Photo © lechatnoir / Getty

Travel insurance when visiting France

What you should consider when buying travel insurance for a trip to France.

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Steeped in cultural icons, surrounded by some of the world’s best mountains and coastlines, and with more delicious cheese and wine than you could ever want, it’s understandable why France is high on many traveler’s itineraries.

Aerial view of Paris streets and Eiffel Tower at sunset
Aerial view of Paris streets and Eiffel Tower at sunset. Photo credit: Getty images / Alexander Spatari

What’s Covered

Here are some of the highlights of our coverage, depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you’ve selected:

  • Emergency overseas medical: if you become sick or injured during your trip your policy may cover you for overseas medical expenses, up to the policy limits and when agreed by us.
  • Travel delays/interruption: if your trip is interrupted due to an insured event. Depending on your country of residence and which plan you’ve selected you may be covered for your non-refundable, pre-paid transport and accommodation expenses.
  • Baggage and valuables: if your belongings are stolen, accidentally damaged, delayed or lost. Terms and conditions apply. You’ll need official reports, supporting documentation and copies of your receipts if you need to make a claim.
  • Adventure activities and sportswe cover more than 150 activities, sports and experiences across land, water and sky. Check before you buy that your adventure is covered and find out what policy upgrade options may be available.
  • Cover for some Coronavirus-related events: to find out what cover applies to you, read our What’s Covered for Coronavirus article, which has all of the details, including benefit limits, terms and conditions, and exclusions.

Please note that all travel insurance plans are different, and cover will vary, depending on what's happened, your Country of Residence, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy.

Should I consider travel insurance for a trip to France?

France is Europe’s 3rd largest country, which means there is a lot to see and do. In most cases, traveling goes without a hitch, but considering the right travel insurance for you can take the added stress out of travel if things don’t go to plan.

Families

Traveling as a family can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and France is the perfect destination with plenty of family-friendly locations and activities on offer. Our policies can help cover for medical emergency, pregnancy and Covid, trip interruption and also provide 24/7 worldwide emergency assistance. Cover includes two adults and up to eight dependents on one policy.

Multi-Destination Trips

If you’re making your way around Europe and visiting France on your travels, travel insurance can cover medical emergencies and evacuation, stolen items, and more than 150 adventures, sports and activities including volunteering and working.

If you’re traveling to multiple European countries, World Nomads can help with:

  • Translation and interpreting services in case of an emergency
  • Physician referrals
  • Pre-trip information

Summer Adventures

You can enjoy your summer travels around France knowing our policies may cover you for a range of activities including hiking trips around the mountains of Chamonix, road trips in Provence, kayaking & rafting and even sailing the Cote D’Azur.

We offer two plans depending on your country of residence – Standard and Explorer. Each policy provides different levels of coverage depending on what you need:

  • The Standard Plan covers a range of benefits and has lower coverage limits.
  • The Explorer plan covers all the benefits of the Standard plan, with larger coverage limits, more benefits.

Simply specify all the activities you have planned for your trip when you get your quote, as you can’t add them afterwards. Terms and conditions apply, check your Policy Wording for details or contact us.

Winter Travel

From taking the family ice-skating on the rink at Champs-Elysees, to hunting for black truffles in the snow-dusted forests of Perigord, or sipping hot chocolate in between snowboard sessions in the French Alps, our travel insurance can cover you for more than 150 adventures, snow and winter sports activities, medical emergencies and even extended stays if you are enjoying your winter escape to France too much.

French Riviera
The French Riviera. Photo credit: Getty images / Pierre Longnus

What to look out for when traveling around France

  • Keep an eye on your gear 24/7: It’s very important that you NEVER leave your valuables out of sight. You should also make copies of all key documents you’ll be traveling with — passport, ID, travel insurance, receipts, vouchers, addresses, transportation tickets — and keep them separate from the originals while abroad so you’ll have backups and proof of purchase if anything happens.
  • Baggage theft or loss: if you’re on a road trip and your rental car gets broken into, or your airline loses your bags, you may be able to claim to replace the item or claim for essential clothing and toiletries while you wait for your bag to be returned.
  • Rental car coverage and road safety – France is the perfect place for a road trip, with so many different regions to explore. Available on our Explorer plan, we may cover your rental vehicle insurance excess, or the cost of repairing the rental vehicle if you’re involved in a motor accident or your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen.
  • Pickpockets: Whilst France is amongst the safest countries to travel to there is always the chance that you might end up being pickpocketed in a tourist hotspot. If your items are stolen travel insurance could help replace them.

