Photo © Getty Images/Westend61

Travel Insurance for Hiking and Trekking

Simple and flexible travel insurance to take you trekking around the world.

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Whether it’s the trek or the view you’re chasing, the world’s great hiking destinations will leave you breathless. From Europe’s alpine trails to the mist-soaked rainforests of Costa Rica, hiking has a magic all its own. 

Preparation is paramount to any hiking adventure abroad; learning about the area, checking the route and making sure you have the right gear in case bad weather rolls in. Along with a trusty map, it helps to pack travel insurance if hiking accidents stop you in your tracks.

What’s covered for hiking and trekking?

Are you an experienced Irish hiker looking for your next big challenge or are you happier on a relaxed family hike? No matter how adventurous your hiking plans, World Nomads plans may offer cover (up to the benefit limits) for:

  • Emergency medical: overseas emergency medical expenses at a hospital or medical centre if you suffer an unexpected injury or illness while hiking. You’ll first need to contact your private medical insurance (PMI) provider, if applicable, and follow their emergency procedures and claims procedures. Where your PMI provider cannot assist, contact the 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance team. Expenses must be medically necessary and agreed by the insurer in order to receive reimbursement of your covered expenses.
  • Evacuation: we offer approved overseas emergency medical evacuation to the most appropriate medical facility for treatment or repatriation back to Ireland. Emergency transport is subject to approval from the 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance team.
  • Trip cancellation: has a sick or injured travelling companion put a stop to your hiking break? Your plan may be able to recover the unused non-refundable travel expenses.
  • Gear protection: had your camera stolen while hiking in Thailand? Our gear coverage can help with replacing belongings that were swiped from under your nose. You’ll need a police report to submit with your claim as well as copies of the original receipts and supporting documentation.
  • Lost or damaged baggage cover: have your bags or personal items gone missing? You must report all theft or loss to the police as well as to the common carrier, service provider or other local authority as soon as possible. You must also get a Property Irregularity Report or other incident report from the carrier so you can submit it with your claim, as well as a police report, copies of the original receipts and any luggage tickets.
  • Delayed baggage cover: has your checked-in baggage been delayed for more than 24 hours? Your plan may cover essential items you purchase while you’re waiting for your baggage to arrive.
  • Coronavirus cover: we offer cover for some Coronavirus related events

Choose a plan that suits your needs

Both our Standard Plan and Explorer Plan may offer many of the same benefits including cover for hiking or trekking up to 6,000 metres, you just need to select the maximum elevation you’ll be hiking to at the time you get your quote.

If you’re lucky enough to have some extra adventure or sport activities planned such as kayaking or mountaineering, check out our article on covered sports and activities, which will help you select the optional upgrades you’ll need to add to your plan when you buy your policy, you can’t add them afterwards. Terms and conditions apply, please read your Policy Wording carefully or contact us if you have any questions.

What’s not covered for hiking?

Sorry – we won’t cover you if you do something reckless (such as tackling an extreme hiking trip into a remote area when you’re only a beginner). Some things we don’t cover include:

  • Pre-existing medical conditions as explained in your Policy Wording
  • Free mountaineering, climbing in remote or inaccessible regions, exploratory expeditions and new routes, high altitude climbing over 6,000 metres, mountaineering expeditions or expeditions to the Arctic or Antarctica.
  • Search and rescue operations to find or rescue you as per your Policy Wording.
  • Any adventure or sport activity you did not specify on your policy.
  • If you refuse to be repatriated or evacuated.
  • If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or what we or the 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team advise you to do.
  • If you do not follow the local safety advice and warnings.
  • Expenses that can be recovered from other sources e.g. transport carriers, accommodation providers, credit card issuers or other insurance policies.
  • Medical treatment that can wait until your return to Ireland.
  • If you don't keep your gear safe and secure at all times. 

How to get the most out of your travel insurance

Before you head for the hills, the following tips can help you maximise your safety and validity of cover. 

  • Inform a local assistance company of your trekking route and policy details.
  • If you require any medical treatment during your trip while outside of Ireland you first need to contact your private medical insurance (PMI) provider (if applicable) and follow their emergency medical procedures and claims procedures. Where your PMI provider cannot provide assistance, please contact our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance Team before incurring medical costs.
  • Check which countries your trail passes through to ensure your policy covers you for that region.

