westpac travel insurance policy

Westpac Complimentary Credit Card Insurance and COVID-19 (Coronavirus) FAQ

Information for westpac eligible cardholders regarding covid-19.

Information on this page is correct as of  30 June 2022 .

Stay up to date on Travel Information for COVID-19 from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)  Smartraveller  website and  World Health Organisation  (WHO) and  Department of Home Affairs .

Always consult the smartraveller.gov.au website prior to any travel. In addition to visas, COVID-19 testing, and proof of vaccination requirements, many countries now have compulsory insurance and medical cover proof conditions. Check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you are entering. If you require additional documentation regarding the complimentary international travel insurance policy due to international entry requirements, please contact us on 1800 091 710.

From 30 June 2022, if during the period of your cover, you (and your spouse/dependents, if they’re eligible for cover) are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic (such as COVID-19), cover may be available under the following sections:

• 1.1 Overseas Emergency Assistance
• 1.2 Overseas Emergency Medical
• 1.4 Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• 2.1 Cancellation
• 3.1 Additional Expenses

If your travel companion is positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19, which impacts your journey, cover may be available to you under the following sections: 

Note, you won’t be covered while travelling against advice or warnings issued by the Australian government and you did not take reasonable care to avoid contracting the sickness, for example by delaying travel to the country listed in a warning.

The above is a summary only, please refer to  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet  for eligibility criteria, full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions.

A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the select benefits in the applicable policy information booklet  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

To receive a formal outcome, Eligible Westpac Cardholders must submit a claim.

Eligible Westpac travellers who meet the eligibility criteria should be aware that other General Exclusions have the potential to apply.

What is a General Exclusion?

A General Exclusion is an exclusion which will be applied across all sections of an insurance policy, and applies regardless of when eligibility for cover was gained. Should a General Exclusion apply, this means that your complimentary credit card travel insurance excludes cover for the event, activities or circumstances (specified in the exclusion) that causes your claim.

To understand what is excluded from the Westpac Complimentary Insurance covers, please refer to Part D – Excesses & General Exclusions section and the section specific exclusions of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

Other exclusions may apply depending upon the circumstances of an individual claim. General Exclusions include but are not limited to:

• by the Australian government (when a ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ or ‘Do not travel’ alert is in place), which can be found on  www.smartraveller.gov.au ; or
• which was published in a reliable mass media source.
• any interference with your travel plans by any government, government regulation or prohibition or intervention or official authority. For example, if  Smartraveller  has a warning, ‘Do not travel’ or ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ due to the risk of COVID-19 infection for a destination, and a cardholder chooses to ignore the warning and is infected with COVID-19, cover may be excluded. Or if a government closes its borders to inbound travellers due to COVID-19 and you are unable to enter and follow your planned travel across the closed border, cover may be excluded.

What if a Westpac Eligible Cardholder has booked travel and needs to cancel due to contracting COVID-19?

If you are unable to travel as a result of contracting COVID-19, Cancellation cover may be provided to eligible travellers, if you or your travel companion are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic such as COVID-19, and cover is expressly included under the Cancellation section of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . If you are unable to travel as a result of an Epidemic or Pandemic related event which does not include you or your travel companion being positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, for example a border closure, there may be no provision to claim as a general exclusion for epidemic and pandemic applies. A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the cancellation benefits in the applicable policy information booklet. Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

You therefore need to consider your own personal circumstances. We are not able to provide you with a cover decision before submitting a claim. To receive a formal outcome, Westpac Eligible Cardholders must submit a claim.

You should also contact your travel agent or travel service provider (airline, cruise line or Tour Company, etc) as they may be able to support you in obtaining refunds, credits or travel re-scheduling.

Can Westpac Eligible Cardholders make a claim for consideration?

Every Westpac Eligible Cardholder can submit a claim and have their individual circumstances considered in accordance with the eligibility criteria which includes the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply as set out in the  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

If you would like to claim, we encourage you to claim online via  insurance.agaassistance.com.au/westpac

Call the Allianz Global Assistance Claims team

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Westpac Travel Insurance

Our verdict: westpac travel insurance covers the basics and offers helpful add-ons, but its cover for covid-19 could be stronger..

In this guide

Summary of Westpac International Comprehensive policy

How does westpac travel insurance cover covid-19, what policies does westpac offer, here's a breakdown of westpac travel insurance features, standard features, optional add-ons, how to make an westpac travel insurance claim, here's the bottom line about westpac travel insurance, frequently asked questions, request travel insurance quotes and compare policies.

Destinations

• You can set your own cancellation limit on both the comprehensive and essential plans, making it suitable for trips of all budgets.
• Rental vehicle excess is included as standard in the comprehensive policy.
• Cover for COVID-19 is limited. In most cases, you or your travelling companion would need to be diagnosed with COVID-19 to claim.
• Pregnancy isn't covered after the 23rd week, but we found 11 brands that would extend cover for longer.

