Travel insurance credit
World Nomads is offering eligible Australian and New Zealand travellers a travel insurance credit on unused policies due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
This is for eligible World Nomads customers excluding residents of the US, Canada, Brazil, China and the Philipines.
World Nomads recognises that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is an extraordinary circumstance that has affected many travellers around the world.
To help, we are offering eligible Australian and New Zealand resident travellers a travel insurance credit if you have been affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) travel bans.
If your trip has been put on hold and you can’t travel due to the current government travel bans and haven’t and don’t plan to use your policy, then you can apply for a travel insurance credit.
Credit offer redemption
Eligible customers who have received written confirmation of their offer of credit, can redeem this credit by purchasing a new policy and contacting us before June 30, 2021 to receive a refund on the original unused policy.
Terms of credit
-
Customers, with departure dates up to and including September 30, 2020 must apply for a credit offer by September 30, 2020. We will confirm your offer of credit in writing, once approved.
Who is eligible:
- This credit offer is available for to eligible Australian and New Zealand resident customers with an unused policy who cannot travel due to COVID-19 and the subsequent Australian and New Zealand Government travel restrictions.
Who is not eligible:
- The credit offer cannot be redeemed if you use the original policy in any way, such as:
- you have travelled or intend to travel on this policy;
- a claim is submitted or you want to exercise any other right under the policy;
- the policy is cancelled before the credit is redeemed.
- Policy holders who are not residents of Australia or New Zealand.
Redemption:
- To redeem a travel insurance credit, travellers must purchase a new travel insurance policy, subject to the eligibility requirements and terms of the PDS (and any SPDS) in Australia or the Policy Document in New Zealand active at the date the new policy is purchased, and request a refund for the original unused policy no later than June 30, 2021.
- Travel insurance credit is redeemed by refunding the original value of the policy after a new policy is purchased. It cannot be redeemed at the time of the new policy purchase or before;
- At least one insured traveller from the original unused policy needs to be listed on the new policy;
- Credit must be redeemed by June 30, 2021. Travel does not have to commence before this date;
Other important information:
- This offer of credit is not transferrable;
- Credit is applicable to the purchase of travel insurance which is managed by nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Limited on behalf of the underwriter.
- All insurance is subject to eligibility rules and policy terms and conditions made available at the time of booking. Rates and plans may change without notice. Any premium difference between any new policy and the original policy is payable by you at the time of purchase;
- We reserve the right to cancel the credit and any associated purchase without compensation if you do not comply with these terms and conditions.
Travel Insurance Credit
World Nomads is offering eligible Australian travellers a travel insurance credit on unused policies due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
This is for eligible World Nomads New Zealand customers.
World Nomads recognizes that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is an extraordinary circumstance that has affected many travelers around the world.
To help, we are offering eligible travellers a travel insurance credit if you have been affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) travel bans.
How to apply for a travel insurance credit
If your trip has been put on hold and you can’t travel due to the current government travel bans and haven’t and don’t plan to use your policy, then you can apply for a travel insurance credit by 31 March 2021.
To apply*, please fill in this credit request form. Eligible customers will be sent a confirmation of their credit.
* If you’ve already been in touch with us, you don’t have to reapply!
Credit offer redemption
Eligible customers who have received written confirmation of their offer of credit, can redeem this credit by purchasing a new policy and contacting us before 31 March 2022 to receive a refund on the original unused policy.
Terms of credit
Customers, with departure dates up to and including 31 March 2021 must apply for a credit offer by 31 March 2021. We will confirm your offer of credit in writing, once approved.
Who is eligible:
This credit offer is available for to eligible Australian and New Zealand resident customers with an unused policy who cannot travel due to COVID-19 and the subsequent Australian and New Zealand Government travel restrictions.
Who is not eligible:
- Policy holders who are residents of USA, Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines.
- The credit offer cannot be redeemed if you use the original policy in any way, such as:
- you have travelled or intend to travel on this policy.
