westpac credit card overseas travel insurance

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Top Credit Cards for Frequent Travelers

Credit cards offer various incentives to their customers in a bid to keep them loyal. This article brings to your knowledge the best credit cards currently available for a frequent traveler. If you are a frequent traveler or intend to travel often your best choice is the credit card that offers travel rewards.

Travel rewards credit cards use points or miles to determine rewards. You may earn one point/one mile for every dollar that you spend at the beginning level. The amount you earn and why you earn that much depends on the credit card program you enrolled in. You can redeem the points you accumulate for air travel, hotel stay, meal vouchers at restaurants, shopping vouchers and even discounts on cruises. Below are the top credit cards for frequent travelers based on what they give back to their customers:

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Sign up Bonus

50,000 points

2 points on dining at restaurants worldwide and travel

1 point for each dollar spent on any other purchases

$ 95 waived in the first year

Regular APR

17.99-24.99% variable

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Sign Up Bonus

20,000 miles

10 miles on selected thousands of hotels worldwide

1.25 miles for any other purchase

13.74%-23.74% variable

Wells Fargo Propel American Express Card

30,000 points

3 points for food ordered in or meals eaten out

3 points for transit, rideshares and gas station expenditure

3 points for flight travel, car rentals, hotel and home-stays

1 point for any other purchases

14.49%-26.99% variable

Citi Premier Card

3 points on travel and gas station expenditure

2 points on entertainment and dining out

1 point on all other purchases

16.49%-25.49% variable

Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card

25,000 points

1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases

16.99%-24.99%

American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp Card

10,000 miles

2 miles for each dollar spent on grocery delivery services and stores

2 miles for each dollar spent on American Airlines eligible purchases

1 mile for each dollar spent on any other purchases

17.99%-25.99% variable

The American Express Platinum Card

60,000 points

5 points for flights with American Express Travel or flights directly booked with airlines

5 points on prepaid hotels booked through amextravel.com

Chase Sapphire Reserve

3 points on immediate travel after earning your $ 300 travel credit

3 points for dining at restaurants

1 point per dollar spent on other purchases

17.99%-24.99% variable

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Beginner’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Travel Credit Card

Whether you love traveling for vacations or have a job that keeps you hopping between cities, the right travel credit card can be helpful to maximize the perks. The problem is that there are so many travel credit cards on the market, and they aren’t all right for everyone. If you’re new to the world of travel credit cards, you might wonder which is actually best for you. Fortunately, it’s possible to figure it out. Here’s a quick beginner’s guide on how to choose the best travel credit card.

Who Needs a Travel Credit Card?

Technically, no one “needs” a travel credit card. However, if you’re looking for the right type of credit card for you, there are situations where they might be a good fit.

Generally, you should look into travel credit cards for beginners if one of two situations applies. If you:

• Already travel extensively for work or pleasure, a travel credit card could be beneficial. 
• Enjoy traveling but often can’t afford it outright; going with one of the best travel credit cards around could make it more accessible.

The reason travel credit cards are great fits in those situations is that the perks tend to focus on travel-related services, amenities, and protections. In some cases, they improve the traveling experience, making them a solid choice for those frequently bouncing between cities. In others, they offer pathways for free or discounted travel, improving affordability.

What to Consider Before Applying

As with any credit card, it’s wise to examine a few key points before considering completing an application. 

Often, you’ll want to start with the fundamentals. Regardless of any travel perks, interest rates and annual fees are a critical part of the equation. If they’re too high, you’ll offset any benefits you get from using the card. Fortunately, you can find out about any annual fees and interest rate ranges before you complete an application, allowing you to assess that factor early in the process.

Additionally, some options have harder-to-access perks. Usually, the best travel credit cards for beginners make accessing cashback or spending points simple and intuitive. If there are too many restrictions – like blackout dates – or high booking fees, you’re losing potential value.

Finally, it’s critical to remember that opening a new credit card impacts your credit report and score . In some cases, it’s for the better. However, it can also be for the worse, mainly because it lowers your average account age, increases your total number of open accounts, and results in a hard inquiry.