This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You can read more about hiking and travel insurance and 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 died?

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
  • Rolled your ankle?
  • Bedridden after a local delicacy?
  • Struggling with altitude?

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
  • Road or air ambulance?
  • Flight assistance?
  • Medivac needed home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Go pro stolen?
  • Gear damaged in transit?
  • 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

FAQ

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

Photo © Meghan Pinsonnault/Stocksy

Ski & snowboarding travel insurance

Simple and flexible travel insurance for skiers and snowboarders. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.

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Why buy travel insurance when going skiing or snowboarding?

Big dumps, fresh tracks and bluebird days will make for an epic trip, yet accidents on and off the hill do happen, even to the most experienced sliders. If you’re just learning on your first trip or you’re a ski bum chasing seasons, World Nomads travel insurance can help you and your family when the unexpected hits your next winter adventure.

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?
  • Ski 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
  • Slipped on ice?
  • Tore your ACL or MCL?
  • Popped a shoulder?

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
  • Road or air ambulance?
  • Flight assistance?
  • Medivac needed home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Go Pro stolen?
  • Bags lost in transit?
  • Luggage 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.

World Nomads loves the snow

As passionate ski bums, we’ve designed our plans to offer cover for the style of riding our Nomads love the most*:

  • Skiing and boarding within resorts
  • Cross country skiing on marked trails
  • Terrain parks, heli-skiing & heli-boarding
  • Snowmobiling, ice skating, snow rafting & more

*All plans are different and may require an upgrade for skiing or snowboarding cover to apply. Conditions and exclusions apply. Read the policy wording carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport upgrade for your trip.

24/7 emergency assistance

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

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team

FAQ

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

Photo © Kanarys/IStock

Scuba Diving travel insurance

Simple and flexible travel insurance to keep you safe on your next dive trip. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.

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Why buy travel insurance when going scuba diving?

Calm waters, crystal clear visibility and a bulletproof dive plan might make for the perfect underwater adventure, but accidents can happen, even to the most experienced divers. Whether you're learning or you’ve done hundreds of dives, World Nomads travel insurance can help take the pressure off you and your family when the unexpected sinks your next dive trip.

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?
  • Dive 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
  • Stepped on a stonefish?
  • Got a serious squeeze?
  • Need 02 or hyperbaric treatment?

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
  • Sea level medical evac?
  • Need an ambulance?
  • Medivac needed home?

Help starts here.

Protect your gear

Love photography, filming or sport?

Cover your bags, tech or gear.

Protect your gear
  • Go Pro stolen?
  • Bags lost in transit?
  • Luggage 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.

World Nomads love Scuba Diving

As passionate divers ourselves, we’ve designed our plans to cover dives from the Great Blue Hole to The Yongala.

  • Scuba diving (qualified divers to 30 meters – an additional premium may apply)
  • Learn-to-dive courses or discover scuba dives (with qualified instructors)
  • Shark cage diving
  • Snorkeling, island escapes, live-aboard trips, and more

*Note: All plans are different and may require an upgrade to go scuba diving. Conditions and exclusions apply. Read the policy wording carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport option for your trip.

24/7 emergency assistance

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

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team

FAQ

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

Photo © Jovo Jovanovic/Stocksy

Travel Insurance for Overseas Accidents

What's covered by travel insurance when your adventure turns into misadventure.

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Knowing your cover for accidents overseas is a critical part of planning for any adventure. Whether you’re exploring on the grid or hurtling off it, serious accidents can happen anywhere, anytime.

Does World Nomads travel insurance cover medical expenses overseas?

Yes. You’ll first need to contact your private medical insurance (PMI) provider (if applicable) and follow their emergency medical procedures and their claims procedures. Cover available under this travel insurance policy is in excess of any cover provided by your PMI. Also, provide us with details of your PMI provider to help us co-ordinate your care. Where your PMI provider does not cover you, contact our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team before incurring medical costs. You must let us know how you are going and keep in contact with our EA team until you no longer require treatment or assistance.

What’s covered by World Nomads travel insurance if I have an accident overseas?

If you’re injured in an accident, Irish residents may be covered for emergency medical treatment overseas including:

  • Hospitalisation.
  • Day surgery and out-patient treatment.
  • Visits to registered medical practitioners.
  • Medical evacuation including air ambulance, where medically required.

Our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance Team can guide you to the nearest hospital, arrange medical transport, set up direct payments to the medical facility, and give support to your family.

What’s not covered?

  • If you’re intoxicated due to excessive intake of drugs or alcohol.
  • If you’re doing an activity the policy doesn’t cover.
  • If you’ve been acting recklessly or illegally.
  • If you ride a motorbike without a helmet or the correct licence.

The policy isn’t designed to cover everything so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the Policy Wording for full details, so there are no surprises if you need to use it. If you’re not sure if something is covered get in touch.

Emergency Assistance for travel accidents

It's essential that you get in contact with our Emergency Medical Assistance Teams as soon as possible so that our teams can support you from the time you 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

Moped Accident in Koh Tao.

I was injured in a moped accident, in Koh Tao, Thailand. The moped turned over onto my foot and I had sprained/injured ligaments and tendons in my left foot. I was unable to walk on my foot at all. The doctor gave me a bandage in lieu of a cast, and crutches, stating that I could not bear any weight on my foot for a minimum of three weeks. I was also told to rest my foot, and could not do so while traveling. I needed to come back to the US for help getting around as well as time to heal.
C.H. American in Thailand.
Claim Paid: $620.22

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

FAQ

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

Photo © Getty Images / Alexander Spatari

Does Travel Insurance Cover Terrorism?

Find out how we could help if you're caught up in a terror attack.

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Recent world events have shocked most of us with terrorist events on our doorstep and at many of our favourite holiday destinations.

Our travellers know that staying aware at all times is key to staying safe, but there are some things you can never anticipate, and a terrorist event is one of those.

What can travel insurance cover if there's a terrorist attack?

In the event of a terrorist attack, our travel insurance offers limited cover:

You decide to stay and travel: If you decide to stay and travel, as long as there is no directive from the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) or a similar body recommending evacuation, your policy will continue. There is still an exclusion for events related to terrorist activity, except for your medical expenses overseas if you are injured due to a terrorist event.

You’re injured or die in a terrorist attack: If you bought your policy on or after 1 August 2019 and you’re injured or die in a terrorist attack, our policies may provide cover for emergency medical and dental assistance overseas. You can’t have travelled against the advice of the Irish DFA or participated in the terrorist activity (obviously).

 Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team can help you navigate next steps if you’re caught up in the chaos and aftermath of an attack and are trying to continue your trip.

What’s not covered by travel insurance if there's a terror attack?

Terrorist attacks are understandably traumatic. If you’re worried one might occur, or following an attack you want to travel elsewhere or go back to Ireland, we consider that to be a change of mind and we won’t cover you for those costs to change your plans.

In addition, our policy does not cover:

  • If you choose to travel to a destination for which the Irish DFA has advised against all, or all but essential, travel.
  • Non-medical evacuation
  • If you change your mind.
  • Any pre-trip cancellation expenses.
  • If you decide to return to Ireland early.
  • If you have to leave where you are staying and leave your stuff behind, you will not be able to replace it.
  • Buying a policy after the event happens will not cover you for any event-related injuries

You must also remember that if you knowingly put yourself in danger you may void your travel insurance. This means if there’s a warning of a terrorist attack or you were likely to have had knowledge there might be one, and you put yourself at risk by travelling to or staying in the vicinity of that area, then your cover may be void.

The policy isn’t designed to cover everything so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the Policy Wording for full details, so there are no surprises if you need to use it. If you’re not sure if something is covered get in touch.

How to get help if you're hurt in a terror attack

It’s essential you get in contact with our assistance teams as soon as possible so that our teams can support you from the time you 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 
  • The nature of your problem
  • Your location

Terror Attacks in Paris.

After the terrorist attacks in Paris on November 13 and subsequent raids in St. Denis on November 18, we decided to cancel our trip until a better time to travel with our children overseas.
Claim Paid: $424.34
US Traveller

FAQ

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

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 © Simone Becchetti/Stocksy

Travel Insurance for Pregnancy

Learn what is and isn't covered by travel insurance if you're pregnant.

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Pregnancy shouldn't be a reason to stop your next adventure. But with a new addition on board, travel insurance may help you look after yourself and bub-to-be if you're suddenly injured or have unexpected complications with your pregnancy while travelling. 

What travel insurance will cover during pregnancy

If you're travelling and have a pregnancy complication due to an accidental bodily injury or unexpected illness on your trip, our policies may offer cover for:

  • Emergency medical treatment overseas.
  • Hospitalisation.
  • Ambulance transfers.
  • Transport to get you home for ongoing treatment (if medically required).
  • 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance

You must not have been more than 28 weeks pregnant at the start of your trip (or 24 weeks for multiple births).

You must be able to provide confirmation from a medical practitioner or midwife that you were fit to travel, in the event of a claim.

If you’re confirmed not fit to travel, or if you will be more than 28 weeks pregnant at the start of your trip (or 24 weeks for multiple births), you can make a claim under Cancelling Your Trip provided you purchased this policy/booked a trip before you were aware you would not be able to travel.

To find out all the details on our travel insurance cover for pregnancy you can read our Help Center article for Irish travellers.

It’s also a good idea to check with the airline before you pay for your ticket to see if they have any restrictions on carrying a pregnant person.

What we won’t cover

We won’t cover a number of circumstances including, but not limited to:

  • Having a pre-existing medical condition that results in complications.
  • Normal costs associated with pregnancy or childbirth. This includes routine medical care such as your antenatal check-ups and scans, costs associated with giving birth, and care for a newborn baby. 
  • Doing anything illegal.
  • Travelling against the advice of a medically qualified doctor.
  • Drugs or alcohol-related injuries or illnesses.
  • Deliberate self-harm or wilful exposure to exceptional risk.

This is not a full list of what's covered and what's not covered. There are limits and conditions that apply, so please read your Policy Wording carefully before you buy for all the details.

How to get assistance if you're sick or injured while pregnant

You’ll first need to contact your private medical insurance (PMI) provider (if applicable) and follow their emergency medical procedures and their claims procedures. Cover available under this travel insurance policy is in excess of any cover provided by your PMI. Also, provide us with details of your PMI provider to help us co-ordinate your care. Where your PMI provider does not cover you, contact our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team before incurring medical costs. You must let us know how you are going and keep in contact with our assistance team until you no longer require treatment or assistance.

The policy isn’t designed to cover everything so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the Policy Wording for full details, so there are no surprises if you need to use it. If you’re not sure if something is covered 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 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance teams as soon as possible so that you can be supported from the time you fall sick or get injured until the time you get home.

So that they 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

Unable to travel in first trimester.

I unexpectedly became pregnant towards the end of November. I was planning on still going on the trip until my doctor diagnosed me with Hyperemesis Gravidarum. They recommend not leaving the country due to these complications in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Claim paid: USD $3,150
M.McClendon. U.S 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?
  • 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

FAQ

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 the customer service team. 

  • Do both of your policies cover pregnancy?
    Yes, both the Standard and Explorer policies may cover pregnancy or medical conditions related to pregnancy, provided you will not be more than 28 weeks pregnant at the time your trip is due to start (or 24 weeks for multiples births) and you have confirmation from a midwife or medical practitioner that you are fit to travel. There is no cover for routine or normal costs associated with pregnancy or childbirth.
Photo © Jovo Jovanovic/Stocksy

Travel Insurance for Overseas Medical

Don't let your medical costs bury you.

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

For information relating to policies purchased prior to 27 June 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased after 27 June 2024, please see below.

Broken bones in Mykonos, mystery illness in Madrid and bus accidents in Thailand, we’ve seen it all and know overseas medical travel insurance can literally be a lifesaver.

In order to help our Irish travellers get back on their feet our policy has been designed to help out when some unexpected illness or injury strikes and you’re ready to get back on the road again.

Keep in mind that you’ll first need to contact your private medical insurance (PMI) provider (if applicable) and follow their emergency medical procedures and their claims procedures. Cover available under this travel insurance policy is in excess of any cover provided by your PMI. Also, provide us with details of your PMI provider to help us co-ordinate your care. Where your PMI provider does not cover you, contact our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team before incurring medical costs. You must let us know how you are going and keep in contact with our assistance team until you no longer require treatment or assistance.

What’s covered by overseas medical travel insurance?

World Nomads travel insurance covers accidents and emergencies when you’re travelling overseas.

If you’re accidentally injured or suddenly become ill while traveling, our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team is on hand to help you. Cover may include:

  • Assistance locating and paying for medical care including a doctor, dentist, chiropractor or medical facilities in your location or nearby.
  • Hospitalisation.
  • Out-patient care and day surgery.
  • Ambulances and medical transport, including by helicopter if medically necessary and available.
  • Prescribed medicines.
  • Transport home to Ireland if we deem it medically necessary.

Am I covered for COVID-19 while overseas?

All our plans include emergency medical cover for travellers who get sick with Coronavirus while overseas (excluding pre-existing medical conditions, as outlined in the Policy Wording). If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 while overseas your benefits may include:

  • 24/7 access to our Emergency Medical Assistance team, who can help you access local medical care;
  • Medical costs including hospitalisation;
  • Evacuation or repatriation if deemed necessary by us and in consultation with your attending physician.

You can check out our What’s covered for Coronavirus article which has all of the details, including benefit limits and exclusions.

Reciprocal health agreements and medical cover

World Nomads policies cover accidents and emergencies only, and it is not a private health insurance policy. Cover may apply only if there is a sudden and unexpected accident or illness and for expenses for which there is no reciprocal health agreement in the country in which you are travelling.

If you are travelling to a country where Ireland has a reciprocal healthcare agreement, such as Australia or EU countries, you will need to apply for reciprocal health cover before you leave Ireland.

What’s not covered by travel insurance?

Though our policy may cover accidents and emergencies, it’s not a catch-all for every incident you might find yourself in. Medical conditions or circumstances we don’t cover include:

  • If you were doing anything illegal. (You didn’t really think we’d cover that did you?)
  • Injuries or illness from drugs or alcohol.
  • If you’ve been acting recklessly.
  • Pre-existing medical conditions as defined in the Policy Wording.
  • Ongoing treatment at home.
  • Non-emergency treatment that can wait until you get home.
  • Medical expenses covered under a reciprocal health agreement in the country in which you are travelling.
  • If you booked a one-way ticket to your destination, we will not pay for your return ticket home.

How to get medical assistance

For our Irish travellers, if you have private medical insurance (PMI) in Ireland, get in touch first with your PMI provider and follow their emergency assistance and claims procedures. If you do not have PMI or they can no longer assist, it’s essential that you get in contact with our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team as soon as reasonably possible so that the team can support you from the time you fall sick or get injured until the time you're well again.

So that they 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

The policy isn’t designed to cover everything so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the Policy Wording for full details, so there are no surprises if you need to use it. If you’re not sure if something is covered get in touch.

Monkey Bite!

While visiting the Monkey Forest in Bali, I was bitten by a monkey and blood was drawn. After returning to our hotel we then visited a local doctor the same evening of the bite. I received my first rabies vaccination and then went to the International SOS office in Bali for an examination. There I received a second rabies shot, and then immunoglobulin shots.
Claim paid: USD $3516.77
S.D. U.S Resident in Indonesia.

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
  • Have you died?
  • Have your relos 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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

24/7 emergency assistance

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

Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?

Contact the team

FAQ

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

Photo © Migin/IStock

Travel Insurance for Medical Repatriation

When home is the best place for healthcare and healing  

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

For information relating to policies purchased prior to 27 June 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased from 27 June 2024, please see below.

Serious accidents or illnesses can happen at any time during your trip, whether you’re trekking through the Eurasian Steppe or (not so) simply crossing the road in Vietnam. And if it’s bad enough to end your trip mid-way or if our medical teams recommend you return to Ireland for treatment, our repatriation cover can help get you home safely.

The cost of medical evacuations can vary, depending on a number of circumstances, including the remoteness of the location from which the evacuation might occur, as well as the type of medical care required for injuries or illnesses incurred. That's what our emergency medical, evacuation and repatriation insurance in all of our plans is designed to cover.

Keep in mind that you’ll first need to contact your private medical insurance (PMI) provider (if applicable) and follow their emergency medical procedures and their claims procedures. Cover available under this travel insurance policy is in excess of any cover provided by your PMI. Also, provide us with details of your PMI provider to help us co-ordinate your care. Where your PMI provider does not cover you, contact our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team before incurring medical costs. You must let us know how you are going and keep in contact with our assistance team until you no longer require treatment or assistance.

I need help now – what do I do?

The first step when you have been admitted as an inpatient for at least one night is to contact us is to get medical help, and as soon as is reasonably possible contact us (or get someone else to do so on your behalf). Our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team can make arrangements and get pre-authorisation for your repatriation home if it's required. Our doctors and nurses have seen some horrific accidents and illnesses and have helped thousands of travellers get home safely to fully recover.

Our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance teams are trained to help in these situations, negotiating the complexities of hospitals, specialist transportation, airline approvals and medical escorts so you (and your family) can focus on your recovery.

World Nomads offers benefits for medical issues related to Coronavirus (COVID-19) under the Emergency Medical Expenses & Medical Repatriation section; please note that benefit limits vary between our Standard and Explorer Plans.

If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 while overseas and it’s not considered a ‘pre-existing medical condition’ under our policy, your benefits include evacuation or repatriation if deemed necessary by us and in consultation with your attending physician.

Our article What’s covered for Coronavirus explains the benefits available if you get COVID-19 and need urgent assistance.

How World Nomads travel insurance can get you home

Travel insurance is made to cover emergency treatment overseas and, if necessary, cover to rearrange your initial travel plans or for specialist medical transportation to get you back to Ireland. If our medical teams believe it’s necessary to bring you home for treatment or ongoing care, there’s cover in all of our policies for:

  • Air Ambulance
  • Sea Level Aircraft
  • Ground Ambulance
  • Flight changes, upgrades or just more space
  • Flight upgrade + medical staff

Please note that cover is up to the amount shown in your Policy Wording and is subject to our Emergency Medical Assistance team or us, on the advice of a medical practitioner appointed by us in consultation with your medical practitioner overseas, first deciding that:

  • Transportation is medically necessary; and
  • The style and timing of the transportation are reasonable and appropriate; and
  • You're medically fit to be evacuated; and
  • You should be transferred to Ireland.

What's not covered

There are some cases where it's just not possible to provide cover:

  • Flight upgrades, new flights or changes without our approval (or where it's not medically necessary).
  • Refusal to return home for treatment.
  • Changing your mind to not continue your trip, even if you're fit to travel.
  • Medical expenses once you're back in your home country.
  • A joy flight to get down off the mountain after you've reached Base Camp.

The policy isn’t designed to cover everything so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the Policy Wording for full details, so there are no surprises if you need to use it. If you’re not sure if something is covered get in touch.

How to get medical assistance. 

It’s essential that you get in contact with ourEmergency Medical Assistance team as soon as possible. Our team can support you from the time you get sick or injured until the time you get home. 

To expedite your call, please be ready with the following: 

  • Your policy number 
  • A contact number where you can be reached  
  • The nature of your problem 
  • Your location 

Abdominal pain in Myanmar

On my second day in Burma, I woke up in the middle of the night with intense abdominal distress. I was rushed to the Asia Royal Hospital and immediately taken for evaluation and an ultrasound. I had a large mass in my abdomen and evacuated to Bangkok that evening to see a specialist. I was admitted to Bumrungrad International Hospital, where I stayed for eight days for a battery of tests, including several ultrasounds, a CT scan, and two aspirations of what turned out to be a renal cyst. After a conditional discharge, where I was restricted to rest, I was deemed stable enough to be evacuated. Two days later I was on a flight back to the U.S., where I am now continuing treatment.
U.S Nomad in Myanmar

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?
  • 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

FAQ

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

  • Can my mum come and get me?
    Yes, in some situations we can send your mum or a close family member over to pick you up if you need mobility support. If you’re on any kind of administrative medication, then we might send you a nurse or doctor.
  • What happens I’m on life support?
    That’s a really bad way to end your holiday, and we hope you never end on life support. But if you do, we will look at the best possible solution to either get you home, or get your family over there to say goodbye.
Photo © Yulkapopkova/IStock

Does Travel Insurance Cover Dental?

Learn how travel insurance may cover emergency dental treatment abroad.

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

Having insurance for emergency dental can mean the difference between a taste adventure or a disaster. That’s why we want to offer our Irish travellers cover for emergency dental treatment just in case you happen to indulge in some tasty food but which may leave a bad taste in your mouth if you chip a tooth or you get an infection.

Whether you’re sampling the ktefa in Morocco or taking the durian challenge in Thailand, sudden and serious pain in your teeth can stop you in your tracks.

What’s covered?

All of our plans can cover emergency dental treatment overseas if you urgently need to see a dentist for the immediate relief of sudden and acute pain to your teeth while traveling if:

  • You get an unexpected infection
  • You've broken your tooth

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team who will help you locate a qualified dentist nearby.

What’s not covered?

Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything. Common dental claims we see where there's no cover include:

  • Dental work other than that related to emergency dental pain relief
  • Cosmetic dentistry or whitening
  • Pre-existing dental problems as explained in your Policy Wording
  • Major dental work, such as crowns, dentures, bridges and implants
  • Any dental treatment after your return to Ireland

The policy isn’t designed to cover everything so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the Policy Wording for full details, so there are no surprises if you need to use it. If you’re not sure if something is covered get in touch.

How to get dental assistance

If you're in a serious accident, it’s essential that you get in contact with our emergency medical assistance teams as soon as possible so that our teams can support you.

So that our Emergency Assistance teams can assist you quickly, please be ready with the following:

  • Your policy number
  • A contact number
  • The nature of your problem
  • Your location

If you've already visited a dentist and received emergency treatment, you can submit your claim online.

I bit on something hard

A bone chipped my front tooth, on the top row, and cracked it. Blood started to run down so I had an emergency visit to the dentist to repair it.
Claim paid: USD $82.33
B.P. U.S Resident in South Africa.

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

FAQ

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

  • What do I need to do if I need a dentist?
    Call the emergency medical assistance team for advice on your dental condition or if you need directions to the nearest or most suitable dentist or medical facility.
Photo © Extreme-Photographer/IStock

Travel 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:

When you’re travelling, you don’t always have control over what happens to your gear: it can get stolen, damaged, be sent to the wrong airport or get lost permanently in transit. That’s where baggage and personal belongings cover can help.

Baggage and personal belongings travel insurance: what's covered?

All World Nomads plans for Irish residents include coverage for your luggage and personal items you take with you. Cover includes:

  • Necessities (e.g underwear & toiletries) if your baggage is delayed for at least 24 hours.
  • The depreciated value of any items lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed.
  • Specific high-value items you have paid an additional insurance premium for and which are shown on your Certificate of Insurance.
  • The additional cost of obtaining a replacement passport or visa including accommodation, travel and fees that you would otherwise not have paid.
  • If you buy the Explorer Plan, the policy also covers accidental loss or theft of your own money while you were carrying it or if you left it in a locked safety deposit box.

What’s not covered?

There are a number of items our policy for Irish residents doesn’t cover and if you don’t look after your belongings properly, you may not be covered either.

  • If you don't keep your gear safe and secure. 
  • If you don't report the loss to the police and appropriate carrier or authority within 24 hours of the loss being discovered. Get a written report!
  • Any item that is covered under another insurance policy or where it is recoverable from another source.
  • Sporting equipment while in use. 
This is not a full list of what's covered and not covered. There are item limits and conditions that apply, so for more information check out our article on baggage cover and personal effects and read your policy carefully before you buy.

Travel Insurance Baggage Tips:

  • Find and scan your receipts before your leave home.
  • If an airline loses your gear, tell them straight away and get it in writing.
  • Theft? Report it to the police as soon as possible and get a copy of the report.
  • If you’ve got a smartphone or tablet that can be blocked, block it.
  • You can claim at home or while overseas.

Baggage Delay in a Delhi Winter.

I arrived in Delhi from Rome. Baggage claim help desk informed me that my bag had been delayed in transit. I was without my bag for almost a week before it was finally delivered to me. It was cold in Delhi (being winter, December) and my warm jacket was in my bag, requiring that I purchase a jacket and other items of warm clothing that I had not taken in my carry-on.
Claim paid: USD $51.74
S.N. U.S Nomad in India.

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

FAQ

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.

  • If the airline 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.
  • Do my items get depreciated?
    Yes, generally they do. However, high-value items upgrades let you pay an additional premium per item so you can insure them for the value you bought them (if it's under the policy limits).