Compare other options

Table updated October 2023

Westpac offers some cover for claims related to COVID-19. Here's what you can expect:

• Any costs incurred from having to cancel, delay or change your trip because you or a travelling companion are diagnosed with COVID-19 - that includes additional accommodation and travel expenses.
• Overseas emergency medical costs if you need treatment for COVID0-19while on your trip
• Transport of your remains or burial costs if you die as a result of COVID-19 during your trip.

There are some scenarios that are not covered by Westpac including costs incurred as a result of mandatory quarantine or isolation, border closures or government travel bans.

Also, if you were diagnosed with COVID-19 before heading on your trip but you went anyway, you won't be covered for any COVID-related overseas medical expenses.

Westpac offers five insurance policies to travellers: Comprehensive, Essentials, Domestic, Multi-Trip and Non-Medical.

Comprehensive

Non-Medical

The insurer of this product is Allianz Australia Insurance Limited. It comes with a cooling-off period of 14 days and choice of $200 standard excess for international plans.

These are some of the main insured events that Westpac will cover. Some of these benefits may only be available on the comprehensive international policy.

• Overseas medical treatment
• Lost, damaged or stolen property
• Trip cancellation or amendment
• Additional accommodation and transport
• Rental vehicle excess
• Theft of money
• Luggage and travel delay
• Emergency dental costs
• Kidnap and hijack
• Personal liability
• Permanent disability
• Accidental death

Westpac also offers four add-ons that provide cover for a wider range of risks.

• Adventure Pack. Cover for a broader range of activities that are deemed higher-risk, including moped riding, river tubing and quad biking.
• Snow Pack. Cover for participation in snow sports, plus cover for specific risks such as piste closure, avalanches, and equipment hire.
• Cruise Pack Extends your insurance policy to cover cruises and covers a range of specific risks such as cabin confinement, missed short excursions, and marine rescue.

Unfortunately, travel insurance doesn't cover everything. Generally, Wetpac will not pay your claim if it relates to:

• Unlawful, wreckless or unreasonably unsafe behaviour by you
• Behaviour while you were drunk or under the influence of drugs
• Expenses related to a pre-existing medical condition
• An act of war, invasion or revolution
• Insolvency of a travel agent , tour operator or accommodation provider
• Mandatory quarantines or isolations
• You being unfit to travel or travelling against medical advice
• Childbirth or pregnancy complications after the 24rd week of gestation or if you have had previous pregnancy complications
• A multiple pregnancy or one where the conception was medically assisted
• An elective medical or dental treatment , cosmetic procedure or body modification (including tattoos or piercing)
• Self-inflicted injury or illness, suicide or attempted suicide

Make sure you review the Westpac PDS for a detailed breakdown of what won't be covered, found under its list of general exclusions .

You can lodge a claim online via the AGA website, or email [email protected].

Alternatively, you can lodge a claim over the phone by calling AGA on 1800 502 077, 8am–7pm, Monday–Friday or 8am–5pm on Saturday.

Westpac has a decent range of customisations, including an adjustable excess and cancellation limits, as well as specific add-ons for snow sports, adventure activities, and cruising.

This makes the policy suitable for a wide range of travellers and trip types. However, cover for COVID-19 is limited so if you want comprehensive protection, you might have to look elsewhere.

If you're still not sure about Westpac, you can compare other travel insurance companies here .

Is there an age limit on Westpac travel insurance?

No, anyone over the age of 18 can buy a Westpac travel insurance policy. However, the Snow Pack and Adventure Pack are only available to under 75s.

Is there travel insurance included on my Westpac credit card?

Some Westpac credit cards come with complimentary travel insurance. If you have a credit card, check whether it includes travel insurance, if it suits your needs, and how you can activate it.

Do I have to have to bank with Westpac to get Westpac travel insurance?

No, you can get travel insurance from Westpac even if you are not an existing customer.

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Nicola Middlemiss

Nicola Middlemiss is a contributing writer at Finder, with a special interest in personal finance and insurance. Formerly a business and finance journalist, Nicola has written thousands of articles helping Australians better understand insurance and grow their personal wealth. She has contributed to a wide range of publications, including Domain, the Educator, Financy, Fundraising and Philanthropy, Insurance Business, MoneyMag, Mortgage Professional, Yahoo Finance, Your Investment Property, and Wealth Professional. Nicola has a Tier 1 General Insurance (General Advice) certification and a Bachelor's degree from the University of Leeds.

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10 Responses

my brother Garry legge has account with Westpac and we are going to England and France in August he has travel insurance through you he said if he pays my fair i can be covered under a family pack is this true

Generally, the travel insurance offered on a credit card can only extend to the spouse and children. You can read more about it here . It is unlikely you will be covered, but you can contact Westpac for confirmation on 13 20 32.

I have booked a hotel in Bali by using my Westpac credit card. I have also paid taxes for the Jetstar flights to Bali. How much do I need to spend to be covered by WBC travel insurance

Thank you for visiting finder.

