Indonesia maintained its status as the top travel spot for Australian holidaymakers in 2024, however, the popular destination also reached new heights for Bali insurance claims among Aussie travellers last year.
Australian Bureau of Statistics data showed Indonesia was the most popular destination for Aussie travellers in 2024 with a record-breaking 1.67 million visitors.
1Cover Travel Insurance revealed its policy sales to Indonesia rose by 25 per cent in 2024 compared to the previous year and surpassed 2019 levels by 50 per cent.
However, Indonesia, and particularly Bali, continued to top the list as the destination with the most claims.
In 2024, claims to the region rose by 40 per cent year-on-year with illness and injury (predominantly gastro, falls and scooter accidents) being the primary causes.
Indonesia accounted for three of 1Cover’s most costly claims in 2024, including a $287,544 claim after a traveller fell seriously ill in Lombok, requiring intubation and an air evacuation.
This data aligns with the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade’s most recent State of Play report, revealing Indonesia to be the second highest country for Aussies seeking help overseas.
Additionally, the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki last week drew focus to Bali’s travel risks with flights in and out of Denpasar cancelled.
This followed similar disruptions in November 2024 when the same volcano erupted, leading to widespread flight cancellations.
1Cover Travel Insurance COO Natalie Ball said while Indonesia remained an affordable destination for Australians due to the low cost of travel, the cost of a medical incident can be high.
“We’ve seen a marked interest in travel to Indonesia’s smaller islands as travellers seek authentic, affordable experiences,” she said.
“However, claims have skyrocketed, along with cases of gastro, falls and scooter accidents. We also saw a troubling spike in dengue fever, especially in parts of Bali.
“It’s crucial for travellers to remember that remote islands may not have adequate medical facilities requiring air transfers, and hospitals in Bali and throughout Indonesia may refuse treatment without proof of coverage, so make sure you double-check you have sufficient travel insurance before you go.”
