Travel insurance for New Zealand
Kia Ora! Travel to the land of the long white cloud, “Aotearoa.”
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Essential tips for traveling in New Zealand
Home to outstanding natural wonders, a rich culture, and delectable eats, New Zealand is a land of plenty when it comes to travel experiences.
‘Kiwis’ are an affable bunch who prefer the outdoors to in. And when you step foot on “Aeoteroa” it’s clear why. The Bay of Islands offers world-class sailing, Fjordland National Park should be an immersive experience, and coming face-to-face with the cerulean waters of the Kawarau River on a bungy jump in Queenstown is all but a rite of passage.
No matter what your plans are, you should consider travel insurance as you never know when it may come in handy in the land of the long white cloud.
What’s covered?
Planning a trip to a laidback country has a way of rubbing off on you - you can feel impervious to the unruly. The truth is accidents, theft, and medical emergencies happen. Ease your mind before you go (or while traveling) with World Nomads travel insurance. With two levels of cover, Standard and Explorer, and depending on your Country of Residence, all our plans offer cover (up to the benefit limits) for:
- Loss of baggage and personal effects
- Medical emergencies
- Unexpected trip cancelation
- Trip interruption and delays
- Issues arising from a wide variety of sports, activities, and experiences.
Consider your travel insurance needs and select the right plan for you. If you need to make a claim, extend your policy, or get a quote (even while traveling), we’re here to help.
Note: all travel insurance plans are different, and cover will vary, depending on what's happened, your Country of Residence, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy.
What’s not covered
World Nomads is here to help, however travel insurance is not designed to cover everything, like if you decide you’d rather travel to Australia instead. With World Nomads, you can buy travel insurance when you book your trip from home or while you're already traveling around New Zealand. These are some circumstances where you won’t be covered:
- Cancellation costs because you’ve changed your mind.
- Participation in a sport or activity that is not listed in the policy wording (or agreed by World Nomads where you haven’t paid an additional premium)
- Mishaps as a result of reckless behavior.
- Costs arising from refusal to be repatriated once declared medically unfit to continue a trip but fit for repatriation.
- Non-emergency treatment that can wait until you return home (it's not health insurance, it's travel insurance for medical emergencies).
- Expenses you have not made every reasonable attempt to recover from the carrier, accommodation provider, booking or travel agents, any compensation scheme, or other source.
If you have any questions or are unsure if something is covered, contact us for more information.
Protect your gear from theft
Yes, Kiwis are a friendly bunch but that doesn’t mean theft and crime don’t exist. While not high, petty crime can be an issue.
Vehicle theft
Thieves are known to target vehicles. Never leave your valuables in your car or campervan, whether you’ve locked the doors or not, particularly in remote regions.
Never leave valuables unattended
Even in a safe country like New Zealand it’s important to always keep your valuables in sight. In cities, on public transport, and crowded areas be aware of your surroundings and never leave your valuables unattended - even for a minute.
Adventure sport
Adventure is all but New Zealand’s middle name. We cover a wide variety of sports and activities but before you strap on that bungy cord or slay the slopes in Queenstown, paddle down rushing rapids, or zorb down a grassy knoll, confirm which activities are covered as part of your travel insurance.
Hiking safety
New Zealand is one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in the world. From tramping The Milford Track to exploring Fox Glacier Valley, you’ll want to pack your walking shoes. No matter the trail it’s important to be prepared: always check the weather, hike with someone, and pack water and an emergency survival kit - because you never know what’s going to happen on the trail.
Access our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team around the clock
When you have World Nomads travel insurance you have access to 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team. If something goes awry our team can help, whether that’s finding a local medical facility, assisting with consular details, or getting you home for the medical help you need via repatriation.
Travel insurance doesn't cover everything. All of the information we provide is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions of the plans described. Coverage may not be the same or available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance. Featuring coverage for more than 150 activities, you can get a quote, claim, or extend your policy online at www.worldnomads.com. All the information we provide about travel insurance is a brief summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions of the travel insurance plans described. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.
Watch Anton's true claim story
I fell on my side and heard the sound of dry stick breaking, I realized my leg was broken, then I just lay on the beach... The first phone call I got was from World Nomads and they basically told me, you don't worry about this Anton, just focus on getting better...and we'll take care of the rest.
