Travel insurance for the Caribbean
Essential travel insurance tips
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At a glance
- World Nomads offers four travel insurance plans for your trip to the Caribbean. Plans range from standard to higher-limit protections.
- Coverage may apply to popular activities in the Caribbean like hiking, horse riding and diving.
- Policies for Canadians include protection for medical emergencies, trip interruptions and lost luggage.
Deciding where to go in the Caribbean comes down to the kind of experience you’re after. Places like Jamaica and the Dominican Republic bring energy, music and beach life, while islands like St Lucia and Grenada balance dramatic scenery with a slower pace. In the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, it’s all about clear water, reefs and easy island hopping. No matter where you go, you can choose your rhythm – beach days and water sports, adrenaline-charged adventures beyond your resort or simply slowing down – cocktail in hand. Distances between islands are short, making it easy to mix and match experiences on a single trip. The Dominican Republic is the most popular Caribbean destination for Canadian travellers, thanks to direct flights, affordability and year-round great weather.
Plan Comparisons
Choosing the right travel insurance coverage depends on your trip type and planned activities. We offer four plans – Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual – each with different coverages or levels of coverage.
| Standard Plan | Explorer Plan | Epic Plan | Annual Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Covering the basics for your trip to the Caribbean. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' available. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' available. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Get a quote |
Travel insurance for adventure activities in the Caribbean
Whether you stay on the coast or venture inland, there’s plenty here to keep you moving in the Caribbean. Dive or snorkel coral reefs in the Bahamas or Turks and Caicos, swim with stingrays in Grand Cayman or head out on sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding trips between islands. In St Lucia, hike the volcanic peaks of the Pitons or zipline through rainforest canopy, while in Jamaica, there’s everything from scuba diving to horse riding along the beach. The Dominican Republic offers mountain biking, canyoning and waterfall hikes inland, while Puerto Rico’s El Yunque rainforest is all about trails, rivers and natural pools.
Coverage for 250 activities you love + more
Common insurance considerations for the Caribbean
Accidents and emergencies
No one likes imagining the worst, but if you do get seriously sick or have an accident that sends you to hospital, you’ll be glad you purchased travel insurance before you left home. Had a car accident in Jamaica? Cut your foot on a coral reef and ended up in hospital? Ate dodgy street food and got a bad bout of food poisoning? Emergency assistance is a phone call away.
Trip Cancellation
The best trips are often the ones you’ve planned months in advance, but you can’t predict the future and unexpected situations can sometimes happen before you even set off. Trip cancellation coverage is included in all single-trip and annual travel insurance plans offered by World Nomads and gives you the opportunity to cancel your trip before you depart – but only for covered reasons. Optional Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to cancel for any reason that’s not otherwise covered by your plan. Broke up with your partner? You can cancel your trip. Sick dog? You can stay home. Change your mind about travelling? There’s no judgment here. Just make sure you purchase Cancel For Any Reason insurance cover within 15 days of making your first trip payment (like booking a hotel or flight).
Emergency evacuation
If you get seriously sick or injured but you’re far from appropriate medical facilities, emergency evacuation and repatriation insurance can help get you the care you need. It may cover, up to the policy limits, the cost to get you to the closest appropriate medical facility or to your home province for further treatment. Under your World Nomads plan, emergency evacuation may be covered if it’s recommended by the attending physician and pre-approved by our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. This benefit could include transportation costs and any related medical services or supplies. If you’re in hospital for three days or more, it may also include the transportation of a family member or companion to your bedside or the return of a dependent child back to your home.
Trip interruption
No matter how good of a time you’re having, things can happen that mean you have to finish your trip early or you’re unable to participate in your full planned itinerary. If you get severely injured or sick while you're travelling, or you get a call from back home and learn that an immediate family member has unexpectedly passed away, you may not be able to complete the rest of your planned trip. World Nomads offers trip interruption coverage that may help you get reimbursed for prepaid, non-refundable travel costs if your plans change for a covered reason.
