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Travel Insurance For Backpackers

Travelling light and far? Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance can support backpacking adventures and flexible plans, with cover for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, luggage and more while you explore the world.

Backpacker Travel Insurance for Flexible Trips and Big Adventures

Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance is designed to support Aussie backpackers on their next adventure. Whether you’re travelling light through Southeast Asia for a few weeks or living out of a suitcase on a longer journey across South America, we offer cover options to match your route, travel style and budget. 

Here’s why so many backpackers choose Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance: 

  • Flexible regions cover: if you’re not sure where your travels will take you, choose a region that covers several countries, giving you the flexibility to explore under one policy ^ 
  • Long trip options: get cover for trips lasting up to 24 months and extend your policy if you decide to keep travelling ^ 
  • Adventure cover: choose optional extras such as the Adventure Pack or Motorcycle Pack if your backpacking trip includes high-altitude hiking, quad biking, skydiving or motorcycle riding ^ 
  • Different cover levels: select from Comprehensive, Standard Saver, Basics, Snow Sports Plus, Frequent Traveller Saver, Snow Sports Plus or Domestic Plus cover options to suit your trip type and budget ^ 

Every traveller’s needs are different, so check the PDS to find the right policy for you. Any advice is general advice only and doesn't consider your personal and financial circumstances. 

What Does Backpacker Travel Insurance Cover?

Backpacking is full of freedom and adventure, but spontaneous travel plans, unpredictable transport, shared hostels and living out of a backpack on the go can bring unexpected events. Fast Cover’s travel insurance offers a range of benefits to help backpackers stay prepared and handle unexpected situations throughout their adventures. 

This is only a summary of some benefits available. Not all benefits apply to all policies, so always review the PDS before deciding to buy.   

Trip Cancellation Expenses

Trip Cancellation Expenses

Non-refundable and pre-paid trip bookings such as flights, hostels, or multi-day tours that you’ve already paid for can be expensive to lose if something goes wrong before you leave for your backpacking trip. 

Fast Cover’s Trip Cancellation Expenses benefit may help protect the non-refundable bookings you’ve already paid for if you need to cancel your overseas trip due to circumstances covered under your policy, for example, an unexpected illness or injury. You can take out a travel insurance policy with cancellation cover up to 12 months before your backpacking trip. ^ 

Overseas 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance

Overseas 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance

Getting sick or injured overseas can be stressful, especially if you’re backpacking alone, in an unfamiliar destination or far from your accommodation. Fast Cover’s travel insurance for backpackers provides access to our Australian-based Emergency Assistance team any time of the day or night. ^ 

Depending on your situation, the team may be able to help by: 

  • Arranging medical treatment or hospital admission overseas 
  • Coordinating approved medical evacuation or repatriation to Australia 
  • Providing advice on local medical facilities and support services  
Overseas Emergency Medical and Hospital Expenses

Overseas Emergency Medical and Hospital Expenses

An overseas hospital visit is the last thing you might want while backpacking, but if you get Bali Belly, break a bone in South America or need surgery in Europe, Fast Cover may be able to help with overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses in circumstances covered under your policy. ^   

Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance can provide cover for reasonable additional accommodation and transport expenses, as well as the cost of medical transfer, evacuation, or repatriation when these services are approved under your policy. All medical evacuations and repatriations must be arranged and approved by Fast Cover before they take place.

Overseas Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Expenses

Overseas Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation Expenses

If you experience a serious medical emergency while backpacking, you might need to be transported to the nearest hospital for emergency treatment or brought back to Australia with medical supervision. 

Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance can provide cover for reasonable additional accommodation and transport expenses, as well as the cost of medical transfer, evacuation, or repatriation when these services are approved under your policy. All medical evacuations and repatriations must be arranged and approved by Fast Cover before they take place. ^ 

Lost, Stolen or Damaged Luggage and Personal Effects

Lost, Stolen or Damaged Luggage and Personal Effects

When you’re living out of a backpack, every item counts. If your gear or personal items are lost, stolen, or damaged while travelling, Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance may include cover for luggage and personal items to repair or replace them. ^ 

This can include belongings like backpacks, clothing, cameras, laptops, or phones when the loss or damage occurs in situations covered by your policy. Benefit limits and sub-limits apply to each item, so always check the PDS to understand how much you can claim and when cover applies. ^ 

Travel Delay Expenses

Travel Delay Expenses

Backpacking through multiple destinations often involves lots of transport, and travel delays can be a common part of the journey. If your pre-booked transport is cancelled and rescheduled or delayed in situations covered under your policy, Fast Cover’s Travel Delay Expenses benefit may be able to reimburse you for the reasonable cost of extra meals and accommodation.

This benefit may include reimbursement of reasonable extra expenses up to $200 for each insured traveller for every 24-hour period your transport is delayed by at least 6 hours due to circumstances outside your control. ^ 

Trip Disruptions Expenses

Trip Disruptions Expenses

Unexpected events such as a strike, riot, hijack, civil protest, severe weather or natural disaster could cause your scheduled or connecting transport to be cancelled, delayed, shortened or diverted, disrupting your backpacking trip. 

Fast Cover’s Trip Disruption Expenses may cover reasonable additional travel and accommodation costs you incur during your trip if the disruption happens for a reason covered by your policy. This benefit applies to each insured traveller listed on the policy, as long as those expenses cannot be recovered from another source. The event must have started after your Certificate of Insurance was issued.

Optional Extras for Backpacker Travel Insurance

Every backpacking trip is different, and your backpacker travel insurance can be adjusted to match the way you travel. Whether you are hiking across mountain ranges, exploring cities by scooter, or road-tripping through a few countries, Fast Cover’s optional add-ons give you the flexibility to tailor your policy to your trip. 

These extras can help you include cover for a range of activities and adventures to fit you and your backpacking plans. Depending on your policy type, the following optional add-ons may be available with your backpacker travel insurance. 

Cover for Riding or Being a Passenger on a Motorcycle, Moped or Scooter Overseas

Cover for Riding or Being a Passenger on a Motorcycle, Moped or Scooter Overseas

Exploring on two wheels is one of the most popular ways for backpackers to see the world. Whether it is a scooter ride through Southeast Asia or a motorcycle trip through the hills of Europe, it’s important to add the right cover for this kind of travel.