What’s not covered

Our policies aren’t designed to cover everything and there are some important general exclusions you should be aware of, including:

  • Pre-existing medical conditions – see the Policy Wording for details.
  • Traveling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that is subject to a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning issued by the U.S. Department of State (see travel.state.gov).
  • Unattended baggage or personal items, including any items left in a locked car overnight.
  • If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or what we or the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team advise you to do.
  • Participation in a sport or activity where you fail to adhere to the terms of coverage for listed sports or activities.
  • Being intoxicated by alcohol or drugs.

Note: be sure to read the Policy Wording, terms, conditions and General Exclusions for other scenarios and expenses we don’t cover so there’ll be no surprises if you need to use your cover.

The River Seine walkway
The River Seine walkway. Photo credit: Getty images / James O'Neil

Tips for traveling in France

  • Always check the Visa requirements – depending on your Country of Residence you may require a Visa to visit France or any of the other Schengen countries.
  • Pack light – especialy if you’ll be traveling around France using public transport.
  • Book attraction tickets in advance – if you know your plans then consider booking ahead for popular tourist sites such as the Eiffel Tower, Palace of Versailles and the Louvre as tickets can sell out and some attractions require pre-booking.

This is not a full list of what's covered and what's not; please check your Policy Wording for a full list of terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply to your specific plan. If you are unsure of your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.

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)
*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
Photo © Lumina/IStock

Travel Insurance Cover for COVID-19 Related Events

Find out what cover is provided if  Coronavirus (COVID-19) affects your travel plans 

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For information relating to policies purchased prior to 18 May 2022, please check the Policy Document provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased on or from 18 May 2022 please see below.

We know Kiwi travellers can’t wait to travel again which is why we’ve added some Coronavirus (COVID-19) specific cover to our insurance plans, to help make it clear what COVID-19 related events our travellers may have coverage for. All our travel insurance plans include emergency medical and repatriation cover if you get sick with Coronavirus while abroad. Our Explorer plans also offer cover for some Coronavirus-related events with the Coronavirus travel costs benefit a new feature.

World Nomads travel insurance for Coronavirus and our plans

  • Standard and Explorer plans: Offer cover for emergency medical assistance if you get sick with Coronavirus (COVID-19) overseas – cover includes medical assistance, repatriation and hospitalisation benefits.
  • Explorer Plan: Offers cover for some Coronavirus related events such as cancellation, trip interruption expenses and some quarantine costs, as well as additional benefits for healthcare workers, residential care workers and law enforcement officers who have their pre-arranged leave cancelled by their employer due to Coronavirus.

Benefit limits apply and vary between plans.

Benefit Standard  Explorer 

Emergency medical expenses overseas

Yes

Yes

Medical repatriation/ evacuation (including funeral expenses or repatriation of your remains if the worst-case scenario happens)

Yes

Yes

Coronavirus Travel Costs
Note: This section has its own benefit limits which apply. Check your Policy Document for full details or read our Help article which has all of the details, including benefit limits, conditions and exclusions.

NA

Yes


What do I do if I get COVID-19 before or during my trip?

If you need to cancel or cut short your trip because you or a member of your travelling party is diagnosed with COVID-19 by a medical practitioner, or if your close relative in New Zealand is hospitalised or dies due to Coronavirus, these tips may be helpful, especially if you intend to make a claim.

  • Contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible – they can help direct you to local medical facilities if needed and help you understand your options.
  • Isolate! And seek the relevant medical attention.
  • If you haven’t left home yet and might need to cancel your trip – make sure you’ve got medical evidence of your diagnosis. This can include certification from your doctor that due to the COVID-19 diagnosis you are medically unfit to continue with your original travel plans, or an official PCR test. The diagnosis of Coronavirus must be made after your policy was purchased.
  • Don’t delay in the cancellation of your plans to maximise the opportunity of refunds from your providers.
  • Always keep receipts for any trip payments you make and, wherever possible, request written reports from providers or local authorities.
  • Follow New Zealand government and local advice – different countries have different rules. What’s okay in New Zealand may not be okay in the countries you visit. While some countries may be more relaxed in their COVID-19 protocols, others may be very strict in who they allow to enter.

Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything, so make sure you’re careful with your planning and you read the Policy Document to make sure you understand what’s included and what’s not, as well as the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions. If you have any questions get in touch.

How to get medical assistance 

Contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Teams as soon as possible, so they can support you from the time you fall sick or get injured, until the time you get home.  

When you call please have ready:  

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

FAQ

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

  • Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
    Our international policies can offer cover for emergency overseas medical expenses and medical evacuation and repatriation following a serious injury or sudden illness; this includes coronavirus, subject to all policy terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. However, if the plan you already purchased doesn’t include the benefit section ‘Coronavirus Travel Costs’ (which offers some cover for eight specific coronavirus-related events), contact us for assistance. We are not able to change the plan issued after purchase, but, provided you have not used your original policy, and do not need to make any claim, we may be able to assist with issuing a replacement policy and providing you with a refund of your original premium. It is important to remember that this would be a new policy, subject to the policy terms conditions and pricing in effect at the date it is issued and would not offer cover for any event that has already occurred.
  • What do I do if my test hasn’t come back in time, and I need to cancel my trip?
    If you need to cancel or rearrange your travel arrangements, even at the last minute, don’t delay in speaking with your airline or other travel providers to minimise any potential cancellation costs or fees.  If you booked through a travel agent, they may be able to assist you with this, too.  If you do need to make a claim, the cover available will depend on your individual circumstances, as well as the plan you have purchased. For us to assess if cover can apply, you’ll need to submit a claim along with all supporting documentation. Remember, if you are required to take a test prior to travel, it is important to allow sufficient time for results to come back.
  • Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
    Cover may be available if you are unfit to travel due to contracting COVID-19, depending on the plan you have purchased, and the facts of your claim - check the policy you have purchased and if it has Coronavirus Travel Costs cover. We assess all claims on a case-by-case basis. Speak with your travel providers, you may be able to cancel or change your arrangements at no or minimal cost. If you booked through a travel agent, they may be able to assist you with this, too.  Please note, if you’re already travelling and need to make changes to a flight change or your accommodation, even at the last minute, don’t delay in speaking with your airline or provider.  If you can’t continue with your planned arrangements due to a positive diagnosis, simply not showing up could mean you forfeit your booking or incur additional fees when you may have been able to move your dates or times at no or minimal cost. If you booked through a travel agent, they may be able to assist you with this, too.
  • Do I need medical proof of my positive COVID-19 result if I need to cancel my trip?
    Yes. You will need to provide documentation to support the circumstances of your claim. We understand that the type of documentation you can provide may vary and assess every claim on a case-by-case basis. You should submit as much information as you’re able to along with your claim, this will help us to assess your claim in a timely manner and reduce the possibility that we may need to ask you for further information. Information you supply may include: - PCR Test demonstrating that at the time you were due to travel, you had an active case of COVID-19; - Proof you were subject to mandatory isolation at the time you were due to travel due to a registered RAT (Rapid Antigen Test) result; - Letter from medical practitioner confirming you are medically unfit to travel due to COVID; and - Don’t forget to contact your travel service providers as well, as you’ll also need to demonstrate that you have requested to refund or reschedule your arrangements, and what your out of pocket costs are. Remember, not all of our plans cover pre-trip cancellation for COVID-19. 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 Document in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered.

Bag snatched in Latvia.

It was my final day in Riga, Latvia. In my small bag I keep all my valuables, because hostels can't always be reliable with safekeeping. It contained my new GoPro, Iphone, digital camera, laptop and hard drive, plus my emergency money (200 euros). I planned on using my cameras and computer for editing later that afternoon. The coast was amazing and, as it got late, I decided to take the train back to Riga city. As I was getting off the train, down the vertical steep steps, I had my bag snatched off my shoulder. In seconds, the doors closed and the train pulled off. Telling authorities on the platforms immediately, they could not assist and referred me straight to the police. Feeling helpless, I went to the police where I was kept for hours, because of English barriers and translations of documents. I walked out just after midnight with my report. A day trip I won't forget soon.
C.E. Australian in Latvia.

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
Photo © Getty/freemixer

Travel insurance when rock climbing

Be prepared for your next rock climb with flexible travel insurance coverage.

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Strapped into your harness, ready to ascend the craggy cliffs of El Capitan or perhaps the limestone routes in Thailand? UK climbers are no strangers to adventure, scaling heights that test every muscle and nerve. But while you're plotting your route up these epic rock faces, don't overlook the essentials for those less thrilling parts of your climbing journey – one of those items could just be travel insurance. Whether it's a twisted ankle or a weather-worn delay, World Nomads could turn out to be the safety rope you never anticipated needing!