Travel Credit Card Perks

The world of travel credit cards is vast, and each issuer controls the perks it offers. As a result, each option will have different benefits and drawbacks. However, by understanding what kinds of travel credit card perks are available, you’ll have an easier time finding a potential match. Some of the most common travel credit card perks are:

• No foreign transaction fees . While you may still end up with unfavorable exchange rates, the lack of a foreign transaction fee keeps the total cost a bit lower.
• TSA pre-check/global entry . This is another benefit you might get with some of the best travel credit cards. That can speed up your airport experience, making flying far less stressful. Plus, you might get access to free trip insurance, allowing you to recoup spent funds if the unexpected happens and you need to cancel or reschedule.
• Airline-specific rewards : With airline credit cards, you often get airline-specific rewards, too. That can include access to lounges, free checked bags, no-cost seat upgrades, and early boarding. Plus, it may decrease your odds of getting bumped if a flight is overbooked.
• Cashback : With cashback travel credit cards, you may earn general cashback that reduces your balance owed. The percentage may be flat, applying to all purchase types, or variable, with certain spending categories leading to more cashback.
• Points : With points-based travel credit cards for beginners, the accrual is also based on spending activity. Some cards offer a set number of points per dollar, while others provide higher accrual rates in specific spending categories. Once you acquire enough points, you can cash them in for travel-related products or services. That could include airline tickets, rental cars, free checked bags, seat upgrades, luggage, and more, depending on the program.

Using Travel Credit Cards Wisely

One issue with travel credit cards – and rewards credit cards, in general – is that they may encourage you to use the card more often than you otherwise would. Usually, any travel perks are offset if you carry a higher balance, causing you to spend more than if you just paid for your travel outright.

As with all credit cards, you get the most out of the best travel credit cards for beginners if you pay the debt in full every month. That way, you get access to all of the perks without paying any interest.

Additionally, you need to use the credit card to make certain purchases to access various perks. For example, if your card offers free checked bags or travel insurance, you usually have to purchase airline tickets using the credit card. Otherwise, you won’t get the associated benefit.

Knowing how you tap into the perks allows you to make wiser choices about using the travel credit card. Then, by ensuring you don’t carry a balance, you get all the benefits without the pain of paying interest.

Popular Travel Credit Cards

While each person may have different needs for a travel credit card, exploring some of the most popular travel credit cards for beginners isn’t a bad idea. It lets you learn more about what’s available, making it easier to find an option that works for you.

Here is a list of some of the most popular travel credit cards:

• Capital One Venture
• Chase Sapphire Preferred
• Chase Freedom Unlimited
• Bank of America Travel Rewards
• American Express Platinum
• Discover It Miles
• Chase Sapphire Reserve
• US Bank Altitude Connect

If you mainly travel by air and prefer a specific airline, exploring that airline’s credit card is also wise. Here are just some of the available options:

• JetBlue Plus
• Delta SkyMiles Gold AMEX
• Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select
• Southwest Rapid Rewards
• Alaska Airlines Visa Signature
• United Quest

Just make sure you review the annual fees, interest rates, and available perks. That way, you can genuinely find the best travel credit card for you.

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Travelling overseas checklist

Let us know when and where you are going.

Always let us know when you’re travelling overseas and intend to use your credit card . We'll record your travel details and monitor the security of your credit cards while you're away.

You can call us on:

• 1300 651 089  (within Australia)
• +61 2 9155 7700  (from overseas)
• Black cardholders can call 1300 651 999 or +61 2 9155 7711  (from overseas).  

Keeping transactions safe and secure

Westpac  credit cards  are protected by CardShield™, which includes fraud detection, Online Protection and CHIP security features. Where possible, use a PIN instead of your signature to verify credit card purchases.

Our  Westpac Added Online Security Service  also protects you when you’re shopping online with participating online retailers. Make sure you keep your mobile phone number and email address up to date.

Save on fees with our Global ATM Network

You can use your credit card to make purchases or withdraw cash at ATMs while you are overseas.

There’s nothing like the Global ATM Alliance to keep you going. If you need to take out cash from your credit card account (known as a cash advance) whilst overseas, you will pay no ATM withdrawal fees at Westpac’s Global ATM Alliance partners, including Barclays, Deutsche, Bank of America and more. And just like at home, you can use the Westpac mobile banking app ATM locator to find the nearest Global Alliance ATM to where you are – you can even track it down before you leave home. Other fees and charges apply to cash advance transactions, please refer to westpac.com.au/creditcards for fee details.

Be aware though that the following fees and charges are charged when withdrawing cash from ATMs overseas:

• Westpac will charge a $5 fee when you withdraw money from ATMs not part of our Global ATM Alliance. However, checking your account balance is free and account balances will be displayed in local currency.
• Some overseas banks may apply an additional fee for ATM withdrawals. This should be brought to your attention before you proceed with the transaction and can be avoided by using one of our Global ATM Alliance partner ATMs.
• A Foreign Transaction Fee is payable as a percentage of the Australian dollar value of any Foreign Transaction. The percentage will vary depending on the applicable credit card scheme:
• Visa and Mastercard®: 3.0%

Note: It may not always be clear to you that the Merchant or entity processing the transaction is located outside Australia.

