Travel Insurance for Sailing Trips
Protect your sailing trip with coverage for Americans, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations and lost bags.
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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.
Whether you're planning to sail the crystal waters of the Galapagos Islands or keep pace with bottlenose dolphins along the Fumba Peninsula in Zanzibar, you're guaranteed an ocean adventure. But whenever you're surrounded by water, you should be prepared for the unexpected.
Along with your boat shoes, boating license, and guide to nautical terminology, it's worth considering bringing travel insurance* along. Having it in your (waterproof) pocket could help if you were to fracture your finger hoisting a sail or lose your wallet to the churning white caps in a squall.
From pre-trip medical support and car rental protection to cancel for any reason coverage, and even pet kenneling benefits if your return trip is delayed, we’ve got your back. Our plans cover inclement weather under certain circumstances (say, a snowstorm cancels your flight or a hurricane wipes out your hotel), including trip cancellation, trip interruption, and trip delay coverage due to a variety of reasons, including natural disasters.
Here’s what you need to know about travel insurance for sailing.
What's covered for sailing?
When you're sailing, you can navigate the storied inlets of the French Riviera or British Virgin Islands, using the wind as your guide. But even as a seasoned sailor, you don't want to be caught up the creek without a paddle (or, in this case, a mast and jib). Here are a few benefits covered in World Nomads plans for inland sailing and coastal waters, from Trinidad and Tobago to coastal Maine:
- Baggage protection: Maybe your backpack slipped off the sopping wet stern, or your windbreaker got stolen right off the port. Our gear coverage can help replace your stuff, up to its actual cash value at the time of the loss.
- Baggage delays: You may be covered for baggage delays of at least 12 hours en route to your destination.
- Emergency medical expenses: Even without wet decks and choppy seas, you could find yourself with a medical emergency, be it an ankle sprain or a collarbone fracture. Our emergency medical expense coverage may help cover everything from the services of a physician to ambulance services and x-rays in the case of an accident or injury at sea or on shore. World Nomads plan holders also have access to the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team... a wonderful thing if you need to translate your medical needs to your non-English-speaking doctor.
- Medical Evacuation: Most of the Earth is covered in water... which means you have plenty of places to sail, but then could easily hit a snag in a far-flung destination. With emergency medical evacuation, you can be transported by air ambulance to get treatment at an appropriate medical facility if medically necessary… big sigh of relief! An emergency evacuation must be ordered by a physician who certifies that the severity of your accidental injury or sickness warrants your emergency evacuation.
- Trip cancellation: Say your health takes a turn for the worse and a physician advises you not to travel, or a hurricane at your destination renders your chartered course and your pre-sail accommodation totally unusable. Trip cancellation may help with the recovery of missed, prepaid, non-refundable trip costs when you cancel for a covered reason.... handy when you're ready to re-book the adventure, be it a sail through the Greek isles or New Zealand's subtropical Bay of Islands where gold sand beaches, marlin fishing and turquoise water awaits.
- Trip interruption: Did an emergency cut your trip short? Trip interruption may cover you.
World Nomads water sports coverage
Besides sailing, World Nomads covers over 250 other sports, activities and experiences, including on island and coastal waters, such as: parasailing, hydro foiling, water skiing, kiteboarding, scuba diving, jet skiing and more.
The coverage and the maximum benefit limits of your specific activity depends on which plan you buy. The list of covered sports and activities should help you decide on whether to buy a Standard, Explorer, Epic or Annual plan, as they have different levels of coverage. You can't upgrade your coverage after you purchase a plan, so it's important to get this right on the first go.
Are you traveling long-term? Setting sail repeatedly throughout the year? You can buy always more travel insurance when abroad (waiting periods may apply) even if you don't have a return ticket. World Nomads plans offer coverage for up to 180 days at a time with the Standard, Explorer, and Epic plans. And if you plan to take numerous trips during the year, then the Annual Multi-Trip plan could be best for you, with a maximum trip length of 45 days.
What's not covered for sailing?
Not every day is smooth sailing, but if you check the weather forecast, you can avoid some choppy waters. The same is true for travel insurance: if you know what's excluded beforehand, you'll be better equipped to navigate any unexpected losses. And sorry, we may not be able to cover you for:
- Negligent behavior (i.e., under the influence of drugs or alcohol, even Caribbean sunset cocktails).
- Racing and/or professional sailing.
