- What are the best Round-the-world travel insurance plans?
- Round-the-world travel insurance
- The price of Round-the-world travel insurance
- What Round-the-world travel insurance covers
- The conditions of Round-the-world travel insurance
- Why take out Round-the-world travel insurance?
- How to choose the right Round-the-world travel insurance
- Do your current insurance policies cover Round-the-world travel?
- FAQ
Round-the-world travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Round-the-world insurance is long-term cover for single trips spanning multiple countries and continents.
2. Price: Expect to pay from $800 AUD for a basic six-month multi-country policy.
3. Coverage: Covers medical emergencies and cancellations, but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Bank cards, Medicare, and private health funds offer very limited or no overseas trip cover.
5. Tips: Check policy duration limits and ensure all destinations, including high-risk ones, are explicitly covered.
6. Other useful info: Some policies can be extended while you are still travelling, which offers valuable flexibility.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analysing 38 travel insurance policies available in Australia, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best Round-the-world travel insurance.
What are the best Round-the-world travel insurance plans?
Here is a selection of the best Round-the-world travel insurance plans available for residents of Australia in 2025. These options are recognised for their high medical coverage, low deductibles and flexible conditions, offering excellent support for long and complex journeys.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 2,000,000 AUD | 0 AUD | • Unlimited trips and destinations. • 24/7 global emergency hotline. • Includes personal effects and digital nomad cover. • Comprehensive adventure sports protection. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1,000,000 AUD | 0 AUD | • Dedicated to long-term trips. • Mobile claims submission from anywhere. • Assistance for work and volunteering abroad. • Suitable for solo travellers and families. |
| Tourist Card | 2,000,000 AUD | 100 AUD | • Covers annual multi-trip plans. • Pre-existing conditions covered with supplement. • Adventure activity options. • Easy extension for unforeseen delays. |
| World Travel | 1,500,000 AUD | 50 AUD | • Backpacker and working holiday friendly. • Baggage and equipment cover. • Telemedicine access worldwide. • Multi-language support abroad. |
| Globe Partner | 500,000 AUD | 50 AUD | • Suited for extended trips and expatriates. • Quick enrollment and policy delivery. • Personal and public liability coverage. • Family and couple discounts. |
| Globe Traveller | 500,000 AUD | 50 AUD | • Valid for trips up to 24 months. • Covers multiple countries and continents. • Stable premiums up to age 70. • 24/7 worldwide claims support. |
• 24/7 global emergency hotline.
• Includes personal effects and digital nomad cover.
• Comprehensive adventure sports protection.
• Mobile claims submission from anywhere.
• Assistance for work and volunteering abroad.
• Suitable for solo travellers and families.
• Pre-existing conditions covered with supplement.
• Adventure activity options.
• Easy extension for unforeseen delays.
• Baggage and equipment cover.
• Telemedicine access worldwide.
• Multi-language support abroad.
• Quick enrollment and policy delivery.
• Personal and public liability coverage.
• Family and couple discounts.
• Covers multiple countries and continents.
• Stable premiums up to age 70.
• 24/7 worldwide claims support.
The best Round-the-world travel insurance may vary according to your needs. We invite you to use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find the plan that suits you best and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareRound-the-world travel insurance
Round-the-world travel insurance is comprehensive cover designed for Australians travelling through multiple countries on a single extended global journey, often lasting several months to two years.
It offers continuous protection across all planned destinations, covering medical emergencies, personal belongings, trip interruption, and personal liability for the entire trip.
This type of insurance is essential for backpackers, gap year travellers, and those on working holidays, as it is structured for one continuous, multi-destination adventure rather than several separate trips.
It may also be called world trip or backpacker insurance.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out Round-the-world travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in Australia:
- when your trip lasts for several months or up to two years
- if you plan to visit multiple countries across different continents
- for a gap year, career sabbatical, or extended backpacking journey
- when undertaking a working holiday, as standard policies often exclude work
- if your itinerary is flexible with no fixed return date
- to ensure continuous cover when crossing many international borders
- if you visit countries with high healthcare costs like the USA
The price of Round-the-world travel insurance
On average, Round-the-world travel insurance costs between 3% and 7% of your total trip cost.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 6-month trip across Europe, Asia and South America | $18,000 | $800 to $1,200 |
| 12-month journey to all continents (15+ countries) | $32,000 | $1,500 to $2,500 |
| 18-month extended world tour (20+ countries) | $48,000 | $2,200 to $3,800 |
| 24-month gap year and working holiday in multiple regions | $56,000 | $2,800 to $4,500 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your Round-the-world travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer the journey, the higher the insurance premium.
- destination countries: visiting countries with high healthcare costs or certain risks will raise the price.