Anton, World Nomads customer from Iceland
Get a quote 24/7
With World Nomads you can buy travel insurance before you land in New Zealand, or while you're already traveling around. Fill out the quick quote form below and get an instant quote today.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team.
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Are there Covid-related travel restrictions in New Zealand?
New Zealand reopened to travelers in late 2022. There are currently no restrictions or pre-departure Covid tests required. If you test positive to Covid-19 while there, you are still required to isolate for 7-days. Check your policy wording for full details on how we may be able to help if Covid impacts your travel plans. Make sure to check the countries entry requirements.
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What happens if I lose my passport in New Zealand?
After reporting the loss to local authorities, we recommend you contact your nearest embassy or consular to advise them your passport has been lost or stolen. Depending on your Country of Residence we may be able to help. Contact us for details.
Travel insurance for Australia
Essential travel insurance tips
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Essential travel insurance tips
Ignoring the practicalities of traveling through a large, remote and often very hot and dry country has caught out many experienced travelers. Here are a few things to know about your travel insurance cover before you travel around Australia.
Protect your gear from theft
Australians are renowned for their welcoming attitude and it’s with good reason, however, while the majority are friendly to travelers, some are more interested in your wallet than getting to know you. Theft is a common claim in Australia. It takes just seconds for a thief to grab your camera or wallet from under your beach towel at Bondi while you’re swimming, or off the table while you’re ordering coffee. Always keep your valuables on you or locked up (using the hotel safe or hostel lockers). Also don’t leave anything in your car as break and enters are common in urban areas (especially at night). If your belongings aren’t with you, and there is no evidence or police report of a theft, you may not be covered if they’re stolen.
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything, particularly if you leave something behind or, on some insurance plans, if your gear is damaged. Check your policy carefully for full details of cover, including the limit payable on each item, the excess (your contribution or deductible) and any exclusions or conditions of cover such as depreciation or valid proof of ownership.
Baggage delay
Australia’s remoteness is part of its charm but can also present some challenges if your baggage is delayed. Most visitors require a halfday plane ride to get to Australia, so you’re unlikely to get your baggage back quickly if your airline has delivered it to Sidney, Canada instead of Sydney, Australia. Most travel insurance policies can help replace essentials, like a change of clothes or toothbrush, if you have to wait more than 24 hours for your bags to arrive. Travel insurance isn’t designed to swap your ripped jeans for a designer pair, so read this section of your policy carefully before you spend up big and then try and claim.
Before you leave home, ensure your baggage is clearly labelled and the tags are firmly attached, giving your airline the best chance of getting it on the right plane or finding it quickly and getting it back to you.
Medical insurance for accidents or injuries
The Australian medical system is first class, but it comes with a price, so make sure you take out a full medical travel insurance plan before you travel. This is different to the medical insurance cover you might have at home which won’t cover you overseas. Medical Insurance is your safety net if you become very unwell; it’s not designed to pay for every scratch and headache, which is why benefit limits and excesses apply. If you’re hurt or injured, contact us for assistance and we can help you understand what your policy covers. You may decide, if your ailment is minor and under the excess, to not make a claim. If it’s a life-threatening medical condition, always seek medical help immediately. Let us know as soon as you can what has happened so we can help you access medical assistance and keep your family and friends informed.
Adventure sport coverage
There are many great opportunities to do adventure sports in Australia, which is why our travel insurance covers hundreds of them from kite surfing to skiing and parasailing. Policy exclusions do vary, so, depending on the level of cover you’ve purchased, read it carefully and make sure you’re covered before you go bungee jumping in Cairns or scuba diving in Byron Bay. If you get hurt skiing in the Victorian Alps, and it’s not in your policy, it’s going to be a very expensive trip. Check your policy carefully so there are no surprises Your travel insurance policy will have limits and exclusions. This ensures the policy you pay for is kept at a lower cost. And, remember, if you do something really stupid, like grab a snake by the head or go swimming with crocodiles, you may not be covered at all.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam
Essential travel insurance tips for your trip through Asia.