- a claim is submitted or you want to exercise any other right under the policy.
- the policy is cancelled before the credit is redeemed.
Redemption:
- To redeem a travel insurance credit, travellers must purchase a new travel insurance policy, subject to the eligibility requirements and terms of the PDS (and any SPDS) in Australia, Policy Documents in the USA, or the Policy Document in New Zealand, United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe and other countries where World Nomads offers travel insurance (except Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines) active at the date the new policy is purchased, and request a refund for the original unused policy no later than 31 March 2022.
- Travel insurance credit is redeemed by refunding the original value of the policy after a new policy is purchased. It cannot be redeemed at the time of the new policy purchase or before;
- At least one insured traveller from the original unused policy needs to be listed on the new policy;
- Credit must be redeemed by 31 March 2022. For all other eligible residents, travel does not have to commence before this date.
Other important information:
- This offer of credit is not transferrable;
- Credit is applicable to the purchase of travel insurance which, in Australia and New Zealand is managed by nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Limited; in Europe nib Travel Services Europe Limited trading as nib Travel Services; and in all other countries (except Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines) nib Travel Services Limited on behalf of the underwriter.
- All insurance is subject to eligibility rules and policy terms and conditions made available at the time of booking. Rates and plans may change without notice. Any premium difference between any new policy and the original policy is payable by you at the time of purchase;
- We reserve the right to cancel the credit and any associated purchase without compensation if you do not comply with these terms and conditions.
Travel Insurance Credit
World Nomads is offering eligible travellers a travel insurance credit on unused policies due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
This is for eligible World Nomads customers excluding residents of USA, Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines. Please select your Country of Residence to view the terms applicable to you.
World Nomads recognizes that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is an extraordinary circumstance that has affected many travelers around the world.
To help, we are offering eligible travelers a travel insurance credit if you have been affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) travel bans. In addition, eligible travelers have the option to cancel their policy outside the cooling-off period and obtain a refund. You can request a refund here.
How to apply for a travel insurance credit
If your trip has been put on hold and you can’t travel due to the current government travel bans and haven’t and don’t plan to use your policy, then you can apply for a travel insurance credit by 31 March 2021.
To apply*, please fill in this credit request form. Eligible customers will be sent a confirmation of their credit.
* If you’ve already been in touch with us, you don’t have to reapply!
Credit offer redemption
Eligible customers who have received written confirmation of their offer of credit, can redeem this credit by purchasing a new policy and contacting us before 31 March 2023 to receive a refund on the original unused policy.
Terms of credit
Customers, with departure dates up to and including 31 March 2021 must apply for a credit offer by 31 March 2021. We will confirm your offer of credit in writing, once approved.
Who is eligible:
This credit offer is available to eligible customers from the Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe and other countries, where World Nomads offers travel insurance (except USA, Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines), with an unused policy who cannot travel due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the subsequent Government travel restrictions.
Who is not eligible:
- The credit offer cannot be redeemed if you use the original policy in any way, such as:
- you have traveled or intend to travel on this policy;
- a claim is submitted or you want to exercise any other right under the policy;
- the policy is cancelled before the credit is redeemed.
- Policy holders who are residents of USA, Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines.
Redemption:
- To redeem a travel insurance credit, travelers must purchase a new travel insurance policy, subject to the eligibility requirements and terms of the PDS (and any SPDS) in Australia, Policy Documents in the USA, or the policy wording in New Zealand, United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe and other countries where World Nomads offers travel insurance (except Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines) active at the date the new policy is purchased, and request a refund for the original unused policy no later than 31 March 2023.
- Travel insurance credit is redeemed by refunding the original value of the policy after a new policy is purchased. It cannot be redeemed at the time of the new policy purchase or before;
- At least one insured traveler from the original unused policy needs to be listed on the new policy;
- Credit must be redeemed by 31 March 2023. For all other eligible residents, travel does not have to commence before this date.
