Travel insurance while already abroad
Get covered by World Nomads, even if you're already overseas
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FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying away from home. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
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Is there a waiting period?
Yes, there is a waiting period for the policy and for types of cover. You can find the details in the Policy Wording.
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How long does it take to get a copy of my insurance?
As soon as the payment goes through, it will be emailed to you or in your membership.
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How do I extend my travel insurance if I'm already abroad?
You can extend your Single Trip policy online while already travelling as soon as your policy starts, up until 11.59pm GMT on the end date shown on your Certificate of Insurance. Please check the terms of the Policy Wording to confirm you are eligible.
Already travelling, decided to extend your stay and realised your travel insurance has expired? Or worse… realised you never bought it in the first place?
With World Nomads, if you live in the United Kingdom and you’re 69 years or younger, you can buy a policy online, anytime, from anywhere in the world.
We’ve designed simple and flexible travel insurance so you can buy what you need, when you need it, even while travelling. If you forgot to buy a policy before you started your trip, are outside the UK, or your cover has ended but your trip hasn’t, you can buy a World Nomads policy 24/7 online.
If you buy a policy after leaving home or when already overseas, a waiting period may apply, which means you may have to wait up to 72 hours for full cover to apply, and certain benefits (like pre-trip cancellation) may not be available as you’ve already left home (for trips solely winthin the UK) or boarded your transportation for international trips. Where the insurance is purchased after your trip has commenced, your country of residence will determine the laws, regulations and tax that apply.
Any illness or injury that occurs during the waiting period may be considered a pre-existing medical condition and, as a result, will not be covered. However, no waiting period applies if you're seriously injured as a result of an accident, if it’s witnessed by someone else, after you buy a policy.
Lastly, if you buy a new policy before your current policy expires, you'll have continuous cover. However, as your new policy terms and conditions may differ from your previous one, be sure to read the Policy Wording before you buy, as it will have full details of the cover, limits, conditions, and exclusions.
- Buy while travelling
- Get cover 24/7 online
- Instant confirmation
- Ongoing traveller support
- 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance
Waiting Periods apply
Malaria at Christmas
On the 25th of December I woke up feeling nausea, fever, headache, and lethargy. After two days with the symptoms not ceasing I went to a clinic and was admitted with severe malaria. I stayed in the hospital for two days taking shots for malaria and also saline drip.
A.G. Brazilian Nomad in Zambia
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Come to a sticky end?
- Called to jury duty?
- Been made redundant?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need drugs?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- You or a family member dead?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Luggage lost?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamBuy Travel Insurance Away From Home
If you forgot to buy travel insurance before you left, Canadians can still be covered
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At a glance
- World Nomads offers travel insurance for single trip and annual multi-trip plans for Canadian residents
- You can purchase travel insurance even if your trip has already started (waiting periods, conditions and restrictions may apply)
- You can get a quote from almost anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection
- Coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip delay, lost bags, natural disasters, and more may be included (up to the maximum benefit limits shown in your policy documents)
- How can I purchase travel insurance if I’m already travelling?
- Included in All Plans
- Exclusions
- Maximum Coverage Limits
- How to Make a Travel Insurance Claim
- FAQs
How can I purchase travel insurance if I’m already travelling?
With all the excitement of packing your bags, jumping on a plane, and jetting off to a faraway destination, travel insurance may slip your mind. If you forgot to buy travel insurance before leaving on your trip, you may be asking yourself “Can I buy travel insurance while already travelling?” The answer is yes! If you’ve left home without travel insurance or your plan has run out while you’re still on the road, don’t panic.
World Nomads has travel insurance plans for Canadian residents that you can buy online, anytime, from almost anywhere in the world – all you need is a good internet connection. Head to our website to get a quote. Answer a few simple questions about your trip and follow the prompts that will outline the coverage and benefits for the single trip and annual multi-trip plans that we offer. Make sure to read and accept the terms and conditions (including information on waiting periods, conditions and restrictions that may apply), pay for your insurance, and you’re done. It’s a simple process to buy travel insurance while already travelling, and within just a few minutes you’ll be back to lounging by the pool at your resort.