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You are viewing global travel insurance tips. For US residents: Learn how Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos are covered at World Nomads USA and get an instant travel insurance quote.
Southeast Asia is a traveler’s dream. From the wonders of Ha Long Bay in Vietnam to the ancient temples of Cambodia, and Buddha Park in Laos, there’s something for everyone. But before you head off to Vietnam, Cambodia or Laos, consider our travel tips so you can make the most of your holiday.
1. Traveler’s diarrhea
Diarrhea can take down even the most seasoned of travelers, so if a local dish leaves you feeling ill, our assistance team can help you find the nearest doctor with our overseas medical cover. With World Nomads travel insurance, you can make a claim for reimbursement for these medical expenses (less any excess, which may apply), even if you’re still traveling.
What is overseas medical cover?
Our overseas medical cover is designed for even the smallest medical emergency, and our Emergency Assistance team is here to support you 24/7, even if you’re held up in a squat toilet. If it’s really serious, they can arrange for an emergency evacuation to the nearest hospital, and guarantee payments if necessary, so you can focus on your recovery.
The danger with gastro is you can lose more fluids than you can keep down. Dehydration can be deadly, so even though you may have a trusty stash of Pepto-Bismol, don’t rely on your own instincts or Dr Google for medical advice.
2. Riding motorbikes and scooters
Motorbikes and scooters are common way to get around throughout Southeast Asia. We understand, it’s fun, can help you explore more of the country, and it’s easy to hire a bike. It’s also not surprising that accidents are common, and we see everything from exhaust pipe burns to injuries caused by horrific crashes, which can sometimes be fatal.
If you’re going to ride a bike anywhere in Vietnam, Cambodia or Laos, it’s essential that you know what your travel insurance covers, what it doesn’t cover, and how to get help if you need it. If you need help understanding your policy, contact us.
Motorbike and scooter travel essentials
- Bring your driver’s license from home (paired with an international driver’s permit for the class of vehicle you’re intending to hire).
- Check for the correct plan or adventure sport upgrade (if applicable) for World Nomads to cover you to ride a motorbike or scooter in the class you’re licensed to ride. See below under 'Choosing the Right Policy For You’.
- Importantly, you must comply with local laws.
- You must wear a helmet at all times.
- Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Choosing the right policy for you
We offer two plans – Standard and Explorer – each of which offers different levels of coverage. It is up to you to choose what plan has the right level of coverage to meet your travel needs and that matches your specific plans, especially if you plan on riding a scooter or motorbike.
If you’re not sure what’s covered, or have any questions about your policy, you can contact us.
Cover for more than 150 activities, sports and experiences
With so much to see and do in Southeast Asia, it’s a good thing our policies cover more than 150 activities, sports and experiences, including using a motorbike or scooter. We can also offer cover for water sports activities, volunteering, cycling and more!
3. Theft
Theft is very common across Asia. It's a good idea to leave valuables at home, and, if you take out your camera, smartphone or money in public, be aware of your surroundings, and keep an eye out for passing motorcyclists, who are known to snatch valuables as they drive by.
All World Nomads travel insurance plans have some coverage for theft or if a carrier has lost your checked in luggage, depending on your Country of Residence and your chosen plan.
However, with any insurance plan, limits, conditions and exclusions may apply, for example, if you have simply misplaced your gear or if your tech gets damaged. Generally, you need to be able to show that you took reasonable care to look after your gear.
Tips for keeping your gear safe:
- Before you travel to Vietnam, Cambodia or Laos, store a copy of your gear receipts or other proof of ownership, as you’ll need to provide this with any claim if your gear is stolen.
- Contact your bank before departure to let them know how long you will be overseas in case of suspicious transactions, especially after you return home.
- Always carry your electronics and valuables with you and lock your gear up in a secure location when you can’t take it with you.
Tips for making a baggage claim:
If general, you will need a police report, or some other kind of report from an authorized representative (e.g., a property irregularity report from the airline or bus company if your bags were checked in), to validate baggage/gear claims.
- If you need emergency assistance as a result of theft, you can contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team.