Tips for travelling to the Caribbean
- Hurricane season runs from June to November, so check weather conditions and travel insurance before booking
- Pack light, breathable clothing, along with reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
- Follow local advice on swimming conditions, as currents can be strong on some beaches
- Book popular resorts and experiences early, especially in peak season (December to April)
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for the Caribbean. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
-
Do Canadians need a visa to visit the Caribbean?
Visa requirements vary by island. Many Caribbean destinations are visa-free for Canadians for short stays, but it’s best to check entry requirements for each country before you travel.
-
What is the best time to visit the Caribbean?
December to April is the most popular time, with dry, sunny weather. June to November is hurricane season, with higher humidity and a greater chance of storms.
-
Is the Caribbean safe for travellers?
Most Caribbean destinations are safe to visit, especially in resort areas. As with any destination, stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions in busy or unfamiliar areas.
-
Can I drink tap water in the Caribbean?
Tap water is safe on some islands but not all. If in doubt, stick to bottled or filtered water.
-
What currency is used in the Caribbean?
Currencies vary by island. Some use local currencies, while US dollars are widely accepted in many destinations.
-
What is the best way to get around?
Flights are the quickest way to travel between islands, while ferries operate in some regions. On individual islands, taxis and rental cars are common.
-
Do I need travel insurance for the Caribbean?
Travel insurance isn’t mandatory, but it’s strongly recommended. Cover for accidents, medical emergencies, cancellations, delays and lost luggage can help protect you against unexpected costs. Whether you’re in a major city or off adventuring in a more remote location, it’s reassuring to know you can get the help you need – especially when it comes to an accident or sudden illness.
-
How do I make a travel insurance claim?
You can make a claim online 24/7. Have your documents and receipts handy to upload, and get started. If you get stuck, you can call us collect on +1 416 646 3723 or send an email to worldnomads@travelguard.com and we will assist you with your claim.
-
What do I do if I need emergency assistance?
No matter where you are in the world, our 24/7 Emergency Assistance partners at Travel Guard are ready to help – 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Whether it’s a medical emergency, stolen gear, missing bags, or a natural disaster, they’re the first call to make. Need a translator? They can help with that too.
When you call, you’ll be asked if you are experiencing a travel emergency. If you are having a medical emergency, you’ll be connected with Emergency Assistance right away. If your situation is not urgent and you are calling outside of normal business hours, you’ll be able to leave a message and be called back.
The contact information for medical emergency assistance is:
Phone: +1 866 878 0192 (toll-free from Canada and the Continental U.S.); or
Phone: +1 416 646 3723 (collect from anywhere else in the world)
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalized?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medevac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
Travel Insurance for the Caribbean
Travel advice for Americans visiting the Caribbean
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At a glance
- World Nomads offers four travel protection plans for your trip to the Caribbean. Plans range from standard to higher-limit protections.
- Coverage may apply to popular activities in the Caribbean like swimming, horse riding and scuba diving.
- Policies for Americans include protection for medical emergencies, trip interruptions and lost luggage.
Deciding where to go in the Caribbean comes down to the kind of experience you’re after. Places like Jamaica bring energy, music and beach life, while islands like St Lucia and Grenada balance dramatic scenery with a slower pace. In the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, it’s all about clear water, reefs and easy island hopping. No matter where you go, you can choose your rhythm – beach days and water sports, adrenaline-charged adventures beyond your resort or simply slowing down – fruity drink in hand. Distances between islands are short, making it easy to mix and match experiences on a single trip. The Dominican Republic is one of the more popular Caribbean destinations for American travelers, thanks to direct flights, affordability and great Spring Break weather.
Plan Comparisons
Choosing the right travel protection coverage depends on your trip type and planned activities. Each of our four plans – Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual – offers different coverages and benefit maximums.
| Standard Plan | Explorer Plan | Epic Plan | Annual Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Covering the basics for your trip to the Caribbean. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' available.* Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' available.* Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
|
Travel insurance for adventure activities in the Caribbean
Whether you stay on the coast or venture inland, there’s plenty here to keep you moving in the Caribbean. Dive or snorkel coral reefs in the Bahamas or Turks and Caicos, swim with stingrays in Grand Cayman or head out on sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding trips between islands. In St Lucia, hike the volcanic peaks of the Pitons or zipline through rainforest canopy, while in Jamaica, there’s everything from scuba diving to horse riding along the beach. The Dominican Republic offers mountain biking, canyoning and waterfall hikes inland, while Puerto Rico’s El Yunque rainforest is all about trails, rivers and natural pools.
