Travel Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Survey Highlights Alarming Number of Australians Travelling Uninsured

Understanding the Risks of Overseas Travel Without Insurance

Survey Highlights Alarming Number of Australians Travelling Uninsured?w=400

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

Recent research conducted by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has unveiled a concerning trend: approximately 14% of Australian travellers embark on international journeys without any form of travel insurance.
This statistic has prompted industry leaders to urge Australians to reconsider the importance of securing adequate coverage before travelling abroad.

The survey, which included 1,001 participants, revealed that younger travellers are particularly at risk, with 23% of those under 30 admitting to travelling uninsured. Among those who chose not to purchase insurance, 31% believed their destination was safe enough to forgo coverage, 27% considered insurance to be poor value, and 22% felt confident in handling emergencies themselves.

Damien Arthur, Executive Head of Travel at Allianz Partners Australia, expressed concern over these findings, emphasizing that unforeseen events can occur regardless of a destination's perceived safety. He highlighted that medical emergencies, accidents, and travel disruptions can lead to significant financial burdens for uninsured travellers.

To mitigate these risks, travellers are encouraged to assess their individual needs and select insurance policies that offer comprehensive coverage tailored to their specific circumstances. This proactive approach ensures protection against potential financial hardships resulting from unexpected incidents during travel.

For more information on choosing the right travel insurance, consumers can visit the ICA's website or consult with reputable insurance providers to explore suitable options.

Published:Wednesday, 4th Mar 2026
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Rate this article

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.

Insurance News

What Airline Strike Disruptions Mean for Travel Insurance
What Airline Strike Disruptions Mean for Travel Insurance
16 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori
Renewed attention on airline and airport industrial action overseas is a timely reminder for Australian travellers to look closely at how their travel insurance responds when transport plans unravel. Strikes can affect flights, baggage handling, airport security, public transport connections and tour schedules, turning a carefully planned itinerary into a costly scramble for new accommodation, meals and replacement bookings. - read more
Why Skipping Travel Insurance Can Be a Costly Saving
Why Skipping Travel Insurance Can Be a Costly Saving
09 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent consumer reporting has again highlighted a familiar travel risk: some Australians are looking for savings by travelling without insurance, or by choosing the cheapest cover without checking whether it suits the trip. With airfares, accommodation and day-to-day holiday costs still stretching household budgets, it is understandable that travellers are scrutinising every expense. The problem is that travel insurance is often treated as optional until something goes wrong. - read more
Scooter Accidents Put Travel Insurance Fine Print Back in Focus
Scooter Accidents Put Travel Insurance Fine Print Back in Focus
02 Sep 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent consumer attention on scooter and moped accidents overseas has highlighted a travel risk many Australians underestimate until something goes wrong. Hiring a scooter in Bali, Thailand, Vietnam or parts of Europe can feel like a simple holiday convenience, but insurers may treat it very differently from catching a taxi or joining a tour. - read more
Why US Trips Deserve a Careful Travel Insurance Check
Why US Trips Deserve a Careful Travel Insurance Check
26 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori
Fresh consumer attention on travel to the United States has again highlighted one of the clearest reasons Australians buy travel insurance: overseas medical costs can be severe, and the US is a destination where even a short hospital visit may become financially stressful. For travellers planning holidays, business trips, cruises that call at US ports, or family visits, the issue is less about whether to buy cover and more about whether the policy is strong enough for the trip. - read more
Why Card-Included Travel Insurance Needs a Closer Look
Why Card-Included Travel Insurance Needs a Closer Look
19 Aug 2026: Paige Estritori
Recent consumer attention on complimentary credit card travel insurance is a timely reminder that 'included' does not always mean automatic, comprehensive or suitable for every trip. For many Australians, card-linked cover can be a useful benefit, particularly where it is backed by a reputable insurer and activated correctly. The risk is assuming it works like a standalone policy without checking the fine print. - read more


Travel Insurance Articles

Maximising Your Travel Budget: Tips for Australian Families
Maximising Your Travel Budget: Tips for Australian Families
Travel plays a significant role in family bonding. There's nothing quite like exploring new places together, creating lasting memories, and experiencing adventures that will be talked about for years to come. - read more
How to Avoid Common Pitfalls When Filing a Travel Insurance Claim
How to Avoid Common Pitfalls When Filing a Travel Insurance Claim
Travelling is an exciting adventure, but it comes with its own set of uncertainties. That's where travel insurance steps in, offering peace of mind by covering unforeseen expenses and emergencies. However, filing a travel insurance claim can sometimes be a daunting process. - read more
Cut Costs, Not Experiences: How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Australian Road Trip
Cut Costs, Not Experiences: How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Australian Road Trip
Australian landscapes are a canvas of breathtaking vistas, and road tripping offers an intimate brush with this vast, picturesque continent. The allure of the open road, the freedom to explore quirky roadside attractions, and the opportunity to discover secluded spots creates an excitement unique to this mode of travel. - read more
Visa-Free Travel for Australians: A Look at Some Exciting Destinations
Visa-Free Travel for Australians: A Look at Some Exciting Destinations
Travelling is one of life’s great joys, and for Australians, visa-free travel opens up a world of opportunities. The convenience and freedom that come with not needing a visa cannot be overstated. With just your passport in hand, you can explore countless destinations without the hassle of paperwork. This kind of travel liberty offers a spontaneous, exhilarating experience, allowing you to book a last-minute trip without worrying about securing a visa beforehand. - read more
From Flight Cancellations to Lost Luggage: Why Travel Insurance is Crucial
From Flight Cancellations to Lost Luggage: Why Travel Insurance is Crucial
Picture this: You're all set for your dream vacation. Suitcases packed, tickets in hand, and the excitement building. But then, an unexpected disappointment hits. Your flight is cancelled. Suddenly, your well-laid plans are thrown into disarray. - read more

Knowledgebase
Claim Adjuster:
An insurance professional who investigates and evaluates insurance claims to determine the amount the insurance company should pay.