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Travel Insurance for Natural Catastrophes

For when nature intervenes.

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For information relating to policies purchased prior to 27 June 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased from 27 June 2024, please see below.

Natural catastrophes not only cause physical harm, they also shut down airports, wipe out accommodation, and cancel trips. 

While some natural catastrophes are completely unpredictable, a lot of them - think hurricanes, flooding, and even volcanic eruptions - often give off enough warning for you to prepare yourself so you're not caught unaware.

For those policies that do cover natural catasatrophe in one way or another, you'll need to have bought a policy before the event is known and do everything you can to minimise your expenses. 

What does travel insurance cover if there is a natural catastrophe?

Natural Catastrophe is defined as: Volcanic activity, volcanic ash, earthquake, tsunami, hurricane, cyclone, flooding of more than 50 square kilometres, wildfire of more than 50 square kilometres.

The Explorer plan may offer some Natural Catastrophe cover if your trip is affected. Trip Disruption includes cancellation, trip curtailment along with some delayed/missed flight cover.

Also with our Explorer plan, in the event of a natural catastrophe, cover may be provided for additional accommodation expenses incurred to move to an alternative if, after checking in during your trip, your are forced to move after your original pre-booked accommodation became uninhabitable for at least 24 hours.

Not all of our plans cover natural catastrophe. It's a good idea to read through the policy wording as you go through the purchase path as there are limits on the cover depending on which plan you buy.

What’s not covered by travel insurance in a natural catastrophe?

  • If you’re a storm chaser and put yourself in its path
  • If you don’t follow the advice of the authorities
  • If you hang around to watch what happens
  • If you buy a policy after an event becomes known

For more information check out our article on natural catastrophes and read your policy carefully before you buy.

If you’re travelling to a region that’s known for natural catastrophes, it's a good idea to do some research to see if there have been any warnings. If you buy a policy after an event is known, and the natural catastrophe impacts your trip, you won’t be covered for any expenses.

This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. If you are unsure about your level of travel cover get in touch.

If you’re travelling to a region that’s known for natural catastrophes, it's a good idea to do some research to see if there have been any warnings. If you buy a policy after an event is known, and the natural catastrophe impacts your trip, you won’t be covered for any expenses.

Tsunami in Sumatra.

On the night 25/10/2010 I was on the surf charter boat, in the Mentawai Islands, Sumatra, Indonesia. There was an earthquake and tsunami that hit and completely destroyed the boat. The boat caught fire. The fire spread rapidly and we had to abandon ship. The boat along with all personal belongs were completely destroyed. The fire spread so quickly that there was no time to collect any belongings. The only things I ended up with were the shorts I was wearing, my watch and wedding ring. Almost all my possessions and documentation were on the boat and destroyed.
W.Hallet. Australia in Indonesia.
Claim Paid: $2942.68

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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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 team

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions about natural catastrophe insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team. 

Photo © Geber86/IStock
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Travel Insurance for Trip Resumption

Learn if we could help you get back on track after your trip's been interrupted.

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Trip Resumption: What's covered by travel insurance?

If you've had to interrupt your trip and return home because you were sick or injured overseas, or one of your close relatives has been hospitalised or has died, certain World Nomads policies can cover reasonable transport and accommodation expenses to get you back on the road so that you can finish your trip.

Your policy still needs to be valid when you resume your trip and needs to be the one that you were traveling on when you had to return home.

Cover depends on your country of residence, and the limits depends on the policy that you choose, so make sure you read your policy carefully.

Trip Resumption: Does my country of residence cover  it?

Country of residenceTrip Resumption Cover
Australia
Brazil
Canada
Ireland Explorer plan only.
New Zealand
United Kingdom Explorer plan only.
USA
All other countries

Trip Resumption: What's not covered by travel insurance?

  • Any expenses incurred while you're at home
  • Expenses to get you back on your trip, if you went home because you're home sick
  • A business class upgrade where you've been flying budget airlines
  • Resumption if your policy has expired

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 check out our article on trip resumption and read your policy carefully before you buy.

Be prepared if you need to claim for trip resumption.

Depending on your claim, you'll need copies of:

  • Receipts
  • Itineraries
  • Doctors/death certificates
  • Medical history (ruling out pre-existing conditions)
  • New flight tickets

Grandma in palliative care.