Other important information:
- This offer of credit is not transferrable;
- Credit is applicable to the purchase of travel insurance which, in Australia and New Zealand is managed by nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Limited; in Europe nib Travel Services Europe Limited trading as nib Travel Services; and in all other countries (except Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines) nib Travel Services Limited on behalf of the underwriter.
- All insurance is subject to eligibility rules and policy terms and conditions made available at the time of booking. Rates and plans may change without notice. Any premium difference between any new policy and the original policy is payable by you at the time of purchase;
- We reserve the right to cancel the credit and any associated purchase without compensation if you do not comply with these terms and conditions.
Travel Insurance Credit
World Nomads is offering eligible travelers a travel insurance credit on unused policies due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
This is for eligible World Nomads customers excluding residents of USA, Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines. Please select your Country of Residence to view the terms applicable to you.
World Nomads recognizes that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is an extraordinary circumstance that has affected many travelers around the world.
To help, we are offering eligible travelers a travel insurance credit if you have been affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) travel bans. In addition, eligible travelers have the option to cancel their policy outside the cooling-off period and obtain a refund. You can request a refund here.
How to apply for a travel insurance credit
If your trip has been put on hold and you can’t travel due to the current government travel bans and haven’t and don’t plan to use your policy, then you can apply for a travel insurance credit by 31 March 2021.
To apply*, please fill in this credit request form. Eligible customers will be sent a confirmation of their credit.
* If you’ve already been in touch with us, you don’t have to reapply!
Credit offer redemption
Eligible customers who have received written confirmation of their offer of credit, can redeem this credit by purchasing a new policy and contacting us before 31 March 2023 to receive a refund on the original unused policy.
Terms of credit
Customers, with departure dates up to and including 31 March 2021 must apply for a credit offer by 31 March 2021. We will confirm your offer of credit in writing, once approved.
Who is eligible:
This credit offer is available to eligible customers from the Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe and other countries, where World Nomads offers travel insurance (except USA, Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines), with an unused policy who cannot travel due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) and the subsequent Government travel restrictions.
Who is not eligible:
- The credit offer cannot be redeemed if you use the original policy in any way, such as:
- you have traveled or intend to travel on this policy;
- a claim is submitted or you want to exercise any other right under the policy;
- the policy is cancelled before the credit is redeemed.
- Policy holders who are residents of USA, Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines.
Redemption:
- To redeem a travel insurance credit, travelers must purchase a new travel insurance policy, subject to the eligibility requirements and terms of the PDS (and any SPDS) in Australia, Policy Documents in the USA, or the policy wording in New Zealand, United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe and other countries where World Nomads offers travel insurance (except Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines) active at the date the new policy is purchased, and request a refund for the original unused policy no later than 31 March 2023.
- Travel insurance credit is redeemed by refunding the original value of the policy after a new policy is purchased. It cannot be redeemed at the time of the new policy purchase or before;
- At least one insured traveler from the original unused policy needs to be listed on the new policy;
- Credit must be redeemed by 31 March 2023. For all other eligible residents, travel does not have to commence before this date.
Other important information:
- This offer of credit is not transferrable;
- Credit is applicable to the purchase of travel insurance which, in Australia and New Zealand is managed by nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Limited; in Europe nib Travel Services Europe Limited trading as nib Travel Services; and in all other countries (except Canada, Brazil, China or the Philippines) nib Travel Services Limited on behalf of the underwriter.
- All insurance is subject to eligibility rules and policy terms and conditions made available at the time of booking. Rates and plans may change without notice. Any premium difference between any new policy and the original policy is payable by you at the time of purchase;
- We reserve the right to cancel the credit and any associated purchase without compensation if you do not comply with these terms and conditions.
Does Travel Insurance Cover Dental?