- Boat rental damage or loss.
- Search-and-rescue missions.
- Any losses related to non-compliance with a license, contract or permit.
- Losses that come from knowingly exposing yourself to needless risk.
- Fraudulent and criminal acts.
- Sports equipment such as scuba or snorkel gear if it’s damaged while in-use.
- Expenses that can be recovered from another source, such as your carrier or primary health insurer.
- If you travel against medical advice.
- Any pre-existing medical condition, unless you purchased your plan within the time-sensitive period and have a waiver.
- Unattended baggage, sporting equipment or personal items.
Get a quote 24/7
With World Nomads, you can buy travel insurance before you go or when you're already traveling, anytime, anywhere, 24-hours a day. Fill out a quick form and get an instant quote.
*All information we provided here is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the plans described. Please carefully read your state specific plan documents for a full description of coverage. Travel insurance is included as part of your travel protection plan which contains both insurance benefits and non-insurance assistance services. Material included on this page does not represent, nor is it specific to, United States Fire Insurance Company or travel insurance benefits provided on United States Fire Insurance Company's travel protection plans.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 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?
- Work emergency?
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
- 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)
Travel Insurance when sailing
Don’t let an accident take the wind out of your sails.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
When you’re sailing, you can navigate the storied inlets of the French Riviera or British Virgin Islands, using the wind as your guide.
Along with your boat shoes, boating license and guide to nautical terminology, it’s worth considering bringing travel insurance onboard. Having it in your (waterproof) pocket can help if you were to fracture your finger hoisting a sail or lose your wallet to the churning white caps in a squall.
- What’s covered for sailing?
- World Nomads water sports coverage
- What’s not covered for sailing?
- Frequently asked questions
What’s covered for sailing?
Even as a seasoned sailor, you don’t want to be caught up the creek without a paddle (or, in this case, a mast and jib). Here are a few eventualities typically covered in World Nomads plans for inland sailing and coastal waters:
Emergency medical
Even without wet decks and choppy seas, you could find yourself with a medical emergency, be it an ankle sprain or a collarbone fracture. Our coverage may help cover everything from the services of a physician to ambulance services and x-rays in the case of an accident or injury at sea or on shore. World Nomads policy holders also have access to 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team... a wonderful thing if you need to translate your medical needs to your kind, but non-English-speaking doctor.
Evacuation
Most of our earth is covered in water... which means you have plenty of places to sail but could easily hit a snag in a far-flung destination. Subject to approval of 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team, your World Nomads policy can transport you by air ambulance to get treatment at an appropriate medical facility if medically necessary.
Baggage protection
Maybe your backpack slipped off the sopping wet stern, or your windbreaker got stolen right off the port. Our gear coverage can help replace your stuff, up to its actual cash value at the time of the loss.
Trip cancellation
Say a physician advises you to not to travel until your health improves, or a hurricane at your destination renders your chartered course and your pre-sail accommodation totally unusable, you may be able to recoup your pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses... handy when you’re ready to re-book the adventure.
World Nomads water sports coverage
Besides sailing, World Nomads covers other activities on island and coastal waters, such as:
- Yachting
- Parasailing
- Sailboarding
- Cruising
- Catamaran sailing
- Hydro foiling
- Hydrospeeding
- Water skiing
- Barefoot water skiing
- Deep Water soloing
- Kiteboarding (on land or water)
- Kayaking
- Sea Kayaking
- Wakeboarding
- Wake skating
- Scuba diving
Your coverage depends on your Country of Residence, and certain conditions may apply for coverage to be available. An additional premium may also apply. Check out the sports, activities and adventures covered by World Nomads for more details.
What’s not covered?
Not every day is smooth sailing, but if you check the weather forecast, you can avoid some choppy waters. The same is true for travel insurance: if you know what’s excluded beforehand, you’ll be better equipped to navigate any unexpected losses. And sorry, we may not be able to cover you for:
- Sailing beyond the allowed distance from a safe haven or shore, as specified in your policy
- Racing and/or professional sailing
- Boat rental damage or loss
- Search-and-rescue missions
- Extreme sport sailing
- Losses that come from knowingly exposing yourself to needless risk
- Fraudulent and criminal acts
- Any claims resulting in the violation of local laws
- Any losses related to non-compliance with a license, contract or permit
- Sports equipment such as scuba, snorkel and scuba gear if it’s damaged while in-use
In addition to life jackets, floatation devices and other safety gear, be sure to BYO sunscreen. For more travel info, read our Explore, Travel Safety, and Responsible Travel articles.
