Travel insurance for seniors made simple

Every trip is different. You might be revisiting favourite spots or exploring somewhere new. Wherever you're off to next, it's good to know you've got travel insurance that's built to support you.

Travel insurance for every stage of life

Travel doesn't have an age limit. But as we get older, health and mobility can make things a little less predictable. That's why it's important to choose cover that fits your needs.

Our International Comprehensive plan is designed to support Kiwi travellers of all ages, including those with pre-existing conditions. It offers benefits that matter when you're further along in life, like:

• higher medical limits for overseas travel
• cover for disruptions or delays in circumstances outside of your control
• cover for accidental loss or damage to your personal baggage, up to $30,000 in total, and $2,500 per item (unless specified)
• 24/7 emergency assistance wherever you are.

Common travel hiccups

Travel surprises can happen at any age, but there are a few extra things worth thinking about:

• A flare-up of an existing condition, like arthritis or high blood pressure.
• Slipping on a cruise ship deck or uneven footpaths.
• Misplacing a mobility aid like a walking stick.

Travel insurance that fits your needs can help take the stress out of moments like these.

Pre-existing medical conditions and your cover

A pre-existing medical condition can be any illness, injury, or health issue you already have or had before buying your policy.

Having one doesn't always mean you can't get cover. It simply means your insurer needs to know about it so they can assess and tailor your policy, to confirm whether that condition is included in your policy.

Being upfront helps make sure your cover is accurate if your health changes while you're away.

Are pre-existing medical conditions covered by Tower?

If you're over 70, pre-existing conditions don't have to stop you travelling. They aren't covered under our International Essentials plan or Domestic Cancellation only, but some are automatically covered under our International and Domestic Comprehensive plans.

Cover for pre-existing medical conditions that aren't automatically included may be available for an additional premium following a medical assessment and agreed upon in writing. See below:

Your pre-existing medical condition is automatically covered under our Comprehensive policy if:

• your treatment, including medication, hasn't changed in the 12 months prior to your policy being issued, and
• it's not an ongoing or chronic condition where you've received hospital treatment in the five years prior to your policy being issued, and
• you haven't had surgery or hospital treatment for the medical condition in the 12 months prior to your policy being issued, and
• the condition isn't detailed in the lists below ('Conditions that could be covered following a medical assessment with written approval and an additional premium' and 'Medical conditions that can't be covered include, but are not limited to, any medical condition').

You're not automatically covered in respect of a medical condition if the condition relates to:

• your brain
• a transplanted organ including stem cell transplants
• renal failure
• thinning of the bones (Osteoporosis)
• a lung condition (excluding asthma), due to which you are permanently limited by shortness of breath or diagnosed as cystic fibrosis
• cancer
• an aneurysm, blood or lung clots (including stroke/TIA)
• insulin dependent diabetes
• major allergic reactions
• back problems if you have had spinal surgery
• surgery involving any joints
• mental illness
• sexually transmitted disease AIDS, HIV or related conditions.

Comprehensive plan pre-existing medical conditions that are not covered:

Some medical conditions cannot be covered. These include but are not limited to any condition arising directing or indirectly from any signs or symptoms you've had or for which you haven't sought a medical opinion or received a diagnosis, or you are under medical care or awaiting investigations.

General exclusions include travelling against the advice of a Registered Medical Practitioner and travelling with the intention to receive medical treatment.

If you're unsure whether your condition is covered, call us on 0800 100 124 and we'll help.

Travel insurance for travellers over 65

As you move through your sixties, seventies and beyond, your travel needs can change. Some insurers cap age or limit medical cover, so if you're over 65 it's worth checking for any limits before you book. Not all policies are created equal.

The good news? We don't have an age limit. Whatever your age, our travel insurance is here to help you travel confidently.

Even if you're over 75, you can still get cover that supports your lifestyle and your next great adventure. Premiums may increase with age, but you can choose the level of cover that works for you.

What's the best travel insurance for travellers over 70?

When you're choosing travel insurance, it's not just about the price. Look for policies that offer:

• strong medical cover for peace of mind
• no age limits
• 24/7 emergency support wherever you are
• cover for cancellations, cruises, and longer trips
• options to include pre-existing conditions
• luggage cover
• cover for delays or disruptions outside your control.

Is travel insurance for seniors worthwhile if you're over 75?

You may wonder if travel insurance is worth it, especially when premiums rise with age. Medical care overseas can be expensive and unexpected cancellations can happen, so having cover can make a difference.

Our policies are clear and easy to understand, with 24/7 emergency assistance. That means you can feel confident your cover is designed to support you if the unexpected happens.

How to buy travel insurance with Tower

Whether you're heading on a cruise, local getaway or family reunion, getting travel insurance is straightforward:

• Get a quote online and enter your travel dates and destination. Or if you prefer to speak to someone, call us on 0800 606 688.
• Disclose medical conditions, so your cover is accurate.
• Compare your options. Our Comprehensive plan offers the highest level of cover.
• Review the inclusions and exclusions.
• Buy your policy and enjoy the countdown to your departure.

What you'll need to get a quote

To make things quick and easy, have these details handy:

• Your travel dates.
• Destinations, including any stopovers.
• Your medical history and prescriptions.

Tips to get the most value from your travel insurance

A little prep goes a long way when it comes to making the most of your cover. It's important you:

• declare any health changes before you travel
• keep a copy of your insurance policy handy, printed or digitally
• know how to make a claim using our online form
• save our 24/7 emergency assistance number in your phone: 09 486 6868. Reverse charges are accepted.

Check out more tips for buying travel insurance.

Ready for your next adventure?

Travel later in life should feel exciting, not stressful. That's why we keep things simple.

With no age limits, clear cover options for pre-existing conditions, and round-the-clock support, our travel insurance is here to help if the unexpected happens.

Get a quote for Tower travel insurance online today and be future ready for your trip.

Disclaimer:

Tower Travel insurance is issued and managed by AWP Services New Zealand Limited trading as Allianz Partners and underwritten by Tower Limited. You should read the policy wording before making any decisions about your insurance policy.