Coverage for activities in The Caribbean
Common insurance considerations for the Caribbean
Accidents and emergencies
No one likes imagining the worst, but if you do get sick or have an accident that sends you to the hospital, you’ll be glad you purchased travel protection before you left home. Cut your foot on a coral reef and ended up in the hospital? Ate dodgy street food and got a bad bout of food poisoning? Emergency assistance is a phone call away. All World Nomads plans include non-insurance services like portable health records. This enables medical staff to access your records 24/7. Having that information available may be critical if you experience an unexpected medical emergency while travelling.
Trip Cancellation
The best trips are often the ones you’ve planned months in advance, but you can’t predict the future and unexpected situations can sometimes happen before you even set off. Trip cancellation coverage is included in all single-trip and annual travel protection plans offered by World Nomads and gives you the opportunity to cancel your trip before you depart – but only for covered reasons. Optional Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to cancel for any reason that’s not otherwise covered by your plan. Broke up with your partner? You can cancel your trip. Sick dog? You can stay home. Change your mind about traveling? There’s no judgment here. Just make sure you purchase the Cancel For Any Reason benefit within 7 days of making your first trip payment (like booking a hotel or flight) and remember to cancel no later than two days before your departure date. Additional cost, terms and conditions apply; not available to New York residents.
Emergency evacuation
If you get sick or injured and your condition is acute, severe, or life threatening and you’re far from suitable medical facilities, emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage may help get you the care you need. It may cover, up to the maximum benefit amount, to get you to the closest suitable medical facility or to your primary residence for further treatment. Under your World Nomads plan, emergency evacuation may be covered if it’s recommended by the attending physician and pre-approved by our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. This benefit could include transportation costs and any related medical services or supplies.
Trip interruption
No matter how good of a time you’re having, things can happen that mean you have to finish your trip early or you’re unable to participate in your full planned itinerary. If you get injured or sick while you're traveling, or you get a call from back home and learn that an immediate family member has unexpectedly passed away, you may not be able to complete the rest of your planned trip. World Nomads offers trip interruption coverage that may help you get reimbursed for prepaid, non-refundable travel costs if your plans change for a covered reason.
Tips we recommend for traveling to the Caribbean
- Hurricane season runs from June to November, so check weather conditions and consider travel insurance before booking
- Pack light, breathable clothing, along with reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent
- Follow local advice on swimming conditions, as currents can be strong on some beaches
- Book popular resorts and experiences early, especially in peak season (December to April)
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for the Caribbean. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
-
Do Americans need a visa to visit the Caribbean?
Visa requirements vary by island. Many Caribbean destinations are visa-free for Americans for short stays, but it’s best to check entry requirements for each country before you travel.
-
What is the best time to visit the Caribbean?
December to April is the most popular time, with dry, sunny weather. June to November is hurricane season, with higher humidity and a greater chance of storms.
-
Is the Caribbean safe for travelers?
Most, but not all, Caribbean destinations are safe to visit, especially in resort areas. As with any destination, stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions in busy or unfamiliar areas. Follow US Department of State travel advisories. You may want to consider travel insurance for those unexpected situations that arise.
-
Can I drink tap water in the Caribbean?
Tap water is safe on some islands but not all. If in doubt, stick to bottled or filtered water.
-
What currency is used in the Caribbean?
Currencies vary by island. Some use local currencies, while US dollars are widely accepted in many destinations.
-
What is the best way to get around?
Flights are the quickest way to travel between islands, while ferries operate in some regions. On individual islands, taxis and rental cars are common.
-
What if my passport gets stolen in the Caribbean?
World Nomads travel protection plans cover theft or damage of the following documents:
- Passports
- Driver’s licenses
- Birth certificates
- Travel visas
You can claim up to the maximum limit stated in the policy towards the replacement of your passport or one or more other travel documents mentioned above.
