Travel insurance is a crucial element of any journey, providing peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected events. Among the myriad of travel insurance providers, Southern Cross Travel Insurance stands out as a popular choice for many travellers.
This New Zealand-based company has been offering comprehensive travel insurance policies for over 35 years, earning a reputation for reliable coverage and efficient customer service. In this article, we’ll explore what Southern Cross Travel Insurance covers, helping you understand its benefits and limitations.
1. Medical and Dental Emergencies
One of the main coverage areas under Southern Cross Travel Insurance is for medical and dental emergencies. This includes emergency medical and dental treatment, hospital stays, and costs associated with returning home if it’s medically necessary. It also includes a daily allowance for incidental hospital expenses.
2. Cancellations and Delays
Travel plans can change unexpectedly due to illness, accidents, or other unforeseen events. Southern Cross Travel Insurance provides coverage for such instances, reimbursing pre-paid travel and accommodation expenses that you cannot recover in the event of cancellation or delay. It also covers additional expenses caused by missed connections or travel delays.
3. Personal Liability
Southern Cross Travel Insurance covers personal liability, providing protection if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property while abroad. This coverage can save you from bearing substantial financial burdens in cases of accidental harm or damage.
4. Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Belongings
Another key feature of Southern Cross Travel Insurance is coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings. This includes baggage, personal items, travel documents, and even cash. It’s important to note, however, that there are limits on the amount you can claim for individual items and you may need to provide proof of ownership for high-value items.
5. Rental Vehicle Excess
If you’re planning to rent a vehicle during your travels, Southern Cross Travel Insurance offers coverage for rental vehicle excess. This means that if your rental vehicle is stolen or damaged, the policy can cover the excess you would have to pay to the rental company.
6. Adventure Activities
Many travellers seek out thrilling experiences and adventures abroad. Southern Cross Travel Insurance provides coverage for a wide range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, scuba diving, and more. However, there may be conditions and exclusions, so it’s essential to check if your planned activities are covered.
7. Death and Disability
In the unfortunate event of death or disability due to an accident during your travels, Southern Cross Travel Insurance provides a lump sum benefit. This includes a funeral benefit if death occurs overseas or within 12 months of the accident.
8. Personal Assistance
Southern Cross Travel Insurance also offers 24/7 assistance through their Emergency Assistance team. Whether you need help with a medical emergency, lost passport, or legal issue, their team is available round the clock to provide guidance and support.
While Southern Cross Travel Insurance provides comprehensive coverage, it’s important to remember that all policies have exclusions. For instance, it does not cover pre-existing medical conditions unless they are automatically covered or you have applied for and been accepted for coverage. It also doesn’t cover reckless behaviour, such as travelling against government advice, participating in criminal acts, or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs when an incident occurs.
Additionally, the amount of coverage will vary depending on the policy type and level you choose. Southern Cross Travel Insurance offers different plans to suit various travel needs, including single trip plans, annual multi-trip plans, and group plans.
In conclusion, Southern Cross Travel Insurance offers a comprehensive range of coverage to protect you against many of the usual risks associated with travelling. From medical emergencies to travel disruptions and personal belongings protection, this insurer offers a broad safety net for travellers. However, it’s essential to thoroughly read and understand your policy, including the exclusions and limitations, to ensure it meets your specific needs. Happy and safe travels!
