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Credit card travel insurance

Complimentary or 'free' credit card travel insurance is a popular feature which many travellers rely on for cover during their travels. Checking the fine print of your credit card travel insurance policy terms is essential - otherwise, you might find common exclusions leave you out of pocket.

What is credit card travel insurance?

Credit card travel insurance is an insurance policy that is usually included with premium credit cards. While marketed as 'free' or 'complimentary', these policies are typically paid for through your annual card fees. The biggest misconception is that all credit cards come with travel insurance. This simply isn't the case and is usually a bonus reserved for premium cards such as Gold or Platinum.

If you already have a premium credit card, utilising the complimentary travel insurance offered by your bank can be great way to save money. You will need to check the benefits to ensure that the policy meets your needs and is suitable for your circumstances. If you're considering applying for a credit card for the benefit of travel insurance, you should consider the cost of the annual fee against a standalone travel insurance policy.

It is important to know that some policies only activate if you purchased your flights on your credit card, while others need you to call a hotline, and most don't cover pre-existing conditions. Understanding the fine print is essential for keeping eyewatering bills at bay but here we provide a few key pros and cons to look out for.

pros and cons of credit card travel insurance .css-w6rwrx{color:var(--chakra-colors-primary);display:inline;} compare travel insurance

Underwritten by quality underwriters

Underwritten by quality underwriters

Most credit card policies are underwritten by the same companies as standalone policies, so you know legitimate claims will be paid.

May not cover pre-existing conditions

May not cover pre-existing conditions

Most credit card travel insurance policies specifically exclude pre-existing conditions from cover.

No price increase as you get older

No price increase as you get older

While standard travel insurance gets more expensive as you get older, there's no extra cost on credit card travel insurance policies.

May have age and duration limits

May have age and duration limits

Many cards have an age limit or restrictions once you hit 75 years of age. Trip duration is often limited of 1 to 6 months, so you might not be covered at all even though you've paid your annual fee.

No price increase for expensive destinations

No price increase for expensive destinations

You don't have to pay extra to be covered for places like Japan and the USA, which typically cost more with standalone policies due to

May not cover your activities

May not cover your activities

If you're going skiing, riding a motorcycle, or partaking in adventure activities be sure to check the policy detail as they may be excluded.

It's complimentary, or 'free'!

It's complimentary, or 'free'!

You've already paid for your policy using your annual fees, so there's no additional cost to you.

May cost more than a standalone policy

May cost more than a standalone policy

Annual card fees can be hefty. Depending upon your trip details, a standalone policy may be cheaper than your credit card annual fee.

Activating credit card travel insurance

You might think you're automatically covered by your credit card travel insurance, but most policies have some rules around eligibility and activation criteria so it's important to check the fine print. Common activation rules include:

  • 1. Activation on purchase your credit card trip insurance is automatically activated once you make a travel-related purchase on your card, such as flights or accommodation
  • 2. Activation on value or percentage of trip purchases some credit card travel insurance only applies if you've spent a certain value, like $250-$500, or a percentage amount (e.g. 50%, 100%) of travel expenses on your credit card.
  • 3. Activation on flight purchase Your trip is covered provided you've purchased a return flight on your credit card.
  • 4. Activation on notification You need to call your card provider or log in to their internet banking or app and notify them of your trip to activate the policy. Check the table below for activation rules for popular credit cards, and check your policy documents to confirm.

The information provided is factual at the time of writing and general in nature. We have not considered your personal circumstances. Eligibility requirements and terms and conditions for cover are subject to change from time to time. Please refer to your credit card provider and the latest policy wording prior to your travels.

Will credit card insurance cover you?

  • Spouse or family members: Some credit card travel insurance policies only cover the primary cardholder, while others will cover secondary cardholders, spouses and dependents, provided that they meet similar activation criteria.
  • Age limits: Many credit card travel insurance policies have an age limit of 75-80, so if you're a senior traveller, make sure that you know what your policies age limit is before you travel.
  • Trip length: While some credit card travel insurance policies will cover you for travel up to twelve months at a time, most have a limit of one to six months. If you're relying on credit card travel insurance and realise that it will run out before you get home, consider looking into a standalone comprehensive travel insurance policy for the whole trip, or for an already overseas policy for the remaining time.

