Embark with confidence: RACV highlights importance of travel insurance

Before you set off on your next adventure, RACV reminds travellers of the crucial step in planning any trip: securing travel insurance. Travel insurance can offer a sense of security and reassurance, helping you enjoy your journey with added peace of mind. It’s an option worth considering for many travellers. 

RACV Travel Insurance Manager Judith Gamble said it’s important to consider purchasing travel insurance to help manage the financial impact of unexpected events. 

“Many people book their holidays and then insurance is often forgotten about or an afterthought. RACV is encouraging everyone to consider purchasing travel insurance at the same time you book your travel, to help manage potential financial costs when unforeseen events occur,” Ms Gamble said.

“Having cover in place when you have paid for your trip should also cover any cancellation fees if you need to cancel due to an unexpected insured event.”  

RACV said there are some exclusions to travel insurance that you should be aware of when choosing a policy. 

“Some of the exclusions to travel insurance cover may come as a surprise to people and COVID-19 is a good example, as some less expensive travel insurance may not cover you if you contract COVID-19 overseas,” Ms Gamble said.  

“RACV encourages everyone to read their policies to make sure they are informed and understand what the appropriate policy is for their circumstances.”  

According to a 2024 survey from the Insurance Council of Australia, 87 per cent of travellers purchased travel insurance for their last overseas trip, but 93 per cent of Australians were either unaware or unsure of at least one common travel insurance exclusion.  

Around half of travellers felt frustrated, with difficulty understanding policies (55 per cent) or choosing the best one (51 per cent). 

Your cover depends on the policy you purchase, but you may not be covered if something goes wrong while you are:  

• breaking the law 
• under the influence of drugs or excessive alcohol
• riding a motorcycle without a current Australian motorcycle licence 
• seeking medical treatment including cosmetic procedures, body piercing, or tattooing
• travelling to a destination where the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has issued a ‘Do Not Travel’ status.  Check the Smart Traveller website for more information.

It is especially important to carefully read the policy documents before you make your purchase and think carefully about the activities you have planned for your holiday. A good rule of thumb is to take reasonable care, and not put yourself in a situation where a reasonable person could foresee that an insurance claim might happen.  

“At RACV, we understand that travel plans can vary greatly. That’s why we offer a range of policy options designed to fit different travel needs, so you can choose the coverage that suits your trip,” Ms Gamble said. 

RACV travel insurance provides options for international, domestic, and annual travellers, as well as specific policies for cruises and rental car excess cover. Depending on the plan type, travel insurance offers coverage that may help manage unforeseen expenses and complications that may arise while you're away from home.  

“You can call us with any questions you have about your travel plans or drop in to one of our RACV retail stores and ask our friendly team to help. Also, don’t forget to visit racv.com.au if you require an International Driving Permit.” 

For more information, visit racv.com.au/insurance/travel-insurance.