Travel Insurance Benefits for Delayed Bags
Learn how travel insurance benefits may help US Residents if an airline delays their bags
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At a glance
- World Nomads Travel Insurance has four travel protection plans available for US residents, with some plans that offer higher limits of coverage
- Travel insurance benefits for delayed bags are included in all World Nomads plans (per-day and maximum limits vary by plan)
- If your checked-in bags are delayed by more than 12 hours en route to your destination, your plan may reimburse you for essential items like toiletries and a change of clothes
- A non-insurance service that’s included with all plans may help reunite you with lost checked baggage
- Why should I consider travel insurance and non-insurance assistance services for delayed bags?
- Items You May Be Reimbursed For
- Some exclusions that may not be covered
- Maximum Benefit Amounts For Baggage Delay
- What to Do If Your Bags Are Delayed
- FAQs
Why should I consider travel insurance and non-insurance assistance services for delayed bags?
According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, more than 5% of bags are lost, damaged, delayed, or pilfered by US air carriers*. If your luggage goes missing, World Nomads Travel Insurance offers travel protection plans with two ways to help—first by helping track it down with an included non-insurance service perk, and second by helping cover essential purchases while you wait. The non-insurance service covers every flight, anywhere in the world. If your checked baggage is lost or delayed by an airline, you should first talk with the airline and try to get it sorted out with them. If the bag is still missing, your next message should be to our Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery service partner. They will get on the case and may get your bag headed in the right direction, quickly.
If your checked-in bags are delayed or misdirected by your common carrier for more than 12 hours en route to your destination, your plan may also reimburse you for essential items so you're not left wearing the same thing until your bags are found and returned. You may also be covered for other reasonable and necessary essential items, such as a warm coat if you’ve arrived at the ski slopes in Japan. (Per-day and maximum limits apply.)
Items You May Be Reimbursed For
- Underwear
- Socks
- A change of clothes
- Toiletries
- Pajamas
- Reasonable essential items deemed necessary
Some exclusions that may not be covered
- Eyeglasses, sunglasses, or contact lenses
- Hearing aids
- Orthodontic devices
- Prescription medications
- Credit cards**
- Tickets**
- Cash and documents**
**(except as otherwise specifically covered herein)
Maximum Benefit Amounts For Baggage Delay
| Standard Plan | Explorer Plan | Epic Plan | Annual Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to $150 per day, up to a maximum of $750 Get a quote |
Up to $200 per day, up to a maximum of $1,000 Get a quote |
Up to $250 per day, up to a maximum of $1,250 Get a quote |
Up to $200 per day, up to a maximum of $1,000 total Get a quote |
What to Do If Your Bags Are Delayed
- Report it to your airline or other common carrier.
- Complete all documentation required by the carrier.
- Contact our Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery service partner and provide them with the file reference, record locator number, and Property Irregularity Report.
- If your checked bags are delayed by your common carrier for at least 12 hours, you may be reimbursed for essential items such as toiletries and a change of clothes. Review your plan documents to see what your per-item and maximum limits are.
- Don’t go on a shopping spree and get a new wardrobe if your bags are delayed. Consider what can actually be considered ‘essential’ items versus ‘wants’. Call the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team if you want to be sure (we highly suggest you do this so there won’t be surprises).
- Save receipts for all items you purchase.
- You’ll then need to file a claim online within 20 days after a loss occurs.
- Submit relevant receipts for the items you buy as part of the claim process within 90 days.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for delayed bags You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
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Do all World Nomads plans include travel insurance for delayed bags?
Yes, all of the travel protection plans offered by World Nomads Travel Insurance include travel insurance benefits for delayed bags, though each plan has different per-day and maximum limits. When you get a quote, you can compare the coverage and limits in our plans side-by-side to see per-day and maximum limits. All plans also include access to our non-insurance Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery service partner that could help reunite you with your bag if it is lost or delayed.
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What should I do if my bags aren’t at the airport when I land?
If your checked baggage is lost or delayed by an airline, you should first talk with the airline and try to get it sorted out with them. If the bag is still lost, your next message should be to our non-insurance Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery service partner. They will get on the case and may get your bag headed in the right direction, quickly. Included in all plans, this service covers every flight on any airline worldwide. You'll receive updates at every step. Just report your lost bags to the airline, then provide the file reference, record locator number, and Property Irregularity Report.
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Can I get new clothes to wear until my bags are found?
