Explore Travel Insurance

Not only is pairing up a great way of seeing the sights abroad, but it’s also a good way of exploring affordable travel insurance options. Joint travel insurance policies are designed to cover two travellers with the same itinerary against a range of unexpected emergencies that can arise on a trip, which can often lead to hefty expenses.

Whether it’s a quick getaway, a multi-trip holiday or your honeymoon, finding the right cover for the two of you is important and may save you money.

What is travel insurance for couples?

Travel insurance for couples is intended to cover two people under one policy and can often work out cheaper than two individual policies. Travel insurance for couples isn’t just an option for lovebirds, either; it may be available to any travel companions sharing the same itinerary on their trip, depending on the insurer’s eligibility criteria. Most insurers will allow family or friends travelling together for the entire trip to purchase just one policy to cover both individuals.

If you and your trip partner are frequent travellers, you may also opt for an annual multi-trip policy for couples, which allows you to be covered for any number of trips during a 12-month period. On the other hand, a single trip policy can cover you for one trip lasting up to 12 months.

Choosing the right level of cover is a smart step for travelling pairs and can provide assurances on your health, plans and possessions. Like other types of travel insurance, travel insurance for couples can typically be broken down into three levels of cover:

  • Basic or saver. This protection may cover medical expenses, as well as limited dental treatment, luggage and personal liability cover. Or, if you choose a basic medical-only policy, you’ll usually receive a high amount of medical cover and emergency assistance, but nothing else.
  • Mid-range or essentials. Additional coverage costs for medical expenses, dental treatment, luggage, cancellation and delays, as well as personal liability cover.
  • Comprehensive. Premium cover for medical costs, high-level cover for dental treatment and top benefit limits for luggage, cancellations, delays and personal liability cover.

Couple on vacation in Berlin

What’s included in a travel insurance policy for couples

Just as with regular travel insurance cover, travel insurance for couples will cover you for many potential overseas incidents that could cost you money, particularly if you choose comprehensive couples cover. You could potentially have a cheaper premium and save time by dealing with just one couples policy rather than two single policies. Some common comprehensive policy benefits may include:

  • Cover for medical and hospital expenses. You can receive peace of mind in case you or your partner becomes unwell or injured on holiday by being covered for medical expenses such as hospital accommodation, medical treatment, dental (up to certain sub-limits) and prescription medication.
  • Accidental death benefit and repatriation. If you or your partner suffers a medical emergency and needs evacuation out of the country, this often-substantial bill can be covered by your policy. Furthermore, if the worst were to happen and either of you pass away during your travels, your remains can be repatriated back to Australia.
  • Theft and loss of property. Reimbursement for damaged, lost or stolen luggage, valuables, personal belongings, credit cards or cash. You should always report an incident to your insurer, the airline and local police within 24 hours.
  • Cancellations and delays. Generally covers expenses related to travel plans that are affected by illness or unforeseen circumstances. Postponed flights, missed holiday tours and cancellations are common occurrences with travel.
  • Personal liability. If you or your partner damage a person’s property or injure someone, your travel insurance can pay for your legal expenses. However, never admit to guilt before speaking with your insurer, or your claim may be rejected.
  • Rental vehicle excess. Your insurer can cover the excess fees for your rental car in case of a car accident.
  • Loss of income and permanent disability. Some policies offer benefits if you’re injured abroad and can’t return to work for some time.
  • Optional cover for adventure sports and activities. Handy for couples venturing to places where the risk of injury is heightened (e.g. if you need ski and snowboarding cover or adventure cover).

Limits, sub-limits and inclusions will vary between policies and insurers. Always check the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure your policy covers you for all that you need.

What’s the difference between a single and couples travel insurance policy?

The main difference between a travel insurance policy for two people and purchasing two single policies is the costs involved. Couples are likely to save money and time by choosing one inclusive policy, rather than two separate policies.

Depending on what level of cover and insurance provider you choose, selecting a couples travel insurance policy may ease the burden of having two separate policies. You can both know exactly what you’re covered for, and there will be no surprises if you need to make a claim overseas.

Romantic couple destinations to visit

If you’re travelling with your partner, you might be after a romantic getaway. Here are some of the most romantic destinations in the world.

Common exclusions and helpful information

While having the appropriate level of cover for you and your travelling companion is a step in the right direction, there are some exclusions you should be aware of when taking out travel insurance for couples. Similar to other policies, some activities and circumstances may affect your cover. As such, reading and understanding your PDS to know exactly what you are and aren’t covered for is essential.

Common exclusions include:

  • Injuries sustained while partaking in a potentially risky physical activity (although many activities may be included in adventure cover)
  • Injuries while partaking in winter sports (usually you’ll need to pay extra for winter sports cover)
  • Riding a motorcycle or driving without a licence
  • Your hotel or tour operator goes into financial receivership
  • Undertaking illegal activities (breaking the law)
  • Being under the influence of drugs and alcohol
  • Ignoring official government warnings (natural disasters or civil unrest)
  • Leaving your possessions unsupervised.

You should also be aware that pre-existing medical conditions can impact the cost of your desired insurance cover. Couples should always disclose a pre-existing medical condition to their insurer, who will decide whether they can cover your condition.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a maximum amount of cover for damaged or lost items?

Yes, most policies offer a maximum amount that can be claimed for damaged or lost items. Refer to your PDS or insurer if you require further information or are unsure of any particulars.

Does travel insurance for couples have to be with your spouse/partner?

Not necessarily. In most cases, travel insurance can be purchased for family members or friends travelling together, provided they have the same itinerary. In cases where travel insurance for couples isn’t available, you may be able to take out a group insurance policy.

Can you travel separately from your partner for any duration of your trip?

Travel insurance policies typically state that your departure and arrival dates must be the same as the person you’re travelling with, as do your destinations. Some insurers may allow you to take separate flights, as long as the dates and destinations are both the same. It’s more common, though, for both travellers to have the same itinerary.

Stephen Zeller, General Manager

Top couple travel insurance tips from our travel expert, Stephen Zeller

  • Consider which policy will best suit your needs. You may want cover for medical expenses, travel delays, cancellation fees and lost or stolen luggage. Depending on your destination, you may want to consider additional cover for cruises, winter sports or adventures.
  • Don’t leave you belongings unattended in public, as your insurer may reject any theft claims if your possessions are stolen. Be sure to also make copies of your important documentation (e.g. passport, ID cards) and leave them with someone in Australia in case they’re lost or stolen.
  • If you want to reduce your premium, consider choosing a higher excess on your policy. But remember that your excess is what you pay out of pocket if you need to make a claim, so always choose a manageable excess amount.
  • Be mindful of local laws, especially when travelling on motorcycles and consuming alcohol. Keep in mind that any alcohol and drug-related claims may not be met. All policies have limits, conditions and exclusions and understanding these will help ensure you have the cover you need.

Compare couples travel insurance with us

Travelling as a couple shouldn’t have to be worrisome. Let’s face it; more important things (like trekking the Andes or visiting that favourite spot in Bali) should be the only thing on your mind when holidaying.

However, if plans do take a turn for the worse, seeking the right level of cover is a wise decision, and it gives you the peace of mind you’ll need to fully appreciate your trip away.

If you and your partner, your best friend or even your cousin are travelling abroad, it’s a good idea to obtain quotes for a variety of different policies. With our free travel insurance comparison service, you can find policies from a range of providers in just minutes. Simples.

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