Southern Cross Travel Insurance Review
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) is an award-winning travel insurance provider renowned for a portfolio of plans for diverse groups, including international and domestic travelers, working professionals abroad, and seniors.
SCTI is recognized locally and internationally, boasting a history of industry awards reflecting its commitment to providing value-driven insurance solutions. A key strength of SCTI lies in its transparent policies and extensive cover for unforeseen events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage loss.
Southern Cross also has flexible premiums and excess, letting policyholders tailor their policies to fit specific needs. SCTI’s financial stability and in-house policy underwriting ensure reliable service and quick responses during emergencies.
SCTI’s reputation is built on a solid foundation of customer-centric values, consistently delivering positive experiences through its 24/7 emergency support and robust insurance offerings.
| 🔎 Date Established | 1982 (Southern Cross Travel Insurance) |
| 🏦 Headquartered | Melbourne, Australia |
| 🛡️ Regulation and Compliance | Regulated by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) - ABN 99 133 401 939, AFS License 331058 |
| 🌎 Type of Travel Insurance Plans Offered | International Comprehensive, Domestic, Working Overseas, Annual Multi-Trip |
| 📌 Key Cover Areas | Medical expenses, trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability, emergency evacuation |
| 🚨 Emergency Assistance Services | 24/7 worldwide emergency assistance |
| 🤕 COVID-19 Cover | Medical expenses, trip cancellation due to COVID-19, additional quarantine costs |
| 💶 Maximum Cover Limits | Unlimited for medical expenses, $25,000 for baggage, $1,000,000 for personal liability |
| 🏈 Adventure and Sports Cover | Optional cover for skiing, snowboarding, moped and motorbike riding |
| 📉 Claims Submission Process | Online claims portal through My SCTI |
| 📈 Average Claim Settlement Time | 10 working days |
| 📊 Customer Support Availability | 24/7 for emergency assistance, business hours for other queries |
| 💹 Mobile App and Digital Services | Mobile app available for claims, and online policy management through the client portal |
| ⭐ Customer Reviews and Ratings | 4.7/5, over 3,100 reviews |
| 💛 Annual Premium Range | Varies based on plan; indicative rates start from $387.02 per month for single adults <25 with the highest excess |
| ❌ Exclusions and Limitations | Pre-existing conditions, high-risk activities, travel to high-risk destinations |
| 🎁 Discounts and Promotions | Limited-time offers, such as luggage set giveaways |
| 🚩 Policy Limits and Flexibility | Options to select excess, customization for specific travel needs |
| 🌎 Global Reach and Market Presence | Covers travel to a wide range of international destinations |
Southern Cross Plan Comparison and Overview
| 🔎 Plan Option | 📌 Features | 💶 Min and Max Premium | 💵 Cover Limits | ❌ Exclusions | 🩷 Ideal For | 🚨 Emergency Assistance | 📲 Mobile App Offered | 🎉 Discounts Available |
| 🥇 International Comprehensive Single-Trip | Unlimited medical, trip cancellation, personal liability, optional adventure sports cover | From $387.02/month | Medical: Unlimited, Liability: $1M | Pre-existing conditions, risky activities | One-off international trips | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 🥈 International Comprehensive Annual Multi-Trip | Covers multiple trips, unlimited medical, trip cancellation, liability | From $443.91/month | Medical: Unlimited, Liability: $1M | Pre-existing conditions, risky activities | Frequent international travellers | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 🥉 International Medical Only | Unlimited medical, evacuation, no trip cancellation | From $175.88/month | Medical: Unlimited | Non-medical incidents, pre-existing conditions | Travellers focusing on medical cover | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 🏅 Domestic | Trip cancellations, baggage issues, no medical cover | From $121.81/month | Baggage: $15,000, Rental vehicle: $6,000 | Pre-existing conditions, natural disasters | Domestic travel within Australia | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
| 🎖️ Working Overseas | Medical, evacuation, cover for working abroad | From $416.37/month | Medical: Unlimited | Professional sports, elective procedures | Working abroad in office, retail, and manual jobs | ✅Yes | ✅Yes | ✅Yes |
Travel Insurance Plans and Cover Options
Southern Cross Travel Insurance plans with comprehensive cover for different travel scenarios.