Check your card expiry date

Make sure your credit card isn’t due to expire while you’re overseas. If your card will expire while you’re away, give us a call on  1300 651 089 before you leave.

Check your insurance

You can obtain written confirmation of eligibility for cover for your overseas journey from the issuer of the insurance, AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631, trading as Allianz Global Assistance (AGA), under a binder from the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited, based on the answers you give AGA, by applying online at: checkyourcover.com.au/westpac . If you provide AGA with incorrect answers to the questions we ask you, you may not be eligible for cover under the group policy issued to Westpac. 4

Make sure you know how to contact us in an emergency

For lost or stolen cards:

• +61 2 9155 7700 (24/7)
• Black cards +61 2 9155 7711 (24/7).

Please note that calls made from mobile phones or hotel rooms may attract additional charges.

Going overseas?

Notify us and we can monitor the security of your accounts.

You'll need your  8-digit customer number  and  password .

Westpac Complimentary Credit Card Insurance and COVID-19 (Coronavirus) FAQ

Information for westpac eligible cardholders regarding covid-19.

Information on this page is correct as of  30 June 2022 .

Stay up to date on Travel Information for COVID-19 from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)  Smartraveller  website and  World Health Organisation  (WHO) and  Department of Home Affairs .

Always consult the smartraveller.gov.au website prior to any travel. In addition to visas, COVID-19 testing, and proof of vaccination requirements, many countries now have compulsory insurance and medical cover proof conditions. Check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you are entering. If you require additional documentation regarding the complimentary international travel insurance policy due to international entry requirements, please contact us on 1800 091 710.

From 30 June 2022, if during the period of your cover, you (and your spouse/dependents, if they’re eligible for cover) are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic (such as COVID-19), cover may be available under the following sections:

• 1.1 Overseas Emergency Assistance
• 1.2 Overseas Emergency Medical
• 1.4 Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• 2.1 Cancellation
• 3.1 Additional Expenses

If your travel companion is positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19, which impacts your journey, cover may be available to you under the following sections: 

Note, you won’t be covered while travelling against advice or warnings issued by the Australian government and you did not take reasonable care to avoid contracting the sickness, for example by delaying travel to the country listed in a warning.

The above is a summary only, please refer to  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet  for eligibility criteria, full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions.

A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the select benefits in the applicable policy information booklet  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

To receive a formal outcome, Eligible Westpac Cardholders must submit a claim.

Eligible Westpac travellers who meet the eligibility criteria should be aware that other General Exclusions have the potential to apply.

What is a General Exclusion?

A General Exclusion is an exclusion which will be applied across all sections of an insurance policy, and applies regardless of when eligibility for cover was gained. Should a General Exclusion apply, this means that your complimentary credit card travel insurance excludes cover for the event, activities or circumstances (specified in the exclusion) that causes your claim.

To understand what is excluded from the Westpac Complimentary Insurance covers, please refer to Part D – Excesses & General Exclusions section and the section specific exclusions of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

Other exclusions may apply depending upon the circumstances of an individual claim. General Exclusions include but are not limited to:

• by the Australian government (when a ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ or ‘Do not travel’ alert is in place), which can be found on  www.smartraveller.gov.au ; or
• which was published in a reliable mass media source.
• any interference with your travel plans by any government, government regulation or prohibition or intervention or official authority. For example, if  Smartraveller  has a warning, ‘Do not travel’ or ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ due to the risk of COVID-19 infection for a destination, and a cardholder chooses to ignore the warning and is infected with COVID-19, cover may be excluded. Or if a government closes its borders to inbound travellers due to COVID-19 and you are unable to enter and follow your planned travel across the closed border, cover may be excluded.

What if a Westpac Eligible Cardholder has booked travel and needs to cancel due to contracting COVID-19?

If you are unable to travel as a result of contracting COVID-19, Cancellation cover may be provided to eligible travellers, if you or your travel companion are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic such as COVID-19, and cover is expressly included under the Cancellation section of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . If you are unable to travel as a result of an Epidemic or Pandemic related event which does not include you or your travel companion being positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, for example a border closure, there may be no provision to claim as a general exclusion for epidemic and pandemic applies. A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the cancellation benefits in the applicable policy information booklet. Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

You therefore need to consider your own personal circumstances. We are not able to provide you with a cover decision before submitting a claim. To receive a formal outcome, Westpac Eligible Cardholders must submit a claim.