Learn how travel insurance may cover emergency dental treatment abroad.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Broken or chipped teeth can happen at any time. It can be seeded bread in Berlin, olives in Athens or dried fish in Krasnodar. If pain suddenly strikes, World Nomads travel insurance can cover the emergency dental treatment you need to get relief so you can keep traveling.
What does travel insurance cover for overseas dental?
If you have to see a dentist while traveling for the immediate relief of sudden pain to healthy, natural teeth you can be covered if:
- You get an unexpected infection.
- You've broken your tooth.
- You injure your mouth or jaw in an accident.
- Your pre-existing condition leads to a clinical emergency.
Not all of our policies are the same. Limits, terms and conditions of cover vary depending on the policy you buy and your past dental history.
What’s not covered
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply, so be sure to read your full policy wording to avoid surprises. Here are the main things that aren't covered:
- General check-ups.
- Getting your teeth straightened in Thailand.
- New teeth or fillings following pain relieving treatment.
- Major dental work, such as crowns, dentures, bridges and implants.
- If you've bought a policy after the pain has set in.
- Non-emergency treatment that can wait until you return home (it's not health insurance, it's for travel emergencies).
If you purchase your policy after you’ve already left your home country, there is a 72 hour waiting period before cover begins.
This is not a full list of what's covered and what's not covered. It is important that you read and understand your policy before you travel as your coverage is subject to certain limitations and exclusions.
How to get dental assistance
If you're in a serious accident, it’s essential that you get in contact with our emergency 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.
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)
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 teamGet a travel insurance quote
Simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Get a quote
What to do if your luggage is delayed
- As featured in:
As featured in:
- Report the delay to your carrier immediately
- Obtain receipts for any purchasey
- Obtain a final report
- Need to know more?
- Does my insurance cover my tech?
1. Report the delay to your carrier immediately
Once you realise your baggage has been delayed, speak with a representative from your carrier (usually your airline) to report the delay. Ask them for a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or another official document. The report should state the reason for the delay as well as the date and time that your luggage is estimated to arrive.
Ask the carrier for some financial assistance to help you buy some everyday items such as toothpaste, deodorant or new underwear while you wait for your bags. If they refuse your request, then ask them to put the reason for their denial in writing to you. You must include this letter or report with your other documentation when submitting your claim for essential items.
2. Obtain receipts for any purchases
If you need to buy a few essentials to make life more comfortable until your bags arrive, then you’ll need to keep copies of your receipts should you wish to claim for these expenses.
Cover for essential items is only offered to travellers whose luggage is delayed for at least 12 hours after their scheduled arrival. If your luggage is returned to you within 12 hours of arriving, you can't claim for essential items.
Therefore, only receipts showing a date and time which is at least 12 hours after your scheduled arrival, and before the delivery time of your luggage, will be covered.
3. Obtain a final report
After you get your bags, ask your carrier for another report stating the reason for the delay, the length of the delay, as well as the date and time the luggage was returned to you.
A few points to consider if you wish to claim for essential items
Before you rush out to your favourite designer’s shop to buy this season’s must-haves, please remember that only reasonably necessary items may be covered under our policies. Some examples could include toiletries, prescription medications or new underwear.
These are items to help you stay clean, fresh, and comfortable until your baggage is returned to you.
There is no cover for essential items if your luggage is delayed on your return home to Australia.
Both our Standard and Explorer plans have different daily limits of cover. Please read through your PDS to make sure you’re aware of the limits, benefits and exclusions that relate to your policy.
4. Need to know more?
This information could help you if things go wrong and you want to make a claim. 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. Your PDS will always have the full terms, conditions and exclusions that apply.
If you have questions about what’s covered and not covered, just ask us.
Does my insurance cover my tech?
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for Backpacking
US residents can stay protected on the trail - essential travel insurance coverage for backpackers
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At a glance:
- Backpacking travel insurance may help if your trip is interrupted, your gear is stolen, or you’re injured on the trail.
