator such as Squaremouth .

Even a meticulously planned cruise can run into unforeseen disruptions — and cruise insurance can come in handy for the unexpected.

Cruise insurance covers you for sudden illnesses, travel delays, and more, offering financial protection so you’re safeguarded against uncertainties. Whether you get cruise insurance from the cruise line or third–party insurance providers, understand your coverage and how it protects your investment in cruise travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my health insurance cover me on a cruise.

Some health insurance policies offer limited coverage on cruises, but coverage often depends on where you’re cruising and your planned activities. Check with your insurance provider about coverage before you depart on your cruise. Find out if supplemental cruise insurance is available if you want to use your existing health insurance coverage.

Are cruises covered under travel insurance?

Cruises are typically covered under travel insurance , so you don’t necessarily have to buy specialized cruise insurance, such as coverage from the cruise line. Travel insurance can cover trip cancellations and interruptions, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more on your cruise trip.

Can you buy cruise insurance after booking?

You can buy cruise insurance after booking. It’s generally best to purchase cruise insurance as soon as possible after making your initial trip deposit — when you have money on the line. The sooner you purchase cruise insurance, the sooner you’re covered for trip cancellations.

Can you buy medical insurance for a cruise?

You can buy medical travel insurance to cover your medical expenses on a cruise, offering coverage such as medical emergencies, illnesses, and injuries.

How do I add travel insurance to my cruise?

You can add travel insurance to your cruise when you book with the cruise line or a travel agent. Alternatively, you can purchase travel insurance directly from travel insurance agencies.

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About Jessica Merritt

A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.

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What Does Travel Insurance Cover for a Cruise? Six Key Benefits

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Medibank Travel Insurance

Important information on terms, conditions and sub-limits.

Is Medibank on your shortlist for travel insurance providers? We’ve combed the fine print to answer your questions about Medibank's travel insurance policies so you can find the right policy for your needs.

About Medibank

Medibank is an Australian private health insurance company founded in 1974. They provide health services like pet insurance, life insurance, medical screenings, and injury management, among many other areas in the healthcare and insurance realm, such as travel insurance. Medibank is underwritten by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited.

Medibank travel insurance policies

Medibank offers single or multi-trip domestic travel insurance and international travel insurance . They also offer a medical-only policy for international single-trip travellers.

• Single Duo Family Group

Limits shown apply

Covid medical cover

Covid cancellation cover

Overseas emergency hospital expense

Overseas emergency medical assistance

Maximum excess

Cancellation fees

Pay extra for no excess

Luggage and personal effects

Additional accomodation & travel

Emergency companion

Resumption of journey

Hospital cash allowance

Accidental death

Permanent disability

Loss of income

Credit Card fraud and replacement

Travellers cheques

Travel documents

Rental vehicle excess

Alternative travel expenses

Personal liability

Pre existing conditions

Cardiovascular disease

Mental health illness

High cholesterol

High blood pressure

Blood thinning medication

Activities covered

Bungee jumping

Conservation work

Mountain biking

Mountaineering

Rock climbing

Scuba diving

Snow sports

Ocean Cruise

International Medical Only

Assessment required, may cost extra

Comprehensive

Annual multi-trip.

Any information provided on this page should be considered a summary and general advice only. All information should be verified before purchase via the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).

Does Medibank travel insurance have COVID-19 coverage?

Medibank does provide some cover for COVID-19, however, it may be subject to certain conditions. Make sure you read through the PDS to choose the right coverage for your needs. 

What other optional extras can I add to my Medibank policy?

Extra luggage and personal effects cover

If you wish to increase the cover limit for specific personal items, like a camera or jewellery, you can pay an extra premium. 

Cruise cover

If you’re travelling for 2 or more nights on a cruise ship, then you’ll need to purchase cruise travel insurance on top of your policy. If you do not get this optional extra, then any claims related to any part of your journey on a cruise ship will not be covered. 

Snow sports 

Snow travel insurance is important if you’re hitting the slopes, and without it, you may not be covered for any claims relating to snow sports. 

Motorcycle/Moped riding

If you’re planning on riding a motorcycle or moped, as a driver or passenger, then you will need to add this optional extra to your policy. 

Medibank will, however, exclude motorcycle and moped riding from the personal liability benefit, so if you’re responsible for damage to the vehicle or the injuries of another person, you may be liable for costs. 

Are pre-existing medical conditions covered under Medibank’s travel insurance?

Medibank automatically includes cover for many pre-existing medical conditions , although some have criteria that must be met in order to receive the policy benefits. You must notify them of any pre-existing conditions that you have in order to receive cover for them. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it’s always good to read the PDS to see if you’ll be covered in case your condition causes you trouble on your travels. 

You will need to declare your pre-existing condition and complete a health assessment by visiting a Medibank store, using their website ( www.medibank.com.au/travel ), or calling them on 132 331. 

What do I do if there’s an emergency during my trip?

If there’s an emergency, contact Medibank’s 24-hour emergency assistance and claims line on: 

NZ: 0800 284 346

UK: 0800 096 8821

USA: 1 855 802 3392 

Canada: 1 855 802 3392

Other countries: +61 2 8907 5672

Fax: +61 2 9954 6250

Medibank has a team of doctors, nurses, case managers, and travel agents who can help in an emergency. Examples of emergency situations may include:

Help to find a medical facility 

Paying hospital bills

Getting you home safely 

Lost passports or travel documents 

Help change your travel plans  

How do I make a claim with Medibank travel insurance?

To make a claim, head online to Medibank’s website and follow the prompts, or download a claim form from their site. You will need to have supporting documents which are relevant to your claim, like receipts, police reports, or hospital invoices. You can either scan these for online upload, or post them to Medibank in the mail.

Medibank’s postal address is:

Medibank Travel Insurance Team 

c/o Travel Insurance Partners Claims Dept 

PO Box 168 

North Sydney NSW 2060

Medibank will aim to notify you of the success of your claim within 10 working days. 

Is it possible to cancel my Medibank travel insurance policy?

You can cancel your policy and receive a full refund within 21 days of purchasing it, provided that you have not started your journey or intend to make a claim.

How does the Mozo Community rate Medibank?

Read how the Mozo community has rated Medibank travel insurance policies and services on a number of factors ranging from value for money to customer satisfaction.

Medibank travel insurance

Overall 8.4

Value for money

Policy coverage

Customer service

Claims handling

Recent Medibank travel insurance customer reviews Recent Medibank travel insurance customer reviews

Medibank Travel Insurance review

Overall rating   8 / 10

Medibank Travel Insurance: Reliable Coverage

I recently used Medibank travel insurance for a trip overseas and I have to say, I was impressed. Here's why: Pros: Firstly, Medibank travel insurance offers comprehensive coverage at competitive prices. Their website is easy to navigate and...

Full review

I recently used Medibank travel insurance for a trip overseas and I have to say, I was impressed. Here's why: Pros: Firstly, Medibank travel insurance offers comprehensive coverage at competitive prices. Their website is easy to navigate and it was quick and easy to get a quote for my trip. The policy covered everything I needed, from medical expenses to flight cancellations. Secondly, I was impressed with their customer service. When I had to make a claim, the process was straightforward and the staff were helpful and friendly. They kept me updated throughout the process and I felt like they really cared about helping me out. Finally, I appreciated the added benefits that came with my policy, such as access to a 24/7 helpline and emergency assistance when I needed it. This gave me peace of mind and allowed me to enjoy my trip without worrying about what might happen if something went wrong. Cons: The only downside I experienced with Medibank travel insurance was that the policy wasn't as customizable as some other providers. However, for me personally, this wasn't a major issue as the coverage provided was comprehensive enough to meet my needs. Overall, I would highly recommend Medibank travel insurance to anyone looking for a reliable and comprehensive travel insurance provider. Their prices are competitive, their customer service is excellent, and the added benefits provided make for a worry-free travel experience.

Value for money   9 / 10

Policy coverage   9 / 10

Customer service   9 / 10

Claims handling   9 / 10

Trust   9 / 10

Emma, Western Australia, reviewed 11 months ago

Overall rating   9 / 10

Fantastic, they helped me in my time of need.

A few years ago I had a nasty snowboarding accident in the USA that left me requiring extensive shoulder surgery. My biggest stress was the insurance coverage (not so much the injury). I was incredibly surprised when i contacted Medibank to begin...

A few years ago I had a nasty snowboarding accident in the USA that left me requiring extensive shoulder surgery. My biggest stress was the insurance coverage (not so much the injury). I was incredibly surprised when i contacted Medibank to begin the claims process and was met with excellent service, empathy and a hassel free process to get me fixed up and back home.

Value for money   10 / 10

Policy coverage   10 / 10

Customer service   10 / 10

Claims handling   10 / 10

Trust   10 / 10

Samuel, Victoria, reviewed over 1 year ago

Overall rating   10 / 10

It is one of the best.

Medibank is great.

Solomoni, Queensland, reviewed almost 3 years ago

Overall rating   3 / 10

Shop around for a better deal and actual coverage.

We couldn’t claim on a refund of flights for a family wedding during the pandemic where other insurers that family booked through did. What’s the point of having travel insurance with this mob?

Value for money   3 / 10

Policy coverage   3 / 10

Customer service   2 / 10

Claims handling   4 / 10

Trust   1 / 10

Ashleigh, Western Australia, reviewed almost 3 years ago

Trustworthy and would recommend

Was easy to book/purchase. Has discounts every now and then. Feel safe and trust the company.

Bronte, New South Wales, reviewed over 3 years ago

Compare Medibank travel insurance with other travel insurance providers

With so many travel insurance options on the market, it’s a big job to sit down and compare them all. But Mozo believe it is well worth the time and effort if it gets you a more competitive deal that not only saves you money, but ensures your peace of mind while you’re away on your next beachside retreat or worldwide adventure. So we’ve developed our easy and free to use travel insurance comparison tool , which will let you compare heaps of travel insurance policies and choose the one that's right for you.  

You can also check out our guides on subjects like snow travel insurance , backpackers travel insurance or insurance for your next cruise . And while you’re at it, check out our travel hub , for all the latest news, tips and tricks about getting the most bang for your holiday buck.

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Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply to any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. These terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits could affect the level of benefits and cover available under any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. Please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and the Target Market Determination on the provider's website for further information before making any decisions about an insurance product.

