Digital detox? No thanks!

• Aussies are jetting away with $5K worth of gadgets packed in their luggage
• Two-thirds of stolen tech items uninsured

Aussie travellers are choosing not to switch off from their digital devices, taking on average five pieces of technology on holiday with them – packing close to $5K in their luggage.

Signalling the death of the digital detox, new research conducted by Southern Cross Travel Insurance shows the majority (92%) of Aussies cannot bear to leave the country without their beloved gadgets. A third (35%) have completely ruled out ever taking an unplugged holiday and a quarter (26%) would be dubious of a destination if they had to go tech-free.

While Aussies continue to favour smartphones (71%), cameras (68%), and tablets (45%), over two-thirds (65%) spend their holiday capturing the perfect social media pictures, with selfie sticks and GoPros being added to the packing list.

Aussie travellers’ digital dependence is proving costly, with many people not insuring their technology. Despite the majority (94%) saying a stolen tech item ruined at least part of their holiday, more than two-thirds (65%) weren’t covered. Women were twice as likely to have uninsured lost tech items, while the over 65s were the biggest risk-takers and the highest uninsured age group.

Craig Morrison, CEO for Southern Cross Travel Insurance says: “The days of packing your travel bag with a book, pack of cards and a bag of sweets have passed. Aussie travellers are now bringing thousands of dollars of tech on holiday, yet many aren’t insuring these valuable items. Unfortunately when things go wrong – and items are lost or stolen – it’s not only making a severe dent in the pocket, it’s ruining holidays.

“We encourage all Aussies to check their travel insurance policies to ensure their gadgets are adequately covered so they can relax and enjoy their holiday. That said, we encourage all travellers to be as responsible with their personal belongings overseas as they would be at home.”

Gone are the days of guidebooks or playing wild card with restaurant choices. Nearly two-thirds (64%) of Aussies are using technology to research and book restaurants and bars from their sunbed. No longer relying on a good sense of direction, nearly half (49%) of travellers use their technology to find their way around.

While relaxation is considered the most important aspect of a holiday (88%), Aussies are still unwilling to switch off from their social circles back home. Responding to emails (51%) and browsing social media (35%) are also leading ways to use technology.

Morrison added: “In the 30+ years we've been in the industry, we've seen technology change the way we travel to the extent it’s now essential for many. To ensure customers can leave the country with full peace of mind, our TravelCare policy provides cover for electronic items.”

Lost, stolen or damaged laptops, PCs and tablets are covered up to $3,000 per item, whilst other electronic devices are covered up to $1,500 per item.

Higher value items can be specified on the policy and covered up to $10,000 per item, with a $15,000 total limit for all specified items, for an additional premium.

For more information visit www.scti.com.au