My Grandmother suffered an acute Subarachnoid Haemorrhage after having a fall and was subsequently placed in Palliative Care in November. I received a phone call to return home as my Grandmother only had a few days to live according to the doctors. I returned home and she passed away. I then recommenced my travels after her passing and funeral.
R. Villani. Australian overseas.
Claim Paid.

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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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 team

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions about trip resumption insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team. 

Photo © Migin/IStock
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Travel Insurance for Medical Repatriation

When illness or injury trashes your trip, get home in one piece

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For information relating to policies purchased prior to 27 June 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased from 27 June 2024, please see below.

Serious accidents or illnesses can happen at any time during your trip, whether you’re trekking through the Eurasian Steppe or (not so) simply crossing the road in Vietnam. And if it’s bad enough to end your trip mid-way or if our medical teams recommend you return to your country of residence for treatment, our repatriation cover can help get you home safely.

The cost of medical evacuations can vary, depending on a number of circumstances, including the remoteness of the location from which the evacuation might occur, as well as the type of medical care required for injuries or illnesses incurred. That's what our emergency medical, evacuation and repatriation insurance in all of our plans is designed to cover.

I need help now – what do I do?

The first step is to get medical help.

It’s essential that you get in contact with our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team as soon as possible so that our team can support you from the time your fall sick or get injured until the time you get home.

Our 24/7 Medical Emergency Assistance Team can make arrangements and get pre-authorisation for your repatriation home. Our doctors and nurses have seen some horrific accidents and illnesses and have helped thousands of travellers get home safely to fully recover. Our teams are trained to help in these situations, negotiating the complexities of hospitals, specialist transportation, airline approvals and medical escorts so you (and your family) can focus on your recovery.

World Nomads offers benefits for medical issues related to Coronavirus (COVID-19) under the Medical section. If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 while abroad, your benefits include evacuation or repatriation if deemed necessary by us and in consultation with your attending physician.

Our article What’s covered for Coronavirus explains the benefits available if you get COVID-19 and need urgent assistance.

Please note that cover is up to the amount shown in your policy wording and is subject to our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team or us, on the advice of a medical practitioner appointed by us in consultation with your medical practitioner overseas, first deciding that:

  • Transportation is medically necessary; and
  • The style and timing of the transportation are reasonable and appropriate; and
  • You're medically fit to be evacuated; and
  • You should be transferred back to your country of residence.

How World Nomads travel insurance can get you home

Travel insurance is made to cover emergency treatment abroad and, if necessary, to provide cover to rearrange your initial travel plans or for specialist medical transportation to get you back home. If our medical teams believe it’s necessary to bring you home for treatment or ongoing care, there’s cover in all of our policies for:

  • Air Ambulance
  • Sea Level Aircraft
  • Ground Ambulance
  • Flight changes, upgrades or just more space
  • Flight upgrade + medical staff

What's not covered

There are some cases where it's just not possible to provide cover:

  • Flight upgrades, new flights or changes without our approval (or where it's not medically necessary).
  • Refusal to return home for treatment.
  • Changing your mind to not continue your trip, even if you're fit to travel.
  • Medical expenses once you're back in your home country
  • A joy flight to get down off the mountain after you've reached Base Camp.

The policy isn’t designed to cover everything so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the policy wording for full details, so there are no surprises if you need to use it. If you’re not sure if something is covered get in touch.

How to get assistance

If you suddenly fall ill or are injured, it’s essential to contact our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team once you are aware you will be admitted as an inpatient for at least one night. That way, we can ensure you get the right care from the beginning to the end – from initial emergency treatment in a local hospital, through to medical repatriation home if medically necessary. So that we can assist you quickly, please be ready with the following when you contact us:

  • Your policy number
  • A contact number for where you are now
  • The nature of your problem
  • Your location

Dislocated shoulder

Skiing at Squaw Valley, Lake Tahoe, CA, USA. On an intermediate run, clipped into a snow drift and tumbled over landing on shoulder. Shoulder dislocated. Taken to Squaw Valley Medical Clinic and given x-rays then had the shoulder put back into place.
Japanese Nomad in USA

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 hospitalized?
  • Travel buddy deceased?
  • Close relative dropped dead?

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 drugs?
  • 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
  • Luggage lost?
  • Passport pilfered?
  • Tech trashed?

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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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 team

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions on medical repatriation. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team. 