Excluded
- Pre-existing medical conditions, as outlined in your policy documents
- Incidents related to drug or alcohol use
- Non-emergency treatment that can wait until you return home
- Expenses that are payable under any other source (travel insurance is considered secondary)
- Injuries or sickness that occurs in the 48-hour waiting period if you purchase a policy after you leave your home province
- Situations outside of the limits, terms, and conditions of coverage stated in your policy
Maximum Coverage Limits
| Standard Plan | Explorer Plan | Epic Plan | Annual Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Emergency Medical Expenses: Up to $1,500,000 CAD Trip Interruption: Up to $2,500 CAD Lost or Stolen Bags: Up to $1,000 CAD, per item limit of up to $500 CAD Get a quote |
Emergency Medical: Up to $5,000,000 CAD Trip Interruption: Up to $10,000 CAD Lost or Stolen Bags: Up to $2,000 CAD, per item limit of up to $1,000 CAD Get a quote |
Emergency Medical: Up to $10,000,000 CAD Trip Interruption: Up to $15,000 CAD Lost or Stolen Bags: Up to $5,000 CAD, per item limit of up to $1,500 CAD Get a quote |
Emergency Medical: Up to $5,000,000 CAD Trip Interruption: Up to $10,000 CAD Lost or Stolen Bags: Up to $2,000 CAD, per item limit of up to $1,000 CAD Get a quote |
How to Make a Travel Insurance Claim
Hopefully, you’ll have a smooth vacation and won’t need to use your travel insurance benefits. But even by being overly cautious and planning ahead, unexpected situations such as sickness and injuries can happen. A survey showed that 40% of travellers have experienced medical issues when travelling abroad.
If you have a World Nomads Travel Insurance plan, and experience a sudden, unforeseen circumstance due to a covered risk, you’ll need to contact us as soon as possible and provide certain information that may include:
- Your name and contact information
- Your policy number
- The type of loss, as well as the amount
- The name of your travel suppliers
- The trip dates
- The amount you paid for your trip
You can then file a claim online. Claims can be made through your World Nomads member’s page at: https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-insurance-claims. Depending on the reason for your claim, you’ll need to provide required documentation that may include:
- Receipts and invoices
- Itineraries
- A statement from your attending physician
- Medical bills and reports.
- Written documentation from the travel provider that explains the reason for your loss
- Proof of payment for the trip such as cancelled cheque or credit card statements
- Reports from the police or other authorities.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for buying away from home. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
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Can I buy travel insurance after I’ve already left home?
Yes. With World Nomads, you may be able to buy a travel insurance plan even after your trip has started. As long as you have an internet connection, you can get a quote and purchase coverage online from almost anywhere in the world.
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When does my coverage start if I buy travel insurance after departure?
If your trip has already started, World Nomads can still offer you coverage. You can buy a plan online anytime, from almost anywhere in the world. If you buy a plan after departing from your home province, you won’t be covered for any loss or expense related to any injury or sickness that occurs in the 48-hour period after your departure date (as shown on your policy certificate). Your departure date will be 12.01am local time on the date that you are originally scheduled to start your trip as shown on your policy certificate. Also, after an event has occurred, such as a natural disaster, you can’t be covered for that specific event. New events may still be covered, but if you’ve bought your policy after a storm is named we won’t be able to cover you for losses related to that storm.
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Are there any restrictions if I buy travel insurance after departure?
Yes. If you purchase a plan while already travelling, certain restrictions may apply — such as waiting periods or known events (like if a storm is already coming your way). There is a 48-hour waiting period before you have emergency medical coverage for injury or sickness. There are also pre-existing medical condition exclusions that apply to medical conditions and/or symptoms that existed prior to your policy start date. Always review your plan details to understand what is and isn’t covered before you buy. If you have any questions, contact us and ask.
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Why should I buy travel insurance if I’m already on my trip?
Even if you’ve already left home, travel insurance may help with unexpected events like medical emergencies, stolen gear, or trip interruptions.
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Can I use my travel insurance coverage while travelling within Canada?
Yes. Your travel insurance plan from World Nomads is valid if you are travelling outside of your home province.
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Am I required to have a GHIP if I am travelling?