If your baggage is delayed for at least 12 hours, you may be reimbursed for toiletries and a change of clothes until you and your bags are reunited. Per-day and maximum benefit limits do apply though, so this doesn’t mean you should go on a shopping spree and buy expensive designer outfits.
Items you can claim reimbursement for if your bags are delayed include things like:
- Underwear
- Socks
- A change of clothes
- Toiletries
- Pajamas
If you’re not sure what you can claim under your baggage delay travel insurance benefits, contact our team.
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Can I be reimbursed for a new coat if my bag is delayed and I’m in a cold destination?
If your checked-in bags are delayed by more than 12 hours en route to your destination, your plan may reimburse you for the essential items so you're not left wearing the same thing until your bags are found and returned. You may also be covered for other reasonable and (deemed) necessary essential items. For example, if you’ve arrived at the ski slopes in Europe without a warm jacket (and other clothing to suit the weather of your destination), you may be reimbursed for that.
Get in touch if you’re unsure what you can claim and be sure to look at your plan wording, including per-day and maximum limits, before making any purchase to replace your delayed items.
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What is the non-insurance delayed and lost baggage tracking and delivery service?
This is an additional service that is included in your World Nomads Travel Insurance plan. If your checked baggage is lost or delayed by an airline, our partnership with a Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery Service may help. This non-insurance service tracks and expedites your lost luggage, allowing you to continue your travels smoothly. Included in all plans, this service covers every flight on any airline worldwide. You'll receive updates at every step. Just report your lost bags to the airline, then fill out the form. You’ll need the file reference, record locator number, and Property Irregularity Report.
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Do travel insurance benefits cover lost and stolen bags?
Yes, certain travel insurance benefits may cover lost and stolen bags (up to per item and maximum benefit amount) Terms and conditions apply. When you get a quote for travel protection with baggage benefits, you can compare the plans side by side. If you’re not sure what’s covered, contact our team.
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 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?
- Medevac 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)
Travel insurance while already abroad
Get covered by World Nomads, even if you're already overseas
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FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying away from home. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
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Is there a waiting period?
Yes, there is a waiting period for the policy and for types of cover. You can find the details in the Policy Wording.
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How long does it take to get a copy of my insurance?
As soon as the payment goes through, it will be emailed to you or in your membership.
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How do I extend my travel insurance if I'm already abroad?
You can extend your Single Trip policy online while already travelling as soon as your policy starts, up until 11.59pm GMT on the end date shown on your Certificate of Insurance. Please check the terms of the Policy Wording to confirm you are eligible.
Already travelling, decided to extend your stay and realised your travel insurance has expired? Or worse… realised you never bought it in the first place?
With World Nomads, if you live in the United Kingdom and you’re 69 years or younger, you can buy a policy online, anytime, from anywhere in the world.
We’ve designed simple and flexible travel insurance so you can buy what you need, when you need it, even while travelling. If you forgot to buy a policy before you started your trip, are outside the UK, or your cover has ended but your trip hasn’t, you can buy a World Nomads policy 24/7 online.
If you buy a policy after leaving home or when already overseas, a waiting period may apply, which means you may have to wait up to 72 hours for full cover to apply, and certain benefits (like pre-trip cancellation) may not be available as you’ve already left home (for trips solely winthin the UK) or boarded your transportation for international trips. Where the insurance is purchased after your trip has commenced, your country of residence will determine the laws, regulations and tax that apply.
Any illness or injury that occurs during the waiting period may be considered a pre-existing medical condition and, as a result, will not be covered. However, no waiting period applies if you're seriously injured as a result of an accident, if it’s witnessed by someone else, after you buy a policy.
Lastly, if you buy a new policy before your current policy expires, you'll have continuous cover. However, as your new policy terms and conditions may differ from your previous one, be sure to read the Policy Wording before you buy, as it will have full details of the cover, limits, conditions, and exclusions.
- Buy while travelling
- Get cover 24/7 online
- Instant confirmation
- Ongoing traveller support
- 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance
Waiting Periods apply
Malaria at Christmas
On the 25th of December I woke up feeling nausea, fever, headache, and lethargy. After two days with the symptoms not ceasing I went to a clinic and was admitted with severe malaria. I stayed in the hospital for two days taking shots for malaria and also saline drip.
A.G. Brazilian Nomad in Zambia
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
- Come to a sticky end?
- Called to jury duty?
- Been made redundant?
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?
- You or a family member dead?
