Planning your next adventure? Whether you’re exploring distant shores or enjoying a domestic getaway, RACV travel insurance offers protection against unexpected travel mishaps. As an established Australian insurance provider, RACV offers various coverage options to suit different travel needs. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about RACV travel insurance, from making claims to understanding coverage for pre-existing conditions.
How to Make a Claim on Your RACV Travel Insurance: Step-by-Step Guide & Tips
Making a claim on your RACV travel insurance doesn’t need to be complicated. Following these steps will help ensure a smoother process during what can already be a stressful situation.
Step 1: Document Everything
Before submitting your claim, gather all relevant documentation:
- Police reports (for theft or loss)
- Medical records and receipts
- Flight cancellation or delay confirmations
- Receipts for additional expenses incurred
- Photos of damaged items
- Boarding passes and travel itineraries
Taking photographs of important documents before traveling can save you significant hassle if originals are lost.
Step 2: Contact RACV Immediately
Don’t delay notifying RACV about your claim. Contact them as soon as possible through:
- The RACV travel insurance app
- Online claims portal
- Emergency assistance phone line (available 24/7)
Quick notification not only speeds up processing but may be required under your policy terms.
Step 3: Complete the Claims Form
Fill out the RACV travel insurance claim form thoroughly, providing:
- Your policy number
- Detailed description of the incident
- List of all items/costs you’re claiming
- Supporting documentation
Step 4: Follow Up
After submission, note your claim reference number and follow up regularly if needed. RACV typically processes straightforward claims within 10-15 business days.
Pro Tips for Successful Claims:
- Keep digital copies of all documents in cloud storage
- Submit claims within the required timeframe (usually 30 days)
- Be honest and accurate with all information
- Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
RACV Travel Insurance for Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: What You MUST Know
Understanding how RACV travel insurance handles pre-existing medical conditions is essential for ensuring appropriate coverage during your travels.
Disclosure Requirements
RACV comprehensive travel insurance requires full disclosure of pre-existing conditions during the application process. Non-disclosure could result in claim denials when you need coverage most.
Automatically Covered Conditions
Some minor and stable conditions may receive automatic coverage, including:
- Controlled asthma
- Well-managed diabetes (diagnosed over 12 months ago)
- Certain allergies
- Controlled high blood pressure
Assessment Process
For conditions not automatically covered, RACV offers a medical assessment process that may result in:
- Full coverage (possibly with an additional premium)
- Coverage with specific exclusions
- Denial of coverage for condition-related claims
Remember that pregnancy typically has specific coverage limitations, generally covering complications up to 26-28 weeks.
Does RACV Travel Insurance Cover COVID-19? [2025 Update]
COVID-19 coverage has become essential for travelers, and RACV travel insurance has adapted its policies to address pandemic-related concerns.
Current Coverage Provisions
As of May 2025, RACV travel insurance includes:
- Medical expenses if you contract COVID-19 while traveling (excluding countries with active travel warnings)
- Trip cancellation if you contract COVID-19 before departure
- Additional accommodation expenses if quarantine is required while traveling
What’s Not Covered
Be aware that RACV travel insurance generally doesn’t cover:
- Cancellation due to government travel restrictions
- Cancellation because you’re worried about traveling during a pandemic
- Countries with “Do Not Travel” advisories due to COVID-19
For the most current COVID-19 coverage details, always check RACV’s website or speak directly with a representative.
RACV Annual Multi-Trip vs. Single Trip: Which is Right For You?
Choosing between RACV’s annual multi-trip and single trip insurance requires evaluating your travel patterns and needs.
Cost Comparison
| Travel Frequency | Better Option | Approximate Savings |
|------------------|-------------------|---------------------|
| 1 trip/year | Single Trip | $0 |
| 2-3 trips/year | Annual Multi-Trip | 15-25% |
| 4+ trips/year | Annual Multi-Trip | 30-50% |
Annual multi-trip insurance becomes cost-effective once you take more than two trips per year. The RACV comprehensive travel insurance multi-trip option covers unlimited trips within a 12-month period, with each trip limited to a maximum duration (typically 30-45 days).
Convenience Factor
With annual coverage, you eliminate the need to purchase insurance before each trip—perfect for spontaneous travelers or business professionals who travel frequently.
Top 10 FAQs About RACV Travel Insurance Answered
1. How far in advance should I purchase RACV travel insurance?
Purchase as soon as you book your trip to benefit from pre-departure coverage like cancellation protection.
2. Does RACV travel insurance cover rental car excess?
Yes, most RACV comprehensive travel insurance policies include rental vehicle excess coverage, often up to $5,000.
3. Are adventure activities covered under standard RACV policies?
Some activities are covered standard, while others (like skydiving or scuba diving) may require additional coverage.
4. What’s the maximum age for RACV travel insurance coverage?
RACV typically offers coverage for travelers up to age 99, though premiums and conditions vary by age bracket.
5. How does RACV handle electronic device claims?
High-value items like laptops and cameras may have per-item limits unless specifically listed and covered with an additional premium.
6. Is domestic travel covered under RACV policies?
Yes, RACV offers specific domestic travel insurance options with appropriate coverage for Australian travel.
7. What happens if I extend my trip while traveling?
Contact RACV to extend your coverage period before your current policy expires.
8. Does RACV cover cruise travel?
Cruises require specific coverage options, as standard policies may not cover medical treatments at sea.
9. How does RACV handle group travel insurance?
Group discounts may apply for families or travel parties, with children under 21 sometimes covered at no additional cost.
10. Can I cancel my RACV travel insurance policy?
Yes, RACV typically offers a cooling-off period (14-21 days) during which you can cancel for a full refund if you haven’t started your trip or made any claims.
Final Thoughts
RACV travel insurance provides comprehensive coverage options for a variety of traveler needs. Whether you’re concerned about pre-existing conditions, COVID-19 protection, or simply want to understand the claims process better, RACV offers policies designed to give you peace of mind during your travels. Always read your policy document carefully and consider your specific travel plans when selecting coverage to ensure you’re properly protected on your next adventure.
Remember that travel insurance is an investment in your journey’s security—the right RACV travel insurance policy can make all the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major financial setback while traveling.
