Unfortunately not every person or situation can be covered under travel insurance. Insurance companies must keep their risk as low as possible, so that they can make a profit while still funding the claims that come in. This is a necessary way of business that allows them to keep their doors open, but its effects are hardest on those who fall under certain “high-risk” categories.

Below are the most common reasons why one may not be able to obtain travel insurance coverage and activities that may not be coverable.

Hospitalisation or medical care stemming from a pre-existing condition

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, the insurance company will want to know about it before they give you a policy. Most companies will not cover hospitalisation or medical care that stems from a pre-existing condition. Travel insurance is designed to cover claims that are specific of your trip and would not have happened if you had stayed home. You can still get coverage for accidents and injuries that can occur on your trip, even if you have a pre-existing medical condition.

Injuries from participation in extreme sports

Coverage for injuries and/or death related to an extreme sport can be tricky. Some companies won’t want to cover these high-risk activities at all, while others will be glad to cover some or all of these hobbies for an additional fee. Finding a company to cover you at a reasonable cost may be difficult, but it can be done.

Age

Those in good health can usually obtain coverage from an insurance provider no matter how old they are. However, some companies will not let those over age 65 take out certain policies, so choice may be limited. Most companies assess those over 65 on a case-by-case basis, rather than eliminating everyone in the age group. Policies are determined by overall health, destination, and length of trip. For example, older policy seekers may not be able to get coverage for a trip lasting 6+ months. If you are a senior planning a trip, read the Australian government’s tips for traveling seniors, to help make your trip as relaxing & predictable as possible.

Length of trip

Most travel insurance policies will not insure those staying in their destination over a certain amount of time, usually 12-18 months maximum. There may also be additional trip length restrictions depending on your destination. For example, you may be covered only up to 12 months if travelling to the Americas, but up to 18 months for any other destination.

Already at destination

Travel insurance policies are designed to be set up before you leave. Most companies will not insure you for your trip if you have already left. However, some may allow you to take a one-way policy out to cover your journey home.

Other restrictions may apply depending on which company you look into; however, these are the most common restrictions and disqualifying items that you will encounter during your travel insurance search.