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 14 July 2021 12:00am UTC, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased from 14 July 2021 please see below.
We know that many of our international travelers can’t wait to travel again even though they’re having to take added precautions as coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to disrupt global travel plans. World Nomads wants to help you travel with confidence, so we’ve added some COVID-19 cover to our insurance plans.
All our travel insurance plans purchased from 14 July 2021 include emergency medical and repatriation cover if you get sick with COVID-19 while abroad. Our Explorer plans also offer cover for some COVID-19-related events. Benefit limits, conditions and exclusions apply, and cover varies depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you chose.
World Nomads international travel insurance for some COVID-19 events on our plans
- Our Standard and Explorer plans offer cover for emergency medical assistance if you get sick with COVID-19 overseas. Cover includes medical assistance, repatriation and hospitalization benefits.
- Our Explorer Plan also offers cover for some COVID-19-related events such as cancellation, trip interruption expenses and some quarantine costs if you are diagnosed with COVID-19, 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 COVID-19.
Benefit limits apply and vary between plans. Exclusions also apply for pre-existing medical conditions, as outlined in the policy wording.
| 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 wording for full details or have a look at our Coronavirus Travel Costs 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 due to yourself or a member of your traveling party being diagnosed with COVID-19 by a medical practitioner, or if your close relative back home is hospitalized or dies due to COVID-19, we have provided some tips below, especially if you intend to make a claim. Please follow these simple tips:
- Isolate! And seek the relevant medical attention.
- Contact your doctor as soon as reasonably possible. They will need to certify that due to the COVID-19 diagnosis, you are medically unfit to continue with your original travel plans. Due to exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions (as defined in the policy wording), the symptoms experienced and the diagnosis of COVID-19 must first occur after the policy purchase.
- Don’t delay in the cancellation of your plans to maximize 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 the local advice, including warnings issued by the US Department of State as required by your policy wording - different countries have different rules. What’s okay in your country of residence may not be okay in the countries you plan to visit. While some countries may be more relaxed in their COVID-19 protocols, some 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 wording 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 traveling companion details for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
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.
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 teamWhat's covered for Irish residents
World Nomads travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers, to cover your trip essentials.
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Understand the key parts of World Nomads travel insurance
Bitten by a shark.
I was surfing and was bitten by a shark in Tortuga Bay, Galapagos Is. I was able to walk to the medical center in nearby Puerto Ayora, where I received emergency medical treatment from Dr, Idrovo. The treatment consisted of cleaning the wound, local anaesthetic and 10 stitches. A course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories/ pain-killers was prescribed. A follow-up check 24 hours later (today) revealed no infection.
S.C. British Nomad in the Galapagos Islands.
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 teamUnderstanding Travel Insurance Coverage for COVID-19
How World Nomads' plans cover Americans against COVID-19 while they travel.
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Does my travel insurance cover COVID-19?
World Nomads plans include benefits that support you should you unexpectedly get sick while traveling. Our medical coverage includes benefits for serious illnesses, such as COVID-19, or being placed under strict quarantine by a physician, among other scenarios.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for COVID-19. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can contact us.-
Is COVID-19 covered in my travel insurance plan?
World Nomads travel insurance policies may provide coverage for specified benefits if you are unable to travel due to COVID-19.
These benefits may include emergency medical care, emergency medical evacuation, trip delay and trip interruption coverage if you contract COVID-19 while traveling and a doctor certifies you are too sick to travel.
You may also be eligible for trip cancellation coverage for pre-paid non-refundable travel expenses (such as flights, hotels and excursions) if you, your travel companion, a close family member or business partner are too sick or injured for you to leave on your trip, as certified by a physician.
You may also be eligible for trip cancellation if your host at your scheduled destination is unable to provide accommodation for you due to life-threatening illness, as certified by their doctor, or if they pass away. This can be due to COVID-19 or any other medical issue.
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How can the World Nomad’s Travel Insurance Plan help if I'm concerned about traveling because of COVID-19?
A ‘fear of travel’ is not considered a covered reason for cancelling a trip, or interrupting/delaying it. However, if you are concerned you may want to cancel the trip (for any reason at all), you may want to consider purchasing the optional “cancel for any reason” benefit. This allows you to cancel your plans and be refunded (up to plan limits) for those non-refundable, unused trip costs. This benefit can only be added onto Explorer or Epic plans, and you must purchase it within the time sensitive period.
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If I want to cancel my trip because I’m afraid of exposure to COVID-19, does my travel insurance plan cover that?
The “Cancel for Any Reason” benefit would cover a fear of getting COVID-19, however this benefit is at an additional cost and can only be added to an Explorer or Epic plan during the time sensitive period. If added, you could be eligible for a partial refund of non-refundable costs, depending on the plan you purchased. Note that this benefit must be added within 7 days of purchasing your flights or putting any money down on your trip. The “Trip cancellation” benefit does not cover a fear of travel.
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If I rebook my trip for a later date, will my original travel insurance plan cover the rebooked trip dates?
If you postpone your trip, your current travel insurance plan may extend to your new trip dates provided:
- The new trip dates are no more than 12 months from your original trip dates and no more than 24 months from your original purchase date.
- Additional costs, if required based on the new or postponed trip, will be collected. Plan costs will not be reduced or refunded for coverage for the new or postponed trip.
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What if my flight is delayed or cancelled by the airline?
If your flight is delayed or cancelled, Trip Interruption and Trip Delay benefits may be available. Please check your specific travel protection plan for terms and conditions. Time restrictions may apply. Also, please check with your travel provider to determine your options.
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If I become ill with COVID-19, am I covered?