Fast Cover’s Motorcycle Pack is an optional extra that you can add to your Comprehensive travel insurance policy that may provide cover to you for being the rider or passenger on a:    

  • Motorcycle,    
  • Moped, or   
  • Scooter. ^   

The Motorcycle Pack is available at an additional premium for Aussie travellers aged 74 years and under at the date of policy issue when they purchase an international travel insurance policy. ^   

For more details visit our page on travel insurance for riding a motorcycle overseas and read our PDS for terms and conditions of cover for the Motorcycle Pack.   

man wearing helmet riding scooter
Cover for Adventure Activities

Cover for Adventure Activities

If your backpacking trip includes adventure activities, you may want to include the Adventure Pack. This optional extra gives you the ability to add cover for a wider range of adrenaline-filled or physically demanding activities that are not automatically included in your policy. ^ 

Examples of some activities that require the Adventure Pack include:   

  • Abseiling   
  • Outdoor rock climbing   
  • Quad biking   
  • Tandem parachuting and tandem skydiving   
  • Sailing from 10 -15 nautical miles off any land mass    
  • Scuba diving up to a depth of 30 m   
  • Water skiing, jet skiing, and speedboating    

Conditions apply for activities under our Adventure Pack so make sure to read the PDS for full T&Cs.   

The Adventure Pack is available at an additional premium as an optional cover for Aussie travellers aged 74 and under (at the date of policy issue) when they purchase a Comprehensive, Standard Saver, Snow Sports Plus, Domestic Plus or Frequent Traveller Saver policy. ^   

For more details, visit our page on travel insurance for adventure activities.   

two women preparing for tandem skydiving
Cover for Your Rental Vehicle Excess

Cover for Your Rental Vehicle Excess

Backpackers often hire a car or campervan to travel between cities or countries. Rental vehicles can be a great way to explore at your own pace but often come with a high rental vehicle insurance excess if something goes wrong.

If your rental vehicle is in an accident, damaged or stolen during your trip overseas, Fast Cover can, depending on the policy chosen, and on payment of additional premium provide reasonable additional cover of up to $8,000 for the rental vehicle excess component of your rental vehicle insurance with your car hire company overseas. ^ 

The rental vehicle excess benefit applies to a:   

  • Sedan, hatchback, or station wagon,      
  • Four-wheel drive or minibus/people mover, or   
  • Campervan or motorhome (up to 4.5 tonnes),    

rented from a licensed motor vehicle rental company (including vehicles rented from peer-to-peer carsharing platforms). ^   

For more details visit our page on rental vehicle excess cover and read our PDS for terms and conditions of cover for rental vehicle excess.    

van parked near the ocean
Specified High Value Items

Specified High Value Items

Are you backpacking with high value items and worried they will get lost, stolen or damaged? If you would like to cover your valuable items for more than what they’re covered for under the standard luggage and personal effects terms and conditions, you can choose to specify them as a specified high value item for an additional premium. ^

Below are some examples of items you may be able to specify as high value items, they will be specifically listed on your certificate of insurance to confirm cover.  

  • Phone   
  • Laptop  
  • Camera   

For more details visit our page on travel insurance for luggage and personal effects and read our PDS on terms and conditions of cover for luggage and personal effects.   

person typing on laptop
Cover for Snow Sports

Cover for Snow Sports

If your backpacking journey includes a stop in the mountains for skiing or snowboarding, answer yes to ‘Skiing and Snowboarding’ during your quote application. This gives you the option to purchase a “Snow Sports Plus Policy” which can provide cover for costs associated with ski and snow sports. ^ 

Below are some examples of things that may be covered in your snow sports benefits: 

  • loss or theft of, or accidental damage to snow sports equipment, 
  • for hiring replacement snow sports equipment that is necessary to continue with your original itinerary if snow sports equipment owned by you has been misdirected or delayed for a period of more than 24-hours, or has been accidentally damaged, lost or stolen during your trip, 
  • if you are injured or become sick during your trip and are unable to utilise the full duration of your pre-booked and pre-paid lift passes, snow sports equipment hire, or lessons, we will reimburse you the percentage amount of the unused portion for each insured person, and 
  • the cost of transport and lift passes at an alternate ski resort,  

in conditions and circumstances covered under your policy and as per limits and sub limits set out in our PDS. ^  

The Snow Sports Plus policy is available at an additional premium for Aussie travellers aged 69 and under at the date of policy issue, when they purchase an international travel insurance policy. ^  

For more details visit our page on travel insurance for skiing and snowboarding and read our PDS for terms and conditions of cover for Snow Sports.  

 

person skiing in the snow
Cover for Cruises

Cover for Cruises

If your backpacking route includes a cruise, you can choose to add cruise cover to your travel insurance policy. This option can extend your cover to include events that occur while you are on board the cruise ship or during on shore excursions where no reimbursement is provided by the cruise company. ^

To be covered for a cruise, you must select cruise cover at the time of purchase based on your destination and trip length.

  • If you are travelling within Australian waters, the New Zealand or the South Pacific region for 1night or more, you must specify cruise cover at the time of purchase  
  • If you are travelling on a cruise within Asia, Europe or Worldwide regions for 4 nights or more, you must specify cruise cover at the time of purchase.  

By adding this option, your existing Family travel insurance benefits will extend to when you’re on a cruise, whether it’s a domestic or international voyage. Adding cruise cover to your policy allows you to have cover both on board and on land, helping you stay covered throughout your entire trip. ^ 

For more details, visit our page on travel insurance for cruises and read our PDS for terms and conditions of cover for travelling on cruise ships.

cruise ship on ocean

 

Medical Conditions Cover for Backpackers

Having an existing medical condition doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t get travel insurance. With Fast Cover, you may be able to obtain backpacker travel insurance that includes cover for an existing medical condition under the applicable policy benefits. 

To find out if we can provide cover for your condition, you’ll need to complete a medical screening during your quote journey where you tell us about: 

  • Any medical or pregnancy conditions you or any insured family member have, or have had, in the 3 years prior to your policy issue date, and 
  • Any new medical or pregnancy conditions that develop, or changes to your health, after your policy issue date and before you depart on your trip. 

It’s important that you declare all relevant medical or pregnancy conditions for each insured traveller when applying for a quote. If a condition is approved through the medical screening process, it will be listed on your Certificate of Insurance and will then be included under your cover. Any relevant medical or pregnancy condition that is not declared or not listed on your Certificate of Insurance will not be covered. 

If your health changes after purchasing your policy but before you travel, you will need to contact Fast Cover for a medical re-screening. This process may adjust your premium and will determine whether your condition can continue to be covered 

Please keep in mind that some existing medical conditions may require you to pay an additional cost for them to be included under your cover. You have the choice to either pay for this additional cost or not. If you choose to pay, the condition will be added to your policy and shown on your Certificate of Insurance. If you choose not to pay, that condition will not be covered.

