Indonesia Tops the List for Australian Travellers
According to Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI), Indonesia has emerged as the top destination for Australian travellers, accounting for 17% of all policies sold in 2023. However, it’s important to note that travelling to Indonesia is not all about yoga and beach time. SCTI has revealed that the average claim costs have increased by 44% compared to pre-pandemic travel in 2019, reaching $1,017 in 2023. Among Aussie travellers going to Indonesia, the most common claims are for medical treatment related to Bali belly (24%), followed by lost phones (10%).
Other Claims and Monkey-Associated Incidents
In addition to medical treatment and lost phones, there have been other interesting claims made by Australian travellers in Indonesia. Requests for coverage of reef and surfing cuts, as well as monkey-associated incidents, have also been reported. Surprisingly, over the past five years, SCTI has paid almost $17,000 in claims to Australian travellers who had their belongings stolen by monkeys in Bali.
Tips for Easy Travel Insurance Claims
Jo McCauley, CEO of SCTI, advises travellers to keep a few things in mind to make claiming on their travel insurance easier. Firstly, any lost or stolen items must be reported to the police immediately, as a written report is often required for claims to be paid. For lost or stolen mobile phones, it is essential to block the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number by contacting the service provider and providing proof of this action. McCauley recommends keeping a record of the IMEI number for easy access in case of loss or theft. Lastly, travellers should take reasonable care with the safety and security of their belongings, especially in public places, to avoid being unable to claim for losses.
Indonesia’s Popularity and Insurance Sales
Southern Cross Travel Insurance has seen a significant increase in policy sales for trips to Indonesia, with a 38% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels. Indonesia is proving to be the most popular destination among Australian travellers, accounting for 17% of policies sold in 2023. However, it is worth noting that the average insurance claim cost for Indonesia has risen by 44% since 2019, reaching $1,017 in 2023.
Conclusion
Australian travel insurance claims for Indonesia have slightly increased by 1% in 2023 compared to the same period in 2019. Southern Cross Travel Insurance has experienced a 38% increase in policy sales during this period. Jo McCauley emphasizes the importance of purchasing travel insurance before departing to ensure coverage and protection. With affordable options starting from as little as $87.52 for Medical Only cover or $139.56 for International Comprehensive cover, it is crucial for travellers to prioritize their safety and peace of mind.
Quote from Jo McCauley, CEO of SCTI:
“Indonesia has always been a popular destination among Aussies, and our data reveals that even more of them are choosing SCTI to cover their trips – even though the latest insights we have available indicate that traveller volumes are still yet to hit pre-pandemic levels.”
Author’s Conclusion:
Indonesia continues to captivate Australian travellers as the top destination, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. While the average claim costs have increased, it is reassuring to know that Southern Cross Travel Insurance is there to provide coverage and support. By following simple steps, such as reporting losses to the police and taking precautions with personal belongings, travellers can ensure a smoother claims process. With the popularity of Indonesia on the rise, it is essential for Aussies to prioritize travel insurance to safeguard their trips and enjoy a worry-free holiday.
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.