Get a quote for your next sailing trip
Fill out the form below and navigate your way to the right travel insurance for your next boating adventure.
Got questions? We’re here to help. Get in touch and we can help get you set sail with peace of mind.
Frequently asked questions
Should I consider insurance to sail while overseas?
Without the right cover, you could be setting sail for disaster. Consider choosing travel insurance that covers you for all the water-based adventures you plan to enjoy overseas, even sailing. Securing travel insurance specifically for sailing means you and your vessel will be protected for a wide variety of unforeseen disasters. Check your country’s policy wording for details on what’s covered.
Which destinations am I covered for when sailing?
Depending on your Country of Residence and the policy you choose, your boating in your desired destination could be just a gust of wind away. Check your country’s policy wording to see if your preferred destination is covered for sailing trips.
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance. Featuring coverage for more than 150 activities, you can get a quote, claim, or extend your policy online at www.worldnomads.com. All the information we provide about travel insurance is a brief summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions of the travel insurance plans described. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.
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 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?
- Work emergency?
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
- 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)
Travel Insurance for France
From the museums of Paris to the vineyards of Bordeaux, here’s how World Nomads travel insurance could help Americans in France.
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As featured in:
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.
- Do I need travel insurance for France?
- Travel insurance for activities in France
- Travel insurance for medical emergencies in France
- Travel insurance for lost bags in France
- Travel insurance for stolen items in France
- Travel insurance for canceled, interrupted, or delayed trips to France
- Tips for traveling to France from the United States
Home to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Palace of Versailles, there’s plenty to see and do in France for American sightseers.
If you want to see medieval fairytale villages and prehistoric caves, you’ll enjoy getting outside of the city with a visit to the Pyrenees mountains. Meanwhile, water lovers can flock to the French Riviera, and foodies can make the trek to Lyon, which has earned the title of gastronomic capital of France.
While a trip to France is definitely a tres bien experience, there are some things to be aware of. Our nomads have dealt with currency conversion confusion, delayed flights, and pickpockets on the Metro. We encourage you to check out our team’s travel tips for France before leaving the US so you can be prepared—and look into travel insurance* for France to help you travel with peace of mind.
Do I need travel insurance for France?
For the most part, you can spend your days promenading along the River Seine or swooshing down the slopes of Mont Blanc without any incident. But if you twist your ankle or take a tumble on the slopes, you may then realize that travel insurance for France would have been a good idea.
With any overseas travel, there are going to be some things you can’t plan for - like canceled trips, natural disasters, medical emergencies, and delayed baggage. Because of these situations, travel insurance for France may be something you consider. There are four plans to choose from. When you get a quote, compare the options to determine the best international travel insurance for your needs.
Travel insurance for activities in France
The Tour de France has made the country famous as a cycling destination. Even if you’re not competing, you can still explore France on two wheels and check out amazing cycling routes along the Seine or in Corsica. If you’re more interested in exploring France on four wheels, you may be interested in a safari tour to see the flamingos in Camargue. You may even want to leave land and set sail on the blue waters of the Bay of Cannes.
World Nomads covers more than 250 activities for Americans traveling to France including cycling, sailing, and safari tours. It's best to have an idea of your planned activities and adventures before you get a quote for travel insurance for France.
Different plans cover different activities so this will help you choose the best coverage for your trip. For example, bikepacking in Provence is covered under all plans, including the Standard Plan. However, if you’re hoping to go cliff jumping in Calanques National Park near Marseille, you may want to choose the Explorer or Epic Plan.
Travel insurance for medical emergencies in France
If there’s an avalanche when you’re skiing in the French Alps and you get hurt, you may not know where to go for help. With travel insurance for France, you’ll have access to the 24/7 emergency assistance team and they can help refer you to a place that offers the level of care that you need.
Your international travel insurance for France could also offer evacuation coverage if you need to be transported to another place to get care. If your attending physician (and the 24/7 emergency assistance team) determines that it’s best for you to go home to the United States to get medical treatment, the repatriation coverage that is included in your plan may cover the costs to get you there.
If you have an emergency and need to make a claim, call and report your emergency as soon as it happens, or as soon as you’re able. Also remember to save all paperwork and receipts for any unexpected medical expenses.