If you become ill with COVID-19 prior to your departure and after the effective date of your plan, you may be eligible for Trip Cancellation coverage. These claims will require a confirmed diagnosis from a physician with proof of illness that states you are medically unable to travel at the time of departure.
If you become sick with COVID-19 while on your trip, you may be covered for medical costs if you need to see a doctor or get treatment. You could be eligible for Trip Interruption benefits if a doctor confirms you are unfit to continue traveling. Please review your specific plan for the details and limits of such coverage.
Travel insurance for kayaking
Everything Brits need to know about travel insurance for kayaking and rafting
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Travel Insurance for Kayaking and Rafting
Ready to explore the world from a kayak or go rafting in the great outdoors? Whether you’re planning to paddle lakes, beaches and rivers you may need travel insurance for unexpected accidents if you’re already on the water or working out your next kayaking and rafting adventure.
Rafting and Kayaking activities: What am I covered for?
When you get a travel insurance quote for your kayaking or rafting trip, you need to add your kayaking/rafting adventure activity when prompted to. World Nomads plans for British residents cover the following categories of kayaking and rafting:
- Kayaking/canoeing: (inland/coastal waters, grades 1-3 only, Sea kayaking/Sea canoeing)
- White water rafting (grades 1-3): special condition (a)
- Black water rafting (cave tubing) (grades 1-3): special condition (a) and Special Exclusion (iv)
Travel Insurance Tip: for some activities you must be with a professional, qualified and licensed guide, instructor or operator. If you're not sure if the operator you're planning on rafting with is properly licenced ask to see their credentials and if you're still not sure, don't risk it. Not only can it be dangerous rafting with an operator who isn't properly licensed but it can affect your cover for any claims that you may make.
Travel Insurance for British and International River Grades
Whether you’re white water rafting in Alaska, canoeing in the fjords of Norway or kayaking around Patagonia in Chile you’ll need to be aware of international river grades.
International River Grading
- Grade 1: Easy
- Grade 2: Novice
- Grade 3: Intermediate
- Grade 4: Advanced
- Grade 5: Expert
- Grade 6: Extreme and Exploratory Rapids
(Note: We can't insure kayaking or rafting at grades 4 - 6)
The scale is used for various water sports and activities, such as black and white water rafting, river boarding, white-water canoeing, stand up paddle surfing, and whitewater kayaking. When you are about to head down the river or rapids, make sure you know the rating as you wouldn’t want to be up a certain creek without a paddle! For more information you can always research the ‘International River Grading System’.
Please note that different activities may have different levels of cover. You may have to upgrade the policy and sporting level to make sure you’re covered for the type of activity you plan to do. Please read your policy documentation carefully before you buy it.
What’s covered: kayaking, rafting and canoeing
There are a number of different things our travel insurance cover can protect you from while you’re out on the water, or making your way to that next rafting hotspot.
Baggage protection: Have you had your kayak and gear stolen while travelling? Our gear cover may help with replacing belongings that were swiped from under your nose.
Emergency medical: Have things not gone to plan while white water rafting? Maybe the rapids got the better of you? Our emergency medical cover may come to the rescue in the case of an accident or injury.
Evacuation: You’ve managed to find a hidden hotspot for your next canoeing adventure but it’s nowhere near a hospital or medical centre that can help you if you get ill or injured. We have cover that can get you transported to the closest medical facility which may be best for your care, subject to approval from the 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team.
Trip cancellation: Has a sick or injured travelling companion put a stop to your kayaking trip? Your plan may be able to recover the travel expenses.
How to get the most out of your travel insurance
When it comes to any activity, safety should always come first. Your health ─ and your travel insurance cover ─ depends on your responsible behaviour. Follow these tips to stay alert and aware (and to ensure that you won’t invalidate your travel insurance).
- Know where to go. Don’t frequent bodies of water that are known to be dangerous or go kayaking or canoeing near areas with violent rapids, powerful currents, big drops and steep, congested chutes. Where there are warnings, be careful – and heed them.
- Stay in your skill level. It’s not a good idea to hop in a kayak or go white water rafting if you don’t know how to swim. Don’t attempt white water rafting or kayaking at higher difficulty grades if you don’t have the experience.
- Follow the rules. Check for suitable weather conditions before kayaking, canoeing or rafting.
- Look after your equipment. Don’t leave your limited-edition kayak and gear unattended out on a beach, camping site or in public areas unattended or declare your wallet stolen when you forgot it on the airplane. Those ’I spaced out’ moments don’t qualify for cover.
Your cover will vary according to whether you choose a Standard or an Explorer plan. Read your policy for details on maximum benefit limits and exclusion and conditions of your cover.
Rafting and Kayaking: What’s not covered
Here are some other things we don’t cover:
- If you refuse to be repatriated or evacuated
- If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or what we or the 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team advise you to do
- Any expenses that relate to a pre-existing medical condition, as explained in the policy wording
- Expenses that can be recovered from another source
- The policy excess as shown in the policy wording
| What’s covered | What’s not covered |
|---|---|
| Whether you’re kayaking, rafting or canoeing our World Nomads plans may cover: • Trip disruption • Medical emergency expenses • Emergency evacuation/repatriation • Baggage delay • Theft of baggage and personal belongings |
We want to make sure that you are having fun out on the water but don’t overdo it as we won’t cover any incidents related to: • If you kayak, canoe or go rafting while under the influence of alcohol or drugs • No pro sports or athletic competitions. Professional sporting activities aren’t covered by travel insurance • Search and rescue costs • Reckless behaviour • Criminal or illegal acts • Changing your mind about your trip |
This is a summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the plans described. Please refer to the actual plans for complete details of cover and exclusions.
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 team
