Ain't No Mountain High Enough!
Fancy two weeks sunning yourself on a beach? How about a fortnight by the pool of a posh hotel complex? Thought not.
If you’re the kind of traveller that finds a lazy beach holiday a little boring, you’re not alone. The number of Australians opting to ditch the lazy beach-side bungalows in favour of exhilarating outdoor hikes is on the climb.
Whether you're planning on strolling through the shadows of mighty peaks or looking for a challenging trek that sees you standing on top of the world, there are endless opportunities for walking, trekking and hiking tours that explore scenic wonders of the world. However, not all climbing, trekking and mountaineering expeditions or destinations are covered by travel insurance. So if you've got a mountain to climb, be sure to pack the right cover.
Trekking and mountaineering hotspot was found to be the fastest-growing travel destination for Australians heading overseas last year. With the Everest Base Camp trek at more than 5,000 metres, it pushes the altitude limits of some insurers. Additionally, even though some insurers cover up to 6,000 metres or have no altitude limit, some exclude Nepal altogether. So if you're headed to Nepal, you'll need to review your options very carefully
Insurers Altitude Limits
Thank heavens for me, the king of travel insurance. I've researched many insurers to make the task of finding cover for high altitude limits easier for you. But pay close attention to conditions as each insurer will have different limitations around abseiling, rock climbing, and mountaineering activities, particularly those that require specialised equipment such as support ropes.
Insurer | Underwriter | Altitude limit | Conditions | Buy Now |
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HDI Global Specialty SE – Australia | 3500m | Covered for hiking & trekking. Excluding trekking in Antarctica, Greenland or North Pole. No cover for use of ropes or climbing equipment. | ||
Certain underwriters at Lloyd's | 3000m | Automatic cover up to 3,000m altitude.
Choose the Adventure Pack option for up to 6,000m altitude and Kokoda expeditions. | ||
Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company Limited | 5000m | Must be available to the general public and conducted with a commercial operator | ||
Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company Limited | 5000m | Trekking up to 3,000m is covered with a standard excess, but if you trek between 3,000 and 5,000m an extra $250 excess is applied on top of the standard excess if you make a claim.
The route must be available to the general public, conducted by a commercial operator, not be considered an extreme risk, and not require special skills or a high level of fitness to undertake | ||
HDI Global Specialty SE – Australia | 3000m | Automatically covers hikes & treks peaking at altitudes up to 3,000 metres where specialist climbing equipment is not required (but not expeditions to or on the Kokoda Track/Trail).
Choose the Adventure Pack option for altitudes between 3,000 and 6,000 metres, the Kokoda Track/Trail or rock climbing with ropes, and appropriate safety gear. | ||
Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Company Limited | 3000m | Automatic cover up to 3,000m altitude. | ||
Allianz Australia Insurance Limited | 6000m | Covered for hiking & trekking up to 6,000m with Adventure pack add on. No cover for use of ropes or climbing equipment. | ||
Chubb Insurance Australia Limited | 3000m | trekking requiring
climbing equipment and/or ascending above 3,000 metres from sea level; | ||
Allianz Australia Insurance Limited | 3000m | Automatic cover up to 3,000m altitude. | ||
Allianz Australia Insurance Limited | 6000m | hiking, trekking or tramping, peaking
at altitudes from 3,000 metres up to
6,000 metres, where specialist climbing
equipment is not required; | ||
Zurich Australian Insurance Limited | 6000m | Trekking (that doesn’t require specialist climbing equipment) that reaches an
altitude between 4,000 metres and 6,000 metres above sea level, if the trek
takes more than 2 days to complete. | ||
Zurich Australian Insurance Limited | 3000m | No cover for mountaineering or rock climbing using ropes. | ||
Zurich Australian Insurance Limited | 6000m | Trekking (that doesn’t require specialist climbing equipment) that reaches an altitude between 4000 metres and 6000 metres above sea level, if the trek takes more than 2 days to complete | ||
Zurich Australian Insurance Limited | 6000m | Trekking (that doesn’t require specialist climbing equipment) that reaches an altitude between 4000 metres and 6000 metres above sea level, if the trek takes more than 2 days to complete | ||
Certain underwriters at Lloyd's | 4000m | Must be conducted by a commercial operator, no cover for use of ropes or climbing equipment. | ||
Certain underwriters at Lloyd's | 4000m | • Trekking/Rambling/Hiking (with a licenced commercial
operator on established/mapped routes and subject to a
maximum height of 4000m) | ||
Chase Underwriting Pty Ltd | 4000m | Includes climbing with ropes, picks or other specialist climbing equipment. There is no cover whatsoever for activities in the Antarctic/Arctic/Nepal. There is no cover for mountaineering, trekking or trad climbing in the USA or Canada. | ||
Guild Insurance Limited | 5000m | Automatic cover up to 5000m altitude. | ||
Southern Cross Benefits Limited | 3000m | No cover for use of ropes, climbing equipment or oxygen. No cover between altitudes of 1,500 and 3,000 metres if you are, or intend to ascend more than 500 metres per day. | ||
Pacific International Insurance | No altitude restrictions | There is no cover for use of ropes or climbing equipment.