To streamline your experience seeking medical treatment in France, sign up for FootprintID. This non-insurance service is part of all plans and is a portable personal health record where your documents, prescriptions, test results, and emergency contacts are accessible in one place anywhere in the world. Whether you need to refill a prescription or deal with a more serious injury, FootprintID expedites the process.
Travel insurance for lost bags in France
What happens if you make it to Nice but your bags didn’t? If the airline loses your bag for 12 consecutive hours or more, you could be reimbursed for a change of clothes and toiletries until you and your bag are reunited.
If that reunion never happens, you could be reimbursed for your lost bags and belongings with your travel insurance for France. The first step is to contact the airline to try and track down your bag.
The second step is to contact Blue Ribbon Bags, which is a non-insurance service that comes with all plans and will track and expedite the return of your undelivered baggage by the airline. Make sure to have the file reference or record locator number and Property Irregularity Report on hand when you call Blue Ribbon Bags so you can file a lost luggage claim.
While baggage coverage is included in your travel insurance for France, know there are plan limits. If you’ve purchased expensive items in France, you may want to take it on the plane as carry on instead of checking it. If you have any questions, contact us and we can help explain what is covered.
Travel insurance for stolen items in France
Pickpocketing is something to watch out for when you travel to France - especially in crowded areas like Paris. One nomad found herself the victim of a pickpocketing scam in France in which her bag and sunglasses were stolen. While her travel insurance for France covered reimbursement for the stolen items, she would have preferred that this never happened to her in the first place.
This particular scam started with simple flattery from a stranger that distracted her. Check out our tips for avoiding travel scams in France before your trip, and always be aware of your surroundings. If anything does happen, make sure you contact the police and file a report. You’ll need that if you make a claim.
Make sure to do your part to keep your belongings safe too. If you’re in Bordeaux, overindulge at your wine tasting, and forget your purse at the vineyard, you won’t be covered.
Travel insurance for canceled, interrupted, or delayed trips to France
What happens if you get sick a few days before leaving for France? If your doctor tells you not to travel to France at that time, you could be forced to cancel your trip. Your travel insurance for France includes cancellation coverage and you could be reimbursed for those non-refundable flights, hotels, and activities you paid for in advance.
Sometimes situations happen that can disrupt your plans once you’re already in France. In the home of the French Revolution, strikes, protests, and demonstrations happen fairly frequently. If your train travel is affected by a strike and you can’t get from Paris to Reims, you may miss the hot air balloon ride you had booked. If you prepaid for your balloon ride and it’s non-refundable or transferable, your travel insurance for France may reimburse you for that excursion.
The Explorer and Epic Plans also cover various travel inconveniences you may encounter in France if you purchased during the time sensitive period. For example, if you planned a winter ski vacation to Chamonix, but the resort’s facilities are closed due to a lack of snow for at least a day, you may also get some compensation.
Tips for traveling to France from the United States
France is a beautiful country, and we’ve made many memories there. We think you’ll love it too. Any international travel comes with things to watch out for. Just be aware of your surroundings, and make sure to check out our travel safety tips for France before you go.
You’ll also want to check out the US government’s safety warnings for France before leaving the United States. Weather, safety, and political situations can change quickly, and this is where they list their up-to-date warnings on any advisories that may exist at that time.
If you purchase travel insurance for France, it’s a good idea to save the 24/7 Emergency Assistance phone number and your plan number in your cell phone so you don’t have to search for that if an emergency happens.
Finally, learn a few French words and phrases—it will go a long way. Bon voyage and make some wonderful memories!
*All information we provided here is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the plans described. Please carefully read your state specific plan documents for a full description of coverage. Travel insurance is included as part of your travel protection plan which contains both insurance benefits and non-insurance assistance services. Material included on this page does not represent, nor is it specific to, United States Fire Insurance Company or travel insurance benefits provided on United States Fire Insurance Company’s travel protection plans.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)
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 volunteering
Don't let your good deeds go uncovered.
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As featured in:
Whether you have specific skills to offer or you’re in search of meaningful connections, volunteering abroad can be a life changing experience. While out in the world helping others, make sure you also look after yourself and consider buying travel insurance before you pack your bags.
World Nomads travel insurance can cover you when participating in a range of round-the-world volunteer activities and vacations, from summer teaching programs to clean water projects. Whatever the cause, we’re strong supporters of paying it forward and giving back.
