Medical Emergencies Lead Australian Travel Insurance Claims in 2024

Notably, nib Travel reported that the most expensive individual claim paid last year exceeded $3 million. Other high-cost claims, many in the six-figure range, were lodged by travellers to destinations such as the United States and Japan, as well as within Australia. Medical claims made by travellers in Australia alone reached more than $10 million from over 2,200 cases.

Despite fewer claims coming from travellers to the US—674 in total—the country topped the list for total medical expenses. nib Travel attributed this to the high cost of healthcare in the US, alongside currency exchange factors that inflate costs for Australian travellers.

These statistics highlight the unpredictable nature of travel and the potential for significant medical expenses. Travellers are encouraged to thoroughly review their insurance policies to ensure they have adequate coverage for medical emergencies, thereby safeguarding themselves against unforeseen financial burdens.