Bupa Travel Insurance Review

Bupa Travel Insurance distributes policies underwritten by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited (ZAIL), part of the Zurich Insurance Group. Bupa facilitates access to travel insurance for Australian customers, while ZAIL provides the underwriting and financial security behind the policies.

ZAIL, with an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL 232507), supports policyholders in over 210 countries, ensuring expertise and reliability. Bupa works with Travel Insurance Partners Pty Limited (TIP) for policy administration, customer support, claims processing, and medical evaluations. TIP holds its own AFSL (360138) and manages these functions on behalf of ZAIL.

Bupa HI Pty Ltd, as a licensed representative of Open Insurance Pty Ltd (AFSL 451712), distributes the insurance, focusing on providing general advice and facilitating access to a globally backed product without assuming underwriting or financial liability.

🔎 Date Established	2002
📌 Headquartered	33 Exhibition Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000
🛡️ Regulation and Compliance	Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC)
📍 Type of Travel Insurance Plans Offered	Single Trip, Annual Multi-Trip, Domestic Plans
🔑 Key Cover Areas	Medical cover, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, personal liability, emergency evacuation
🚨 Emergency Assistance Services	24/7 emergency assistance is available
🤒 COVID-19 Cover	Includes cover for COVID-19-related cancellations and medical costs
⬆️ Maximum Cover Limits	Specific limits vary by plan for medical expenses, baggage, and cancellations
⚽ Adventure and Sports Cover	Cover available for high-risk activities like skiing and adventure sports
🖱️ Claims Submission Process	Claims can be submitted online with the required supporting documents
⏰ Average Claim Settlement Time	Within 10 working days after submission
❤️ Customer Support Availability	24/7 for emergency assistance; other support during business hours
📲 Mobile App and Digital Services	Mobile app and online tools available for policy management
⭐ Customer Reviews and Ratings	Customer reviews are available on various platforms
📊 Annual Premium Range	From $36 per month for International Essentials
📈 Exclusions and Limitations	Exclusions for pre-existing conditions, specific travel destinations
📉 Discounts and Promotions	Discounts available for Bupa Health members
💹 Policy Limits and Flexibility	Flexible policy options for duration and cover customization
🌎 Global Reach and Market Presence	Cover in over 210 countries through Zurich Insurance Group

Bupa Plan Comparison and Overview

🔎 Plan Option	📌 Features	📍 Min and Max Premium	📉 Cover Limits	📈 Exclusions	📊 Ideal For	🚨 Emergency Assistance	📲 Mobile App Offered	⭐ Discounts Available
🥇 International Plus	Comprehensive overseas cover, unlimited medical expenses, 24/7 emergency support, $12,000 luggage cover, $10,000 rental car excess, customizable trip cancellation, COVID-19 cover	Single: $50/month; Multi-Trip: $338/month	Medical: Unlimited; Luggage: $12,000; Rental Car: $10,000	Certain pre-existing conditions, high-risk activities	Full cover for international trips, including added benefits for high-risk activities	✅Yes	✅Yes	Up to 15% off for Bupa Health members
🥈 International Essentials	Essential cover for overseas trips, unlimited medical expenses, 24/7 emergency support, customizable cancellation, COVID-19 cover	Single: $36/month; Multi-Trip: $247/month	Medical: Unlimited; Luggage: Customizable	Standard exclusions	Basic international cover	✅Yes	✅Yes	Up to 15% off for Bupa Health members
🥉 Domestic	Cover within Australia, $6,000 luggage cover, $10,000 rental car excess, trip cancellation options, COVID-19 cover	Single: $68; Multi-Trip: $117/month	Luggage: $6,000; Rental Car: $10,000	Excludes high-risk activities without add-ons, and specific known travel disruptions	For domestic travelers, basic protection	✅Yes	✅Yes	Up to 15% off for Bupa Health members

Travel Insurance Plans and Cover Options

Bupa Travel Insurance has plans for both international and domestic travel needs. Each plan has unique benefits and customizable options to support different types of travel, from short local trips to extended overseas stays. Here’s a breakdown of the key plans and the specific cover areas.