Who we are and how we get paid

Our goal at Mozo is to help you make smart financial decisions and our award-winning comparison tools and services are provided free of charge. As a marketplace business, we do earn money from advertising.

We do not compare all brands in the market, or all products offered by all brands. At times certain brands or products may not be available or offered to you. If you proceed with a travel insurance policy through Mozo, Mozo may receive a referral fee.

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• Best Travel Insurance For Cruises

The journalists on the editorial team at Forbes Advisor Australia base their research and opinions on objective, independent information-gathering.

When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Our Pick Of The Best Cruise Travel Insurance

Published: Oct 24, 2023, 2:57pm

Cruising was put on pause during Covid, but like most post-pandemic travel, it has since become a popular option for thousands of Australian holiday-makers.

According to Statista, revenue in the Australian cruising market is expected to grow by 9.48% per year, resulting in an expected market value of $US1.25 billion by 2027.

Of course, when cruising in domestic or international waters, travel insurance is vital. What many travellers may not realise, however, is the need for a specific type of insurance to cover the risk factors and events specific to cruising—whether it’s missed ports cover, emergency evacuation or even formal wear cover for missed black-tie events.

That’s why for Australians looking to set sail, we have taken a look at the wider cruise insurance market and picked out our favourite providers of cruise travel insurance.

Note: The below list represents a selection of our top category picks, as chosen by Forbes Advisor Australia’s editors and journalists. The information provided is purely factual and is not intended to imply any recommendation, opinion, or advice about a financial product. Not every product or provider in the marketplace has been reviewed, and the list below is not intended to be exhaustive nor replace your own research or independent financial advice. For more information on how Forbes Advisor ranks and reviews products, including how we identified our top category picks, read the methodology selection below.

Featured Partners

InsureandGo

Budget direct, southern cross, our methodology, do you need special travel insurance for a cruise, what does cruise insurance cover, covid cover on a cruise, frequently asked questions (faqs).

• Best Comprehensive Travel Insurance
• Best Seniors Travel Insurance
• Best Domestic Travel Insurance
• Travel Insurance Cost
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• Travel Insurance For Fiji
• Travel Insurance For The USA
• Domestic Travel Insurance
• Pregnancy Travel Insurance Guide
• Travel Insurance And Covid: Are You Covered?

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Cabin Confinement Cover

Covered for covid, missed ports cover.

InsureandGo offers a specific cruise insurance policy to its customers which is available to those aged up to 79 years old on the bare essentials cruise policy and 100 years old for the more comprehensive cover. There is unlimited medical cover on-board (including for diagnoses and treatment related to Covid), and a $5,000 cancellation cover if travellers need to cancel due to contracting the virus. Furthermore, cabin confinement is covered up to a total of $2,500 with $75 towards every completed 24-hour period.

Missed ports cover is also included with $100 for each port up to a total of $1,000, which is paid if your cruise docks at fewer ports than what is scheduled on your original cruise itinerary. There is also compensation for cruise delays, and InsureandGo regularly runs online discounts for consumers to find the best deal.

• Cabin confinement covered up to $2,500
• Unlimited medical including Covid
• Regular online discounts
• No specific cover for formal wear
• No live chat functionality
• Only covered up to 79 on bare essentials cruise policy

To be insured for a cruise via 1Cover, you will need to purchase a cruise pack on top of an existing policy. If you’re cruising in Australia, you’ll need to purchase a domestic policy and if you’re cruising in Australia as well as international waters, you’ll need to purchase a comprehensive policy. You will then need to add a cruise pack to each of these.

While all ages are covered with 1Cover, there is a $3,000 excess for travellers over 80 years old and a maximum coverage length of six months. There is unlimited medical and dental cover while onboard, and cover related to Covid-19 diagnosis, pending certain conditions.

• Missed ports cover
• Covid included in unlimited medical cover
• Positive customer reviews
• No online discounts
• $3000 excess for travellers over 80 years old
• No livechat functionality

Allianz offers its cruise insurance via a cruise pack on both domestic and international policies. All ages are covered, medical cover while cruising is unlimited (including for Covid), and cancellation due to Covid is also recognised. Allianz also covers cabin confinement up to $500 if you are confined for more than a 48-hour period.

Unfortunately, Allianz does not offer any compensation for missed ports, however, there is cover for missed shore excursions. This means if you pre-paid for an excursion on-shore and then are unable to go for either medical reasons or reasons outside of your control (such as not docking at the port), you will be reimbursed up to $1,000.

• Covid is covered under medical expenses
• Cover for missed onshore activities cover
• No missed ports cover
• Must be purchased as an add-on to existing policy

With Budget Direct, you can only take out a cruise insurance policy if you first purchase an international travel insurance policy and then add on the cruise pack. The cruise pack covers all ages, nearly 30 pre-existing medical conditions, and unlimited medical treatment. It also includes dental treatment onboard up to $2,000 and cabin confinement up to $1,500.

Budget Direct also offers compensation for missed ports cover if you cannot dock due to unforeseen circumstances, as well as missed shore excursions for any tours or activities that were pre-paid. At the time of writing, Budget Direct is offering a 15% online discount.

• Unlimited medical cover
• Some poor customer reviews
• No specific formal wear cover

If you purchase a domestic or international travel insurance policy with Bupa, you will have the option to purchase an additional cruise pack, which is available to all ages. It offers unlimited medical cover, including overseas medical and hospital expenses in the event that you are diagnosed with Covid; cancellation cover for Covid; and $500 for cabin confinement in the event that you are confined for more than a 48-hour period.

Unfortunately, there is no missed ports cover with the Bupa cruise pack. However, there is a marine rescue diversion cover which is paid out if your cruise must divert in order to complete a marine rescue. Additionally, there is cover up to $1,000 if you miss a pre-paid on-shore excursion due to unforeseen circumstances.

• Cancellation cover for Covid
• All ages are covered
• Must purchase cruise pack as an add-on
• Cabin confinement capped at $500

While Medibank allows all ages to purchase its cruise pack (when purchased in addition to an international travel insurance policy) it has reduced coverage for those aged over 70. For those under 70, there are 34 pre-existing conditions automatically covered, unlimited onboard dental and medical (including Covid), medical evacuation for Covid and cabin confinement up to a total $1,500 for more than 24 hours ($100 per day).

Missed port cover is also included up to a total of $1,000 for unforeseen circumstances, and missed shore excursions are covered up to $1,000, granted they were pre-paid and are non-refundable. While there is currently a 15% online discount, it is only available to Medibank members.

• Many preexisting conditions automatically included
• Unlimited medical and dental
• $1,500 cabin confinement cover
• Cover is reduced for those over 70
• Discount only available for Medibank members
• Average customer reviews

Cruise cover is available as an add-on to Cover-More’s international travel insurance plan and is available for those aged up to 99 years of age, pending acceptance via set criteria. There are 32 pre-existing conditions that are automatically covered, as well as unlimited medical and dental cover, including for Covid. There is also cancellation cover related to Covid, with the amount depending on whether the cruise has already departed.

Meanwhile, cabin confinement is covered up to $100 per day when the period of confinement is more than 24 hours, up to a maximum cover of $1,500. Missed ports and missed excursions are also covered up to $1,000 each.

• No online discount
• Tougher criteria for older travellers

Whether you are travelling domestically or internationally on your cruise, you will need to purchase the cruise ‘boost’ plan to Freely’s international travel insurance policy. The plan is available up to 99 years of age, with unlimited on-board medical and dental. There is also cover available for Covid, however, an excess applies for medical and cancellation cover related to the virus. Cabin confinement is also covered up to a maximum of $1,500 (if not related to Covid).

Missed ports cover and missed on-shore excursions cover are also insured up to $1,000 each. As Freely is new on the market, it does not have a large amount of reviews online, and has only scored 1.0 stars out of 5 from fewer than 10 reviews, at the time of writing. More reviews would be required to form an accurate picture of Freely’s customer satisfaction levels.

• Cover up to 99 years
• No discounts
• Covid not covered under ‘cabin confinement’
• Small number of reviews

Cabin Confinement

With Southern Cross travel insurance, cruise cover can be added to both the domestic and the international travel insurance policies depending on where you are travelling. Cover is up to age 118, although there are no pre-existing conditions that are automatically covered (assessment is required for all). There is, however, unlimited medical cover with certain sub-limits applying, as well as emergency dental and Covid cover.

Unfortunately, there is no specific cover available for cabin confinement, nor is there any cover for missed ports or missed on-shore excursions. There is cover for special events under cancellation cover, although this again requires meeting certain criteria.

• Positive online reviews
• Cover up to 118 years old
• Preexisting conditions not automatically included
• No cabin confinement cover
• No missed ports or onshore excursions cover

In order to choose our top picks for the best travel insurance for cruises, Forbes Advisor Australia looked at and analysed nearly 30 different travel insurance providers. In doing so, we found the top nine ranking providers after carefully considering a range of factors.

These factors, and the details of such, were:

• The underwriter: who underwrites the insurance policy;
• Cruise cover type: if it is a standalone policy or an optional add-on;
• How the cruise insurance needs to be purchased: whether you need to purchase a domestic or international policy before you can add cruising, or if it can be purchased individually;
• Maximum age covered: what ages are covered by the policy, and if there are any conditions for travellers above a certain age (such as a higher excess);
• Pre-existing conditions: how many, if any, pre-existing conditions are automatically covered, and what requirements are necessary to have other pre-existing conditions covered;
• Onboard medical and dental treatment: whether or not the onboard medical cover is unlimited and, if so, whether dental is included within that medical treatment or if it has its own sublimit;
• Medical Covid cover: if Covid is included within the unlimited medical cover, or any conditions that would make it void;
• Cabin confinement cover: whether or not you are compensated for cabin confinement due to medical reasons or unforeseen circumstances, as well as how long the confinement must be to qualify and the total compensation amount;
• Emergency evacuation: if you are covered for emergency evacuation due to a worsening medical condition onboard when not nearby to a port;
• Stolen items cover: cover for any stolen items such as laptops or phones;
• Formal wear cover: cover for any damage or theft of formal wear, due to the popularity of black tie events on cruises;
• Lost luggage cover: general lost luggage cover, including sub-limits of items;
• Missed ports cover: whether you’re covered if your cruise misses a port if you are unable to dock due to unforeseen circumstances;
• Missed on-shore excursions cover: whether or not there is any compensation and reimbursement for activities and excursions that are pre-paid and missed, whether due to medical reasons or due to not being able to port;
• General cancellation cover: any general cancellation cover available, such as if you have to cancel the trip prior to embarking or due to Covid;
• Average consumer rating: what the average consumer rating out of 5 is from customers via Australia’s independent review site, ProductReview;
• Online discounts: any online discounts available at the time of writing, and whether there are conditions in order to receive such discount (such as being a customer of the insurer already); and
• Customer service: the customer service capabilities of the company, including any emergency lines and ease of making claims.