-
Do I need travel insurance for the Caribbean?
Travel insurance isn’t mandatory, but it’s strongly recommended. Benefits for accidents, medical emergencies, cancellations, delays and lost luggage can help protect you against unexpected costs. Whether you’re in a major city or off adventuring in a more remote location, it’s reassuring to know you can get the help you need – especially when it comes to an accident or sudden illness. All World Nomads plans for US residents include insurance benefits and additional non-insurance services like access to pre-trip medical support. A telehealth consultation can help you with a customized medical plan based on your destination. This may help you prepare for health concerns before you go and the best ways to avoid travel-related illnesses.
-
How do I make a travel insurance claim?
You can make a claim online 24/7. Have your documents and receipts handy to upload and get started. If you get stuck, you can call us collect on +1 844-207-1930 and we can assist you with your claim.
-
What do I do if I need emergency assistance?
No matter where you are in the world, our 24/7 non-insurance Emergency Assistance partners at Generali Global Assistance are ready to help – 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Whether it’s a medical emergency, stolen gear, missing bags, or a natural disaster, they’re the first call to make. Need a translator? They can help with that too.
When you call, you’ll be asked if you are experiencing a travel emergency. If you are having a medical emergency, you’ll be connected with Emergency Assistance right away. If your situation is not urgent and you are calling outside of normal business hours, you’ll be able to leave a message and be called back.
The contact information for medical emergency assistance is:
Phone: +1 (877) 289-0968 (toll-free from the Continental US); or
Phone: +1 (954) 334-8143 (collect from anywhere else in the world)
Need destination inspiration for the Caribbean?
Not sure where your next adventure should take you? Take a look at these travel and safety ideas and get destination-specific travel insurance tips to help you plan with confidence.
Transport in Barbados: How to Travel Around Safely
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalized?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medevac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
Travel insurance for volunteering
Get coverage for your good deeds
- 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.
At World Nomads, our travel insurance allows you to participate in a range of volunteer activities and vacations, from summer teaching programs to clean water projects. We’re strong supporters of paying it forward and giving back — and what better way to strengthen communities, forge meaningful connections and open your eyes (and arms and hearts) than contributing to a worthy purpose?
What’s covered for volunteers?
Want to step out into the world and volunteer your time? If you need travel insurance because you want to volunteer abroad, or you’re planning a volunteer vacation, World Nomads plans may cover:
- Trip disruption
- Emergency medical expenses
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Baggage delay
- Theft of baggage and personal belongings
What volunteer activities may I participate in?
We provide travel insurance for a range of non-manual volunteer activities involving light duties only which may include:
- Retail work such as helping out in a co-op shop.
- Teaching.
- Clerical work.
- Child care.
- Some volunteering in communities on projects.
For all volunteer work you must wear the right gear, have the right training and be supervised appropriately. When you purchase the travel insurance be sure to add the activity to your quote so it’s included in your policy. Some kinds of volunteering require an optional upgrade to your travel insurance cover. If you pay for the optional upgrade, coverage under your policy may also include volunteer work for manual and non-manual work such as:
- World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) .
- Environmental and conservation work that involves general farm-hand activities.
- Manual work including general cleaning, maintenance or bartending
Which volunteer activities are excluded
Some volunteer activities may not be covered as they’re just too risky for us to cover, for example volunteer fire-fighting or activities in places known to be unsafe or dangerous. This includes volunteer work that includes:
- Work performed over 2 meters above ground level
- Work performed offshore or underground, including as a guide
- Operating mechanical or industrial machinery.
- Working with dangerous animals and / or big game.
- Work as an instructor or guide including scuba diving, skiing, snowboarding, underground in caves and where ropes or other specialist equipment is required
If you’re not sure, contact us and we’ll tell you if you’re covered.
What’s not covered?
As a global citizen contributing to good causes, we hope that you’ll act responsibly and within your limits. But just to be clear, we won’t cover any incidents related to:
- Alcohol or drug abuse.
