Southern Cross revamps travel insurance to include pets, child care

Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has revamped its flagship TravelCare policy as rising numbers of airline passengers re-emerge following the brunt of the pandemic.

Under the new policy, which has been renamed to International Comprehensive, large groups of up to 30 people can be included in one package. Pet care and childcare cover are also included, in addition to select benefits such as emergency dental cover, accompanying person, and rental vehicle excess.

In a news release, SCTI CEO Jo McCauley said that the changes to this flagship product are necessary as travellers are now well and truly re-emerging after the global pandemic. A study conducted by the SCTI found that four in five New Zealanders travelled domestically in the last 12 months.

“We have always revised our products to meet customer needs when needed, for example introducing COVID cover, and domestic travel insurance to reflect the travel climate during the pandemic,” McCauley said. “One change we’re excited about is the ability to sell a policy online which includes more than two adults.”

Coverage for pets and kids

McCauley also said that both pet care and childcare are covered in the case of travel delays. If customers’ pets are staying at a kennel or cattery, passengers can receive up to $100 a day and up to $1,000 per paying person to help pay these bills. The same coverage applies to babies and for parents or caregivers delayed in their return home.