Don’t go overseas without it: why travel insurance is essential this winter holiday season

Women on scooters in Bali

As winter sets in, Australians are embracing the opportunity to travel abroad, seeking warmer climates or snowy adventures. The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ (ABS) latest overseas arrivals and departures data revealed that Aussies took more than one million short-term trips in April 2025 – up 8.3% compared to the same period the previous year.

While the excitement of jetting off to new international destinations is enticing, it's crucial not to overlook travel insurance. Despite the ease of obtaining coverage online, policies must be purchased before departing Australia.

Mozo's 2025 Travel Insurance Report 2025 found more than one in ten (13%) Australians still travel uninsured, risking substantial out-of-pocket expenses. Mozo money expert Rachel Wastell notes that basic travel insurance can cost less than $20 per day for adults under the age of 75 without pre-existing conditions. 

“While most of us would prefer to spend our money on a pina colada, it really is a small price to pay for peace of mind,” Wastell said.

Bali remains one of the most popular holiday destinations, but it also comes with risks. Data from Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) shows that since the 2022/23 summer season, policy purchases for travel to Bali have jumped by more than two thirds (43%). That spike in demand has also seen a 50% year-on-year increase in claims, with incidents in Bali accounting for 16% of all claims lodged with the insurer in 2024.

Even if you're in the departure lounge, it's not too late to secure travel insurance. Many providers offer instant online policies, ensuring you're covered before takeoff. Just remember: once you've left Australia, it's too late to purchase a policy.

As you prepare for your winter getaway, make travel insurance a priority. It's a small investment for significant peace of mind.

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Last updated 24 June 2025 Important disclosures
  • Mozo Expert Choice Badge
    International Travel Insurance
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    Yes
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    $5,000 limit per policy with option to increase limit

    Get protection in a few simple steps with Freely travel insurance all in the palm of your hand. Freely Travel offers 24/7 emergency and medical support, 24/7 customer service. Plus, you can tailor your policy so you only pay for what you need, and adapt your cover in near real time. Add-ons such as car rental excess, snow sports or other activities also available. Receive 10% off your travel insurance policy with promo code: MOZO2025. T&Cs apply, go to site for full detail.

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  • Mozo Expert Choice Badge
    Gold Plus
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    Yes
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    Choose $0 or Unlimited

    Specialist Travel Insurance for those with pre-existing medical conditions (T&Cs apply). No upper age limits. Unlimited medical cover available with 24/7 emergency medical helpline. Unlimited cancellation cover available. Fast online quote process.

    Details
  • Comprehensive
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    No
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    Choose $0 to Unlimited

    Australia Post International Comprehensive Travel Insurance covers overseas medical expenses, cancellation costs and more (T&Cs apply). Optional extras like cover for existing medical conditions and winter sports available. 24/7 emergency support. Get a quote in minutes. Reduce your premium with variable excess. Policies may not be available to all travellers. Australian Postal Corporation ABN 28 864 970 579 (AR No 338646) is the distributor of Australia Post Travel Insurance.

    Details
  • Comprehensive
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    Yes
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    Choose from $2,000 up to $100,000

    Enjoy unlimited medical cover and 24/7 emergency assistance services when you travel. Get unlimited cover for cancellation fees and prepaid travel expenses. Cover for luggage and travel documents. $5,000,000 personal liability cover.

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  • Standard
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    Yes
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    Choose up to $20,000

    Have direct access to our 24/7 Emergency Assistance. COVID-19 cover if you’re diagnosed on your trip (T&Cs apply). Hospital cash allowance. Cover for accidental death and permanent disability. Luggage and personal belongings cover. Optional extras available.

    Details

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