About Star Rankings

You will note that we have included a star rating next to each product or provider. This rating was determined by the editorial team once all of the data points above were considered, and the pros and cons of each product attribute was reviewed. The star rating is solely the view of Forbes Advisor editorial staff. Commercial partners or advertisers have no bearing on the star rating or their inclusion on this list. Star ratings are only one factor to be considered, and Forbes Advisor encourages you to seek independent advice from an authorised financial adviser in relation to your own financial circumstances and investments before you decide to choose a particular financial product or service.

It depends on the insurer. As there are certain events unique to cruises, as well as certain risks associated with travelling by sea, many travel insurance companies offer cover that’s tailored to cruising. Others simply cover cruising as part of their comprehensive plans, addressing the terms and conditions of cruising in the pds.

Among those who offer cruising as separate from other travel insurance, there are two main ways to ensure you’re covered for cruising. Some providers allow you to directly purchase a distinct cruise policy, while others require you to purchase an add-on or a ‘cruise pack’ as an adjunct to one of their pre-existing policies.

When analysing the above policies, we also looked at how these were offered by each provider, and considered what the cruise pack was called (if it was an additional add-on), and the level of difficulty for the consumer in understanding their cruise cover.

Domestic Cruise Cover

If you are cruising in Australian waters, you may think that an Australian domestic policy would cut it: but that isn’t necessarily the case. While some policies will allow you to add a cruise pack to a domestic policy if only travelling in domestic waters, it is common for insurance providers to offer the international policy instead—and then ask you to pick ‘domestic cruise’ as the cruise destination under the international policy.

This is because once your ship leaves the port, you’re no longer covered for hospital or medical expenses by Medicare–meaning you won’t be covered for any expenses incurred on-board the ship even if you are travelling in Australian waters. You’re also not covered by Medicare or private health when you’re on land for cruise excursion even if you’re in an Australian state or territory–instead you will need to pay for the onboard medical staff who are not Medicare registered GPs and often very expensive.

This is why a domestic travel insurance policy isn’t enough coverage; you need, at the very least, international comprehensive insurance, with unlimited medical cover.

Travel insurance is encouraged when travelling overseas, and cruising is no exception. With a different travel style comes different travel needs, so here is a brief outline of some of the common events and coverage unique to cruise insurance.

Weather can be unpredictable at the best of times, and can play havoc with cruising schedules. While your itinerary will have planned ports to stop at, allowing you to go onto land and visit different destinations, changes may be made to your itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather restrictions, natural disasters or mechanical failures.

If you are unable to dock at your designated port or ports, some insurers may offer compensation–known as missed ports cover. Commonly, there is an amount of cover for each port missed (such as $250, for example) and a total maximum cover. This is commonly $750 across the insurance market.

You will usually need a written statement from the cruise company confirming the reason for missing the port, and proof that the port was part of your original itinerary, in order to make a claim with most insurance providers.

Missed on-shore excursions

Similar to missed ports cover, missed on-shore excursion cover is for excursions and activities that you cannot attend at a port: whether because the port was missed, or due to other unforeseen conditions.

These unforeseen conditions included cabin confinement, medical reasons, circumstances outside of your control or other unexpected events as covered under the particular policy.

There is usually a limit to the amount of cover the insurer will provide (commonly around $1000), and it can only be put towards the nonrefundable cost of a pre-paid excursion.

Stolen or damaged formal wear

It’s a common occurrence on cruises to have formal evenings, including Great Gatsby-themed nights and black tie events. Because of this, the majority of cruise-goers often have formal attire in their luggage, from tuxedos and evening gowns to expensive jewellery.

As with all insurance policies, the details of the formal wear cover will vary from provider to provider. Commonly, you’ll have a monetary value of cover if your formal wear is stolen, accidentally damaged or permanently lost, however, some other providers may provide cover if your formal wear is delayed before the time of vessel departure and also cover the cost to hire or replace the formal wear in the meantime.

Some policies do not have formal wear cover specifically, but rather include formal wear as a sub-limit with the general lost luggage cover included in the policy.

Cabin confinement

As we learnt during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, cruise ships can be a breeding ground for infections. The Ruby Princess was a clear indicator of this, with the Australian cruise ship playing host to more than 850 infected passengers.

Cruise ships have since had to adapt–as have cruise insurance policy providers–to ensure travellers are protected should an outbreak of a Covid happen again (or of any other virus, for that matter).

Commonly, cruise providers will offer a cabin confinement allowance if you are confined to your cabin or in a medical facility for a certain period, up to a maximum amount. This can cover a daily stipend for you to use on room service or for any needs you require while confined.

The maximum cover is usually around $1,500, so anything around that ballpark is considered a good cabin confinement offer.

Most cruise insurance policies offer unlimited medical cover while on board the ship, and most ships have extensive medical facilities to help protect you should you fall ill or injure yourself. But in this day and age, Covid is something all travellers would want to be covered for, too.

Of the top nine cruise insurance providers Forbes Advisor Australia chose, all of them offered Covid cover. Any insurer that didn’t offer this specification was ranked lower, due to the increased need for Covid cover in general–but especially while sailing at sea.

The level of cover for Covid varies across providers, but it is expected that travellers are covered for hospital and medical needs under the unlimited medical cover. Some providers may have certain excess requirements for certain Covid-related claims, and may also cover cabin confinement should you fall ill with the virus.

More premium providers will also include Covid as a reason for cancellation prior to embarking on your trip, and a reason to be able to claim missed ports cover or missed on-shore excursions. There may be excess requirements with these claims, or certain sub-limits depending on the provider.

It’s essential that you read the product disclosure statement before taking out a cruise insurance policy so you know exactly what you’re covered for, Covid-related and otherwise.

Should you have travel insurance for a cruise?

Yes, if you are going on a cruise, you should purchase travel insurance. In fact, most cruise companies will not allow you to embark on the cruise without a travel insurance policy. As cruises have different requirements for travel insurance, you will need to ensure your international comprehensive cover includes cruising, purchase a policy that is specific to cruising, or an add-on a cruise pack to your regular policy. You can find out how to purchase the policy through your travel insurance provider, as they each have different processes.

What type of insurance do you need for a cruise?

To travel on a cruise you need a cruise-specific travel insurance, travel insurance which offers cruise cover as an add-on or comprehensive travel insurance that includes cruising.

Which companies offer cruise insurance?

There are many different insurance companies that offer specific cruise insurance, including health insurance companies, such as Medibank and Bupa, to newer insurance startup companies focused on travel insurance, such as Freely.

Sophie Venz is an experienced editor and features reporter, and has previously worked in the small business and start-up reporting space. Previously the Associate Editor of SmartCompany site, Sophie has worked closely with finance experts and columnists around Australia and internationally. Sophie grew up on the Gold Coast and now lives in Melbourne.

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Home > Travel Insurance > Medibank Travel Insurance Review

Medibank Travel Insurance Review

Learn more about Medibank's travel insurance policies to find out about their coverage and fees and compare them with other insurers today.

Fact checked

For more than 45 years, Medibank has been providing insurance products to Australians across a range of services, whether they be for health, pets and life. Since 2006, Medibank has been offering travel insurance policies to Australians looking to take a holiday here and abroad.

Savvy can help you compare their policies with those of other providers if you're curious about how they stack up. By comparing coverage specifics, you can shop for the best coverage and lowest price on travel insurance for your next trip, no matter whether you’re heading to Bali or Brisbane.

We make it easy to shop around by providing instant quotes from a range of top insurers, so compare with us now and get a quote today.

*Please note that Savvy does not represent Medibank for its insurance products.

More about Medibank travel insurance

What travel insurance policies does medibank offer.

Medibank's travel insurance offers include:

• Domestic Travel Insurance: Medibank’s version of a domestic travel insurance policy offers coverage for cancellation of flights, missing or stolen luggage and any accidents resulting in you being found personally liable. There’s also some coverage for COVID-19-related costs and the excess on a hire car.
• International Medical Only: this stripped-back medical-only policy covers you for the bare necessities such as overseas health treatment and personal liability, but you’ll need to pay extra if you want to be covered for flight cancellations or delays.
• International Comprehensive: Medibank’s top-of-the-line policy not only covers you for overseas medical and dental emergencies but also includes coverage for your valuables such as cameras, phones and computers and unforeseen cancellations.
• Annual Multi-Trip: designed for the frequent traveller, this annual travel insurance policy allows you to make multiple international and domestic trips over 12 months and be covered by one policy. One condition of coverage is that you must be more than 250km from home while you’re on holiday.

Before you head out on that long-awaited holiday, however, it’s important to compare travel insurance prices with Savvy to ensure you're getting the best deal possible. It’s crucial to know what your travel insurance policy covers before deciding on which is best for you.

What optional extras are available through Medibank?

Riding a motorbike or taking a cruise while on holiday may not be covered by your standard travel insurance policy or may incur an additional premium from your provider. Medibank, like many other providers, provides a selection of optional extras, such as:

• Winter sports cover: whether you’re taking a trip to some of Australia’s most popular ski resorts or taking your board or sled to New Zealand to carve up the slopes, Medibank offers optional coverage for skiing, snowboarding or sledding.
• Motorcycle cover: like most providers, Medibank offers coverage for motorcycle or moped riders and their passengers if you plan to explore your destination on two wheels.
• Extra luggage limits: if you're taking valuables, whether they be false teeth, a laptop or a drone, on your holiday, Medibank allows you to pay a little bit extra to increase the claimable limit if they become lost, stolen or damaged.
• Cruise cover: Medibank offers a standalone cruise policy which covers you for on-board medical and dental treatment, seasickness, cabin confinement and missed port and shore excursions, whether you’re setting sail for a trip to Bali or cruising through Australian waters.

What exclusions should I be aware of when buying travel insurance through Medibank?