To be eligible for the Complimentary Travel Insurance from Westpac, you need to have a return ticket to Australia and use your credit card to pay for a minimum of $500AUD of your travel cost. The eligible cost includes:

*Return overseas travel tickets *Airport/departure taxes *Prepaid overseas accommodation *Prepaid overseas itinerary items

Once you have met all the conditions above, you will be automatically covered by the travel insurance.

I hope this helps.

Let us know if there is anything else that we may assist you with.

Cheers, Ash

Do I have to bank with Westpac to be eligible to purchase travel insurance

Thanks for your inquiry.

No, you don’t. You may purchase a policy without banking with Westpac. Some Westpac cards do offer complimentary travel insurance. You may also check our Westpac Complimentary Insurance Policy Overview for more information.

As a gentle reminder, please ensure you review the relevant Product Disclosure Statements/Terms and Conditions before applying.

Hope this information helps

Cheers, Arnold

Hi I have Westpac credit card .do Westpac give free travel insurance to it customers like comm bank do for there customers.

Thanks for your question. Some Westpac cards do offer complimentary travel insurance. You may find our Westpac credit card’s complimentary insurance policy review useful.

I hope this was helpful, Richard

I have a west pac altitude platinum credit card i am travelling overseas does the complimentary travel insurance bring a discount to a full travel insurance policy ?

Thanks for your question.

Westpac Altitude Platinum Travel insurance provides a range of cover benefits. Please consult the Westpac Altitude Platinum Credit Card Offers Travel Insurance page for the full review. You may also find credit card vs standalone travel insurance useful.

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You will receive a welcome email shortly, are you covered for coronavirus under your credit card travel insurance.

Now that the early-pandemic days of clearing supermarket shelves and hoarding toilet paper are behind us, and most countries are open to travellers, you might be wondering if your complimentary credit card travel insurance policy will cover the spicy cough on your upcoming overseas trip.

Unfortunately, as we’ve come to expect over the past couple of years, there are no blanket rules when it comes to Covid coverage, and each credit card travel insurance provider seems to have its own way of treating the matter.

Some credit card travel insurance providers will cover COVID-19 to some extent, while others will flat-out exclude cover related to any losses connected with epidemics or pandemics.

So, if you’re heading overseas and plan on relying upon your bundled credit card travel insurance policy, you’ll want to know exactly where you stand regarding Covid cover.

The best way to know for sure is by looking through the product disclosure statement (PDS) that comes with your policy with a fine-tooth comb. But, you can start here with some of the more frequently asked ones. 

Two of the more important Covid-related travel insurance benefits you should be looking into are medical and cancellation cover. But to make things easier, we’ve put together a breakdown of some providers and how they treat Coronavirus under their credit card travel insurance policies.

But before we get into the overview, there are a couple of important things to note:

Activate your bundled credit card travel insurance before you go

Generally you’ll have to activate your credit card travel insurance when heading overseas. If you don’t make sure to check if it’s active, then you might not be covered on your overseas trip for anything that happens outside the period of insurance.

Eligibility requirements for credit card travel insurance

To be eligible for your bundled credit card travel insurance, you might have to spend a certain amount on your card, or even make eligible purchases, which will be outlined in further detail on the various providers’ websites.  

Further eligibility requirements may include being under a certain age (under 79 is a common requirement), but there may be more. So, always read the PDS. 

Always read the PDS that comes with your credit card travel insurance policy

By reading the PDS, you’ll be able to understand the limitations of Covid-related cover on your credit card travel insurance policy, including under what circumstances your provider will or will not cover pandemics.

ANZ credit card travel insurance

Commonwealth bank credit card travel insurance, nab credit card travel insurance, westpac credit card travel insurance, american express credit card travel insurance, citi credit card travel insurance, hsbc credit card travel insurance, which other providers offer complimentary travel insurance with their credit cards.

Underwritten by: Allianz Global Assistance  ANZ credit cards that offer complimentary travel insurance include:

• ANZ Frequent Flyer Platinum
• ANZ Frequent Flyer Black
• ANZ Rewards Platinum
• ANZ Rewards Black
• ANZ Rewards Travel Adventures
• ANZ Platinum

Does ANZ credit card travel insurance cover Coronavirus? 

If you are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19, cover is available for:

• Overseas medical assistance
• Overseas emergency medical
• Evacuation and repatriation
• Cancellation
• Additional expenses 

For more information call Allianz Global Assistance on: 1300 135 271

Underwritten by: Zurich Australian Insurance through Cover-More 

CommBank credit cards that offer complimentary travel insurance:

• CommBank Low Fee Gold Credit Card 
• CommBank Low Rate Gold Credit Card 
• CommBank Gold Awards Credit Card
• CommBank Platinum Awards Credit Card
• CommBank Diamond Awards Credit Card 
• CommBank Ultimate Awards Credit Card
• World Debit Mastercard

Does Commonwealth Bank credit card travel insurance cover Coronavirus? 

Commonwealth Bank credit card travel insurance provides limited cover for overseas emergency medical expenses related to COVID-19. 

However, CommBank credit card travel insurance does not provide cancellation cover related to COVID-19.