- traveller’s age: older travellers often pay higher premiums and may face age-related limits.
- level of coverage: comprehensive policies with high medical, baggage and adventure sports cover will cost more.
- selected options: including cover for working holidays, valuable electronic equipment, or high-risk activities increases the cost.
- pre-existing conditions: declaring and covering ongoing health issues may result in higher premiums.
What Round-the-world travel insurance covers
Round-the-world travel insurance is a long-duration policy designed for journeys across multiple countries or continents, often lasting several months or more. It is well suited for Australian backpackers, digital nomads, or anyone embarking on extended travel. This type offers continuous protection through many destinations.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation/interruption | Refund of unused travel expenses if you have to cancel or cut short your trip for a covered reason. | Minimum cover should be $10,000, with deductible below $100. Change of mind, travel bans, or voluntary returns are excluded. |
| 🎒 Personal effects/baggage | Replacement of lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and valuables during your journey. | At least $5,000 cover is recommended, deductible under $50. Unattended bags, loss of cash, and items above sub-limits are not covered. |
| 🕒 Travel delay/missed connection | Compensation for extra costs if your transport is delayed or you miss a connection. | Opt for at least $300 after a 6-hour delay, no deductible ideally. No cover for delays under threshold, or if not officially confirmed in writing. |
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for sudden illness, injury, or emergency hospital care abroad. | The minimum should be $2,000,000, deductible under $150. Claims for pre-existing conditions, elective care, and routine treatments are commonly excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation/repatriation | Key guarantee. Pays for necessary transport to a nearby hospital or return to Australia. | Select unlimited or at least $500,000 cover. Non-emergency transport or requests refused by insurer are excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Urgent dental treatment for an accident or severe pain abroad. | Cover should be at least $500, deductible no more than $50. Cosmetic procedures and planned dental work are not included. |
| 🤝 Personal liability | Covers injury or property damage caused accidentally to others while travelling. | At least $2,000,000 cover, with deductible below $100 recommended. Professional liability, motor vehicle and intentional damage are excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance | Refunds lawyer or bail fees if you encounter legal issues in another country. | Seek at least $5,000 per trip, with low deductible. Criminal proceedings, fines, or claims involving alcohol/drugs are excluded. |
| 🚗 Rental vehicle excess | Pays the excess if your rental car is damaged or stolen overseas. | Look for $5,000 cover, deductible under $250. Claims for unlicensed drivers, off-road use, or racing are not covered. |
| 🎿 Adventure sports coverage | Covers medical emergencies while participating in adventure activities included in your insurance. | Ensure all planned activities are listed and check specific limits. Professional sports, dangerous acts, or lack of safety equipment are excluded. |
Change of mind, travel bans, or voluntary returns are excluded.
Unattended bags, loss of cash, and items above sub-limits are not covered.
No cover for delays under threshold, or if not officially confirmed in writing.
Claims for pre-existing conditions, elective care, and routine treatments are commonly excluded.
Non-emergency transport or requests refused by insurer are excluded.
Cosmetic procedures and planned dental work are not included.
Professional liability, motor vehicle and intentional damage are excluded.
Criminal proceedings, fines, or claims involving alcohol/drugs are excluded.
Claims for unlicensed drivers, off-road use, or racing are not covered.
Professional sports, dangerous acts, or lack of safety equipment are excluded.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the Round-the-world travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of Round-the-world travel insurance
Round-the-world travel insurance is only valid if several essential conditions are satisfied before and during your extended journey.
- Timing of purchase: you must purchase the policy before departing Australia and before your round-the-world trip begins.
- Residency requirement: you need to be an Australian resident at the time of taking out your policy.
- Trip duration compliance: your journey must not exceed the maximum period covered by the policy, such as 12, 18, or 24 months.
- No ongoing travel: you must not already be overseas or midway through the trip when you buy a new round-the-world policy.
- Destination inclusions: the policy must cover every country you travel through, with trips to sanctioned or excluded countries not insured.
- Pre-existing conditions: disclose any pre-existing health conditions up front, as coverage generally applies only if accepted by the insurer.
- Activity and work disclosure: declare all planned adventure activities or temporary work abroad to ensure these are covered in the policy.
- Claim reporting: incidents such as illness or theft must be notified to the insurer promptly, with supporting proof like police or medical reports.
Watch out!
Thinking your credit card insurance will cover your big lap around the globe? Think again. Most complimentary bank policies cap coverage at 90 days, which is no good for a proper RTW trip. You need a specialised long-term policy to be properly covered from start to finish.
Why take out Round-the-world travel insurance?