International Comprehensive Plan
The International Comprehensive Plan has unlimited medical coverage. Thus, travelers are protected against unforeseen medical expenses during their trips.
The International Comprehensive plan also includes extensive trip cancellation and baggage protection, making it ideal for comprehensive cover for international journeys.
International Medical-Only
The International Medical-Only Plan offers essential medical and evacuation coverage. It caters to travelers who prioritize medical emergencies, including evacuation and hospitalization, without the additional costs for trip-related benefits.
International Comprehensive Multi-Trip Plan
Frequent travelers might prefer the International Comprehensive Multi-Trip Plan, which offers the same extensive benefits as the single-trip version but is designed for multiple trips within a year. This plan ensures uninterrupted protection for travelers embarking on numerous journeys annually.
Domestic Plan
Domestic travelers can opt for the Domestic Plan with robust protection for travel within Australia. It covers trip cancellations baggage issues, and offers peace of mind with its medical cover for emergencies during domestic travels.
Working Overseas Plan
The Working Overseas Plan for individuals working abroad, covering occupations from office-based roles to retail and healthcare.
This plan includes unlimited medical cover, trip cancellation options adjustable up to unlimited, and protection for personal belongings with the flexibility to increase cover for high-value items.
Additional benefits include specific motorbike use, skiing, and snowboarding provisions, ensuring that high-risk activities are comprehensively covered.
Southern Cross Travel Insurance Plans Compared
| 🔎 Plan | ⭐ Key Features | ❤️ Who It’s For | 💵 Starting Premium |
| 🥇 International Comprehensive | Unlimited medical cover, trip cancellation, baggage protection | Travelers needing full international cover | From $387.02/month |
| 🥈 Medical-Only | Essential medical and evacuation cover | Travelers prioritizing medical emergencies | From $175.88/month |
| 🥉 Multi-Trip Comprehensive | Annual multi-trip cover with comprehensive benefits | Frequent international travelers | From $443.91/month |
| 🏅 Domestic | Trip cancellations, baggage, medical cover within Australia | Domestic travelers | From $121.81/month |
| 🎖️ Working Overseas | Unlimited medical, trip cancellation, specific item cover | Professionals working abroad | From $416.37/month |
Key Features and Benefits of Southern Cross Travel Insurance
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has features for all travel needs, ensuring comprehensive protection for every journey. SCTI includes unlimited medical and evacuation coverage in most plans. This benefit ensures travelers are well-protected against unexpected medical expenses.
- SCTI lets dependent children be added to the policy at no extra cost on policies like the International Comprehensive Plan.
- SCTI provides 24/7 emergency assistance with immediate support from qualified medical advisers, which is crucial during emergencies.
- Flexibility is another key feature, with customizable excess options ranging from $0 to $250. This flexibility lets policyholders adjust their financial responsibility in the event of a claim, tailoring their premium and excess balance to suit personal preferences and budgets.
- SCTI offers optional add-ons such as skiing, snowboarding, and motorbike riding cover. These options extend the standard policy to include risks associated with these activities.
SCTI’s reputation is further cemented by industry recognition, including being named the Most Trusted Travel Insurance Brand by Reader’s Digest NZ in 2023 and 2024.
Optional Add-Ons
- Cruise Cover: For travelers embarking on cruises, including protection for cruise-specific risks.
- Motorbike Protection: Covering riders and passengers on two-wheeled vehicles under specific conditions.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Extending policy benefits to include these high-risk activities.
Southern Cross Travel and Health Cover Overview
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) provides detailed health coverage that protects travelers against unforeseen medical events while away from home.