What's covered
Want to step out into the world and volunteer your time? Depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you’ve selected, World Nomads travel insurance may provide cover for:
- Trip cancellation
- Trip interruption
- Emergency medical care
- Emergency evacuation and repatriation
- Trip delay
- Baggage and personal belongings cover
- Extend or buy more cover while traveling
- Cover for some Coronavirus-related events
Traveler tip 1: if you intend to work or study, you must have the appropriate visa to work or study under the local laws of the country you’re visiting.
Travel insurance cover on our Standard and Explorer plans
At World Nomads, we do our best to support volunteers, whether it's protecting endangered turtle hatching grounds or teaching school children in an under resourced village.
Before you take off on your next volunteer adventure, consider packing travel insurance that provides cover for the things you plan to do.
Volunteer activities our Standard Plan may cover include:
- Hospitality or work at bars.
- Farming such as fruit picking, WWOOFing or other manual labor.
- Wildlife or animal care.
- Environmental or conservation work.
- Au pair, nanny or other volunteer childcare.
- Teaching.
- Retail work such as shop assistant or store manager role.
- Office or clerical work.
Volunteer activities our Explorer Plan may cover include:
- Undertakings in construction or renovation projects, including painting, using power tools, operating machinery, or roadwork.
- NGO support and disaster relief.
- Medical and health care work (health education, medical services, medical practitioner).
Note: you can upgrade your cover for a range of other activities and experiences and manual work if you select the activities (listed as Level 2 and 3) and pay any required additional premium at the time you buy your policy.
If you feel unsure about whether your volunteer activity is covered, you can get in touch with our Customer Service team and they will be able to assist you.
Am I covered for Coronavirus-related events?
While volunteer work is rewarding, getting sick while overseas can be costly in more ways than one, especially with Coronavirus still causing major issues worldwide. The cover you will have under our Standard and Explorer plans will depend on your Country of Residence. They include:
- Standard and Explorer plans: offer cover for emergency medical assistance if you get sick with Coronavirus (COVID-19) overseas (excluding pre-existing medical conditions, as defined in the policy wording) – cover includes medical assistance, repatriation, and hospitalization.
- Explorer Plan: additionally, offers cover for some Coronavirus-related events including but not limited to cancellation, trip interruption expenses and some quarantine costs, as well as additional cover 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.
To find out what cover applies to you, read our Coronavirus cover article, which has all of the details, including benefit limits, terms and conditions, and exclusions.
Traveler tip 2: do your research well in advance of your trip around vaccines needed for your intended destination. Make sure you follow government, health department, and World Health Organization preventative and precautionary measures, including any relevant vaccinations, hygiene, or social distancing guidelines. Please refer to who.int for further information.
What’s not covered?
Some volunteer activities may not be covered as they’re just too risky for us to cover. This includes volunteer work that includes:
- Taking part in activities such as base jumping, wingsuit flying, cliff diving, martial arts competitions, motor sports, and piloting an aircraft among others.
- Going on dangerous expeditions; mountaineering expeditions or expeditions to inaccessible regions of the Arctic, Antarctica, or Greenland, unless approved by us.
- Crewing of a vessel more than 60 miles (96.5km) from a protected body of water.
- Work as a guide where ropes or other specialist climbing equipment is required.
- Work offshore or underground, including in caves.
- Work operating machinery or heavy/industrial equipment.
- Work at height without proper safety equipment.
- Working with dangerous animals, for example, hippopotami, crocodiles, alligators, sharks, elephants, bears, big cats, and deadly snakes.
Traveler tip 3: you must have the appropriate skills and training and hold the necessary licences and/or certificates for the work you undertake. You should only work from ground level up to two metres above ground, as the risk of injury is significantly increased when working at heights greater than two metres.
If you’re not sure about coverage, contact us and we’ll help you.
If haven't yet chosen a volunteer program, you can find inspiration in the following articles:
- Questions to Ask Before You Volunteer Abroad
- Tips on Choosing an Ethical Volunteer Program
- Voluntourism 101: How to Get Started
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.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about overseas medical insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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Will travel insurance cover me for countries other than those listed on my policy?
That depends on your policy and your country of residence. You may have to put in a request with the customer service team for a country to be added to your policy.
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Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed for accidents or unexpected illnesses overseas. They don't stand in place of primary medical insurance or your home health system.