What's covered?

World Nomads offers coverage across two insurance policies (Standard and Explorer) for four different rock climbing activities:

  • Rock climbing (indoor) – Level 1, covered under all plans
  • Rock climbing (outdoor / traditional) – Level 2
  • Rock climbing (bouldering) – Level 2
  • Rock climbing (sport climbing/bolted) – Level 2
  • Free climbing / mountaineering – Level 4

If a climb does go wrong, here are some of the ways travel insurance could help:

  • Trip Disruption: you’re covered if there's a death in the family, you're called up for jury duty or the UK Government's Travel Advisory issues a Do Not Travel warning after you've been issued with your Certificate of Insurance (Explorer cover only). Please note events must be unexpected and unforeseen. The Explorer Plan covers cancellations up to £5,000, while the Standard Plan covers up to £3,000. These figures also apply if you are forced to cut your trip short.
  • Activities cover: travel and adventure go hand-in-hand, that's why our policies cover more than 150+ sports, experiences, and activities. While hiking and football are considered less dangerous, outdoor rock climbing requires an insurance upgrade and an additional premium.
  • Extended stays: if you are scheduled to head home but have found another incredible climbing location you can't pass up, we allow an extension of your cover right up until your Single Trip policy expires at 11:59pm GMT on your Certificate of Insurance end date. The maximum duration of a policy is 365 days from the start date.
  • Baggage and personal belongings: Setting your sights on the iconic El Capitan in Yosemite National Park for your next climbing adventure? Be mindful, popular destinations can sometimes lead to unexpected luggage delays or losses. With our travel insurance, whether it’s the Standard or Explorer plan, you're protected. If your baggage is delayed for more than 24 hours, we cover the cost of essential items. And if your prized climbing gear is lost or stolen, we’re here to help cover replacement costs. For high-value gear, consider upgrading for coverage up to £750 per item on the Explorer Plan and £400 per item on the Standard Plan, with maximum upgrade limits of £2,250 and £1,200 respectively.
  • Emergency medical and evacuation cover: if you suffer a fall or are injured during a climb and require medical assistance or evacuation, we may be able to help. The Standard Plan offers cover of up to £5,000,000 for emergency medical expenses and medical repatriation, and £10,000,000 on the Explorer Plan. Exclusions, and in some cases excesses, do apply.

Make sure that you've selected the right travel insurance plan for your specific needs. Get a quote online anytime, anywhere.

Travellers tip: if your climbing gear is stolen, it’s imperative you get on the front foot by reporting it to the authorities and obtaining a police report. Always keep copies or originals of any receipts in case you need to make a claim for stolen gear and valuables.

Why do I need to consider travel insurance when rock climbing?

We all know that British adrenaline-seekers are daring, but most know there are always risks. Rock climbers may be confronted with falling rocks, the weather may change suddenly, and gear failure can cause severe injury.

Having travel insurance can also help take some of the stress out if you end up in hospital with unexpected medical costs from a broken leg or bangs and scrapes. Importantly travel insurance offers coverage for those ‘worst possible case' scenarios when you need to be repatriated to the UK to recover.

Please be aware that if you need to make a claim at any point of your trip you must prove you acted responsibly, and used the recommended safety clothing and equipment. Special exclusions and conditions apply – see the Policy Wording for details.

Travel insurance tipcheck what vaccinations you need to get before travelling to any foreign country. You can ask your doctor about this. You should also make sure you pack and use any necessary insect repellents, as many diseases can be contracted by mosquitoes, tsetse flies, lice, and other insect bites.

What to look out for on your next rock climbing adventure

Gear up for your next rock-climbing adventure by paying close attention to both the thrill and the risks involved. Whether you're scaling indoor walls or venturing onto remote crags, here’s a few tips for a safe and successful climb:

  • Before you ascend, compare the route's difficulty with your experience. Remember, biting off more than you can climb might leave you hanging! 
  • Lovers of crags, beware! Ticks fancy rock climbers, and not in a good way. Post-climb, do a tick check to avoid unwanted souvenirs like Lyme Disease.
  • Safety starts with your equipment. Give your gear a thorough pre and post-climb check to ensure everything is in top condition.
  • Check in with your doctor to ensure you're in peak shape to tackle those peaks. Climbing demands more than just courage – your body needs to be up for the challenge as much as your mind!
  • Inform a local assistance company and your family of your rock-climbing location and trekking route and policy details. Just in case.