One of the key aspects of their health coverage is that they offer unlimited emergency medical and evacuation coverage to safeguard policyholders from expensive healthcare costs during their travels.
The travel and health cover includes emergency treatment and medically necessary evacuation or repatriation, providing comprehensive support during critical situations.
For travelers with pre-existing medical conditions, SCTI requires a medical assessment as part of the application process. Conditions disclosed during this assessment might be eligible for cover upon approval, though an additional premium might be required.
SCTI also addresses pregnancy-related expenses under specific plans like the Working Overseas Plan. Cover extends up to $3,000 per pregnancy for unexpected maternity care, assisting with medical costs that arise during travel.
Key Health Cover Benefits
- Emergency Medical Evacuation: Unlimited cover for necessary medical evacuation or repatriation.
- Hospital Allowances: Daily cash allowances for hospital stays during emergencies.
- Emergency Dental Treatment: Up to $2,000 for urgent dental care.
- Pregnancy Cover: Up to $3,000 for unexpected pregnancy-related expenses.
In real-world scenarios, these benefits mean that travelers facing sudden illnesses or accidents can rely on SCTI’s robust health cover.
Whether it’s an emergency evacuation due to a serious health condition or assistance with hospital costs, SCTI ensures that travelers are not left financially vulnerable in medical crises.
Pricing, Premiums, and Value for Money
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has a transparent pricing structure that lets travelers balance their premiums with an appropriate excess amount.
The premium is the cost of the policy and varies according to the type of plan and the excess. Choosing a higher excess reduces the premium cost, making the policy more budget-friendly.
In contrast, a lower excess results in a higher premium but minimizes out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim. The excess is the initial amount the policyholder must pay when claiming. SCTI provides flexible options for excess amounts—$0, $100, and $250.
Opting for a $250 excess typically leads to the lowest premiums, while a $0 excess eliminates out-of-pocket expenses during a claim but increases the overall premium cost.
| 🔎 Plan | 💶 Starting Premium | 💵 Excess Options | ⭐ Key Value Aspects |
| 🥇 International Comprehensive | From $387.02/month | $0, $100, $250 | Unlimited medical cover, trip cancellation, baggage protection |
| 🥈 Medical-Only | From $175.88/month | $0, $100, $250 | Essential medical and evacuation cover |
| 🥉 Multi-Trip Comprehensive | From $443.91/month | $0, $100, $250 | Annual cover for multiple trips |
| 🏅 Domestic | From $121.81/month | $0, $100, $250 | Trip cancellation, baggage protection, domestic medical cover |
| 🎖️ Working Overseas | From $416.37/month | $0, $100, $250 | Unlimited medical, trip cancellation, personal belongings cover |
Travelers can optimize their premiums by selecting an excess that aligns with their financial comfort. For instance, a young professional traveling frequently for work can choose a higher excess to lower their monthly premium.
In contrast, a family might prefer a lower excess to minimize out-of-pocket emergency costs. SCTI’s pricing strategy is flexible enough for travelers to balance affordability and comprehensive coverage.
Southern Cross Travel Insurance Discounts and Incentives
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has discounts and incentives, like winning a Saben July Luggage Set. You’ll be entered into the draw when you purchase a travel insurance policy between November 4th and November 10th, 2024. automatically
This offer adds value by combining necessary travel cover with the opportunity to win high-quality luggage, perfect for frequent flyers or holidaymakers. SCTI also encourages partnerships through its affiliate program, letting individuals or businesses with a travel-focused audience earn referral fees.
Affiliates benefit from access to tailored marketing materials and tracking links, providing an additional revenue stream while promoting reliable travel insurance products.
How Do I Apply For Travel Insurance with Southern Cross?
When you apply for Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI0 you must consider a few factors to ensure a streamlined application and approval process.
First, potential applicants must be permanent residents of Australia and eligible for a Medicare card. Policyholders must also purchase the policy before leaving the country, as SCTI’s cover is for travel outside Australia, with a return journey included.