Ice/glacier walking (up to 3,000 metres), only when on a guided tour with a licenced tour operator. With snow sports & activity option. | ||
Chase Underwriting Solutions Pty Ltd | 4000m | up to 4,000m – without ropes, picks or other
specialists climbing equipment | ||
Zurich Australian Insurance Limited | 3000m | No cover for use of ropes or climbing equipment or expeditions to or on the Kokoda Track/Trail. | ||
Zurich Australian Insurance Limited | 6000m | Choose the Adventure Pack add-on to include cover for the following.
Trekking hat reaches an altitude between 4000 metres and 6000 metres above sea level (that doesn’t require specialist climbing equipment) that reaches an altitude between 4000 metres and 6000 metres above sea level, if the trek takes more than 2 days to complete.
Outdoor rock climbing (with ropes and/or guides, or bolted) less than 2000 metres above sea level.
Trekking the Kokoda Track | ||
Pacific International Insurance | 6000m | No cover for search and rescue if you get lost in the mountains or at any other time. May need to add on sports and activity cover. | ||
Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co. Ltd | 3000m | Automatic cover up to 3,000m altitude. | ||
Allianz Australia Insurance Limited | 3000m | Automatic cover up to 3,000m altitude. |
What Does Travel Insurance Cover?
A standard travel insurance policy will usually insure you for holidays that go off the beaten track, as well as activities such as abseiling, moderate climbing and scrambling, there are general exclusions you need to pay attention to when going on an adventure holiday.
You’ll Be Covered...
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If you injure yourself when taking part in any of these activities, or become ill, your insurance will cover your helicopter evacuation, medical expenses and repatriation back to Australia if you need it. In many cases, your policy also pays the costs to fly a family member or friend to be with you in hospital and escort you home.
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If severe weather or another unforeseen event occurs (such as a family emergency) and you can no longer go on your trip - any pre-paid tours, travel and accommodation expenses will usually be covered by your insurer.
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For your gear if it gets damaged or is stolen. Remember that all luggage and personal effects benefits have single item limits which could range anywhere from $700- $1500. This includes items like your hiking boots, camping equipment, sleeping bag and Gore-Tex jacket etc.
What Isn't Covered?
Trekking holidays need trekking travel insurance! Make sure you don’t start your trip without appropriate cover.
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Climbing where ropes are required: The majority of Australian travel insurers do not cover for mountaineering, rock climbing, free climbing, canyoning, caving or any leisure activities where the use of support ropes or specialist climbing equipment is required.
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Gear left unattended that was not under your care or supervision when it was stolen.
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Pre-existing medical conditions that exist before you start your hike. For example, previous knee surgery that stops you mid-trek would not be something typically insured.
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Travel warnings already in the mass media: You can’t claim if you didn’t already have travel insurance when the warning was raised. For example, if you hear about an avalanche warning in the mass media and then you decide to buy insurance, you couldn’t cancel your holiday and claim.
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Altitude limit: Some insurers have a limit as to how high you can go.
Where Can I Buy Cover If I Want To Use Ropes?
Insure4Less rock climbing or alpine travel insurance is a good option for independent climbing parties. They cover for trekking with the use of ropes up to a max of 6,500 metres. You are unable to buy a policy if you are already overseas or are over 65 years of age.
World Nomads cover for climbing with the use of ropes – but you must be with a professional, qualified and licenced guide or operator for it to be covered. 6,000 altitude limits apply.
Allianz Australia Insurance Limited new “Adventure Pack” add-ons will cover you up to 6,000 metres altitude where specialist equipment is not required.
(Whilst insurers such as 1Cover, AIG, Budget Direct, Citibank, Cover-more, First For Women, itrek, Virgin Money, TID, SureSave, etc may NOT cover you for climbing when you need to use ropes, they do cover trekking and hiking in general.)