International Plus

Ideal for extensive overseas trips, the International Plus plan has a comprehensive medical cover, including unlimited overseas medical expenses and 24/7 emergency support.

Cover extends to personal belongings, with a limit of up to $12,000, and offers protection for rental car excess up to $10,000.

The plan includes flexible limits for amendments for travelers concerned about unexpected cancellations or changes. The International Plus plan offers a 21-day cooling-off period, including specific COVID-19-related benefits.

🔎 Benefit/Feature	📌 Details
📉 Monthly Premium	$50.00 (Single trip for non-Bupa members)
📈 Multi-Trip Premium	$338.00 per month (for non-Bupa members)
📊 Medical Expenses (Overseas)	Unlimited cover includes emergency assistance
💹 Luggage and Personal Belongings	Up to $12,000
💱 Trip Changes/Cancellation	Flexible limits based on custom selection
🅰️ Rental Car Excess	Up to $10,000
🅱️ COVID-19 Cover	Included, covering specific COVID-19-related disruptions
📌 Cooling-Off Period	21 days
📍 Optional Add-Ons	Available for extra premium, including snow sports, high-value items, and adventure activities like scuba diving and rock climbing

International Essentials

This plan has essential cover for overseas travel with core protections like unlimited medical expenses and 24/7 emergency assistance. Cancellation cover is customizable and COVID-19 benefits are included. For non-Bupa members, the monthly premium for a single trip is $36, while a multi-trip policy costs $247.

🔎 Benefit/Feature	📌 Details
🅰️ Monthly Premium	$36.00 (Single trip for non-Bupa members)
🅱️ Multi-Trip Premium	$247.00 per month (for non-Bupa members)
📉 Medical Expenses (Overseas)	Unlimited cover includes emergency assistance
📈 Luggage and Personal Belongings	Up to $12,000
📊 Trip Changes/Cancellation	Customizable limits
💹 COVID-19 Cover	Included, with COVID-19-specific benefits
💱 Cooling-Off Period	21 days
📍 Optional Add-Ons	Available for added premium, covering specific needs such as extra cover for personal items or adventure sports

Annual Multi-Trip (International)

The travel insurance offers cover durations of 30, 45, or 60 days per trip within a year, with options that align with the International Plus or Essentials plan features. Optional add-ons, available for an extra premium, include additional cover for snow sports and higher item limits.

🔎 Benefit/Feature	📌 Details
📉 Cover Duration Options	30, 45, or 60 days per trip within one year
📈 Cover Options	Matches International Plus or Essentials plan features
📊 Optional Add-Ons	Available for an extra premium, including additional cover for snow sports and higher item limits

Domestic Plans

The Domestic plan offers cover for single trips and multi-trip options for travelers within Australia,, with luggage protection up to $6,000 and rental car excess cover up to $10,000.

It also has a cooling-off period and missed connections cover up to $3,000. Like other plans, COVID-19 benefits are available, with optional add-ons for extra protection.

🔎 Benefit/Feature	📌 Details
🅰️ Single Trip Premium	$68.00 (for non-Bupa members)
🅱️ Multi-Trip Premium	$117.00 per month (minimum 15 days per trip)
📉 Luggage and Personal Belongings	Up to $6,000
📈 Trip Changes/Cancellation	Flexible selection of cover amount
📊 Rental Car Excess	Up to $10,000
💹 Missed Connections	Up to $3,000
💱 COVID-19 Cover	Included, specific to COVID-19-related disruptions
📌 Cooling-Off Period	21 days
📍 Optional Add-Ons	Additional premium options include snow sports, adventure activities, and higher item limits

Annual Multi-Trip (Domestic)

The insurance provides cover durations of 15 or 30 days per trip within a year, with benefits matching the Domestic plan features. Optional add-ons, available for an additional premium, include increased item limits and coverage for specific needs.