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)
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 While Already Traveling
With World Nomads, you can easily get travel insurance while already travelling.
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- Do I need travel insurance?
- How do I get travel insurance while overseas?
- If I buy travel insurance while already abroad, what’s covered?
- What isn’t covered by travel insurance while overseas?
- Frequently asked questions
You’ve waited for this special getaway for so long. Maybe you’re heading out on a safari in Africa, backpacking through Europe, or learning to make pasta in Italy. With all the excitement of packing your bags, jumping on a plane, and jetting off to a faraway destination, travel insurance may have been the last thing on your mind. If you’ve already left Canada, you may now be asking yourself “Can I buy travel insurance while already abroad?” The answer is yes!
If you’ve left home without travel insurance, or your policy has run out and you’re still on the road, don’t panic. With World Nomads, you can easily get travel insurance while already travelling.
Do I need travel insurance?
Anytime you’re travelling, there’s always going to be some things you can’t anticipate. Because of this, travel insurance may be something you want to consider. As travellers ourselves, we’ve experienced cancelled flights and have been left sitting at the carousel for the bag that never came. We’ve also known nomads who have dealt with everything from biking injuries to stolen iPhones. Nobody enjoys dealing with these things, but they happen.
If you don’t start thinking about all of the “what if’s” until you’ve left Canada though, that’s ok. It’s still easy to get travel insurance while already abroad.
How do I get travel insurance while overseas?
You just need a good internet connection to get a quote for travel insurance while overseas. You’ll answer a few simple questions about your trip and follow the prompts that will outline the coverage and benefits offered by World Nomads travel insurance. You can then compare our Standard and Explorer plans side by side and select the best travel insurance plan for your needs. You’ll see that the Explorer plan costs more but has higher benefit limits and/or sub-limits than the Standard.
Make sure to add any activities you plan to participate in, read and accept the terms and conditions, pay for your insurance, and you’re done. It’s a simple process to buy travel insurance while already travelling, and within just a few minutes you’ll be back to lounging by the pool at your resort.
If I buy travel insurance while already abroad, what’s covered?
When you get a quote and purchase your travel insurance while overseas, you’ll see there’s several things that are covered.
Activities
World Nomads covers more than 250 activities for Canadian residents. When you get a quote and purchase your World Nomads travel insurance, you’ll need to list your planned activities. You won’t be able to add or remove activities after you make your purchase, so make sure you add them all at that time. It is best to list out all possible activities you may do on your trip, even if you aren’t sure. This way you can travel worry-free. If you plan on participating in an activity that isn’t listed in your policy wording, you can contact us to determine if you’ll be covered.
Medical Emergencies
Even if you have a Government Health Insurance Plan, it may only pay a small portion, if any, of your medical expenses while you’re travelling internationally. Unless you have travel insurance that includes emergency medical coverage, you will be responsible for any out-of-pocket expenses you incur when you see medical attention. Medical providers in some areas may even require upfront payment and in some cases, if you have travel insurance, the 24-hour Emergency Assistance team may be able to arrange payment directly with the medical provider.
Travel insurance from World Nomads includes overseas emergency medical coverage for Canadian travellers, and you could be reimbursed for things like an ambulance transfer, medication, or a hospital stay. You will still need to have Government Health Insurance Plan coverage in your home province while you are on your trip though. If you don’t, your total limit for all emergency medical expenses during your trip is limited to CAD $40,000.
Note that if you buy your World Nomads travel insurance plan while already abroad, there will be a 48 hour waiting period before you have emergency medical coverage for injury or sickness.
Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation
The availability of medical care is not the same in all destinations. If you get hurt hiking in a remote jungle in Thailand, you may find limited medical services available. Even if you’ve purchased your travel insurance while already abroad, local ground or air ambulance transportation and emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage will still be included in your World Nomads travel insurance plan. This coverage may help get you to a place that offers the level of care that you need, and could even assist with getting you back home to Canada if your attending physician and the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team agrees that’s best for your treatment.
Baggage
Baggage insurance may help reimburse the cost to replace your belongings if your bag was lost by a common carrier. World Nomads travel insurance includes coverage for lost bags, as well as delayed bags (up to your policy limits.) If your luggage is delayed more than 12 hours, you could be reimbursed for the costs of things like toiletries and a change of clothes.
Trip Interruption
Travel insurance covers many unwelcome situations that can occur while you’re on your trip. What happens if you unexpectedly get hurt while skiing in Japan and have to cut your trip short? Even if you wait to purchase your travel insurance while already abroad, your trip interruption coverage could help you be reimbursed for your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs if you can’t recover those costs from the travel supplier.
