Only 6% of South Africans say they’d never consider taking out travel insurance, according to Flight Centre’s Global PR survey – the lowest number across all countries surveyed, including Canada, the US, the UK, New Zealand, and Australia.
In short, Saffas are some of the world’s most open-minded travellers when it comes to preparing for potential holiday hiccups. And with airport strikes, wild weather, lost luggage, and surprise illnesses all on the rise, it turns out we might just be onto something.
So, what does travel insurance really cover, why are so many South Africans making it non-negotiable for every trip, and how can Flight Centre help you dodge costly curveballs? Read on for a no-nonsense guide to getting the cover you need.
Why we’re the travel insurance champions
Many South Africans treat travel insurance as a holiday essential – right up there with sunblock and a power bank. According to Flight Centre’s Global PR survey, nine in ten local travellers would consider taking out a policy, most often for medical emergencies or lost luggage. Gen Xers are especially savvy (more likely than younger generations to get covered for medical mishaps), while Baby Boomers lead the pack in making insurance non-negotiable.
Maybe it’s our collective “just-in-case” mentality or the fact that many of us have skipped new shoes or dinner out to fund our holidays (because interestingly, nearly half of South Africans have actively cut down on their spending to be able to afford their trips). Whatever drives us, Saffas know that real adventure still means planning for the unexpected – and trusting an expert who can spot risks you may never see coming.
What travel insurance actually covers (and why it matters)
Travel insurance is your holiday safety net. It steps in when things get messy, so you don’t have to drain your savings or call Mom for financial help from a foreign hospital.
“The real value is peace-of-mind,” says Sue Garrett, GM Supply, Pricing and Marketing at Flight Centre South Africa. “You can relax knowing that if life throws a curveball, your plans won’t unravel as a result.”
Here’s what most travel insurance policies cover:
- Medical emergencies: From sudden illness in Bali to a sprained ankle in Spain, you’re covered for hospital stays, treatment and even air ambulance evacuation if needed.
- Trip cancellations (or trips cut short): If illness, injury, or family emergencies force you to cancel or come home early, you’ll usually be reimbursed for non-refundable bookings.
- Lost, stolen, or delayed luggage: When your suitcase takes the scenic route without you, insurance covers essentials until it’s reunited or replaced.
- Flight delays: Missed connections due to weather or strikes? Most policies pay for meals and accommodation after a set delay (usually 6–12 hours).
- Personal liability: If an accidental oopsie ruins someone else’s day (or suitcase), legal expenses are handled.
- Emergency assistance services: 24/7 helplines for everything from lost passports to urgent medical advice.
What isn’t covered – don’t get caught out!
Travel insurance isn’t a magic wand. There are limits, and ignoring the fine print could leave you footing a hefty bill.
- Known events: If a strike or disaster is public knowledge before you buy your policy, don’t expect your claim to fly.
- Strikes and industrial action: Many policies exclude these disruptions unless you’ve added extra cover – always double-check.
- Heatwaves and discomfort: Too hot to sightsee? Claims won’t be paid out unless extreme weather escalates into an actual disaster (like wildfires closing hotels).
- Change of heart: Deciding not to travel due to nerves or unrest isn’t covered.
- Pre-existing medical conditions: Unless declared upfront and specifically included, these are often excluded.
- Mental health and alcohol/drug-related incidents: Claims from psychiatric conditions or mishaps after one too many cocktails usually aren’t covered.
“Read every line of your policy – even the boring bits. We’ve seen travellers get caught out by exclusions they didn’t know existed. Rather ask us before you go than regret it when it’s too late,” Garrett advises.
The real costs of going without cover
A medical emergency abroad can be financially devastating. Private hospitals in countries like the US can charge up to $10,000 (nearly R180K) a day for intensive care. Medical evacuation? That could set you back more than $150,000 (more than R2.5 million). Even something as minor as emergency dental work or a lost passport quickly adds up.
Without insurance, you’re on the hook for every cent. And while some medical schemes offer limited cover overseas, they often come with strict conditions and high deductibles. Garrett explains:
“We’ve seen travellers forced to max out credit cards or borrow from family after an accident abroad, all because they thought ‘it won’t happen to me.’ The real question is not ‘Can I afford to take out travel insurance on top of the cost of my holiday?’, it’s ‘Can I afford not to have cover if it’s needed?’’.”
How to get the most from your travel insurance
- Buy early: The sooner you purchase your policy after booking, the more events (like sudden illness or family emergencies) are covered.
- Read every word: Yes, it’s tedious; but knowing your exclusions could save you thousands.
- Double-check add-ons: If you’re going somewhere known for strikes or unpredictable weather, ask about optional extras – don’t assume standard cover is enough.
- Keep every slip: Receipts, police reports, emails from airline – claims demand proof.
And if in doubt?
“Ask your travel expert,” says Sue Garrett. “They’ve seen it all, and they know which questions to ask so that you’re covered for what matters most to you.”
With South Africans leading the world in travel insurance savvy, it’s clear we know that peace of mind is truly priceless.
