Thousands of Australian teens are planning their upcoming schoolies trips – and Bali will be one of the top overseas destinations.
To be more precise, as November nears, more than 8,000 schoolies have been predicted to head to the Indonesian province known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife and budget-friendly appeal.
With Bali a popular choice among schoolies, airlines are responding to the growing demand by increasing flights to Denpasar from Australia. For instance, AirAsia has recently introduced direct flights from Cairns, while Jetstar has added 10 new weekly flights.
As schoolies prepare to travel, Aussies have been warned of the importance of comprehensive travel insurance – especially to places like Bali, where high-adrenaline activities can sometimes get the better of travellers.
“Bali promises an unforgettable experience for teens undertaking the ultimate rite of passage that is Schoolies,” Insure&Go spokesperson David Mayo says.
“Even though the Indonesian island is sometimes considered an extension of Australia, it’s advisable for travellers to remember that there is no reciprocal health agreement, which is why comprehensive insurance is an absolute must.
“As for any trip abroad, it’s vital your insurance policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, medical evacuations and adventurous activities. Additionally, adhering to the local laws is essential, as violating them could invalidate your insurance claims.
“In Indonesia, drug offences are taken very seriously and can lead to heavy fines, long prison sentences, and even the death penalty.
“Schoolies should respect the drinking age of 21 and prescription drug regulations, which extend to certain medications, including those for ADHD and cannabis-based oils.”
Indonesia’s Department of Immigration recently announced it would also take a tougher stance on visa violations, with significant penalties for tourists who overstay or fail to meet visa requirements.
Mayo recommends Aussies visit the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s (DFAT) Smartraveller website before departing and ensure emergency contacts and itineraries are sent to family and friends.
The latest Australian Travel Industry Association ATIA Travel Trends Report shows that Indonesia is still our top holiday hotspot in 2024, with 1.59 million Aussies heading over there – up 34 per cent year-on-year.