🔎 Benefit/Feature	📌 Details
📉 Cover Duration Options	15 or 30 days per trip within one year
📈 Benefits	Same as the Domestic plan features
📊 Optional Add-Ons	Available for an additional premium, including increased item limits and other specific cover needs

Additional Benefits

Bupa Travel Insurance offers a range of coverage options designed to protect travelers from various disruptions and risks during their trips.

Trip-Related Cover

Each plan covers trip-related disruptions like medical expenses incurred during travel and the cost of trip cancellations or changes.
Medical cover includes the option for emergency repatriation for international plans, allowing travelers to be transported back to Australia if required.
Cancellation cover can be tailored, ensuring flexibility if travel plans need to be adjusted due to unforeseen circumstances.

Personal Belongings and Luggage

The International Plus plan includes up to $12,000 for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings, while the Domestic plan offers up to $6,000.
For higher-value items, there is an option to increase individual item limits, which is useful for electronics, jewelry, or sporting equipment.
A unique feature of the policy is the “Automatic Reinstatement of Sum Insured,” allowing the cover amount to reset after a claim, keeping travelers protected for their trip.

Adventure and High-Risk Activities Cover

Bupa Travel Insurance offers optional add-on cover under the International Plus and Domestic plans for travelers planning adventurous activities.
This add-on includes cover for snow sports like skiing and snowboarding and adventure sports like scuba diving, rock climbing, and parachuting.
The specific cover is also available for motorcycle or moped riding with two levels of protection based on engine capacity.
The cover supports high-risk activities for travelers engaged in active pursuits.

With tailored options for high-risk activities, travelers can enjoy peace of mind knowing they are covered for their adventurous pursuits.

Key Features and Benefits of Bupa Travel Insurance

Bupa Travel Insurance has several unique benefits to support travelers regardless of the scenario, from health emergencies to unexpected trip changes. Here’s a look at the standout features of Bupa Travel Insurance that help ensure a safe and supported travel experience.

Unique Selling Points and Add-On Options

Bupa has 24/7 emergency assistance for travelers on international trips, supporting medical and logistical needs. This includes coordination for overseas medical treatments and arranging emergency repatriation when necessary.

Policyholders can boost their protection by selecting additional options. These add-ons include cover for high-risk activities, such as snow sports or scuba diving, and increased item limits for personal belongings like electronics and jewelry.

Bupa’s international plans offer unlimited overseas medical expense coverage for COVID-19 diagnoses, ensuring that travelers access essential treatment. Benefits for COVID-19-related trip changes or cancellations are available, subject to specific policy terms and limitations.

Family and Group Travel Benefits

Bupa’s travel insurance considers family travel by offering cover options that accommodate multiple dependents under a single policy. This makes Bupa convenient and cost-effective for families and groups to access comprehensive travel protection.

In cases of a family emergency, such as a sudden illness or injury to a close family member, Bupa’s policies provide flexibility to cover additional expenses related to an early return home or accommodations for extended stays.

COVID-19 and Pandemic-Related Cover

Bupa’s plans cover extensive medical expenses for travelers who contract COVID-19 while overseas, including hospitalization and necessary treatments up to the plan’s limits.

Travelers who receive a COVID-19 diagnosis before their trip could be eligible for cover on amendment or cancellation costs, helping them recover pre-paid, non-refundable expenses. Bupa also extends cover to policyholders impacted by the illness of close family members, under certain conditions, supporting flexibility in travel plans.

The COVID-19 cover doesn’t apply if traveling to countries with an active “do not travel” warning or where government-imposed quarantine restrictions impact travel. Additionally, restrictions apply in situations involving mandatory government closures or isolation requirements for border travel.

Bupa Travel and Health Cover Overview

Bupa Travel Insurance has a few health cover benefits in terms of overseas medical expense protection and support for emergencies.

This health-focused cover ensures policyholders can access medical assistance while traveling. This benefit has provisions for emergency repatriation and covers certain pre-existing conditions under set criteria.

Medical Expense Cover

Bupa’s travel insurance includes unlimited overseas medical expense coverage in select plans, providing critical financial support for treatments and hospitalizations that could occur because of illness or injury while traveling.