CommBank's standalone travel insurance policy, i.e. not the bundled policy, does not provide cover for Covid whatsoever. 

For more information call Cover-More on: 1300 467 951

Underwritten by: Allianz Global Assistance 

NAB credit cards that offer complimentary travel insurance:

• NAB Premium Credit Card
• NAB Platinum Credit Card
• NAB Signature Credit Card
• NAB Platinum Visa Debit Card

Does NAB credit card travel insurance cover Coronavirus?

From 30 June 2022, NAB credit card travel insurance may provide limited cover for COVID-19 related events, such as:

• Overseas Emergency Assistance
• Overseas Emergency Medical
• Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• Additional Expenses

For more information call Allianz Global Assistance on: 1800 187 025

Underwritten by: Allianz Global Assistance

Westpac credit cards that offer complimentary travel insurance:

• Westpac Earth Black
• Westpac Earth Platinum
• Westpac Earth Platinum Plus
• Westpac Altitude Black
• Westpac Altitude Platinum 
• Westpac Altitude Platinum Plus
• Singapore Airlines Platinum
• Singapore Airlines Gold
• Westpac Low Fee Platinum
• Private Bank Gold Mastercard

Does Westpac credit card travel insurance cover Coronavirus?

From 8 July, Westpac has announced it will be providing COVID-19 and pandemic cover on eligible travel insurance policies through select credit cards (T&Cs apply). Benefits include:

For more information call Allianz Global Assistance on: 1800 091 710

Underwritten by: Chubb 

American Express credit cards that offer complimentary travel insurance:

• American Express Platinum Card 
• American Express Gold Card 
• American Express Rewards Advantage Card 
• American Express Green Card  
• American Express Explorer Credit Card 
• American Express Platinum Reserve Credit Card 
• American Express Platinum Edge Credit Card 
• American Express Platinum Rewards Credit Card 
• Qantas American Express Ultimate Credit Card 
• American Express Velocity Gold Credit Card  
• American Express Elevate Credit Card 
• American Express Elevate Premium Credit Card

Does American Express credit card travel insurance cover Coronavirus?

American Express credit card travel insurance provides limited cover for Covid-related events, such as:

• Trip cancellations, curtailments, and changes
• Medical emergency expenses cover 

It's recommended you check the specific PDS for your card to make sure you're aware of the way your credit card travel insurance treats Covid. 

Note: There is no cover if you travel against a Smartraveller ‘Do Not Travel’ warning or if borders have closed at your destination prior to departure.

For more information call Chubb on: (02) 9335 3200

Citi credit cards that offer complimentary travel insurance:

• Citi Prestige credit card
• Citi Premier credit card
• Citi Rewards credit card
• Emirates Citi World Mastercard
• CitiBusiness Gold credit card

Does Citi credit card travel insurance cover Coronavirus?

Unfortunately, Citi will not cover you for any loss, damages, or expenses caused by, arising directly or indirectly from or in any way related to any epidemic or pandemic, including COVID-19. 

For more information call Allianz Global Assistance on: 1800 072 791

HSBC credit cards that offer complimentary travel insurance:

• HSBC Platinum credit card
• HSBC Platinum Qantas credit card
• HSBC Premier World MasterCard
• Low Rate credit card

Does HSBC credit card travel insurance cover Coronavirus?

HSBC credit card travel insurance provides some cover for Covid, including for benefits like: 

• Overseas emergency assistance
• Overseas emergency medical 
• Evacuation and repatriation 
• Cancellation 

Make sure you read through the relevant PDS to understand the limits of HSBC’s coverage.

For more information call Allianz Global Assistance on: 1800 648 093

According to Mozo’s database, 32 credit card providers on site offer complimentary travel insurance on their credit cards. 

If you are concerned about whether you are covered for any medical issues or cancellations due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, contact your provider, or its travel insurance underwriter, on one of the following numbers.

RELATED ARTICLE: Everything you need to know about travel insurance

Interested in what other travel features come complimentary on credit card products? Jump over to our credit card comparison table to check out various options or Mozo's top choices of the best credit cards.

^See information about the Mozo Experts Choice Credit Card Awards

Mozo provides general product information. We don't consider your personal objectives, financial situation or needs and we aren't recommending any specific product to you. You should make your own decision after reading the PDS or offer documentation, or seeking independent advice.

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Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply to any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. These terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits could affect the level of benefits and cover available under any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. Please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and the Target Market Determination on the provider's website for further information before making any decisions about an insurance product.

Westpac Insurance

About – Westpac Insurance

Wespac provides travel insurance in New Zealand. Having the right cover when you don’t have the finances on hand can be a huge relief, especially if something unexpected happens and you need fast relief. Our travel insurance is just what you and your family need when taking a trip out the country.