- World Nomads offers plans with coverage for emergency medical expenses, baggage loss, trip cancellations, and 250+ adventure activities.
- Coverage varies by plan, including treks up to 26,247 feet/8,000 meters with the Epic Plan.
- Optional Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) coverage adds flexibility if plans change unexpectedly (must be added within 7 days of first deposit for your trip).
- Access pre-trip telehealth to get essential meds, like altitude sickness pills or necessary vaccinations, before you go.
- How can I protect my backpacking trip with travel insurance coverage?
- Why you may want to consider travel insurance to protect your backpacking trip
- Backpacking Travel Insurance Benefits
- What's not covered
- Top tips for backpackers
- FAQs
Just you, your pack, and the open road. Backpacking is a rite of passage for nomads chasing big experiences on a small budget.
Whether you're out to find your crew or yourself, travel insurance coverage can help if things go off track.
World Nomads Travel Insurance covers backpackers exploring Thailand, Vietnam, South America, Europe and beyond.
How can I protect my backpacking trip with travel insurance coverage?
Backpacking looks different for every traveler—maybe you're hostel-hopping across Europe and want protection in case your gear gets stolen, or you’re trekking through the Andes where emergency medical expense coverage could be very helpful. That’s why World Nomads Travel Insurance offers flexible travel protection plans for backpackers, with coverage designed to match your style of adventure. From safeguarding your belongings to covering accidents at high altitudes, we’ve got your back.
-
Standard Plan
covers backpacking trips up to
19,685 feet/6,000 meters -
Explorer plan
covers backpacking trips up to
21,325 feet/6,500 meters -
Epic plan
covers backpacking trips up to
26,247 feet/8,000 meters -
Annual plan
covers backpacking trips up to
19,685 feet/6,000 meters
Plus, our plans include coverage for 250+ other activities you might do along the way, so you can explore confidently, wherever your backpack leads you.
Why you may want to consider travel insurance to protect your backpacking trip
Backpacking is all about freedom and spontaneity—but that flexibility also comes with risk. From sprained ankles on rocky trails to food poisoning in rural villages or stolen gear on overnight buses, the unexpected can derail your trip fast. That’s where travel insurance for backpackers can help—covering emergency medical expenses, trip interruptions, evacuations from high-altitude regions, and lost or stolen passports. And if your plans change before you even leave, optional Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage may reimburse you for non-refundable, unused trip costs—ideal for travelers who like to keep their options open. Whether you're trekking through South America or hopping between hidden towns in Southeast Asia, having the right coverage gives you the confidence to go wherever the trail takes you. Certain conditions and limitations apply.
What travel insurance benefits could cover you and your backpacking trip?
World Nomads offers coverage (up to the plan maximum benefit amount) for:
- Medical expenses:if you get hurt while backpacking and need medical attention, our accident and sickness medical expense insurance benefit may provide reimbursement for the treatment you need.
- Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation: If your injuries are severe, acute, or life-threatening our plans may cover evacuation and transportation to a medical facility best suited for your care, subject to approval from the treating medical physician and the non-insurance 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team.
- Baggage and personal effects protection: Our gear coverage may help with reimbursement of the cost to repair or replace damaged, lost or stolen items, including airline checked bags.
- Trip cancellation: if you need to cancel your trip due to a covered reason such as an unexpected illness, we may be able to reimburse your pre-paid, unused, non-refundable expenses like flights, tours and accommodations. Want even more freedom to cancel? Check out the optional ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ benefit available on some plans (additional cost applies; not available in NY).
- Natural disaster evacuation assistance: if unforeseen severe weather or natural disaster event puts a stop to your trekking adventure, your plan may cover costs to get you out of there and to the nearest place of safety. Certain conditions and limitations apply.
Get a travel insurance quote
Simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Get a quoteWhat may not be covered by the travel protection plan for backpackers?
Here are a few things we may not cover:
- Being under the influence of narcotics.