Although most travel mishaps are covered by insurance, most Australian insurers have standard exclusions they do not pay for. It's common knowledge that they'll be described in detail in the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS). Some of the general exclusions on Medibank's coverage include:

• Claims resulting from travel on a privately-chartered aircraft
• If you’re injured or suffer a loss due to war or a revolution at your destination
• Radioactive contamination caused by nuclear waste
• Loss or damages caused by detention or confiscation
• Claims resulting from you breaking the law
• Claims of loss of enjoyment

If you've done your research and found a policy that interests you, you should review the PDS from the provider before making any decisions.

What we think of Medibank's travel insurance

What we like, generous personal liability.

Medibank’s travel insurance policies offer generous limits on personal liability claims of up to $5 million, which is high compared to other providers.

COVID-19 coverage

Medibank offers cover for COVID-19-related costs , including cancelling your trip due to COVID-19 and any overseas medical costs you incur if you test positive.

Discounts for Medibank Private members

Existing Medibank and ahm health insurance customers get a discount of 15% off their travel insurance, perhaps making the policy cheaper than some of their competitors.

What we don't like

Limited pregnancy cover.

In order to be completely insured if you’re pregnant, you’ll need to pass a health evaluation and coverage is only guaranteed up to the 26th week of your pregnancy.  

Age limit  

Medibank restricts insurance to persons younger than 84 years old, in contrast to certain other providers which have no such age restriction. 

Modest pre-existing coverage

If you suffer from a heart condition, cardiovascular disease or certain types of diabetes, you will need to undergo a medical assessment and have cover for your pre-existing medical condition approved by Medibank.

Types of travel insurance

International.

International travel insurance can offer cover for a range of events, including medical expenses, lost luggage or items, cancellation fees and more when you're overseas and a long way from home.

If you're journeying within Australia, domestic policies are designed to offer many of the same protections as international travel insurance (with the exception of medical expenses).

Single trip

The most standard and common type of travel insurance, this policy can cover you for one trip starting and ending in Australia (and is available for both international and domestic travel).

Annual multi-trip

As the name suggests, this type of travel insurance covers multiple trips over a 12-month period. Depending on your insurer, you may be able to take an unlimited number of trips up to 90 days each.

You don't have to have a return ticket booked to take out cover while you're overseas. One-way travel insurance enables you to access cover without a set end date, such as if you're moving temporarily.

You may need to take out specialist coverage if you're setting sail on a cruise. Fortunately, cruise insurance can cover emergency evacuation, cabin confinement and more.

Just because you're older doesn't mean travel insurance isn't still important. If you qualify for cover, seniors' travel insurance can offer greater peace of mind for included events while you're travelling.

Adding winter sports or ski cover to your policy can add protection against damage to your equipment, piste closure due to bad weather and activities such as back-country skiing, heliskiing and more.

Adventure sports

Looking to enjoy some adventure sports on holiday? An adventure sports pack can grant you cover for a range of activities, such as hiking, scuba diving and motorcycle or scooter riding.

Jetsetting with the whole clan in tow? Some insurers offer family travel insurance, which enables you to include yourself, your partner and your dependent children under one policy to help you save.

If you're travelling interstate or overseas with your partner (or simply another friend or family member), you may be able to access a discount by taking out a joint or duo travel insurance policy.

Why compare travel insurance with Savvy?

Reputable insurance partners, fast and convenient online process.

You can complete the quote, comparison and purchase process online through Savvy quickly and easily.

Competitive quote costs

Regardless of the type of insurance you’re looking for, we can help you compare between competitive quotes.

Frequently asked questions about Medibank Travel Insurance

Medibank gives you two options for filing a claim: online or through the mail. If you’re filing a claim through their website, Medibank requires you to tell them a bit about the incident you’re looking to claim for and upload any scanned receipts and supporting documents to back up your claim. Medibank also requires you to lodge your claim within 60 days of your return home and you must report any losses, whether it be cash or luggage, within seven days of the incident.

Up to 26 weeks of pregnancy, you are covered by most Medibank travel insurance policies. Hyperemesis, gestational diabetes, and other pregnancy-related disorders are not covered by Medibank if they were diagnosed after you purchased the coverage.

If you're planning a trip and want to relax, buying travel insurance is a necessity. There is no one, all-encompassing answer to the question of how much travel insurance costs since so many variables come into play. Some of these will include:

• Your chosen destination
• The level of coverage you buy
• Any optional extras you need
• Pre-existing medical conditions you need to disclose
• The policy excess you choose
• The type of insurer and insurance policy you buy

The difference between multi-trip travel insurance and a single-trip policy is the number of journeys you can take in a year (usually allowing between 45 and 90 travel days for each trip). If you haven’t yet bought a return ticket, a one-way travel insurance policy protects you for just one leg of the journey for up to 12 months, which you may be able to extend by an extra 12 months.

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Cruise travel insurance: What it covers and why you need it

What does cruise travel insurance cover? And does it pay to buy cruise travel insurance?

The answer is not always clear-cut, as we'll discuss in this guide. But consider this: It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising. Even the best-laid plans for a cruise vacation can sometimes be thrown off course by an unexpected event.

You might need to cancel a cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness, such as COVID-19 or the flu. Or, maybe you fall ill during the cruise and need emergency medical attention. Maybe your flight to your ship gets canceled, and you miss the vessel's departure. Or your ship is late arriving in port at the end of a voyage, and you miss your flight home.

In all of these situations, you might benefit from having cruise travel insurance — keyword "might."

Cruise insurance policies vary widely, and not every policy covers every type of mishap. That's why it always pays to read the fine print in a travel insurance policy before you purchase it to know what you're getting in advance.

It's also why you should read this introduction to everything you need to know about cruise insurance. It has many details, but the next time something unexpected happens on your cruise vacation, you'll be glad to be educated and covered by a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

What does travel insurance cover when you cruise?

The typical cruise insurance policy covers a wide range of circumstances that can go wrong in conjunction with a vacation at sea — both before and during the sailing.

For starters, policies often will reimburse you for the cost of canceling a cruise due to a last-minute crisis. They will also often cover costs related to an interruption of a cruise (maybe your ship breaks down, requiring you to fly home mid-voyage ). These two elements are known as trip-cancellation and trip-interruption insurance, and they are bundled into a typical travel insurance policy.

Some policies will also cover out-of-pocket costs related to a flight delay or cancellation that results in you missing your cruise departure (for instance, the cost of catching up to the ship at its next port). Expenses related to baggage delays and loss are often covered as well.

But perhaps most importantly, many travel insurance policies will cover medical expenses you incur while on a cruise. Some will even cover the cost of evacuating from a foreign destination if you are in the midst of a medical crisis.

Travel insurance giant Allianz Global Assistance reports that 53% of all cruise-related "billing reasons" for claims are because of illness for the insured person, while 14% are for an injury. Another 8% are for the illness of a family member, 4% for the death of a family member and 4% for the illness of a traveling companion, among other reasons.

Those percentages include illness and accidents that happen to cruisers just before a trip, making travel impossible. But, in many cases, such claims result from illness and injuries that occur during voyages.

"People often take risks during vacation that they might not take back home, whether riding a jet ski, zipping around on a motorized scooter in a city they don't know well or hiking unfamiliar terrain," James Page, senior vice president and chief administration officer of AIG Travel, told TPG .

Some policies also cover the financial default of a travel provider. In such cases, if your cruise line goes out of business before you sail, you could get all — or at least some — of your money back.

Cruise travel insurance policies don't cover everything. For instance, standard travel insurers generally will not reimburse you for the cost of a cruise you cancel due to worries about an outbreak of an illness. That's true even if a U.S. government agency such as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issues a recommendation that you don't cruise due to an illness outbreak, as it did during the COVID-19 pandemic .

If you want the ultimate flexibility to cancel for such a reason or any other, you'll want to look into a more expensive cancel for any reason travel insurance upgrade.

Related: Avoiding outbreaks isn't covered by most travel insurance policies

Where to find a cruise travel insurance policy

You can buy a travel insurance policy directly from your cruise line when booking your trip or through your travel agent (if you're using one, which often is a good idea when booking a cruise). You also can go directly to a third-party travel insurance provider or a travel-insurance aggregator site, such as InsureMyTrip or TravelInsurance . Your credit card might even give you some travel protections.

Here's what you need to know about each type of cruise travel insurance.

Third-party insurance companies

Third-party insurance companies that specialize in writing travel insurance include AIG Travel, Allianz Travel Insurance, Travelex Insurance and American Express Travel Insurance.

One reason to use a travel agent or a travel aggregator: They can help you find a policy that offers added coverage specific to cruising.

Related: The Points Guy's guide to the best travel insurance companies

"Many plans now offer benefits that will specifically appeal to cruise travelers, such as missed connection, missed port-of-call and cruise disablement coverage," Stan Sandberg, cofounder of TravelInsurance.com, said.

Missed connection coverage reimburses cruisers for a set dollar amount if they need to rebook travel to catch up with their cruise at the next port. Missed port-of-call coverage pays a benefit if the cruise ship misses a scheduled port of call due to weather, a natural disaster or a mechanical breakdown.

Cruise disablement coverage pays a benefit if the traveler is confined on a ship for more than five hours without power, food, water or restrooms.

As noted, policies vary widely. It's a good idea to compare plans and make sure the one you buy has the elements that are most important to you. One size doesn't fit all.

Credit cards with travel benefits

Some premium credit cards offer valuable travel protections comparable to what you might get from a standard travel insurance plan. For example, the travel insurance provided when you pay for travel with select cards can reimburse you for expenses if your baggage is damaged, you're stranded overnight due to a flight delay or cancellation, or you have to return home to handle a family medical emergency.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card, for example, offers trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, emergency medical coverage and even medical evacuation coverage , among other benefits. And yes, cruise lines are considered common carriers just like airlines.

If you're planning to rely on a card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or The Platinum Card® from American Express * (among others) for travel insurance, just be sure to recheck your card's benefits and limits carefully against regular travel insurance. You must pay for at least part — and sometimes all — of the trip with that credit card to take advantage of its protections.

*Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Find out if your credit card protection includes travel accident insurance or covers preexisting medical conditions, and figure out when it will pay you back. Other questions to ask: What are the coverage limits? Will you have to pay for a foreign hospital bill upfront and then seek reimbursement later?