Natural Disasters
The Canadian government offers travel advice and advisories for destinations across the world, and you can easily see if there are specific risks for your destination. For example, the Canadian government offers warnings about volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis in Chile. You often can’t plan for the unpredictable forces of nature, and World Nomads offers coverage for unanticipated natural disasters that may cause the Canadian Government to issue a travel advisory against travel.
What isn’t covered by travel insurance while overseas?
Even the best travel insurance plans don’t cover everything. If you’ve thrown back too many cervezas in Mexico and trip and fall, you wouldn’t be covered for that.
A few other things that wouldn’t be covered include:
- Certain pre-existing medical condition(s) as explained in the policy wording
- Sickness or injury that happens within 48 hours of your departure date if you purchase travel insurance while already travelling
- Participation in other activities not listed as covered in your policy
- Travelling against your doctor’s advice
- Not following government ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure
- Travel within your home province
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. It is important you read and understand your policy as it contains benefits, conditions, exclusions and pre-existing condition exclusions. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions, just ask us.
Malaria at Christmas
On Christmas Day, I woke up feeling nausea, fever, headache, and lethargy. After two days the symptoms hadn’t disappeared so I went to a clinic and was admitted with severe malaria. I was in the hospital for two days and had to take medication.
A.G. Brazilian Nomad in Zambia.
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
- Come to a sticky end?
- Called to jury duty?
- Been made redundant?
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?
- You or a family member dead?
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)
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 about buying travel insurance away from home. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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Are there any waiting periods when I buy travel insurance while already abroad?
Yes. If you buy travel insurance while already abroad, there is a waiting period. There will be no coverage for any injury or sickness that occurs in the 48-hour period after your departure date (as defined in the policy).
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If I extend my trip, can I extend my travel insurance while overseas?
If you choose to extend your trip beyond your scheduled return date and you have not made a claim (nor is there any reason to make a claim), you may apply for a policy extension. The request for an extension must be made through and approved by World Nomads prior to your original return date. You must also pay the required additional premium before your original return date.
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If I have made a medical claim on my travel insurance while overseas, can I extend my policy coverage?
Yes, you can request an extension even if you already have a medical claim. However, if you have sought emergency medical treatment or filed a claim for emergency medical treatment prior to extending your trip, any subsequent medical treatment related to your medical emergency will not be covered under the extension of coverage.
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What is the best travel insurance while overseas?
World Nomads offers two different options for Canadian travellers. When you get a quote, you can check out the Standard and Explorer plans to compare coverage side by side. You can then determine the best travel insurance plan is the best for your particular needs.
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What is the cost for travel insurance while already abroad?
You can get an instant quote for travel insurance online and the whole process only takes a few minutes. Be sure to read your policy to see exactly what coverage is included.
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Does travel insurance cover travel within Canada?
Yes, World Nomads covers domestic travel for Canadians travelling within Canada. Your travel insurance can be used anywhere outside of your home province and you can still get a quote and purchase World Nomads travel insurance if you have already started your trip to another province.
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How do I make a travel insurance claim?
You can start a claim online at any time. Make sure you keep all receipts and documentation that you may need for your claim.
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Can my whole family be covered by my travel insurance while overseas?
With World Nomads travel insurance has options for solo travelers, as well as couples and families. You can include up to 2 adults and up to 7 children per policy. When you get a quote, you’ll be asked for information on the others in your travel party.
Worldwide 24 hour Emergency Assistance
Wherever you are, we’re there to help!
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Emergency Assistance for New Zealanders
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If it's an emergency, such as a serious injury, sudden illness, an accident or hospitalisation, contact our Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible. Our Emergency Assistance Team are available 24/7, 365 days a year.
From New Zealand & Overseas:
+61 2 8263 0470
+61 2 8292 1470
Within Australia (free call):
1800 611 210
SMS: +61 4 1720 4602
Email: assist@worldnomads.com
Not a kiwi? Find the right Emergency Assistance team:
Be prepared.
So that our Emergency Assistance teams can assist you quickly, please be ready with the following:
- Your policy number
- A contact number for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
- Prescribed medication (if any)
How does my travel insurance policy help me in an emergency?