Before applying, review your current insurance policies to avoid overlapping cover like health, home, or credit card insurance to ensure you’re not paying for duplicate benefits.
Evaluate your travel plans, considering destination, trip duration, and any pre-existing medical conditions that may influence the premium.
Application Process
Choose an appropriate plan based on your travel needs.
- If you have pre-existing conditions, complete the assessment for potential cover.
- Provide personal identification, travel itinerary, and financial information such as your Australian bank account and email address.
- Policies can be bought online at www.scti.com.au or by calling SCTI’s customer service.
Use the 14-day free cooling-off period to review your policy. You can cancel within this period for a full refund if no claims have been made.
How Can I Claim For Travel Insurance with Southern Cross?
When submitting a claim with Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI), you must know the exact steps and required documentation. Claims can be submitted via the My SCTI portal or by mail, depending on the claimant’s preference.
Conditions and Considerations
- Submit claims as soon as possible after the incident.
- Missing documents can delay processing. Essential documents include receipts, medical reports, police reports for lost items, and proof of travel.
- Claims related to pre-existing conditions require prior approval and an additional premium.
Steps to Submit a Claim
Log in to My SCTI through the portal.
- Select the relevant policy.
- Click on ‘Make a claim’ for the selected policy.
- Provide detailed information about the claim event.
- Attach Documents: Upload all relevant supporting documents (receipts, medical reports, etc.).
- Review the information, agree to the declaration, and submit the claim.
Alternatively, claims can be submitted by completing the form on the SCTI website or mailing the documents to SCTI’s office in South Melbourne.
Required Documentation
- Receipts and Proof of Purchase for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
- Medical Reports for claims involving medical expenses.
- Police Reports are required for theft or lost items.
- Travel Itinerary and Boarding Passes as proof of travel when the incident occurred.
Can I add more than one person to my Southern Cross Travel Insurance Policy?
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) lets policyholders include multiple people under a single policy, streamlining the process for families and groups traveling together.
This option lets the policyholder add spouses, dependent children, and other close family members if they meet specific criteria.
Dependent children, defined as those under 21 years old, unmarried, and financially reliant on an adult listed on the Certificate of Insurance, can be added at no extra cost under policies like the International Comprehensive and Domestic plans.
Including dependents simplifies travel insurance and ensures comprehensive coverage without needing multiple policies.
While children are covered at no additional premium, they share benefit limits with the insured adults. For instance, if the policy includes a $1,000 benefit for delayed baggage, this amount is shared across all covered individuals rather than allocated per person.
Key Benefits of Shared Cover
- Dependent children under 21 are covered at no extra premium.
- Cover extends to stepchildren, foster children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews.
- Shared benefit limits between adults and children on the same policy.
- Simplified policy management with all family members listed under one Certificate of Insurance.
- Post-purchase adjustments are possible by contacting SCTI to add additional family members.
- Cover tailored to the unique needs of families traveling together.
Southern Cross Travel Insurance Upgrades and Downgrades
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) lets policyholders upgrade their plans by adding optional covers such as cruise, skiing, or motorbike use.
Changing the base plan (e.g., switching from an international to a domestic plan) requires applying for a new policy rather than adjusting the current one, ensuring that any adjustments remain within the scope of the original cover.
Upgrades can be made by contacting SCTI before departure, letting travelers enhance their cover based on their needs. For instance, those who plan to participate in snow sports or ride motorbikes can add specific protections to their existing policy.
Conversely, downgrading the cover, such as removing optional extras, is also possible before the trip starts. Downgrades might lower the premium but could reduce cover limits and exclusions.
Available Upgrades
| 🅰️ Upgrade Option | 🅱️ Description |
| 🛳️ Cruise Cover | Covers cruise-specific events |
| 🚲 Moped and Motorbike Cover | Protection for incidents involving mopeds/motorbikes |
| ❄️ Skiing and Snowboarding | Covers snow sports activities |
| 🌟 Increased Cover Limits | Higher limits for existing benefits |
Considerations
- All changes must be finalized before the trip starts.