You must have Government Health Insurance Plan (“GHIP”) coverage in your home province for your entire trip to be eligible for the maximum emergency medical benefit limit. If you don't, your total limit for all emergency medical expenses is limited to $40,000.
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If I’m on a trip and want to stay longer, can I extend my policy?
If you’re having fun and want to stay travelling longer, you may apply for an optional policy extension, as long as you haven’t made a claim and don’t have a reason to make one.
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)
Worldwide 24 hour Emergency Assistance
Wherever you are, we’re there to help!
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Emergency Assistance for New Zealanders
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If it's an emergency, such as a serious injury, sudden illness, an accident or hospitalisation, contact our Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible. Our Emergency Assistance Team are available 24/7, 365 days a year.
From New Zealand & Overseas:
+61 2 8263 0470
+61 2 8292 1470
Within Australia (free call):
1800 611 210
SMS: +61 4 1720 4602
Email: assist@worldnomads.com
Not a kiwi? Find the right Emergency Assistance team:
Be prepared.
So that our Emergency Assistance teams can assist you quickly, please be ready with the following:
- Your policy number
- A contact number for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
- Prescribed medication (if any)
How does my travel insurance policy help me in an emergency?
Learn how your travel insurance policy can assist if you're in an emergency situation by watching this video.Bitten by a tick in Colombia
I was bitten by a tick in Sierra Nevada region on my trip in Colombia, and infected by borrelia. A doctor examined me and I have received treatment for borreliose with antibiotics and probiotics. However, as the brain fog and dizziness persisted even during continuing treatment, the emergency assistance team organised medical repatriation as it is not safe for me to travel with these symptoms.
A.B. Norwegian Nomad in Colombia
Emergency Assistance for U.S. Residents
Wherever you are, we’re there to help!
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For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
Emergency Assistance for U.S. Residents
If you get hurt or sick while on vacation, contact local authorities as soon as you’re able to do so for immediate attention.
If you are currently experiencing an emergency while on your trip, contact the non-insurance 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team at your earliest opportunity. The team may be able to help arrange emergency evacuations, offer translation assistance or get you to a suitable medical facility depending upon your individual situation and the coverage provided by your plan.
Telephone: +1-877-289-0968 (toll free within the US and Canada)
Telephone: +1-954-334-8143 (Collect worldwide)
Email: ops@gga-usa.com
Not from the U.S? Find the right Emergency Assistance team:
Be prepared.
The Emergency Assistance team will want to quickly assist you, so please be ready with the following:
- Your plan number (if you have it on you)
- A contact number for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
- Prescribed medication (if any)
Bitten by a tick in Colombia
I was bitten by a tick in Sierra Nevada region on my trip in Colombia, and infected by borrelia. A doctor examined me and I have received treatment for borreliose with antibiotics and probiotics. However, as the brain fog and dizziness persisted even during continuing treatment, the emergency assistance team organised medical repatriation as it is not safe for me to travel with these symptoms.
A.B. Norwegian Nomad in Colombia.
Does Travel Insurance Cover Dental?
Learn how travel insurance may cover emergency dental treatment abroad.
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For information relating to policies purchased prior to 03 February 2022, please check the PDS provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased on or from 03 February 2022 please see below.
No one likes going to the dentist, and even less when it's not your regular dentist. But teeth can crack and infections can strike, regardless of where you are in the world. A pitted olive that wasn't; a very, very sticky caramel... it's the worst sort of surprise. World Nomads can help you out with emergency dental cover.
What does travel insurance cover for overseas dental?
If something happens, we only offer cover for the immediate relief of sudden and acute onset of pain on healthy teeth and teeth with fillings. We may cover those teeth if you suddenly have:
- A cracked or chipped tooth.
- A dental infection.
- Dental surgery resulting from an accident.
Cover is limited, and we may need to talk to your dentist back home to see what your teeth were like before you left. Just remember, the policy comes with a AUD$100 excess which will be deducted from your claim.
What's not covered
In short, pretty much anything that's not on the list above. Specifically, there are a few straight-up things we don't provide cover for:
- Anything routine, or that can wait until you're home.