The policy covers urgent treatment needs for dental expenses to relieve pain or restore essential function temporarily. These benefits are limited to necessary, unforeseen medical expenses incurred outside Australia, ensuring travelers can access care without major financial concerns.

Emergency Repatriation

In cases where an insured traveler’s medical situation requires returning to Australia for further treatment, Bupa’s policies cover emergency repatriation, coordinated through their emergency assistance network.

This provision is available when medically necessary and approved by the assistance team, allowing for safe and secure return arrangements. Bupa’s emergency support team is available 24/7 to help facilitate this process and assess the practicality of repatriation.

Inclusions for Pre-Existing Conditions

If certain criteria are met, travelers with pre-existing conditions could be eligible for coverage. Bupa’s automatic acceptance policy includes a list of pre-approved conditions, but each condition must meet specific eligibility requirements. Cover applies if:

The condition is on Bupa’s approved list of medical conditions.
No hospitalizations or specialist treatments were required in the past 12 months.
The condition is not currently under investigation or awaiting treatment.
All criteria outlined in Bupa’s Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) are satisfied.

A medical assessment is required if a condition does not meet automatic acceptance criteria. In such cases, additional premiums apply if the policy accepts the condition.

Pricing, Premiums, and Value for Money

Bupa Travel Insurance uses a structured pricing model that incorporates factors to calculate premiums based on travel risk, cover options, and personal needs.

Premiums reflect specific plan benefits, destination risk, and additional options, letting travelers choose a plan suited to their journey while understanding the cost structure involved.

General Pricing

International Plus Plan has extensive coverage on single trips, and the monthly premium for non-Bupa members is $50, with a standard excess of $250. The premium for multiple trips within the year is $338 per month.
International Essentials Plan has core protection and is priced at $36 per month for single trips (non-Bupa members), also with a $250 excess. For frequent travelers, the multi-trip premium is $247 monthly.
The Domestic Plan provides affordable cover for travel within Australia. For single trips, the premium is $68, while multi-trip plans, requiring a minimum 15-day travel duration, are available at $117 monthly, with a $25 excess.

Comparison of Price to Cover Ratios

Bupa’s pricing strategy balances cover depth with premium costs, aligning higher premiums with plans with more extensive benefits.

For example, the International Plus plan offers additional services like rental car excess cover, up to $12,000 for lost belongings, and extensive COVID-19-related protection, which justifies its higher price than the more streamlined Essentials and Domestic options.

Adjustments in premiums also occur when travelers opt for cover add-ons such as high-risk activities or increased personal item limits. Higher excess options can reduce monthly premiums, allowing policyholders to adjust their cost-to-cover ratio according to their needs.

Payment Flexibility

Bupa Travel Insurance has straightforward payment options where the premium, including applicable government charges like GST and stamp duty, is calculated upfront. The final payable amount is consolidated on the Certificate of Insurance for clarity.

Payment flexibility includes choices in excess levels, where travelers can choose higher excess amounts to reduce monthly premiums.

Additional premium adjustments might apply for optional add-ons, catering to travelers who require cover enhancements such as cruise or pre-existing medical condition cover.

Bupa Travel Insurance Discounts and Incentives

Bupa Travel Insurance has a few discounts and incentives to benefit existing Bupa members and loyal customers. Existing Bupa health insurance members can receive up to 15% off their travel insurance policies. This discount is automatically applied at purchase, making it easy for Bupa members to save on cover.

Through Bupa’s Life Rewards loyalty program, members can access exclusive offers and discounts across Bupa’s product range. These benefits include discounts on travel insurance and other services rewarding long-term members with increasing perks based on their membership level.

How Do I Apply For Travel Insurance with Bupa?

Applying for Bupa Travel Insurance can be completed online or in a Bupa branch, depending on your preference. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:

1. Step 1: Enter Trip Details

Provide essential information about your trip, including your destination, travel dates, and the cover plan you prefer (Comprehensive, Essential, or Domestic). This will help generate a preliminary quote based on your specific travel needs.