Travelling on a Round-the-world trip means encountering unpredictable risks in multiple countries, and medical emergencies can create major financial pressure far from home.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to 100%, by policy limit |
| Medical repatriation |
| Often 100%, if medically necessary and urgent |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to $10,000,000 AU |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Covered up to the policy maximum |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Partial or full, subject to caps |
- Europe: $400 to $800 AU
- North America: $1,200 to $2,500 AU
- Asia: $150 to $400 AU
- Europe: $50,000 to $150,000 AU
- North America: $80,000 to $200,000 AU
- Asia: $30,000 to $100,000 AU
- Europe: $15,000 to $35,000 AU
- North America: $45,000 to $85,000 AU
- Asia: $8,000 to $20,000 AU
- Europe: $300 to $600 AU
- North America: $800 to $1,800 AU
- Asia: $100 to $300 AU
- Europe: $250 to $600 AU
- North America: $800 to $2,000 AU
- Asia: $100 to $350 AU
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
In addition to medical costs, Round-the-world travel insurance also commonly includes trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen bags, personal liability, emergency evacuation, missed connections, adventure sports and coverage for expensive equipment, bringing peace of mind on global journeys.
Good to know
Your bank or health fund cover won't cut it for a long trip. Avoid crippling medical bills—an accident in the US could cost over $80,000! A specialist policy, like those from AVA, ensures you’re protected for medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost gear on your global adventure.
How to choose the right Round-the-world travel insurance
Coverage limits, claim conditions and inclusions all differ between Round-the-world travel insurance plans. Comparing each key criterion ensures your cover matches the variety of risks and durations encountered during global journeys.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Medical and evacuation costs are unpredictable and can be very high in some regions | Choose $2,000,000+ for medical and evacuation for comprehensive Round-the-world protection. |
| 📉 Deductible | The out-of-pocket cost per claim can impact your travel budget over months or years | Opt for a reasonable deductible that balances your premium and what you can afford to pay if needed. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Long journeys bring complex booking, rebooking, and policy period challenges | Review extension, renewal and early return rules to avoid gaps if plans or destinations change. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Seniors and young travellers may face either higher costs, limits or restrictions | Age-related conditions or surcharges can apply, so always confirm age range for all insured persons. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Solo traveller, couple, group, family or digital nomad needs vary for baggage, tech and cover | Pick a policy type that fits your travel style and everyone in your group, not just the main applicant. |
| 📆 Trip duration | A Round-the-world trip lasts from months to years, so maximum single trip lengths matter | Make sure your policy allows stays of 180 days or more and can be extended from overseas. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Not all plans automatically cover all visited regions, especially USA or high-risk countries | List all countries and check coverage by zone, including natural disasters or conflict regions. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Adventure and work activities require special protection, not always in basic plans | Declare sports or work plans before travelling to be sure those activities are not excluded. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Global trips need easy access to renewal, claims and assistance without local paperwork | Choose an insurer with digital policy management and 24/7 support, ideally with a mobile app. |
Do your current insurance policies cover Round-the-world travel?
It is natural to wonder if your current insurances, such as credit card insurance or public health cover, can offer you adequate Round-the-world travel insurance, but unfortunately, this is often not the case. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Round-the-world travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | Limited emergency medical in a few countries under agreements, benefit limits vary. No worldwide care, repatriation, liability, cancelled trips, or sports cover. | Travel insurance can cover up to $10,000,000 worldwide for emergencies, evacuation, baggage, and missed connections. |
| Private health insurance (Bupa, Medibank) | Almost never | Some emergency overseas, usually capped at $2,000,000, short trip only. No adventure sports, trip extensions, baggage, or worldwide trip interruption guarantees. | Travel insurance covers ongoing multi-country trips, interruptions, expensive activities, and higher limits up to $10,000,000. |
| Classic credit card (NAB Classic, Westpac Standard) | Never | At most, basic accident cover or minimal medical, rarely more than $500,000 for short trips. No cancellation, working holiday, worldwide multi-month or expensive baggage cover. | Travel insurance suits global journeys: high-value interruptions, sporting risks, electronics, and anywhere worldwide up to $10,000,000. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Black, AMEX Platinum) | Limited coverage | Medical often capped at $5,000,000, baggage $15,000, limited to max 6 months. No renewal, coverage for work/extended stays, or multiple continents on a single policy. | Travel insurance allows extended global trips, multiple renewals, and covers adventure, work, and cancellation up to $10,000,000. |
No worldwide care, repatriation, liability, cancelled trips, or sports cover.
No adventure sports, trip extensions, baggage, or worldwide trip interruption guarantees.
No cancellation, working holiday, worldwide multi-month or expensive baggage cover.
No renewal, coverage for work/extended stays, or multiple continents on a single policy.