How to Apply for Cover for Existing Medical Conditions

If you or your fellow backpacker has any existing medical conditions, you may be able to apply to include cover for them during your trip. Our simple medical screening process can be completed online or over the phone to help you find out if your medical condition or pregnancy condition can be covered under your travel insurance policy. Please note the quote process might be slightly different based on the type of cover chosen. 

Select Who Needs Cover

Once you've added all travellers, to your policy, you can select those who wish to add cover for any existing medical conditions. 

Take a Medical Screening

Answer a few questions online or over the phone about your health history. This helps us determine if your condition can be covered. 

Choose to Add Cover

We'll let you know if we can provide cover for any existing medical conditions. You can then choose to add it to your policy. 

To find out more about our medical screening process, and how the policy will apply in relation to an existing medical condition, please read and consider the PDS for eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits that apply. 

How Does Backpacker Travel Insurance Works?

Backpacking trips often last longer and may change more than regular holidays. You might start in one country, decide to stay longer, or keep adding destinations as you go. Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance is designed to support that kind of flexibility, giving you continuous cover while you explore the world. 

Here’s how it works and what to keep in mind before and during your trip. 

Many backpackers leave Australia on a one-way ticket and decide later when to return home, and that’s okay. Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance can provide cover for Australians travelling overseas without a confirmed return ticket, as long as you intend to return to Australia when your trip ends. 

Your Medicare eligibility remains valid until you return, and Fast Cover uses this as part of confirming your eligibility for cover. 

To be eligible for a one-way policy without a return ticket, you must be an Australian citizen and permanent resident of Australia, and: 

✓ Currently reside in Australia; and 
✓ Hold a valid Australian Medicare card beyond the period of your policy; and 
✓ Purchase your policy before you commence your trip, or satisfy all requirements for purchasing a policy while you are already overseas; and 
✓ Ensure your trip starts and ends in Australia; and 
✓ Meet any other eligibility criteria that apply during the application process.^ 

This flexibility allows you to start your backpacking adventure with an open itinerary, while still knowing you’re protected from the moment you depart. 

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Backpacking trips can evolve, and Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance is built for that. If you decide to keep travelling, you may be able to extend your policy before it expires, often through the portal on Fast Cover’s website.^ 

Depending on your circumstances, you can extend cover for up to 24 months in total. Extensions may involve an additional premium, and pricing or availability can depend on your health and travel status at the time of extension. To stay continuously covered, always apply for an extension before your current policy expires. 

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If you’ve already left Australia and begun your backpacking trip overseas, you may still be eligible to purchase an already overseas policy with Fast Cover, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and your trip started from Australia originally.^ 

This can be helpful for travellers who forgot to buy cover before leaving or decided to extend a shorter trip into a longer backpacking journey. Please note that there are a few conditions for buying an Already Overseas policy including 48 hours no cover period and a $500 excess for an already overseas policy.  

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If something happens overseas, from lost luggage to a medical emergency, help is available 24/7. 

What to do: 

  • Contact Fast Cover’s Emergency Assistance team immediately in case of an emergency. They can help arrange medical treatment, hospital admission, or evacuation if needed. ^ 
  • Keep all documents and receipts related to your situation, such as police reports, medical records, or proof of expenses. 
  • Submit your claim online through Fast Cover’s claims portal or by completing a claim form. Supporting documents help assess your claim quickly and accurately. 

Fast Cover’s Australian-based team is available to guide you through the process wherever you are in the world. 

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Backpacking routes often change, and your cover should keep up. If you decide to travel to a country outside your current insured region (for example, adding the USA or Canada), you’ll need to update your policy. 

You can also add activity packs like the Adventure Pack or Motorcycle Pack later if your plans change and you decide to go diving, hiking, or ride a scooter provided age conditions are met. 

To make updates, simply contact Fast Cover on 1300 409 322 or send us an email to info@fastcover.com.au or log in to your policy on the Fast Cover website to adjust your destinations or add-ons.^ 

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One of the best features of backpacker travel insurance is that it follows you across countries within your chosen region, without needing a new policy every time you move. As long as you’re travelling within your covered region (for example, all countries in Southeast Asia or Europe), you’ll have continuous cover throughout your trip. 

Maintaining continuous cover helps prevent “gaps” between policies, which means you have cover even when crossing borders or taking short detours. ^ 

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Your backpacker travel insurance ends either on the policy expiry date or when you return to Australia, whichever comes first.^ You can still lodge a claim after you return home for incidents that occurred during your trip, as long as they fall within the policy period and you have the required documentation. 

If you’re planning another adventure, you can renew or purchase a new policy before heading off again, whether it’s for a short trip or another long backpacking journey. 

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Backpacker Travel Insurance for Your Next Backpacking Trip

Whether you’re off on a gap year, backpacking across countries, or taking time out to explore the world, choose the level of cover that fits your trip. 

Insurance Cover Options for Your Backpacker Travel Insurance 

At Fast Cover, we offer a range of cover options designed for backpackers visiting multiple destinations, taking extended trips or travelling with flexible plans. The options below are a summary of some of the benefits available under the various policies, please see the PDS for full details. 

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Comprehensive Travel Insurance is considered as Fast Cover's most popular policy option. It provides the highest level of cover amongst our existing products for the widest range of unexpected situations like overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses, overseas emergency medical assistance, accidental death and loss of income.  

Standard Saver Travel Insurance

The Standard Saver Travel Insurance policy provides many benefits similar to our Comprehensive policy, such as benefits relating to your health as well as many similar benefits with lower limits like trip cancellation, trip disruption and luggage and personal effects when you travel. ^  

Basics (Medical Only) Travel Insurance

Our Basics Travel Insurance policy type is a simple way of taking steps to obtain cover for one of the most important things in life - your health. You can also apply to customise your policy and include cover under the luggage and personal effects benefit up to $2000. ^  

More Than One Trip? Consider Multi-Trip Travel Insurance for Frequent Travellers  

If you are backpacking overseas frequently, you can get a quote for a Frequent Traveller Saver Policy when you take out international travel insurance. We can provide cover for an unlimited number of trips in a 12-month period up to a specified number of days each trip. ^ 

Do I Need Backpacker Travel Insurance? 

