Travel Direct Travel Insurance Review
Travel Direct Travel Insurance is an Australian-based insurance provider committed to safeguarding travelers against unforeseen challenges. Underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd and distributed by Nib Travel Services, Travel Direct offers a robust platform for managing the unpredictable aspects of travel.
Established in 2005, the insurer has consistently enhanced its services, focusing on the evolving needs of travelers. Travel Direct’s mission centers around providing confidence and letting travelers focus on their journey while insurance handles potential issues like delayed luggage, medical emergencies, and much more.
| 🔎 Attribute | 📌 Details |
| 📍 Date Established | 2005 |
| 🏦 Headquartered | Sydney, Australia |
| 🛡️ Regulation and Compliance | Underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd and distributed by nib Travel Services, both regulated by APRA |
| 🩷 Type of Travel Insurance Plans Offered | Domestic Travel Insurance, International Travel Insurance (The Works and The Basics), Annual Multi-Trip |
| 📉 Key Cover Areas | Medical cover, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, personal liability, emergency evacuation |
| 📈 Emergency Assistance Services | 24/7 emergency medical assistance is available |
| 📊 COVID-19 Cover | Cover for trip cancellations, medical costs, and related quarantine expenses due to COVID-19 |
| 💹 Maximum Cover Limits | Medical expenses up to $50,000, baggage up to $4,000, cancellation costs up to chosen limit |
| ⚽ Adventure and Sports Cover | Available for activities such as snow sports, with specific add-ons for high-risk activities |
| 🖱️ Claims Submission Process | Claims can be submitted online through the Travel Direct portal, with required documents like receipts and medical reports |
| ⏰ Average Claim Settlement Time | Claims are typically processed within 10 business days, depending on the complexity of the claim |
| 🥰 Customer Support Availability | Monday to Friday: 9 am – 6 pm; 24/7 for emergencies |
| 📲 Mobile App and Digital Services | No dedicated mobile app; an online portal for policy management and claims tracking |
| 🫶 Customer Reviews and Ratings | Average rating of 4.5/5 based on customer feedback from various review platforms |
| 💶 Annual Premium Range | From approximately $166 for single trips, varying based on cover and traveler age |
| 💵 Exclusions and Limitations | Pre-existing medical conditions, certain high-risk activities, travel to countries with a "Do Not Travel" warning |
| 💷 Discounts and Promotions | Discounts for families, groups, and loyalty programs |
| 🖇️ Policy Limits and Flexibility | Options for customizing cover and flexibility in policy duration; annual plans cover multiple trips within specified limits |
Travel Direct Plan Comparison and Overview
| Plan Option | 📌 Features | 📊 Min and Max Premium | 📈 Cover Limits | 📉 Exclusions | ❤️ Ideal For | 🚨 Emergency Assistance | ☎️ Mobile App Offered | 🎉 Discounts Available |
| 🥇 Domestic Travel Insurance | Domestic cover; cancellation; medical evacuation; luggage; liability | From $166 per trip for single under 25 with standard excess | Cancellation: chosen limit; Medical evac: $50,000; Luggage: $4,000 max; Liability: $300,000 | Existing conditions not covered; no cruises; residents under 75 only | Anyone travelling within Australia | ✅Yes | None | ✅Yes |
| 🥈 International Travel Insurance - The Works | Comprehensive international; unlimited medical; cancellation; luggage; liability | From $260 per trip for single under 25 with standard excess | Cancellation: chosen limit; Medical expenses: Unlimited; Luggage: $12,000 max; Liability: $2.5M | Existing conditions not covered; residents under 75 only | Travellers who need comprehensive cover | ✅Yes | None | ✅Yes |
| 🥉 International Travel Insurance - The Basics | Basic international; unlimited medical; cancellation; luggage; liability | From $209 per trip for single under 25 with standard excess | Cancellation: chosen limit; Medical expenses: Unlimited; Luggage: $2,000 max; Liability: $1M | Existing conditions not covered; some benefits not insured; residents under 75 | Travellers under 75 who want budget cover | ✅Yes | None | ✅Yes |
| 🏅 Annual Multi-Trip | Unlimited trips for 12 months; trips up to 35 days; domestic and international cover | From $418 per year for single under 25 with standard excess | Cancellation: chosen limit; Medical expenses: Unlimited; Luggage: $12,000 max; Liability: $2.5M | Existing conditions not covered; trips max 35 days; residents under 75 | Frequent travellers who need annual cover at a discounted price | ✅Yes | None | ✅Yes |
Travel Insurance Plans and Cover Options
Travel Insurance Plans and Cover Options offer tailored protection for a variety of travel needs, whether you’re exploring within Australia or venturing abroad, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.