You should also contact your travel agent or travel service provider (airline, cruise line or Tour Company, etc) as they may be able to support you in obtaining refunds, credits or travel re-scheduling.

Can Westpac Eligible Cardholders make a claim for consideration?

Every Westpac Eligible Cardholder can submit a claim and have their individual circumstances considered in accordance with the eligibility criteria which includes the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply as set out in the  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

If you would like to claim, we encourage you to claim online via  insurance.agaassistance.com.au/westpac

Call the Allianz Global Assistance Claims team

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Westpac credit card complimentary travel insurance

A westpac credit card with travel insurance offers you cover for overseas or interstate trips – here’s how it works..

In this guide

Which Westpac credit cards have complimentary travel insurance?

• What’s covered by Westpac complimentary international travel insurance?
• What do I need to do to use Westpac’s credit card international travel insurance?

Pre-existing medical conditions

How to make a claim through your westpac credit card complimentary international travel insurance policy, other types of westpac complimentary credit card travel insurance, westpac credit card complimentary insurance for shopping, westpac business credit card complimentary insurance options, frequently asked questions.

Westpac offers complimentary travel insurance on its platinum and black credit cards, with policies that cover domestic and international trips. Some Westpac cards also offer complimentary insurance for eligible items you buy.

These insurance policies are underwritten by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited (Allianz). Just like any insurance, there are conditions you need to meet to get cover and make a claim. That's why it's always best to read the policy document. But if you're after a snapshot, we cover some of the key details about Westpac cards that offer cover, the type of cover available and when you'll get it.

Have a question or need to make a claim right now? Call Allianz Global Assistance on 1800 091 710 (Australia) or +61 7 3305 7468 (overseas).

If you don't have a Westpac credit card yet, you can get complimentary travel insurance with a new platinum or black credit card. The length of cover you get depends on the card, as we’ve shown in the table.

What this shows is that Westpac’s complimentary international travel insurance for Altitude Platinum and Black cards is separated into Level 1 and Level 2 categories. The key difference between these levels is the length of cover: you get up to 3 months with an Altitude Platinum card and up to 6 months with an Altitude Black card.

If you have a Westpac business credit card, check the complimentary insurance details here .

Have a Westpac credit card that’s not on this list? Check the terms and conditions available on the Westpac website to see if your card is eligible.

What’s covered by Westpac complimentary international travel insurance?

Westpac’s complimentary international travel insurance includes cover for luggage, cancellation and emergency medical, with some options for COVID-19. The insurance is broken down into “benefits” based on what you can and can’t claim. Some claims also have an excess charge if your claim is approved, which you need to pay before you’ll get any money back.

To help you understand the cover available, we’ve put the key options for different types of claims into tables, with basic examples of when you might use the cover. But remember: you should always read the insurance policy booklet for complete details of the cover.

Medical, dental and emergencies cover with a Westpac credit card

Westpac complimentary international travel insurance for cancellation, delays and transport, luggage and personal items cover offered with westpac credit card complimentary insurance, hijacking, kidnap and personal liability cover offered with westpac complimentary credit card travel insurance, westpac credit card complimentary international travel insurance for death and funerals, westpac complimentary international travel insurance and covid-19.

From 30 June 2022, Westpac’s complimentary international travel insurance includes details of when you can make claims related to COVID-19 and other known pandemics and epidemics. This includes for:

• Overseas emergency assistance
• Overseas emergency medical
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Cancellation
• Additional expenses

To make a claim, you need to be positively diagnosed with COVID-19 (or another pandemic/epidemic disease) and meet all the other requirements for a claim. It also applies if a travel companion is positively diagnosed – but won’t apply if you’re travelling against government advice or if the mass media have published details of advice or warnings against travel.

As there are specific conditions to meet for this type of cover, make sure you read the amended policy booklet or call Allianz on 1800 091 710 before you travel.

What's not covered?

Every insurance policy has details of when you will and won’t get cover. These details can be very specific, which is why it is important to always check your insurance policy documents.

To give you an idea, here are some of the key things you won’t be covered for with Westpac credit card complimentary international travel insurance:

• Any act of war
• Issues that come up because of alcohol or non-prescription drugs
• Travel that’s for the purpose of medical treatment
• If you’re over 81 or anyone relating to a claim is over 81
• Changes to your plans due to regulations, prohibitions or intervention from a government or official body, including if details have been published in the mass media
• If you or your partner gives birth during the trip (except if it’s due to injury or sickness)
• Dangerous activities including rock climbing (with equipment), white water rafting, bungy jumping, off-piste snowboarding or skiing and quad or motorbike riding on a vehicle that has an engine capacity of 200cc or more

Keep in mind that countries and regions around the world currently have different restrictions and guidelines around the coronavirus pandemic. These can change, so it’s worth checking where you can travel before booking anything.