What’s The Difference Between Hiking, Trekking And Mountaineering?
The million-dollar question! Most tour guides will name the trek based on the degree of fitness needed, the amount of walking each day and type of terrain you’ll cover.
Mountaineering generally requires you to use ropes, crampons and other equipment, so these treks require a specialist cover that not all travel insurers cover as standard.
Take A Walk On The Wild Side
Whether it is a gentle stroll in the foothills of Australia's Blue Mountains you are after, or a multi-pitch Leviathan of an ice climb in the Himalayas of Nepal, there's no end of trekking and climbing options at your disposal!
- Veteran climbers may prefer a solo adventure, or to organise an expedition themselves.
- Families will usually opt for a gentler adventure tailored to the needs of younger kids.
- Relative novices benefit from group trips with expert guides who can ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout.
Packing For A Climbing Or Trekking Trip: 101
- Hiking boots: A tough, durable but comfortable set of hiking boots is an absolute must for any trip.
- Sunblock: Do not underestimate how long you could be spending in the sun. Take enough sunblock to cover you for the whole trek.
- Layers: Bring clothing in layers rather than one big coat or jacket. Layers can be easily donned or shed as the temperature changes.
- Road-tested backpack: You and your backpack are going to become well acquainted. Make sure you’ve tested it to make sure it is comfortable first.
- Dry pack: Don’t want your belongings ruined by a freak rainstorm? Invest in a good quality dry pack.
- Flip flops: You’re not going to be hiking all the time, and when you’re not, your feet will be glad of the rest.
- Sturdy water bottle: You need to stay hydrated, so a reusable water bottle is an important item.
- Sleeping bag and mat: If you’re going to be camping outdoors, a sleeping bag and sleeping mat will keep you warm and comfortable.
Time To Get Those Boots Dirty: Where To Go
Kathmandu Valley, Nepal: Perfect for relative trekking novices and hardcore veterans alike, the Kathmandu Valley is the gateway to the Himalayas.
Yunnan, China: China’s mountainous province of Yunnan is famous for its Tiger Leaping Gorge, maybe the most well-known trek in southern China.
Inca Trail, Peru: Peru’s Inca Trail combines stunning scenery with a fascinating history to provide an unforgettable experience to visitors.
Picos de Europa, Spain: The Picos National Park in Asturias, Spain provides a wealth of fantastic trekking options and is well worth a visit.
Himachal Pradesh, India: On the Indian side of the Himalayas is the Himachal Pradesh, home to some of the most rewarding terrain anywhere in the world.
Routeburn Track, New Zealand: Lord of the Ring’s fans rejoice; this trail winds its way through NZ’s Southern Alps, taking in breathtaking vistas along the way.
The Haute Route, France and Switzerland: There are few more stunning trekking locations anywhere in the world than the French and Swiss Alps.
Cradle Mountain, Australia: Take an unbelievable trip through Tasmania’s highlands on one of the trekking paths that criss-cross this region.
Are You A Danger-Seeker? You're In Luck!
Trekking is generally a safe activity but, like all the best things in life, it is not without its dangers. Here are a few tips on how to avoid them.
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Invest in High-sided Hiking Boots: Twisted ankles are among the most common trekking and climbing injuries. Make sure your hiking boots provide support to your ankles on uneven terrain and remember to watch your step.
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Acclimatise Slowly: Altitude sickness is no joke and can seriously derail your trekking adventure. Do your research before you go and take the necessary precautions as you familiarise yourself with your surroundings.
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Know Your Own Level: Only experienced trekkers should try to tackle high mountain routes alone. Know your level and stay within that level at all times to ensure a safe, thrilling and rewarding trip.
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Stay with the Group and Heed Warnings: If you’re travelling with a group, don’t be tempted to wander off. Always heed warnings about local dangers. Stay attentive and alert and keep yourself safe.
Read The Small Print
Before you head off on the adventure trail it’s vital to read the policy wording (PDS) to ensure you understand what is and isn’t covered. Remember the level of cover and exclusions varies between insurers, so check it out to suss out what’s the deal with your chosen cover. And if there’s something you don’t understand you can contact the provider directly.
climbing and trekking insurance faqs
Eugene Wylde
Eugene is the king of insurance! Having spent more than ten years raising awareness on the importance of holiday protection, he is a self-confessed insurance geek extraordinaire when it comes to the world of travel cover. Eugene loves helping people save time, worry and loads of money with the right policy at the right price. His ideal holiday is any one where he has a pina colada in his hand. Salut!