Domestic Travel
Domestic Travel Insurance covers residents traveling within Australia, protecting policyholders against events like trip cancellations, luggage loss, and rental vehicle excess. This plan is for individuals under 75 and focuses on financial security during domestic journeys.
| 🔎 Benefit | 📍 Cover/Limit | 📌 Notes |
| 📉 Cancellation and additional expenses | Chosen limit | Agent's cancellation fees sub-limit: $2,000 |
| 📈 Emergency travel arrangements | $10,000 | N/A |
| 📊 Medical evacuation and repatriation | $50,000 | N/A |
| 💹 Travel delay | $500 (limit $250 per 24 hrs) | N/A |
| 📉 Missed connection (special events) | $2,000 | N/A |
| 📈 Rental vehicle insurance excess | $6,000 | N/A |
| 📊 Luggage and personal effects | $4,000 | N/A |
| 💹 Personal liability | $300,000 | N/A |
| 📉 Premium (per month for single trip <25) | From $166 | Standard excess applies |
International Travel – The Works and Basics
International Travel Insurance includes two main plans: The Works and The Basics. The Works extensively covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, making it ideal for comprehensive protection seekers.
The Basics Plan has an essential cover, targeting budget-conscious travelers who still want basic protection against key risks like medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
International Travel – The Works – Summary of Benefits
| 🔎 Benefit | 📌 Cover/Limit | 📍 Notes |
| 📉 Overseas medical expenses | Unlimited | N/A |
| 📈 Trip cancellation | Chosen limit | Agent's cancellation fees sub-limit: $2,000 |
| 📊 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Unlimited | N/A |
| 💹 Personal liability | $2,500,000 | N/A |
| 📉 Luggage and personal effects | $12,000 | Individual item limits apply |
| 📈 Rental vehicle insurance excess | $6,000 | N/A |
| 📊 Coronavirus travel costs | $2,500 | N/A |
| 💹 Premium (per month for single trip <25) | From $260 | Standard excess applies |
International Travel – The Basics – Summary of Benefits
| 🔎 Benefit | 📌 Cover/Limit | 📍 Notes |
| 📉 Overseas medical expenses | Unlimited | N/A |
| 📈 Trip cancellation | Chosen limit | No cover for agent's fees |
| 📊 Medical evacuation and repatriation | $250,000 | N/A |
| 💹 Personal liability | $1,000,000 | N/A |
| 📉 Luggage and personal effects | $2,000 | Lower individual item limits |
| 📈 Rental vehicle insurance excess | $6,000 | N/A |
| 📊 Coronavirus travel costs | $2,500 | N/A |
| 💹 Premium (per month for single trip <25) | From $209 | Standard excess applies |
Annual Multi-Trip
The Annual Multi-Trip Plan is available for anyone traveling frequently, covering multiple yearly trips. This plan is convenient for those who travel often, offering cover for both domestic and international trips lasting up to 35 days each.
| 🔎 Benefit | 📌 Cover/Limit | 📍 Notes |
| 📉 Overseas medical expenses | Unlimited | Cover per trip, up to 35 days each |
| 📈 Trip cancellation | Chosen limit | N/A |
| 📊 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Unlimited | N/A |
| 💹 Personal liability | $2,500,000 | N/A |
| 📉 Luggage and personal effects | $12,000 | Includes emergency luggage |
| 📈 Premium (per month for single trip <25) | From $418 | Unlimited trips per year |
Key Features and Benefits of Travel Direct Travel Insurance
Travel Direct Travel Insurance has comprehensive features that provide travelers with extensive protection and flexibility.