If you are going away on business, or a family vacation, the cover will alleviate you from the added stress of losing your baggage, having your cell phone or wallet stolen or injuring yourself whilst away. We give you our full commitment that we will work with you energetically and creatively to deliver added value to you – and with an expert perspective that will ensure we serve your best interests at all times, and that every possible avenue for improvement is explored and exploited. Yu can rely on Wespac to be your safety net in times of crioses. Don’t worry about the things that can go wrong, concentrate of making memories, let us handle the rest.

Services – Westpac Insurance

At Westpac, we are committed to ensuring the privacy of your information. Through a transparent and passionate team, offer travellers travel insurance in New Zealand.

Don’t let the thought of illness, theft, injury or even worse situations, affect your travel planning. If you are within the insurance criteria requisitions, you qualify for our short term travel insurance at very low premiums. You can’t afford not to take this generous offer. Not only do you benefit from this travel policy, your family can be covered as well. Being away from home is supposed to be an exciting event. You could be away for a few weeks, a month or longer. Have you got a solid safety net in place should something unexpected happen to you or your family member travelling with you?

We have the short term solution for you. At minimal rates, we will cover all of you, no matter where you are travelling to. Be covered and enjoy your holiday!

Summary of Services

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• Cars & other vehicle Insurance
• Travel Insurance

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Postal address.

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Travel Insurance For Canada: What You Need To Know Before You Go

Updated: Apr 30, 2024, 1:13pm

Table of Contents

Do you need travel insurance for canada, what type of travel insurance do you need, what does travel insurance for canada cover, what does travel insurance exclude, best travel insurance for canada, frequently asked questions (faqs).

From hiking trails in Ontario to traversing the slopes of the famous ski resort town of Whistler, there is no shortage of places to visit in Canada.

The vast North American country is a popular destination for travel-loving Aussies. In addition to a growing share of business travelers, more than 350,000 Australian tourists typically visit Canada each year.

While visitor numbers faded during the Covid-19 pandemic, the multitude of Australians heading to the Great White North has picked up in the last two years, particularly to experience the country’s stunning landscape.

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Travel insurance for Canada isn’t compulsory, but it’s highly recommended to cover for any lost or stolen baggage, the possibility of your trip getting cancelled due to an emergency, illness such as Covid-19 or bereavement, and to cover medical expenses.

The Australian Government’s Smartraveller website recommends that travellers purchase travel insurance before any overseas trip.

As in any foreign country, medical care in Canada can be expensive for visitors, with a visit to a doctor potentially setting you back by hundreds of dollars.

The Australian government won’t cover these costs, and there is no reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and Canada, so you aren’t covered by Australian Medicare either.

In addition, given the large geography of the country covering a variety of destinations from beaches to mountains to national parks, it is wise to hold insurance cover for a multitude of events and a variety of potential risks including natural disasters, crime or other types of emergencies.

International travel cover for Canada is generally available in the following ways:

Basic travel insurance

This type of policy is broadly focused on cover for unlimited overseas emergency medical expenses, but also includes insurance for luggage, personal liability and other essential benefits. It is usually the cheapest option available and is suitable for those traveling on a budget or for single trips.

Comprehensive travel insurance

This type of insurance typically includes higher amounts of cover for the essentials benefits such as medical expenses, luggage, personal liability, and so on. In addition, it includes cover for travel delays, rental vehicle excess, loss of passports and credit cards, hijacking, disability, accidental death, and more, depending on your policy.

Some insurers offer variations of the comprehensive policy that are suitable for multiple trips within a 12-month period.

Optional add-on policies

Given the growing number of Australians heading to Canada for cruises, road trips or to the ski slopes, some insurers have come up with add-on policies specifically tailored for a variety of adventure sports and transport options available. These include cruise packs, winter sports packs and even higher cover for rental vehicles.

Related: How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

Most international travel insurance policies will cover medical and hospital expenses, ambulance transportation, repatriation flights, as well as personal liability if you injure someone, or damage property while you’re in the country.

Policies will also cover, within limits, lost or delayed luggage and possessions, the costs of trip delays, interruptions or cancellations, and lost or stolen travel documents.

Comprehensive policies usually offer a broader cover to include personal accident cover in case of an injury during your trip that leads to permanent disability or death, and insurance excess payment if your rental car meets with an accident.

If you are planning to take advantage of Canada’s vast offering of adventure sports and activities, make sure these are covered by your policy—or that there is an option to add it on.

Most comprehensive policies will include popular sporting and leisure activities such as hiking, surfing, kayaking, and so on. However, more extreme activities such as skydiving, scuba diving, snow skiing or snowboarding will generally require an additional adventure sports cover at extra cost.

Most travel insurance policies to Canada will not provide cover in the following cases:

• Illegal activities: Insurers will reject any claims arising if you knowingly act illegally or dangerously.
• If you are under the influence: Insurance cover is specifically void if you cause a disturbance through drunken behaviour or under the influence of drugs.
• Unattended luggage: Insurers will ignore any claim for loss if your luggage is stolen while it was left unattended in public.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: Insurers can avoid claims for any major medical conditions, if they have not been made aware of these before taking out a policy.
• Extreme sports: International travel insurance policies generally don’t provide automatic coverage for things like extreme sports, snowboarding or surfing. An optional add-on cover is required for these activities.

