Does travel insurance cover war?

War and travel insurance: what to know

Travel insurers do not cover claims that arise as a result of war. This includes cancellations, delays and losses caused by conflict, such as flights interrupted by military strikes in the Middle East.

You can read about this General Exclusion (that is, an exclusion that applies to all sections of your policy) in your travel insurer's Product Disclosure Statement. For example:

We will not cover any losses, liability or expenses or claim related to, arising from or as a result of any act of war, whether declared or not, or from any rebellion, revolution, insurrection or taking of power by the military.

This exclusion is standard practice worldwide. Otherwise, travel insurance premiums would be unsustainable given the risks that coverage would need to account for.

Does travel insurance cover trips interrupted by 'Do Not Travel' warnings?

Travel insurance generally does not cover claims if you acted contrary to official government warnings and bans, including:

• travel advice, warnings or bans
• 'Do Not Travel' advisory
• government-directed border closure
• mandatory quarantine or self-isolation requirements related to cross-border, region, or territory travel.

If the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) issued a Do Not Travel advisory about your country or region of intended travel after you bought your policy and before your trip departure, travel insurers may cover you to change plan.

This will only be the case if the reason for the claim isn't already excluded by the insurer (i.e. specific benefit exclusions and general exclusions), such as the war exclusion. So, since claims due to war are not covered by travel insurance, you will still not be covered for claims due to war.

Does travel insurance cover terrorist attacks?

Terrorist attacks are treated differently to war by travel insurers.

Some travel insurance policies include limited cover for terrorist incidents, such as emergency medical expenses or evacuation costs. However, if a terrorist act escalates into broader conflict or is classified as war, the exclusion may still apply.

Check your Product Disclosure Statement to see how your travel insurer defines terrorism and what exclusions and sub-limits may apply to your policy.

What to do if you haven't left yet

If conflict breaks out before your departure, avoid rushing into decisions.

• Don't cancel your trip immediately - if you cancel flights or accommodation yourself, it may be treated as a 'change of mind' - meaning you likely won't be covered by your travel insurance policy.
• Wait to see if the airline cancels your flight - check if your airline offers refunds, travel credits or free rebooking. Review your booking terms before acting.
• Notify your insurer - ask whether any part of your claim could be covered, and if your policy includes flexibility for changing plans.

What to do if you're already overseas

If conflict escalates while you're travelling, focus on your safety first and foremost.

• Follow official advice and avoid high-risk areas - check the government website Smartraveller for the latest travel advice.
• Register your details on the Australian Government's crisis page - Australian citizens, permanent residents, and their immediate family members currently in a crisis location should register with the DFAT Crisis Portal, providing their location and contact details to receive critical updates and assistance.
• Don't cancel your flights - wait to hear from your airline or travel agent, as you may be able to reschedule or reroute. Travel agents are especially useful in complex situations like these, which is why booking with a travel agent is often recommended when planning trips.
• Contact your insurer - they may be able to help coordinate assistance; for example, RACV Travel Insurance offers overseas emergency assistance 24 hours a day. You can also still lodge a claim, even if you think it may be excluded: insurers will assess on a case-by-case basis. Some insurers may also extend your cover if you're unable to return home as planned, so that you're still covered for non-war-related issues like medical emergencies or theft.

What your insurance may still cover

Even in a conflict zone, parts of your policy may remain valid.

You may still be covered for:

• medical treatment unrelated to the conflict
• lost or stolen belongings
• accidents (e.g. injuries at your accommodation)
• some travel delays or disruptions.

Insurers assess claims individually, on a case by case basis.

Tips for travelling safely in uncertain times

Even with insurance, preparation is essential when travelling during periods of global uncertainty. Here are some recommendations.

• Register your travel - sign up with the Australian Government's Smartraveller service to receive updates and assistance if conditions change.
• Monitor local conditions - stay informed about developments in your destination before and during your trip.
• Have an exit plan - know your evacuation options, including nearby airports, border crossings and alternative routes.
• Keep documents accessible - carry copies of your passport, insurance policy and emergency contacts.
• Consider flexible bookings - choose airlines and accommodation providers that offer flexible cancellation or change policies.

The bottom line

Understanding your policy, staying informed about global events, and planning ahead are key to travelling safely. If you're heading to a region with potential instability, it's worth considering whether the risks outweigh the benefits.