2. Step 2: Choose Additional Cover (if needed)

If your travel plans involve activities like snow sports, adventure activities, or cruises, select any relevant add-ons during the application process to ensure you’re fully protected.

3. Step 3: Review the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS)

Carefully read through the PDS to understand the coverage, exclusions, and limitations of the policy you’ve selected.

4. Step 4: Finalize Your Application

Provide your personal and payment details, and upload the required documents (e.g., proof of Australian residency). Once completed, save your confirmation and policy documents.

After purchasing, you have 14 days to cancel the policy for a full refund, as long as you haven’t started your trip or made a claim.

How Can I Claim For Travel Insurance with Bupa?

Bupa Travel Insurance has a structured claims process. Here’s a breakdown of how to file a claim, the documents needed, and the expected processing timeline.

Visit the Bupa claims website and enter your policy number and contact information listed on the policy.
Follow the guided steps on the website to complete the claim form.
For assistance, policyholders can call Bupa’s claim support team on the relevant phone number based on their policy’s issue date.
Claims can also be submitted via email if a phone call is not feasible.
Attach all relevant supporting documents, such as receipts and invoices as required in the claim form’s checklist.

If documents cannot be uploaded online, they can be mailed to the specified address, as indicated in the claims instructions.

Supporting Documentation Required

Proof of Purchase and Expenses

Submit receipts or invoices for any costs associated with the claim, such as medical treatment, accommodations, or replacement items.

Medical Records

For health-related claims, include medical documentation detailing the treatment received or hospital stays. Ensure records are from a certified medical practitioner.

Police or Incident Reports

In cases of loss or theft, a police report or an official incident report is required, proving the event occurred and detailing the items involved.

Claims Processing Time

Once a claim is submitted along with all required documents, Bupa will respond within 10 working days. During this time, claims are reviewed, and if additional information is necessary, the claimant will be notified.

After all information is provided and the review is complete, Bupa communicates a final decision on the claim, either with approval and settlement or an explanation if the claim is declined.

Can I add more than one person to my Bupa Travel Insurance Policy?

Bupa Travel Insurance has flexible travel insurance plans and covers multiple people on a single policy, accommodating individuals traveling with family members or dependents.

Who Can Be Added

Bupa’s travel insurance policies cover single travelers, couples, or families. When setting up the policy, travelers can select a family or couple plan, which adjusts cover benefits and limits to support the needs of all covered individuals.

Eligible family members and dependents can be added to the policy, providing peace of mind for group travel.

Adding People to an Existing Policy

During the initial policy purchase, policyholders can specify the number of travelers and select the appropriate plan type to match their group size.

If a policyholder wants to add someone after purchasing the policy, this can be done by contacting Bupa’s support team or updating details through the myBupa online portal.

Bupa Travel Insurance Upgrades and Downgrades

Bupa Travel Insurance lets policyholders upgrade or downgrade policies. Policyholders can adjust their cover when planning activities or trips that require additional protection. Here’s a guide to managing upgrades and downgrades with Bupa:

Upgrading Cover

Travelers can upgrade their policy to include extra protection for specific needs, such as adventure sports, cruise travel, or snow sports. These additions help ensure that activities beyond standard cover are fully protected.

Bupa recommends using the initial purchase platform or contacting their customer service team to apply for upgrades. Upgrades are generally easiest to arrange before the policy start date, but support is available to assist with any pre-departure changes.

Downgrading Cover

If certain covers are no longer necessary, policyholders may consider downgrading to a more basic plan. This option is particularly useful if travel plans change significantly after purchase.

Downgrade options CAN be restricted after the policy has started, so Bupa advises confirming eligibility for downgrades by contacting their customer support team directly.

Bupa Digital Tools and Apps

Bupa offers digital resources to help policyholders manage their insurance, with options accessible through the myBupa app and online platforms. While primarily focused on health insurance, myBupa provides essential functions for accessing account details and updating personal information, supporting users in managing their policies conveniently.

Using myBupa, users can access their account information, view policy details, and update their personal information. While travel insurance claims and policy adjustments are directed to Bupa’s website or customer support, myBupa is a helpful portal for basic account management.

