The Rookie Travel Insurance Mistake That Nearly Ruined My New Zealand Trip
By Jess Chrimes – 20+ years planning ocean-loving escapes
Picture This: The Holiday That Went Sideways
It’s New Year’s Day. The sun is shining. The house is buzzing with family and friends laughing, nursing hangovers, and fighting over who gets the last of the leftover lamb in a toasty. There’s even a spirited debate about who invented Pavlova (spoiler: it’s the Aussies).
Even though New Year’s isn’t usually your thing, you’re loving it – time with people you love in New Zealand, celebrating the holiday season with your in-laws.
Except… you’re stuck in bed. Half your face feels like it might explode. You’ve got the sinus infection from hell and strep throat. The timing? Impeccably dreadful.
When Plans Fall Apart
Suddenly, all those plans for the next few days – hiking Cathedral Cove, digging for thermal water at Hot Water Beach – are going down the tubes. Worse still? They’re going ahead… without you.
And in four days, you’re meant to fly back to Melbourne. Right now, you can’t even walk to the front door, let alone haul yourself (plus three kids and five suitcases of Lego Christmas presents – thanks, Nana & Poppa) onto a 3.5-hour flight.
This is a sad but true story. After months of planning a huge family reunion trip, the first half was pure magic… and then this happened.
And here’s the kicker: I took my whole family to New Zealand without travel insurance. Me – a travel agent of 20+ years.
It’s a mistake that still makes me break out in a cold sweat every time I think about it.
The Mistake That Could Have Cost Everything
Skipping travel insurance was more than just a rookie oversight – it was risky.
If I’d purchased a policy when I booked the trip, we would have been covered from day one. Instead, I spent days stressed about logistics, wondering how we’d get home, instead of focusing on getting better.
The good news? A round of heavy-duty antibiotics, a few comfort hacks, and a very patient partner later, we made it home – barely.
What I Learned (So You Don’t Have To)
Travel insurance isn’t optional. It’s not a “maybe next time.” It’s a must-have – part of your trip budget, just like flights or accommodation.
Here’s what I wish I’d done:
Buy insurance the day you book – coverage starts immediately.
Include everyone traveling – kids, partners, grandparents.
Check what’s covered – medical, cancellations, and activities (diving, hiking, etc.).
Had I done this, the whole ordeal would’ve been a lot less stressful – and I wouldn’t have risked our entire trip over something so avoidable.
Don’t Make My Mistake
Every holiday comes with unknowns – illness, delays, cancellations. Travel insurance isn’t just about covering costs; it’s about peace of mind so you can enjoy the trip you’ve worked so hard to plan.
Get Covered Before You Travel
If you’re planning a trip – whether it’s diving in Bali, kayaking in New Zealand, or joining one of our Group Adventures – don’t leave insurance as an afterthought.
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Let’s make sure your next holiday is covered from the start.