Why travel insurance is important for families
Travelling with young ones is exciting, but also comes with challenges. Here’s how we can step in if your travel plans take an unexpected turn:
- Age-specific health concerns: If you, your child, or your grandchild suddenly falls ill while exploring Europe, the 24/7 emergency assistance team can help arrange medical care to get you back on your feet.
- Trip interruptions: Imagine a last-minute flight cancellation disrupting your dream family holiday. While we can’t stop the interruption, we may be able to help reimburse your costs and get your plans back on track.
- Lost luggage: Travelling with a baby means keeping essentials—like nappies and formula—at hand. If your luggage is lost in transit, we could replace vital baby items to keep your little one comfortable.
- Emergencies: Holidaying with a thrill-seeking teen? If they take a tumble hiking, the 24/7 emergency assistance team could ensure medical attention without the worry of unexpected expenses.
The features and benefits described are a summary of cover only. Cover is subject to the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions outlined in the Product Disclosure Statement.
Does nib travel insurance cover families when travelling domestically and overseas?
nib travel insurance offers cover for children under 25 at no extra cost if they:
- Are under 25 when the Certificate of Insurance is issued.
- Work less than 30 hours per week.
- Travel with you on the same itinerary for the entire trip.
Our travel insurance policies define a child as; ‘your children, stepchildren, grandchildren, foster children, or any child for whom you are the legal guardian.’
Ready for your next adventure? Get a travel insurance quote.
What’s not covered
Just as your family situation isn’t a one-size-fits-all, neither is our travel insurance. There are some situations where we won’t be able to provide cover, including:
- Pre-existing medical conditions: If your child has an existing medical condition, be sure to disclose it when purchasing travel insurance. This way, you’ll know in advance whether it’s covered.
- Unsupervised belongings: Left your child’s iPad unattended on the beach while you were catching waves? We can’t cover items that are lost or stolen when left unattended.
- High-risk activities: If you injure yourself participating in high-risk sports or activities not covered by your policy, you won’t just bruise your ego—you won’t be covered either.
- Travel against government advice: Travelling to a destination with a “Do Not Travel” warning is risky, especially when you’ve got kids in tow. Unfortunately, these trips aren’t covered under our policies. For the latest information on your chosen destinations visit the Smartraveller website.
- Unapproved itinerary changes: If you decide to extend your family holiday and create even more memories, make sure to update your policy. Failing to do so means any incidents during the extra days won’t be covered.
Always review the terms and conditions, limitations and exclusions of your policy to ensure you understand what’s included and what’s not. If in doubt, reach out to us for clarification before you travel.
Family travel tips for a stress-free trip
- Travelling with grandchildren? Learn their routines before you leave. The last thing you need is hungry, overtired, overstimulated grandchildren throwing a tantrum at the airport.
- Pack smart: Bring along essentials like snacks, toys, games, and comfort items, such as a favourite blanket or stuffed animal. A well-packed bag can be your lifesaver during long layovers or delays.
- Double-check medical coverage: review your nib travel insurance policy before you leave, to understand what is (and isn’t) covered. You don’t want any surprises if your child needs medical attention while abroad.
- Be prepared for emergencies: carry a small first-aid kit and ensure you have enough medication (if required) for the entire trip.
- Save copies of documents: Keep copies of passports, your travel insurance details, and medical prescriptions handy in case of emergency.
- Choose kid-friendly destinations: search for accommodation that offers activities and dining options for children. That way there's plenty for everyone to enjoy.
- Allow extra time: expect the unexpected and build some wiggle room into your itinerary. Travelling with children often means needing extra time for everything!
Family travel insurance FAQs
nib provides coverage for medical emergencies overseas, including hospitalisation, treatment, and evacuation, as long as your child meets the policy’s eligibility criteria. Be sure to disclose any existing medical conditions when purchasing your policy. If you’re unsure of coverage, contact us—we’re here to help.
Yes, you can purchase travel insurance for your family holiday after leaving home in Australia, however, there is a 72-hour waiting period for all policies purchased while travelling.
In an emergency, the emergency assistance team is ready to help. Contact them at +61 2 9234 3193 or email assistance@nibtravelinsurance.com.au.
The above features and benefits are a summary of cover only. Cover is subject to the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions outlined in the Product Disclosure Statement.