  • Can my mum (or another family member) come and get me?
    In some situations (where deemed medically appropriate) we can pay for a loved one’s transport and accommodation so they can accompany you home. If you’re on certain types of medication, we might send a nurse or doctor instead.
  • What happens if I’m on life support?
    That’s a really bad way to end your holiday and we hope you never end up on life support. But if you do, we will look at every situation individually to try and find the best solution.
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Travel Insurance for Delayed Baggage.

For when you show up but your bags don't.

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For information relating to policies purchased prior to 27 June 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased from 27 June 2024, please see below.

You know that sinking feeling when you’re waiting at the luggage carousel, everyone has left and it finally grinds to a halt… without your bag appearing.

That’s where travel insurance and our Baggage Delay benefit can help out, saving you from a sweaty, smelly, uncomfortable few days (hopefully not more) until your bags arrive.

What's covered by travel insurance if my bags are delayed?

If your baggage is delayed more than 24 hours our policies offer cover for essentials items like:

  • Clothing
  • Essential prescribed medication
  • Toiletries

It's important to remember that there are benefit limits and an excess will apply. 

What you’re not covered for

If your bags arrive within 24 hours of when they were supposed to, you won’t be able to claim any expenses back.  We also won’t cover:

  • The rental or purchase of sports equipment if your sports equipment is delayed by the carrier
  • Indirect losses, such as administrative or transport costs involved in collecting the baggage or lost opportunities due to not having your baggage
  • Any items that aren’t considered ‘essential’.  That means no Gucci leather jackets!
  • The purchase of essential items if your bags are delayed on the way home, as the insurer expects you’ve got other clothes to wear once your return home

What do I do if my bags don’t arrive?

First step is to speak to your transport provider who was responsible for transporting you. You need to make a report and get back from them a Property Irregularity Report or similar official statement including certain details – see How to Make a Claim for more information. 

If it’s going to take at least 24 hours or more to get your bags to you, then you can look at claiming back the cost of essential replacement toiletries, clothing and prescription medication to tide you over. Any claims paid for essential items will be deducted from any successful lost baggage claim you may subsequently make. 

Benefit limits apply so this isn’t a green light to buy the latest Gucci leather jacket you’ve been hankering after. 

The policy isn’t designed to cover everything so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the policy wording for full details, so there are no surprises if you need to use it. If you’re not sure if something is covered get in touch.

Items you can claim if your bags are delayed:

  • T-shirt(s)
  • Underwear
  • Socks
  • Toiletries
  • Prescribed medication
  • Reasonable & necessary essential items (check your policy for details)

Items that aren't covered if your bags are delayed: 

  • Designer jeans to replace your fisherman's pants
  • A new ball gown for that special event
  • Tailor made suit
  • Leather jacket
  • Other non-essential items you can live without for a few days

Bags delayed in Heathrow.

Flew out of Heathrow to Los Angeles. The airline claimed the baggage loading system at Terminal 1 had failed and they would be unable to load all the luggage. When we arrived, several hours late in LA, my bag was one of the many missing. We filed a delayed baggage report with them and were promised the bag would be delivered the next evening. I did not actually receive it until three days later. Everything was in tact when it arrived, but in the meantime I had to manage with the clothes I was wearing for the journey. We had trips booked the first two days in LA and we managed to get to a store to buy some items for me to have a change of clothes and enjoy the swimming pool in the hotel.
Claim paid: €121.25
Norwegian Nomad in L.A.

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 deceased?
  • Close relative dropped dead?

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 drugs?
  • 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
  • Luggage lost?
  • Passport pilfered?
  • Tech trashed?

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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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 team

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for delayed baggage. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team. 

  • What supporting documents do you need?
    You’ll need a Property Irregularity Report (‘PIR’) from the carrier confirming the delay and any compensation they provided to you or offered to you, your receipts and a copy of your itinerary. Written confirmation from the airline or travel company stating the length of delay, may also be required.
Photo © Mickey Wiswedel/Stocksy
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Travel Insurance for hiking & trekking

Simple and flexible travel insurance to take you trekking around the world. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.

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Travel insurance when hiking

From incredible landscapes unfolding beneath well-worn feet to seeking nature’s solace, hiking has a magnetism all its own. Whether it’s walking the windswept fells of England’s Lake District or tackling Europe’s great massifs; hiking puts you front and center in some of the world’s most stunning locations.