- Upgrades increase premiums; downgrades could decrease them.
- Understand how changes affect limits and exclusions.
Southern Cross Digital Tools and Apps
Southern Cross Travel Insurance offers a My SCTI app with precise functionalities that simplify policy management and claims handling for travelers. The app is available for iOS (version 14 and above) and Android (version 8 Oreo and above) devices.
The app’s main feature is instant claims submission, letting users upload documents and submit claims directly through the app, with reimbursements processed within 10 working days. This functionality is beneficial during trips because it allows quick action if issues arise.
Users can check their benefit balances to clarify remaining cover limits and help manage their insurance. The app also facilitates prior approval requests for healthcare services, ensuring policyholders know what services are covered before incurring expenses.
Key Features
- Upload documents and submit claims directly.
- Monitor annual benefit limits.
- Request approvals for medical services to ensure cover.
- View and present Member Card numbers for healthcare services.
- Update personal details and track policy information.
Southern Cross Travel Insurance Additional Services and Benefits
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) offers additional services, including some of the following
24/7 Emergency Assistance
- Immediate response for medical emergencies.
- Coordination of medical evacuations and repatriation.
- Assistance in finding local healthcare providers.
- Communication with family during critical incidents.
- Support with emergency dental care.
- Guidance on lost or stolen travel documents.
Cruise Cover
- Medical and evacuation expenses for cruise-specific incidents.
- Cover for cancellations and lost deposits.
- Protection for damaged or lost baggage.
- Personal items cover for theft or damage.
- Rental vehicle excess cover for cruise-related trips.
- Emergency dental treatment during cruises.
- Funeral expenses, if required, during the trip.
- Pet services and childcare expenses in case of disruptions.
- Assistance with rescheduling missed ports or tours.
Snow Cover
- Medical expenses for snow sports injuries.
- Cover for skiing and snowboarding activities.
- Evacuation cover for accidents on the slopes.
- Protection for lost or damaged snow gear.
- Assistance with refunds for unused ski passes due to injury.
- Cover for third-party liability during snow sports.
Affiliate Program
- Earn referral fees by promoting SCTI policies.
- Access to personalized marketing materials.
- Use of tracking links for affiliate performance.
- Training and support from Growth Ops.
- Dedicated affiliate management and support team.
- Insights into travel insurance trends to improve promotions.
- Opportunities to feature exclusive offers on your platform.
Seniors Travel Insurance
- No age limit for cover, accommodating travelers up to 118 years old.
- Medical and evacuation cover tailored to senior needs.
- Protection for personal items and baggage.
- Special provisions for pre-existing medical conditions.
- Flexibility in choosing trip cancellation cover based on travel costs.
Vulnerable Customer Services
- Customized support for individuals facing family violence.
- Financial hardship assistance with payment flexibility.
- Accessible services for customers with disabilities or language barriers.
How to Switch to Southern Cross Travel Insurance
Switching to Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) requires canceling your current policy and starting anew with SCTI. Unlike other services, there’s no direct “switching” process; you must cancel your existing policy and start with SCTI.
Cancel Current Policy
- Contact your current insurance provider.
- Follow their procedures for policy cancellation.
- Be aware of any fees or potential refunds.
Initiate SCTI Policy
- Visit SCTI’s website or contact customer support to choose the appropriate policy.
- Ensure your new policy starts immediately after canceling your old policy to avoid cover gaps.
Cooling-Off Period
- SCTI offers a 14-day free look period.
- You can cancel the new policy within this time for a full refund, provided no claims have been made, and the trip hasn’t started.
Key Considerations
- Align policy dates carefully to maintain continuous coverage.
- Contact SCTI if you need guidance on selecting a plan or understanding policy terms.
