The allure of Bali as a favored vacation spot for Australians has been steadily increasing, resulting in a surge in travel insurance claims. Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) and 1Cover Travel Insurance have both noted a notable uptick in policy purchases and claims related to Indonesia, particularly Bali, over the past year.
SCTI data revealed a 43% spike in policies bought by Australians for Bali travel since the 2022/23 summer season. This surge in demand coincided with a 50% year-over-year rise in claims associated with the Indonesian island, constituting 16% of all claims lodged with the insurer in 2024.
Among the common travel insurance claims in Bali were incidents such as gastrointestinal illnesses, injuries from reefs, and encounters with wildlife like monkey bites. The prevalence of medical cases linked to foodborne ailments, notably gastroenteritis, saw a significant increase, with gastro-related claims surging by 79% in January 2025 compared to the previous year.
The costs of these claims varied widely, ranging from minor expenses to substantial amounts exceeding $30,000, with an average of slightly over $1,000 per claim. Jess Strange, SCTI’s chief customer officer, highlighted the insurer’s handling of 91 emergency medical events involving Australians in Bali in the past year, including complex cases necessitating costly air ambulance services.
Accidents involving mopeds and scooters remained prevalent, with SCTI processing 21 related claims in 2024. These incidents underscored the non-medical risks faced by tourists, such as thefts while navigating the island’s roads.
1Cover Travel Insurance echoed a similar trend, reporting a 40% year-on-year surge in claims linked to Indonesian travel. The majority of cases involved injuries or illnesses, often stemming from scooter accidents, gastrointestinal issues, or mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.
Natalie Ball, chief operating officer at 1Cover, noted the growing interest among travelers in exploring lesser-known Indonesian islands beyond Bali. While Indonesia remains a popular destination due to its affordability, the potential high costs of medical incidents underscore the importance of comprehensive insurance coverage.
Official statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed that Indonesia was the most visited destination for Australians in November 2024, attracting a significant number of travelers. However, volcanic activities in the region, including Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki’s eruption, caused disruptions to air travel and led to flight cancellations.
Travelers are advised to ensure their insurance covers both medical treatment and travel disruptions, with research indicating that many Australians prioritize financial protection and peace of mind when planning their trips. Affordability remains a concern for some travelers, with insurance playing a crucial role in alleviating worries related to unforeseen circumstances during travel.
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