Cruise lines

Cruise lines often ask consumers booking a cruise to buy the line's own protection at the time of purchase. If specifics about the coverage are lacking, always ask the line for details in advance, review coverage perks and limits; then, compare those to one or two independent travel insurance policies or your credit card's insurance benefits.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Cruise line travel insurance policies sometimes have quirks. Many cruise companies will only offer a travel voucher or credit for future use in the event of a covered cancellation, not an outright refund.

Also, financial default may not be a covered event in a cruise line-sold policy, but it's typically covered with plans from third-party travel insurance companies.

Cruise line policies also can be more restrictive.

"Cruise line insurance seems to have become better and has more widespread coverage than in the past, but it typically won't cover air or pre- and post-travel [arrangements] unless those elements are purchased through [the line]," said Debra Kerper, a Cruise Planners travel adviser from Carrollton, Texas, who books travel and sells private insurance. "This is when private insurance coverage becomes so very important."

How much does cruise insurance cost?

Expect to pay anywhere from 4% to 8% of your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses for a travel insurance policy. That's a wide range, we know, but it reflects the wide range of products out there.

You'll also find some basic plans that cost even less than 4% of your trip expenses, while some super-premium plans that cover just about any conceivable issue can cost as much as 12% of your trip expenses.

Related: What's included in your cruise fare?

All reputable insurance companies will offer a "free-look period" during which you can receive a 100% refund on your premium. This allows you to review the policy you've selected and return it for any reason within the period allotted — usually for a small administration fee of less than $10.

Under normal circumstances, you don't need to purchase a so-called "cancel for any reason" add-on to your cruise travel insurance policy unless you really need the flexibility. The upgrades are significantly more expensive.

You can receive a quote and purchase a policy online in minutes with any credit card. Although you may think travel insurance should code as "travel" when paid on a credit card and thus be eligible for bonus points on certain cards, that isn't always the case. Your points earnings will depend on the individual underwriter's merchant code. When in doubt, expect the purchase to fall under the insurance category for earnings.

Should I buy travel insurance for a cruise?

Whether you buy travel insurance is a personal decision that will depend on many factors. Would you be willing to absorb the loss of canceling a cruise on short notice due to an illness or accident? Could you afford an evacuation flight from a far-off port if you suddenly became seriously ill? Only you can answer those sorts of questions.

Here are some things to consider as you make that decision.

You might not be covered by regular medical insurance while cruising

If you're a U.S. citizen traveling internationally (which will be the case for most cruises), you may find that most private medical insurance plans in the U.S. won't cover you.

Additionally, Original Medicare only covers people traveling outside U.S. borders in limited circumstances.

While certain Medicare Supplement Plans do have some foreign emergency medical benefits, not all do. Be sure to talk to your Medical Supplemental Plan provider to see if you're covered, what's covered, what the limits are and how the bill is paid.

Also note that, in some countries (particularly those in Central and South America), travelers may not be discharged from a hospital until their bill is paid in full.

Related: Trip wrecked: 7 ways to prepare for any kind of travel disaster

Plus, if you have a medical incident overseas, you could find yourself stuck in a shared hospital room without air conditioning or a private bathroom. The level of care may not be what you expect.

"For people traveling internationally, it's crucial to know beforehand where to go for any treatment … and how they're going to pay for that treatment," Page said.

Getting evacuated for a medical condition is expensive

Most airlines won't accept seriously ill passengers, those carrying bulky medical equipment or those requiring a full medical team.

Even a low-cost weekend getaway on a cruise to the Bahamas out of Miami can turn costly if you suffer a serious accident or illness requiring medical treatment or an emergency medical evacuation.

Related: Do cruise ships have doctors, nurses, medical centers or hospitals?

Being flown back to the U.S. from a far-flung overseas location in a private, medically equipped aircraft, with a professional medical team on board, can run between $70,000 and $180,000, according to Mike Hallman, president and CEO of Medjet, a medical transport membership company.

"Domestic transports, which we cover as well, can cost upwards of $30,000," Hallman said.

Without proof of medical evacuation coverage, foreign providers will also want that money upfront. Hallman said that regular travel insurance will typically get you to an acceptable overseas hospital and even to a higher-level care facility if "medically necessary." Alternatively, medical evacuation coverage means you can fly home to your own hospital, doctors and family — without claim forms, cost caps on transports or surprise bills.

The tandem approach — buying both travel insurance and a separate medevac transport membership — is a good option, Hallman said.

"We always recommend travel insurance, as it covers trip interruption, which is important, as well as medical coverage for the hospital and treatment costs," he said. "We pick up where they leave off."

You can't predict the weather

Cruising is a great way to explore multiple destinations in one trip. But it's good to remember that unexpected delays, interruptions or cancellations due to weather can happen during cruises, particularly during hurricane seasons in places such as the Caribbean and Asia (where hurricanes are called typhoons).

During a typical hurricane season (June 1 to Nov. 30), Allianz pays about 6,000 claims from customers whose travel plans in the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico and southeastern U.S. are affected by the storms, according to a spokesperson for Allianz Global Assistance USA.

If you're hoping to insure against a storm-related disaster, it's good to buy travel insurance as early as possible. Once a storm or hurricane is named, it's too late to buy travel insurance to cover it.

Of course, cruise lines will move ships away from a weather threat. When the port lineup is adjusted or the cruise shortened, the company will offer the guest an onboard credit, onboard gift or future cruise credit rather than any refund. It depends on the circumstances of that specific voyage. You won't be able to make a claim on your cruise travel insurance policy just for a minor itinerary change .

Related: Everything you need to know about cruising during hurricane season

Costs can mount quickly when things go wrong

Even if the cruise line does provide a full or partial refund or cruise credit for an itinerary change or some other interruption, travelers could have to swallow the cost of other travel elements not purchased through the line. That could include nonrefundable flights , prepaid resort or hotel nights, nonrefundable tour fees and more.

Travel insurance can cover those, plus help with flight delays or cancellations, baggage loss or theft.

If a winter storm causes you to miss your flight to where the ship is boarding , "travel insurance could help you get to the next port to join the cruise, so you don't miss your entire trip," Page said.

In fact, 13% of "billing reasons" for claims to Allianz are for common carrier delays (such as a flight delay), while weather and natural disaster-related claims account for about 3%.

The government probably won't bail you out

While cruise ships have medical facilities, they're usually not equipped to treat serious illnesses. If you experience a serious medical problem on a vessel, you may have to get off the ship in a foreign port to seek treatment at a hospital. In such a case, if you don't have medical evacuation insurance, you may then find yourself stranded in that port awaiting a medical evacuation.

Don't expect Uncle Sam to step in and help foot the bill.

The U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs clearly states the importance of buying travel insurance.

"The U.S. government does not provide medical insurance for U.S. citizens overseas," the bureau says on the website. "We do not pay medical bills. You should purchase insurance before you travel."

You may need more assistance than you think

If you're injured or become severely ill during a cruise, especially in a foreign country, it may be difficult to access help without the assistance of trained professionals that comes with many insurance plans.

Many travel insurance companies provide around-the-clock assistance with locating overseas clinics and pharmacies, getting to a doctor or hospital, refilling lost or depleted prescriptions, assisting with up-front payments to hospitals, and arranging flight changes so you can get home.

Travel insurance companies also can arrange for an air ambulance, a nurse escort, oxygen and a lie-flat seat on a flight home if your medical condition warrants it.

You want to be careful if you have preexisting conditions

When you cruise, it's important to be fully covered, which means having comprehensive medical coverage that includes any preexisting conditions. Otherwise, if you head into a doctor's office overseas, have any tests completed, or visit an urgent care center or emergency room, you might not be covered.

Here, timing is extremely important. Cruisers seeking coverage of preexisting conditions, as well as cancel for any reason insurance, generally must book within seven to 21 days of the first payment they make for a trip. The timing varies by insurer.

Bottom line

Cruise insurance isn't for every traveler — or even for every sailing. It's not inexpensive. However, it can bring a lot of peace of mind if you're about to head out to sea. Do your homework, compare plans and always assess the risks.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Please Note - If you are cruising around Australia you need to select Pacific. With Regions, variances can apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. You are not required to enter stop-over countries if your stop-over is less than 48 hours.

If you don’t know where you’re traveling to within the next 12 months, choose Worldwide to ensure you’re covered no matter where you go. If you’re travelling to multiple countries choose the region that you are visiting that is furthest away (excluding stopovers less than 48 hours). In most cases you will be covered for the closer regions as well. For example, if you choose Europe, you will also be covered in the Middle East, Asia and Pacific.

Worldwide means anywhere in the world

Americas means USA, Canada, South America, Latin America, Hawaii and the Caribbean

Europe means all European countries, including UK

Middle East refers to the area from Syria to Yemen; Egypt to Iran

Asia generally means Asia and the Indian subcontinent. For some insurers this excludes Japan*

Pacific means the South West Pacific, Australia and Indonesia/Bali*. Select Pacific for domestic cruises in New Zealand waters

New Zealand means domestic travel within New Zealand only

*Note: Variances apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. Check that your destination is covered once directed to your chosen insurer’s site.

Medibank travel insurance Reviews

Medibank want you to recharge your batteries and live better by taking a break by having a holiday. And when you do, they’ll will have your back. Policies are available to those under 84 years. Dependants travel for free with parent or grandparent. They offer 24/7 emergency assistance no matter where you are in the world. Underwritten by Great Lakes Australia.

Customer Experience

Claims experience, value for money.

Just a bad policy - do not buy

Their travel insurance policy: 1. Has no provision for force majeure. If you need to change your ...  Read more

Their travel insurance policy: 1. Has no provision for force majeure. If you need to change your plans due to circumstances foreseeable or unforeseeable you cannot claim. If a third party changing their plans gives you cause for a claim, that is also no basis. This is covered as "you or any other person's unwillingness to proceed with the journey or deciding to change plans". 2. Additional expenses are only claimable if the claim falls under one of the defined coverage scenarios. For instance, if meals were prepaid, you cannot claim for them. Also, if shortening your holiday, causes you to dispose of food already purchased, you cannot claim. 3. All expenses claimed must be explicitly covered in the policy. 4. Additional costs due to rescheduling of transport are only covered under a very narrow range of scenarios: Riot etc.; Cyber incident; Loss of passport or travel documents; collision; delay of transport

0 comment on this review

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Waiting over 2 months and no way to contact them

I purchased travel insurance for $500, and my claims experience has been an absolute nightmare. I...  Read more

I purchased travel insurance for $500, and my claims experience has been an absolute nightmare. I has an injury in Europe and called their 24hr hotline, they requested for so much information about the situation but offered very little support, apart from telling me to make my way home and making a claim once I’m home. Once home the claims progress has been a joke, the online portal doesn’t work, phone calls are not helpful and no one responds to emails. It’s been a nightmare almost as bad as the injury itself. Would not recommend

Didnt cover cancelled flights?