- Major dental work such as but not limited to crowns, bridges, dental prostheses.
- Dental expenses incurred while you’re in Australia. This policy doesn't replace private medical insurance or Medicare.
- Getting your teeth straightened.
- Cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening, implants, braces.
- Dental problems you knew about before you bought the policy.
A lot of the time, our cover will be limited to patching the problem, such as a temporary filling, a pain-relieving injection, that sort of thing. The big stuff will have to wait until you get home.
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 PDS in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. If you are unsure about your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.
How to get dental assistance
It’s essential that you get in contact with our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team as soon as possible so that our teams can support you from the time your fall sick of get injured until the time you get home.
So that our 24/7 Emergency Assistance teams can assist you quickly, please be ready with the following:
- Your policy number
- A contact number for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
Tooth ache in Lumbini.
While in Lumbini, Nepal, experienced 2 days of occasional, severe aching pain from a molar on the right upper jaw, brought on by cold drinks or hot food. On the 17th the pain was constant and unrelieved by any medications. After an 8 hour bus ride back to Kathmandu I presented to CIWEC Dental Clinic where after X-ray and evaluation the dentist diagnosed an infected root canal. I was given antibiotics and scheduled an appointment for endodontic surgery in two days time, as the pain was serious and I was planning an extended trek to Everest Base Camp in the coming weeks. On the 19th of October I returned and underwent a successful endodontic treatment in one canal of my tooth and had the hole covered with posterior surface restoration.
K.D. Australian resident in Nepal.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need medicine?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech Trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about overseas dental travel 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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Do I pay upfront or does World Nomads?
You should pay the dental bills yourself then make a claim online once all your treatment is finished.
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What do I need to do if I need a dentist?
Call the emergency assistance team for advice on your dental condition or if you need directions to the nearest or most suitable dentist or medical facility.
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Am I covered for cosmetic dentistry?
No. There's not cover for cosmetic.
Travel Insurance for Delayed Baggage
Learn how travel insurance could help if your luggage misses your flight, how to make a claim, and using your travel insurance.
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At a Glance: Delayed Baggage Travel Insurance
- Delayed baggage cover may reimburse you for essential purchases if your luggage is delayed by more than 12 hours during your trip.
- Essential items can include toiletries, basic clothing, and other necessities while you wait for your bags to arrive.
- Report delayed luggage to your airline immediately and obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) to support any claim.
- Keep all receipts for essential purchases, as you'll need them when submitting a travel insurance claim.
- Delayed baggage cover generally does not apply once you've returned to Australia or for expenses incurred within the first 12 hours of the delay.
- Explorer Plan travellers may be able to hire replacement sporting equipment if their gear is delayed or lost by a carrier for more than 12 hours.
- What does travel insurance cover regarding delayed luggage?
- What is included for delayed baggage?
- What's not covered
- What to do if your luggage is delayed
- A few points to consider if you wish to claim for essential items
- FAQs
So, you've arrived at your destination and spent your first two hours on the ground watching a baggage carousel grow empty without ever coughing up your bags. This happens a lot. It's really annoying. Happily, there's someone to blame. That's the airline.
In every airport, there's a lost luggage counter where you can report your missing items (also go here if your bags have been damaged).
For Aussie travellers, considering travel insurance for delayed baggage means you can handle the setback and still enjoy your trip.
What does travel insurance cover regarding delayed luggage?
If your luggage is delayed by more than 12 hours, our policies offer cover for essential purchases (toothbrushes, deodorant, clean undies, etc.).
There are limits on the amount you can spend. So, before you go shopping for a new wardrobe, check your policy carefully on the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions which may apply before you buy.
If you need to make a claim, you'll also need to fill in all of the documentation required by the carrier and submit this with your receipts.
What is included for delayed baggage?
Delayed baggage travel insurance may reimburse you for essential purchases if your luggage is delayed. This can include:
- Toiletries and basic clothing
- Hire of replacement sporting equipment (Explorer Plan only)
What's not covered
Delayed luggage once you're back home. You've now got access to your full wardrobe, so you shouldn't need anything from your bags. When you're shopping for essential purchases, think Walmart and the chemist, not high street fashion and designer labels.