- Reckless behaviour.
- Criminal or illegal acts.
- Changing your mind about your trip.
- Pre-existing medical conditions (refer to your policy wording for cover on pregnancy for residents of Denmark)
- Any volunteer work over 2 meters in height.
- Personal liability – this means, for example, if you injure someone due to your negligence in the course of volunteering.
- Anything that is not explicitly listed as covered under your policy
This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered.
If haven’t yet chosen a volunteer program, you can find inspiration in our article about choosing ethical volunteer programs.
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 volunteering insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
-
Will travel insurance cover me for countries other than those listed on my policy?
That depends on your policy and your country of residence. You may have to put in a request with the customer service team for a country to be added to your policy.
-
Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed for accidents or unexpected illnesses overseas. They don't stand in place of primary medical insurance or your home country's health system.
-
Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what’s happened. If it’s an emergency situation, where medical evacuation is required, World Nomads will try and cover these costs upfront (provided the incident is covered as per the policy wording and you get pre-approval from the Emergency Medical Assistance team). You must contact World Nomads 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance if you have a medical emergency.
Travel insurance for volunteering
Get cover for your good deeds
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Kiwis have always loved to volunteer — be it at the local school tuck shop, or further afield in another country. If you want to volunteer while you travel abroad, World Nomads Travel Insurance is a strong supporter of paying it forward and giving back too.
Our travel insurance allows you to participate in a range of volunteer activities and vacations, from summer teaching programs to clean water projects. What better way to strengthen communities, forge meaningful connections and open eyes (and hearts) than by contributing to a worthy purpose?
What’s covered for volunteers?
Want to step out into the world and volunteer your time? If you need volunteer travel insurance because you want to volunteer overseas, or you’re planning a volunteer vacation, World Nomads travel insurance plans may include coverage for:
- Trip cancellation
- Trip interruption
- Medical emergency care
- Emergency evacuation
- Baggage delay
- Theft of baggage and personal belongings
What volunteer activities may I participate in?
While we don’t cover all kinds of volunteering (see the exclusions listed below) the kinds of volunteer work we might cover include:
- Hospitality which, for example might include serving the homeless dinner.
- Retail work such as helping out in a co-op shop.
- Teaching
- Clerical work.
- Childcare
If you purchase a higher level of travel insurance cover, you may have travel insurance coverage for volunteer work such as:
- Manual work or work with power tools or working under 5 metres in height.
- Volunteer instructor or guide of a covered sport or activity if you have the appropriate qualification, certification or license to participate in this covered sport, activity or experience.
Make sure you add the activity when you purchase your travel insurance so it’s included in your policy. If you can’t find the activity in our list, contact us for help.
Which volunteer activities are excluded
Some volunteer activities may not be covered as they’re just too risky, for example volunteer fire-fighting, panther minding or activities in places known to be unsafe or dangerous. This includes volunteer work that is:
- Work performed over 5 metres in height.
- Work performed offshore, underground or in caves.
- Operating machinery.
- Working with dangerous animals and / or big game.
What else isn’t covered?
As a global citizen contributing to good causes, we hope you’ll act responsibly and within your limits! But just to be clear, we won’t cover any incidents related to:
- Alcohol or drug abuse.
- Reckless behavior.
- Criminal or illegal acts.
- Changing your mind.
- Existing medical conditions unless specified under your Policy Document.
- Third party compensation and legal expenses.
- Your legal and personal liability following professional advice or other services performed by you as a volunteer.
This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your Policy Document in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered.
If haven’t yet chosen a volunteer program, you can find inspiration in our article about choosing ethical volunteer programs.
- Buy while travelling
- Get cover 24/7 online
- Instant confirmation
- Ongoing traveler support
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance
Waiting periods apply
It's not always fun.
Due to mishap, my frenulum on my penis got severely damaged. During intercourse with my girlfriend it nearly ripped and caused me a lot of pain and blood. I went to the doctor and he operated on it. Now everything is okay again.
Danish Resident.
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 deceased?
- Close relative dropped dead?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need drugs?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Luggage lost?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about volunteering while traveling. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team.
