ICA urges Aussies to pack travel insurance amidst rising alcohol incidents

About 87% of Australians took out travel insurance on their last trip in the past year.

As millions of Australians head to warmer countries for the July school holidays, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) urges travellers to secure coverage – most especially with the prevalence of alcohol consumption.

“While enjoying a drink or two is a key part of holidaying for millions of Australians, travellers should be aware of what they are covered for so that a broken bone doesn’t lead to a broken bank account. Travellers should make sure they read their policy documents so they understand what they’re covered for, whether that involves drinking alcohol, going for a hike or riding a motorcycle.” ICA CEO Andrew Hall said in a media release.

The council reminded the importance of travel insurance, providing protection against unforeseen accidents, damage, or loss. Policies often include exclusions for incidents occurring when the policyholder is under the influence of alcohol. 

Many cover incidents with a blood alcohol reading up to 0.19%, about four times Australia's legal driving limit.

A survey of 1,007 Australians who travelled overseas in the past year revealed that 87% took out travel insurance on their last trip, and 69% of those drank alcohol during the trip.

Four in 10 travellers were aware that alcohol consumption requirements vary between insurers. Whilst, more than half (55%) of those who drank alcohol and took out insurance were unsure how their policy treated alcohol consumption in case of an accident.

Although, 13% of Australians travel without insurance on their most recent trip. Yet, younger Australians, low-income households, and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds were more likely to travel uninsured.

The survey was conducted by Quantum Market Research for the ICA and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller.