Photo © Andresr/IStock

What to do if you fall suddenly ill

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

1. Seek medical attention

If you’re traveling and suddenly fall ill, the steps below can help you get the care that you need and help you understand what’s needed to make a claim.

If you suddenly fall ill at any time during your trip, go to the nearest medical centre or hospital. If you don’t know where the nearest doctor or hospital is you can contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team, who can direct you where to go. You’ll need to tell them your policy number, your medical concern and your current location.

Once you have sought medical attention, contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team again and update them on your situation. If you’re admitted to hospital, our Emergency Assistance Team will get in contact with the hospital admissions department regarding payment and care arrangements.

2. Get any reports in writing

In order to submit a claim on your policy you will need to provide copies of all reports relating to your illness. Types of reports that you may need to obtain include:

  • Emergency medical transport report (if you are taken to hospital by ambulance or helicopter)
  • Treating doctor’s report stating the date you fell ill, the diagnosis and prognosis, as well as the cause of your illness
  • Hospital admission report stating the dates you were admitted and discharged from hospital
  • Other medical reports such as lab reports and specialist’s reports
  • Any correspondence from airline, hotel or railway companies confirming cancellations of any accommodation or journeys that you had paid for.

3. Retain all your receipts

If you wish to claim for any expenses that you incur due to falling ill on your holiday, then you’ll need to provide your receipts. While it’s always necessary to keep receipts for your medical expenses, make sure that you keep any other receipts from your holiday that can help substantiate your claim. Examples of receipts that you should keep include:

  • All hospital and doctor’s receipts
  • Receipts for medications that you may have purchased
  • Pathology receipts
  • Hotel, airline, railway, bus company and/or restaurant receipts

4. Cover for some Coronavirus-related events during your holiday

If you or one of your traveling partners contracts COVID-19 during your holiday and require medical treatment you may be covered, depending on your Country of Residence.

If you need to cancel your travel plans because you or one of your traveling party is diagnosed with COVID-19, you may be able to claim for any non-refundable expenses that you incur. This benefit is only available on our Explorer Plans, depending on your Country of Residence.

To support your claim, you’ll need to obtain:

  • Treating doctor’s report or medical certificate stating the Coronavirus diagnosis.
  • Pathology reports or official health statements indicating a positive COVID-19 result for you or anyone in your travelling party.
  • Any claims for non-refundable expenses will need to be supported by copies of your receipts.

To find out what cover applies to you, read our What’s Covered for Coronavirus article, which has all of the details, including benefit limits, conditions and exclusions. 

5. Need to know more?

Depending on what’s happened, your Country of Residence, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy cover can vary. Your Policy Wording will always have the full details of what you’re covered for.

If you have any further questions about what’s covered and not covered, please contact us.

This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your Policy Wording 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.

Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you

Trip Cancellation

Been working hard for your trip?

We'll work hard to protect it.

Trip Protection
  • Unexpectedly hospitalised?
  • Travel buddy unfit to travel?
  • Close relative suddenly dies?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Expenses

Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?

Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.

Emergency Medical Insurance
  • Need meds quick?
  • Accidentally injured?
  • Suddenly sick?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Transportation

Know where the nearest hospital is?

Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.

Evacuation and Repatriation
  • Banged up abroad?
  • Need a hospital urgently?
  • Medivac home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Passport or tech stolen?
  • Airline lost your gear?
  • Bags delayed?

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team
Photo © Jarana Creatives/Getty

Travel insurance when visiting Portugal

Learn more about World Nomads travel insurance for your travel across Portugal.

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

If you’re planning a holiday to Portugal to experience the historic city centres of Lisbon and Porto, pristine beaches like Praia da Rocha in Portimao, wine tours in the Douro Valley, majestic castles in The Alentejo region and culinary experiences throughout this impressive European country, it’s a smart move to buy a travel insurance policy from World Nomads to protect your trip investment. And don’t forget about your health and your baggage. World Nomads plans offer out-of-country emergency medical coverage and baggage insurance.

Your World Nomads policy may include coverage for:

SRua Garrett at night
Rua Garrett at night, Lisbon, Portgual. Photo credit: Getty Images / Renaud Visage

What should you look for in a travel insurance policy for a trip to Portugal?

An emergency situation affecting your travel plans could spell disaster for you and your pocketbook. What would happen if you or an immediate family member suddenly became sick, and you had to cancel your trip? What would you do if a pickpocket swipes your phone while you’re enjoying the sights and sounds of old town Sintra? Travel insurance is designed to cover losses resulting from these types of unforeseeable and emergency circumstances.

A travel insurance plan that includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage can help protect your travel investment and should also provide cover for your baggage and personal effects and emergency medical cover in case you become sick or injured while on your trip. Travel insurance does not cover everything so make sure you read your policy to ensure it meets your needs.

A World Nomads policy can help provide you with:

Trip cancellation and interruption coverage

It’s common to have to put down deposits on lodging, tours, excursions, and transportation because so many Canadian travellers visit Portugal. Travel insurance may protect your non-refundable and prepaid outlays should you need to cancel your trip because of a covered reason listed in your policy, like a sick parent.

Lost, stolen or delayed baggage coverage

World Nomads Standard and Explorer Plans offer cover for loss, theft or damage to baggage and personal belongings and sporting equipment. The policy limit will depend on the policy you choose to purchase. Upon arriving to Porto from Toronto to start your trip, if your luggage doesn’t arrive at the airport, it will be upsetting. However, our assistance services team can help you with emergency travel problems including luggage tracing. And your travel insurance policy may provide reimbursement for the replacement of necessary personal effects if your baggage is delayed by your airline or ground carrier for 12 hours or more while you are on your trip.

World Nomads travel insurance may also provide reimbursement towards the cost to replace lost or damaged baggage and personal belongings, including lost or damaged sporting equipment. Your personal belongings also may be covered if stolen while travelling in Portugal. For example, if you’re on a city tour in Lisbon, and your watch is swiped in a crowded shopping area, you may be reimbursed for this loss.

When you realize your baggage or belongings have been delayed, lost or stolen, get a report from your airline, tour operator or local police. You will need this report when you file a claim. Hold on to any related receipts. Keep in mind there could be a waiting period before your benefits kick in. Be sure to read your travel insurance policy as it will outline exclusions, per item limits and how depreciation may impact your reimbursement.

To be best protected, keep your personal belongings near you at all times. Store valuables like credit cards and travel documents in a money belt or cross-body bag, and don’t draw attention by wearing expensive jewellery. You have a duty of care to protect your belongings. For instance, if you leave your cell phone in a washroom while drinking in excess in Lisbon, your travel insurance probably won’t cover this type of loss.

Lagos beach in Algarve, Portugal
Lagos beach in Algarve, Portugal. Photo credit: Getty Images / Carol Yepes

Overseas emergency medical coverage

When in Portugal, having overseas medical insurance is a good idea in case you become sick or get injured. It’s important to understand that Canada and Portugal do not have reciprocal healthcare agreements. Out-of-country medical treatment can be expensive, so buying overseas emergency medical insurance for travel to Portugal is recommended. World Nomad’s travel insurance plans include emergency medical coverage for injury and sickness. Coverage may include such things as the cost of a visit to a local doctor, hospital expenses, ambulance transportation and emergency evacuation and repatriation if recommended by your treating physician. So if you cut your foot on a beach in Praia de Tavira, Algarve, the emergency medical coverage in your World Nomads travel insurance policy may cover your medical expenses.

For information on COVID-related coverage, read our Travel Insurance & Covid-19 article.

24/7 Emergency Assistance

Handling a medical emergency is unsettling, but with a World Nomads travel insurance policy, you’re not alone. Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team may help you to identify appropriate medical care, act as a liaison with medical providers, and assist with arrangements including upfront payment of medical care if deemed necessary. We can also assist with translation services.

Elevador da Bica funicular in Lisbon, Portugal
Elevador da Bica funicular in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo credit: Getty Images / Alexander Spatari

Coverage for sports and recreational activities in Portugal

If you’re headed to Lagos to kayak, or you’re planning a guided bicycle tour in the Alentejo region, World Nomads offers travel insurance coverage for 150+ activities and sports. List your planned activities when you purchase your policy. You’ll have the option to upgrade your policy for more adventurous pursuits. Reach out to us if you need help with policy choices, we’re happy to assist.

This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. It is important you read and understand your policy as it contains benefits, conditions, exclusions and pre-existing condition exclusions. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions, just ask us.

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 stolen?
  • Airline lost your gear?
  • Bags delayed?

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team
Photo © Warren Gold Swain/IStock

You’re hurt in an accident

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

1. Safety first

Following the accident make sure that everyone is safe.

If you’re in car accident, for example, this may involve turning your hazard lights on, moving to a safe location, and, if driveable, moving the vehicle to a safe spot that doesn’t block traffic. Check for any injuries. Be aware that not all injuries can be seen.

If it's an emergency situation, contact the local emergency services first, then contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team as soon as you can.

Once you’re able to contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team, please be ready with the following:

  • Your policy number
  • A contact number for where you are now
  • The nature of your problem
  • Your location.

2. Report the accident

If you’re hurt in an accident, you must make every effort to report the incident to the relevant local authority (e.g., police, hotel manager, other travel service provider) as soon as possible. Be sure to get a copy of written evidence to support any claims.

If you need immediate help at the scene of the accident, contact the local emergency services. Be ready to give the emergency dispatcher the following information:

  • Who is involved? The dispatcher may ask for your name and phone number in case they need to get in contact with you later.
  • What happened? Tell the dispatcher as much as you can about the emergency.
  • Where are you located? Give as much information as you can such as the city, road name, road number and local surroundings.

3. Seek medical attention

Even if you do not appear to have any injuries, it is still a good idea to seek medical attention as some injuries cannot be seen. Medical treatment can help identify any potential injuries and may also put your mind at ease.

Seeking medical treatment will also result in official medical documentation, which may be necessary for any claims on your policy.

4. Get it in writing

To make a claim on your policy you will require supporting documentation. So, while it may be the last thing on your mind at the time, try to get copies of documents that will support your claim before you leave the scene or medical facility such as:

  • Doctor or other medical practitioner’s report, confirming what happened and the nature of your injury
  • Hospital Admission report if you’re admitted to hospital
  • Ambulance and Medical evacuation reports (if relevant)
  • Police report (if they were involved)
  • Take pictures of the accident scene and your injuries if you can
  • Any other relevant documentation related to the accident.

5. Keep your receipts

If you pay for any medical treatment costs or other out-of-pocket expenses relating to the accident, including that of changed travelled plans, it is important to keep all original receipts and other relevant documents as these will be needed to make a claim.

6. Contact us as soon as possible

If you’ve had an accident, you must notify our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team as soon as reasonably possible.

You can contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team on +353 21 237 8009 or +353 21 237 8003.

The team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and can offer the following assistance:

  • arranging medical transport,
  • Helping with multi-lingual support
  • setting up direct payments to medical facilities
  • giving support to you and your family.

7. Need to know more?

If you have any questions about what's covered and not covered, the claims process, or if you’re involved in an accident, feel free to contact us.

Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you

Trip Cancellation

Been working hard for your trip?

We'll work hard to protect it.

Trip Protection
  • Unexpectedly hospitalised?
  • Travel buddy unfit to travel?
  • Close relative suddenly dies?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Expenses

Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?

Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.

Emergency Medical Insurance
  • Need meds quick?
  • Accidentally injured?
  • Suddenly sick?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Transportation

Know where the nearest hospital is?

Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.

Evacuation and Repatriation
  • Banged up abroad?
  • Need a hospital urgently?
  • Medivac home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Passport or tech stolen?
  • Airline lost your gear?
  • Bags delayed?

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team
Photo © Maskot/Getty

Travel and positive community impact

How travel insurance can help have a positive impact on communities.

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

Travel can open our minds and teach us about destinations often far removed from our own. Just like you, as a team of global adventurers, the World Nomads team knows that as thrilling as a vacation abroad can be, our choices, if they are considered, can influence more than just ourselves.

How does World Nomads travel insurance help communities abroad?

As well as travel insurance, World Nomads offers travelers the opportunity to help fund community development projects via micro donations through the Footprints Network.

When purchasing a policy with us, you can choose to add a small donation to the price, with 100 percent of the funds raised going directly to more than 240 reputable charities and NGOs, including Save the Children, The Fred Hollows Foundation and SURFAID, to name just a few.

Since launching the initiative, the World Nomads Footprints program has raised AUD$5.8million, thanks to the generosity of over 1 million travelers.

Each of the projects we support has a focus on ending poverty, protecting the planet and/or making a global shift toward sustainability and resilience, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Your travel insurance can help fund many projects

By purchasing travel insurance, you can help support global communities through the World Nomads Footprints program in the following areas:

  • Community development
  • Wildlife protection
  • Women's safety initiatives
  • Global health projects

To contribute, simply get a travel insurance quote for your trip. When you get a travel insurance quote, you have the option to make a micro donation. Then all you need to do is enjoy your travels knowing you are making a difference. You can also keep in touch with us so you can see what project you have helped to fund.

Why should I consider travel insurance for my next holiday?*

You wouldn’t go on a vacation without taking your passport, right? You wouldn’t get very far. The same goes for travel insurance; it’s something you should consider when getting ready to go on a holiday overseas.

We all know that as organized as you might be, not everything always goes to plan when you’re venturing abroad – items get lost in transit, flights can be canceled and delayed, and injuries and illness can occur.

A travel insurance plan may be able to help, and if you’re a seasoned traveler you’ll know that not only is it inconvenient to have to deal with any of the above, these hiccups can prove costly, especially in another country.

At World Nomads, we offer different levels of cover depending on your country of residence and on the plan and options you select. It’s important you consider exactly what you’ll be doing, where you’ll be going, and what type of vacation you’re planning before choosing a plan, as there are differences.

* Travel insurance isn't designed to cover everything. Full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions do apply, so be sure to read your full policy wording to avoid surprises. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

Travel Insurance

Simple and flexible travel insurance

You can buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world. With 150+ adventure activities covered and 24/7 emergency assistance.

Get a quote

How you can be a responsible traveler?

If you are traveling soon and unsure what you can do to give back to the planet, here are just some ways you can make a difference:

  • Social enterprise: while on your travels, seek out a social enterprise that assists the local community, for example, in Zambia the markets at Victoria Falls sell locally made goods, the money you spend goes back into the local community.
  • Ethical eating: try to eat seasonal, local, organic wholefoods based around local traditions rather than ‘Western-style’. Ethical tours should also include plant-based meal options to encourage planet-friendly eating.
  • Small groups: small group tours, with an average of 10 people, help us travel more responsibly. By interacting on a personal level with the people and places we visit, we’re more likely to understand the issues affecting these places and how we can help.
  • Carbon offsets: have you considered whether your trip includes carbon offsets? Two global adventure tour companies now offering this option are World Expeditions and Intrepid Travel, which has also been carbon neutral since 2010.
  • Be an infrequent flier, choose slow travel instead: flying less often is the best choice you can make. Could you travel using another mode of transport? And could you commit to using low-impact forms of transport once you reach your destination to offset the emissions from your flight?

How can I give back when I buy my travel insurance?

Learn more about how you can give back to the places you visit with a small donation by watching this video.


This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording 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.

FAQ

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

  • Is my donation tax deductible?
    Footprints donations are not tax deductible—but 100% of your donation goes to the charity project you’ve helped fund.

Teeth hit the ground

I put my foot in a funny way while I was walking quickly because it was raining. I fell unexpectedly to the floor, face first, so I put my arm out, broke the shoulder and my front teeth hit the ground breaking a tooth.
Claim paid: USD $3441.64
P.R. Italian 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
  • Unexpectedly hospitalised?
  • Travel buddy unfit to travel?
  • Been made redundant?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Expenses

Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?

Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.

Emergency Medical Insurance
  • Need meds quick?
  • Accidentally injured?
  • Suddenly sick?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Transportation

Know where the nearest hospital is?

Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.

Evacuation and Repatriation
  • Banged up abroad?
  • Need a hospital urgently?
  • Medivac home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Luggage lost?
  • Airline lost your gear?
  • Tech trashed?

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team
Photo © Getty

Travel Insurance for High-intensity Sports

What you need to know if you plan on doing some of the more adventurous sports on your next trip.

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

So you love your high intensity sports and have plenty of adventurous plans for your trip abroad, and while you might know your own limits when it comes to adventure, you may not know that your travel insurance cover has limits.

Don’t get us wrong, we love to take things up a notch when hitting the great outdoors and really experiencing it which is why some of our plans offer cover for many popular adventure sports including rock climbing, scuba diving and skiing, but there’s plenty we don’t cover and limits and exclusions may apply.

Mount biking
Mountain bikers riding down a trail in the woods. Photo credit: Getty images / Daniel Milchev

What’s covered for high-intensity and adventure activities?

If you plan to add high-intensity sports and activities to your trip abroad, then travel insurance should be on your to-do list of things to consider when packing for your next trip. If you have several activities prepared when on the mountain, in the water, or at the snow, you may want to check out our plans to see which one fits your needs the most.

Not getting it right the first time could mean you may not be covered, for example, for medical evacuation and repatriation, and you may end up with a big medical bill.

We have two policies to choose from – Standard and Explorer.

While both plans cover a wide range of sports and activities, activity terms and conditions can vary between them. If you want to take your adventure sport to the next level, you’ll want to consider the Explorer Plan. The Explorer Plan has more generous activity conditions and limits than the Standard Plan. You can get a quote, make a claim, or extend your policy instantly online, even while traveling.

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

Questions to ask if you’re planning some higher-level sports and adventure activities while abroad

  • What kind of high-level adventure activities will I be doing on holiday?
  • What activities are my travel buddies planning?
  • Do I have the right gear, equipment and qualifications for that activity or sport?
  • What cover do the two different plans offer for these activities?
  • Am I fit enough to be able to undertake the planned sports, activities and experiences?
  • Are there any special exclusions or conditions of cover that may stop me from doing a specific sport or activity?
  • What exclusions might apply?
A man surfing
Photo of an extreme surfer. Photo credit: Getty images / drewhadley

What are some higher-level activities & sports that I can be covered for?

Depending on your country of residence and which plan you’ve selected you may be covered for some of the following sports and activities:

  • Big-wave surfing
  • Zorbing
  • Shark-cage diving
  • Parachuting
  • Mountaineering to 6,000 metres (with ropes, picks or specialist climbing equipment)
  • Triathlon up to full distance
  • Mountain biking downhill (using downhill trails and/or mechanical lifts)
  • White-water rafting (Grades 1 - 5)
  • Skydiving / tandem skydiving
  • Base jumping

And many more that you can find under our coverage plans…

The activities and sports listed below are not covered under any of World Nomads policies:

  • Bull running
  • Martial arts competitions
  • Potholing and caving
  • Cliff diving, solo diving, cave diving and free diving
  • Motor sports
  • Stunt flying/aerobatics
  • Taking part in dangerous expeditions; mountaineering expeditions or expeditions to the Arctic or Antarctica
  • Crewing of a vessel more than 60 mi (96km) from a protected body of water.

Please be aware that while we cover more than 150 activities, sports and experiences some may not be available under your specific coverage plan. Additionally, there are some we don’t cover under any of our policies. Some key things that we don’t cover include:

  • If you go against local authority warnings or enter closed or restricted areas or places or situations known to be unsafe or dangerous.
  • Damage to any sporting equipment while in use; loss, damage or theft of any sporting equipment left unattended.
  • Taking part in dangerous expeditions; mountaineering expeditions or expeditions to remote and inaccessible regions of the Arctic, Antarctica or Greenland, unless approved by us
  • Work offshore or underground, including in caves
  • Work operating machinery or heavy/industrial equipment
  • Work at height without proper safety equipment. Work at height is further restricted to a maximum of two metres
  • Work in close proximity to dangerous animals including, for example, hippopotami, crocodiles, alligators, sharks, elephants, bears, big cats and deadly snakes.
people in a shark cage
Scuba divers observing Caribbean reef sharks Photo credit: Getty images / Stephen Frink

Take your adventure activity and sports cover to the next level

Depending on your country of residence you will have access to several of our activities or sports that are listed on multiple levels (from Level 1 to Level 4). This is to reflect the varying degrees of difficulty or intensity.

Cover is automatically provided on the Standard Plan and Explorer Plan when you participate in Level 1 adventure sports and activities overseas. 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, 3 and 4) and pay any required additional premium at the time you purchase your policy as follows:

  • If you have paid the required additional premium for a sport or activity in Level 2, you are covered for all sports and activities and work listed as Level 1 and 2.
  • If you have paid the additional premium for a sport or activity in Level 3, you will be covered for all sports, activities and work listed as Level 1, 2 and 3.
  • If you have paid the additional premium for a sport or activity in Level 4, you will be covered for all sports, activities and work listed as Level 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Always check before you go that you have the right level of cover for your desired activities, as you cannot add any sports or activities after your trip has begun. Also, you can’t upgrade from a Standard Plan to an Explorer Plan mid-trip.

Read your policy carefully, and also check out our adventure, sports activities Help Centre article. Just set your country of residence and check out the complete list of covered activities, and sports. If you are still unsure if you’re chosen sport or activity is covered, please get in touch.

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.

You’re in safe hands with World Nomads

Check out our true claims video below to get a behind the scenes glimpse of how we help travelers when something goes wrong.

Travel insurance tipmany travel insurance 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 special terms, conditions and specific exclusions and conditions for some activities. .

Experiencing a Medical Emergency?

Our Emergency Assistance Team helps take the stress out of already stressful situations and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

If you're experiencing a medical emergency, contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team who can help direct you to medical help, and if necessary, work with local authorities to repatriate you home, subject to the terms and conditions of your policy.

Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you

Trip Cancellation

Been working hard for your trip?

We'll work hard to protect it.

Trip Protection
  • Unexpectedly hospitalised?
  • Travel buddy unfit to travel?
  • Close relative suddenly dies?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Expenses

Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?

Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.

Emergency Medical Insurance
  • Need meds quick?
  • Accidentally injured?
  • Suddenly sick?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Transportation

Know where the nearest hospital is?

Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.

Evacuation and Repatriation
  • Banged up abroad?
  • Need a hospital urgently?
  • Medivac home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Passport or tech stolen?
  • Airline lost your gear?
  • Bags delayed?

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team
Photo © Turnervisual/IStock

Travel insurance for Australia

Essential travel insurance tips when going down under

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

Spanning nearly 8 million km2 and with crystal-clear water, red deserts, tropical rainforests, and bustling cities, Australia is fascinatingly diverse. Whether you’re road-tripping the East Coast, hiking on Kangaroo Island or scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef, World Nomads has you covered.

What am I covered for?

World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) for:

  • Overseas medical expenses: if you become sick or injured during your trip.
  • Medical evacuation and repatriation: if you need emergency transport home due to a serious illness or injury.
  • Travel delays/interruption: if your trip is interrupted due to an insured event.
  • Trip cancellation: if your trip is cancelled due to an insured event.
  • Baggage and valuables: if your belongings are stolen, accidentally damaged, delayed or lost.
  • Family plans: add your children and grandchildren to our policies at no extra cost.
  • Activities cover: we cover more than 150 activities so you can have fun adventuring your way around Australia’s outback, coasts, cities and skies.

Note: our travel insurance plans are different. Cover will vary, depending on your country of residence, what you are claiming for, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy.

With World Nomads, you can buy travel insurance as soon as your trip is locked in or while you're traveling (waiting periods apply); it’s entirely up to you.

Bondi beach, Sydney, Australia
Bondi beach, Sydney, Australia. Photo credit: Getty images / Christine Wehrmeier

What should I look out for when travelling to Australia?

There are a few key things to consider when visiting Australia. Our travel insurance may help if you land in Melbourne, but your baggage doesn’t, or you suffer an injury whilst hiking Cradle Mountain.

To make it easier for you to choose a plan that’s right for you we offer two plans – Standard and Explorer. Each one provides different levels of coverage depending on what you need and your country of residence:

  • The Standard Plan –covers a range of benefits and certain adventure activities but has lower coverage limits.
  • The Explorer Plan – covers all the benefits of the Standard plan, with larger coverage limits, more benefits and covers more sports and activities.

Essential travel cover options when you need them the most

Depending on the level of cover you choose and your country of residence, our policies may cover you for:

Lost, stolen or delayed baggage cover

If your luggage or personal items are stolen, lost or accidentally damaged, you may be able to claim to replace or repair the item. If your luggage is delayed for more than 24 hours, you may be able to claim for essential clothing and toiletries while you wait for your bag to be returned.

Travel insurance for accidents or injuries

If you become sick or injured in Australia with anything from food poisoning to an injury while participating in an activity, our policies may cover you for medical treatment including hospitalisation, prescribed medicines and prescribed physiotherapy treatments. Terms and conditions apply.

Coronavirus cover for some events

If you catch COVID-19 while travelling in Australia we may cover you for medical expenses and hospital assistance, as well as repatriation. Our Explorer Plan offers extra cover for Coronavirus-related events such as cancellation, trip interruption expenses and some quarantine costs. To find out what cover applies to you, read our Coronavirus cover article, which has all the details, including benefit limits, conditions, and exclusions.

Adventure sports & activities cover

There’s no shortage of adventures and activities to do in Australia and depending on what plan you choose and your country of residence, you can be covered for hiking adventures in the Snowy Mountains, road trips along the East Coast, surfing at Bondi Beach, snorkelling with Whale Sharks on Ningaloo Reef and much more. You can find the full list of covered activities in the Policy Wording.

Rental car coverage and road safety

Australia is the perfect place for a road trip. With such vast distances between destinations, it can be a good idea to make sure you are covered if something goes wrong when you’re on the road.

Available on our Explorer Plan, we may cover your rental vehicle insurance excess, or the cost of repairing the rental vehicle if you’re involved in a motor accident or your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen.

Tourist at Cathedral Gorge
Purnululu National Park, Western Australia. Tourist at Cathedral Gorge. Photo credit: Getty images / Francesco Riccardo Iacomino

What’s not covered?

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

  • Pre-existing medical conditions – see the policy wording for details.
  • Traveling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that is subject to a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning issued by the U.S Department of State.
  • Neglecting to observe applicable preventative measures for the travel region, as outlined by the World Health Organization, including obtaining relevant vaccinations and hygiene measures.
  • Participation in a sport or activity not listed or failing to adhere to the terms of coverage for listed sports or activities.
  • Our policy doesn’t replace the need for you to purchase rental vehicle insurance through the rental vehicle company covering physical damage and theft of the rental vehicle and your liability to third parties for injury or property damage while the rental vehicle is in your care or control.
  • Being intoxicated by alcohol or drugs.

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

Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour. Photo credit: Getty images / Mohd Ezairi Mohd Amiruddin / EyeEm

Handy tips for travelling in Australia

  • If you’re planning a road trip, be aware of the distances involved between destinations. Sometimes it can be hundreds of kilometres between towns and petrol stations.
  • The sun is very strong in Australia so be sure to wear sunblock, even on a cloudy day. Temperatures in Outback areas can be very high.
  • Pick your season – the weather can vary tremendously in parts of Australia even in the same season.
  • Swim between the flags at the beach. They show the safest point on the beach for swimming and can help you avoid dangerous rips.

Are you looking for more travel inspiration for Australia? World Nomads has various articles that cover a range of fun topics on Australia, here are just a few:

You can also check out our articles if you need the latest safety travel alerts.

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. If you are unsure about 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 hospitalised?
  • Travel buddy unfit to travel?
  • Close relative suddenly dies?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Expenses

Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?

Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.

Emergency Medical Insurance
  • Need meds quick?
  • Accidentally injured?
  • Suddenly sick?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Transportation

Know where the nearest hospital is?

Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.

Evacuation and Repatriation
  • Banged up abroad?
  • Need a hospital urgently?
  • Medivac home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Passport or tech stolen?
  • Airline lost your gear?
  • Bags delayed?

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team
Photo © Turnervisual/IStock

Travel insurance for Australia

Essential travel insurance tips when going down under

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

With its crystal-clear water, tropical rainforests, and a burnt red Outback, Australia is a thrilling destination. Whether you’re road-tripping the Great Ocean Road, cycling around Uluru or snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, World Nomads Travel Insurance can have you covered.

What am I covered for?

World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) for:

  • Overseas medical expenses: if you become sick or injured during your trip.
  • Medical evacuation and repatriation: if you need emergency transport home due to a serious illness or injury.
  • Travel delays/interruption: if your trip is interrupted due to an insured event.
  • Trip cancellation: if your trip is cancelled due to an insured event.
  • Baggage and valuables: if your belongings are stolen, accidentally damaged, delayed or lost.
  • Family plans: add your children and grandchildren to our policies at no extra cost.
  • Activities cover: we cover more than 150 activities so you can have fun adventuring your way around Australia’s outback, coasts, cities and skies.

Note: our travel insurance plans are different. Cover will vary, depending on what you are claiming for, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy.

With World Nomads, you can buy travel insurance as soon as your trip to Australia is locked in or while you're travelling (waiting periods apply); it’s entirely up to you

Bondi beach, Sydney, Australia
Bondi beach, Sydney, Australia. Photo credit: Getty images / Christine Wehrmeier

What should I look out for when travelling to Australia?

When visiting your neighbours across the ditch, there are a few key things to consider. Our travel insurance could help if you land in Sydney, but your baggage doesn’t or if you suffer an injury hiking Cradle Mountain.

World Nomads offers two plans – Standard and Explorer. Each policy has different levels of cover depending on what your needs are. You may be covered if your bags are lost or stolen, if your transport is delayed, or if you suffer an injury that lands you in hospital.

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

Essential travel cover options when you need them the most

Depending on the level of cover you choose, World Nomads offers coverage (up to the policy limits) for:

Lost, stolen or delayed baggage cover

If your luggage or personal items are stolen, lost or accidentally damaged, you may be able to claim to replace or repair the item. If your luggage is delayed for more than 12 hours, you may be able to claim for essential clothing and toiletries while you wait for your bag to be returned.

Medical insurance for accidents or injuries

If you become sick or injured in Australia, with anything from food poisoning to an injury whilst participating in an activity, our policies can cover you for medical treatment including hospitalisation, prescribed medicines and prescribed physiotherapy treatments.

Coronavirus cover for some events

If you catch COVID-19 while visiting Australia, we may cover you for medical expenses and hospital assistance, as well as repatriation. Our Explorer Plan offers extra cover for Coronavirus-related events such as cancellation, trip interruption expenses and some quarantine costs. You can check out our Coronavirus cover article which has all of the details, including terms and conditions, benefit limits and exclusions.

Adventure sports & activities cover

There’s no shortage of adventures and activities to do in Australia and depending on what plan you choose, you can be covered for hiking in Tasmania, road tripping along the East Coast, surfing at Bondi Beach, snorkelling with Whale Sharks on Ningaloo Reef and much more. You can find the full list of covered activities here.

Rental car coverage and road safety

Australia is the perfect place for a road trip. With such vast distances between destinations, it can be a good idea to make sure you are covered if something goes wrong when you’re on the road.

Available on our Explorer Plan, we may cover your rental vehicle insurance excess, or the cost of repairing the rental vehicle if you’re involved in a motor accident or your rental vehicle is damaged or stolen.

Tourist at Cathedral Gorge
Purnululu National Park, Western Australia. Tourist at Cathedral Gorge. Photo credit: Getty images / Francesco Riccardo Iacomino

What’s not covered?

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

  • Existing medical conditions – see the Policy Document for details.
  • Traveling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that is subject to a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning issued by the New Zealand Government.
  • Neglecting to observe applicable preventative measures for the travel region, as outlined by the World Health Organization, including obtaining relevant vaccinations and hygiene measures.
  • Participation in a sport or activity not listed or failing to adhere to the terms of coverage for listed sports or activities.
  • Our policy doesn’t replace the need for you to purchase rental vehicle insurance through the rental vehicle company covering physical damage and theft of the rental vehicle and your liability to third parties for injury or property damage while the rental vehicle is in your care or control.
  • Being intoxicated by alcohol or drugs.

Be sure to read the Policy Document and General Exclusions for other scenarios and expenses we don’t cover so there’ll be no surprises if you need to use your cover.

Sydney Harbour
Sydney Harbour. Photo credit: Getty images / Mohd Ezairi Mohd Amiruddin / EyeEm

Australia Travel Tips

  • If you’re planning a road trip, be aware of the distances involved between destinations. Sometimes it can be hundreds of kilometres between towns and petrol stations.
  • The sun is very strong in Australia so be sure to wear sunblock, even on a cloudy day. Temperatures in Outback areas can be very high.
  • Pick your season – the weather can vary tremendously in parts of Australia even in the same season.
  • Swim between the flags at the beach. They show the safest point on the beach for swimming and can help you avoid dangerous rips.

Are you looking for more travel inspiration for Australia? World Nomads has various articles that cover a range of fun topics in Australia, here are just a few:

You can also check out our articles if you need the latest safety travel alerts.

This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your Policy Document in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

The information provided is of a general nature and is provided for information purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice in any form and should not be relied on as a substitute for obtaining professional advice that is specific to your circumstances. You should seek advice from a financial advice provider if you would like further information about whether a particular product is appropriate for you and your circumstances.


Traveller tip 1
don't forget when travelling overseas, some countries may require your New Zealand passport to be valid for at least six months before it's expiry date as a condition of entry

Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you

Trip Cancellation

Been working hard for your trip?

We'll work hard to protect it.

Trip Protection
  • Unexpectedly hospitalised?
  • Travel buddy unfit to travel?
  • Close relative suddenly dies?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Expenses

Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?

Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.

Emergency Medical Insurance
  • Need meds quick?
  • Accidentally injured?
  • Suddenly sick?

We’ve got your back.

Emergency Medical Transportation

Know where the nearest hospital is?

Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.

Evacuation and Repatriation
  • Banged up abroad?
  • Need a hospital urgently?
  • Medivac home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Passport or tech stolen?
  • Airline lost your gear?
  • Bags delayed?

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team