- If your stuff is stolen, follow the steps in our handy guide to make a claim
- If your passport is stolen, don’t panic – we can help
- If the airline loses your bags, or they are delayed, you may be able to make a claim if you have the information outlined in this guide
Travel insurance doesn't cover everything. All the information we provide is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions of the plans described. Coverage may not be the same or available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
Real-claim story “I was walking along the pavement and I was robbed by men on a motorbike. The pillion passenger snatched the bag I was carrying. I was in shock and did not give chase as the motorbike was too fast. The street was not empty, with some pedestrians and food sellers. I made a police report at a local police station.”
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for Thailand
Turquoise waters, vibrant culture, lush jungles and Tuk Tuks
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Thailand welcomes millions of visitors each year. Learn how travel insurance could help you in Thailand.
- Surviving traveler's diarrhea
- Riding Motorbikes and Scooters
- Theft
- Will an excess or deductible apply?
Surviving traveler's diarrhea
You're going to find a variety of delicious food while traveling in Thailand but food preparation standards can vary. Gastro and its unpleasant side effects are one of the more common medical complaints our World Nomads have while traveling through Thailand.
Fortunately, our Emergency Assistance team can support you 24/7, even if you’re held up in a squat toilet. We can help you find a doctor, particularly useful in Thailand’s remote areas, where access to medical care is harder to come by. Or if it’s really serious, the team can arrange for an emergency evacuation.
Hospitals in Thailand (especially if you’re near Bangkok or Phuket) are usually well-equipped to treat you even if they may seem less modern than facilities you’d find at home.
But let’s hope you don’t get there. Here are some simple actions that can help save you and your tummy:
- Always wash your hands before and after eating or use a hand sanitizer… that little action can save you a lot of time and expense!
- Never eat anything that's been sitting around, even for a short while. How long has that food in the hotel buffet really been sitting there?
- Try to pick clean, fly-free food stalls that have a lot of people at them. A food stall that's popular will have a high turnover of produce, so nothing is left sitting around to go off.
- Don't drink tap water in Thailand; stick to bottled, boiled or treated water. Most restaurants use ice from the extensive network of ice factories which use purified water. The safe ice is easy to spot… it’s tubular in shape.
- Gastro can turn deadly quickly if you lose more fluids than you can keep down. Seek help early and carry rehydration sachets with you.
Riding Motorbikes and Scooters
It’s easy to rent a motorcycle, so it’s not surprising that we see everything from exhaust pipe burns to injuries caused by horrific crashes, which can sometimes be fatal.
For your coverage to take effect, certain conditions apply:
- You must bring your driver’s license from home.
- You need to comply with local laws and safety practices (obey speed limits, don’t drive drunk).
- Always wear a helmet.
If you choose to ride, be sure to buy a travel insurance plan that covers motorbike and scooter use. Read our article on covered sports, activities and adventures. In some cases, you may also have to buy an adventure sport upgrade for an additional premium.
World Nomads coverage for travelers hurt in motorcycle accidents may include:
- Emergency medical expenses for treatment at the hospital or by a doctor at the local medical center
- Evacuation to more suitable medical facility if it’s urgent, medically necessary and if you’re fit to travel
- Repatriation if you’re seriously ill or injured and unable to continue your trip.
If you need medical treatment, evacuation or repatriation, you or a travel companion MUST contact our Emergency Assistance team immediately.
Limits, conditions and exclusions to coverage will apply so read your policy carefully for full details.
Theft in Thailand
Before you travel to Thailand, store a copy your receipts, as you’ll need proof of ownership to make claim should your items get stolen. Contact your bank before departure to let them know of your travel plans, and be on the lookout for any suspicious transactions, especially after you return home.
All World Nomads travel insurance plans will have some coverage for theft. However, with any insurance plan, limits, conditions and exclusions may apply. For example:
- If you have simply spaced out and misplaced your gear or if your tech gets damaged from everyday wear and tear, this is not covered.
- Generally, you need to be able to show that you took reasonable care of your belongings. That means you should carry your electronics and valuables with you at all times and lock your belongings up in a secure location, as can be described in your policy wording.
If your stuff is stolen, you’ll need a police report, or some other kind of report from an authorized representative (for example, a property irregularity report from the airline or bus company if your bags were checked in) to validate your claim.
Will an excess or deductible apply?