Want cover for COVID-19? Here’s what you need to know . And if you need cover for a skiing trip, bungy jumping or other overseas adventures, check out adventure sport travel insurance costs and conditions.

What do I need to do to use Westpac’s credit card international travel insurance?

To get international travel insurance cover through your Westpac Altitude Platinum or Black credit card, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

• Travel bookings. You need to use your eligible Westpac credit card to pay for at least $500 of your travel expenses before the start of the trip. You also need a return ticket. An easy way to meet these requirements is to use your card to pay for your overseas flights.
• Australian residency. You must live in Australia and start and end your trip in Australia.
• Age. You’ll be covered if you’re under 81 years of age. If you’re over 81 and want overseas travel insurance, there are some policies you can buy that give you cover up to the age of 100 .

Does Westpac credit card travel insurance cover family members?

Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirements for cover on an upcoming trip, your spouse and dependants (i.e. children) can get cover under this policy when they’re travelling with you for at least half of your trip and meet the following requirements:

• They need to live in Australia and start and end their journey in Australia
• They need to have a return travel booking before they leave
• At least $500 of their travel costs need to be paid for with your Westpac credit card before the start of the trip
• They need to be under 81 years of age at the time they become eligible for the insurance
• They also need to meet the same age requirements and other conditions of the insurance policy

This complimentary international travel insurance only covers a few pre-existing medical conditions, with very specific requirements. Here, we’ve summarised the key details for conditions that are covered. If you have any pre-existing condition, you should also look at the insurance document for full details or call Allianz on 1800 091 710.

🔥 Hot tip: The easiest way to find details in the insurance policy booklet is to open your digital copy and use the find tool (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F) to search for the terms (e.g. “Pre-existing medical conditions”).

What if I don’t meet the requirements or have a different pre-existing condition?

If you’re not sure whether your pre-existing medical condition will be covered, call Allianz on 1800 091 710 to check if you can get cover.

You can then apply to have an assessment of the condition over the phone or online at www.checkyourcover.com.au/westpac . The assessment costs $75 over the phone and $45 online. If you’re successful, you’ll get written confirmation from Allianz that your condition is covered.

But if you have pre-existing conditions that aren’t covered, you won’t be able to make a related claim if you've previously seen a doctor or other qualified professional about a condition that ends up causing issues overseas. It's the same for any physical, medical, mental or dental condition that you’re aware of before you travel.

Need cover for a pre-existing health condition? Check out travel insurance policies that offer cover for conditions including high blood pressure, high cholesterol and physical disabilities.

Pre-existing medical condition definition for Westpac credit card insurance

Travel insurance policies all have specific ways of looking at pre-existing medical conditions, so it’s really important you’re aware of the actual definition they use.

As well as the summary above, we have included the definition that’s in the current Westpac card insurance policy document, effective from 27 October 2021 (page 23):

“A condition of which a reasonable person in the circumstances, should have been aware at the time eligibility for the cover available was met, including:

• Any dental condition; or
• Any physical condition; or
• Pregnancy; or
• Any lifelong illness; or
• Any chronic illness; or
• Any mental illness; or
• Any current or previously treated cancer, or

Any condition which, in the last two (2) years:

• Was treated by surgery (including day surgery); or
• Required regular medication; or
• Required on-going treatment; or
• Was referred to a specialist medical adviser; or
• Had regular reviews or check-ups; or
• Caused admission to hospital; or
• Was treated at a hospital emergency department or out-patient clinic”

As soon as you think you’ll need to make a claim, contact Allianz Global Assistance so that they can give you specific information.

You can do this overseas by calling the emergency assistance number on +61 7 3305 7468 or in Australia by calling 1800 091 710. You can also email [email protected] but may have to wait longer for a response.`

There are 2 main ways you can submit your claim:

You will hear back about your claim within 10 business days, according to the online claims website.

What to include in your claim

Aim to include as much detail and supporting documentation as possible. It makes it easier for the insurer to look at the claim and your eligibility for a payout.