What credit card travel insurance may not cover

As most credit card travel insurance policies are one-size-fits-all, they may not account for your specific travel needs.

  • Pre-existing conditions: Most credit card holiday cover has general exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions . If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes , asthma , or cancer , make sure your credit card travel insurance policy will cover you. If not, you may face hefty medical bills if something goes wrong overseas, or big losses if you have to cancel your holiday for health reasons.
  • Holiday activities: If you're looking to go skiing , cruising , riding scooters or motorbikes , or try adventure activities like scuba diving or hiking at high altitudes, check that these are covered by your credit card cover, as many brands exclude cover for these activities. Many credit card travel insurance policies are better for being beachside in Bali than basking in the view at Basecamp .
  • High-Value Items: Unless your policy has new-for-old replacement terms, high-value electronics like mobile phones , laptops, cameras and hearing aids may not be covered for their full value, as they will be subject to depreciation.

What credit card travel insurance covers

Generally speaking, most credit card travel insurance policies mimic many of the features of standalone comprehensive travel insurance products. However, as per the table above, some credit card travel policies only cover for medical coverage and public liability unless you activate comprehensive benefits prior to your trip.

  • Overseas emergency medical treatment: Cover for hospitalisation, general practitioner fees, surgery, and other medical treatment you experience a medical emergency overseas which is not due to a pre-existing condition.
  • Cancellation fees and lost deposits: Cover if you have to cancel your trip due to illness or injury, family emergencies , natural disasters or striking and rioting. Visit our cancellation cover page for more information.
  • Luggage and personal effects: Cover for items you take with you on your journey, and typically any items you buy overseas. Visit our luggage cover page for more information.
  • Public liability: Cover if you become liable for injury to another person or for damage to their property. Cover is generally excluded if you are operating a motor vehicle.

credit card travel .css-w6rwrx{color:var(--chakra-colors-primary);display:inline;} faqs

We get a lot of questions on credit card travel insurance. Here's some answers to our most common ones.

Is credit card travel insurance any good?

Whether credit card travel insurance is as good as or better than standalone travel insurance depends entirely on you and your circumstances. If you're going for a short trip, you've paid for your flight on your card, and you have no pre-existing medical conditions, taking advantage of 'free' credit card travel insurance might be a winner. But if you're going for a while, doing any adventurous activities, or you're got existing health issues, a standalone product may offer you the coverage you're looking for.

Which Australian credit cards come with travel insurance?

Not every credit card comes with travel insurance. Complimentary travel insurance is typically offered on premium credit or rewards cards that have higher annual fees. Check your policy documents for details or contact your bank. You can also check the table above for some of the more popular credit cards.

What is the best credit card for travel insurance?

The benefits you get with credit cards varies based on the type of card you have, the policy provider and your individual circumstances, so there isn’t actually a “best” credit card for travel insurance. Our table lists Australia's premium cards that provide travel insurance and outlines any activation criteria.

Can I cover my medical conditions with my credit card cover?

In most cases, pre-existing medical conditions will not be covered by travel insurance that comes with your credit card, but you may be able to get cover for this by contacting the insurer and paying an additional premium. You will need to check the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), also known as policy wording to find out whether pre-existing medical conditions are covered. The alternative is a standalone travel insurance, learn more about covering your medical conditions.

Am I covered if I go skiing?

Like all insurances, some limitations apply to the travel insurance that comes with your credit card or rewards card and skiing is often one of them. Winter sports activities such as skiing and snowboarding are often excluded from credit card travel insurance, so if you're planning on hitting the slopes you should contact your provider to ensure that you have adequate cover for your planned activities. If not, opt for a standalone ski insurance policy.

Crystal Moran

.css-c1mx6c{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:var(--chakra-colors-primary);}.css-c1mx6c:hover,.css-c1mx6c[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-c1mx6c:focus-visible,.css-c1mx6c[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);} Crystal Moran

With a research and journalism background, and certified in Tier 2 General Insurance General Advice, Crystal is passionate about investigating customers’ tricky travel questions and helping them find the answers they’re looking for. A writer and filmmaker whose favourite trips have been to film festivals in Cuba and South Korea, and campervanning around the USA, she loves getting to know new people and seeing a glimpse of the world through their eyes.

