Australia: How to Arrange Travel Insurance for Backpacking

Backpacking has become a rite of passage for many young adults, often being the catalyst for the transition from child to adult. The experiences that can be gained visiting different countries and experiencing different cultures, people and activities can result in more well-rounded, worldy-wise individuals who are better equipped for the challenges of living independently, grown-up relationships and the world of work.

Of course, backpacking isn’t just for the young. Adventurous travellers of all ages are being bitten by the bug, taking career breaks or taking advantage of time out between jobs to see some more of the world.

Australia is a popular choice of destination and it’s easy to see the appeal. This one country has so much to offer – from stunning beaches to bustling cities and ‘bush’ filled with wildlife – and it’s easy (and cheap) to travel between stop offs by car, van or public transport.

If you’re thinking of taking time out from your studies, before starting work or from your career, backpacking is an exciting prospect. It can also, however, seem like a daunting prospect to organise, particularly if, as is the case with many young backpackers, it will be the first time that you’ve travelled abroad alone.

While some travellers like to have a firm itinerary all planned out with accommodation and travel arrangements organised and booked, others prefer to take a more laid-back approach and just ‘wing it’ while out there. One thing that must be put in place before you travel however is backpacker’s travel insurance.

While backpacking in a foreign land is no doubt exciting and life-enriching, it can also be a dangerous prospect. Should you become the victim of a crime, or befall accident or injury while away, it can be far more difficult to sort out as a non-resident of the country.

Choose specialist backpacker’s cover from a provider that understands the needs of the intrepid traveller. A typical backpacker’s travel insurance policy includes medical treatment cover which is, importantly, inclusive of pre-existing conditions. This means that, should you fall ill while away, whatever the cause, your policy will ensure that you are looked after.

Repatriation by air ambulance should also be included in the cover, if deemed medically necessary, as well as emergency dental treatment. Medical cover aside, a specialist policy should also include cover for cancellations and lost or stolen baggage, legal cover and personal liability cover.

Because you’re likely to want to enjoy a full experience whilst backpacking, it’s important that you also look out for cover which includes different sports and activities in the policy, i.e. for white water rafting, bungee jumping and scuba diving. That way there’s no excuse not to get stuck in!

You also might need to top up your funds by undertaking paid work during the course of your travels. A good insurance policy will also include cover for a range of jobs such as bar and restaurant work, office work and fruit and veg picking – as well as volunteer work.

It couldn’t be easier to arrange backpacker’s travel insurance – you can do it all online in no time at all. So, whether you’re a planner or a winger, you know that you’ll be properly protected during your backpacking adventure.