If you are planning a long backpacking trip, you might be wondering whether you really need travel insurance. Many travellers start their journeys without thinking about what would happen if things went wrong while far from home. Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance is designed to help protect against unexpected situations that can happen when you are travelling for weeks or months at a time, often through several countries. 

When you are travelling on a budget, every dollar matters. Unexpected medical bills, lost belongings, or cancelled transport can quickly add up and disrupt your plans. Travel insurance can help reduce the financial impact of those events and help you get back on track. 

Here are some examples of situations to think about when deciding whether you need backpacker travel insurance. 

Travelling for Longer Periods to Multiple Countries

Travelling for Longer Periods to Multiple Countries

Backpacking often means extended travel with flexible plans. You might start in one country and end up exploring many more along the way. Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance can provide cover for trips lasting up to 24 months, giving you flexibility to visit as many countries as your itinerary allows within your chosen region. ^ 

This can be helpful if you want to stay longer in one place, take spontaneous detours, or explore multiple regions without needing separate policies. Choosing the right regional cover at the time of purchase ensures you are protected across all the destinations included in your policy. 

Adventure Activities

Adventure Activities

Adventure is often a big part of backpacking. Many travellers choose to go hiking above 3000m (Adventure pack covers altitudes up to 6000m), go quad biking on tropical island, or rent scooters to explore cities and coastlines. These experiences are what make backpacking memorable, but they can also increase the risk of accidents or injury.

Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance can include optional extras such as the Adventure Pack or Motorcycle Pack, allowing you to add cover for adventure activities or riding a motorcycle, moped or scooter overseas. ^

Getting Sick or Injured While Travelling

Getting Sick or Injured While Travelling

When you are backpacking, even small accidents can become complicated and expensive. Medical costs overseas can be high, and in some destinations, you may be required to pay upfront for hospital care.

Fast Cover’s international travel insurance policies include cover for overseas emergency medical and hospital expenses if you become unexpectedly sick or injured while travelling and emergency medical evacuation and repatriation in circumstances covered under your policy. ^

If Your Trip is Delayed or Disrupted

If Your Trip is Delayed or Disrupted

Backpacking often means moving between countries, taking budget flights, trains or ferries. Transport delays or cancellations can happen for many reasons such as weather, strikes, or natural disasters.

Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance may include cover for reasonable additional accommodation and meal costs if your transport is delayed or disrupted due to an event covered under your policy. This can help when you need to pay for extra nights in a hostel or rearrange travel plans on short notice. ^

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Belongings

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Belongings

When you are living out of a backpack, losing your gear can be more than just inconvenient. Whether it is a stolen phone, a damaged camera, or missing clothes, replacing your items overseas can be costly.

Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance may include Luggage and Personal Effects cover for loss, theft, or accidental damage to your belongings, up to the limits listed in your policy. ^

Unexpected Cancellations Before You Leave

Unexpected Cancellations Before You Leave

Sometimes plans change before your trip even starts. You might need to cancel a tour, change your flight, or delay your trip because of an emergency.

Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance may include a Trip Cancellation Expenses benefit that can reimburse the non-refundable costs of your prepaid arrangements if the reason for cancellation is covered by your policy. ^

These are only some of the situations that you might wish to consider when deciding if you need backpacker travel insurance.     

Before you decide whether you need backpacker travel insurance for your trip, you should read the PDS to check what our travel insurance will and won’t cover you for, any conditions and exclusions that might apply to you and whether the policy provides the cover that you’re looking for. Any advice is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs.  

What is the Best Backpacker Travel Insurance?    

When you’re planning a backpacking trip, finding the best travel insurance isn’t just about price. It’s about choosing the policy that matches your trip length, destinations, and the type of adventures you have planned. 

Backpackers often look for flexible cover, high medical limits, and 24/7 medical support they can rely on if something goes wrong while travelling. The best backpacker travel insurance for you depends on your route, activities, and what level of cover matters most to you. Here are some key things to consider when comparing policies and deciding what might suit your backpacking journey:

Consider the Level of Cover Your Trip Needs

Consider the Level of Cover Your Trip Needs

When you’re planning a backpacking trip, it can be hard to know how much cover you really need. Should you go for the most comprehensive policy, or will basic medical cover do the job for now? Long-term travel often means balancing cost, flexibility, and the peace of knowing you’re protected when you need it most.

Fast Cover offers several levels of cover so you can choose what fits your journey best, from Basics with medical-only protection to Comprehensive cover that includes cancellations, luggage and more. When comparing options, check what’s included and what the benefit limits are for each policy. Understanding the scope of cover can help you find the best family travel insurance for your needs.

Consider Your Travel Destinations and Regions

Consider Your Travel Destinations and Regions

Backpackers rarely stick to one country. With open-ended itineraries and constantly changing routes, figuring out how your travel insurance applies to multiple destinations can be confusing.  

Fast Cover offers five regional options:  Worldwide, Europe, Asia, South Pacific, and New Zealand, so you can select the one that best matches your route. 

Choosing regional cover is especially useful if you’re: 

  • Travelling through multiple countries on one trip, such as across Southeast Asia or through Europe 
  • Taking a round-the-world journey that includes several stops 
  • Travelling long-term (Fast Cover can provide cover for trips lasting up to 24 months) ^ 
  • Keeping your plans open and deciding where to go as you travel 
  • Joining group tours or overland trips that pass through several countries 

When comparing travel insurance options, look for policies that offer regional flexibility, support longer trips, and allow you to travel freely within your chosen region, ideal for backpackers with flexible or evolving itineraries. ^ 

Consider How Flexible Your Policy Is

Consider How Flexible Your Policy Is

Backpackers don’t always travel with a set plan. You might decide to stay longer in one country, add a new destination halfway through your trip, or change your departure date as your plans evolve. Many travellers worry that once they’ve bought their insurance, it’s locked in and can’t adapt if their journey changes.

Fast Cover's backpacker travel insurance is designed with flexibility in mind, because no two backpacking trips are the same. You can extend your policy for up to 24 months, giving you the freedom to keep travelling longer without needing to start a brand-new policy. ^

If your plans change before you leave Australia, you can also adjust your departure date on your policy before your trip begins. And if you decide to add another country to your itinerary, you may be able to extend your regional cover for an additional cost, so your protection keeps up with your travels. ^ This flexibility makes Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance ideal for travellers who like to keep their plans open, explore at their own pace, or take spontaneous detours along the way.

When comparing policies, check whether other insurers allow you to extend cover mid-trip or adjust destinations easily. Choosing a policy that adapts as you go can save you time, effort, and the hassle of reapplying for new cover every time your travel plans change.

