One Kiwi’s trip to the US ended up being half a million dollars pricier than expected and not because the exchange rate caught them out.

The traveller saw their America trip cost an additional $467,000 after they fell ill with varicella encephalitis, a rare but severe neurological condition according to Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI). CEO Jo McCauley said it took the top spot on the list of most expensive claims in 2024; a list entirely comprised of medical emergencies.

“Our top claims have been very complex medical claims which can be distressing and challenging for everyone involved and very, very costly,” McCauley explained. Overseas, simple medical care can quickly cost thousands of dollars, while the cost of missed travel and experiences or emergency flights home can further increase the bill.

The second most expensive claim was $411,856, for a traveller who experienced pancreatitis in South Africa, while a Kiwi in Greece required an air ambulance transfer after suffering from bilateral pneumonia, clocking up a $234,500 bill.

A heart attack in Canada left one Kiwi with a $206,452 bill, while a medical issue found one cruise passenger with a bill for $151,204 in French Polynesia.

Most expensive Southern Cross Travel Insurance claims of 2024

$467,000 - US - Varicella encephalitis

$411,856 - South Africa - Pancreatitis

$234,500 - Greece - Bilateral pneumonia

$206,452 - Canada - Heart attack

$175,000 - US - Dislocated ankle and broken legs

$151,204 - French Polynesia - Medical issue on cruise ship

$134,500 - US - Broken finger and ribs

Average domestic claim almost as high as international

Domestically, one of SCTI’s most expensive claims in recent months was for $26,000 because of an untimely bout of Covid-19.

“Our customers came down with Covid and had to cancel plans for onward travel around the South Island,” McCauley explained.

The CEO added that guided journeys around the Great Walks was another cost they often covered for customers who were unable to go through with their trip, as they cost thousands per person and are non-refundable after a certain date.

While travellers may assume domestic insurance is less valuable than international, McCauley said average claims are quite close in amount.

“From July 2023 to December 2024 the average value of a domestic claim sits at 84% of the value of an international claim,” she said.