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Our comparison is a free service that allows users to compare quotes in a few simple steps based on limited personal criteria. Comparisons supplied are not a recommendation or opinion about the suitability of a policy for a user. Comparisons are default ranked according to price and users have the ability to sort by popular cover levels. Whilst we compare a vast range of policies, we do not compare all providers in the market. Get free travel insurance quotes from Australia’s most trusted brands in just one search, including 1Cover, Fast Cover Travel Insurance, InsureandGo, Ski-Insurance, Travel Insurance Saver, Tick, Zoom Travel Insurance. Compare online and save today! The directors and shareholders are common with companies Zoom Travel Insurance and 1Cover Pty Ltd including it’s subsidiary brand Ski-insurance. CoverDirect takes all reasonable care when preparing this information but does not warrant its accuracy. Pricing information is supplied by the providers who participate on this site and should be verified with the insurer before you purchase. This site links users to the website of the provider to verify quotes and access the relevant PDS to understand what is, and is not, covered by a policy prior to purchase.

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Comm Bank Credit Card travel insurance

cba gold card travel insurance

Is it really worth while using the Commbank Credit card free travel insurance? after a quick comparison looks fairly similar to most travel insurance except for slightly lower coverage amounts.

Pros V Cons would be great to have some insight from someone thats actually made a claim through the insurance.

Upgrades! are there any upgrades you can apple to this type of travel insurance (increased coverage)

Related Stores

Commonwealth Bank

Just in case you hadn't noticed, at least on my card, free cover now only applies when you spend a chunk of the travel bookings on your CBA card.

cba gold card travel insurance

Indeed, for most CBA card types there's now a $500 qualifying spend prior to activation and a $500 excess applicable to many benefits, including medical. Definitely worth shopping around for a lower policy excess… unless your travels are limited to the eleven countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements.

Do you mind to list those eleven countries? I have a CommBank CC and was thinking to use their travel insurance. Tia

https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/about-reciprocal-health…

@sumyungguy: Damn! I was hoping Japan was one of the countries. Thanks for the link.

cba gold card travel insurance

It's free , so what's the problem?

Just because it's free doesn't mean its any good. as mentioned above high excess and fro what I have read coverage is lower.

Just because it's free doesn't mean its any good.

You know you can get insurance from more than one insurer.

I always get at least one free one as a backup.

Solid advice.. I insure my car with 3 different insurers just in case. Commbank travel insurance won’t be free if you have to use it and pay whatever the international fee is as opposed to another card with 0% international fee.

@Ridiculous Panda: 100% Not free! I booked some flights with my commbank card and fees were $78 for the transaction amount of about $2200 AUD. Shining light was the merchant double charged my card, then it took about a week to get reimbursed and it ended up being an issue with Commbank…so as a good will measure they also refunded the transaction fee. Win win.

@kiwimex: Depends on the card. I have the Low Fee Gold and I have zero international fee.

Literally more than pays for itself after one vacation. Just sucks that it was free before (minimal spend of $10k/year) but now cost like $8/mo

@borgainerz: UPDATE: OMFG: they changed the terms (can't find any emails) and they started charging me international fees, what a surprise today to see a couples hundred dollars of transactions fees. So pissed of; I'll churn asap

should still cover emergency evac on a cruise etc so I think is still pretty good

Yep, when you purchase add-on cruise cover.

I think it was like 16$ add-on for a family of 4, negligible.

We've been using the Commbank travel insurance for years and found it excellent. We've claimed a couple of times and they are easy to deal with. The new changes also include a limit of 90 days travel. We spend 4 to 5 months overseas most years, as anyone found an alternative with long trip cover with another bank?

cba gold card travel insurance

Is that travel Insurance for Debit Card or Credit Card?

New Forum Topics

Should you get travel insurance if you have credit card protection?

Katie Genter

Editor's Note

Some credit cards offer built-in travel insurance as a cardholder benefit. And it may be tempting to rely on credit card travel protections instead of buying travel insurance. But, the entire point of travel insurance is to be covered if something goes wrong. So, you may be wondering whether you should buy travel insurance even if your credit card offers travel protection.

There isn't one answer that fits every traveler or situation. So in this guide, we'll explore some aspects you should consider, and I'll discuss my take on this topic. Let's dive in so you can make an informed decision for yourself.

Travel insurance you can buy

At a high level, you can pay a relatively small premium (compared to the total cost of your trip) to buy a travel insurance policy that may provide reimbursement or coverage for unexpected issues that affect your trip.