Expenses incurred within the first 12 hours of your baggage being delayed.
Loss, theft or damage to the extent for which you did not make every reasonable attempt to obtain compensation from the carrier, other service provider or other responsible party.
What to do if your luggage is delayed
1. Report the delay to your carrier immediately
Once you realise your baggage has been delayed, speak with a representative from your carrier (usually your airline) to report the delay. Ask them for a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or another official document. The report should state the reason for the delay as well as the date and time that your luggage is estimated to arrive.
Ask the carrier for some financial assistance to help you buy some everyday items such as toothpaste, deodorant or new underwear while you wait for your bags. If they refuse your request, then ask them to put the reason for their denial in writing to you. You must include this letter or report with your other documentation when submitting your claim for essential items.
2. Obtain receipts for any purchases
If you need to buy a few essentials to make life more comfortable until your bags arrive, then you’ll need to keep copies of your receipts should you wish to claim for these expenses.
Cover for essential items is only offered to travellers whose luggage is delayed for at least 12 hours after their scheduled arrival.
Therefore, only receipts showing a date and time which is at least 12 hours after your scheduled arrival, and before the delivery time of your luggage, will be covered.
3. Obtain a final report
After you get your bags, ask your carrier for another report stating the reason for the delay, the length of the delay, as well as the date and time the luggage was returned to you.
Does my insurance cover my tech?
A few points to consider if you wish to claim for essential items
Before you rush out to your favourite designer’s shop to buy this season’s must-haves, please remember that only reasonably necessary items may be covered under our policies. Some examples could include toiletries, a toothbrush, or new underwear.
These are items to help you stay clean, fresh, and comfortable until your baggage is returned to you.
There is no cover for essential items if your luggage is delayed on your return journey to Australia or expenses incurred within the first 12 hours of your baggage being delayed.
Both our Standard and Explorer plans have different maximum limits of cover. Please read through your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to make sure you’re aware of the limits, benefits and exclusions that relate to your policy.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for delayed baggage. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team
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What supporting documents do you need?
You’ll need a Property Irregularity Report (‘PIR’) from the carrier confirming the delay and any compensation they provided to you or offered to you, your receipts and a copy of your itinerary.
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Is sports equipment covered if delayed?
Our Explorer Plan includes coverage to hire replacement sporting equipment if your sporting equipment is delayed or lost by a carrier for more than 12 hours. Check your PDS for terms, conditions, limits and exclusions.
There may be specific terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that apply depending on what you'll be doing. Of course, always read the full terms, conditions limitations and exclusions in the Product Disclosure Statement you choose so there’ll be no surprises if you need to use it. 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)
Does travel insurance cover terrorism or war?
Find out how we could help if you're caught up in a terror attack.
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At a glance
- Travel insurance may cover emergency medical treatment, evacuation, and medical assistance if you’re affected by an unexpected terrorist incident overseas.
- Most policies do not cover claims related to war, civil unrest, or travel to destinations under a “Do Not Travel” warning.
- Trip cancellations due to fear of terrorism or conflict are generally not covered. Cancellation cover is excluded for threats or acts of terrorism. Our policies also exclude losses arising from a change of mind, disinclination or reluctance to travel.
- Government travel advisories can impact both your safety and your travel insurance cover.
- Before travelling overseas, always check your policy terms and conditions, limits, and exclusions, and whether your destination has changing security risks or travel warnings.
- There is no cover under any section of our policy for a loss arising from any act of war (whether war is declared or not).
- When is it not safe anymore to travel to my chosen destination(s)?
- What travel insurance may cover
- What’s not covered
- How to get help in an emergency
- FAQs
From European city breaks to Middle Eastern stopovers and popular Asian destinations, Australians are making plans to travel overseas more than ever in 2026. But global travel conditions can change quickly.
Terrorism threats, political unrest, regional conflicts, and sudden government travel warnings can disrupt even the best-planned trips.
That’s why it’s important to understand what your travel insurance may and may not cover before you leave Australia. Knowing your cover ahead of time can help you make informed decisions, avoid unexpected costs, and travel with greater confidence if the unexpected happens overseas.