For comprehensive travel insurance functions, Bupa recommends using its online tools or contacting support for assistance with claims and detailed policy management.

Bupa Travel Insurance Additional Services and Benefits

Bupa Travel Insurance offers a few additional services to support travelers through unexpected medical and non-medical situations. These services offer peace of mind and tailored support options for more comprehensive travel protection.

Medical and Emergency Assistance

Bupa provides 24/7 emergency medical assistance, covering urgent situations such as hospitalization, medical evacuation, and repatriation services.

Travelers can contact Bupa’s dedicated assistance hotline anytime they face health concerns abroad, ensuring timely support in critical moments.

Non-Medical Cover

Beyond medical assistance, Bupa covers personal accidents resulting in death or disability. Additional cover is available for personal belongings, protecting travelers from lost or damaged baggage or theft of important items such as passports or cash.

Personal liability cover is also included, which addresses property damage or accidental injury to others.

Additional Travel Protections

Bupa offers add-ons like trip cancellation cover for anyone who needs extra support, which reimburses non-refundable expenses if a trip is canceled due to illness, injury, or other specified events.

Travelers engaged in specialized activities, such as cruising, snow sports, or adventure sports, can select tailored protection packs to ensure comprehensive cover during these activities.

Legal and Security Assistance

Bupa’s additional benefits include legal assistance for travelers and anyone who faces legal issues abroad. Policyholders can also access daily hospital benefits for extended stays and, in certain plans, protection related to business travel risks, such as kidnapping and ransom assistance.

How to Switch to Bupa Travel Insurance

Switching to Bupa Travel Insurance from another provider requires attention to timing and cover details to avoid gaps. Bupa advises new customers to begin their Bupa policy only after their existing cover has been canceled, preventing any overlap that could complicate future claims. Here’s how to manage the switch effectively:

Before switching, check the end date of your existing policy to ensure there is no overlap or gap when transitioning to Bupa.
Reach out to Bupa’s customer service team to discuss your switch.
They can confirm when your new policy will begin and answer any questions about specific covers.
Coordinate the start date of your Bupa policy to align with the end of your current insurance, ensuring uninterrupted coverage.

Once enrolled, you can access Bupa’s online tools for policy management, making it easy to update details or make changes as needed.

Exclusions and Limitations of Bupa Travel Insurance

Bupa Travel Insurance has exclusions and limitations that define the scope of cover. These exclusions specify circumstances under which claims won’t be accepted, helping travelers understand the boundaries of their policy.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions

Claims for pre-existing conditions are not covered unless disclosed and approved during policy setup. Undisclosed or unapproved conditions are excluded.

Pregnancy-Related Exclusions

Cover is only available for unforeseen pregnancy-related events before the 24th week. Routine care, childbirth, and newborn expenses are excluded. Pregnancies with complications or assisted fertility treatments require medical approval for cover.

Failure to Take Reasonable Care

Claims are excluded if loss, injury, or damage could have been prevented by taking reasonable care.

Air Travel Limitations

Claims are only covered if the policyholder is a passenger on a licensed commercial aircraft; private or unlicensed flights are excluded.

Acts of War or Hostility

Claims due to war, rebellion, or civil unrest are not covered.

Radiation and Nuclear Contamination

Claims related to radiation, nuclear contamination, or nuclear devices are excluded.

Biological and Chemical Weapons

Incidents involving biological or chemical attacks are not covered.

Confiscation by Authorities

Losses due to confiscation or destruction by customs or government agencies are excluded.

Unlawful Acts and Government Intervention

Claims arising from illegal activities or government actions, such as sanctions or property seizures, are not covered.

Known Risks at the Time of Policy Issuance

Claims based on risks known or foreseeable when purchasing the policy are excluded.

It’s important for travelers to carefully review these exclusions and limitations to ensure they fully understand what is and isn’t covered by their policy.

How Do I Contact Bupa Travel Insurance Customer Support?

Bupa Travel Insurance provides multiple contact methods for customer support, both within Australia and internationally, ensuring travelers can reach assistance whenever needed.