Many different types of protections fall under the term "travel insurance." Standard, comprehensive insurance policies typically include broad coverage across various potential issues.

cba gold card travel insurance

But there are also policies that offer specific coverage. For example, it's possible to purchase travel insurance that only provides medical protection for international travel (such as GeoBlue ). Likewise, you can also purchase policies that allow you to select the protections you need (such as the build-your-own option with American Express Travel Insurance ).

We've previously compared the best travel insurance policies and providers . So, check out that guide to find the provider and policy that fits your needs best. You can also check a travel insurance aggregator to compare different policies quickly.

Most travel insurance policies exclude any loss incurred due to a preexisting medical condition. However, many policies include a process to obtain a waiver of the preexisting condition exclusion if you meet specific requirements. These requirements typically include purchasing the policy shortly after the first nonrefundable trip payment or deposit and being medically able to travel when you buy the policy. Some companies also require you to insure your trip's full, prepaid, nonrefundable cost to be eligible.

Likewise, all travel insurance policies have several exclusions. For example, most plans exclude medical benefits for injuries during adventure activities such as skydiving or skiing outside maintained trails.

Related: 7 things to look out for when buying travel insurance, according to an expert

Credit card travel protections

Some cards don't provide any special travel protections. But, many of the best travel rewards cards offer travel protections. Here's a look at our guides about some of the most common credit card travel protections:

  • Trip delay reimbursement
  • Baggage delay reimbursement
  • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
  • Travel accident and emergency evacuation insurance

cba gold card travel insurance

Check out our guide to the best cards that offer travel protections for more details on what card might be best for you. I also recommend reading the guide to benefits for your specific cards, as these documents will detail exactly what protections you can expect when you purchase travel with your card.

Note that some benefits require you to enroll — and virtually all require a formal claim process, with no reimbursement guarantee.

Related: Getting credit card travel insurance to cover the change fee on my Disney cruise

When to purchase travel insurance

Even if you have a credit card that offers travel protection, you may still want to purchase travel insurance for some trips. Here are some scenarios and trips for which it may make sense to purchase travel insurance.

cba gold card travel insurance

Travel protections aren't offered

As discussed above, not all travel credit cards provide extensive travel protections when you book travel using the card. So, if you're using a card without travel protections or a card that only offers limited travel protections, you may want to purchase travel insurance .

Related: The best credit cards for booking flights

Some travelers aren't covered

Just because a card offers travel protections doesn't mean everyone traveling with you will be covered. In particular, travel protections usually only extend to select relatives of the cardholder. Your credit card's travel insurance may not cover friends, employees and all relatives.

Related: Who is covered by your credit card travel insurance?

Adventure activities

If you plan to partake in an activity that most insurance policies exclude, you may want to purchase a travel insurance policy that explicitly includes your activity of choice.

For example, many policies exclude adventure sports like base jumping, sky diving, free soloing, diving, mountaineering and paragliding. You may want to consider purchasing insurance from an association involved in your adventure activity, such as Divers Alert Network (DAN) if you're a diver or German Alpine Group (DAV) if you partake in alpine sports.

You're concerned about preexisting conditions

cba gold card travel insurance

Most credit card trip interruption and cancellation insurance benefits exclude cancellations or interruptions caused by a sudden recurrence of a preexisting condition. So, you'll want to purchase travel insurance — and ensure you satisfy the provider's preexisting condition exclusion waiver conditions — if you want trip cancellation and interruption insurance that covers preexisting conditions.

Related: 7 times your credit card's travel insurance might not cover you

Nonmedical evacuation insurance

If you want evacuation insurance for nonmedical reasons, you should purchase travel insurance that offers this coverage even if you have a credit card with evacuation insurance .

Read the benefits guide closely, as evacuation benefits may not cover every evacuation you might need. For example, some policies don't cover evacuation from an area with a travel warning when you booked your trip or evacuation from a place suddenly inaccessible due to a landslide or other environmental incident.

Related: A Medjet medical transport membership is different from travel insurance

Cancel for any reason

Suppose you are uncertain whether you'll be able to take your trip, and you're worried that applicable credit card trip protections won't reimburse you if you decide to cancel or interrupt for a reason that isn't covered. In that case, you may want to purchase cancel for any reason trip insurance .