So when you're travelling with this cover, try to get as much written or photo evidence as you can for any claim you need to make. This could include the following:

• A referral or letter from a doctor or other professional you see in relation to a claim
• Official medical reports
• Police reports
• Photos of damaged items
• Emails or letters from airlines that relate to a claim
• Receipts or other proof of purchase

When you fill in the online claim form, you’ll also be asked for some key personal details, including part of your Westpac credit card number (to confirm you’re eligible for cover).

Overseas transit accident insurance

• What is it? Cover for accidents that happen when you're travelling overseas on a plane, train, cruise ship, bus or other eligible vehicle. You also get cover for related accidents that happen when you're boarding or leaving the transport.
• When can I use it? If you have paid for the entire trip with your eligible Westpac credit card before you leave. If your partner or dependants are travelling with you for the whole trip, they'll also get cover.
• Is there an excess cost? No, you don't need to pay an excess for any claims but there are limits to how much you can get paid out. For example, the loss of one hand or foot has a maximum benefit of $250,000.

Interstate flight inconvenience insurance

• What is it? Cover for specific issues that come up when you're travelling to a different state or territory in Australia. This can include costs relating to cancelled return flights, flight delays of 4 hours or more, delayed or lost luggage and funeral expenses.
• When can I use it? You’ll get cover for up to 14 days in a row if you have paid for the entire trip with your eligible Westpac credit card. Your spouse and any dependants can also get cover when you have used your Westpac card to pay for their return travel and they will be with you for at least half the trip.
• Is there an excess cost? There is a $300 excess for claims that relate to cancellation or luggage (except for delayed luggage). There are no excess costs for other claims but there are maximum claim amounts, which vary depending on the type of claim.

Rental vehicle excess in Australia insurance

• What is it? Cover for damage or theft of a car or other vehicle you have hired in Australia, up to a maximum of $5,500 (or less if the amount specified in your rental vehicle agreement is lower).
• When can I use it? If you have paid for the vehicle hire with your eligible Westpac credit card and the vehicle hire agreement lists an excess cost.
• Is there an excess cost? There is a $300 excess for each claim you submit.

How to make a claim under one of these policies

Westpac credit cards give you access to other types of insurance, which are also provided by Allianz. Below is a snapshot of the different types.

Purchase protection insurance

• What is it? Cover for the cost of a new item that is stolen, accidentally damaged or lost. It covers most household and personal items such as laptops, shoes, jewellery and glasses. Exclusions include second-hand items, perishables, cash, computer software, vehicles and items you’ve accidentally left in a hotel after checking out.
• When can I use it? If you use your eligible Westpac credit card to pay for covered items, this insurance will apply for the first 4 months from when you get them. This cover is available for personal items bought anywhere in the world, including gifts if the person they are given to is a permanent Australian resident.
• How can I make a claim? You need to show proof that you own the item and report the loss, theft or damage to the local police or relevant authorities (such as the office of a transport company). Ideally, you should get written confirmation of this report. Then, call Allianz on 1800 091 710 or submit your claim through the Allianz online claim portal.
• Is there an excess cost? An excess of $300 per claim applies. There are also maximum claim amounts, which vary depending on the item, with a yearly maximum of $135,000 for all claims.

Extended warranty insurance

• What is it? Cover that doubles the manufacturer's warranty for items bought in Australia, up to a maximum period of 2 years. For example, if you bought a laptop with a 12-month manufacturer's warranty and it stopped working for no reason after 12 months, you could make a claim under this cover.
• When can I use it? If you used your eligible Westpac credit card to pay for an item worth up to $20,000 and it came with an Australian manufacturer’s warranty of between 7 days and 5 years. You can make a claim if something happens after the original warranty period has ended.
• How can I make a claim? Call Allianz on 1800 091 710 or submit your claim through the Allianz online claim portal at https://claims.agaassistance.com.au/ .
• Is there an excess cost? An excess of $300 per claim applies. There are also maximum claim amounts, which vary depending on the item.

Don’t have complimentary insurance on your credit card yet? Compare Westpac credit cards or check out other cards that offer insurance .

All Westpac business credit cards offer complimentary unauthorised transaction insurance to help protect you if an additional cardholder uses the account for something that's not allowed.

You can also get complimentary insurance for travel and shopping depending on the Westpac business credit card you choose. Here’s a look at your options:

Want a credit card for your business? Compare a wide range of cards that offer insurance, rewards and other perks.

Does Westpac credit card international travel insurance cover coronavirus?

Yes, this complimentary international travel insurance does offer some cover related to COVID-19 including overseas emergency medical and cancellation cover. To make a claim, you or a travel companion need to be positively diagnosed as suffering from COVID-19 and not be travelling against official advice or warnings.