An excess or deductible is the amount you pay for covered expenses before insurance coverage kicks in. Whether or not you have an excess or deductible depends on your country of residence. Check your policy wording. If your claim adds up to less than the excess or deductible, then you don’t get paid out.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamIs Travel Insurance Really Worth it?
Why we believe you should always protect your hard earned vacation from the unexpected.
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Why travel insurance is important to consider
For those who never travel with travel insurance, you’ll hear things like "Oh, it doesn’t matter if you lose your bags, just travel light with stuff you can afford to replace” or “Medical bills in Southeast Asia are pretty cheap if you need to get over food poisoning” or our favorite "Travel insurance companies will just tell you the horror stories to get you to buy insurance."
The last one is unashamedly true. We absolutely want you to know we’ve had to deal with thousands of emergencies and evacuations over the years. We want you to know that without travel insurance, an emergency evacuation can cost in excess of US$100,000.
Most of the time you go on holiday your travels will be memorable for all the right reasons. You’ll not have to experience the nightmare of being seriously ill or injured in a foreign country. But if you do, the last thing you want is not having the support or financial means by which to get treated and flown home.
For that alone, you may find travel insurance is worth considering.
It can however be a little confusing, so let’s try and demystify travel insurance.
At World Nomads, we aim to present insurance terms with clarity, however there are times when certain terms and conditions will have various restrictions, limits and exclusions, which only the description of coverage (policy wording) can fully explain.
The key components of travel insurance
Travel insurance is ultimately a legal contract. You should spend the time to read all the details and description of coverage and exclusions (policy wording) thoroughly and ask questions if you don't understand what you're covered for prior to purchase.
Here, we outline simply what each major part does:
- Medical emergencies and evacuation
- Coverage for Coronavirus-related events
- Trip cancellation
- Baggage and personal belongings
- Personal liability
- Coming home early and resuming your trip
Overseas medical emergencies and evacuation
Having access to overseas medical cover in case of a severe injury or a sudden illness that lands you in hospital could be a life saver in more ways than one. Hospital costs in some countries like the US can approach US$10,000 per day, while emergency transport home for treatment (medical repatriation) can easily exceed US$100,000.
Definitely take the time to read this part in detail, especially the areas of cover for emergency evacuation, benefit limits on medical expenses and cover for emergency dental work. Also make careful note of the general exclusions, which are outlined in the description of coverage (policy wording).
Coverage for Coronavirus-related events
Our policies have been created to include coverage for some Coronavirus-related events to give travelers access to benefits including emergency medical coverage and benefits related to travel expenses on the Explorer Plan. It varies by Country of Residence and depends on which plan you have purchased.
The level of coverage you’ll have for any Coronavirus-related events will depend on your Country of Residence. If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 while overseas, your benefits may include:
- 24/7 access to our Emergency Assistance Team, who can help you access local medical care
- Medical costs including hospitalization
- Evacuation or repatriation if deemed medically necessary by us and in consultation with your attending medical practitioner.
To find out what cover applies to you, read our What’s Covered for Coronavirus article which has all of the details, including benefit limits, conditions and exclusions.
Trip cancellation
There’s nothing worse than having to cancel your holiday because of a sick relative, work issues or some other major life event. With World Nomads you’ll have access to cover for costs if you suddenly find you can't go on your trip for some unforeseen reason such as illness, an accident or a death of a close relative.
Not all travel insurance plans cover cancellation, and only some cover your non-refundable, pre-booked costs if your trip is interrupted after you've left home, so please read the description of coverage (policy wording) relevant to you carefully.
Baggage and personal belongings
While loss of your personal belongings is often the main reason most people buy travel insurance, it is arguably the least important: your things can be replaced but your health often can't. World Nomads expects you to take 'reasonable care' of your belongings which means a claim may be denied if you leave your camera in a shared room in a hostel or in your car overnight (unsupervised in a public place) and it's stolen.
If you are taking your laptop, camera and other valuables with you, some of our travel insurance plans may allow you to specify these items to cover their higher value. Check your policy benefits and description of coverage (policy wording) carefully for the limits on this cover and exclusions, particularly for cash, high value items and sporting equipment.