Consider The Activities You Plan to Do

Consider The Activities You Plan to Do

Backpacking isn’t just about moving from place to place; it’s about trying new things along the way. Whether that’s hiking in Nepal, diving in the Philippines, skiing in Japan, or renting a scooter in Vietnam, adventure often comes with your backpacking lifestyle. But not all travel insurance automatically includes cover for these activities. Without the right options added, you might not be covered if something goes wrong while you’re out exploring. 

When choosing travel insurance, make sure your policy includes or allows you to add cover for the activities you plan to do. Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance offers optional extras that let you tailor your policy to the way you travel. This includes the Adventure Pack for adventure activities and the Motorcycle Pack for riding or being a passenger on a motorcycle, moped or scooter overseas. ^ 

Consider Who You're Backpacking With

Consider Who You're Backpacking With

Not every backpacker travels alone. You might be sharing the journey with a friend, partner, or travel buddy. Buying separate policies can be confusing and sometimes more expensive, especially if you’re on the same itinerary and staying together. 

Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance offers options for both single and duo travellers. If you’re backpacking as a pair, you can take out a Duo policy, covering both travellers under one certificate when you’re on the same trip and itinerary. ^ It’s simple, easy to manage, and ideal for friends or couples travelling together under one policy with shared details and consistent cover.

When comparing policies, see if your backpacker travel insurance allows you to include both travellers under one policy as it may help make your journey together much easier to manage.

Consider Medical Assistance

Consider Medical Assistance

Getting sick or injured while backpacking can be stressful and expensive, especially when you’re far from home. Many backpackers travel on tight budgets, stay in remote areas, or move between countries where medical systems work differently. Even a simple doctor’s visit can cost hundreds of dollars overseas, and some hospitals may require full payment upfront before treatment. Travelling alone can make it even harder to navigate local health systems or find the right care in an emergency.

When comparing policies, look closely at the medical benefit limits, medical evacuation and repatriation terms and conditions, and availability of 24/7 emergency medical assistance.

For long-term backpackers travelling across multiple countries, choosing a policy with reliable, always-on support can make all the difference if something unexpected happens abroad. Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance provides round-the-clock emergency medical support from an Australian-based Emergency Assistance team, ready to help you at any time during your trip. ^

Consider Cover for Existing Medical Conditions

Consider Cover for Existing Medical Conditions

Many backpackers travel with health conditions that are easy to manage at home, such as asthma, allergies, eczema or old sports injuries. But those same conditions can become more difficult to handle overseas, especially if a medical emergency occurs while you’re travelling for an extended period. 

Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance lets you declare and apply for cover for existing medical conditions during your quote journey. If approved, the condition will be listed on your Certificate of Insurance and included under your cover. ^ 

Choosing travel insurance that allows you to declare and apply for existing medical conditions ensures your policy reflects your personal health needs and provides the right level of support while you’re travelling. ^ 

These are just some of the considerations that you might wish to consider when reviewing the best backpacker travel insurance, so you know what cover is available to you before and during your trip overseas. Please remember to do your own research regarding this to make an informed decision based on your personal and financial circumstances. 

Before you decide on the best backpacker travel insurance for your trip, you should read the PDS to check what the policy will and won’t cover you for, any conditions and exclusions that might apply to you and whether the policy provides the cover that you’re looking for. Any advice is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs.  

 Multi Award-Winning Travel Insurance  

Winner Travel Insurance Award

2022, 2023, 2024 & 2025 ProductReview.com.au Travel Insurance Award† 

Winner Outstanding Value

 2024 Canstar Outstanding Value Award for Seniors Travel Insurance† 

Value for Money

2024 Finder Customer Service Satisfaction Awards† 

 Compare Backpackers Travel Insurance Benefits 

Depending on the type of policy you choose, Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance provides access to a range of benefits designed to suit the way backpackers travel. Each policy offers different levels of cover to help you prepare for and manage unexpected medical, travel, or financial situations that can arise during your trip. 

Whether you’re travelling solo or with a partner, on a short trip or exploring multiple countries for months at a time, you can choose a policy that fits your travel style, destinations, and budget. Compare our backpacker travel insurance policies and benefits below to find the one that best fits your plans and the way you travel. ^ 

The table below is only a summary of benefits. Each level of cover is subject to full policy terms, conditions, limits, sub-limits, and exclusions as per our PDS available on our website. Benefit limits shown apply per person for both Singles and Duo policies. # These benefit limits are shared between Duo policy holders. ~ These benefit limits are shared between travellers under a Family policy. This means the benefit amount is for the whole family to be used together, not for each person separately. ^ Cover under these benefits are excluded while travelling within Australia. If you hold a Frequent Traveller Saver policy, the benefit limits apply to the combined total of all claims made by all covered travellers (including an accompanying spouse/partner and dependants) listed on the Certificate of Insurance.


Medical Benefits

 Basics Domestic Plus Standard Saver Comprehensive Snow Sports Plus Frequent Traveller Saver

Overseas 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance^

sub-limits:

 Unlimited ––– Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited

Funeral/cremation Overseas and/or bringing your remains back to Australia (per person)

 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000

Repatriation of your mortal remains from a Schengen listed country back to Australia (only if you have an approved and valid Schengen visa)(per person)

 $60,000 ––– $60,000 $60,000 $60,000 $60,000

Overseas Emergency Medical & Hospital Expenses^

 Unlimited ––– Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited

Overseas Emergency Dental^

 $500 ––– $750 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000

Overseas Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation^

 Unlimited ––– Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited

Overseas Hospital Cash Payment^

sub-limits:

 ––– ––– ––– $5,000 $5,000 $5,000

Daily Limit (per person)

 $50 $50 $50

Accidental Death

Travellers Aged 80 to 89:
 ––– $25,000
$20,000		 ––– $25,000
$20,000		 $25,000
$20,000		 $25,000
$20,000

Accidental Death for travellers up to age 79

 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000 $25,000

Accidental Death for travellers aged 80 - 89

 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000

Accidental Death of a Dependant (per Dependant)

 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000

Permanent Disability^

Travellers Aged 80 to 89:
 ––– ––– ––– $50,000
$20,000		 $50,000
$20,000		 $25,000
$20,000

Permanent Disability for travellers up to age 79

 $50,000 $50,000 $25,000

Permanent Disability for travellers aged 80 - 89

 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000

Permanent Disability of a Dependant (per Dependant)

 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000

Loss of Income^

sub-limits:

 ––– ––– ––– $10,400 $10,400 $10,400

Weekly Limit (per person) - up to 26 weeks

 $400 $400 $400

Financial Benefits

 Basics Domestic Plus Standard Saver Comprehensive Snow Sports Plus Frequent Traveller Saver

Trip Cancellation Expenses

sub-limits:

 ––– Unlimited $25,000 Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited

Travel Agents Cancellation Fees

 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500

Close Relatives that do not meet Close relative conditions

 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000

Personal Liability~

 $1,000,000 $5,000,000 $2,500,000 $5,000,000 $5,000,000 $5,000,000

Trip Disruption Expenses

sub-limits:

 ––– $50,000 $30,000 $50,000 $50,000 $50,000

Close Relatives with a Pre-existing Medical Condition

 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000

Trip Resumption Expenses

 ––– $3,000 $2,000 $3,000 $3,000 $3,000

Luggage & Personal Effects

sub-limits:

 Optional
up to $2,000		 $7,500 $5,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000

Stand-alone personal computers, cameras and video recorders (excluding devices with integrated cameras or recording functions, such as mobile phones, Drones or similar devices) (per item)

 $3,000 $3,000 $3,000 $3,000 $3,000 $3,000

Mobile phones (per item)

 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500 $1,500

Tablets (per item)

 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000 $1,000

All other unspecified items (per item)

 $750 $750 $750 $750 $750 $750

Luggage and Personal Effects stolen from a Locked Storage Compartment of an unattended vehicle during daylight hours. We will pay up to $200 for each item and $2,000 in total for all stolen items.

$2,000 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000 $2,000

Passports, Credit Cards & Credit Card Fraud^

 ––– ––– $2,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000

Special Event Transport Expenses

 ––– $5,000 ––– $5,000 $5,000 $5,000

Rental Vehicle Excess#~

sub-limits:

 ––– $5,000 Optional
up to $8,000		 Optional
up to $8,000		 Optional Optional

Return of Rental Vehicle

 $500 $500 $500 $500 $500

Travel Delay Expenses

sub-limits:

 ––– $2,000 ––– $2,000 $2,000 $2,000

Daily Limit (per person)

(we will pay up to $200 for each full 24 hours beyond the initial 6 hour delay)

 $200 $200 $200 $200

Delay of Luggage and Personal Effects^

 ––– ––– ––– $750 $750 $750

Theft of Cash^~

 ––– ––– ––– $250 $250 $250

Snow Sports Benefits

 Basics Domestic Plus Standard Saver Comprehensive Snow Sports Plus Frequent Traveller Saver

Snow Sport Equipment

 ––– $1,500 ––– ––– $1,500 –––

Snow Equipment Replacement Hire

 ––– $1,500 ––– ––– $1,500 –––

Snow Prepaid Expenses

 ––– $750 ––– ––– $750 –––

Snow Resort Closure~

sub-limits:

 ––– $1,000 ––– ––– $1,000 –––

Daily Limit (per person)

 $100 $100

COVID-19 Benefits

 Basics Domestic Plus Standard Saver Comprehensive Snow Sports Plus Frequent Traveller Saver

COVID-19 Overseas Emergency Medical, Hospital & Medical Evacuation Expenses^

 Unlimited ––– Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited

Funeral/cremation Overseas and/or bringing your remains back to Australia (per person)

 $20,000 ––– $20,000 $20,000 $20,000 $20,000

Repatriation of your mortal remains from a Schengen listed country back to Australia (only if you have an approved and valid Schengen visa)(per person)

 $60,000 ––– $60,000 $60,000 $60,000 $60,000

COVID-19 Trip Cancellation & Disruption

––– $3,500 $3,000 $5,000 $5,000 $5,000

What is Not Covered in our Backpacker Travel Insurance?  

If you become injured while breaking the law

If you become injured while breaking the law

If you become injured while breaking the law, there are various conditions and exclusions that may apply which means you may not be covered. For example, this may include riding a motorcycle without the required helmet, or while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Remember that possession of certain drugs is illegal and different countries will have different laws. Using drugs or selling them can land you in trouble with the law overseas.

If you are intoxicated or have taken illicit drugs or prohibited substances

If you are intoxicated or have taken illicit drugs or prohibited substances

Whilst it may not be illegal to have a drink overseas, alcohol consumption laws vary from country to country, and between regions within some countries. Make sure to research your travel destinations and follow the local laws. Keep in mind that if you’ve drunk alcohol excessively, there are certain exclusions that may likely apply to your travel insurance policy. As an example, if you’re under the influence of alcohol and you stumble and hurt yourself, you may not have cover under your policy.

Certain drugs are illegal in some countries, and you may not be covered by your backpacker travel insurance policy when you’ve consumed drugs or been involved in drug related activities.

If you do an activity that isn’t covered by your policy

If you do an activity that isn’t covered by your policy

If you’re injured in an accident while, for example, riding a motorcycle, and you didn’t add the Motorcycle Pack to your travel insurance policy, you may be responsible for paying your medical and hospital expenses because you did not choose to include cover for that under your policy.

It is important to think about what activities you will be participating in so that you have the right cover for the activities you plan to do overseas.

Unsupervised belongings

Unsupervised belongings

If your belongings are stolen while unattended or unsupervised, you may not be able to claim for the stolen item. For example: If you leave your bag with your wallet and passport inside it on the beach while you go for a swim, this may be considered leaving your belongings unattended, in which case you may not be covered.

Make sure you keep your belongings with you at all times or keep them in a secure location or take reasonable measures to secure them at all times and at all places.

Regular medical or dental check-ups

Regular medical or dental check-ups

Backpacker travel insurance doesn’t cover routine check-ups, dental cleanings, or repeat prescriptions that could have been arranged before leaving Australia. If you take medication for asthma, allergies, or other regular treatments, bring enough for the whole trip. Only unexpected medical emergencies may be covered, depending on your policy.^

Ignoring official warnings

Ignoring official warnings

Should the Australian Government release a warning on official government Smartraveller website that certain areas overseas are no longer safe to travel to and you still choose to travel there anyway, there may be exclusions that will apply such as if you do not follow advice in the mass media where a travel advisory risk rating of Do Not Travel was issued after policy purchase.

Note: We are unable to offer travel insurance to international destinations that have a Do Not Travel warning on official government Smartraveller website. To check which countries we may cover, enter your destination country in the quote box on our website.  

Known events

Known events

Known events may include serious situations, from natural disasters like earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, to disease outbreaks, which can affect your holiday plans and also the cover on your overseas travel insurance policy.