Learn how your travel insurance policy can assist if you're in an emergency situation by watching this video.Bitten by a tick in Colombia
I was bitten by a tick in Sierra Nevada region on my trip in Colombia, and infected by borrelia. A doctor examined me and I have received treatment for borreliose with antibiotics and probiotics. However, as the brain fog and dizziness persisted even during continuing treatment, the emergency assistance team organised medical repatriation as it is not safe for me to travel with these symptoms.
A.B. Norwegian Nomad in Colombia
Emergency Assistance for U.S. Residents
Wherever you are, we’re there to help!
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For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
Emergency Assistance for U.S. Residents
If you get hurt or sick while on vacation, contact local authorities as soon as you’re able to do so for immediate attention.
If you are currently experiencing an emergency while on your trip, contact the non-insurance 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team at your earliest opportunity. The team may be able to help arrange emergency evacuations, offer translation assistance or get you to a suitable medical facility depending upon your individual situation and the coverage provided by your plan.
Telephone: +1-877-289-0968 (toll free within the US and Canada)
Telephone: +1-954-334-8143 (Collect worldwide)
Email: ops@gga-usa.com
Not from the U.S? Find the right Emergency Assistance team:
Be prepared.
The Emergency Assistance team will want to quickly assist you, so please be ready with the following:
- Your plan number (if you have it on you)
- A contact number for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
- Prescribed medication (if any)
Bitten by a tick in Colombia
I was bitten by a tick in Sierra Nevada region on my trip in Colombia, and infected by borrelia. A doctor examined me and I have received treatment for borreliose with antibiotics and probiotics. However, as the brain fog and dizziness persisted even during continuing treatment, the emergency assistance team organised medical repatriation as it is not safe for me to travel with these symptoms.
A.B. Norwegian Nomad in Colombia.
Travel Insurance for Death Overseas
Learn how travel insurance could help your family if you die overseas.
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For information relating to policies purchased prior to 03 February 2022, please check the PDS provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased on or from 03 February 2022 please see below.
It's not something anyone wants to talk about, but fatal accidents and illnesses do happen. For those worst case scenarios, your family will need help and support; emotional, logistical and financial.
Our Emergency Assistance Team can help your loved ones get you home – they're available 24/7 for help, they have the expertise to handle some aspects of international bureaucracy such as helping out with the paper work and working with relevant government departments and the policy can help with the associated costs.
The priority of your loved ones will be to bring you home; we’ll be there to help take away the added stress of navigating overseas laws, different languages and formalities.
What’s covered by travel insurance if you die overseas?
If you die overseas as the result of an accident or a sudden and unexpected illness, you may be covered for:
- Bringing your remains back to Australia.
- Local cremation or burial overseas.
- When necessary, reasonable and necessary travel and accomodation costs for your next of kin to travel with your remains.
We also have access to some of the Australian Government's DFAT services, so for countries where the local laws are complex, we can call on some additional support.
Note: In case of death, the death certificate and a medical report must be included with any claim.
What's not covered by travel insurance?
A lot of the exclusions to medical cover do also apply here, so take the time to read the policy. In the event of a fatal illness or injury, if we're not going to cover your medical expenses and you then pass away, there won't be any cover under this part of the policy either.
- Suicide.
- Deaths as a result of drugs or alcohol.
- Any illness or death arising from a metastatic or terminal prognosis that was made prior to the issue of the Certificate of Insurance.
- If an existing condition causes your death (unless otherwise stated in the policy).
- Any costs within your home country once your remains are returned to your next of kin.
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 PDS 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.
How your family or friend can get assistance if you die overseas.
It’s essential that your family or travel buddy get in contact with our Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible, so that our teams can support them from the time you die until your remains have returned home.
To help our Emergency Assistance teams assist them quickly, they'll need the following:
- Your policy number
- Your location
- As many details as possible about the circumstances surrounding your death
So, leave a copy of your policy with your family or friend, just in case they need to use it.
How we help.
Overseas deaths are the most heartbreaking cases to help with. No one is ready to deal with the sudden death of a close relative overseas, let alone having to deal with the complex organisation and unexpected high costs. The World Nomads Emergency Assistance team can coordinate a local burial or bringing home loved ones with trusted partners on the ground, and ensure that families and friends are supported throughout such a difficult time.
Operations Manager.
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
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
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 medicine?
- 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 overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- 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)
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 Trip Cancellation
Learn what's covered if you have booked and paid for your trip and unexpectedly need to cancel.
