Indonesia claims soar as popularity rises 
 

02/04/2025 - Media Release

Indonesia continues to reign supreme as Australia’s top travel destination, says 1Cover Travel Insurance.

According to the insurer, Indonesia was Australia’s top travel spot in 2024, with policy sales to the region rising by 25% compared to the previous year. Demand for the destination hotspot also surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 50%.

Indonesia, and particularly Bali, continues to top the list as the most claimed for destination. In 2024, claims to the region rose by 40% compared to the previous year, with illness and injury being the primary causes.

This data aligns with DFAT’s most recent State of Play report, revealing Indonesia to be the second highest country for Aussies seeking help overseas.
Indonesia accounted for three of 1Cover’s priciest claims in 2024, including a hefty $287,544 bill after a traveller fell seriously ill in Lombok, requiring intubation and an air evacuation.

Natalie Ball, Chief Operating Officer for 1Cover Travel Insurance, says, “Indonesia, and Bali, specifically, remains a top Aussie favourite thanks to its affordability. But despite the low cost of travel, the cost of a medical incident in Indonesia can be staggeringly high. Common issues like Bali belly and the high frequency of traffic accidents on Bali’s roads, mean that Aussies are often likely to require medical help while enjoying their getaway."

Bali, Indonesia experiences travel explosion 

According to 1Cover Travel Insurance, travel to Indonesia surged in 2024, with sales surpassing pre-pandemic figures by 50%. The spike in demand reflected recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which showed Indonesia to be the most popular destination for Aussie travellers in 2024 with a record-breaking 1.67 million visitors.

“We’ve seen a marked interest in travel to Indonesia’s smaller islands as travellers seek authentic, affordable experiences,” says Ball. “However, claims have skyrocketed, along with cases of gastro, falls, and scooter accidents.” says Ball.  “We also saw a troubling spike in dengue fever, especially in parts of Bali.”

“It’s crucial for travellers to remember that remote islands may not have adequate medical facilities requiring air transfers, and hospitals in Bali and throughout Indonesia may refuse treatment without proof of coverage, so make sure you double-check you have sufficient travel insurance before you go.”

Additionally, the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki on Thursday drew focus to Bali’s travel risks, with flights in and out of Bali cancelled. This follows similar disruptions in November 2024, when the same volcano erupted leading to widespread flight cancellations.

"Volcanic eruptions have long been a cause of trip disruptions in Indonesia," said Ball. "Many customers have been left stranded and out-of-pocket due to mass flight cancellations and we strongly urge travellers to secure comprehensive travel insurance in advance to protect against unexpected travel events."

In conclusion, Ball emphasises that careful planning and proactive travel insurance are essential for a smooth trip.

“Insurers often see a spike in sales once an event hits the media and of course by then it's too late.  Advanced planning provides the peace of mind so that you can relax on your holiday”.

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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Natali Mansberg, Content Marketing Specialist.
E: natali.mansberg@1cover.com.au | URL www.1Cover.com.au

About 1Cover Travel Insurance
1Cover Travel Insurance was founded in 2003. Today, it is one of Australia’s largest providers of online travel insurance. At 1Cover, we’re dedicated to providing all customers with exceptional cover and support. We provide cover to more than 1.5 million customers in both Australia and NZ.