Key takeaways
- Match destination, activities, and trip value across quotes.
- Compare medical limits, excess, and pre-existing condition rules.
- Read cruise and adventure sports exclusions if applicable.
Travel insurance policies look similar until you need to claim. Here is how to compare them properly before your next trip.
On this page
Match your trip profile
Destination risk (medical costs), trip length, total prepaid value, planned activities (skiing, scuba, cruising), and travellers' ages all affect price and eligibility.
| Cover type | Single trip | Annual multi-trip |
|---|---|---|
| Medical emergencies overseas | ||
| Trip cancellation | ||
| Lost or stolen luggage | ||
| Multiple trips per year | ||
| Flexible trip dates | Varies | |
| Cost for 1–2 trips/year | ||
| Cost for 3+ trips/year |
Annual policies suit frequent travellers. Single-trip cover is usually better value for one holiday. Read maximum trip length limits on annual policies.
Features to compare
- Overseas medical limit (unlimited vs capped)
- Cancellation limit vs your prepaid costs
- Luggage and personal effects sub-limits
- Excess per claim and per section
- Pre-existing condition coverage
Common mistakes
Buying cheapest without checking medical limits. Not declaring pre-existing conditions. Assuming credit card cover is sufficient for high-risk destinations.
Tip
General information only — not personal financial advice. Consider your own circumstances and read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before purchasing any policy. Moneyhero may earn referral fees from some providers when you switch through us; this does not change how results are ordered. How we compare
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about comparing in this category — what affects prices, how switching works, and how to read product documents before you decide.
What is the most important travel insurance cover?
Overseas medical cover — hospital bills abroad can be extremely expensive, especially in the US.
Should I buy travel insurance when booking flights?
Yes. Buying early maximises cancellation cover and ensures you are covered if circumstances change before departure.
How do I compare policies for adventure activities?
Check whether skiing, scuba, cruising, or other activities are included or require an add-on. Standard policies often exclude adventure sports.
Does annual cover work for long trips?
Annual policies cap days per trip — commonly 30–60 days. Longer trips need single-trip cover or a specialist annual policy.