There is no cover under any section of our policy for a loss arising from any act of war (whether war is declared or not)
When is it not safe anymore to travel to my chosen destination(s)?
Your plan will provide cover for your chosen countries and regions of travel unless there’s a ‘Do not travel’ warning issued by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or other official authority and you choose to go there anyway.
Please note that your travel insurance plan will not cover a loss arising from travelling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that is the subject of a ‘Do not travel’ warning.
When you’re covered
You may be covered if:
- You’re injured during an unexpected terrorist attack
- You need urgent medical care overseas
- You require emergency medical evacuation and approved by us
When You’re NOT covered
You’re unlikely to be covered if:
- You cancel your trip due to fear of terrorism or war
- You travel to a high-risk destination against advice
- You purchase travel insurance after an incident occurs
What travel insurance may cover
If a terrorist attack is unexpected, your travel insurance plan may include:
- Emergency medical treatment (hospital, outpatient care, medication)
- Ambulance and medical transport
- Emergency evacuation or repatriation home
- 24/7 emergency assistance support
- Help contacting family and consular services
Important: Cover only applies if the event was unforeseen and you followed government advice. Stay informed with Smartraveller for country-specific alerts.
What’s not covered
Travel insurance does not cover everything in relation to terrorism. Common exclusions include:
- Trip cancellation due to terrorism
- Changing your mind about travelling
- Buying insurance after an event occurs
- Travelling against a “Do Not Travel” warning
- Leaving baggage behind
- There is no cover under any section of our policy for a loss arising from any act of war (whether war is declared or not).
How to get help in an emergency
If you’re caught in an incident:
- Get to a safe location immediately
- Seek medical help if needed
- Contact your insurer’s 24/7 emergency assistance team
Be ready to provide:
- Your policy number
- Your location
- A contact number
- Details of the situation
Travel insurance tip: Keep copies of important documents, such as medical records, passports, birth certificates, and travel itineraries. Always check visa requirements of your intended destination(s) – some countries require you to have at least 6 months validity on your passport.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for terrorism and war. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
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Will travel insurance cover me if I travel to a war zone?
Usually not. World Nomads plans exclude claims related to war, especially if you travel against a “Do Not Travel” warning.
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What happens if war breaks out after I’ve booked my trip?
There is no cover under any section of our policy for a loss arising from any act of war (whether war is declared or not). Contact your airline or providers to see if any refunds are available.
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Can nearby conflicts affect my trip even if my destination is safe?
Conflicts can disrupt flight paths, cause delays, and impact neighbouring countries. In 2026, rerouted flights and airspace closures are becoming more common.
Travel Insurance for Death Overseas
Learn how travel insurance could help your family if you die overseas.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
For information relating to policies purchased prior to 03 February 2022, please check the PDS provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased on or from 03 February 2022 please see below.
It's not something anyone wants to talk about, but fatal accidents and illnesses do happen. For those worst case scenarios, your family will need help and support; emotional, logistical and financial.
Our Emergency Assistance Team can help your loved ones get you home – they're available 24/7 for help, they have the expertise to handle some aspects of international bureaucracy such as helping out with the paper work and working with relevant government departments and the policy can help with the associated costs.
The priority of your loved ones will be to bring you home; we’ll be there to help take away the added stress of navigating overseas laws, different languages and formalities.
What’s covered by travel insurance if you die overseas?
If you die overseas as the result of an accident or a sudden and unexpected illness, you may be covered for:
- Bringing your remains back to Australia.
- Local cremation or burial overseas.
- When necessary, reasonable and necessary travel and accomodation costs for your next of kin to travel with your remains.
We also have access to some of the Australian Government's DFAT services, so for countries where the local laws are complex, we can call on some additional support.
Note: In case of death, the death certificate and a medical report must be included with any claim.
What's not covered by travel insurance?
A lot of the exclusions to medical cover do also apply here, so take the time to read the policy. In the event of a fatal illness or injury, if we're not going to cover your medical expenses and you then pass away, there won't be any cover under this part of the policy either.
- Suicide.
- Deaths as a result of drugs or alcohol.
