- The best short term travel insurance plans
- What is short term travel insurance?
- The price of short term travel insurance
- What short term travel insurance covers
- The conditions of short term travel insurance
- Why take out short term travel insurance?
- How to choose the right short term travel insurance
- Do your current insurance policies cover short term travel insurance?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
short term travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Short-term insurance covers a single trip, protecting against risks like medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage.
2. Price: For one week in Europe, expect to pay between $50 and $100 AUD, depending on your coverage level.
3. Coverage: It covers medical costs and cancellations but often excludes undeclared pre-existing conditions and some adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Credit cards, Medicare, and private health funds like Bupa offer very limited or no overseas travel cover.
5. Tips: Always declare pre-existing medical conditions and check that medical coverage limits are adequate for your destination.
6. Other useful info: Reciprocal Health Care Agreements are not a substitute for insurance; they offer only basic public care.
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 everything you need to know to choose the best short-term travel insurance.
The best short term travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best short term travel insurance plans available for residents of Australia in 2025. These policies stand out for their high medical limits, low deductibles and simplified conditions, providing reliable protection for your brief travels worldwide.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 2,000,000 AUD | 100 AUD | • Covers all trips up to 3 months. • Instant policy approval and e-certificate. • High daily limits for medical care. • 24/7 Australian claims support. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1,000,000 AUD | 100 AUD | • Multilingual assistance at any time. • Free support for children under 18. • Adventure and winter sports protection. • No age-based premium increase. |
| Tourist Card | 2,000,000 AUD | 250 AUD | • Wide coverage of trip cancellation and baggage. • Adventure activity cover. • Mobile app for claims and tracking. • Quick online policy changes. |
| World Travel | 1,500,000 AUD | 150 AUD | • Competitive price for family groups. • Emergency evacuation and repatriation. • Winter sports insured as standard. • Flexible scope for business travel. |
| Globe Partner | 1,000,000 AUD | 150 AUD | • Recognised by consulates for visa needs. • Upfront payment at hospitals worldwide. • Digital claim submission available. • Optional pet assistance. |
| Globe Traveller | 1,500,000 AUD | 150 AUD | • Valid for trips up to 90 days. • No premium rise for travelers up to age 70. • Spacious baggage allowance. • 24/7 travel help desk. |
• Instant policy approval and e-certificate.
• High daily limits for medical care.
• 24/7 Australian claims support.
• Free support for children under 18.
• Adventure and winter sports protection.
• No age-based premium increase.
• Adventure activity cover.
• Mobile app for claims and tracking.
• Quick online policy changes.
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation.
• Winter sports insured as standard.
• Flexible scope for business travel.
• Upfront payment at hospitals worldwide.
• Digital claim submission available.
• Optional pet assistance.
• No premium rise for travelers up to age 70.
• Spacious baggage allowance.
• 24/7 travel help desk.
The best short term travel insurance will depend on your personal situation and destination. We invite you to use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to choose the right option and subscribe online.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareWhat is short term travel insurance?
Short term travel insurance is cover designed for Australian travellers taking a single journey or holiday typically lasting up to three months.
It provides protection during brief trips, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost baggage, personal liability, and related risks within a limited period.
This type of policy is often referred to as "single trip insurance" or "3-month travel insurance" and is suitable for those who travel infrequently rather than year-round.
Short term travel insurance differs from annual multi-trip coverage by offering benefits only for the specific trip duration purchased.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out short term travel insurance is especially important if you live in Australia:
- when visiting countries with expensive healthcare, like the United States
- even in countries with reciprocal healthcare, as coverage is very limited
- for protecting significant, non-refundable trip costs like flights and accommodation
- if participating in adventure sports like skiing, diving, or hiking
- for any cruise holiday, as medical evacuations at sea are costly
- when travelling with valuable items such as cameras or laptops
- for domestic trips within Australia to cover cancellations and rental excess
The price of short term travel insurance
On average, short term travel insurance costs between 3% and 6% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week in Thailand (single adult) | $1,500 | $45 to $85 |
| 2 weeks in France and Italy (couple) | $6,000 | $180 to $320 |
| 1 month in USA and Canada (family of 4) | $10,000 | $380 to $650 |
| 3 months backpacking multiple countries (single adult) | $7,500 | $280 to $480 |
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 short term travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: longer stays result in higher premiums.