Most travel insurers in Australia offer insurance policies for travel to Canada. What policy suits you best will depend on your requirements including duration, age, and the type of cover.

It will also be determined by your specific needs, such as whether you are taking part in snow sports or other adventure activities.

An easy way to compare travel insurance policies is to use an online comparison tool, or read through our leading picks of travel insurance policies for Australians . However, always consider whether or not they include the extras you will require for your trip, and any pre-existing medical conditions you would require cover for.

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Do I need travel insurance to travel to Canada?

Travel insurance for Canada isn’t mandatory, but is highly recommended.

The Australian Government urges travellers to purchase travel insurance before any overseas trip, especially for medical cover.

Medical costs can be extremely expensive in a foreign country, especially if you have to visit a doctor, dentist or hospital in an emergency, so travel insurance is very handy.

Does my visa card have 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. In addition, this may not cover all circumstances or emergencies. By comparison, a travel insurance policy will offer more comprehensive coverage that includes emergency medical expenses.

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Prashant Mehra is a freelance journalist based in Sydney. He has more than 20 years of international experience covering financial news, including with Reuters and the Australian Associated Press (AAP). He writes about business, markets, the economy and investing.

Australian Bank Westpac Extends Moratorium on Regional Branch Closures Till 2027

A pedestrian looks at his phone as he walks past a logo for Australia's Westpac Banking Corp located outside a branch in central Sydney, Australia, November 5, 2018. REUTERS/David Gray/File Photo

(Reuters) - Westpac Banking Corp has pushed back the closures of its regional branches until at least 2027 and will invest more than A$150 million over the next two years to improve services at these branches, the lender said early on Wednesday.

"Westpac is extending its moratorium on regional branch closures until at least 2027 while it strengthens regional banking services," Australia's third-largest lender in terms of market valuation said in a media statement.

"This commitment will support more than 2.2 million customers and 1,000 employees who live and work in 182 regional areas."

Established more than 200 years ago, Westpac said it is also investing over A$200 million ($129.64 million) over the next decade in partnership with the government-run Australia Post to allow cash and cheque transactions at select post offices.

($1 = 1.5427 Australian dollars)

(Reporting by Sameer Manekar in Bengaluru; Editing by Pooja Desai)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Tags: Australia

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• Sustainability
• Small Business
• Mastercard launches mobile virtual card app to simplify travel and business expenses

HSBC and Westpac to unlock the convenience, security and efficiency of tap to pay transactions   

Mastercard announced a new mobile virtual card app that enables virtual commercial cards to be seamlessly added to digital wallets. The innovative app is designed to offer financial institutions more choice in how they deliver the secure and sustainable contactless payment solutions that companies increasingly expect.  

For over a decade, Mastercard has pioneered virtual card solutions to simplify tedious expense report and reconciliation processes for employees, contractors, recruits, and consultants who often use personal cards or cash for reimbursable business expenses. As companies navigate changing payment preferences particularly from the entry-level workforce – with over two-thirds of millennials having adopted digital wallets 1 – mobile technology is unlocking the next frontier of convenient contactless payments.   

“Businesses worldwide are seeking fast and secure payment experiences, where payments can be made with just a click or tap, and finance teams can experience automatic reconciliation,” said Chad Wallace, global head of Commercial Solutions, Mastercard. “With today’s launch, we’re providing innovative tech that digitizes business and travel expenses, while also empowering businesses with more control of and visibility into their finances.”  

The app leverages Mastercard’s innovative virtual card and tokenization platforms, enhanced data, and robust spend controls all within one easy-to-use interface. Accessing Mastercard mobile virtual cards is made seamless through the app so users can quickly experience the benefits of tap to pay. Mastercard mobile virtual cards can be used by organizations spanning a range of sizes and industries – including healthcare, insurance, fleet, higher education, and corporate travel.  

Key capabilities and benefits of Mastercard’s mobile virtual card app include:  

• Increased security : The app offers the ability to set up a biometric authentication and an added security measure using a PIN to view card details. Each virtual card is also tokenized, enabling the cardholder’s sensitive data to be replaced by a unique card number so sensitive account details are not exposed.  
• Robust spend controls: Organizations can confidently stay compliant with expense policies using Mastercard’s transaction-level controls, which limit how, where, and when a mobile virtual card can be used. 
• Flexible integrations: Financial institutions can quickly get to market through Mastercard’s user interface or flexible API-based integrations, and offer unique features such as customized card art.  
• Holistic and seamless payment experience: The app provides a single interface to check the status of card balances and view pending and completed transactions, and is bank-agnostic, enabling users to access and manage virtual commercial cards issued by multiple participating financial institutions.  
• Real-time and enhanced data: For each mobile virtual card created, custom data elements are automatically captured and matched to the transaction, providing organizations with increased insights into spending and automatic reconciliation to optimize back-office processes. 

HSBC Australia and Westpac will be the first financial institutions to offer organizations and corporate customers mobile wallet functionality through the Mastercard app.    