- Travel Direct provides unlimited overseas medical expenses, ensuring travelers receive necessary medical care without worrying about financial limits. The plan includes cover for medical evacuation and repatriation, vital for emergencies requiring transportation to suitable medical facilities or back home.
- The 24/7 emergency assistance team is available to support policyholders in crises, offering immediate guidance and coordination for medical and travel-related emergencies.
Recognizing the global travel impacts of COVID-19, Travel Direct includes specific cover for coronavirus-related disruptions. This includes cancellation or additional travel expenses if diagnosed with COVID-19 and quarantine-related costs during trips.
Additional Options and Benefits
Travelers engaging in snow sports can opt for the Snow Sports Cover. This add-on covers non-refundable ski lift passes, equipment hire, and tuition fees if the trip is disrupted by illness or injury. Moreover, Travel Direct covers accompanying children at no additional premium, making it cost-effective for families. Group travel options offer discounted policies for schools, clubs, or large travel groups.
Furthermore, The policy also covers over 150 activities like high-risk sports, giving adventurous travelers peace of mind knowing they are protected during their activities.
Specific Add-Ons
Golf Equipment Cover: Travellers can also opt for cover of specific high-value items like golf equipment, ensuring they are protected against loss or damage during the trip.
Travel Direct Travel and Health Cover Overview
Travel Direct offers extensive health and medical cover designed to safeguard travelers during their journeys.
- Cover includes unlimited medical evacuation and repatriation, essential for cases requiring urgent transportation due to severe medical conditions. This type of cover ensures travelers can safely return home or transfer to an appropriate medical facility abroad.
- Unlimited overseas medical expenses cover the cost of hospital stays, consultations, and treatments for unforeseen illnesses or injuries. Dental expenses for sudden acute pain are covered up to $1,000.
- A 24/7 emergency assistance team supports policyholders by arranging medical care, providing guidance, and coordinating logistics during crises, enhancing the traveler’s safety and comfort.
- Automatically covered pre-existing medical conditions, like asthma or diabetes, are included if specific criteria are met.
Pregnancy-related complications up to the 26th week are covered if the issue arises unexpectedly after purchasing the policy. In addition, Cover extends to emergency travel expenses for a friend or relative to accompany the insured, enhancing support during severe health situations.
Key Benefits
- Unlimited medical evacuation and repatriation
- Unlimited overseas medical expenses
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- $1,000 cover for sudden acute dental pain
- Cover for over 40 automatically covered pre-existing conditions
- Pregnancy-related illness covers up to the 26th week
- Emergency travel expenses for accompanying a friend or relative
Pricing, Premiums, and Value for Money
Travel Direct Travel Insurance offers policies that suit any type of travel, each with a unique cost structure. Understanding these costs is an important factor in evaluating each plan’s value.
Premiums and Cost Factors: Premiums vary according to the length of the trip, the traveler’s age, and any additional cover options like Snow Sports cover. For example, younger travelers under 25 can expect lower premiums than older people.
Domestic Travel Insurance
- Starting Premium: From $166 per month for a single trip
- Excess: Standard excess of $150 per claim
International Travel Insurance
- The Works (Comprehensive Plan): From $260 per month for a single trip
- The Basics (Budget Plan): From $209 per month for a single trip
- Excess: Standard excess of $150 per claim regardless of plan
Annual Multi-Trip Plan
- Premium: From $418 per month for unlimited trips within a year
- Trip Duration: Covers trips up to 35 days each
- Excess: Standard excess of $150 per claim
Premiums and Cover Comparison
| 🔎 Plan | 💶 Starting Premium | 💱 Excess | ↪️ Key Cover Features |
| 🥇 Domestic Travel Insurance | $166/month | $150 | Cancellation, luggage, rental excess |
| 🥈 International - The Works | $260/month | $150 | Unlimited medical, trip cancellation, luggage |
| 🥉 International - The Basics | $209/month | $150 | Essential medical, trip cancellation |
| 🏅 Annual Multi-Trip | $418/month | $150 | Unlimited medical, trip cancellation, luggage |
Value for Money
Each plan balances cost with cover scope. While The Basics plan is budget-friendly, The Works offers broader protection for those seeking extensive cover.
The Annual Multi-Trip plan is ideal for frequent travelers, providing comprehensive cover at a fixed yearly rate, saving costs over multiple individual policies.