- Travel within 100 miles of your home.
- Unattended baggage, sporting equipment or personal items.
- Wear and tear from everyday use of sporting equipment. Gear that is in use is not covered.
Top tips for backpackers
Here are some pointers to help keep you covered while backpacking.
- For you, does backpacking = hiking or mountain climbing? Make sure you select the right plan for your adventure sport or activities. Our article on covered sports and activities should help you decide on whether to buy a Standard, Explorer, Epic or Annual plan, as they have different levels of coverage.
- Going wherever the breeze blows? If you want to cross the border, check with our customer service team first as your plan may not apply in all countries.
- Traveling long-term: You can buy another plan for more travel insurance coverage while abroad (waiting periods may apply) even if you don’t have a return ticket. And if you plan to take numerous trips during the year, then the Annual Multi-Trip plan could be best for you.
- Stay healthy: hiking requires a certain amount of strength and stamina, and in some cases (like the Inca Trail or trekking in Nepal), the ability to handle altitude. It’s best to be sure you are physically capable of it. Consider using our non-insurance service partner to initiate an online consultation to obtain prescription medications for the most common travel needs, like altitude sickness pills, delivered to your door before you leave on your trip (costs may apply).
- Keep your receipts and paperwork:any claim you make will need supporting documentation such as receipts of your purchases and a loss or theft report. Keep these with you in printed or digital form if you need to make a claim.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for backpacking. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team
-
What does travel insurance cover for backpacking trips?
Travel insurance for your backpacking trip can help cover emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, stolen gear, emergency evacuations, and more. World Nomads offers flexible plans that include coverage for 250+ activities you might encounter on the road.
-
Do I need travel insurance for a backpacking trip?
Only you can decide your travel insurance needs however our plans were created with backpackers – and their unique circumstances - in mind. Whether you're trekking in high altitudes or navigating unfamiliar cities, the right travel insurance coverage can protect you from unexpected bills due to injuries, illness, theft, and trip disruptions.
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Is emergency evacuation included in backpacking travel insurance?
Yes, our travel insurance coverage includes emergency evacuation. If you’re seriously injured or become unexpectedly ill while backpacking. If you’re in a remote area and need transport to the nearest adequate medical facility, the Medical Evacuation and Repatriation of Remains benefit may help cover the cost – which can easily run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Evacuation must be deemed medically necessary by the attending physician and approved by the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. Always check your plans’ elevation limits and covered activities to make sure you’re protected for your specific adventure.
- The Standard and Annual plans cover hikes up to 19,685 feet (6,000 meters)
- The Explorer plan covers up to 21,325 feet (6,500 meters)
- The Epic plan extends coverage up to 26,247 feet (8,000 meters)
-
Does the travel insurance coverage include protection for stolen backpacks or gear?
Yes, backpacking gear and equipment may be covered under the baggage and personal effects benefit of our plans if it’s lost, stolen, or accidentally damaged during your trip. Coverage maximum benefits amounts and conditions vary by plan, so be sure to review your chosen plan documents – especially if your carrying high-value items like trekking poles, boots, or GPS devices. Note: coverage does not include wear and tear, or gear damaged during use. Additional terms and conditions apply.
-
Can I cancel my backpacking trip and get reimbursed?
If you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason—like an unexpected illness or injury—your plan may reimburse the pre-paid, unused, non-refundable trip costs with the ‘trip cancellation’ benefit. Want more flexibility? World Nomads offers optional Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage if you buy it within 7 days of your first trip deposit. Optional ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ benefit is available on some plans (additional cost applies; not available in NY).
-
Am I covered for high-altitude trekking while backpacking?
Yes, but coverage depends on your plan. World Nomads offers multiple plans that cover hiking and trekking at different altitudes—from lower elevation hikes to epic multi-day routes up to 8,000 meters (26,247 feet).
-
Can I buy travel insurance after my backpacking trip has started?