“We’re pleased to partner with Mastercard to bring mobile wallet virtual cards to our Australian corporate clients, providing them with a smarter, safer, and faster way to pay,” said John Scott, Head of Global Payments, HSBC Australia. “Mobile wallet usage is growing, with the Asia-Pacific region accounting for over half of the digital payment transactions globally 2 . As contactless payments continue to surge, it’s important that corporate clients have access to best-in-class payment solutions to keep their business secure and take advantage of the increased efficiency offered by the latest technologies. HSBC has a history of delivering innovative digital solutions to our corporate clients, and we’re proud to add to that legacy with the launch of mobile wallet virtual cards in Australia. We plan to launch in other markets later this year.” 

“Westpac is pleased to be one of the first domestic banks in Australia to offer the new Mastercard mobile virtual card app to our corporate and commercial customers in addition to our existing virtual card capabilities. The global payments market is at an inflection point and the mobile wallet solution, combining digital innovation, real time processing and security through robust controls is another way we’re helping our customers,” said Jeff Byrne, Managing Director of Global Transaction Services at Westpac Institutional Bank. 

The app will be available in other key markets for users with a commercial virtual card issued through an organization by a participating financial institution. Once registered for the app with an invitation code, users will find their commercial virtual cards automatically linked and ready to be added to select digital wallets for use across Mastercard’s trusted global network.  

For more information on other ways Mastercard is simplifying commercial payments, click here .  

1 PYMNTS Research: “Mobile Wallet Challenge: Replacing Physical With Digital,” (April 2023)  

2 “Global Mobile Payment Methods 2024 Report” (January 2024)  

Disclaimers:  

Mastercard In Control Pay app and features are available only for eligible virtual card accounts issued by the financial institution. Prepaid Cards and Consumer Cards are not eligible. The virtual card(s) are not issued by Mastercard and is (are) subject to the terms and conditions of the relevant issuer.  

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About Mastercard (NYSE: MA)

Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

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Best International Travel Insurance for May 2024

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If you're planning your next vacation or trip out of the country, be sure to factor in travel insurance. Unexpected medical emergencies when traveling can drain your bank account, especially when you're traveling internationally. The best travel insurance companies for international travel can step in to provide you with peace of mind and financial protection while you're abroad.

Our top picks for the best international travel insurance

• Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance
• Best for exotic travel: World Nomads Travel Insurance
• Best for trip interruption coverage: C&F Travel Insured
• Best for families: Travelex Travel Insurance
• Best for long-term travel: Seven Corners Travel Insurance

How we rate the best international travel insurance »

Compare the top international travel insurance

As a general rule, the most important coverage to have in a foreign country is travel medical insurance , as most US health insurance policies don't cover you while you're abroad. Without travel medical coverage, a medical emergency in a foreign country can cost you. You'll want trip cancellation and interruption coverage if your trip is particularly expensive. And if you're traveling for an extended period of time, you'll want to ensure that your policy is extendable. 

Here are our picks for the best travel insurance companies for international travel.

Best overall: Allianz

Allianz Travel Insurance  offers the ultimate customizable coverage for international trips, whether you're a frequent jetsetter or an occasional traveler. You can choose from an a la carte of single or multi-trip plans, as well as add-ons, including rental car damage, cancel for any reason (CFAR) , adventure sport, and business travel coverage. And with affordable pricing compared to competitors, Allianz is a budget-friendly choice for your international travel insurance needs. 

The icing on the cake is Allyz TravelSmart, Allainz's highly-rated mobile app, which has an average rating of 4.4 out of five stars on the Google Play store across over 2,600 reviews and 4.8 out of five stars from over 22,000 reviews on the Apple app store. So, you can rest easy knowing that you can access your policy and file claims anywhere in the world without a hassle.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

World Nomads Travel Insurance  offers coverage for over 150 specific activities, so you can focus on the adventure without worrying about gaps in your coverage. 

You can select its budget-friendly standard plan, starting at $79. Or if you're an adrenaline junkie seeking more thrills, you can opt for the World Nomads' Explorer plan for $120, which includes extra sports like skydiving, scuba diving, and heli-skiing. And World Nomads offers 24/7 assistance, so you can confidently travel abroad, knowing that help is just a phone call away. 

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Best for trip interruption: C&F Travel Insured

C&F Travel Insured offers 100% coverage for trip cancellation, up to 150% for trip interruption, and reimbursement for up to 75% of your non-refundable travel costs with select plans. This means you don't have to worry about losing your hard-earned money on non-refundable travel costs if your trip ends prematurely. 

Travel Insured also stands out for its extensive "reasons for cancellation" coverage. Unlike many insurers, the company covers hurricane warnings from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Read our C&F Travel Insured review here.

Best for family coverage: Travelex

Travelex Travel Insurance offers coverage for your whole crew, perfect for when you're planning a family trip. Its family plan insures all your children 17 and under at no additional cost. The travel insurance provider also offers add-ons like adventure sports and car rental collision coverage to protect your family under any circumstance. Got pets? With Travelex's Travel Select plan, you can also get coverage for your furry friend's emergency medical and transportation expenses. 

