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 5 December 2025 Important disclosures
  • International Comprehensive Travel Insurance
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    Yes
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    Unlimited

    Medibank’s International Comprehensive Travel Insurance covers overseas medical expenses, trip cancellations, and up to $3,000 travel delay expenses. You’ll have 24/7 emergency medical assistance and you’ll also be protected for lost or stolen luggage, rental car excess, personal liability, loss of income and more. For an additional premium you can add cover for cruises, snow sports and high value items. (T&Cs, sub-limits, limits & exclusions apply to travel insurance. See website for details).

    Details
  • Mozo Expert Choice Badge
    International Travel Insurance
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    Yes
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    $3,000 limit per policy with option to increase limit

    Receive protection in a few simple steps, all from your mobile device, with 24/7 emergency and medical support, as well as 24/7 customer service. You can also tailor your policy, paying only for the coverage you need and adapting it in near real-time, with add-ons like car rental excess and snow sports also available. You can also get 15% off with promo code MOZO15. For groups of three or more adults traveling on the same policy Freely offers a 20% discount. T&Cs apply; visit the Freely site for full details.

    Details
  • International Comprehensive Travel Insurance
    covid medical cover
    Yes
    covid cancellation cover
    Yes
    overseas hospital
    Unlimited
    cancellation cover
    Choose $3,000 to Unlimited

    ahm Travel Insurance covers overseas medical and hospital expenses. Comprehensive policies include $3,000 cancellation cover with the option to increase the cover up to unlimited, and up to $2,000 travel delay expenses. Also included is cover for lost or stolen luggage, rental car excess and personal liability. For an additional cost, you can also add optional cover for high-value items and motorcycle/moped riding. Kids under the age of 18 can be added to the policy at no extra cost. (T&Cs, sub-limits, limits & exclusions apply to travel insurance. See website for details).

    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.

    Details

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