Exclusions and Limitations of Southern Cross Travel Insurance
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) policies have exclusions and limitations depending on the type of plan. Each plan’s specific exclusions are outlined in the policy documents available on SCTI’s website, ensuring transparency for policyholders.
Key Exclusions by Plan
International Comprehensive Single-Trip
- Non-disclosed Pre-existing Conditions
- Professional sports, motorsports, hunting, abseiling, and paragliding are excluded.
- Incidents involving alcohol or drugs.
- No cover for destinations under ‘Do not travel’ advisories when the policy was purchased.
- Pregnancy After 24 Weeks
International Comprehensive Annual Multi-trip
- Losses from acts of war, terrorism, or civil unrest.
- Claims affected by government intervention.
- Excludes claims from intentional self-harm or suicide.
- Any claims arising from nuclear events.
International Medical Only
- Travel to areas with known risks like natural disasters or political unrest.
- Drug or Alcohol-related Medical Issues
- Excludes cosmetic or elective surgeries.
Domestic Plan
- Biological and Chemical Incidents
- No cover for incidents arising from unlawful acts.
- Conditions like sexually transmitted infections are excluded unless disclosed.
Working Overseas Plan
- Excludes HIV-related claims.
- Elective cosmetic procedures are not covered.
- Pregnancy Termination
How Do I Contact Southern Cross Travel Insurance Customer Support?
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) offers multiple channels for customer support, including a live chat feature on their website, email, and phone. They have received a 4.7 out of 5 rating from 3,163 reviews across various platforms, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction.
Contact Methods
| 🔎 Method | 📌 Details | 📍 Operating Hours (AEST) | ⏰ Average Response Time |
| 🥰 Live Chat (Scout) | Access via the Kea icon on the bottom right of the SCTI website. | Mon–Fri: 8:30 am–7 pm, Sat: 9 am–6 pm | Immediate during operating hours |
| [email protected] | Mon–Fri: 8:30 am–7 pm, Sat: 9 am–6 pm | Within 24 hours | |
| ☎️ Phone | 1800-196-484 (within Australia), +61 1800 196 484 (from overseas) | Mon–Fri: 8:30 am–7 pm, Sat: 9 am–6 pm | Immediate during operating hours |
24/7 Emergency Assistance
SCTI provides round-the-clock emergency assistance for urgent situations.
Policyholders can contact the emergency team at +61 2 9191 1180 for International Comprehensive, Annual Multi-trip, Working Overseas, and International Medical Only policies or +61 2 9293 7999 for Domestic policies.
Remember, when calling, you must have your policy number and a contact phone number ready.
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
🥇 Great Support for Pre-existing Conditions
With my pre-existing medical problem daughter, I visited Bali and Kuala Lumpur. Only Southern Cross Travel Insurance covered her illness. The personnel was kind, and premiums were affordable. Southern Cross quickly processed my daughter’s friend’s medical claim while on vacation. I recommend them and will use them again. – Mike
🥈 Compassionate Assistance During Family Tragedy
While in India, my father-in-law died unexpectedly. Southern Cross Travel Insurance was kind and helpful at this trying time. They helped us change our vacation arrangements and paid for it. Their assistance was amazing, and I strongly recommend them. – Justin
🥉 Reliable Service for Unforeseen Injuries
Southern Cross Travel Insurance has always been solid for me. An unforeseen injury forced me to cancel a vacation abroad. They processed claims quickly and easily. I appreciate their rapid service and will use them again. – Nick
🏅 Support During Medical Emergency Abroad
I accidentally shattered my leg and ankle in Cambodia. Southern Cross Travel Insurance supported me along. I received medical attention and had zero out-of-pocket expenses during the ordeal. – AJ
How Do I Submit Feedback or Complaints?
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) values policyholder feedback, using it to refine its services. They have multiple channels for submitting feedback or complaints, ensuring every customer concern is heard and addressed.
How to Submit Feedback
- Email: Send your feedback to [email protected].
- Phone: Call SCTI at 1800-196-484 (or +61 1800 196 484 from overseas).