Related: 6 truths and myths about cancel for any reason travel insurance

You want peace of mind

Some travelers prefer to buy travel insurance — for each trip or via an annual travel insurance plan — for the peace of mind that having a travel insurance policy brings. Especially given the issues travelers have faced with a specific credit card insurance provider , it may be worth buying a travel insurance plan if you don't feel confident your credit card travel insurance and individual health insurance will combine to provide enough coverage during your trip.

Related: Here's why I buy an annual travel insurance policy, even though my credit cards offer travel protections

When credit card travel protections may be enough

Suppose you don't fall into any of the categories above and use one of the best credit cards with travel insurance when making travel purchases. In that case, you may determine that credit card protections are enough for some (or all) of your trips. However, I only recommend relying on credit card protections if you also have health insurance that will provide adequate coverage at your destination.

cba gold card travel insurance

Below is a collection of reasons you can rely on credit card protections instead of purchasing independent travel insurance. If some (or most) of these reasons apply to your trip, it may be reasonable for you to rely on credit card protections instead of buying travel insurance:

  • You have personal health insurance that will cover you on your trip, even if treatment is out of network at your destination
  • You book your trip with a credit card that provides travel insurance
  • You have a credit card that provides medical evacuation benefits during your trip
  • You make refundable travel plans that you can cancel for little or no fee
  • You tend to change your plans frequently or book travel at the last minute
  • You have an emergency fund that can cover unexpected expenses if needed
  • You have airline miles or transferable points you can use to leave the area or return home if needed.
  • You avoid especially high-risk activities and destinations

The decision of whether to buy travel insurance is complex and personal. If you don't feel confident that your credit card protections and individual health insurance will provide adequate coverage, it's likely worth buying travel insurance.

Related: Why you might want to get a premium credit card instead of purchasing travel insurance

Why credit card travel insurance is usually enough for me

After researching the best travel insurance policies and providers , I purchased travel insurance for one specific trip because I wanted political evacuation coverage.

cba gold card travel insurance

But for most of my trips, credit card protections and individual health insurance provide enough coverage for me. After all, my travel usually looks like the following:

  • My flights are often award flights that I can cancel and redeposit free of charge — or ones that carry minimal change and cancellation fees
  • My lodging can almost always be canceled without a penalty until shortly before my stay
  • If I book a tour or activity, it's usually within a few days of said tour or activity (or offers free cancellation)
  • My health insurance provides out-of-network coverage outside the U.S., so travel insurance would only pay for my deductible. In addition, my out-of-pocket maximum for out-of-network care is low enough to cover using my emergency fund
  • I book flights and pay for the taxes and fees for award flights using the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card , which provides excellent travel protections for a $95 annual fee card
  • I have ample airline miles and transferable points that I can use to cover last-minute one-way flights if needed

As you can see, the benefits of purchasing travel insurance would be minimal for most of my trips. The travel protections I use most are trip delay protection and baggage delay protection , both of which the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card provides when I use it to pay for my flights.

Related: Why the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Ink Business Preferred combo is perfect for couples who travel

Bottom line

As you book trips, you may wonder whether you should purchase travel insurance. One way to decide is to consider whether you'd be adequately covered without purchasing travel insurance if the worst happens.

If you're willing and able to cover the costs in this situation — or you feel confident you'd be adequately covered by your credit card's travel protections and health insurance — then you may want to proceed without buying travel insurance. Otherwise, I recommend purchasing a travel insurance policy shortly after you make the initial payment for your trip.

Does credit card complimentary travel insurance cover my family?

Credit cards with complimentary travel insurance usually cover your spouse and dependent children travelling with you – here's what you need to know..

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Does my credit card's complimentary travel insurance cover my partner and children?

Who is considered a spouse or dependent for complimentary credit card travel insurance, what conditions will my family or dependents need to meet for cover, will credit card international travel insurance cover me and my family for coronavirus.

If you're planning a holiday and want to get travel insurance through your credit card, most of the time your cover will extend to your partner and children when all of you meet the requirements for cover. This typically includes paying for some or all of your travel booking and travelling together for most or all of the trip.

It is different for every travel insurance policy though, which is why it's important to read the policy document. But if you just want a quick look at what's available right now, here are the key details for different credit card insurance options that cover your whole family.