Expert advice
Heads up, Aussies! Your bank card or private health cover often won't include trip interruption for a family emergency. Read the fine print carefully to avoid nasty surprises overseas. For true peace of mind, it's always safer to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Is Round-the-world travel insurance mandatory?
Round-the-world travel insurance is not universally mandatory, but some countries do require proof of insurance for visa issuance or entry, particularly in the Schengen Area, Russia, or South America. Even when it is not compulsory, it is highly recommended due to complex multi-country itineraries. For example, medical emergencies or lost baggage on a year-long world tour can cause major financial strain without adequate cover.
When is it recommended to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
It is best to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance as soon as you start making non-refundable payments for flights, tours, or accommodation. Early purchase ensures you are protected even if you must cancel your trip before departure or face pre-trip incidents. This approach also secures peace of mind, as coverage for many risks begins immediately after purchase.
How do I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
Begin by comparing policies using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to identify the most suitable options for your journey. Carefully check guarantees and exclusions, especially for multi-country coverage, adventure activities, and equipment protection. Purchase your chosen policy online and receive your insurance certificate promptly by email for your travel records and visa applications.
Can I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance after my trip has started?
Some insurers allow you to take out or extend Round-the-world travel insurance while already overseas, though it’s less common and may exclude certain incidents. For full benefits, it’s best to arrange your policy before departure. Pre-existing conditions and cancellation cover typically only apply if purchased before your trip starts.
How do I make a claim on Round-the-world travel insurance?
If you need to make a claim, contact your insurer’s 24/7 emergency helpline or submit documents through their online portal. Keep all receipts, police reports, and medical statements as evidence. Prompt claims submission and complete paperwork help ensure your claim is processed efficiently, especially during complex, multi-destination trips.
Does Round-the-world travel insurance cover adventure and sports activities?
Many Round-the-world travel insurance policies include popular adventure activities such as hiking, surfing, or snorkeling. However, coverage for higher-risk activities—like bungee jumping, mountaineering, or scuba diving—may require an extra premium or specific add-ons. Always confirm your chosen policy covers all planned activities before departure.
Is electronic equipment like laptops and cameras covered during a Round-the-world trip?
Most comprehensive Round-the-world insurance policies offer specified cover for personal technology and valuable electronic equipment. However, there are usually per-item and total limits, and coverage may exclude certain situations such as leaving equipment unattended. If you are a digital nomad or travel with expensive gear, review the policy and consider separate gadget or equipment insurance for higher value items.
Is Round-the-world travel insurance mandatory?
Round-the-world travel insurance is not universally mandatory, but some countries do require proof of insurance for visa issuance or entry, particularly in the Schengen Area, Russia, or South America. Even when it is not compulsory, it is highly recommended due to complex multi-country itineraries. For example, medical emergencies or lost baggage on a year-long world tour can cause major financial strain without adequate cover.
When is it recommended to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
It is best to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance as soon as you start making non-refundable payments for flights, tours, or accommodation. Early purchase ensures you are protected even if you must cancel your trip before departure or face pre-trip incidents. This approach also secures peace of mind, as coverage for many risks begins immediately after purchase.
How do I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
Begin by comparing policies using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to identify the most suitable options for your journey. Carefully check guarantees and exclusions, especially for multi-country coverage, adventure activities, and equipment protection. Purchase your chosen policy online and receive your insurance certificate promptly by email for your travel records and visa applications.
Can I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance after my trip has started?
Some insurers allow you to take out or extend Round-the-world travel insurance while already overseas, though it’s less common and may exclude certain incidents. For full benefits, it’s best to arrange your policy before departure. Pre-existing conditions and cancellation cover typically only apply if purchased before your trip starts.
How do I make a claim on Round-the-world travel insurance?
If you need to make a claim, contact your insurer’s 24/7 emergency helpline or submit documents through their online portal. Keep all receipts, police reports, and medical statements as evidence. Prompt claims submission and complete paperwork help ensure your claim is processed efficiently, especially during complex, multi-destination trips.
Does Round-the-world travel insurance cover adventure and sports activities?
Many Round-the-world travel insurance policies include popular adventure activities such as hiking, surfing, or snorkeling. However, coverage for higher-risk activities—like bungee jumping, mountaineering, or scuba diving—may require an extra premium or specific add-ons. Always confirm your chosen policy covers all planned activities before departure.
Is electronic equipment like laptops and cameras covered during a Round-the-world trip?
Most comprehensive Round-the-world insurance policies offer specified cover for personal technology and valuable electronic equipment. However, there are usually per-item and total limits, and coverage may exclude certain situations such as leaving equipment unattended. If you are a digital nomad or travel with expensive gear, review the policy and consider separate gadget or equipment insurance for higher value items.
