11 Smart Travel Insurance Tips (And Why You Should Never Travel Without It)

Last updated 6 May 2025

1. Check What You're Already Covered For

You may already have partial cover through your credit card provider, private health insurance, or home contents insurance (for baggage). Always review what's included — and whether it applies overseas — before purchasing additional insurance.

2. Know Your Limits and Exclusions

Understand the payout limits and fine print of any included cover. Credit card travel insurance, for instance, may only apply if you pay for the trip in full using the card. Medical cover might only be for emergencies — and exclude pre-existing conditions.

3. Compare Multiple Policies and Providers

Get at least three quotes and read reviews. Don't just go for the cheapest option. Use independent comparison sites or speak with a travel insurance broker who can guide you toward the best plan for your specific needs.

4. Declare All Pre-Existing Conditions

Failing to declare chronic illnesses or past conditions can void your cover completely. Be honest, and ask your provider how pre-existing conditions affect your policy. Some will offer tailored options with specific exclusions or surcharges.

5. Buy Travel Insurance as Soon as You Book Your Trip

Many benefits (like trip cancellation or supplier insolvency) only apply if your policy is in place before a disruption occurs. Book your insurance when you pay your first deposit — not just before you fly.

6. Double-Check Your Travel Dates and Duration

Make sure your insurance covers you for the entire duration of your trip, including transit days. If you're travelling through multiple countries, confirm that all destinations are included.

7. Understand Local Laws and Coverage Gaps

If you're injured while breaking local laws or under the influence of drugs/alcohol, you likely won't be covered. Familiarise yourself with the basic laws and customs of your destination country.

8. Prioritise Medical and Evacuation Cover

Medical emergencies abroad can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Choose a policy that includes hospitalisation, emergency transport, and medical repatriation — even if that's all you buy.

9. Consider a Multi-Trip Policy if You Travel Often

If you're planning more than two trips a year, an annual multi-trip policy might save you money and time. These often come with limits on trip duration per journey (e.g., 30 or 60 days).

10. Check if Adventure Sports and Activities Are Included

Many policies exclude 'risky' activities by default — from scuba diving and trekking to hot-air ballooning or skydiving. If you're planning any adventure activities, make sure they're explicitly included in your cover.

11. Read the Fine Print and Ask Questions

The devil is in the details. Clarify vague clauses and ask your broker or provider to walk you through anything unclear. Knowing what's not covered is just as important as what is.

You might never use it — but when you do, travel insurance can be a lifesaver. From cancelled flights and stolen passports to emergency surgeries or being airlifted out of a remote destination, the right cover offers peace of mind that's priceless. When you weigh the risks of going without it, the decision is easy.

When travelling to Africa, it's especially important to choose a travel insurance provider that understands the unique challenges of the region — from remote safari locations with limited medical access to the need for prompt, professional evacuation support.

That's why we recommend looking at Africa-specific cover like SATIBgo, developed by Safari and Tourism Insurance Brokers (SATIB), one of the most trusted names in African travel insurance. Their policies offer flexible levels of protection tailored to safari travellers, including cover for emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and more.