Damien Arthur, Executive Head of Travel at Allianz Partners Australia, expressed concern over the misconceptions leading travellers to forgo insurance. Many believe that travelling to perceived 'safe' destinations negates the need for coverage. However, this overlooks potential risks such as accidents, medical emergencies, and travel disruptions that can occur anywhere, often resulting in significant financial burdens if uninsured.
The survey highlighted that 65% of uninsured travellers consciously chose not to purchase coverage. Of these, 31% believed their destination was safe, 27% considered insurance to be poor value, and 22% felt they could handle emergencies independently. Notably, younger travellers under 30 and those born overseas were more likely to travel uninsured, with 23% of both groups reporting they did not purchase travel insurance for their last trip.
Allianz Partners emphasizes that unforeseen events can happen regardless of the destination's perceived safety. For instance, medical emergencies in countries like Japan can lead to claims amounting to tens of thousands of dollars, covering hospital care, extended accommodation, and repatriation costs.
To illustrate the importance of travel insurance, consider the experience of Australian traveller Melissa Borody. During a family ski trip in Japan, she suddenly became seriously ill. Having Allianz's support made a significant difference, as their team provided assistance at every step, ensuring she and her husband were well-informed and properly cared for.
Allianz Partners remains committed to helping Australians travel with confidence by providing comprehensive coverage that addresses a wide range of potential issues. Travellers are encouraged to assess their insurance needs carefully and ensure they are adequately protected against unforeseen events, regardless of their destination.
