More than 40 per cent of all travel insurance claims lodged with nib Travel in 2024 were related to medical issues, highlighting the essential role of insurance when planning a trip—whether abroad or within Australia.
One of the most expensive claims processed by nib last year exceeded $3 million, while several others reached six-figure sums. The majority of high-cost claims came from travellers visiting destinations such as the United States, Japan and Australia.
Domestically, nib Travel processed 2,294 claims for medical events, with total costs surpassing $10 million. Although travellers to the United States made fewer claims (674 in total), the associated medical expenses also reached around $10 million, driven by the high cost of care and exchange rate fluctuations.
Travel insurance key to emergency care and repatriation
nib Travel, part of the broader nib Group, provides cover for various international medical emergencies including hospital care, dental treatment, evacuation, and repatriation. Some pre-existing conditions are also covered.
Dylan Wilkinson, General Manager International & Partnerships at nib Travel, said that while most trips go smoothly, insurance becomes critical when unexpected incidents occur. ‘The financial burden of a medical emergency away from home can be overwhelming. This is why securing adequate travel insurance, preferably at the time you book your travel, is essential,’ he said.
Among the most serious cases was an Australian traveller in the United States who required weeks of intensive care and was eventually flown home via air ambulance. In another incident, a traveller diving in Indonesia suffered multiple injuries after hitting his head on a reef, requiring hospital care and an extended stay for family members before being repatriated.
24/7 medical support for policyholders
nib Travel offers access to around-the-clock emergency medical support, including a specialised team that coordinates with overseas hospitals and ensures appropriate care is delivered. ‘We help move travellers to larger hospitals when necessary and oversee their care throughout the process,’ Wilkinson said. ‘Without insurance, the cost of these incidents can be devastating.’
