Planning a holiday should feel exciting and not stressful, but with so many options out there, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Here are some things you should consider before getting travel insurance.
Check age limits and senior-friendly providers
Some insurers set upper age limits, while others adjust premiums based on age brackets (for example: 60–69, 70–79, 80+). Before comparing prices or benefits, make sure the insurer actually covers your age group.
Many Australian providers offer dedicated “senior travel insurance” options with wider medical coverage and higher benefit limits. These can be worth prioritising, especially for longer trips or destinations where healthcare is expensive, such as the USA or Japan.
Prioritise medical coverage
Medical care overseas can be extremely costly, and for older travellers this is the single most important part of any policy. When comparing options, consider:
- Emergency medical and hospital cover (look for high limits or unlimited cover)
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- Cover for mobility aids or medical equipment
- Daily hospital cash allowances, which can help with out-of-pocket costs
Review pre-existing medical conditions
Most seniors have at least one condition to declare, whether it’s blood pressure, arthritis, cholesterol, or a past surgery. Insurers differ greatly in how they handle pre-existing conditions:
- Some cover common conditions automatically.
- Some require a medical assessment or questionnaire.
- Others charge an additional premium or simply exclude certain conditions.
Always declare everything, even if you think it’s minor. Declaring upfront prevents surprises if you need to make a claim later.
Compare cancellation and delay cover
Mature travellers often book well in advance, especially for cruises and long-haul trips. Strong cancellation cover is essential, particularly if you’re paying thousands for flights or accommodation.
Look for cover that includes:
- illness or injury before you leave
- unexpected family emergencies
- delays due to weather or airline issues
If you travel frequently, an annual multi-trip policy can be cheaper and easier than buying each trip separately.
Consider your destination and style of travel
Not all policies suit all trips. For example:
- Driving holidays may require rental car excess cover.
- Walking tours or active holidays may need adventure cover.
- Domestic trips may still require cancellation and luggage insurance.
Think about what you’ll actually do on your trip, then choose a policy that matches.
Check the fine print
Make sure to look at:
- Excess amounts
- Exclusions
- Claim limits
- Whether cover starts at purchase or departure
If the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) feels overwhelming, ask someone you trust to read it with you, or call the insurer directly. Reputable insurers will walk you through the details in plain language.
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