There are few things more exciting, memorable and incredible than travelling overseas. As the world becomes more and more connected, there is an infinite number of possibilities for travel to interesting destinations and the possibility of involvement in some unique and exciting activities.
Quite surprisingly however, there are those that still view travel insurance as an 'optional extra'. After saving and investing money in the trip of a lifetime, it is foolish to overlook the need for cover, particularly when cheap and tailored policies are available.
Naturally, no one hopes that they will be so negatively affected while on holiday that they have cause to use the cover in which they have invested. However, simply having a policy in place provides the peace of mind that, should something unforeseen or something less than desirable occur, you are appropriately protected and will experience minimal disadvantage.
Just as we take out insurance for our homes, cars, lives and health, travel cover is a most important safeguard. It follows then that the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) strongly advises all Australians to have it in place before travelling overseas.
Another piece of good news is that protection need not be exorbitantly priced. There are numerous options available, many of which are affordable and provide appropriate cover for the typical traveller. Also, it can be purchased and made active in minimal time. If you combine time and cost effectiveness, this results in minimal inconvenience and stress - inconvenience and stress are two things you definitely do not need before travelling.
So, why is travel cover so important?
* Every year, DFAT becomes involved in the cases of more than 20,000 Australians who experience difficulty while overseas. Having to go to hospital or be evacuated from one country in order to receive medical care in another can be incredibly expensive. Without appropriate insurance, the cost can be so great that families can find themselves having to sell their homes in order to cover the bills.
* Some Australians also fall into the trap of thinking 'I am not away for long' or 'I am coming home soon' or the big one: 'What could possibly go wrong?'. The problem here is that you never can predict when something unfortunate may occur. It is tragic but too common that, while abroad, people are injured or otherwise disadvantaged in 'safe' countries and while doing things as mundane and simple as crossing a road.
* Travellers who do not have appropriate cover are sometimes surprised to find that they are personally liable for medical costs that they incur whilst overseas. They are also surprised to find that these costs are far greater than anticipated and so great that they can cause extreme financial hardship.
* Without insurance, there is also the risk of being held liable for injuries that befall others. For example, you may be incredibly fit and experienced, but while skiing you collide with another person on the ski field. Not only may you be held responsible for the injuries that this person sustains, without the appropriate protection, you may also be financially responsible for their lost income as they recuperate and recover.
* Perhaps most importantly, being prepared affords you with the knowledge and confidence that, should an awful or unexpected event occur while you are travelling overseas, you will be protected and looked after. Of course no one hopes that they will ever have to use their insurance cover, but it is amazing how much comfort the appropriate insurance can provide if things do go wrong.
When these reasons are taken into account, it is apparent that travel insurance provides many benefits for a comparatively small price. The risks of travelling without it are simply not worth it.
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