'Intense': Aussies are forgetting this key detail about Southeast Asia
On a recent family holiday to a resort in Indonesia, I had visions of how we'd spend our days.
Long walks on the beach, lying around with a book and a mocktail, playing with our toddler in the pool all day.
But there was one thing I completely forgot to factor into these plans: the heat.
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A beach holiday is great - but not if its too hot. Getty
Every day, as the temperatures soared past 30 degrees and the humidity sank in, we had to retreat into the air conditioning rather than enjoying time outdoors.
Perhaps a fan and some shade would have been enough to keep me cool by the pool, but with a boisterous toddler in tow we had to give up and stay inside.
Thankfully, there was still plenty to do, as our resort had an indoor play area and games room, plus our son has a two-hour midday nap every day, meaning we could tag-team activities.
It turns out that I'm not the only one who kinda forgot that Southeast Asia gets hot. Really hot.
According to Southern Cross Travel Insurance, the number of Aussies making travel insurance claims due to issues associated with heatstroke is going up – and the number one spot where it happens is Indonesia.
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Indonesia is the number one spot for heat stroke related travel insurance claims. Getty
Thailand and Vietnam - two countries that Aussies love for a low-cost holiday - round out the top three destinations where SCTI processes heatstroke related insurance claims.
The average claim payment associated with heatstroke in 2025 was $1,625 - money that you could be out of pocket for.
Jess Strange, Chief Customer Officer at SCTI tells nine.com.au the average cost of claims paid has increased, showing the rising cost of medical treatment and the importance of having coverage.
"Aussies love to travel to sunny destinations, but it's important we remain aware of the risks of heatstroke and stay hydrated or in shaded areas where possible, as intense heat can unexpectedly impact our bodies," she says.
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Southeast Asia is a popular spot - but it gets hot. Getty
For our trip to Indonesia and Singapore (notoriously hot places!) I packed a couple of hand-held battery fans, and one that is designed to sit around your neck to keep you cool.
These were an absolute lifesaver to have on hand, especially while navigating our way through the steamy streets of Singapore.
I'd also recommend bringing a reusable water bottle and sipping on it as often as possible to stave off heat stroke.
You don't want to have to spend your whole holiday indoors (though an afternoon nap is always a treat), so pack smart and be prepared.