We've looked at some of Australia's major credit card providers that offer complimentary travel insurance that covers you and your family. You can search for a brand here to see which insurance company provides the cover.

Remember, every travel insurance policy has different requirements, terms and conditions. So always check the complimentary insurance policy document for full details.

The definition of a spouse and dependent children is slightly different for each complimentary credit card travel insurance policy. But they are generally along the lines of the following definitions:

This may include your husband, wife, spouse or de-facto partner who is permanently living with you at the time that your journey begins. You may need to show proof of your relationship. Some policies may require you to have lived with your partner for a set period (such as 3 consecutive months) prior to the trip.

Dependent children

The term dependent children refers to your unmarried child or children, typically up to the age of 16 or 18. It can also include children who are 24 years old or younger if they live with you or are enrolled in full-time higher education.

Some policies may have a broader definition to include dependents older than 18 if they have a condition that makes them reliant on you. So it's worth checking your card's insurance policy or contacting the insurer to confirm who is eligible for cover.

Finder survey: Which credit card insurance features have people used?

Every complimentary credit card travel insurance policy has different conditions you need to meet for cover. They can also have separate requirements for your spouse and dependents. Some of the most common include:

  • Travel details. Most policies require your spouse or children to be travelling with you for all of the trip, or for a minimum amount of time. For example, 50% to 80% of your trip. Usually, you and your family also need to have return tickets to and from Australia before you leave.
  • Spending requirement. You may be required to pay a portion of your travel costs (including your partner and children's travel costs) with your credit card to activate the insurance.
  • Age. Most complimentary travel insurance policies only cover people aged 80 and under. You may be able to purchase additional cover at a premium for people aged 80 and above.
  • Residency. Eligible family members travelling with you usually need to be permanent Australian residents to get cover under your complimentary credit card travel insurance policy.
  • Exclusions and pre-existing conditions. Complimentary insurance generally doesn't cover pre-existing medical conditions. It's important to check what's automatically covered, what you may need a referral for and what won't be covered before you leave.

Generally, no. Coronavirus is a pandemic and most travel insurance policies do not offer cover for epidemics or pandemics.

We know how confusing the coronavirus situation can be when you're planning a trip, which is why Finder has a whole guide on coronavirus and travel insurance – including policies that offer some cover and answers to key questions.

Most credit cards with complimentary travel insurance provide cover for your partner and children joining you on your trip. However, make sure to check your card's insurance policy to check any exclusions, eligibility requirements or steps you need to activate the insurance before you leave for your holiday.

Want to learn more? Check out Finder's guide to credit cards with complimentary travel insurance .

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Amy Bradney-George

Amy Bradney-George was the senior writer for credit cards at Finder, and editorial lead for Finder Green. She has over 16 years of editorial experience and has been featured in publications including ABC News, Money Magazine and The Sydney Morning Herald. See full bio

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Coronavirus support for credit & debit card travel insurance

Cancellation, i already have a policy, but i don’t want to go ahead with my trip because i’m concerned i might contract coronavirus. am i covered if i cancel my trip.

The policy has a general exclusion for pandemics.

It states:  We will not pay for claims caused by, or claims arising from, an epidemic, pandemic or outbreak of a contagious disease or any derivative or mutation of such viruses, or the threat or perceived threat of any of these. Refer to  who.int  and  smartraveller.gov.au  for further information on epidemics and pandemics.

Therefore, there’s no cover for cancellation due to concerns about coronavirus.

I already have a policy for my upcoming trip, but I want to cancel the trip now. Will my cancellation costs be covered?

There’s no cover for cancellation if you cancel your trip due to the impact of coronavirus. We encourage you to contact your own travel agent, transport provider, accommodation or tour operator to discuss any actual or proposed changes to travel plans. Your travel provider can provide you with more information about your options for adjusting your travel itinerary or getting a refund.

If my travel provider cancels my arrangements due to coronavirus, will my cancellation costs be covered under my policy?

No, there’s no cover for cancellation because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. We recommend all travellers contact their travel provider(s) to discuss any actual or proposed changes to travel plans. Your travel provider can give you more information about your options for adjusting your travel itinerary or getting a refund.

If my travel provider cancels my arrangements and offers me a full refund, but I can’t get a refund for my other prepaid travel expenses, can I claim those?

No, there’s no cover for cancellation because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

If I contract coronavirus and can’t go on my trip, will I be covered by my policy?