Yes, with World Nomads you can purchase travel insurance and non-insurance services even if you’ve already started your trip. Waiting periods may apply for certain benefits, so it’s best to buy coverage early.
-
What should I do if I get sick while backpacking abroad?
If you become ill while backpacking, your travel protection plan may help with reimbursement of medical expenses. If Emergency Medical Evacuation is required it must be deemed medically necessary by the attending physician and approved by the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. Always check your plan’s elevation limits and covered activities to make sure you're protected for your specific adventure.
Need destination inspiration for your next backpacking trip?
When you buy a World Nomads Travel Insurance plan, rest assured that your coverage has been crafted by passionate travelers who have lugged backpacks, battled bedbugs, and fought with food poisoning along the way as well. For trip ideas and tips, check out our article on backpacking dos and don’ts, as well as some of our favorite backpacking trips:
Climbing Kilimanjaro: What to Know and How to Prepare
6 Backpacking Tips for Staying Safe in Thailand
2 Week Thailand Itinerary: Get Your Day-by-Day Travel Guide
How Traveling Cheaply Can Also Be Good for the Planet
This is not a full list of what is and isn’t covered, so please check your plan document for a full list of maximums, terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply to your state specific plan. Any example scenarios provided above are not a guarantee of coverage. All claims are subject to review, require documentation and are considered individually. Exclusion applies to Adventure or Extreme Activities.
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
- Work emergency?
- Weather delay?
- Travel companion sick?
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
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
- Need a hospital?
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
- Ambulance transfers
- Medevac flights
- Medical escort services
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Stolen I.D.s
- Checked-in sports equipment
- Damaged luggage
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for Digital Nomads
Learn how your tech could be covered while you're working or traveling overseas.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Protecting your gadgets is an important part of travel, taking your gadgets on the road is just as common and essential as packing an extra pair of socks. That's why our travel insurance plans have been designed for digital nomads.
Double check the specific terms and conditions of your policy as there may be limits to what you can claim depending on the premium you have paid and what happens to your equipment while on the road.
- Why travel insurance is important for digital nomads?
- How are my electronics covered?
- Countries offering digital Nomad visas to travelers globally
- Does my travel insurance cover my tech?
- What's not covered by travel insurance?
- FAQs for digital nomads
Why travel insurance is important for digital nomads?
Travel insurance may not always be required, but when that illness, injury, baggage delay or trip interruption occurs, and you’re left out in the cold in a foreign country it could come in very handy. World Nomads may offer travel insurance for several events, some of these include:
- Hospitalization due to a severe injury or illness
- A flight is delayed or canceled.
- If your bags and valuables are delayed, stolen or damaged.
- When you urgently need 24-hour Emergency Assistance.
- If you’re planning to be active and doing outdoor adventures (we offer over 200+ activities, sports and experiences).
- If you need cover for a multi-destination trip.
- If you’re travelling with family and need cover for dependants.
- Cover for some Coronavirus-related events.
How are my electronics covered?
World Nomads may be able to replace, repair or recover the costs of your tech devices when stolen, lost or damaged under your supervision, in certain circumstances. Benefits are available only after exhausting other sources of compensation, such as from your common carrier (this can be a public airline, bus or train company licensed to carry passengers for a fee, excluding taxis and rental vehicle companies, and operating to regular public schedules/timetables).
Remember, depreciation and wear and tear on your gear are taken into account when we review your claim, and claims are subject to per item limit and total maximum benefit amount, which can be found in your policy wording.
In the event that your equipment is delayed, lost and/or accidentally damaged by a common carrier, you must report the incident as soon as reasonably possible to a responsible officer for the carrier.
You must also get a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or a similar official report and make a claim directly with the carrier as a first step.
Get a travel insurance quote from World Nomads today.