Preparation is key to any hiking adventure overseas, learning about the area, checking the route and packing the right gear if the weather rolls in. Along with a trusty map, it can pay to pack travel insurance to help if an unexpected accident or illness stops you in your tracks.

What’s covered for hiking and trekking?

Are you an experienced international hiker looking for your next extreme challenge or do you prefer a relaxed family weekend away? No matter how venturous your hiking plans, depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you choose, World Nomads plans offer cover (up to the benefit limits) for:

  • Emergency medical: overseas emergency medical expenses at a hospital or medical centre if you suffer an unexpected injury or illness while hiking.
  • Evacuation: approved overseas emergency medical evacuation to the most appropriate medical facility for treatment or repatriation back to your country of residence. Emergency transport is subject to approval from the 24-hour Emergency Assistance team.
  • Trip cancellation: has a sick or injured traveling companion put a stop to your hiking break? Your plan may be able to recover the unused, non-refundable travel expenses.
  • Gear protection: had your camera stolen while hiking in Thailand? Our gear coverage can help with replacing belongings swiped from under your nose. You’ll need a police report to submit with your claim as well as copies of the original receipts and supporting documentation.
  • Lost, stolen or damaged baggage cover: we offer cover for baggage and items which you take with you or buy during your trip if they are stolen, damaged or destroyed, or if lost or damaged by a carrier. You must report all theft or loss to the police as well as to the common carrier, service provider or other local authority as soon as possible. Get a Property Irregularity Report or other incident report from the carrier so you can submit it with your claim, as well as a police report, copies of the original receipts and any luggage tickets.
  • Delayed baggage cover: has your checked-in baggage been delayed for more than 24 hours? Your plan may cover essential items you purchase while you’re waiting for your baggage.
  • Coronavirus cover: we offer cover for some Coronavirus related events. To find out more click here.

Choose a plan to suit your needs

Both our Standard Plan and Explorer Plan  may offer many of the same benefits including coverage for hiking or trekking up to 6,000 meters, you just need to select the maximum elevation you’ll be hiking to at the time of your quote.

An upgrade for certain sports and activities may be required. Check out our article on covered sports and activities, which can help you select the optional upgrades for the activities you have planned, when you buy your policy; you can’t add them afterwards. Terms and conditions apply, please read your Policy Wording carefully and contact us if you have any questions.

What’s not covered for hiking?

Sorry – we won’t cover you if you do something reckless (such as tackling a week-long hiking trip in a remote area when you’re only a beginner). Some things we don’t cover include:

  • Pre-existing medical conditions as explained in your Policy Wording.
  • Free mountaineering, climbing in remote or inaccessible regions, exploratory expeditions and new routes, high altitude climbing over 6,000 metres, mountaineering expeditions or activities within Antarctica, the Arctic Circle or Greenland.
  • Search and rescue operations to find or rescue you as per your Policy Wording.
  • If you do not follow the local safety advice and warnings.
  • Any adventure or sport activity you did not specify on your policy.
  • If you refuse to be repatriated or evacuated.
  • If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or what we or the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team advise you to do. If you are unable to contact us before arranging emergency transport or medical treatment, this may impact your cover.
  • Expenses that can be recovered from other sources e.g. transport carriers, accommodation providers, credit card issuers or other insurance policies.
  • Medical treatment that can wait until you return to your country of residence.
  • If you don't keep your gear safe and secure at all times. 

How to get the most out of your travel insurance

Before you head for the hills, the following tips can help you maximize your safety and validity of cover. 

  • Inform a local assistance company of your trekking route and policy details.
  • If you’re hiking and need emergency medical treatment, or evacuation, you, or someone with you should contact our 24-hour Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible. They will contact a suitable assistance or ambulance company and arrange medical care.
  • Check which countries your trail passes through to ensure your policy covers you for that region.

Traveler Tip: for the intrepid hiker, be aware a policy excess applies if you need to be medically evacuated within Nepal.

This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

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 died?

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
  • Rolled your ankle?
  • Bedridden after a local delicacy?
  • Struggling with altitude?

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
  • Road or air ambulance?
  • Flight assistance?
  • Medivac needed home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Go pro stolen?
  • Gear damaged in transit?
  • 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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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 team

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions about hiking and trekking. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team. 

