We get it, when planning a trip, it’s tempting to jump online and grab the first cheap travel policy you find. But here’s the catch: 1 in 4 Aussie travellers experience a loss overseas that should be covered, yet only half ever see a successful claim.
That’s why it’s important to understand which type of cover actually suits your situation. If you’re travelling for business, even just occasionally, a corporate policy could be the smarter choice, offering broader protection for work-related travel and multiple trips. But if your travel is purely personal, a private policy will usually do the trick, covering holidays, family trips, and leisure activities.
Let’s break it down: Corporate Travel Insurance vs. Private Travel Insurance, because they’re not created equal.
Corporate Travel Insurance: Business Trips Covered Properly
If your business involves interstate or overseas travel, Corporate Travel Insurance isn’t just a box-ticker, it’s essential. It’s designed specifically for companies that want comprehensive protection for employees, contractors, and even family members.
Here’s why it’s a smart investment:
- Covers business and leisure travel
- No need to declare pre-existing conditions, if you’re fit to travel, then you’re covered
- Includes family members of directors and dependent children
- Wider protection: including incidents involving alcohol
- Minimises disruption to operations: support is instant and efficient
- High-value coverage: medical emergencies, delays, cancellations, lost baggage, car hire excess and more
Real Story: Corporate Travel Cover in Action
One of our clients extended their work trip in Shanghai with a cruise to Japan. Unfortunately, they broke their leg roller skating during the cruise.
Here’s how their Corporate Travel Insurance responded:
- Arranged an English-speaking doctor abroad
- Covered all medical costs, including medication and plaster
- Approved an upgrade to Business Class for the flight home
- Covered follow-up treatment in Australia is not included under Medicare or private health
No panic and most importantly, no cost to the employee or the business.
Private Travel Insurance: The Right Choice for Holiday-Goers
If you’re travelling for personal reasons, a standalone Private Travel Insurance policy is a must, but not all policies are equal.
Say goodbye to out-of-pocket expenses. Safeguard is proud to offer PassportCard – Australia’s only travel insurance with instant payouts for approved claims.* Whether it’s overseas medical costs, lost luggage, or delayed flights, most claims are managed in minutes via the PassportCard app. Once approved, your pre-loaded card covers the cost on the spot, so you can get back to enjoying your trip without the stress of waiting for reimbursements.
With PassportCard – an online personal travel insurance specialist – travellers benefit from:
- Instant payouts on approved claims, even via WhatsApp
- No paperwork or long waits for reimbursements
- 24/7 global support, with an Australian team on hand
- Cover for all ages, with no upper limit if you’re fit to travel
- In-house medical assessments for tailored coverage
The Hidden Risks of DIY Travel Insurance
Common pitfalls:
1. Risky Activities Can Void Your Policy:
More than 80% of under 30’s engage in risky behaviour in Southeast Asia (e.g. water sports, scooters) without checking their cover.
2. Not Declaring Pre-Existing Conditions:
Even something you had years ago, like melanoma, could impact your claim if not disclosed. One woman in Bali discovered this too late, when a related condition led to huge medical bills and a denied claim.
3. Inadequate Cover or the Wrong Policy:
Many travellers don’t read the fine print. Exclusions, excess amounts, and claim limits are often overlooked. Choosing the wrong cover (say, a holiday policy when you’re going for business) can be the difference between being reimbursed and/or being thousands out of pocket.
The Safeguard Business Insurance Difference: Why Broker Advice Matters
It’s not just about having travel insurance, it’s about having the right insurance. At Safeguard Insurance Brokers, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all cover. We match you (or your business) with the product that actually protects you when it matters.
For businesses? Corporate Travel Insurance is a game-changer.
For individuals or families? PassportCard is the gold standard.
Whether it’s a broken leg in Japan or tonsillitis in London, you should be focused on recovery or getting to your next destination, not chasing down claims.
So, next time you or your team are heading overseas, ask yourself:
Are we covered for the trip we’re really taking, or just the one we think we are?
Travel smarter. Choose protection that’s as mobile, fast, and flexible as you are. Contact us today so you can jet off with confidence.
Call us on (08) 8371 0566
Email us at info@sib.com.au