- Live Chat: Use the Scout live chat feature on their website by clicking the Kea icon.
Complaints Process
Initial Submission
- Contact SCTI via phone or email.
- If the issue isn’t resolved immediately, it will be escalated for further review.
Internal Review
- SCTI’s team will review the complaint thoroughly.
- Complaints are typically resolved within 30 calendar days. If more time is needed, they will notify you by email.
Escalation to AFCA
If unsatisfied with the resolution or SCTI hasn’t resolved the complaint within 30 days, you can escalate it to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).
AFCA provides an independent review with binding decisions. Contact AFCA at 1800-931-678 or visit afca.org.au.
Southern Cross Travel Insurance Awards and Recognition
Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has earned multiple awards for its excellence in travel insurance services. Recognitions include winning International Travel and Health Insurer of the Year at the 2022 ITIJ Awards and being a finalist in 2023 and 2024.
SCTI has also won the Travel Insurance Award at the com.au Awards from 2017 to 2024, reflecting consistent customer satisfaction. At the Finder Travel Insurance Awards, it was named the best in several categories in 2023 and highly commended in 2024.
SCTI has been recognized for outstanding value in multiple areas, including International, Seniors, and Domestic Travel Insurance by Canstar, and for its exceptional value in various insurance types by Mozo Experts Choice Awards.
Who Should Consider Southern Cross Travel Insurance?
International Comprehensive Single-Trip Plan
Best for travelers taking a one-off international trip needing extensive cover for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and optional high-risk activities like skiing or cruising.
- Unlimited medical and evacuation cover.
- Optional add-ons for specific activities.
International Comprehensive Annual Multi-Trip Plan
Ideal for frequent travelers, including business professionals or those visiting family abroad multiple times a year.
- Covers multiple trips up to 30, 60, or 90 days per journey.
- Includes medical evacuation and trip changes.
International Medical Only Plan
Designed for budget-conscious travelers focusing on medical cover in regions with high healthcare costs.
- Unlimited medical expense cover.
- Excludes non-medical incidents like cancellations.
Domestic Plan
Suitable for those traveling within Australia who want protection against trip disruptions, baggage loss, and rental vehicle excess.
- Covers trip cancellations and baggage issues.
- Leverages the Australian healthcare system, excluding medical cover.
Working Overseas Plan
Perfect for individuals working abroad in various sectors, offering protection against work-related travel risks.
- Medical and evacuation cover.
- Covers specific work-related travel interruptions and liabilities.
Plan Suitability Table
| 🔎 Traveler Type | ⭐ Recommended Plan | 💛 Why |
| 📉 Solo Travellers | International Comprehensive Single-Trip | Comprehensive medical and trip cover; optional activity add-ons |
| 📈 Frequent Flyers | International Comprehensive Annual Multi-Trip | Covers multiple trips annually with extensive medical and trip cover |
| 📊 Budget-Conscious | International Medical Only | Focuses on unlimited medical cover, excluding non-medical incidents |
| 💹 Domestic Travellers | Domestic Plan | Protection for trip disruptions within Australia, no need for medical cover |
| 📉 Working Professionals Abroad | Working Overseas Plan | Tailored for work-related travel risks and medical emergencies |
Southern Cross Travel Insurance vs 1Cover Travel Insurance vs Tick Travel Insurance – a Comparison
| 🔎 Provider | 🥇 Southern Cross Travel Insurance | 🥈 1Cover Travel Insurance | 🥉 Tick Travel Insurance |
| 📉 Plan Name | International Comprehensive, Annual Multi-Trip, Medical Only, Domestic, Working Overseas | Single Trip, Annual Multi-Trip, Domestic, Comprehensive, Medical Only | Single Trip, Domestic, International |
| 📈 Premium Range (Trip-Based or Annual) | From $121.81/month for Domestic, from $175.88/month for Medical Only | From $115.20 per month on Domestic Plans | From $72.49 per month for domestic, $62.51 per month for international |
| 📊 Cover Limits | Medical: Unlimited, Baggage: $15,000 to $25,000, Liability: $1M | Unlimited for medical cover, varying limits for other components | Unlimited medical expenses, up to $20,000 for cancellation, $3 million for personal liability |