If i’m placed in self-isolation and can’t go on my trip, will i be covered by my policy, i haven’t activated my travel insurance cover, but i want to now. will i be covered for cancellation due to coronavirus.

No, there’s no cover for cancellation due to the coronavirus pandemic as there’s a general exclusion on the policy. It’s also a known event, which is excluded from the policy.

If I catch coronavirus while travelling overseas and need medical treatment, what should I do?

If you’re overseas and have been directly affected by coronavirus and need medical help, please call the Cover-More 24-hour emergency assistance team immediately on +61 2 8907 5619.

COVID-19 cover under the Overseas Emergency Medical and Hospital Expenses benefit is now available on eligible CommBank cards for travellers whose journey commenced on or after 10 August 2022, or who activated their policy on or after 10 August 2022. There is no COVID-19 cover for cruise travel. Terms and conditions apply. Please refer to the PDS.

What if I’ve returned home and have to self-isolate? Is there any cover?

Once you’re back in Australia, there’s no cover under the policy. For example, this means there’s no cover for any medical expenses, out-of-pocket expenses, or loss of income once you’re back in Australia.

If, despite the Australian Government’s advice not to travel, I need to travel overseas, will my policy still cover me for medical expenses unrelated to coronavirus?

‘Overseas Medical Expenses’ and ‘Additional Expenses If You Become Sick’, as defined in your policy, are still covered, as long as they’re unrelated to coronavirus if you choose to travel overseas after the 15 March 2020 Australian Government advice.

Remember – it’s a condition of the policy that you must take all reasonable steps to prevent or minimise a claim. Claims will be assessed in accordance with your policy, taking into account the circumstances of your claim, when you purchased your policy, advice publicly available prior to your entry to a region, where you are travelling to, and the dates of your trip.

Currently overseas

I’m already overseas and want to return to australia (and the smart traveller advice is recommending i do so as soon as possible). will i be covered for my extra travel costs.

The policy has a general exclusion for pandemics. Therefore, you won’t be covered for additional expenses relating to any changes to your trip. 

I’m overseas and having trouble getting travel bookings to return home. Will my travel insurance policy automatically extend until I’m able to return home?

No – you’ll need to contact Cover-More to request an extension and pay any required additional premium, whether you’re genuinely stuck overseas or decide to remain overseas.

What if I’m quarantined overseas? Is there any cover for additional expenses?

The policy has a general exclusion for pandemics. Therefore, you won’t be covered for additional expenses relating to being quarantined, whether you have coronavirus or not.

However, if you’re a CBA credit or debit cardholder, the Cover-More 24-hour assistance team can support you with non-financial assistance, such as assisting with changes to travel arrangements including flights, accommodation and ground transfers. We encourage you to contact your travel agent, transport provider, accommodation or tour operator to check what they can provide under these circumstances.

If my transport is delayed or I miss a connection due to the impact of coronavirus, will you pay my claim for that?

No, there’s no cover for travel delays or missed connections because of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Claims unrelated to coronavirus

If i want to make a claim for an event unrelated to coronavirus, will there still be cover.

If your claim is unrelated to coronavirus, it will be assessed as normal in accordance with the terms, conditions and exclusions in your relevant Product Disclosure Statement ( Credit Card Insurances Product Disclosure Statement  or  World Debit Mastercard insurances Product Disclosure Statement and Information Booklet )I

General Information

What is a pandemic and epidemic.

Your travel insurance product disclosure statement (PDS) ( Credit Card Insurances Product Disclosure Statement  or  World Debit Mastercard insurances Product Disclosure Statement and Information Booklet ) includes  definitions of ‘pandemic’ and ‘epidemic’ that are used for the purposes of your travel insurance policy wording.

An ‘epidemic’ means a fast-spreading contagious disease or illness in an area, as documented by a recognised public health authority. A ‘pandemic’ means an epidemic that’s expected to affect an unusually large number of people or involves an extensive geographic area.

It’s important that you refer to your PDS for any specific details about your travel insurance cover.

Is coronavirus (COVID-19) considered both an epidemic and pandemic?

For the most up-to-date information on coronavirus (COVID-19), please refer to the  World Health Organization (WHO)  and  Smart Traveller  websites.

Where should I go for information regarding coronavirus (COVID-19)?