Travel Direct Travel Insurance Discounts and Incentives
Travel Direct has some discounts and incentives that could offer cost-effective solutions for travelers, including the following:
Group Discounts
Schools, clubs, and associations can benefit from discounts when purchasing multiple policies. These discounts are available for groups with a minimum of 10 adult travelers.
To apply, the group organizer must provide details, including the number of travelers, destinations, and travel dates, through an online form.
Affiliate Partnerships
Travel Direct partners with affiliates who can earn a referral fee of up to 10% of the transaction value for confirmed sales.
These sales are tracked via specific content links supplied by Travel Direct, ensuring transparency and accuracy in the referral process.
Key Discount Features
- Group Discount: 10% off for groups of 10 or more adult travelers
- Referral Fees: Up to 10% of the transaction value for confirmed affiliate sales
- Conditions for Discounts: Group organizers need to submit travel details via an online form
Eligibility and Conditions
Eligibility for group discounts requires a minimum of 10 adult travelers. For affiliate partnerships, the referral fee is contingent upon the completion of a confirmed sale, defined as a policy purchase that is not canceled and has reached its start date.
How Do I Apply For Travel Insurance with Travel Direct?
Applying for a Travel Direct Travel Insurance policy is extremely easy.
- Visit Travel Direct’s official website.
- Click on ‘Get a Quote’ and input details such as destination, travel dates, and the number of travelers.
- Select the type of cover (e.g., single-trip, annual multi-trip) and any additional cover options like Snow Sports cover.
- Provide personal information for all travelers, including full names, birthdates, and contact details.
- Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions as required by the policy.
- Check the policy summary for cover details, limits, and exclusions. Ensure all information is accurate.
- Read and agree to the terms and conditions.
- Choose a payment method, enter the details, and confirm the purchase.
After payment, a confirmation email with your policy documents will be sent. Ensure you review these documents carefully.
Required Documentation
- Identification: Provide IDs for all travelers.
- Travel Details: Include trip start and end dates, and destinations.
- Medical Declarations: Necessary for any pre-existing conditions.
How Can I Claim For Travel Insurance with Travel Direct?
Submitting a claim with Travel Direct Travel Insurance revolves around a structured process to ensure that all necessary information is available for efficient claim handling.
Claim Submission Steps
Immediately report any loss or damage to the relevant authorities, like the local police, transport provider, or hotel, and collect evidence of the notification.
- Contact Travel Direct immediately to inform them about the incident.
- Get the claim form from the Travel Direct website, complete it with accurate details, and provide all information required.
- Collect supporting documents like medical certificates, itemized medical accounts, receipts, police reports, and proof of purchase for lost or stolen items.
Upload the completed form and supporting documents online.
Supporting Documentation
Here are some of the documents you must upload (depending on your claim):
- Medical Claims: Include medical certificates, itemized accounts, and receipts.
- Lost or Stolen Items: Provide a police report, proof of purchase, and any correspondence with the carrier or other parties involved.
- Travel Disruptions: Attach transport tickets, hotel bookings, or receipts for additional expenses incurred due to delays or cancellations.
Travel Direct should process claims within 10 working days after receiving a completed claim form and all supporting documentation. Travel Direct will contact you within this timeframe if further information is required.
Can I add more than one person to my Travel Direct Travel Insurance Policy?
Travel Direct Travel Insurance lets policyholders cover more than a few individuals under one policy. This is how that works.
Policy Inclusion Details
A maximum of two adults can be included in a single policy.
- Accompanying children are insured at no additional premium and must meet the policy’s definition of children.
- Children are only covered while traveling with an insured adult named on the Certificate of Insurance.
- Group Travel Benefits For larger groups such as schools, clubs, or associations, Travel Direct offers a group discount for a minimum of 10 adult travelers.
While only two adults can be on a single policy, multiple policies can be purchased to cover the entire group.
