Australian Travellers at Risk: Uninsured Travel on the Rise
Wednesday, 6 December 2023
A recent survey has shed light on a concerning trend among Australians – a significant number of people are embarking on overseas trips without adequate travel insurance, putting themselves at risk. The survey, conducted by Quantum Market Research on behalf of the Insurance Council of Australia and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller, reveals some alarming statistics.
Younger Travellers: A Risky Proposition
The survey of 1000 travellers uncovered that one in six Australians (16%) did not have any form of travel insurance on their last overseas trip. What’s even more worrying is that among those aged under 30, a staggering 60% admitted they would consider traveling without insurance in the future. This lack of coverage among younger travellers is a cause for concern.
Overconfidence and Ignorance: A Dangerous Combination
Even among those who do have travel insurance, the survey found that many are overconfident about their coverage and fail to read their policy documents thoroughly. Shockingly, only 19% of insured travellers claimed to have spent time reading every detail of their product disclosure statement (PDS) before embarking on their journey. This lack of awareness can lead to unpleasant surprises in case of emergencies.
Financial Constraints and Rising Costs
The survey also revealed that 15% of recent travellers who went without insurance did so because they couldn’t afford it. Additionally, a concerning 34% of respondents stated that they would consider traveling without insurance to save money due to the rising cost of travel. These financial constraints are driving some Australians to take unnecessary risks.
Key Survey Findings:
- One in six (16%) Australians were not covered by any form of travel insurance on their last overseas trip.
- Younger travellers (aged under 30) were most likely to travel without insurance (60%).
- Even among insured travellers, many are overconfident about their coverage and have not properly read their policy documents (19%).
- The rising cost of travel is prompting more Australians to travel without insurance or to take risks that may not be covered (34%).
- The majority (86%) of travellers will find ways to keep costs down while traveling, which may increase their exposure to risk.
Expert Opinion: Andrew Hall, CEO of the Insurance Council of Australia
“These findings are concerning, as they suggest that a significant number of Australians are putting themselves at risk by traveling without considering potential health and safety risks or purchasing travel insurance. It’s crucial to understand that once you leave the country, the public health system and other amenities we take for granted in Australia may not be accessible or free. Personal responsibility plays a vital role in travel planning, and it’s important to thoroughly read your policy details to ensure you are adequately covered. Travel insurance is as essential as your passport, providing valuable protection in case of unexpected events such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, or flight cancellations. As we approach the holiday season, we urge all Australians to prioritize proper travel insurance and be aware of the risks they are taking.”
Conclusion: Prioritize Your Safety
As the survey highlights the concerning trend of uninsured travel among Australians, it serves as a wake-up call for all travellers. It is crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being by obtaining comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on any overseas journey. Don’t underestimate the importance of reading your policy documents thoroughly to understand the extent of your coverage. Remember, travel insurance is your safety net, providing valuable protection against unforeseen circumstances. Let’s make informed choices and ensure our adventures are not marred by unnecessary risks.
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