This cover also applies for other known pandemics and epidemics. But as claim requirements are very specific, make sure you read the insurance policy booklet for full details.

Finder also has a whole guide covering questions about this pandemic and travel insurance .

Can I get proof of my cover?

Yes. If you’re going on a cruise or tour that requires proof of insurance, you can get a letter of eligibility online by visiting http://www.checkyourcover.com.au/westpac and providing your details. This includes some information about your Westpac credit card to confirm you're eligible for cover.

• Westpac credit cards complimentary insurance policy information booklet effective 27 October 2021 with amendments effective 30 June 2022
• Westpac Business credit cards complimentary insurance policy information booklet effective 27 October 2021 with amendments effective 30 June 2022

Amy Bradney-George

Amy Bradney-George is the senior writer for credit cards at Finder, and editorial lead for Finder Green. She has over 14 years’ experience as a journalist, with a particular focus on personal finance, and has been featured in publications including ABC News, Money Magazine and The Sydney Morning Herald.

More guides on Finder

This 0% interest credit card from Westpac offers a $1,000 limit and a flat monthly fee that can be waived – plus you can use it as soon as you’re approved.

A no-frills card offering up to $350 back when you meet the spend requirement and a 13.74% p.a. interest rate on purchases.

A premium credit card offering up to 120,000 bonus Velocity Points, uncapped rewards points and complimentary insurance covers.

This platinum credit card offers 70,000 bonus Velocity points, uncapped points potential, a discounted first-year annual fee and complimentary insurance covers.

A no-frills card offering a 0% interest on balance transfers for the first 28 months and a 13.74% p.a. interest rate on purchases.

With bonus Qantas Points and a range of complimentary insurance covers, the Westpac Altitude Platinum - Qantas is worth considering if you want more frequent flyer points.

The Westpac Altitude Black Qantas card boasts bonus points, a competitive earn rate as well as travel perks and extra features.

Take advantage of a $0 annual fee for the first year and a 12-month balance transfer with a new Westpac Altitude Business Platinum credit card.

This black rewards credit card is packed with perks including uncapped points per $1 spent, airport lounge passes, complimentary travel insurance and up to 150,000 bonus points offer.

This platinum rewards card comes with up to 120,000 bonus points offer and complimentary insurance for domestic and overseas travel. Is it worth it for you?

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175 Responses

Does westpac zero platinum Mastercard cover you for travel insurance on cruises.

Hi Mary, Some cover may be available if the cruise is a foreign-registered vessel and you meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the policy booklet. You can check your eligibility and cover by calling the insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance on 1800 091 710. Or by visiting https://travel.agaassistance.com.au/westpac/travel-insurance and providing some basic details for your Westpac credit card. I hope this helps.

If westpack credit card insurance cover domestic cruise ?

Hi Jenny, International travel insurance cover may be available when you are on a foreign registered cruise vessel in Australian territorial waters, based on the policy document’s definition of “overseas”. You can also check your cover by contacting the insurance provider, Allianz, on 1800 091 710 or by visiting https://travel.agaassistance.com.au/westpac/travel-insurance . I hope this helps.

Is the complimentary WBC travel insurance applicable if additional card holder travel on their own?

This requirement is not listed in the policy insurance booklet for cardholder’s eligibility for cover.

I hope this helps,

With Westpac’s complimentary insurance, as it is currently provided through Allianz, are you able to add extras (eg. adventure activities, snow, sea or ocean cruising, etc.) onto the complimentary insurance policy for a fee? These sorts of cover/activities are all excluded within the complimentary insurance Policy Information Sheet. I understand this can be achieved with some other big 4 banks complimentary insurance credit card packages. Thanks

Hi Michael,

This isn’t something I am aware of, but for this type of request you would be best to reach out to Allianz directly. You can call its general enquiry line on 1800 091 710.

Hope this helps,

We’re going on a cruise this year. The cruise costs 18K and we have paid 6K by Mastercard Black Altitude to date. Do we need to pay the full amount by card or can we bank transfer the balance?

Hi Terry, You don’t need to pay the full amount on your Westpac Altitude Black credit card, as the requirement is to pay for a minimum of $500 on an eligible card before your trip. So you can choose how to pay for the rest of the trip. Remember to check the other eligibility requirements (and details of pre-existing conditions). If you have any further questions about eligibility or cover, just call the insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance, on 1800 091 710. I hope that helps.

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Travel Activate Credit Card Travel Insurance

Welcome to the Westpac Credit Card travel insurance website. If you have a trip coming up, we invite you to check that your cover is in place.