24-Hour Emergency Assistance

Within Australia: Call 1800 119 412
Overseas: Call +61 7 3305 7497

Toll-Free Numbers (Country-Specific)

USA: 1833 545 3376
Canada: 1833 541 0281
UK: 0800 072 0091

New Zealand: 0800 451 169

For all other countries or if issues arise with the toll-free numbers, call directly at +61 2 8907 5201. For non-emergency support, reach Bupa via email at [email protected].

Customer Reviews and Satisfaction

🥇 Positive Experience with Claims

I bought Bupa’s travel insurance for my US vacation. Unfortunately, I had to file two claims: one for a missed connection that required an overnight stay and another for an injury that required hospitalization. Both claims were covered, and personnel handled them quickly. I would go with Bupa again. – Mike

🥈 Satisfied with Service in Cambodia

I used Bupa for health and travel insurance in Cambodia. I was happy with the service and felt safe traveling. – Susan

🥉 Excellent Customer Service and Customised Coverage

I’ve always had great customer service from Bupa. My travel insurance is customized to my needs, giving me peace of mind. – Nina

🏅 Affordable and Easy to Use

Travel insurance from Bupa is affordable and easy to use. I like their simple method and affordable cover. – Jack

How Do I Submit Feedback or Complaints?

Bupa Travel Insurance lets policyholders submit feedback or complaints using a few avenues. Here are the steps to follow:

Making a Complaint

Policyholders can contact Travel Insurance Partners directly, the primary contact for complaints, via phone, email, or mail. Travel Insurance Partners acknowledges complaints within 24 hours, or as quickly as possible, to assure policyholders that their issues are being taken seriously.

Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR)

Policyholders can escalate the complaint to the Internal Dispute Resolution process if the initial response is unsatisfactory. The process is overseen by an authorized representative, ensuring a comprehensive review of the complaint.

External Dispute Resolution with AFCA

Policyholders can contact the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) for unresolved complaints unresolved through IDR, an independent body offering no-cost dispute resolution.

AFCA’s decisions are binding on the insurer, providing policyholders with reliable recourse.

Bupa Travel Insurance Awards and Recognition

While Bupa’s travel insurance offer is new to the market, Bupa has received industry recognition for its broader insurance services.

For example, Bupa received the Outstanding Value Health Insurance award from Canstar in 2022, acknowledging its commitment to value and support for Australians amidst rising living costs.

Bupa has also earned multiple awards in a few health insurance categories. These recognitions reflect Bupa’s solid standing within the insurance industry, which extends into its travel insurance options.

Who Should Consider Bupa Travel Insurance?

Bupa Travel Insurance offers a range of plans to suit different types of travelers, whether you’re heading overseas or staying within Australia. For international travelers, the International Plus and Essentials plans provide comprehensive protection for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and more, with the Plus plan offering additional cover for pre-existing conditions and activities.

The Domestic Plan is designed for Australian residents traveling within Australia, covering trip disruptions, lost luggage, and emergency medical needs. Families and small groups can benefit from consolidated coverage under a single plan, while adventure travelers can add extra protection for activities like snow sports or motorcycling, ensuring tailored coverage for their specific needs.