- Any illness or death arising from a metastatic or terminal prognosis that was made prior to the issue of the Certificate of Insurance.
- If an existing condition causes your death (unless otherwise stated in the policy).
- Any costs within your home country once your remains are returned to your next of kin.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your PDS in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
How your family or friend can get assistance if you die overseas.
It’s essential that your family or travel buddy get in contact with our Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible, so that our teams can support them from the time you die until your remains have returned home.
To help our Emergency Assistance teams assist them quickly, they'll need the following:
- Your policy number
- Your location
- As many details as possible about the circumstances surrounding your death
So, leave a copy of your policy with your family or friend, just in case they need to use it.
How we help.
Overseas deaths are the most heartbreaking cases to help with. No one is ready to deal with the sudden death of a close relative overseas, let alone having to deal with the complex organisation and unexpected high costs. The World Nomads Emergency Assistance team can coordinate a local burial or bringing home loved ones with trusted partners on the ground, and ensure that families and friends are supported throughout such a difficult time.
Operations Manager.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need medicine?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for Stolen or Damaged Baggage
If your gear has been stolen or damaged, here's how we can help.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
- How can travel insurance help if my belongings are stolen or damaged?
- How to report your lost or missing bags and valuables in 4 simple steps
- What’s not covered by travel insurance
- Travel safety tips before you leave Australia
- Ready to get a travel insurance quote?
- Frequently asked questions
Lost, stolen and damaged luggage incidents make up nearly half of all travel insurance claims. World Nomads travel insurance offers coverage for theft, loss, or damage of your bags and personal effects.
How can travel insurance help if my belongings are stolen or damaged?
Your Policy Disclosure Statement (PDS) will have very specific limits, both on the total value of the luggage covered, and on individual items. If there're some items you're bringing that exceed those limits, specify them when you get a travel insurance quote.
We offer cover for the following:
- Stolen or accidentally damaged belongings.
- If your belongings are stolen, lost or accidentally damaged by a common carrier (a commercial airline for example.
- Taken from you during an assault.
- Stolen from your private, locked accommodation and where there's visible evidence of damage and forced entry.
There are of course terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions on how cover applies. For example, we won't cover your electronics or jewellery if you check them into an airline. Read the PDS so there are no surprises.
How to report your lost or missing bags and valuables in 4 simple steps
1. Report it
Your first move should be to report it, ASAP. Who you report it to depends on your circumstances. Here are some of the most common situations:
If your luggage has been lost or stolen on public transport:
- Report the incident to the public transport provider and request written evidence, like a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).
- Gather any relevant tickets, luggage checks, and other documents.
- Confirm how the transport company will compensate you—get it in writing.
If your luggage has been lost or stolen from your airline or accommodation provider
- Report it immediately to the hotel or accommodation provider and request written confirmation of the incident from the carrier or the accommodation provider, along with details of any compensation.
If your luggage has been lost or stolen on a tour or at a public venue (e.g. airport, museum, sports stadium)
- Let your tour operator, venue management, or security know right away. Ask for written confirmation of the loss or theft and details of any compensation offered.
If your situation is not listed get in contact and we can help.
2. Notify the police
File a police report—this step is non-negotiable because your potential insurance claim hinges on it. Head to the nearest police station and get a copy of the report or at least a reference number.
3. Track and block your phone, tablet and credit cards
Contact your provider to block the service and get written confirmation. And don’t forget to call your bank to block any stolen cards ASAP.
If you have an iPhone, try using the Find My iPhone feature. If you have a Samsung, use the Find My Mobile feature to pinpoint your device’s location on a map.
4. Keep all receipts and paperwork
Hold onto every bit of paperwork—receipts for emergency buys, itineraries, booking and cancellation confirmations for any affected travel arrangements. If you don’t do this, we may reduce or reject your claim.
What’s not covered by travel insurance
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything. Common claims we see where there's no cover include:
- Anything you leave behind, walk away from or simply misplace or forget.
- If your credit cards are skimmed.
- Leaving your gear in an unlocked car overnight.
- Leaving your valuables unsecured in a shared hostel room.
Travel safety tips before you leave Australia
- Add a distinctive, trackable security tag with your contact info (minus your home address) to make your luggage easier to spot and recover if it goes missing.