Countries that offer digital Nomad visas to travelers globally
- Portugal – Digital Nomad Visa
- Estonia – Digital Nomad Visa
- Croatia – Digital Nomad Temporary Stay Visa
- Germany – Freelance "Freiberufler" Visa
- Spain – Digital Nomad Visa (part of the Startup Act)
- Mexico – Temporary Resident Visa
- Costa Rica – Rentista Visa
- Iceland – Long-Term Remote Work Visa
- Barbados – Welcome Stamp Program
- Dubai (UAE) – Virtual Working Program
- Malta – Nomad Residence Permit
- Georgia – Remotely from Georgia Program
- Greece – Digital Nomad Visa
- Mauritius – Premium Travel Visa
- Norway – Independent Contractor Visa
- Czech Republic – Zivno Visa
- Hungary – White Card Visa
- Romania – Digital Nomad Visa
- Bermuda – Work from Bermuda Certificate
- Anguilla – Work from Anguilla Program
For more information on digital nomad visas please refer to the visa guide website.
Does my insurance cover my tech?
Watch the video to learn how our travel policy can provide cover for all of your tech gear during your travels.
What's not covered by travel insurance?
- When you mindlessly leave your gear behind (like that time when you forgot your very expensive camera and lenses in a taxi on your way to the airport).
- Whenever you leave items (including tablets, laptops, photographic or video equipment, mobile phones and other hand-held devices) unattended, including in a car, boat, tent or camper trailer or checked in with your common carrier.
- Gear or equipment that you use for professional purposes.
- Electronic malfunctions (you'll have to hit up the manufacturer).
- When you fail to file a loss or theft report with the local authorities or the representative of the venue where it took place, such as a common carrier, tour operator or other travel provider.
This is not a full list of what's covered and not covered. Other terms, conditions and exclusions may apply so please read your policy carefully.
If you’re not sure if something is covered or how to claim, contact us and we’ll let you know.
Tips for digital nomads
- travelling, understand the requirements for digital nomad visas and ensure your World Nomads travel insurance policy aligns with the country’s health and travel regulations.
- Find and scan your receipts before you leave.
- If an airline loses your gadgets, notify them right away and get a record.
- Theft? Report it to the police as soon as possible.
- Password protect your devices and enable the lock screen if possible.
Bag snatched in Latvia.
It was my final day in Riga, Latvia. In my small bag I keep all my valuables, because hostels can't always be reliable with safekeeping. It contained my new GoPro, Iphone, digital camera, laptop and hard drive, plus my emergency money (200 euros). I planned on using my cameras and computer for editing later that afternoon. The coast was amazing and, as it got late, I decided to take the train back to Riga city. As I was getting off the train, down the vertical steep steps, I had my bag snatched off my shoulder. In seconds, the doors closed and the train pulled off. Telling authorities on the platforms immediately, they could not assist and referred me straight to the police. Feeling helpless, I went to the police where I was kept for hours, because of English barriers and translations of documents. I walked out just after midnight with my report. A day trip I won't forget soon.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about protection for tech gear and digital nomad travel insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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What are the requirements to get a digital nomad visa?
Each country has specific requirements, but generally, digital nomad visas require proof of income, travel insurance, and accommodation plans. Some may also require a valid employment contract or proof of self-employment. Be sure to check each country’s specific requirements before applying.
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Do I need travel insurance for a digital nomad visa?
Yes, most digital nomad visas require proof of travel insurance or health insurance that covers you for the entire duration of your stay in the foreign country.
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If I've not specified my items, why do they get depreciated?
Electronics age and get knocked about. Depreciation happens to match the claim with the item's current price, not cost price.
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If my electronics are out of warranty, can I claim if there's a malfunction?
The policies excludes cover where there's an electronic malfunction.
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Why won't you cover my electronics if they're checked-in with an airline?
Because electronics are fragile and checked-in luggage can easily be damaged.
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What if I don't have receipts for all of my items?
You'll need to show a proof of ownership - enough evidence to 'tip the balance' if you're lodging a claim.
