Key takeaways
- Medical cover is the most important component overseas.
- US, Japan, and Europe have high healthcare costs — check limits.
- Emergency evacuation can cost $100,000+ without insurance.
Medical emergencies abroad are the main reason travel insurance exists. Understanding cover limits and exclusions before you fly prevents devastating bills.
On this page
Medical cover limits
Policies offer capped medical cover (e.g. $5 million) or unlimited. For US travel, higher limits are prudent. Check whether hospital cash, dental emergency, and outpatient visits are included.
Emergency evacuation
Medical evacuation to Australia or nearest suitable hospital can exceed $100,000. Confirm evacuation is included and whether you choose the provider or the insurer does.
Making a medical claim
Contact the insurer's emergency assistance line before non-emergency treatment where possible. Keep all receipts, medical reports, and correspondence. Pay-and-claim policies require upfront payment then reimbursement.
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
Overseas medical cover — RHCA agreements, evacuation, limits, and how to use assistance lines.
Does RHCA with the UK mean I do not need medical cover when visiting?
No. The RHCA gives access to medically necessary public NHS treatment but excludes many services, dental, optical, and all medical evacuation costs. Travel insurance for the UK should still include overseas medical cover, though the risk profile is lower than for countries without RHCA agreements.
What should I do if I need emergency medical treatment overseas?
Call your insurer's 24-hour emergency assistance line immediately or as soon as practically possible. Carry the number on your phone and in your wallet. The assistance line can help coordinate treatment, provide guarantees of payment to hospitals, and arrange evacuation if needed. Unauthorised treatment may affect your claim.
Is unlimited medical cover always better than a high cap?
Unlimited medical cover provides the most comprehensive protection and should be the standard for international travel policies. A $5 million cap is likely sufficient for most scenarios but may not cover the most extreme multi-event or long-term hospitalisation situations. Unlimited cover is increasingly available at minimal premium difference.
Will travel insurance cover me if I am pregnant?
Most policies cover medical complications of pregnancy up to 24 weeks' gestation. After 24 weeks, cover is usually restricted or excluded. Planned pregnancy-related care (prenatal visits, normal delivery) is generally excluded from all policies. Confirm gestational limits with the insurer before travel.