Personal liability
First off, this is not insurance for liability while you are driving your car or motorbike or operating any watercraft. If you are otherwise involved in an accident or accidentally cause damage and are held accountable for it, insurance can cover your liability and legal expenses. Once again not all World Nomads policies offer this type of cover so, please read the description of coverage (policy wording) relevant to you.
Coming home early and resuming your trip
Travel insurance usually ends the minute you arrive home, so if you have bought a policy for 12 months and come home after four, you aren't entitled to a refund on the 'unused' portion. For some of our policies, you can resume your trip on the same policy; you just won't be covered for the time you're at home. Read the description of coverage (policy wording) and look at the clauses for period of coverage and the terms 'medical evacuation', 'trip interruption' or 'curtailment' for details on when you may be covered for expenses if you have to return home early (and always read the exclusions to cover carefully).
Not all travel insurance is the same
All travel insurance policies have specific benefits, conditions and exclusions so it's common sense, and necessary to take the time to read the policy wording carefully. These vary depending on your Country of Residence, so please take the time and always contact us if you are unsure about anything.
Things to look out for when reviewing your travel insurance:
- Make sure you correctly choose the right trip dates, age limit, and level of cover.
- Ensure all your destinations are covered.
- Make sure you understand what a pre-existing medical condition is under our policy.
- Some activities and sports may require extra level of cover or may not be covered.
- Make sure you clearly understand the benefit limits and the excess as per the level of cover you’ve selected.
- Understand that there will be General Exclusions in your cover for which you won’t be covered under any circumstances.
- Make copies of travel documents and keep receipts in case you need to make a claim.
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance. Featuring coverage for more than 200 activities, you can get a quote, claim, or extend your policy online at www.worldnomads.com. All the information we provide about travel insurance is a summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions of the travel insurance plans described. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.
Want all the details?
You can compare the Standard and Explorer plans and prices through getting an instant online quote.
Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation
Learn what's covered if you have booked and paid for your trip and unexpectedly need to cancel.
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If your swimsuit is packed for your sunny vacation to California but suddenly you can’t go, travel insurance could help. You may be able to claim for your non-refundable costs of cancelling your trip (a 72-hour waiting period applies before coverage begins).
For Brazilian residents, all of World Nomads travel insurance plans include cancellation cover if you have an accident or get sick before you leave.
In addition, you may be covered for cancelling your trip if a close relative (your father, mother, spouse or child) is hurt or seriously ill (policy conditions apply).
What's covered?
If you’ve bought your travel insurance policy with World Nomads, you may be able to make a claim for your non-refundable cancellation costs. These include (but are not limited to):
- You experience an illness or personal accident that medical experts determine will prevent you from traveling.
- You, or your traveling companion or a close relative (spouse, parent or child) is hospitalized or dies.
- A judicial summons.
- If you are fired unfairly from your current job.
- If your house catches fire, explodes or suffers serious damage.
Note that if you transfer your trip to another person as a result of one of the covered events, the transfer expenses may be covered by this coverage, provided they do not exceed the cancellation expenses.
What’s not covered?
Travel insurance cancelation cover doesn’t include everything. This means you may not be covered if you cancel your trip due to:
- Changing your mind!
- Vaccination expenses.
- Accidents resulting from anything illegal or intentionally aggrivating your risk.
- Events that the insured is already aware of before purchasing the travel insurance policy
This is not a full list of what's covered and not covered. There are item limits and conditions that apply, so for more information read your policy carefully before you buy.
Be prepared if you need to claim for cancellation.
Depending on your claim, you'll need copies of:
- Receipts
- Itineraries
- Doctors/death certificates
- Medical history
- Written documentation from the travel provider of reason for cancellation and any refunds
Wife's accident cancels Kilimanjaro
I have to cancel my trip to Tanzania because my wife had an accident and she is waiting for a scan of her back. I should fly to Berlin tomorrow, then Bergen and day after to Africa. It is impossible now because she is alone in the house and I have to take her tomorrow to hospital for another scan. I paid 900 pounds for a Kilimanjaro Climb which is not refundable as it is too close to departure. I paid a deposit for a 3 day safari and had to cancel flights and my volunteer job.
S.K. Norwegian Nomad.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamGet a travel insurance quote
Simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.
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