What you should check for:

Never leave home without insurance.

Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Pre-existing medical conditions are not usually covered. You need to contact the insurer for additional coverage.

Pregnancy falls into the pre-existing category. Find out to what extent the pregnancy is covered and whether this includes premature birth.

Renting a Car
Renting a car presents problems. Travel insurance can provide cover, but check the excess involved. It may be better to use the insurance provided by the car rental company. Your travel insurance may not include some classes of vehicle such as campers, 4WDs or sports cars.

Valuables
Extra cover is often necessary for expensive items such as cameras and jewelry.

Luggage
Is your luggage covered at all times? Leaving your bags in a car, at check-in, or even in a locked hotel room may not be covered by insurance. Check your policy for the "on your person" clause.

Children
Policies commonly provide free cover for the children of couples or single parents - but check for limits such as age just to be sure.

Age
Travel insurance has age restrictions. If you're over 45, backpacker discounts may not apply. At 65 or 70 you will probably need to pay for extra cover or have a medical check-up before cover is provided.

Cancellation
Cancelling a trip just before departure can also have limits. Check for limits such as pre-existing medical conditions and age. If a close relative becomes ill, similar restrictions often apply.

Adventure Travel
Adventure travel attracts extra cover. If you're considering bungee jumping in New Zealand, white-water rafting in NW Australia or surfing in Hawaii notify the insurer for a possible extra premium.

Online Insurance
Buying insurance online may be cheaper, but information may be more difficult to find and charges such as excess levels may be different.

Before you leave
Buy your travel insurance before you leave. It may be difficult to get similar cover once you've arrived at your destination.

Credit Card Insurance
Travel Insurance that comes with a credit card often has restrictions. You commonly need to pay for some or perhaps your entire trip with your card. There are age restrictions and limits on how long you can be away.