Ideal travel insurance coverage for a trip to Fiji
Holidaying in Fiji: Your Ultimate Guide to Affordable and Safe Travel
Fiji, with its breathtaking natural beauty and proximity to Australia, makes it a favorite destination for Aussies seeking a vacation. Whether you're planning to hop on a ferry to the islands after flying into Nadi, or heading to Suva or the eastern regions from Nausori, there's one crucial step you shouldn't forget: arranging travel insurance.
We've delved into the details of over 65 travel insurance policies, doing the heavy lifting so you don't have to. Here's what you need to know about finding the best insurance for your adventures in Fiji.
Do You Need Travel Insurance for Fiji?
Absolutely! Travel insurance is a must-have for Australians vacationing in Fiji. Depending on the cover you choose, it can help cover medical expenses in case of illness or injuries, medical repatriation to Australia, lost luggage, cancellation costs, and alternative accommodation in the event of travel disruptions.
Medical Cover
Fiji's medical facilities are generally less sophisticated than those in Australia, with many hospitals providing basic care. To admit patients, hospitals often require a payment guarantee, proof of medical insurance, or an upfront deposit. In case of serious accidents or illnesses, you may need to be transferred back to Australia, making medical repatriation essential.
If you have a pre-existing condition, it's vital to thoroughly read the fine print to understand if you're covered for medical treatment related to the condition while in Fiji. Some insurers only cover pre-existing conditions for an additional fee and upon successfully passing a medical assessment.
Natural Disaster Cover in Fiji
Fiji is prone to severe weather conditions and natural disasters like cyclones, flooding, landslides, earthquakes, and tsunamis. Cyclone season is typically between November and April, but they can occur at other times. Flooding is common, particularly around Nadi and the Coral Coast. Keep a close eye on the Fiji Meteorological Service for relevant updates. Earthquakes can also occur in Fiji, which may be followed by tsunamis. In the event of a tremor or unusual changes from the sea, Smart Traveller advises moving to higher ground immediately and following local media and authorities' advice.
When buying insurance, do a 'find' (Ctrl F on PC or Command F on Macs) on your PDF and search for 'natural disaster' to determine if the policy covers or excludes such incidents. Don't rely on AI tools like ChatGPT for this task.
Will Travel Insurance Cover Scuba Diving in Fiji?
Most insurers will cover scuba diving under certain conditions, such as diving to a specific depth with appropriate qualifications or under the supervision of a certified instructor.
Before purchasing insurance for a diving holiday, ensure it will cover the specific dives you plan to do by carefully reading the policy document or contacting the insurer. You might also consider specialized diving insurance from organizations like the Divers Alert Network that may cover activities usually excluded from standard travel insurance policies.
Fiji has two decompression chambers, located in Suva and Nadi.
Checklist for Your Fiji Holiday
- Ensure your passport is still valid. If it expires during your trip, renew it online. Aussies don't need a visa to enter Fiji, as long as they stay less than four months.
- Keep a printout of your travel insurance details with you at all times during your trip. Sharing your insurance details with family or friends before you leave is also a good idea.
- Stay informed about the latest travel advice for Fiji.
How Much Does Travel Insurance for Fiji Cost?
The cost of travel insurance for a family of four with adults aged under 55 years for an eight-day holiday in Fiji is approximately $160. Single individuals under 55 will pay around $85, and a couple under the same age bracket will pay approximately $155. A couple over the age of 55 can expect to pay around $290. Several factors, including the length of your trip, the level of coverage you choose, your age, when you purchase your policy, and your excess, affect the overall cost of your travel insurance policy.
These estimates are based on analyzed quotes for eight-day holidays.
The Cheapest Travel Insurance for Fiji
While the policies listed below might be affordable, consider that they may not cover everything you require.
- AHM Medical Only
- Provides medical cover only
- Tick Travel Insurance Basic
- Offers unlimited medical cover but does not provide coverage for cancellation
- Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) Medical Only
- Medical cover only
- Insureandgo Bare Essentials
- Unlimited medical cover but no coverage for cancellation
While these policies offer basic cover, sometimes spending a little more can secure coverage that will save you money in the long run.
For the policies that offer the best value for money, log in or join CHOICE to discover the top picks from our experts. Note that medical-only policies provide medical cover and cover for medical repatriation. They do not provide coverage for things like cancellation costs, lost baggage, or missed connections.
Best Value Travel Insurance Policies for Fiji
Exclusively for CHOICE members, we've listed the best value travel insurance policies for trips to Fiji. These policies include unlimited coverage for medical care and cover for scuba diving up to at least 12 meters with the appropriate qualifications.
For more specific recommendations and details regarding scuba diving insurance in Fiji, see our enrichment data below.
Making the right choice for your travel insurance is crucial when holidaying in Fiji. Given the potential for natural disasters and the importance of medical coverage, ensure your policy includes comprehensive coverage for natural disasters and scuba diving, if applicable. For instance, you might consider specialized diving insurance from organizations like the Divers Alert Network for added peace of mind. When comparing policies, be cautious about the cheapest options and instead, prioritize choosing a policy that offers the best value for your lifestyle and travel plans.