Key Details for Adding Individuals
| 🔎 Policy Feature | 📌 Details |
| 🥰 Maximum Adults per Policy | 2 |
| 🍼 Child Cover | Included at no extra cost when accompanying insured adults |
| 🎉 Group Discounts | 10% discount for groups of 10 or more adult travelers |
| 📍 Separate Policies | Required for groups beyond two adults |
Travel Direct Travel Insurance Upgrades and Downgrades
Travel Direct Travel Insurance allows policyholders to adjust their cover through upgrades and downgrades. Here’s how you can manage these changes:
Policy Adjustments
- Upgrades: Customers can enhance their cover by adding options like Snow Sports cover or increasing their cancellation limits. These changes must be made before the trip, as mid-trip upgrades are not permissible.
- Downgrades: Policyholders can reduce cover options, such as removing optional add-ons. Downgrades are typically subject to approval and should be requested before the policy starts.
Administrative Process
- Online Adjustments: Some changes can be initiated through the online portal by accessing the policy management section.
- Customer Support: Contact Travel Direct’s customer service is recommended for more complex adjustments. This ensures all changes align with policy terms.
Upgrade and Downgrade Options
| 🔎 Option | 📌 Description | 📍 Conditions |
| ❄️ Snow Sports Cover | Add cover for snow sports activities | Must be added before the trip starts |
| 📊 Cancellation Limit | Increase the cancellation cover | Requires additional premium |
| 📉 Specified Items Cover | Add cover for high-value personal items | Documentation of item value required |
| 📈 Removing Add-ons | The downgrade by removing optional covers | Refunds may apply based on policy terms |
Additional Costs and Refunds
Adjustments involving increased cover will require an additional premium. Conversely, downgrades result in a partial refund, depending on the unused portion of the premium and the timing of the change request.
Travel Direct Digital Tools and Apps
Online Portal
This centralized hub lets policyholders manage aspects of their travel insurance. Users can view and download policy documents, update personal information such as contact details and addresses, and amend their cover as needed.
Claims Submission and Tracking
Policyholders can submit claims by completing online forms and uploading supporting documents directly through the portal. The system offers a tracking feature to monitor the status of claims, providing timely updates throughout the process.
Features of Digital Tools
| 🔎 Feature | 📉 Functionality | 📈 User Benefits |
| 🅰️ Online Portal | Policy management, document viewing, personal info updates | Centralized access, easy policy adjustments |
| 🅱️ Claims Tracking | Submit and track claims online | Real-time status updates, transparency in claims process |
Travel Direct Travel Insurance Additional Services and Benefits
Travel Direct has a few additional services and unique benefits, focusing on customer convenience and global impact. From supporting charitable projects through The Footprints Network to providing practical covers like fraud protection and equipment replacement, these services add meaningful value to the travel experience.
- Charitable Initiatives through The Footprints Network” Customers can contribute to community projects globally by adding micro-donations to their policy purchases. These projects include essential services like clean water provision and health care improvements.
- Travelers can opt for additional covers, including hiring replacement golf and surf equipment. This benefit ensures uninterrupted leisure activities even if their equipment is lost or damaged. Fraud protection on credit and debit cards further safeguards against financial losses during the trip.
- Travel Direct provides round-the-clock emergency assistance, complemented by a detailed FAQ section and active customer support through email and social media, ensuring travelers can access help whenever needed.
- Partners can benefit financially by promoting Travel Direct policies, earning up to 10% referral fees on confirmed sales, thus extending Travel Direct’s reach and engagement.
Customers also benefit from robust support resources and the opportunity to participate in an affiliate program, making Travel Direct more than just an insurance provider.
Optional Covers and Benefits
| 🔎 Benefit/Service | 📌 Description | 📍 Conditions |
| 📉 Footprints Network Donations | Micro-donations supporting global community projects | Available during policy purchase |
| 📈 Replacement Golf/Surf Equipment | Covers the cost of hiring replacement items | No excess applies |
| 📊 Fraud Protection for Cards | Covers losses from fraudulent use of cards | Must comply with card issuer’s conditions |
| ❤️ Customer Support Resources | 24/7 emergency assistance, FAQ, email, and social media support | Emergency support is available anytime |
| 🥰 Affiliate Program | Referral fee of up to 10% on confirmed sales | Based on confirmed, non-cancelled policy sales |
How to Switch to Travel Direct Travel Insurance
Switching from your current insurance provider to Travel Direct Travel Insurance will require careful planning to ensure consistent coverage and comply with policy terms. You must understand the cancellation terms of your existing policy, start a new policy with Travel Direct, and consider overlapping cover and cooling-off periods.