Our Family of four Travelled from Bulgaria to Rome. We had to stay overnight and make a connecting f...  Read more

Our Family of four Travelled from Bulgaria to Rome. We had to stay overnight and make a connecting flight in Sofia. When we arrived at the airport the following day, we discovered that our connecting flight to Rome had been cancelled. We then spent hours in the airport, with two small children panicking on websites trying to rebook a flight. Eventually the following day for double the price. It was incredibly stressful, our credit cards wouldn't work we ended up having to call our sister in Australia to help us. We went back to the hotel and then caught the connecting flight onwards to Rome the next day. Missing valuable days of our holiday with friends who were waiting in Rome for us. When we returned to Australia we began the complicated process of trying to get a refund from the company that we had used, they were called Travelgino. During that process, we realized that they absolutely diabolical reputation and there were thousands of people across the world complaining that they hadn't been notified of cancelled flights. There were whole special websites set up to complain about them and to help you with the complaint process, which really showed how widespread this problem was. After a number of months of chasing them, the company actually went bust! We then went back to Medibank expecting them that they would cover us for our cancelled flights. However, our claim was rejected on the basis that the company had gone bust. We went back to Medibank and explained that that had happened after the event, and that was not the reason for the cancelled flights. They said it didn't matter and the only thing that we would be covered for would be if there was a strike. We have resubmitted the complaint back to Medibank again in the hope that they will reconsider, as it seemed completely ridiculous that travel insurance doesn't cover you for a cancelled flight. I have very little hope for a resolution, we have been Medibank customers for our medical insurance for many years and pay them thousands and thousands of dollars a year. If this isn't resolved I will be cancelling my medical insurance also, I wouldn't ever use them for travel insurance either. It's just really disappointing all around, my husband gets recently lost his job and that money would be really helpful at the moment. Highly unrecommended

No Reply In A Month And Then Demanded Info Already Suppied

I Purchased a policy for in excess of $900 for insurance including the covid cover. We had to alter o...  Read more

I Purchased a policy for in excess of $900 for insurance including the covid cover. We had to alter our plans due to covid. I put in an online claim on my return. I had no reply in over a month. After calling and complaining I then received an email demanding information I have already supplied. I am now trying to supply this information again, but the online claim portal is not functioning. As a Medibank private customer of over 20 years I am appalled. Do not purchase.

No response in over a month

Tried calling 5 times, between 1hr and 2:40 wait times and gave up. Tried emailing, auto res...  Read more

Tried calling 5 times, between 1hr and 2:40 wait times and gave up. Tried emailing, auto response states 5 business days to respond, 5 emails and 5 weeks later, still no response. Tried to make a claim online, did not recognize the policy number provided to me. No way to contact them or make a claim.

Sold as travel insurance but only want to pay medical

We purchased travel insurance, however while traveling our transport broke down causing us to have to...  Read more

We purchased travel insurance, however while traveling our transport broke down causing us to have to return home after a week and a half of of our five and a half week planned holiday, which was paid in full. None of this was our fault and we were unable to recoup anything of our prepaid accommodations and had to purchase airfare extensions. We paid a premium for the insurance due to some existing medical condition which were not a issue in this matter.We were contacted by the insurer after we submitted the claim and informed that the transport issue was not covered.This travel insurance is misrepresented and basically only covers medical issues

Good BUT make sure you lower your excess

I have purchased twice but the first time I didn't realise that the excess was per item on your c...  Read more

I have purchased twice but the first time I didn't realise that the excess was per item on your claim (not per claim per se). I strongly encourage you to lower your excess to $0 to make the travel insurance worth your money

1 comment on this review

Exceeded Expectations

Successful claim on smashed phone screen, many online complained other insurers rejected this type of...  Read more

Successful claim on smashed phone screen, many online complained other insurers rejected this type of claim. Completed within 2 days!

Too Many Hoops and No Compassion. Great when You pay. No so good if they have to pay!

Customer service was fine, until I had to make a claim, which is the only reason I gave them a 3. Ba...  Read more

Customer service was fine, until I had to make a claim, which is the only reason I gave them a 3. Based on recent events, it should have been a 1. You need to be aware that although this review is on Medibank, when it comes to their travel insurance you do not actually deal with Medibank. It is in fact, Great Lakes Australia and the claims process is managed by Travel Insurance Partners not Medibank. This same arrangement applies to many other travel insurance suppliers so simply changing your insurer may not change the people you will have to deal with in a claim. I've learned my lesson and I will always look at who the insurer is and who handles claims before I buy travel insurance again. I booked a trip but just 3 weeks before I was due to travel, I was diagnosed with cancer and had to cancel. This diagnosis came as a result of the Government's Bowel cancer testing program and I had no symptoms or family history of cancer prior to this. Travel Insurance Partners made the claim process very difficult at every step even demanding nearly four years of medical records despite having a certificate from my doctor, of more than ten years, that he had never treated me for this disease. Unable to find any excuse they finally had to pay me after more than five months. It was useless complaining to Medibank as they simply referred any complaint to Travel Insurance Partners. After my experience, I would not recommend placing your your travel insurance with these people.

A really helpful and good travel insurance that allowed my family to feel comfortable traveling overs...  Read more

A really helpful and good travel insurance that allowed my family to feel comfortable traveling overseas knowing that we would be looked after in the event of an accident or emergency

3 comments on this review

Medibank Private FAQ

How many people can i include in my policy.

You can purchase a policy online to include up to 8 travellers.

Am I covered if I go on a cruise?

Yes, you don’t even need to pick a cruise specific policy. Here’s a top tip: Even if you’re travelling in Aussie water you still need to pick pacific.

Can I pay to reduce or cancel my excess?

No but you can choose what type of excess you would like to pay. The higher the excess, the lower your premium.

What additional extras are there?

You can increase your luggage cover up to $4,500 for any single item and for for multiple items no higher than $8,000.

Am I covered if my tour company collapses?

Medibank doesn’t provide protection from insolvency.

I’m not an Australian resident- can I buy cover?

No you have to be an Australian resident with a booked return journey back to Australia.

What size moped or motorbike am I covered to ride overseas?

You must pay an additional premium to be covered for riding, or being a passenger on a moped or scooter. Even with the additional premiumyou are not insured to ride anything with an engine capacity larger than 200cc and you must hold a license valid in the country you are riding. Don’t forget to wear a helmet too!

How long is their single trip cover for?

Can i extend my policy from overseas.

Having too much fun? You cannot extend your current policy, but it’s no problem to just purchase a new one. If you experience a medical condition in between buying the second policy, this condition may now be considered a pre-existing medical condition. So make sure you let them know.

Do they cover for my rental vehicle excess?

Yes, for up to $4,000. You are only insured for a rented sedan, campervan, hatchback, 8 seater people mover or station-wagon (including 4WDs) rented from a licensed motor vehicle rental company.

What is their cooling off period?

Who underwrites them.

Great Lakes Australia.  

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Our comparison is a free service that allows users to compare quotes in a few simple steps based on limited personal criteria. Comparisons supplied are not a recommendation or opinion about the suitability of a policy for a user. Comparisons are default ranked according to price and users have the ability to sort by popular cover levels. Whilst we compare a vast range of policies, we do not compare all providers in the market. This site compares the following brands: 1Cover, AllClear, Budget Direct, Downunder, Fast Cover Travel Insurance, Insure4Less, InsureandGo, iTrek, Simply Travel Insurance, Ski-Insurance, Travel Insurance Saver, Travel Insuranz, Wise Traveller, Zoom Travel Insurance . The directors and shareholders are common with companies i-Trek Pty Ltd, Zoom Travel Insurance and 1Cover Pty Ltd including it’s subsidiary brand Ski-insurance. CoverDirect takes all reasonable care when preparing this information but does not warrant its accuracy. Pricing information is supplied by the providers who participate on this site and should be verified with the insurer before you purchase. This site links users to the website of the provider to verify quotes and access the relevant PDS to understand what is, and is not, covered by a policy prior to purchase.

CoverDirect Pty Ltd owns and operates this website under AFS Licence 383590.  Located at Level 12, 338 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia.

For further information view our FSG and Terms of Use . Contact us by calling 1300 659 411.

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Does travel insurance cover COVID-19 or other pandemics?

What you're covered for when travelling during an epidemic or pandemic like covid-19..

Fact-checked

Checked for accuracy by our qualified fact-checkers and verifiers. Find out more about fact-checking at CHOICE .

Australians are back on the international travel bandwagon, but many of us still have bad memories of travel plans that went south due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

With those hard-learned lessons behind us, you'll want to ask the tough questions of your travel insurance policy for any future trips. Will travel insurance cover COVID-19 medical expenses or cancellation due to related government travel bans or isolation requirements? And will travel insurance policies cover future pandemics or epidemics?

On this page:

Can you get travel insurance to cover COVID-19?

Which travel insurers cover covid-19, domestic travel insurance for covid-19, does travel insurance cover covid-19 on a cruise, can you get a refund on travel insurance, your travel insurer declined your covid-19 claim. now what, does travel insurance cover pandemics or epidemics (other than covid-19).

Many travel insurance policies will provide limited cover if you or your travelling companion get COVID-19.

Cover will likely be limited to medical, and sometimes quarantine and cancellation costs if you contract COVID-19. Some policies may cover you for expenses if you can't travel because you're a close contact.

Travel insurance is unlikely to cover you for cancellation due to government travel bans.

Many of the most popular travel insurers in Australia, like Cover-More, Allianz, Tick and Travel Insurance Direct, provide cover for COVID-19. The table below shows which international travel insurance policies cover COVID-19 medical and cancellation costs if you're diagnosed with COVID-19 while overseas. 

You may have to pay an optional extra fee for COVID-19 cover. Check the insurer's product disclosure statement (PDS) for more details. 