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Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what happened. If it’s an emergency situation, where medical evacuation is required, World Nomads can cover these costs upfront (provided the incident is covered as per the policy wording and you get pre-approval from the Emergency Assistance team). You must contact World Nomads 24/7 Emergency Assistance if you have a medical emergency.
Travel insurance when off the grid
Ready to unplug and cleanse mind, body, and spirit? We have coverage for unexpected setbacks while you’re getting away from it all.
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Whether off-grid for you means a remote mountain escape in Jasper National Park, a solo road trip in New Zealand, or experiencing rural village life by volunteering, it can be a great way to escape the stresses of daily life.
While you’re planning your off-grid getaway, don’t forget to consider travel insurance which could save you a few headaches and avoid some nasty hospital and medical bills.
Why should I consider travel insurance?
Going off-grid can be the ultimate form of social distancing if you’re seeking solitude, avoiding large crowds, and wanting to unplug from digital devices. Both our Standard and Explorer plans may offer coverage (up to the benefit limits) if:
- You get injured and need medical transport or evacuation back to your home country.
- You need coverage for your bags and valuables in case they’ve been lost, stolen or damaged. Keep the paperwork and receipts for your gear.
- You’ve already left home and forgot to buy travel insurance.
- You need coverage for emergency medical expenses and hospitalization costs for sudden injury or illness.
- You’re looking for coverage for a range of adventure sports, activities, and experiences.
Don’t forget to read the policy wording as all plans are different and coverage will depend on your Country of Residence. Never assume you’ll be covered in every situation, as benefit limits, terms and conditions and exclusions may apply. If you are still unsure about what you are covered for then contact us.
Want to know more about what is and isn’t covered by travel insurance? Read your policy and contact us if you have any questions.
Rental coverage when your road trip comes to a halt
Some World Nomads plans offer damage collision waiver coverage depending on your Country of Residence and your choice of insurance plan, a Standard or an Explorer. Make sure you read your policy and check the amount of coverage your plan provides.
Remember, if you leave your gear in your rental vehicle unattended or unsecured, and it gets stolen, our plans are unlikely to cover it.
If you get into a car accident, rental car travel insurance may help by covering damage to your vehicle and the cost of repairs, as well as charges imposed by the rental company, depending on your circumstances.
Make sure you report the damage to the local authorities and the rental car company as soon as possible. Also, it almost goes without saying, damage due to irresponsible behaviour will not be covered.
Depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you purchase there may be coverage for vehicle rentals. However, coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage. If you’re not sure if something is covered, get in touch.
Coverage for adventure seekers and sports lovers
Off-grid getaways are a great way to engage in some high-energy activities.
Maybe abseiling or a thrilling zip line is your thing? Before you pull the rip cord on that adventure, check that your insurance covers your activity. Depending on your Country of Residence, you may need to include an insurance upgrade when you buy to have coverage for some activities. If you don’t have the right level of coverage, you won’t be able to claim if something goes wrong.
Many policies cover white water rafting and kayaking, for example, but Class 6, Extreme and Exploratory Rapids aren’t covered. Read the policy wording carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport option for your trip. Your policy may have conditions and exclusions.
Coverage for unexpected medical emergencies
Our plans cover emergency medical expenses when you're sick or injured. If your injuries are more serious than minor bumps and scratches, you may need to get to a hospital. Our plans include emergency evacuation coverage for ambulances or transfers to an appropriate medical facility. Be sure to check the maximum benefit amount and terms of coverage in your policy.
Go REALLY off the grid, but check your destinations
OK, so there’s off-grid and then there’s really off the grid. Just be aware that the more remote your destination, the more chance there is that these may not be covered. Make sure to check if your off-the-grid destination(s) are covered by our policies.
Some destinations may not be covered due to violence, terrorism or possibly due to being designated a COVID hotspot. Additionally, there will also be certain activities, including volunteering activities, that we cannot cover as they are too dangerous.
Our policies aren’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 that there are no surprises if you need to use it. If you’re not sure if something is covered get in touch.
What does my travel insurance cover?
Travel insurance tip 4: Depending on your Country of Residence, if you decide to travel to a country where there’s already been a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning or its equivalent put in place by your government, then your policy will be cancelled. Governments can issue or change travel warnings without notice, so always check with World Nomads before you pay anything towards your trip.
True Claims Stories
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)
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
