As Australians increasingly pivot their travel routes toward Asia, new claims data from Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has revealed a significant spike in gastrointestinal illness, with the region now accounting for the vast majority of ‘holiday-ruining’ stomach bugs.
According to SCTI’s 2026 data to date, Asia has become the primary hotspot for gastro cases, representing a staggering 85% of gastro-related claims in SCTI’s dataset. The surge comes as more Aussies opt for stopovers in Asian hubs en route to Europe, shifting away from traditional Middle Eastern transit points.
Indonesia remains the most common location in SCTI’s claims data for ‘Bali belly’ and similar ailments, with more than half (57%) of all global gastro claims this year originating there.
A notable rise in cases may reflect changes in travel patterns, including more travellers choosing stopovers in Asia, which can increase their exposure to local food and water-borne bacteria. Claims so far in 2026 range from simple GP visits to emergency hospitalisations for severe dehydration and secondary infections, often requiring last-minute flight changes.
Key insights from SCTI 2026 claims data:
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Almost nine out of ten (85%) gastrointestinal claims paid by SCTI this year relate to travel within Asia
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Indonesia continues to lead as the most common location for gastrointestinal illness in SCTI’s claims data, accounting for over half (57%) of total cases
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Over $360,000 worth of claims were paid out by SCTI for gastro-related medical issues in the first quarter of 2025 alone, an 80% increase from the $200,300 paid in the same period in 2024
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Overall gastro claims grew by 55% across SCTI’s dataset, as more Aussies returned to international travel.
The average cost of a gastro claim has risen by 16%, now sitting at $1,100 per claim with the data showing severe cases, often requiring hospitalisation and ambulance transfers, which can reach as high as $5,600 for a single incident.
Jess Strange, Chief Customer Officer at Southern Cross Travel Insurance, comments: “We are seeing a clear correlation between the shift in Australian travel patterns and the rise in gastro claims. As more travellers choose to break up their long-haul flights to Europe with a stay in Asia rather than the Middle East, they may encounter a different set of health risks.”
“Gastro might sound like a common travel inconvenience, but our data shows it can be a significant financial hit. From intravenous drips in a Bali clinic to missing a connection to London, the ‘stopover sting’ is a real consideration for the 2026 travel budget.”
SCTI offers International Comprehensive travel insurance policies to help travellers explore with confidence, with cover for eligible expenses should they fall ill unexpectedly.