The following steps will help you navigate the transition while safeguarding your travel plans.
Switching Steps
Review Current Policy
Review your travel insurance policy to understand cancellation terms and any fees associated with early termination.
Cancel Existing Policy
Contact your current insurance provider to initiate the cancellation. Ensure to confirm the effective date of cancellation to avoid overlap.
Understand the Cooling-Off Period
Travel Direct offers a 21-day cooling-off period. During this time, you can cancel the policy for a full refund, provided no claims have been made and travel has not started.
Initiate New Policy
Visit Travel Direct’s official website to purchase a new policy. Enter your travel details, select the desired cover, and complete the payment process.
Key Considerations
Ensure there is no gap in coverage when transitioning between providers. Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to Travel Direct during the application process.
Review Travel Direct’s policy terms, especially regarding coverage for pre-existing conditions and specific waiting periods.
Key Points for Switching
| 🔎 Action | 📌 Details | 📍 Considerations |
| 📉 Review Current Policy | Check cancellation conditions and applicable fees | Avoid penalties by understanding the terms |
| 📈 Cancel Existing Policy | Notify the current insurer and confirm the cancellation date | Prevent overlapping cover |
| 📊 Cooling-Off Period | 21 days for a full refund if no claims or travel has occurred | Provides flexibility after purchase |
| 💹 Initiate New Policy | Purchase through Travel Direct’s website | Immediate cover upon payment completion |
Exclusions and Limitations of Travel Direct Travel Insurance
Travel Direct Travel Insurance includes various exclusions and limitations that policyholders must know to avoid unexpected situations where cover doesn’t apply. Understanding these exclusions ensures you know what’s covered and under which conditions.
General exclusions apply across all policy sections unless specifically stated otherwise. These include:
- Cover isn’t available for travel undertaken when unfit to travel or against medical advice. Elective or cosmetic procedures and complications from clinical trials are also excluded.
- Pre-existing conditions are not automatically covered and are excluded unless specifically agreed upon.
- Participation in high-risk activities like paragliding, rock climbing, and using motorcycles over 250cc without proper licensing are not covered.
- Cover isn’t provided for travel to regions under the Australian Government’s “Do not travel” warning.
Moreover, Losses due to financial default of travel service providers and failure to comply with local laws and government regulations are not covered.
Policy Limitations
- Notification and documentation: Claims must be supported by timely notification of incidents and proper documentation, such as police reports for theft or medical certificates for health-related claims.
- Waiting periods: A 72-hour period applies if the policy is purchased after travel has commenced, affecting cover start times.
Major Exclusions and Conditions
| ❌ Exclusion | 📌 Description | 📍 Conditions |
| 📉 Medical-related exclusions | Travel against medical advice, elective surgeries, or cosmetic procedures | No cover for related complications |
| 📈 Pre-existing conditions | Non-automatically covered conditions | Requires approval for inclusion |
| 📊 High-risk activities | Activities like paragliding, BASE jumping, or riding motorcycles without a proper license | Specific exclusions based on activity and compliance with safety measures |
| 💹 Territorial limitations | Travel to regions under "Do not travel" advisories | Excludes cover for losses in these regions |
| 💱 Financial and Administrative | Losses due to the financial failure of travel services or breach of laws | Requires compliance with local laws and recovery attempts from other sources |
How Do I Contact Travel Direct Travel Insurance Customer Support?
Reaching Travel Direct Travel Insurance’s customer support is straightforward, with multiple contact methods available depending on your needs, whether a policy query, claim assistance, or an emergency.