Stay up-to-date on information about coronavirus (COVID-19) from the  Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Smart Traveller website  and the  World Health Organization (WHO) .

If you are currently overseas or if you have further questions around what you’re covered for or need to make a claim, contact Cover-More:

  • Within Australia: call Cover-More on 1300 467 951
  • From overseas: call Cover-More on +612 8907 5060  (call charges may apply)
  • Or Email: [email protected]

Things you should know

This information must be read in conjunction with the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) as certain terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions apply. These terms, conditions, limits and exclusions are detailed in the PDS and we draw your attention to ‘’Overseas Travel Insurance’ and ‘General Exclusions’ sections of the PDS. Any advice is general advice only.

Insurance is provided by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited, ABN 13 000 296 640, AFS Licence Number 232507 through its agent Cover-More Insurance Services Pty Ltd ABN 95 003 114 145, AFSL 241713 (Cover-More) for Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA).

CBA and its related bodies corporate do not issue or guarantee this insurance. It does not represent a deposit with or liability of either CBA or any of its related bodies corporate. We do not provide any advice on this insurance based on any consideration of your objectives, financial situation or needs. 

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COMMENTS

  1. Travel insurance included

    Cards with comprehensive international insurance cover available. International travel insurance is available with Low Fee Gold, Low Rate Gold, Gold Awards ^, Platinum Awards *, Diamond Awards *, Smart Awards and Ultimate Awards CommBank credit cards and World Debit Mastercard when you activate your insurance in NetBank, the CommBank app or by contacting Cover-More.

  2. Travel insurance

    CBA Travel Insurance has got you covered with international and domestic travel insurance plans that you can tailor for yourself (as the policyholder) and up to 10 people travelling with you for the entire journey. Plans available include: ... 1 Gold Awards cards are no longer available for sale from 23 March 2018.

  3. What you need to know about credit card travel insurance

    Cancel and order replacement CommBank cards in NetBank or the CommBank app. Call us 24/7 on +61 2 9999 3283 to report lost or stolen CommBank cards. For 24 hour travel insurance emergency assistance, call Cover-More in Australia direct and toll free on +61 2 8907 5641. You can also call from: Canada on 1844 345 1662. New Zealand on 0800 632 031.

  4. Commonwealth Bank gold credit card travel insurance reviewed

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  6. Commonwealth Bank Credit Card Complimentary Travel Insurance Now

    Commonwealth Bank Credit Card Complimentary Travel Insurance Now Includes COVID-19 Cover. As of 10 August 2022, our International Travel Insurance included with eligible CommBank cards will include overseas emergency medical expenses cover related to COVID-19. Note: There is no cover for cancellation claims related to COVID-19.

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  10. Free Credit Card Travel Insurance

    Activation on value or percentage of trip purchases some credit card travel insurance only applies if you've spent a certain value, like $250-$500, or a percentage amount (e.g. 50%, 100%) of travel expenses on your credit card. 3. Activation on flight purchase Your trip is covered provided you've purchased a return flight on your credit card.

  11. How do I activate the travel insurance included in my credit card?

    In the CommBank app. Log on to the CommBank app. Tap top left drop down. Choose overseas travel. Tap Get travel insurance and complete the form. In NetBank. Log on to NetBank. Click Settings. Choose Activate Travel Insurance and complete the form (make sure you choose continue on the second screen).

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  18. Changes to CBA Travel Insurance Activation

    Virgin. Platinum. Star Alliance. Gold. Dec 10, 2023. #1. Looks like changes are coming to the activation requirements for the travel insurance on Commbank cards. From 7 February 2024, you will need to spend $500 in a single transaction on your prepaid travel costs using your eligible credit card and activate to receive any cover.

  19. How to make a travel insurance claim

    1. Spend at least $500 in a single transaction on your prepaid travel costs using your eligible credit card; and. 2. Activate your travel insurance. You will also qualify if the $500 worth of prepaid travel costs is redeemed using CommBank Awards points. You will need to provide a copy of the letter/statement/email confirming the redemption.

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  23. Coronavirus support for CommBank card travel insurance

    If you are currently overseas or if you have further questions around what you're covered for or need to make a claim, contact Cover-More: Within Australia: call Cover-More on 1300 467 951. From overseas: call Cover-More on +612 8907 5060 (call charges may apply) Or Email: [email protected].