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Trip Cancellation Travel Insurance: At a Glance
- Covers prepaid, non-refundable travel costs if your trip is cancelled for insured reasons
- May cover cancellation due to sudden illness, injury or death
- Natural disasters, severe weather and strikes may be covered
- Covers cancellation if a travelling companion becomes seriously ill
- May apply if your employer cancels approved leave or makes you redundant
- Benefits depend on your policy plan, country of residence, and cancellation limits
- Claims require evidence like receipts, bookings and cancellation notices
- Always check the PDS for full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions.
- What can World Nomads travel insurance cover if I need to cancel?
- What you need to do if you can’t travel anymore
- What’s not covered by travel insurance?
- Travel tips for Aussies
- FAQs: Trip cancellation cover for Australian travellers
Sometimes travel plans change in the blink of an eye. It could be an unexpected illness or injury to natural disasters or sudden strikes; trip cancellations can happen for many reasons. Having travel insurance cover for trip cancellation may help recover some of your prepaid, non-refundable costs if an insured event ruins your trip.
Here’s how World Nomads travel insurance may help on your next big adventure.
What can World Nomads travel insurance cover if I need to cancel?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your trip due to specific insured events, then you may be covered for up to 14 specific insured events including, sudden illness or injury, or a natural disaster. For example:
- Your sudden death, sudden illness, or serious injury, or the sudden death, sudden illness or serious injury of your close relative requiring hospitalisation
- The sudden death, sudden illness or serious injury of a member of your travelling party
- Your transport is cancelled or delayed because of severe weather, natural disaster, or strike
- You're made redundant or your employer cancels your pre-arranged leave.
If your claim is approved, you may be reimbursed up to policy limits for prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses such as flights, accommodation, tours or activities.
Important: The amount covered for cancellation depends on whether you have purchased the Standard or Explorer Plan.
What you need to do if you can’t travel anymore
If your trip is cancelled, you’ll need to:
- Contact your travel provider and let them know you are cancelling as soon as possible. Try to seek a refund from them first before making a claim.
- You can contact the emergency assistance team for help 24/7.
When lodging a claim:
- You’ll need to submit supporting evidence - for example, booking confirmations, receipts, or cancellation notices from your airline or tour company.
- You can start a claim or contact us via the World Nomads member portal.
Cancellation coverage starts from the date your Certificate of Insurance is issued (or 72 hours after if you buy travel insurance while already overseas). Only events that occur after that date are considered.
What’s not covered by travel insurance?
Our travel insurance plans don’t cover everything. Some of the things we can’t cover you for include:- Cancelling because you changed your plans or no longer wish to travel
- The event was foreseeable and a known event when you purchased your policy
- Not following government travel advice or warnings. To find out the latest government advice go to the Smartraveller website
- Claims relating to existing medical conditions except as described in “Health conditions & your policy."
- Not providing the documentation required to support your claim.
This is not a full list of what's covered and not covered. Terms, conditions, limits, exclusions apply, please read your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) carefully and contact us if you have any questions.
Travel tips for Aussies
- Keep copies of all bookings, receipts, and travel documents
- Your travel insurance cancellation policy must be active before the event occurs
- Contact your airline or tour operator first, as they may offer refunds or credits before you lodge a claim
- Visit gov.au for the latest travel alerts and information
FAQs: Trip cancellation cover for Australian travellers
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for cancellation. You can also find the answers to other questions in our helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team.
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Do I need to provide receipts?
When cancelling or rescheduling your trip you will need to provide evidence of purchases and cancellation/rescheduling. If you can’t provide associated receipts your claim may be denied. Read your PDS to ensure you’re familiar with claim requirements.
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Do both your travel insurance policy plans include trip cancellation cover?
Yes. World Nomads offer two levels of cover, Standard and Explorer, and both offer cover for a range of benefits including pre-trip cancellation.
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Does travel insurance cover booking cancellation?
Our policies offer coverage for non-refundable cancellation expenses for up to 14 insured events.
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Is my travel insurance refundable if I cancel?
If you haven’t started your trip or made a claim, you can cancel your policy for a full refund during the 21-day cooling-off period.
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What happens if I cancel my trip before I leave Australia?
You may be covered for prepaid, non-refundable costs if your cancellation is due to an insured event that happens after your policy is issued.
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Am I covered if my airline cancels my flight?
If the cancellation is due to severe weather, strike or another insured event, you may be reimbursed for unused travel.
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
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
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 medicine?
- 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 overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- 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)
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