Each Westpac Credit Card travel insurance policy has eligibility requirements that must be met in order to be covered. You can also purchase optional cover extensions online, such as cover for pre-existing medical conditions or snow sports. You are not required to complete an eligibility questionnaire or to obtain any confirmation of cover documents but knowing you are covered can help give you confidence before you depart.

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The AIG Logo is a registered trademark. Insurance products and services are provided by AIG Insurance New Zealand Limited. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. You should read the Policy Wording and Schedule of Benefits in light of your personal circumstances, prior to making any decision to acquire the product.

Westpac Altitude Black Credit Card

The Westpac Altitude Black Credit Card offers up to 150,000 bonus Westpac Altitude Points. Ongoing benefits include Westpac Altitude Points earned on eligible purchases, complimentary travel insurance, and Priority Pass airport lounge passes.

Updated 9 November 2023

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The Westpac Altitude Black credit card is Westpac's premium Westpac Altitude product. Featuring a relatively high points earn rate which is Westpac's highest and uncapped, the card provides premium features such as insurances. Of the 200+ credit cards reviewed by Stay or Go, this card ranks among the best 25% for earning $100 back in value, such as on a gift card, for an average spend of $5,000 per month. Further, the product has a $295 annual fee, including up to 45 interest free days.

Considering its key features, this card is most suitable to someone who wishes to be rewarded for their spend. Other benefits include Overseas Travel and Medical Insurance which is similar to equivalent products and no additional cardholder fees.

Earn Westpac Altitude Points

1.25 points per $1 spent

$295 annual account fee

$0 rewards fee

No additional cardholder fee

Up to 1 additional cardholder

3.00% international transaction fee

Other fees may apply.

19.99% p.a. variable purchase rate

21.49% p.a. variable cash advance rate

Up to 45 interest free days on purchases

Overseas Travel Insurance

Interstate Flight Inconvenience Insurance

Transit Accident Insurance

Purchase Security Insurance

Price Guarantee Cover

Extended Warranty Insurance

Rental Vehicle Excess in Australia Insurance

2 x Priority Pass airport lounge passes each year

up to 150,000 bonus points

$150 annual fee in first year

Before applying for this product, you should read the Target Market Determination (TMD) available here on the Westpac website.

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According to PDS to qualify (in general terms) you have to have a return overseas travel ticket, and A$500 of your prepaid travel costs have been charged to credit card. On that basis we qualify as our (so far) booked accommodation is in excess of $1,000 (i.e. more than $500 each). However in the definition section under the definition of the word "trip" it reads "overseas passage by the cardholder as a paying passenger..... Provided that before the passage commenced the cost of the passage was charged to the cardholders eligible credit card account .....". The word "journey" is also defined.

Does anyone know is there is a distinction between a journey and a trip? I have been through the PDS a couple of times and while the word trip got a few mentions, it remains unclear. If they mean the same thing then simply paying $500 each on the credit card will not get you free insurance. Does the condition that you have a return overseas travel ticket somehow get caught up with the definition of trip which then means you must also purchase your tickets on your card?

I followed the PDS directive and phoned Zurich. The person said that all I had to do was "buy your plane tickets". Now I know that is not "all" I had to do so I didn't take the matter any further with them.

I believe we will be covered on this occasion. However a major concern I have is what will happen next time if I decide to purchase our seats using points.

Plain English should prevail.

It seems to me that the advice from the Zurich person was pretty accurate. The formal words that you quote say to me, at least, that the travel ("journey") component of your holiday ("trip") must be paid for with the card.

Did you buy your tickets with the card?

>>>However a major concern I have is what will happen next time if I decide to purchase our seats using points<<<

I would agree with Luigi and his interpretation. To be certain I suggest that you email the enquiry to Zurich and get a comprehensive reply in writing.

It is important to understand any other conditons. I have previously used my Amex travel insurance successfully. You may have to pay for any "claimable" expenses on the card. You should also check the $ limits for claims. If these are within your needs fine. Probably you will need to take out stand alone medical cover, but this is much cheaper and more straightforward than comprehensive.

I have just read the PDS. Phew!! It's quite clear that the fundamental requirement is that the "passage", "trip", "journey" or whatever must be paid for with the card. The answer to the final part of your question about tickets traded for points would seem to be that, no, you cannot be covered in that circumstance.

Read the policy. That is the only way to know what (if anything) is covered.

http://www.westpac.com.au/docs/pdf/pb/westpac_credit_card_comp_insurance_policy_after21Oct2012

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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