If you buy your backpacker travel insurance after an event is a known event, the cover on your policy may be affected. You should check for any Travel Alerts that may have been issued for your overseas travel destination as well as information on the official government Smartraveller website so you know where you stand with regards to the cover that you will have on your international travel insurance policy.

Disappointing holidays

Disappointing holidays

Perhaps the weather was bad, the tourist attractions were too crowded, or your accommodation didn’t live up to the pictures online. Whatever the reason you’re unhappy with how your backpacking trip has shaped up, your travel insurance policy is not intended to compensate you because you didn’t enjoy your time there.

As each individual’s circumstances are different, we will assess each claim on a case-by-case basis and in accordance with your specific circumstances, policy terms and Certificate of Insurance. 

Where Is Your Next Backpacking Destination? 

Whether it’s months of travel through South America, island-hopping across Asia, or a working stop in the UK before moving on to the next country, Fast Cover’s backpacker travel insurance is made to fit the way you travel. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

How do I Choose My Travel Destination 

Enter the country or countries that you're planning on travelling to into the quote box. Alternatively, you can choose one of our regions: South Pacific, Asia, Europe and/or Worldwide. Check the table below to find the appropriate region for your trip. If you're going to be visiting many different countries, or haven't finalised your itinerary, you can also select the region that you want to be covered for.

Region

 Popular Destinations for this region Automatically includes cover for these regions
Worldwide

 North, Central & South America
Hawaii
Africa
Middle East
Antartica		 Australia
New Zealand
South Pacific
Asia
Europe
Europe

 UK
Germany
France
Greece
Spain
Russia		 Australia
New Zealand
South Pacific
Asia
Asia

 Bali
Indonesia
Japan
Cambodia
Malaysia
Philippines
Singapore
Thailand
Vietnam		 Australia
New Zealand
South Pacific
South Pacific

 Fiji
New Zealand
Islands in the South Pacific		 Australia
New Zealand
New Zealand

 New Zealand Australia
Australia

 Thursday Island
Lord Howe Island
Norfolk Island

If you need to add other countries after you've bought your policy, contact us to add it to your policy for you. Depending on the country or countries you want to add, you may not need to pay an extra charge! ^   

Find out more information on how to choose your travel destination, including the countries that we can't provide cover for, in our travel insurance guide on selecting countries or regions for your policy. 

Why Choose Fast Cover for your Backpacking Trip? 

Australian-Based Customer Service

24/7 Emergency Assistance

25 Day Cooling Off Period#

Fast and Simple Claims Process

Chosen by over
501,284
travellers and counting

4.6
From over From over 2,555 reviews reviews†
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4.6
From over From over 2,401 reviews reviews°
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FAQs about Travel insurance for backpackers

Travel insurance for backpackers is designed for travellers taking extended or flexible trips, often across multiple countries, on a budget. It provides cover for unexpected situations that can happen while travelling for long periods like medical emergencies, lost belongings, or trip disruptions. 

With Fast Cover, a backpacker-style policy can help cover: 

  • Overseas Emergency Medical and Hospital Expenses (unlimited for eligible claims) 
  • Trip Cancellation and Disruption Expenses 
  • Luggage and Personal Effects cover 
  • Travel Delay and Additional Transport Expenses 
  • Optional extras such as Adventure Pack, Bicycle Pack, or Motorcycle Pack for more active or adventurous trips 

It’s ideal for young travellers, students, or anyone taking a gap year or extended overseas adventure where plans may change along the way. 

Every claim is reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and will only be paid if it meets the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions in your policy. Always check the PDS carefully so you know exactly what’s included before you travel. 

Travel insurance for backpackers can be suitable for travellers who plan to be away for an extended period and want flexible cover for their adventures. It’s ideal for: 

  • Young travellers or students taking gap years or studying abroad 
  • Solo travellers exploring multiple countries on a budget 
  • Couples or friends travelling long-term or working overseas temporarily 
  • Adventure seekers planning activities such as hiking, diving, or motorbiking (optional activity packs may be required) 

This type of policy is designed to cover long, spontaneous, or multi-destination trips, giving you peace of mind for the essentials like medical care, cancellations, and lost belongings. 

Every claim is reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and will only be paid if it meets the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions in your policy. Always check the PDS carefully so you know exactly what’s included before you travel. 

With Fast Cover, your travel insurance for backpackers (Single trip policy) can typically cover you for up to 24 months of continuous travel. 

Add-on packs such as the Adventure Pack, Bicycle Pack, and Motorcycle Pack may be purchased while you’re already travelling, provided that: 

  • You have not yet started the activity the add-on pack covers, and 
  • You do not intend to make a claim for an event that has already occurred. 

Once the additional premium is paid and the add-on is added to your policy, cover will only apply from the time the add-on is included and not for any past events or activities. 

If you are purchasing an already overseas policy with add-on included the policy along with add on packs added will starts 48 hours after the policy purchase.  

Every claim is reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and will only be paid if it meets the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions in your policy. Always check the PDS carefully so you know exactly what’s included before you travel. 

Travel plans don’t always go the way we expect! If your trip details change, just get in touch with Fast Cover as soon as possible so we can update your policy. If your policy isn’t updated to match your new travel arrangements, you might not be covered for your revised trip. 

You can usually update things like: 

  • Your travel dates 
  • Your destination 
  • Adding extra cover (e.g. Adventure Pack, Motorcycle Pack, Rental Vehicle Insurance Excess, or Bicycle Pack) 
  • Cover for valuable items 
  • Your Standard Excess 
  • Or even upgrading your policy 

You can reach out to us on 1300 409 322 or send us an email on info@fastcover.com.au 

If your plans have changed and you need to make a claim, simply visit fastcover.com.au/claims for more information and support. 

Every claim is reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and will only be paid if it meets the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions in your policy. Always check the PDS carefully so you know exactly what’s included before you travel. 

Fast Cover offers flexible payment options, including Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) with providers like ZIP and PayPal Pay in 4. Just select your BNPL option at checkout and follow the prompts to complete your purchase. 

Every claim is reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and will only be paid if it meets the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions in your policy. Always check the PDS carefully so you know exactly what’s included before you travel. 

You can buy a Fast Cover travel insurance policy anytime from up to 12 months before your trip right up until the day you depart. We also offer Already Overseas policy with certain terms and conditions.

If you wish to be covered for Trip Cancellation benefit, you may purchase the policy earlier as the benefit starts from the moment you buy your policy (note: this benefit isn’t available under the Basics policy). Not all benefits apply to all policies, so always review the PDS and TMD before deciding to buy.