Read our Travelex Travel Insurance review here.

Best for long trips: Seven Corners

Seven Corners Travel Insurance offers specialized coverage that the standard short-term travel insurance policy won't provide, which is helpful if you're embarking on a long-term trip. You can choose from several plans, including the Annual Multi-Trip plan, which provides medical coverage for multiple international trips for up to 364 days. This policy also offers COVID-19 medical and evacuation coverage up to $1 million. 

You also get the added benefit of incidental expense coverage. This policy will cover remote health-related services and information, treatment of injury or illness, and live consultations via telecommunication. 

Read our Seven Corners Travel Insurance review here.

How to find the right international travel insurance company 

Different travelers and trips require different types of insurance coverage. So, consider these tips if you're in the market to insure your trip. 

Determine your needs 

• Consider the nature of your travel (leisure, business, or adventure) and the associated risks (medical emergencies, trip cancellations, etc.).
• Determine your budget and the amount of coverage you require. 
• Consider the duration of your trip and the countries you'll be visiting, as some policies won't cover specific destinations. 

Research the reputation of the company 

• Look for the company's reviews and ratings from reputable sources like consumer advocacy groups and independent website reviews. 
• Check the provider's financial stability and credit ratings to ensure it can pay out claims reliably. 
• Investigate the company's claims process to ensure it can provide timely support if you need to file a claim.

Compare prices

• Get quotes from multiple providers to compare rates and coverage options.
• See if the company provides discounts or special offers to lower your cost. 
• Look at the deductible or any out-of-pocket expenses you may have to pay if you file a claim to determine if you can afford it. 

Understanding international travel insurance coverage options 

Travel insurance can be confusing, but we're here to simplify it for you. We'll break down the industry's jargon to help you understand what travel insurance covers to help you decide what your policy needs. Bear in mind that exclusions and limitations for your age and destination may apply. 

Finding the best price for international travel insurance

Your policy cost will depend on several factors, such as the length of your trip, destination, coverage limits, and age. Typically, a comprehensive policy includes travel cancellation coverage costs between 5% and 10% of your total trip cost.

If you're planning an international trip that costs $4,500, you can expect to pay anywhere from $225 to $450 for your policy. Comparing quotes from multiple providers can help you find a budget-friendly travel insurance policy that meets your needs.

How we reviewed international travel insurance companies

We ranked and assigned superlatives to the best travel insurance companies based on our insurance rating methodology . It focuses on several key factors, including: 

• Policy types: We analyzed company offerings such as coverage levels, exclusions, and policy upgrades, taking note of providers that offer a range of travel-related issues beyond the standard coverages. 
• Affordability: We recognize that cheap premiums don't necessarily equate to sufficient coverage. So, we seek providers that offer competitive rates with comprehensive policies and quality customer service. We also call out any discounts or special offers available. 
• Flexibility: Travel insurance isn't one-size-fits-all. We highlight providers that offer a wide array of coverage options, including single-trip, multi-trip, and long-term policies.
• Claims handling: The claims process should be pain-free for policyholders. We seek providers that offer a streamlined process via online claims filing and a track record of handling claims fairly and efficiently. 
• Quality customer service: Good customer service is as important as affordability and flexibility. We highlight companies that offer 24/7 assistance and have a strong record of customer service responsiveness. 

We consult user feedback and reviews to determine how each company fares in each category. We also check the provider's financial rating and volume of complaints via third-party rating agencies. 

International travel insurance FAQs

Which company has the best international travel insurance.

The best insurance policy depends on your individual situation, including your destination and budget. However, popular options include Allianz Travel Insurance, World Nomads, and Travel Guard. 

Are there any limitations or exclusions international travelers should be aware of?

You should pay attention to any limitations regarding covered cancellations, pre-existing conditions, and adventure activities. For example, if you're worried you may have to cancel a trip for work reasons, ensure that you've worked at your company long enough to qualify for cancellation coverage, as that is a condition with some insurers. You should also see if your destination has any travel advisories, as that can affect your policy. 

What insurance do you need for international travel?

Typically, your regular health insurance won't cover you out of the country, so you'll want to make sure your travel insurance has adequate medical emergency coverage. Depending on your travel plans, you may want to purchase add-ons, such as adventure sports coverage, if you're planning on doing anything adventurous like bungee jumping.

Should you get travel insurance for international travel?

Travel insurance is worth the price for international travel because they're generally more expensive, so you have more to lose. Additionally, your regular health insurance won't cover you in other countries, so without travel insurance, you'll end up paying out of pocket for any emergency medical care you receive out of the US.

How far in advance should international travelers purchase travel insurance?

You should purchase travel insurance as soon as possible after making payment on your trip. This makes you eligible for add-ons like coverage for pre-existing conditions and CFAR. It also mitigates the chance of any losses in the days leading up to your trip. 

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