- destination: countries with expensive healthcare, like the USA and Canada, increase the insurance cost.
- traveller’s age: older travellers often pay more.
- level of coverage: higher medical, luggage, and cancellation limits increase the premium compared to basic plans.
- selected options: including coverage for adventure sports, valuable items, or riskier destinations also raises the price.
What short term travel insurance covers
Short term travel insurance is a policy designed to protect you during trips lasting up to 90 days. It suits holiday makers or business travellers who want temporary, comprehensive cover. It is also called single trip insurance in Australia.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refund of your pre-paid costs if you cancel for a covered reason before leaving. | We recommend a minimum cover of $5,000 and to avoid deductibles above $100. Change of mind, visa refusal, and known medical issues are usually excluded. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Pays extra transport if you miss your flight due to a delay or documented problem out of your control. | Choose at least $300 cover, with no deductible preferred. Delays must be proven and lateness without proof is not covered. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation if your baggage is lost, stolen or damaged during the trip. | Select cover of at least $2,000, and avoid a deductible over $100. Unattended or unreported baggage, and high value items above sub-limits, are usually excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Compensation for extra expenses due to significant travel delays. | Look for at least $200 compensation after shifts longer than 4 hours, with no deductible. Delays under 4 hours or without evidence are generally excluded. |
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Covers urgent medical treatment if you are injured or become ill abroad. | The cover should be at least $1,000,000, and deductibles below $150 are preferred. Pre-existing conditions and routine treatment are not covered. |
| 🚑 Emergency repatriation | Key guarantee. Pays for your transport home to Australia for medical reasons. | This should be $1,000,000 or unlimited, and arranged by the insurer. Repatriation for non-medical reasons or refusal by doctors to approve is excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers urgent dental treatment for pain or accident while travelling. | Minimum $300 cover is advised, with deductibles under $50. Cosmetic procedures and planned dental care are excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance | Pays lawyer fees after a covered legal incident while abroad. | Cover should be at least $5,000. Avoid plans with high deductibles. Legal issues arising from criminal acts or alcohol use are generally excluded. |
| 🤝 Personal liability | Pays if you are legally responsible for injury or property damage to others overseas. | At least $1,000,000 cover is recommended, with a deductible below $200. Intentional or family damages, vehicle accidents and business liability are usually excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refund for unused trip services if you need to return home suddenly for a covered emergency. | Select a minimum limit of $2,000 and small deductible. Voluntary early returns and minor reasons are excluded. |
Change of mind, visa refusal, and known medical issues are usually excluded.
Delays must be proven and lateness without proof is not covered.
Unattended or unreported baggage, and high value items above sub-limits, are usually excluded.
Delays under 4 hours or without evidence are generally excluded.
Pre-existing conditions and routine treatment are not covered.
Repatriation for non-medical reasons or refusal by doctors to approve is excluded.
Cosmetic procedures and planned dental care are excluded.
Legal issues arising from criminal acts or alcohol use are generally excluded.
Intentional or family damages, vehicle accidents and business liability are usually excluded.
Voluntary early returns and minor reasons 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 short term travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of short term travel insurance
To ensure your short term travel insurance is valid and your cover applies, several common conditions must be met.
- Timing of purchase: you must buy the policy before leaving Australia for your trip, not once already abroad.
- Residency requirement: you must be an Australian resident at the time you purchase the policy.
- Trip duration limit: your trip must not exceed the maximum period defined, usually 90 days or the policy’s specific term.
- No ongoing travel: you cannot be overseas when taking out a new short term policy for upcoming travel.
- Valid travel itinerary: you need a clear start and end date, matching your tickets or travel documentation.
- Destination eligibility: your destinations must be listed in the policy coverage zone, with excluded or high-risk areas not covered.
- Incident notification: you must inform the insurer promptly after theft, accident, illness, or any event resulting in a claim.
- Supporting evidence: for all claims you need to provide required documents like medical reports, receipts, or police statements as evidence.