Photo © Getty Images/Westend61
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Travel insurance for hiking & trekking - World Nomads

Simple and flexible travel insurance to take you trekking around the world.

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

For information relating to policies purchased prior to 27 June 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased from 27 June 2024, please see below.

Whether it’s the trek or the view you’re chasing, the world’s great hiking destinations will leave you breathless. From Europe’s alpine trails to the mist-soaked rainforests of Costa Rica, hiking has a magic all its own. 

Preparation is paramount to any hiking adventure abroad; learning about the area, checking the route and making sure you have the right gear in case bad weather rolls in. Along with a trusty map, it helps to pack travel insurance if hiking accidents stop you in your tracks.

What’s covered for hiking and trekking?

Are you an experienced European hiker looking for your next big challenge or are you happier on a relaxed family hike? No matter how adventurous your hiking plans, World Nomads plans may offer cover (up to the benefit limits) for:

  • Emergency medical: overseas emergency medical expenses at a hospital or medical centre if you suffer an unexpected injury or illness while hiking. You’ll need to contact the 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance team. Expenses must be medically necessary and agreed by the insurer in order to receive reimbursement of your covered expenses.
  • Evacuation: we offer approved overseas emergency medical evacuation to the most appropriate medical facility for treatment or repatriation back to your country of residence. Emergency transport is subject to approval from the 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance team.
  • Trip cancellation: has a sick or injured travelling companion put a stop to your hiking break? Your plan may be able to recover your unused non-refundable travel expenses.
  • Gear protection: had your camera stolen while hiking in Thailand? Our gear coverage can help with replacing belongings that were swiped from under your nose. You’ll need a police report to submit with your claim as well as copies of the original receipts and supporting documentation.
  • Lost or damaged baggage cover: have your bags or personal items gone missing? You must report all theft or loss to the common carrier, service provider or other local authority as soon as possible. You must also get a Property Irregularity Report or other incident report from the carrier so you can submit it with your claim. Where your belongings have been stolen, you must also report it to the local police and obtain a police report. These reports, and copies of the original receipts and any luggage tickets, can be submitted with your claim.
  • Delayed baggage cover: has your checked-in baggage been delayed for more than 24 hours? Your plan may cover essential items you purchase while you’re waiting for your baggage to arrive.

Choose a plan that suits your needs

Both our Standard Plan and Explorer Plan may offer many of the same benefits including cover for hiking or trekking up to 6,000 metres, you just need to select the maximum elevation you’ll be hiking to at the time of your quote.

If you’re lucky enough to have some extra adventure or sport activities planned such as kayaking or mountaineering, check out our article on covered sports and activities, which will help you select the optional upgrades you’ll need to add to your plan when you buy your policy as you can’t add them afterwards. Terms and conditions apply, please read your policy wording carefully or contact us if you have any questions.

What’s not covered for hiking?

Sorry – we won’t cover you if you do something reckless (such as tackling an extreme hiking trip into a remote area when you’re only a beginner). Some things we don’t cover include:

  • Pre-existing medical conditions as explained in your policy wording.
  • Free mountaineering, climbing in remote or inaccessible regions, exploratory expeditions and new routes, high altitude climbing over 6,000 metres, mountaineering expeditions or expeditions to the Arctic or Antarctica or of a dangerous nature.
  • Search and rescue operations to find or rescue you, as per your policy wording.
  • Any adventure or sport activity graded above the actvity level specified on your Certificate of Insurance.
  • If you refuse to be repatriated or evacuated.
  • If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or what we or the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team advise you to do.
  • If you do not follow the local safety advice and warnings.
  • Expenses that can be recovered from other sources e.g. transport carriers, accommodation providers, credit card issuers or other insurance policies.
  • Medical treatment that can wait until your return home.
  • If you don't keep your gear safe and secure at all times. 

How to get the most out of your travel insurance

Before you head for the hills, the following tips can help you maximise your safety and validity of cover. 

  • Inform a local assistance company of your trekking route and policy details.
  • If you require any medical treatment during your trip abroad you must contact our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance Team when you are aware you will be admitted as an inpatient for at least one night. 
  • Check which countries your trail passes through to ensure your policy covers you for that region.

This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You can read more about hiking and travel insurance and you should read your policy wording in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

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 died?