• 'Variable' means multiple cover options are available and you can select the level of cover you require (for an additional fee).
• Cancellation may not cover you if you're deemed a close contact but haven't tested positive yourself. 

* No cancellation prior to departure; $5000 if you contract COVID-19 on your trip.

Does travel insurance cover medical expenses for COVID-19?

Policies that cover medical expenses for COVID-19 will pay for emergency medical and hospital, and medically assisted repatriation to Australia, if deemed necessary. Most policies that cover COVID-19 provide unlimited cover for medical expenses.

Does travel insurance cover cancellation due to COVID-19?

Some policies will cover cancellation and amendment expenses if you get COVID-19 before you leave or while you're overseas. These policies may also cover you for cancellation and amendment expenses if you're deemed a close contact of someone who tests positive to COVID-19, but this isn't always the case. The cover amount can be limited to as little as a couple thousand dollars, so check with your travel insurer specifically to find out what they'll cover because it can be tricky.

Below are some of the typical exclusions for cancellation cover.

• Cooling-off periods for COVID-19 cancellation cover are usually 72 hours.
• Cover-More and other policies underwritten by Zurich, such as Flight Centre, AHM and Medibank, place restrictions on COVID-19 cancellation cover if you bought the policy within 21 days of your departure date. Check your PDS for details.
• Most (but not all) policies that cover COVID-19 cancellations will provide limited cancellation cover if a non-travelling relative residing in Australia has contracted COVID-19.
• These policies may also cover cancellation and amendment costs if you're designated a close contact of someone with COVID-19 and are required to self-isolate while on your trip.
• Travel insurance is unlikely to cover cancellation costs if you're unable to travel due to general travel restrictions, like lockdowns at home or at your destination, or government travel alerts due to COVID-19.

Does travel insurance cover additional expenses and quarantine costs for COVID-19?

If you contract COVID-19 while on your overseas trip, some policies will provide limited cover for additional accommodation and meal costs under specific circumstances, such as:

• if you're denied boarding scheduled public transport because you have tested positive to COVID-19
• if you have to go to hospital or self-isolate with COVID-19.

If you're ordered into quarantine while overseas because you've contracted COVID-19, some policies will cover your quarantine expenses. However, if you're ordered into quarantine as a close contact, without having contracted COVID-19, very few policies will cover your expenses in this scenario.

There are several insurers selling domestic travel insurance, but not all insurers will cover COVID-19. Domestic travel insurance doesn't cover medical expenses, because that's covered by Medicare or your private health insurance. So you'll just need COVID-19 cover for cancellation or additional expenses if you're travelling around Australia. 

Read the travel insurance PDS to check whether you're covered for cancellation if you, or someone you're travelling with, catches COVID-19. Travel insurance is unlikely to cover you for government travel bans.

Travel insurance for an Aussie holiday may be worth considering if you're:

• spending a lot of money on your trip
• carrying expensive equipment, such as custom-made surfboards
• hiring a car, as some travel insurance can cover the damage excess .

Travel insurance policies that offer cruise cover will often (but not always) cover medical costs if you contract COVID-19. Some of these policies will also cover you if you need to cancel your trip due to COVID-19, or if a non-travelling relative in Australia has contracted COVID-19.

If you're going on a cruise, you'll usually have to pay an extra fee to add cruise cover to your travel insurance, or buy a separate cruise-specific policy. Cover for COVID-19 is restricted, so check your PDS for details.

Travel insurance policies have a 14-day cooling-off period (or longer). If you change your mind in this period, you can cancel your policy and get your money back from the insurer.

AFCA (the Australian Financial Complaints Authority) considers a credit or refund of your premium a fair outcome where:

• you got a refund or credit from all of your travel providers, so there's nothing left to claim on your travel insurance
• your travel insurance policy has a COVID-19-related exclusion that prevents you from claiming on the policy.

Ask your travel insurer what they can do for you.

Partial policy refunds

From the moment you buy a travel insurance policy, cover kicks in for cancellation due to unforeseen events. So if your insurer offers you a refund, they may calculate a partial refund to take into account the cover that you've already received with your policy. 

AFCA considers proportionate refunds for the remaining unused period fair, but your insurer should outline how they calculate it. 

Visit AFCA's website for more information on what they deem fair treatment from insurers when it comes to COVID-19 claims.

Read your travel insurance PDS. In the first instance, it's up to you as the policyholder to establish that you have a valid claim under the policy terms and conditions. That generally means handing in lots of documentation. 

Then it's up to the insurer to decide if your claim is valid and that there are no policy exclusions that should be applied. 

If you disagree with the insurer's decision regarding your claim, raise a complaint via their internal dispute resolution service. 

If you don't get a satisfactory result from the insurer's internal dispute resolution,  escalate your complaint to AFCA , which is the external ombudsman for the insurance industry.

The chance of experiencing a pandemic similar to COVID-19 in a lifetime is estimated to be 38%. Many travel insurance policies now cover COVID-19 to some extent, but not as many policies will cover future pandemics or epidemics other than COVID-19.

There are several policies that cover COVID-19 for medical expenses, but not other pandemics, and very few policies now cover cancellation expenses for pandemics that aren't COVID-19.

An  epidemic  is an outbreak of disease that happens in a wide geographic location and affects a lot of people. 

A  pandemic  is an epidemic that has spread throughout a whole country or across continents. 

Which travel insurers will cover pandemics or epidemics (other than COVID-19)?

Insurers such as Allianz, Travel Insurance Direct and Cover-More cover pandemics or epidemics for medical costs, but Travel Insurance Direct and Cover-More exclude cover for cancellation costs incurred due to a pandemic that isn't COVID-19. 

The table below shows which international travel insurance policies cover pandemic medical and cancellation costs if you're diagnosed with an illness that's classified as a pandemic or epidemic by the World Health Organisation while overseas. Bear in mind that if the pandemic or epidemic is classed as a 'known event' before you buy the policy, then cover will probably be excluded.

When an event becomes 'known' is a grey area, but generally it's when it's publicised in the media or on official government websites. So check the Smartraveller information for your destination before you go

* If the policyholder is diagnosed with a pandemic or epidemic illness.

** Excluding avian influenza.

Stock images:  Getty, unless otherwise stated.

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Overview of Travel Insurance Coverage

What does travel insurance cover, what does credit card travel insurance cover, what travel insurance coverage do you need to pay more for, choosing the right travel insurance, what does travel insurance cover frequently asked questions, understanding what travel insurance covers.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: Chase Freedom Flex℠. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

• Travel insurance is intended to cover risks and financial losses associated with traveling.
• Coverage can include trip cancellation, baggage protection, medical care, and emergency evacuation.
• When filing a claim, be specific and comprehensive in your documentation to ease the process.

Whether it's a trip across the world or a trip across the state, having travel insurance provides major relief if things go awry. Flight delays, lost baggage, illness, injuries, and other unforeseen events can disrupt even the best-laid plans. With a major disruption comes the potential for unanticipated expenses.

Travel insurance and the coverage it offers can help keep you protected and save you money in the long run.

Travel insurance policies protect travelers from financial losses should something go wrong during their trip. You can customize which coverages you want to include, and there are several to choose from.

"Common types of coverage include trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage protection, coverage for medical care if you get sick or hurt during your trip, and emergency medical evacuation," says Angela Borden, a travel insurance expert and product strategist for travel insurance company Seven Corners.

Travel insurance plans offer nonrefundable payments and other trip-related expenses. While monetary compensation is a primary benefit, there is another valuable perk of travel insurance. It can provide peace of mind.

Your specific travel insurance plan (and its terms and conditions) will determine the minutia and specifics of what is covered. As with most other forms of insurance, a general rule of thumb is the more you spend, the better your coverage.

"Travel insurance can be confusing, so it's best to research a reputable company that specializes in travel insurance and has a long history of successfully helping travelers all over the world," says Borden.

Trip cancellation and interruptions

A travel insurance policy can reimburse you for a prepaid, nonrefundable trip if it is canceled for a covered event, such as a natural disaster or a global pandemic.

Trip interruption insurance covers you if you're already on your trip and you get sick, there's a natural disaster, or something else happens. Make sure to check with your travel insurance providers to discuss any inclusions, coverage, and more.

Travel delays and missed connections

Travel delay insurance coverage provides reimbursement for any expenses you incur when you experience a delay in transit over a minimum time. Reimbursements can include hotels, airfare, food, and other related expenses.

Medical emergencies and evacuations

Typically, US healthcare plans are not accepted in other countries. So travel insurance with medical coverage can be particularly beneficial when you are abroad. Medical coverage can also help with locating doctors and healthcare facilities.

Medical transportation coverage will also pay for emergency evacuation expenses such as airlifts and medically-equipped flights back to the US. Out of pocket, these expenses can easily amount to tens of thousands of dollars. Certain plans may even transport you to a hospital of choice for care.

Travel insurance generally does not include coverage for pre-existing conditions. That said, you can obtain a pre-existing condition waiver, which we will talk about later.  

Baggage and personal belongings

Most airlines will reimburse travelers for lost or destroyed baggage, but be prepared for limitations. Travel insurance plans will typically cover stolen items, such as those stolen out of a hotel room. This may not include expensive jewelry, antiques, or heirloom items. Typically, airlines have a few days to recover your bag.

In the meantime, you can make a claim to pay for items like certain toiletries and other items you need to pick up. If your bag is truly lost or you don't get it for an extended period, you can file a true lost baggage claim.

A major perk on several travel credit cards is embedded credit card travel insurance . Typically, you will need to use the specific card for the transaction (at least with partial payment) for travel coverage to kick in.

Each card has specific rules on what exactly is covered. But one of the industry leaders is the $550-per-year Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card. Here's a snapshot of what is covered with this specific card:

• Baggage delay: up to $100 reimbursed per day for up to five days if a passenger carrier delays your baggage by more than six hours.
• Lost and damaged baggage: up to $3,000 per passenger per trip, but only up to $500 per passenger for jewelry and watches and up to $500 per passenger for cameras and other electronic equipment.
• Trip delay reimbursement: up to $500 per ticket if you're delayed more than six hours or require an overnight stay.
• Trip cancellation and interruption protection: up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Medical evacuation benefit: up to $100,000 for necessary emergency evacuation and transportation when on a trip of five to 60 days and traveling more than 100 miles from home.
• Travel accident insurance: accidental death or dismemberment coverage of up to $100,000 (up to $1,000,000 for common carrier travel).
• Emergency medical and dental benefits: up to $2,500 for medical expenses (subject to a $50 deductible) when on a trip arranged by a travel agency and traveling more than 100 miles from home.
• Rental car coverage: primary coverage for damages caused by theft or collision up to $75,000 on rentals of 31 days or fewer

More protections are included with cards with an annual fee, but there are exceptions. The no-annual-fee Chase Freedom Flex, for instance, includes up to $1,500 per person (and up to $6,000 per trip) in trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage.

