2023 holiday insurance guide: tackling new trends and tech

It's not just beach days and backyard cricket this year, as the 2023 holiday season has decided to throw us a few curveballs. Rising global tensions, increased volcanic activity, the threat of cyber crime throwing a spanner in our online shopping…this year, the holidays are shaping up to be a mix of traditional Aussie spirit with a splash of 2023 reality.

With all this going on, it’s time to add a few new items to our holiday checklist - like smart tech for a safe home and travel insurance that covers more than just lost luggage.

To help you prepare, we’re here to guide you through this year’s latest trends and challenges. So let’s dive in and discover how you can make your 2023 holiday season a real cracker!

Smart home technology: Beyond security

After a brief respite during the lockdowns, home break-ins are unfortunately making an unwelcome comeback in 2023 according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. So if you're planning to head out for the holidays, now's the time to think about beefing up your home security.

Recent advancements in home security tech make securing your home easier than ever, and may even lead to savings on your home insurance. Let’s look at some of 2023’s coolest offerings:

• AI-enhanced security cameras. These nifty devices use artificial intelligence to tell the difference between normal and unusual activities, giving you more accurate alerts when something's not right.
• Smart leak detectors. These devices use sensors that spot water leaks early, helping to stop serious water damage. And insurers hate water damage almost as much as you do.
• Advanced fire detection systems. These aren’t your nanna’s smoke detectors. Apart from merely sniffing out smoke, they can ID potential fire hazards early, like unusual increases in temperature.
• Predictive home maintenance monitors. These monitors keep an eye on your home's upkeep needs, and can alert you to potential problems like plumbing or electrical issues. 

Insurance companies love this stuff since a secure home means less risk. So if you kit out your home with better home security, you’re not only protecting your humble abode, but you may just shave a few bucks off your home insurance premium.

The Surge in Domestic Travel 

Domestic getaways are back on the rise, as highlighted by Tourism Research Australia. Whether it’s because of post-pandemic freedom or a hesitation to travel overseas, the data speaks for itself.

If you’re planning a holiday here in Oz, remember that it's not just the overseas adventures that can benefit from some protection. Here are three types of insurance you should keep your eye on, if you want to make your domestic excursion stress-free:

• Domestic travel insurance. Yep, it’s not just for globe-trotting. This covers those unexpected events like cancellations or theft right in our own backyard.
• Car rental coverage. If you get into a bingle, you want to ensure you’re not on the hook for full damages to your hire car. Check if your car insurance extends to rentals, and if not, consider the rental company's damage waiver for extra peace of mind.
• Home Insurance. Before you depart, you’ll want to ensure your home insurance is up to scratch. It’s especially important when your home is unattended and more vulnerable to incidents like break-ins.

International travel in an unpredictable world

Travelling abroad in 2023 comes with its own set of challenges, making travel insurance an important part of your planning. 

The world is seeing its fair share of conflicts and natural events like volcanic eruptions, which can impact travel plans unexpectedly. Here's a breakdown of what to keep in mind for your international travel insurance:

• Coverage for unforeseen cancellations. Check your policy carefully. Important events like wars or natural disasters might not be covered if they were ‘known events’ when you purchased the insurance.
• Flexibility in case of disruptions. A policy that can adjust to sudden changes can save a lot of headaches, whether it’s a last-minute political upheaval or an unexpected natural event.
• Regular updates from your insurance provider. As situations around the world change, it's important to be up-to-date with your coverage.

Choosing the right international travel insurance in 2023 is all about being ready for those ‘just in case’ scenarios, ensuring you can enjoy your overseas journey without the unnecessary headache.

Holiday shopping in the digital age

As we deck the halls for the 2023 holiday season, our shopping is going more and more digital. This isn't just about snagging the best deals from the comfort of our homes; it's also about browsing smartly to protect our holiday purchases. 

So, as you fill up your virtual shopping cart, here are a few savvy tips to keep you and your purchases safe:

• Your credit card’s more than just for spending. It's got perks like protection for your online buys. Check out what your card offers against fraud or if something turns up looking nothing like the picture.
• Protect yourself against online tricksters. With more folks shopping online, scams are on the rise. Your credit card probably has some solid features to guard against fraud. Also, secure networks and extra verification steps, like two-factor authentication, are smart plays.
• Package theft – a real concern. Home insurance might not always have your back for parcels left in the open. Coverage often depends on items being in secure areas like locked garages, and there usually needs to be evidence of forced entry. To keep your deliveries safe, consider requiring a signature or opting for pickup from a secure depot.

With these savvy tips in your back pocket, you're all set for a hassle-free online shopping spree this holiday season. A little bit of caution can go a long way!

Bottom line - holiday planning pays

As the 2023 holiday season kicks off, there’s a bit more on our plates than just planning the festivities. It's about staying sharp with our home and digital security, and getting savvy with our insurance – whether that's for a local getaway, an overseas trip, or our online shopping marathons. By being clued-up and proactive in these areas, we can really smooth out the holiday experience and make 2023 truly memorable for all the right reasons.

If you're looking to top-notch travel insurance for holidays 2023, be sure to look over some of the top offerings below.