Contact Methods
| 🔎 Method | 📌 Purpose | 📍 Details |
| ☎️ Phone | General inquiries, claims assistance | 1300 843 843 (Australia), +61 2 8256 1537 (Overseas) |
| 🚨 Emergency Assistance | Immediate support during emergencies | +61 2 9234 3123 or +61 2 8256 1523, available 24/7 |
| Non-urgent queries | [email protected], monitored 24/7 for emergencies | |
| 🖱️ Online Portal | Policy management, claim submissions | Accessible through the Travel Direct website |
| ❤️ Social Media | Quick inquiries during business hours | Monitored on Facebook during business hours |
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
🥇 Great for Work Trips
I chose Travel Direct’s yearly multi-trip package for my work trips. Comprehensive cover included medical bills and travel cancellations. I missed a critical meeting due to travel delay but was relieved to recover the extra costs. The claims procedure was handled well by customer support. – Carl
🥈 Peace of Mind on Solo Travel
Travel Direct’s travel insurance gave me peace of mind on my solo South American journey. The cover covered medical emergencies, travel cancellations, and missing luggage. I used the medical cover to visit a nearby clinic when I got sick. The insurer cooperated with the clinic, so I didn’t pay. Comfortingly, the service crew was available 24/7. – Lucy
🥉 Ideal for Family Trips
I bought Travel Direct’s yearly multi-trip cover for my family’s trips. Policy advantages included medical crises and journey delays. On one journey, a delay caused us to miss a connecting connection. The insurer paid extra lodging and meals, which was helpful. Customer service was friendly, and the claims procedure was simple. – JJ
How Do I Submit Feedback or Complaints?
If you have feedback or a complaint about Travel Direct Travel Insurance, the process is designed to ensure your concerns are addressed efficiently and thoroughly. Here’s how to submit your feedback or complaints and what to expect.
Feedback and Complaint Process
To submit a complaint, contact the Customer Relations team at Travel Direct by phone at 1300 025 121, email at [email protected], or mail to Customer Relations, PO Box A975, Sydney NSW 1235, Australia.
Be sure to include your policy number, a detailed description of your concern, and any relevant documentation. Your complaint will be acknowledged within one business day, and you will receive the contact details of the person handling it.
Travel Direct aims to resolve complaints within 10 business days, but if this isn’t possible, they will provide updates every 10 business days. If your complaint is not resolved to your satisfaction within 30 days, you can escalate it to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).
Travel Direct Travel Insurance Awards and Recognition
Travel Direct has won a few awards within the travel insurance industry for commitment to service quality and customer satisfaction, including the following:
- In 2022, Travel Direct received the Canstar Outstanding Value Award for its comprehensive travel insurance policies.
- In 2023, Travel Direct was awarded the Mozo Experts Choice Award, further affirming a focus on delivering exceptional value and customer service.
Who Should Consider Travel Direct Travel Insurance?
| 🔎 Traveler Type | 📌 Matching Policy Benefits |
| 🥰 Solo Travellers | Comprehensive cover for individual trips, including medical and cancellation cover. |
| 👩👧👧 Families | Free cover for accompanying children, making it economical for family travel. |
| 🔖 Groups | Group discounts are available for schools and clubs, reducing costs for multiple members. |
| 🏖️ Adventure and High-Risk Travellers | Tailored options for activities like snow sports, ensuring cover during high-risk pursuits. |
| 🏝️ Frequent Travellers | Annual Multi-Trip plans offer flexibility for those who travel multiple times a year. |
| 🧳 Business Travellers | Cover for trip cancellations and delays, protecting business-related travel investments. |
| 💹 Elderly Travellers | Comprehensive medical cover options cater to older travelers, including additional support for pre-existing conditions. |
| 📊 Students Travelling Abroad | Affordable options with essential cover for study abroad programs, including emergency assistance. |
| 📈 Backpackers | Flexible plans for long-term travel, covering diverse activities and travel routes. |
| ❤️ Couples | Policies are designed for two adults, allowing for easy cover for both travelers at a competitive rate. |
Travel Direct Travel Insurance vs Cover-More Travel Insurance vs NRMA Travel Insurance
| 🔎 Provider | 🥇 Travel Direct Travel Insurance | 🥈 Cover-More Travel Insurance | 🥉 NRMA Travel Insurance |
| Plan Name | Domestic Travel Insurance, International Travel Insurance (The Works and The Basics), Annual Multi-Trip | Single Trip, Annual Multi-Trip, Domestic, Inbound | International Comprehensive, International Essentials, Annual Multi-Trip, Domestic Comprehensive, Domestic Cancellation |