Watch out!
A common mistake for Aussies is buying insurance last minute. To be covered for pre-trip cancellations, you must purchase your policy when you book your flights and accommodation. This protects your holiday investment from the moment you pay, not just when you fly.
Why take out short term travel insurance?
During any short term trip, health incidents or accidents can lead to high expenses abroad, potentially far exceeding the cost of your journey.
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%, subject to policy limit |
| Medical repatriation |
| Often 100%, if medically required |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to $10,000,000 AU, depending on plan |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Usually covered to policy maximum |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Partial or full, per policy |
- Europe: $450 AU
- North America: $1,200 AU
- Asia: $180 AU
- Europe: $45,000 AU
- North America: $85,000 AU
- Asia: $25,000 AU
- Europe: $18,000 AU
- North America: $45,000 AU
- Asia: $8,500 AU
- Europe: $380 AU
- North America: $950 AU
- Asia: $120 AU
- Europe: $520 AU
- North America: $1,100 AU
- Asia: $95 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 expenses, short term travel insurance often covers cancellation, lost luggage, personal liability, emergency evacuation, travel delay, and assistance for unforeseen events—useful protections for most types of trips.
Good to know
Heading overseas? Your Medicare stops at the border. A simple accident could lead to thousands in medical bills. Get covered for medical emergencies and repatriation. With plans like Chapka's Cap Tempo, you can travel worry-free, knowing you're protected from unexpected costs.
How to choose the right short term travel insurance
Not all short term travel insurance policies offer the same benefits. Reimbursement ceilings, excluded activities, and policy conditions may vary widely. Comparing the key criteria helps ensure your chosen protection fits your destination, trip style, and actual needs.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Low limits may leave you out of pocket for medical bills or lost items. | Check that medical cover is at least $1,000,000 in all regions, especially outside Australia. |
| 📉 Deductible | This is the amount you pay yourself before insurance covers a claim. | Choose a policy with low or no excess for medical expenses if your trip is short. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Some policies may limit family cover, cancellation, or start/end period. | Ensure your cover starts when your trip begins and matches your booking and cancellation needs. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Older travellers may face restrictions, waivers, or higher premiums. | If aged over 65, review age limits and check for reduced medical or cancellation benefits. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Plans and premiums vary for solo, couple, group, or family travel. | For families, family policies often provide better value than buying individual cover. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Cover ends at the set return date, extensions may not be allowed. | Ensure your policy covers the entire trip and possible delays or extensions before purchase. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Some regions, like the USA, have much higher medical cost exposure. | Carefully check regional limitations and do not rely on partial Medicare cover overseas. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Sports, adventure, or risky activities may not be covered by default. | Declare all planned sports or adventure activities to have them included and avoid exclusions. |
| 🖥️ Online subscription | Online purchase and claims save time and paperwork. | Prefer insurers with digital claim processes for faster reimbursement and less travel stress. |
Do your current insurance policies cover short term travel insurance?
It is understandable to ask if your current insurances, such as credit card insurance or public health schemes, can provide short term travel insurance, but in reality, this is often insufficient. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Short term travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | Covers emergency care in reciprocal countries only, max: varies by agreement. No repatriation, cancellation, baggage, or comprehensive travel guarantees abroad. | Travel insurance covers medical up to $10,000,000 and includes repatriation, cancellation, and baggage protection. |
| Private health insurance (Medibank, Bupa Australia) | Almost never | Limited medical overseas, selected countries, max: $500 per day to $2,000 per year. No evacuation, trip interruption, or baggage losses covered abroad. | Travel insurance covers evacuation, cancellation, and baggage up to $50,000–$100,000, far exceeding private health cover. |
| Classic credit card (NAB Classic, Westpac Standard) | Never | Rarely covers travel, at most minor medical up to $0–$500,000. No repatriation, no trip cancellation, minimal or no baggage and liability cover. | Travel insurance covers repatriation, liability, all short term travel risks up to $10,000,000 worldwide. |
| Premium credit card (ANZ Black, AMEX Platinum) | Limited coverage | Emergency medical up to $1,000,000, cancellation up to $20,000, limited baggage. No full sports, family coverage, or extended evacuation for trip interruptions. | Travel insurance includes medical up to $10,000,000 and offers trip, sports, family, and high-value cancellation cover. |
No repatriation, cancellation, baggage, or comprehensive travel guarantees abroad.
