Damien Arthur, Executive Head of Travel at Allianz Partners Australia, expressed concern over the misconceptions held by some travellers. Many believe that if a destination is perceived as safe, insurance becomes unnecessary. However, unforeseen events such as accidents, medical emergencies, or travel disruptions can occur anywhere, leading to significant financial burdens if one is uninsured.
The survey further revealed that younger travellers and those born overseas are more likely to forgo travel insurance. Additionally, individuals visiting friends or relatives, or returning to their home country, often skip coverage, assuming familiarity with the destination negates the need for insurance. This assumption overlooks potential risks and the high costs associated with medical care or emergency services abroad.
Allianz Partners emphasises that even in destinations considered safe, unexpected incidents can result in substantial expenses. For instance, medical emergencies in countries like Japan can lead to claims worth tens of thousands of dollars, covering hospital care, extended accommodation, and repatriation.
To mitigate these risks, travellers are encouraged to invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers a wide range of potential issues, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Being adequately insured ensures peace of mind and financial protection, allowing travellers to fully enjoy their journeys without undue worry.