| 📊 Premium Range (Trip-Based or Annual) | From approximately $166 for single trips, varying based on cover and traveler age | $92–$558 per month | From $52 per month for Domestic Cancellation Plan to $204 per month for International Plans |
| 💹 Cover Limits | Medical expenses up to $50,000, baggage up to $4,000, cancellation costs up to chosen limit | Medical: unlimited; Luggage: $25,000; Liability: $5 million | Unlimited medical expenses for the Comprehensive Plan, up to $10 million for the Essentials Plan |
| 📈 Key Cover Areas | Medical cover, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, personal liability, emergency evacuation | Medical, trip cancellation, luggage, liability, evacuation | Medical cover, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, personal liability, emergency evacuation |
| 📉 Exclusions | Pre-existing medical conditions, certain high-risk activities, travel to countries with a "Do Not Travel" warning | Pre-existing conditions, high-risk countries, medical travel | Pre-existing medical conditions not declared, travel against advice, and some natural disasters |
| 🤕 COVID-19 Cover | Cover for trip cancellations, medical costs, and related quarantine expenses due to COVID-19 | Medical, cancellation, and quarantine expenses | Trip cancellations, medical costs, quarantine expenses under specific conditions |
| ❤️ Ideal For | Families, frequent travelers, groups, adventurers | Frequent, domestic, and inbound travelers | Domestic and international travelers, family plans, adventure add-ons |
| 🏈 Adventure Sports Cover | Snow sports, with specific add-ons for high-risk activities | Add-ons: skiing, scuba, trekking | High-risk activities like skiing, scuba diving, and trekking are available with additional premiums |
| 🚨 Emergency Assistance | 24/7 emergency medical assistance is available | 24/7 global support | 24/7 emergency hotline, multilingual support |
| 📲 Digital Access and Mobile App | No dedicated mobile app; an online portal for policy management and claims tracking | App with policy management, alerts, assistance | NRMA app is available for policy management, claims tracking, and payment notifications |
| 📌 Special Features | Group discounts, community outreach, 24/7 emergency assistance, flexible plans, add-ons for sports and activities | Velocity points, flexible excess, global reach | Domestic Cancellation Plan, 24/7 emergency assistance, extensive add-ons and upgrades |
| ⏰ Average Claim Settlement Time | 10 business days, | 10–15 business days | 10 working days |
Pros and Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Generous limits for claims such as personal liability and medical expenses | Certain claims have waiting periods if the policy is purchased or amended after travel has started |
| Policies cover cancellation, medical expenses, and lost luggage | Geographical exclusions apply |
| Protection extends to travelers in over 100 countries | Cover for pre-existing medical conditions is limited |
| A dedicated customer support team is available to assist policyholders | Limits on high-risk activities |
| Customers can contribute to community projects when purchasing a policy | Optional add-ons lead to increased overall policy costs |
In Conclusion
Travel Direct Travel Insurance offers comprehensive plans including Domestic, International, and Annual Multi-Trip options, each tailored to different travelers. Its transparent policies, helpful quote tool, and community-driven approach with initiatives like micro-donations and free cover for children are key strengths.
Add-ons for high-risk activities cater to adventure travelers. However, the lack of a digital app, strict waiting periods, and stringent eligibility requirements for seniors and those with pre-existing conditions are notable drawbacks.
Overall, Travel Direct is ideal for solo travelers, families, and frequent flyers seeking flexible coverage.
- Southern Cross Travel Insurance
- Tick Travel Insurance
- World Nomads Travel Insurance
- World2Cover Travel Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Travel Direct’s travel insurance cover?
Travel Direct Travel Insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or delayed luggage, and personal liability during your trip. There are other features and benefits that apply per plan.
Is there a deductible for claims with Travel Direct Travel Insurance?
Yes, policies have an excess. The excess is what you must pay out of pocket before cover starts.
Can I cancel my Travel Direct Travel Insurance policy after I bought it?
Yes, you can. Policies have a 21-day cooling-off period during which you can cancel and receive a full refund. After this period, cancellation terms vary; visit your insurance documentation for further information.
Are vaccines required for Travel Direct’s travel insurance cover?
No, you don’t. While not required for cover with Travel Direct, there might be vaccination requirements for different countries before you can go there.