However, there are some differences between credit card travel coverage and obtaining coverage from a third party.

"Credit card coverage does not typically provide travel medical benefits," Borden says. "For protection if you get sick or hurt while traveling, you'll want a travel insurance plan with medical coverage."

Whether you get your travel insurance in a standalone policy or through a credit card, it's important to review your plan details carefully. In either case, there may be exclusions and other requirements such as deadlines when filing a claim, Borden notes.

Knowing what travel insurance doesn't cover is as important as knowing what it does cover.

"Travelers should understand that travel insurance benefits come into play only if a covered reason occurs," Borden says. Most standard travel insurance plans won't reimburse you for the following:

Cancel for any reason (CFAR)

Cancel-for-any-reason travel insurance covers a trip cancellation for any reason, not just a covered event. your standard benefits won't kick in unless it's a covered event. For instance, you'll be reimbursed simply for changing your mind about taking a trip.

That said, CFAR travel insurance is not without its downsides. For one, it's more expensive than traditional insurance, and most CFAR policies will only reimburse you for a percentage of your travel expenses. Additionally, CFAR policies aren't available for annual travel insurance . 

You can find our guide on the best CFAR travel insurance here.

Foreseen weather events

Sudden storms or unforeseen weather events are typically covered by standard travel insurance plans. There are exceptions to be aware of. For example, an anticipated and named hurricane will not be covered.

Medical tourism

If you're going to travel internationally for a medical procedure or doctor's visit, your travel insurance plan will not cover the procedure itself. Most medical travel plans also won't cover you if something goes wrong with your procedure.

Pre-existing conditions and pregnancy

Those with specific pre-existing conditions, such as someone with diabetes and needing more insulin, will not be covered by most plans. In addition, pregnancy-related expenses will likely not be covered under most plans.

That said, you can obtain a pre-existing condition waiver for stable conditions. In order to obtain a wavier, you will need to purchase travel insurance within a certain time frame from when you booked your trip, usually two to three weeks, depending on your policy.

Extreme sports and activities

Accidents occurring while participating in extreme sports like skydiving and paragliding will typically not be covered under most plans. However, many plans offer the ability to upgrade to a higher-priced version with extended coverage.

Navigating claims and assistance

When a trip goes awry, the first thing you should do is document everything and be as specific as possible with documentation. This will make the claims process easier, as you can substantiate and quantify your financial losses due to the delay.

For example, your flight home has been delayed long enough to be covered under your policy, you'll want to keep any receipts from purchases made while waiting. For instances where your luggage is lost, you will need to file a report with local authorities and document all the items you packed.

Cancellation protection also requires meticulous attention to detail. If you're too sick to fly, you may need to see a doctor to prove your eligibility. If an airline cancels a flight, you'll also need to document any refunds you received as travel insurance isn't going to reimburse you for money you've already gotten back. 

Part of the benefit of CFAR insurance is the reduced paperwork necessary to file a claim. You'll still need to document your nonrefundable losses, but you won't have to substantiate why you're canceling a trip.

Each plan should be personalized to meet the insured party's needs. Some travelers prefer to stick to the bare minimum (flight cancellation benefits through the airline). Others want a comprehensive plan with every coverage possible. Before you buy anything, set your destination. Are there any travel restrictions or changes pending? Does your destination country require emergency or other medical coverage?

If the destination airport is known for lost or delayed luggage, travelers should keep important items in carry-ons. Lost or delayed luggage coverage protects insured parties in the event of a significant delay or total loss.

Second, check current credit card travel benefits to avoid redundancies. Savvy travelers don't need to pay for the same coverage twice.

Finally, consider your individual needs. Do you have a chronic medical condition, or do you feel safe with emergency-only medical coverage? Keep in mind, this does not include coverage for cosmetic surgery or other medical tourism. Do you have a budget limit for travel insurance? Asking and answering these important questions will help every traveler find the right product.

Most travel insurance plans are simple, and Business Insider's guide to the best travel insurance companies outlines our top picks. Remember, read your policy and its specifics closely to ensure it includes the items you need coverage for.

No one likes to dwell on how a trip might not go as planned before even leaving. However, at its core, travel insurance provides peace of mind as you go about your trip. While the upfront cost may seem significant, when you compare it to the potential expenses of a canceled flight, emergency evacuation, or a hefty medical bill, it's a small price to pay in the grand scheme of things.

Coverage for pandemics vary from policy to policy. Some travel insurance companies have specific provisions for pandemic-related cancellations, while others may exclude them entirely.

Sports injuries are often covered under travel insurance, but high-risk or adventure sports might require additional coverage or a special policy.

Travel advisories have different effects on your travel insurance depending on your policy. Traveling to a country already under travel advisory may invalidate your coverage, but if you're already traveling when a travel advisory is announced, you may be covered.

Travel insurance usually covers the cost of emergency medical evacuations to the nearest suitable medical facility, and sometimes back to your home country, if necessary.

Many travel insurance policies provide coverage for the cost of replacing lost or stolen passports during a trip.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Domestic Travel Insurance

15% off travel insurance for Medibank and ahm health members

Travel Insurance for Australia

Holidaying here this year? Even when you’re on your home turf flights can get cancelled, luggage can go missing and accidents can happen. With Medibank Domestic Travel Insurance you can enjoy your Aussie adventure knowing some of those mishaps are covered. 

Cover for COVID-19

We’ve added a number of benefits related to COVID-19 onto our domestic and international policies. Including cover for overseas medical costs if you are diagnosed whilst travelling.

Cancellation costs

Expense cover for accommodation and other prepaid costs if you have to cancel due to certain unforeseen circumstances such as a family emergency. 1

Rental car insurance excess

Sometimes, the excess on your rental car can be, well excessive. Our Domestic Travel policy provides covers for your rental car excess if you have an accident. 

Cover for luggage and personal effects

Includes cover for lost, stolen or damaged valuables such as luggage, laptops, cameras and certain personal items. 2

Multi-award winning travel insurance

We're proud to be winners of Mozo's Experts Choice awards in 2022 & 2023 and Canstar's 2023 Most Satisfied Customer - Travel Insurance award.

What cover do I have in Australia?

Even within Aussie shores, luggage can go missing, flights get cancelled and rental car fenders can get bent.  With Medibank Domestic Travel Insurance, you'll have cover for the new situations and some cancellation costs.

For full terms and conditions, limitations and exclusions, please read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)

COVID-19 Travel Insurance Benefits and inclusions

Whether you're planning a trip within Australia, or heading overseas, our COVID-19 travel insurance benefits can help you relax and enjoy your much needed break. 

Domestic Cruise Travel Insurance

If you’re travelling on a multi-night cruise that takes you from one Australian port to another, then you’ll be leaving Australian coastal waters. This means that you’ll need to purchase an International Plan and add Cruise Cover to receive benefits payable under the policy.

Simply enter your destination as “Domestic Cruise” and select “Yes” to Cruise Cover when building your travel insurance quote.

Learn more about cruise insurance

Domestic travel insurance FAQs

What is travel insurance for domestic travel.

Medibank's Domestic Comprehensive Travel Insurance policy covers a range of unexpected hiccups during your Australian adventure. It includes benefits such as cancellation and amendment fees, missed connections, theft, loss and damage of luggage, and rental car insurance excess - this even includes a bonus cover for the insurance excess on your personal vehicle. We also offer  COVID-19 benefits  for a range of situations such as COVID impacting your accommodation and pre-paid activities, so you can book your travel at ease.

Please read the combined  PDS/FSG  for further information on coverage and exclusions.

Why aren't medical expenses covered for domestic travel cover?

Medibank does not cover medical expenses for domestic travel to help limit over-insurance for our customers. While traveling domestically, Australian citizens and permanent residents can use Medicare or private health insurance to access medical treatments. Visa holders who are allowed to live, work or study in Australia would be able to use OVHC/OWHC/OSHC cover to access medical treatments.

Things you should know

1  Conditions apply to cancellation cover. Only applies to the International Comprehensive and Domestic policies. 

2  Item limits apply. See the  Combined FSG/PDS  for more information.

3  Limits apply. See the  Combined FSG/PDS  for more information.

4  Maximum liability collectively for sections Loss of Income, Personal Liability and Accidental Death is $10,000 on the Domestic Plan and $25,000 on the International Comprehensive Plan. Limits will be shown on the Certificate of Insurance.

Limits, sub-limits, exclusions and conditions apply. This is general advice only. Medibank Private Limited, ABN 47 080 890 259, an Authorised Representative, AR 286089, of Travel Insurance Partners Pty Limited, ABN 73 144 049 230 AFSL 360138 arranges the insurance on behalf of the insurer. The insurer is Zurich Australian Insurance Limited ABN 13 000 296 640, AFSL 232507. Please consider your own needs and the  Combined FSG/PDS  to decide if this product is right for you. For information on the Target Market and  Target Market Determinations , visit  medibank.com.au/travel-insurance/help/

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Complete this form to express your interest in one of our programs. If you're eligible, a member of our team will call you within 2-3 business days.

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Sorry, only members with current Hospital cover are eligible to participate in these programs

Eligible Medibank members with Extras cover are able to access a range of telehealth services included on their cover - you can find out more here . Alternatively, if you would like to talk to one of our team about your cover, we're here on 132 331 .

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By clicking Submit, I understand that Medibank or its subsidiaries may contact me to discuss my eligibility for the Covid-19 Heath Assist program(s), and will disclose my personal information within the Medibank Group of companies and to third party service providers. Please see Medibank’s privacy policy for further information about how Medibank will handle my personal information, and how to contact Medibank: https://www.medibank.com.au/privacy/

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If you are eligible, one of our health professionals will call you in 2-3 business days to discuss your situation and help to enrol you in the relevant program.

There is no cost to participate, however some referred services may incur an out of pocket cost.