- Be proactive and install tracking apps on your devices before travelling abroad.
- Scan copies of all your documents and store them in your phone before you leave Australia.
- Grab a travel insurance quote here.
Ready to get a travel insurance quote?
If you’re ready to explore our travel insurance plans and optional extras, then visit our Get a Quote page and tell us your travel details.
This is not a full list of what's covered and not covered. There are terms and conditions, limitations and exclusions that apply. For more information check out our FAQ article on baggage cover and personal effects and read your PDS carefully before you buy.
Rooky error.
It doesn't get much more touristy than this. My iPhone 4 was stolen from me while at a Starbucks in Paris. It was on the table I was sitting at. Two girls came up and spoke to me and put a piece of paper in front of me and at this point must have taken the phone. I told them I didn't speak French, they left and by the time I had noticed my phone was missing they were gone.
Australian Nomad in Paris.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need medicine?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for baggage. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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I'm on a gap year, can I claim for my baggage while I'm away?
You can claim whenever you like, while traveling or when you return home.
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What if I don’t have receipts?
You can still lodge a claim. However, the team might depreciate or be unable to process your claim.
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If the airlines loses my gear, what do I need?
You’ll need a Property Irregularity Report (‘PIR’) from the carrier confirming the delay and any compensation they provided to you or offered to you, your receipts and a copy of your itinerary.
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Do my items get depreciated?
Yes they do. However, some policies let you pay an additional premium per item so insure them for the value you bought them (if it's under the limits).
Travel Insurance for Pregnancy
Learn what is and isn't covered by travel insurance if you're pregnant.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
For information relating to policies purchased prior to 03 February 2022, please check the PDS provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased on or from 03 February 2022 please see below.
This shouldn't need saying, but just in case, here it is: Talk to your doctor about your travel plans. Listen to what they say.
Have that conversation before you buy insurance or even book your flights.
While pregnancy is not considered an existing medical condition, there are limits and restrictions on how and when we cover pregnancy, so it's good to be informed before you start planning your trip.
What does travel insurance cover when you're pregnant?
The most important thing to know is this: If you fell pregnant before you bought your insurance or fall pregnant afterwards, cover may be available for a pregnancy related illness that occurs up to the end of the 26 week of your pregnancy. Also, you can’t have a history of any complications with any previous pregnancy.
If you meet the above criteria and suddenly something medical happens to you while you're overseas, being pregnant won't change your cover. When looking at whether you should continue travelling after your illness or injury, our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team will take the pregnancy into account.
What's not covered
Aside from a pregnancy not falling within the above guidelines, we also won't cover any childbirth, antenatal care or newborn care costs, regardless of whether we're covering the pregnancy itself. We won't cover a loss arising from pregnancy-related illness after the 26th week of gestation.
We also won't cover you if your medical practitioner told you not to travel, nor will we cover you for any routine check-ups.
If you're thinking about getting pregnant, please know that we don't cover any costs relating to fertility treatment, either. These restrictions also apply to members of your travelling party and close relatives.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your PDS in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
How to get assistance if you're sick or injured while pregnant.
It’s essential that you get in contact with our emergency assistance teams as soon as possible so that our teams can support you from the time your fall sick or get injured until the time you get home.
So that our Emergency Assistance teams can assist you quickly, please be ready with the following:
- Your policy number
- A contact number for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
Threatened miscarriage
I did a pregnancy test and found it was positive. I went to the doctor and because I had had some bleeding so it was a threatened miscarriage and I had to have an ultrasound and see an obstetrician.
Aussie Nomad.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need medicine?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for pregnancy. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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If I decide to return home during my trip, is there cover for those expenses?
No, there's no cover for change of mind.
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If I fall pregnant before my trip, can I cancel?
The policy doesn’t cover cancellation for change of mind. If you have complications with your pregnancy, World Nomads can offer you cover.
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Do your policies cover pre-existing pregnancy complications?
No. There’s no cover for pre-existing pregnancy complications.
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Do both of your policies cover pregnancy?
Yes, both the Standard and Explorer policies cover pregnancy.