No evacuation, trip interruption, or baggage losses covered abroad.
No repatriation, no trip cancellation, minimal or no baggage and liability cover.
No full sports, family coverage, or extended evacuation for trip interruptions.
Expert advice
Don't get caught out! Bank cards and health insurance often exclude key cover like trip interruption for a relative's illness. Scrutinise your policy's fine print to avoid shock bills abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is short term travel insurance mandatory?
Short term travel insurance is not generally mandatory for Australians, but it is required for entry into some countries, especially those in the Schengen Area or countries demanding proof of coverage for a visa. Even where it is not compulsory, it is strongly recommended. For example, on a two-week holiday to the USA, insurance can save you from medical bills that could exceed $40,000 if you have an accident.
When is it recommended to purchase short term travel insurance?
You should arrange your short term travel insurance as soon as you have booked your flights and paid for any non-refundable expenses. Early purchase ensures your coverage is active from the start and protects against events that may force you to cancel or change your plans before departure. Buying promptly also provides peace of mind for your entire trip.
How do I purchase short term travel insurance?
First, compare plans using HelloSafe’s online travel insurance comparison platform to find the best fit. Next, review the guarantees and exclusions carefully, making sure the policy addresses short term trip needs. Proceed to buy your chosen plan online and, once purchased, you will receive your insurance certificate by email ready for your journey.
Can I purchase short term travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase short term travel insurance even after making travel arrangements. However, certain benefits like trip cancellation cover only apply from the time you buy your policy, so early purchase maximises your protection. Always ensure you are covered from your departure date.
How do I make a claim?
To make a claim, gather all relevant documents such as medical reports, police statements, and receipts. Contact your insurer’s emergency hotline or log in to their online claims portal. Most Australian providers offer user-friendly online processes, and claims are typically processed within a few weeks if all documents are complete.
Does short term travel insurance cover COVID-19 related incidents?
Most short term travel insurance plans now include coverage for COVID-19, such as medical costs, trip cancellation, and quarantine expenses. Always confirm what is covered by your specific policy as details and exclusions may vary. Look for explicit confirmation of COVID-19 coverage in the policy documents before purchasing.
Is short term travel insurance mandatory?
Short term travel insurance is not generally mandatory for Australians, but it is required for entry into some countries, especially those in the Schengen Area or countries demanding proof of coverage for a visa. Even where it is not compulsory, it is strongly recommended. For example, on a two-week holiday to the USA, insurance can save you from medical bills that could exceed $40,000 if you have an accident.
When is it recommended to purchase short term travel insurance?
You should arrange your short term travel insurance as soon as you have booked your flights and paid for any non-refundable expenses. Early purchase ensures your coverage is active from the start and protects against events that may force you to cancel or change your plans before departure. Buying promptly also provides peace of mind for your entire trip.
How do I purchase short term travel insurance?
First, compare plans using HelloSafe’s online travel insurance comparison platform to find the best fit. Next, review the guarantees and exclusions carefully, making sure the policy addresses short term trip needs. Proceed to buy your chosen plan online and, once purchased, you will receive your insurance certificate by email ready for your journey.
Can I purchase short term travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase short term travel insurance even after making travel arrangements. However, certain benefits like trip cancellation cover only apply from the time you buy your policy, so early purchase maximises your protection. Always ensure you are covered from your departure date.
How do I make a claim?
To make a claim, gather all relevant documents such as medical reports, police statements, and receipts. Contact your insurer’s emergency hotline or log in to their online claims portal. Most Australian providers offer user-friendly online processes, and claims are typically processed within a few weeks if all documents are complete.
Does short term travel insurance cover COVID-19 related incidents?
Most short term travel insurance plans now include coverage for COVID-19, such as medical costs, trip cancellation, and quarantine expenses. Always confirm what is covered by your specific policy as details and exclusions may vary. Look for explicit confirmation of COVID-19 coverage in the policy documents before purchasing.
On the same topic