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
  • Rolled your ankle?
  • Bedridden after a local delicacy?
  • Struggling with altitude?

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
  • Road or air ambulance?
  • Flight assistance?
  • Medivac needed home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Go pro stolen?
  • Gear damaged in transit?
  • 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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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 team

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions about hiking & trekking coverage. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team. 

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Travel insurance for scuba diving

Simple and flexible travel insurance to keep you safe on your next dive trip. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.

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Why buy travel insurance when going scuba diving?

Calm waters, crystal clear visibility and a bulletproof dive plan might make for the perfect underwater adventure, but accidents can happen, even to the most experienced divers. Whether you're learning or you’ve done hundreds of dives, World Nomads Travel Insurance can help take the pressure off you and your family when the unexpected sinks your next dive trip.

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?
  • Dive 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
  • Stepped on a stonefish?
  • Got a serious squeeze?
  • Need 02 or hyperbaric treatment?

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
  • Sea level medical evac?
  • Need an ambulance?
  • Medivac needed home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Go Pro stolen?
  • Bags lost in transit?
  • Luggage 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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

For information relating to policies purchased prior to 27 June 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased from 27 June 2024, please see below.

World Nomads love Scuba Diving

As passionate divers ourselves, we’ve designed our plans to cover dives from the Great Blue Hole to The Yongala.

  • Recreational scuba diving (qualified divers to 30 meters)
  • Learn-to-dive courses or discover scuba dives (with qualified instructors)
  • Shark cage diving to a maximum depth of 30 metres
  • Snorkeling, island escapes, live-aboard trips, and more

*Note: Conditions and exclusions apply. Read the policy wording carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport option for your trip.

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 team

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions about scuba diving. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team. 

Photo © Visit Almaty/Pexels
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Travel insurance for ski & winter sports

Simple and flexible travel insurance for skiers and snowboarders. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.

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Whether you're a newbie hitting the bunny slopes or a seasoned pro tackling the black diamonds, accidents can happen. With World Nomads travel insurance, you can shred the slopes and let your winter adventures be as smooth as the freshest powder.


ski fields
People skiing. Photo credit: Pexels / Samuel Walker

What does World Nomads travel insurance cover for snow sports?

Depending on your country of residence and the plan you choose, our policies can protect you up to policy limits for benefits including:

Choosing the right policy for you

We offer two travel insurance plans – Standard and Explorer – each of which offers different levels of coverage and benefits for your winter adventures. It is up to you to choose which plan has the right level of coverage to meet your travel needs and matches your specific snow sports plans.

With World Nomads you can get a quote, make a claim, or extend your policy instantly online, anytime, from anywhere.


What snow sports activities are covered?

As passionate ski bums, we’ve designed our plans to offer cover for the winter activities that our Nomads love the most. We can cover:

  • Skiing and boarding within resorts, including off-piste
  • Heli-skiing & heli-boarding (some plans only, check yours carefully)
  • Sledding and tobogganing
  • Snowmobiling, ice skating, snow rafting & more.

It’s important to note that all plans are different depending on your country of residence and may require an upgrade for cover to apply. Read the Policy Wording carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport option for your trip. If you’re not sure whether the snow sports you want to do are covered, contact us.


ski fields
People skiing in mountains. Photo credit: Pexels / Tincho Santini

What’s not covered

While there are several things we can offer coverage for, there are also things we just won’t cover. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Any competition, free-style skiing/snowboarding, ski/snowboard jumping, ski-flying, ski/snowboard acrobatics, ski/snowboard stunting, or ski racing or national squad training, the use of skeletons.
  • Some winter and snow sports have special terms including exclusions for remote areas, racing, time trials and endurance events. Check the policy wording carefully.
  • Any of your ski or winter sports items lost, stolen or damaged that are unsupervised or unattended, that are over 3 years old, or while in use
  • If you travel against medical advice or neglect to adhere to U.S. Department of State ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure
  • Any adventure activities or sports that aren’t covered by our policies or where you don’t purchase the appropriate level upgrade
  • Any pre-existing medical conditions
  • Any costs related to illegal activities or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Tips for your winter sports adventures

Whether you’re a pro skier or planning your first ever winter trip overseas, these tips may be helpful when planning your next winter getaway:

  • It pays to be prepared: check the weather, check your equipment, and check the credentials of your ski instructor – if any seem unreliable then reconsider if it’s a smart move to go.
  • Don’t get in over your head: be responsible when choosing a skiing or snowboarding destination or winter sports activity. Does it suit your experience level? Are you using an accredited tour operator?
  • Keep an eye on your ski gear: don’t leave your expensive ski and winter sports gear or any other baggage unattended - those 'I spaced out” moments might not qualify for coverage.
  • Be aware of skiing or snowboarding no go zones: don’t go into back country areas without taking local advice and appropriate rescue equipment. You should follow the International Ski Federation code or the resort regulations.
  • Proof of purchase: any claim you make will need supporting documentation such as receipts of your purchases. Keep these with you in printed or digital form if you intend to make a claim.
  • Be responsible: choose a ski tour operator that promotes responsible tourism, works as part of the local community, as well as actively helps to conserve the environment.

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. If you have any questions, please contact us.

FAQ's

Here are our most frequently asked questions about ski and winter sports. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team. 

  • Does World Nomads travel insurance cover skiing and snowboarding accidents overseas?

    Our policies can cover skiing and snowboarding accidents overseas. There’s cover for emergency medical expenses, evacuation and repatriation back home.

    It’s important that you select the snow sports activities you intend to do when purchasing your policy. If you don’t declare the snow sports activities you intend to do, you may not be covered if you suffer an accident on the slopes. Restrictions apply to certain winter sport activities, so be aware of this so you’re covered if something goes wrong.

  • Are winter sports equipment covered by World Nomads travel insurance?
    We can cover your ski and snowboard equipment if it is damaged, lost, stolen or delayed. Our travel insurance plans offer different limits of cover for baggage, so be sure to choose the plan that best meets your needs. Keep in mind that we can’t cover damage to sporting equipment while in use or loss, damage or theft of any sporting equipment left unattended. Be sure to read the policy wording for terms and conditions.
  • Do you cover snow trip cancellations due to adverse weather conditions on the slopes?
    If your snow trip is cancelled, delayed or restricted due to a natural catastrophe such as avalanche, our policies provide cover for the value of your unused accommodation, less any refunds you receive, up to the benefit limit of your plan. If your trip is affected by a natural catastrophe be sure to get supporting documents for any claims.
  • Is snow sports cover just for medical expenses?
    Snow sports cover provides cover for the unexpected, whether that’s a medical situation on the slopes, your gear is lost or delayed, or your trip is cancelled due to a natural catastrophe, including avalanches. Our policies can help protect you against those unexpected situations.

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?
  • Ski 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
  • Slipped on ice?
  • Tore your ACL or MCL?
  • Popped a shoulder?

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
  • Road or air ambulance?
  • Flight assistance?
  • Medivac needed home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Go Pro stolen?
  • Bags lost in transit?
  • Luggage 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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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 team
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Travel insurance when participating in snow sports

Simple and flexible travel insurance for skiers and snowboarders. Buy at home or while travelling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

Why buy travel insurance when going skiing or snowboarding?

Big dumps, fresh tracks and bluebird days will make for an epic trip, yet accidents on and off the hill do happen, even to the most experienced sliders. If you’re just learning on your first trip or you’re a ski bum chasing seasons, World Nomads Travel Insurance can help you and your family when the unexpected hits your next winter adventure.

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?
  • Ski 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
  • Slipped on ice?
  • Tore your ACL or MCL?
  • Popped a shoulder?

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
  • Road or air ambulance?
  • Flight assistance?
  • Medivac needed home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Go Pro stolen?
  • Bags lost in transit?
  • Luggage 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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

World Nomads loves the snow

As passionate ski bums, we’ve designed our plans to cover the style of riding our Nomads love the most*:

  • Skiing and boarding within resorts
  • Cross country skiing on marked trails
  • Terrain parks and heli-skiing 
  • Ice skating, snow rafting & more

*All plans are different and may require an upgrade for skiing or snowboarding cover to apply. Conditions and exclusions apply. Read the policy wording carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport option for your trip.

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 team

FAQ

Here are our most frequently asked questions about snow sports insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team. 

Learn How To Take Great Photos of Mountains From a Pro
Travel Photography

Learn How To Take Great Photos of Mountains From a Pro

Emily Polar has made a living by sitting out raging storms to get the perfect shot. She shares her knowledge on how to photograph in mountain terrain.