Bali remains a popular holiday destination for Australians so the recent flight delays due to volcanic eruptions have hit travellers hard. While flights have started operating again, it is unsure whether the danger from the eruptions of Mount Raung, only 150km from Denpasar airport, has passed. So, if you’re planning on heading to Bali, or have recently returned after a delay, ensuring your travel insurance will cover you for any delays is vital.
By what date did I have to purchase my insurance?
To be covered for delays or flight cancellations resulting from the volcanic ash, you will need to have purchased your travel insurance policy prior to 2 July, although one or two companies are accepting claims on policies purchased up until 3 July.
Am I covered regardless of the policy I have?
You will need to check the cover you have. Basic travel policies only cover medical issues, while comprehensive policies allow claims for delays due to unforseen circumstances. Such policies will also allow expenses for additional accommodation and travel expenses. Remember, insurance companies will only reimburse acceptable expenses incurred, so don’t use it as an excuse to splurge.
What if my policy expires before I can get home?
Travellers who find themselves stranded in Bali after their policy is due to have ended will be covered, as insurance policies are automatically extended free of charge in such circumstances. If you’re unsure, contact your provider before incurring any additional charges.
What about my visa, is it OK to stay longer if I need to?
When entering Bali you are issued with a tourist visa that is valid for 30 days and this should be sufficient to cover minor delays. These tourist visas are only extendable in certain circumstances, but delays resulting from the volcanic ash should be covered. You should consult immigration authorities at the airport if you are unsure.
Should I just cancel?
Before you make any decision about cancelling your holiday, contact your insurer to see if you’re covered should you decide not to travel and what excess you will incur. Again, this will depend on when you purchased your travel insurance.
Can I simply submit a claim? What paperwork do I need?
Before you make a claim or incur expenses, you should:
- Contact your airline and see what it can do for you before you cancel or change flights. Take notes of everything you do and are told. i.e phone calls, emails, conversations with staff and ask your airline for written confirmation of any delays or cancellations.
- Before you incur any costs, contact your insurer to make sure it will cover any additional expenses and ask if there are any limits of which you should be aware. Keep all receipts and if possible pay by credit card, as it will be easier to track your costs.
- Hold on to any boarding passes you have, even ones you don’t use or have reissued.
As with all travel overseas, it’s important to register your plans before you go at Smarttraveller.gov.au