Bupa Travel Insurance vs Australia Post Travel Insurance vs Nib Travel Insurance

🔎 Provider	🥇 Bupa Travel Insurance	🥈 Australia Post Travel Insurance	🥉 Nib Travel Insurance
🅰️ Plan Name	International Plus, International Essentials, Domestic, Annual Multi-Trip	International Comprehensive, International Basic, Domestic, Annual Multi-Trip	Comprehensive, Essentials, Annual Multi-Trip, Domestic
🅱️ Premium Range (Trip-Based or Annual)	From $36/month for Essentials, $50/month for Plus	From $133/month (Basic) to $277/month (Annual Multi-Trip)	Starting from $67/month for Essentials, $135/month for Comprehensive
📉 Cover Limits	Up to unlimited medical overseas, up to $12,000 luggage, $10,000 rental car excess	Unlimited overseas medical expenses (Comprehensive), up to $12,000 luggage cover	Unlimited medical overseas, up to $12,000 luggage, $5,000 rental excess for Comprehensive
📈 Key Cover Areas	Medical, cancellations, personal liability, emergency assistance, COVID-19 benefits	Medical, cancellation, luggage, liability, travel delay, rental car excess	Medical, cancellations, travel delays, rental vehicle excess
📊 Exclusions	Excludes high-risk activities without add-on, pregnancy-related past 24 weeks	Pre-existing conditions, high-risk activities without add-ons, pandemic-related government restrictions	Excludes pre-existing conditions unless specified; no cover for standard cancellations in Essentials
💹 COVID-19 Cover	Medical costs and trip disruptions for COVID-19	Includes medical and hospitalization costs; no cancellation cover due to COVID-19-related restrictions	Medical costs for COVID-19 in overseas plans, travel cost support for specific COVID-19 scenarios
❤️ Ideal For	Travelers seeking flexible add-ons for adventure activities and high cover limits	Travelers needing extensive medical cover abroad, families, frequent travelers	Budget-conscious travelers who need flexible and essential protection
⚽ Adventure Sports Cover	Add-on available for high-risk sports like skiing and diving	Optional add-ons for winter sports, motorcycling, cruising	Optional add-on available for high-risk activities
🚨 Emergency Assistance	24/7 emergency support	24/7 worldwide assistance through a team of doctors, case managers, and travel agents	24/7 emergency support and travel assistance
🖱️ Digital Access and Mobile App	Access via the myBupa app and online portal	Online claim management portal, accessible through Australia Post’s site; no dedicated app	Online access with no designated app for travel insurance, limited mobile options
⭐ Special Features	Discounts for Bupa health members, flexible limits on baggage and cancellations	Cover for certain pre-existing conditions, rental car excess, Schengen Visa-compliant (Comprehensive)	Automatically includes children, flexible cancellation costs, extensive COVID-19 travel support
⏰ Average Claim Settlement Time	Within 10 days of completing the documentation submission	Varies by case complexity	Varies, generally within 10 business days

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros	❌ Cons
Customizable limits for trip changes and cancellations	Limited pregnancy-related cover beyond 24 weeks
Rental car excess cover up to $10,000	No cover for routine medical treatments overseas
Choice of single-trip, multi-trip, and domestic plans	Limited travel delay cover on Essentials and Domestic plans
Up to $12,000 cover for personal belongings on International Plus plan	High-risk activities have additional premiums
Cover for trip disruptions due to COVID-19 in select plans	Personal liability cover not applicable to family members
Cover for medical and emergency assistance worldwide	Limited cover for pre-existing conditions unless disclosed and assessed

In Conclusion

Overall, Bupa Travel Insurance offers travelers robust support options with 24/7 emergency assistance, flexible plans, and added cover for activities like adventure sports.

Policyholders benefit from extensive medical expense coverage in international plans and options for personal items and cancellation protections. However, travelers must review exclusions concerning pre-existing conditions and specific activity limitations.

With flexible customization and options for high-risk activities, Bupa’s plans are well-suited for travelers seeking tailored insurance solutions. This makes Bupa a practical choice for those needing targeted cover within specified limits.

You might also like:

Bupa Travel Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bupa Travel Insurance cover COVID-19 issues?

Yes, Bupa Travel Insurance covers some COVID-19-related medical expenditures and trip cancellations.

How can I file a claim with Bupa Travel Insurance?

To file a claim, go to Bupa’s website, fill out the online form, and attach the necessary supporting papers. Alternatively, contact the claims support service for help.

Can I receive cover for domestic travel in Australia?

Yes, Bupa has a Domestic Plan that covers travel within Australia, including trip interruptions, lost luggage, and emergency medical emergencies.

What is the cooling-off time for Bupa Travel Insurance?

Bupa has a 14-day cooling-off period during which you can cancel your policy and receive a full refund if you haven’t started your trip or filed a claim.

Table of Contents