Damien Arthur, Executive Head of Travel at Allianz Partners Australia, expressed concern over the findings, noting that many travellers opt out of purchasing insurance under the assumption that their destination is safe. However, this perspective overlooks potential risks such as accidents, medical emergencies, and travel disruptions, which can lead to significant financial burdens if uninsured.
The survey further revealed that two-thirds of uninsured travellers consciously chose to forgo coverage. The primary reasons cited include beliefs that their destination was safe (31%), perceptions that insurance offers poor value (27%), and confidence in handling emergencies independently (22%).
Particularly vulnerable groups include travellers under 30 and those born overseas, with 23% of individuals in both categories reporting they did not purchase travel insurance for their last trip. Additionally, those visiting friends, relatives, or returning to their home country were more likely to skip coverage, often due to the brevity of their trips or familiarity with the destination.
Arthur emphasised that unforeseen events can occur anywhere, even in destinations considered safe. He highlighted instances where medical emergencies in countries like Japan have resulted in claims amounting to tens of thousands of dollars, covering expenses such as hospital care, extended accommodation, and repatriation.
In light of these findings, Allianz Partners is advocating for increased awareness and education on the importance of travel insurance. They stress that comprehensive coverage is essential for protecting against unexpected incidents, ensuring travellers can enjoy their journeys with peace of mind.
