According to information website gapyear.com: "With insurance the vital thing is you've got to get out there and forecast for everything you think you're going to do on your trip."
Tom Griffiths, founder of the firm, warned travellers to make a full declaration to insurers, as if they fail to notify the company of a pre-existing medical condition, the policy will be invalid.
He added that
backpacker travel insurance customers should also be honest about what they plan to do while abroad, such skiing, deep sea diving or hiring a moped.
The results of not having insurance can be devastating financially, said Mr Griffiths: "If you're a younger traveller, you're going to have to go to your parents, who might have to remortgage their house or otherwise you are going to find yourself in severe trouble."
Downunder - the market leaders in online
backpacker travel insurance.