Travellers tip: make sure you refer to your policy wording before leaving, as we don’t offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.

What's not covered?

While there are several situations we can cover you for, there are also some we just won't cover. These include, but are not limited to:

  • World Nomads does not offer coverage for free soloing – so make sure you keep those ropes firmly attached!
  • Travel against medical advice or neglect to adhere to World Health Organization or UK Government-issued warnings prior to departure.
  • Pre-existing medical conditions as outlined in your policy.
  • Any remote search or rescue operations to remove you from a life-threatening situation. Professional competitive rock climbing.
  • You act irresponsibly or recklessly and injure yourself or others in the process.
  • Expenses you incur after you return to the UK.

Rock climbing comes with its fair share of gnarly moments, which is why it’s imperative you deep dive into your insurance inclusions (and exclusions) before hitting the rockface. This is not a full list of what's covered and what’s not; please check your Policy Wording for a full list of terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply to your specific plan. If you are unsure of your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.

True Claims Stories

  • Never travel without insurance. This was the first time I ever purchased travel insurance and I am so glad I did. A few days into my trip to Spain I twisted my foot heading down to the metro. Thanks to World Nomads I was able to get medical attention in Spain and since, as luck would have it, I had a fracture that required surgery, they got me a flight home the next day. Filing a claim was surprisingly easy and when the claim was finally processed, I was reimbursed for all of my expenses including things like the extra week in the hotel I didn't get to take advantage of.
    L.D.
    U.S. resident in Spain
  • I recently had a serious injury traveling on my own & the team was amazing. Being confused with a brain injury they took care of everything. Claiming was no problem, they were on the phone constantly to see if all was OK. I can't recommend them enough. Absolutely fantastic & l will always travel with World Nomads Insurance. Thanks guys for getting me home safely.
    A.B.
    Australian in Thailand
  • I was bitten by a monkey at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur. I went to a nearby clinic and they gave me a rabies shot, antibiotics to take for 4 days, pain medicine, and anti-inflammatory medicine.
    T.R.
    Canadian in Malaysia

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?
  • 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 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
  • Luggage lost?
  • Airline lost your gear?
  • 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 buying travel insurance for rock clumbing. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.

Photo © Getty/freemixer

Travel Insurance for Rock Climbing

Be prepared for your next rock climb with flexible travel insurance coverage.

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

Climbing the walls may be a popular global colloquialism, but for Irish travellers the phrase is often exactly as it sounds. Whether eyeing off a challenging indoor facility or preparing to descend Morocco's Todra Gorge, research is imperative. Make sure you get a handle on the conditions, pack a map and some courage. Oh, and don't forget insurance, as fun as climbing is, it can be risky.

What's covered?

Whether harnessing a new skill or climbing like a boss, World Nomads has cover (up to the policy limits) for the following:

  • Trip cancellation cover: if there’s a death in the family, you're called up for jury duty or Ireland's Travel Advisory issues a warning against; All or all but essential travel after you’ve been issued your Certificate of Insurance (Explorer plan only) and up to 7 days before the certified departure of your trip. Please note events must be unexpected and unforeseen.
  • Activities cover: travel and adventure go hand-in-hand, that’s why our policies cover more than 150 activities, sports, and experiences. While hiking and swimming are considered less dangerous, rock climbing requires an insurance upgrade and an additional premium.
  • Extended stays: if you are scheduled to head home but have found another incredible climbing location you can’t pass up, we allow an extension of your cover (Single Trip policy only) right up until your policy expires at 11:59pm IST/GMT on your Certificate of Insurance end date. The maximum duration of a Single Trip policy is 365 days from the start date, including extensions.
  • Baggage delays and personal belongings: we cover baggage delays that stretch beyond 24 hours (terms and conditions apply). If belongings such as phones, headphones or cameras are lost or stolen, and they are deemed to have been reasonably and responsibly secured out of plain sight, you can make a claim.
  • Emergency medical and evacuation cover: if you suffer a fall or are injured during a climb and require medical assistance or evacuation, we may be able to help. Conditions, exclusions and excesses, do apply.
  • Cover for some Coronavirus (COVID-19) related events: to find out more about our cover for COVID-19 related events, including benefit limits and exclusions, read our Coronavirus cover article.