| 💹 Key Cover Areas | Medical, trip cancellation, baggage loss, personal liability, evacuation | Medical Cover, Trip Cancellation/Interruption, Baggage Loss, Personal Liability, Emergency Evacuation | Medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, personal liability, emergency evacuation |
| ❌ Exclusions | Pre-existing conditions, high-risk sports, travel to high-risk areas | Pre-existing conditions, high-risk destinations, pandemic exclusions except for COVID-19 | Pre-existing conditions travel against medical advice, high-risk destinations, unlawful acts, the influence of alcohol or drugs |
| 🤕 COVID-19 Cover | Medical, cancellations, quarantine expenses | Medical costs and quarantine expenses | Medical expenses, trip cancellation, and quarantine costs related to COVID-19 under Standard and Top policies |
| ❤️ Ideal For | International, and domestic travelers, frequent flyers, working abroad | Domestic, International, Frequent Travellers, and anyone who wants to add cover for adventurous activities | Domestic and international travelers, family plans, adventure add-ons |
| 🏈 Adventure Sports Cover | Optional for skiing, snowboarding, motorbike riding | Available as add-ons (Snow Cover and Winter Sports) | 90+ sports and activities, winter sports cover available as an upgrade |
| 🚨 Emergency Assistance | 24/7 worldwide emergency support | 24/7 emergency assistance, including medical and non-medical support | 24/7 emergency assistance |
| 📲 Digital Access and Mobile App | Yes, mobile app for claims, policy management | No app; only offers the online portal | No app for travel insurance; an online portal for policy management, claims, etc. |
| 🎉 Special Features | Family cover, custom excess options, dependent children included | Add-ons for sports, cruise, car rental, extensive medical cover | Affordable plans, child dependents <18 travel for free, flexible plan options |
| ⏰ Average Claim Settlement Time | Typically 5 working days | 10 business days | 10-15 working days |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Family policies include dependent children at no additional cost | High-risk sports need an optional add-on to cover |
| Flexible excess options to tailor premiums | Common pregnancy-related claims have limited cover |
| Multi-trip annual plans are available for frequent travelers | Professional sports and hazardous activities are not covered |
| Optional cover for activities like skiing and motorbiking | Pre-existing conditions require a separate assessment |
| Easy digital claims submission through the mobile app | Cover limits apply to specific items like baggage and electronics |
| High personal liability limits | Elective procedures are not covered |
In Conclusion
Southern Cross Travel Insurance offers flexible plans for domestic and international travel, with single-trip and multi-trip options. The online quote system helps users assess costs easily, and flexible excess options allow for premium adjustments. Coverage includes medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage, pregnancy, and COVID-19 incidents, with add-ons like adventure sports cover. Their 24/7 emergency assistance adds peace of mind. While the app focuses on health insurance, it’s less tailored for travel needs. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for families, frequent travelers, and those with specific needs.
You might also like:
- Tick Travel Insurance
- Travel Direct Travel Insurance
- World Nomads Travel Insurance
- World2Cover Travel Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my Southern Cross Travel insurance while traveling?
Yes, insurance extensions are available if requested before the existing policy ends. These extensions are subject to approval by SCTI and limits could apply.
Does Southern Cross Travel Insurance provide yearly multi-trip policies?
Yes, SCTI has annual multi-trip insurance for regular travelers and covers several trips yearly.
How can I change my personal information on my Southern Cross Travel Insurance policy?
To change your personal information, log into your SCTI client portal on the website or contact the customer support team.
Are family members covered by the same Southern Cross Travel Insurance policy?
Yes, family insurance is available covering two adults and their dependent children traveling together.
