Australians are travelling further, later in life, and good on them. But travel insurance for seniors comes with some important differences compared to younger travellers. Premiums are higher, some insurers impose age limits, and pre-existing medical conditions require careful attention.
Why Premiums Are Higher for Older Travellers
Statistically, older travellers are more likely to need medical treatment overseas, more likely to suffer serious illness or injury, and more likely to require evacuation. Insurers price their premiums accordingly. For travellers over 75, some insurers charge 3–5 times the premium of a traveller in their 30s, or decline to offer cover at all.
Age Limits: A Critical Check
Many travel insurance policies have maximum age limits, commonly 70, 74, 79, or 85. Above the age limit, the insurer will not issue a policy. Before comparing prices, always check whether the insurer will cover you at your age. Specialist senior travel insurance providers exist specifically for this market.
Pre-existing Conditions and Older Travellers
The older you are, the more likely you are to have one or more pre-existing conditions. Be fully transparent about all medical conditions, use the insurer’s online medical screening tool to get an accurate quote, and consider whether you want cover for your pre-existing conditions or just cover that excludes them.
What Good Senior Travel Insurance Looks Like
- No (or high) age limit, at least matching your age
- Unlimited emergency medical cover
- Pre-existing condition cover (with full declaration)
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- Cancellation cover for illness before departure
- Hospital cash allowance during hospitalisation
- Companion assistance if you’re hospitalised abroad
Tips for Finding the Best Value
- Compare at least 3–5 insurers using their online screening tools
- Consider specialist senior travel insurers, they often offer better premiums for travellers over 70
- Review the excess, a higher excess means a lower premium but you pay more in a claim
- If your medical conditions are stable and well-managed, they may be covered at a more reasonable premium than you expect