Why do I need to consider travel insurance when rock climbing?

We all know that Irish adrenaline seekers are daring, but most know there are always risks. Rock climbers may be confronted with falling rocks, the weather may change suddenly, and gear failure can cause severe injury.

Travel insurance can help take some of the stress out if you end up in hospital with unexpected medical costs from a broken leg or bangs and scrapes. Importantly travel insurance offers coverage for those ‘worst possible case’ scenarios when you need to be repatriated to Ireland to recover.

Please be aware that if you need to make a claim at any point of your trip you must prove you acted responsibly, used the recommended safety clothing and equipment, and were guided by a professional, qualified, and licensed guide, instructor or operator. Special exclusions and conditions apply - see the Policy Wording for details.

What to look out for on your next rock climbing adventure

Preparation and planning are key when activities such as rock climbing are in the mix. Whether tackling an indoor course or if you prefer to belay down a rocky mountain in Canada, it's important that you’re up to the challenge and well versed on the conditions, have the level of fitness required, and that you don’t have any niggling injuries that may be aggravated while climbing.

You may want to consider what you'd do if your bag or climbing gear are stolen, your connection is delayed, and you miss a climb you’d already booked and paid for months ago. Even worse, you could injure yourself a week out from your trip and need to cancel. Travel insurance can lessen the blows, and depending on your circumstances, we've got cover to suit you.

The following tips can help you maximise your safety and validity of cover.

  • Inform a local assistance company and your family of your rock climbing location and trekking route and policy details.
  • If you require any medical treatment during your trip while outside of Ireland, you first need to contact your Private Medical Insurance (PMI) provider (if applicable) and follow their emergency medical procedures and claims procedures. Where your PMI provider cannot provide assistance, please contact our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance Team before incurring medical costs.
  • Check which countries your rock climbing trip passes through to ensure your policy covers you for that region.
  • Make sure that you’ve selected the right travel insurance plan for your specific needs. Get a quote online anytime, anywhere.

Choose a plan to suit your specific needs

World Nomads offers two levels of cover, Standard and Explorer, and what is right for one person may not suit another. When it comes to rock climbing, a Level 2 activity(except rock climbing indoor, which is Level 1), consider our higher level of cover (Explorer) for an additional premium.

Our Standard Plan includes a range of benefits including overseas medical, baggage cover, trip cancellation and certain adventure activities, while the Explorer Plan has all the benefits of the Standard Plan and a few extras, but it’s more expensive. Choose the right cover for you and do note that once cover is purchased for your activities it can’t be changed.

What's not covered?

While there are several situations we can cover you for, there are also some we are unable to cover. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Travel against medical advice or neglect to adhere to the Irish Government issued warnings prior to departure.
  • Pre-existing medical conditions as outlined in your policy.
  • Search and rescue costs.
  • Professional competitive rock climbing.
  • You act recklessly, maliciously or illegally and injure yourself or others in the process.
  • Expenses you incur after you return to your home in Ireland.

This is not a full list of what's covered and what's not; please check your Policy Wording for a full list of terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply to your specific plan. If you are unsure of your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.

True Claims Stories

  • Never travel without insurance. This was the first time I ever purchased travel insurance and I am so glad I did. A few days into my trip to Spain I twisted my foot heading down to the metro. Thanks to World Nomads I was able to get medical attention in Spain and since, as luck would have it, I had a fracture that required surgery, they got me a flight home the next day. Filing a claim was surprisingly easy and when the claim was finally processed, I was reimbursed for all of my expenses including things like the extra week in the hotel I didn't get to take advantage of.
    L.D.
    U.S. resident in Spain
  • I recently had a serious injury traveling on my own & the team was amazing. Being confused with a brain injury they took care of everything. Claiming was no problem, they were on the phone constantly to see if all was OK. I can't recommend them enough. Absolutely fantastic & l will always travel with World Nomads Insurance. Thanks guys for getting me home safely.
    A.B.
    Australian in Thailand
  • I was bitten by a monkey at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur. I went to a nearby clinic and they gave me a rabies shot, antibiotics to take for 4 days, pain medicine, and anti-inflammatory medicine.
    T.R.
    Canadian in Malaysia

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?
  • 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 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
  • Luggage lost?
  • Airline lost your gear?
  • 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