Australians under 30 are leading the way in adventurous travel, but new research reveals many are missing key steps to protect themselves from financial and health risks abroad.
A survey commissioned by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) shows younger travellers aged 18-29 are more likely to travel uninsured, engage in risky behaviours and overlook critical travel advice.
Key findings from the research include:
- 23% of young travellers went overseas without any travel insurance.
- While 83% of all travellers were aware of methanol poisoning, 30% of young travellers who drank alcohol on their trip consumed drinks with unfamiliar labels.
- 43% of young travellers visited a destination they perceived to be risky, while 5% travelled to a destination they would describe as very risky.
- 64% of young travellers were aware of the Smartraveller website, but only 37% reviewed destination-specific travel advice before their last trip.
- Despite being more likely to travel to a Level 3 or Level 4 destination, 58% of young travellers were not aware they may not be covered by travel insurance if travelling to these destinations.
The survey also shows that 45% of all Australian travellers were willing to take risks in pursuit of unique or memorable experiences, with 50% of those under 30 saying they had seen risky destinations promoted in a positive way by influencers or in the media.
Quotes attributable to the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Hon Matt Thistlethwaite MP:
"While the thrill of adventure and off-the-beaten-path travel is appealing, we're urging Aussies to take official travel advice seriously and always travel with insurance.
"It's encouraging to see that 88% of travellers who were aware of Smartraveller said its advice influenced their choice of destination, while 83% said Smartraveller advice influenced their insurance decisions.
"All Australians should visit Smartraveller before your next trip for advice on travel insurance and subscribe to your destination's travel advice for free email updates."