-
Will travel insurance cover me for countries other than those listed on my policy?
That depends on your policy and your country of residence. You may have to put in a request with the customer service team for a country to be added to your policy.
-
Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed for accidents or unexpected illnesses overseas. They don't stand in place of primary medical insurance or your home health system.
-
Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what’s happened. If it’s an emergency situation where medical evacuation is required, World Nomads may cover these costs upfront. You must contact World Nomads 24/7 Emergency Assistance if you have a medical emergency.
Travel insurance for volunteering
Get cover for your good deeds
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Clean Up Australia Day isn’t the only time us Aussies volunteer.
We have a long and proud history of helping out when we travel abroad, and World Nomads Travel Insurance is a strong supporter of paying it forward and giving back too.
Our travel insurance allows you to participate in a range of volunteer activities and vacations, from summer teaching programs to clean water projects. What better way to strengthen communities, forge meaningful connections and open eyes (and hearts) than by contributing to a worthy purpose?
What’s covered for volunteers?
Want to step out into the world and volunteer your time? If you need volunteer travel insurance because you want to volunteer overseas, or you’re planning a volunteer vacation, World Nomads travel insurance plans may include coverage for:
-
Trip cancellation
-
Trip interruption
-
Medical emergency care
-
Emergency evacuation
-
Baggage delay
-
Theft of baggage and personal belongings
What volunteer activities may I participate in?
While we don’t cover all kinds of volunteering (see the exclusions listed below) the kinds of volunteer work we might cover include:
We cover various kinds of volunteering such as
-
Hospitality including serving the homeless dinner
-
Retail work such as helping out in a co-op shop.
-
General farm work which may include activities such as conservation and environmental work
-
Teaching.
-
Clerical work.
-
Childcare.
If you purchase a higher level of travel insurance cover, you may have travel insurance coverage for volunteer work such as:
-
Manual work or work with power tools or working under 5 metres in height.
-
Volunteer instructor or guide of a covered sport or activity, if you have the appropriate qualification, certification or license to participate in this covered sport, activity or experience and it must not be one of our excluded activities.
Make sure you add the activity when you purchase your travel insurance so it’s included in your policy. If you can’t find the activity in our list, contact us for help.
Which volunteer activities are excluded
Some volunteer activities may not be covered as they’re just too risky for us to cover, for example, volunteer fire-fighting, panther minding or activities in places known to be unsafe or dangerous.
This includes volunteer work that includes:
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Work performed over 5 metres in height.
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Work performed offshore, underground or in caves.
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Operating machinery.
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Working with dangerous animals and / or big game.
What else isn’t covered?
As a global citizen contributing to good causes, we hope you’ll act responsibly and within your limits! But just to be clear, we won’t cover any incidents related to:
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Alcohol or drug abuse
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Reckless behavior
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Criminal or illegal acts
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Changing your mind
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Pre-existing medical conditions unless specified under your policy
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Third party compensation and legal expenses
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Your legal and personal liability following professional advice or other services performed by you as a volunteer.
This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered.
If haven’t yet chosen a volunteer program, you may find inspiration in our article about choosing ethical volunteer programs.
- Buy while traveling
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- Ongoing traveler support
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance
Waiting periods apply
It's not always fun.
Due to mishap, my frenulum on my penis got severely damaged. During intercourse with my girlfriend it nearly ripped and caused me a lot of pain and blood. I went to the doctor and he operated on it. Now everything is okay again.
Danish Resident.
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 deceased?
- Close relative dropped dead?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need drugs?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Luggage lost?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about volunteering and travel insurance cover. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team.
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Will travel insurance cover me for countries other than those listed on my policy?
That depends on your policy and your country of residence. You may have to put in a request with the customer service team for a country to be added to your policy.
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Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed for accidents or unexpected illnesses overseas. They don't stand in place of primary medical insurance or your home health system.
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Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what’s happened. If it’s an emergency situation where medical evacuation is required, World Nomads may cover these costs upfront. You must contact World Nomads 24/7 Emergency Assistance if you have a medical emergency.
