Importance of travel insurance
Irish travellers are back on the road in force and in 2022, over 10,000 Irish backpackers took the trip to Australia, and thousands more took long journeys to other parts of the world.
The benefits of Backpacker travel insurance with Aviva go beyond emergencies: It also provides peace of mind, which is especially important if you're inviting surprises and variables into your life with long-haul or long-term travel. The maximum cover period under our Backpacker travel insurance product is six months.
Backpacker travel insurance is available for a single trip for leisure, study and/or incidental work which begins and ends in the Republic of Ireland. It means you'll be covered for emergency medical expenses, cancellation costs, personal property/money losses, and a range of other covers while you're on your trip abroad. There's also a lower cost option available, with reduced levels of cover.
Backpacking can mean travelling to the other side of the world or could kick off with a short flight to somewhere in Europe. If you're looking for inspiration, check out our blog on backpacking destinations from Iceland to Italy and beyond.
Backpacker travel insurance: what is insured?
Backpacker travel insurance covers against a range of the most common mishaps that can happen on long trips, such as;
Travel insurance for backpackers: key features
Here are some of the main benefits of our backpacker travel insurance product:
Comprehensive medical cover
Medical expenses can be covered up to €2,000,000, although the maximum payout is lower if participating in extreme sports or other dangerous activities.
24/7 assistance
Life works on a 24-hour clock, and so do we. That's why we provide 24/7 assistance for those with backpacker travel insurance.
Flexible Plans
Tailor your plan to suit your experience. Every backpacker's journey is different, both geographically and timewise. So, it makes sense that there are a number of options for different durations and destinations.
Travel insurance tips for backpackers
Knowing how to effectively use your travel insurance is as important as having a policy in place. Here are some tips for making the most of your travel insurance and having access to your benefits when you need it. Following these precautions not only makes it easier to navigate emergencies but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your backpacking adventure.
Keep documents handy
It's crucial to keep all your policy documents accessible at all times: In the event of an emergency, having quick access to these details can speed up the claims process and ensure you receive the necessary assistance. Save electronic copies on your phone or laptop and store physical copies just in case.
Keep emergency contact numbers saved
Always have emergency contact numbers saved and easily accessible, including those for local emergency services, your insurance provider, and someone back home.
Backpacking in Europe / Worldwide safety tips
Whether you're backpacking in Europe or further afield, there are simple steps you can take to make your journey safer and less stressful.
- Before your trip, especially if travelling solo, share your travel plans and important details (accommodation addresses and local contact information), with a trusted friend or family member.
- When exploring new destinations, stay vigilant and avoid risky areas, especially at night. Ask locals for advice on areas to visit and ones to avoid.
- Get to know local culture and customs in advance to show respect and avoid misunderstandings while abroad.
- Remain vigilant and aware of surroundings to avoid petty theft.
- Don't carry large amounts of cash: Use debit cards, credit cards, contactless payment apps and ATMs.
Additionally, securing travel insurance that covers theft, medical emergencies, and unexpected disruptions can provide an essential safety net.
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a memorable backpacking journey with increased safety and confidence.
Packing peace of mind
Backpacker travel insurance is an essential part of your luggage before a major trip! so get a quote that suits your specific travelling needs.
Travel Insurance with Aviva
Travel Insurance
At Aviva, we understand that how we travel has changed, but you can still enjoy peace of mind with our travel or holiday insurance - now including Covid-19 medical expenses and cancellation cover.
Winter sports travel insurance
Insurance for winters sports includes ski insurance, snowboarding insurance, tobogganing and outdoor ice-skating. Choose annual multi-trip or single trip for Europe or Worldwide cover.
Single-trip travel Insurance
Single trip insurance is suited to those who only take one trip out of the country in any given calendar year. With Aviva, you can get instant cover for 31 consecutive days.
Multi-trip travel Insurance
If you travel more than once a year, multi trip or annual multi trip travel insurance is best suited to cover your needs. With this type of insurance, you don’t need to worry about taking out a policy for each trip abroad so long as each trip lasts for no more than 31 days.