Every claim is reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and will only be paid if it meets the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions in your policy. Always check the PDS carefully so you know exactly what’s included before you travel.

If you’re an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you don’t need to hold a return ticket for your policy to be valid, but your trip must end in Australia. When buying your policy, you can simply enter the date you plan to return home as your “Return Date.” This sets the length of your cover. Policies can be extended online while overseas, but they cannot be shortened once issued. 

If you’re a temporary resident of Australia, for example, non-Australian citizen or non-permanent resident, you must hold a valid return ticket to Australia at the time of purchase. This is one of the eligibility requirements for purchasing a Fast Cover travel insurance policy. 

Every claim is reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and will only be paid if it meets the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions in your policy. Always check the PDS carefully so you know exactly what’s included before you travel. 

Your travel insurance policy will end on the Return Date you chose when purchasing it. All benefits stop on that date, whether you return home as planned or remain overseas. 

It’s important to keep track of your expiry date while travelling. If you decide to stay overseas longer and wish to still be covered, you’ll need to extend your policy before it expires if you want cover for the additional period. You can do this by logging into your policy online or contacting Fast Cover during business hours, just remember to factor in time zone differences when arranging your extension.  

Please note that if you choose to not extend your cover, cover will not apply to dates that are not listed on your Certificate of Insurance.  

Every claim is reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and will only be paid if it meets the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions in your policy. Always check the PDS carefully so you know exactly what’s included before you travel. 

You can buy travel insurance after booking your flight, as long as it’s before your trip begins. Policies can be issued right up until the day of departure, even just before boarding, provided you meet eligibility criteria and no claimable event has already occurred. 

Keep in mind that some benefits, like Trip Cancellation benefit, are only available if your policy was purchased before the event that caused the cancellation. Waiting too long may limit the benefits available to you. 

Every claim is reviewed individually on a case-by-case basis and will only be paid if it meets the terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions in your policy. Always check the PDS carefully so you know exactly what’s included before you travel. 

The cost of your backpacker insurance depends on what you want to be covered for, and the type of travel insurance that you buy. 

The cost of travel insurance for your backpacker holiday will be based on: 

  • Which countries you’re backpacking in 
  • How long you plan on going back packing for 
  • The activities that you’re planning on doing, like snow sports, adventure sports, cruising or riding a motorcycle, moped or scooter 
  • Your age 
  • If you’ll be driving a rental car and want rental vehicle insurance excess 
  • The excess that you choose 

Yes! If you have left Australia and forgotten to take out backpacker travel insurance, you can buy an Already Overseas policy for your backpacking trip, provided you’ve: 

  • been overseas for less than 14 days, or 
  • been insured under a travel insurance policy (even if it’s with another company) since you left Australia that’s still current or has been expired for no more than 14 days. 

Unfortunately, if you don’t satisfy the above conditions and other conditions that you can find in our PDS or website, you won’t be able to take out an Already Overseas policy. So, to avoid being stuck overseas without cover for your backpacking holiday, do your research early and buy your backpacker travel insurance before you go! 

If you’re planning on going on several small backpacking trips within 12 months, buying our backpackers travel insurance policy can be a cost-effective way to cover yourself. 

The maximum duration for each backpacking trip under a Frequent Traveller Saver policy is 63 days, and you would need to return to Australia after each trip. 

There are a variety of emergency situations you can run into while on a backpacking holiday. 

For example, you might: 

  • Become unexpectedly sick or injured and require a doctor’s consultation, hospitalisation or at worst, 
  • Become a victim of theft and lose that new camera or GoPro you purchased for the trip. 
  • Have to cancel your backpacking holiday completely due to an unexpected sickness, injury or a death in the family. 
  • Injure yourself while overseas  
  • Find yourself stranded at the airport after your flights are unexpectedly delayed due to bad weather or a natural disaster, preventing you from returning home as planned. 

In these types of emergencies, travel insurance may be able to provide cover for related expenses as well as connect you with a 24-hour emergency assistance team. 

The cost of travel insurance for backpackers is incomparable to the thousands of dollars you might otherwise have to pay for emergency hospitalisation expenses, medical evacuation or repatriation, replacing lost or stolen luggage or cancellation costs. 

Backpacker Travel Hub 

Discover travel resources, advice and tips for your next backpacking holiday. 

Backpacking Guide: Backpacker Travel, Health and Safety Tips

Fast Cover’s backpacking guide provides Australian backpackers with key health and safety travel tips for backpacking through Europe, Asia and beyond. ~ 

Europe Travel Guide

Travelling to Europe from Australia? Read Fast Cover's Europe Travel Guide to learn the travel requirements for Europe to help plan and prepare for your trip. ~ 

Entry and Visa Requirements for Australian Citizens

Travelling overseas and not sure if you need a visa? Learn about entry and visa requirements for Australian citizens before you depart to your travel destination. ~ 

How Can We Help, Mate? 

Fast Cover’s Aussie based Emergency Assistance team are available to provide support when you need it, wherever you are, under applicable terms and conditions. ^ 

Overseas 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Emergency Assistance Team: +61 2 8320 7999 

Emergency Consular Services 

Travel Alerts and Advisories

Fast Cover Travel Alerts 

Official Smartraveller Government Website 

Travel Advisories Explained 

Customer Service

Customer Service: +61 2 8215 7239 

9am-5pm AEST Monday - Saturday 

Manage Your Policy

Login to Update Policy Details 

Find a Policy Document 

Make a Claim Online 
Things you need to know

^ Price as at 27/10/2024 compared to the price calculated today for this policy.

* See Product Disclosure Statement for full terms and conditions and exclusions and limits that apply.

^ Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits apply to all policies. See below for full T&Cs. 

† Fast Cover has a referral arrangement with this company. Ratings and awards are only one factor to be considered when deciding whether this product is right for you. Ratings are accurate as at 18/12/25. Check Product Review and Google for current ratings.  

° Ratings are only one factor to be considered when deciding whether this product is right for you. Ratings are accurate as at 18/12/25. Check Google for current ratings.  

# If you change your mind within 25 days of purchasing your policy, you can cancel it for a full refund if you haven’t started your trip, haven’t made or intend to make a claim, used any of your rights under your policy, or used your policy to obtain a visa. After this period, partial refunds may apply as outlined in the PDS. 

~ These are only some of the resources. Please always do your own research to find out more information specific to your needs and situation and to ensure information provided here is correct and current.