Hiking Travel Insurance Coverage
Trekking & High-Altitude Insurance Coverage for US Residents
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At a glance:
- World Nomads offers plans that cover hiking at high altitudes, including treks 26,247 feet/8,000 meters with the Epic Plan.
- All travel insurance plans have coverage for emergency medical expenses, evacuations, baggage loss, trip cancellations, and 250+ other adventure activities.
- 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 services to get travel medication, like altitude sickness pills or necessary vaccinations, before you go.
For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
- How can I protect my hiking trip with travel insurance coverage?
- Why should you consider travel insurance coverage for your next hiking and trekking adventure?
- Travel insurance benefits for hiking
- What's not covered
- Top tips for your hiking adventure
- Other adventure activities covered
Whether you’re trekking to Everest's Base Camp, Tanzania's Mt. Kilimanjaro or just going for a high-altitude hike in a neighboring state, you may want to protect your adventure with World Nomads Travel Insurance. Our travel protection plans include a range of travel insurance benefits that could help with everything from stolen bags to unexpected medical expenses.
Hiking and trekking travel insurance coverage
As passionate hikers ourselves, we’ve designed our plans to cover many types of hiking, from a lazy weekend stroll to the most intrepid trek. We offer coverage for some of the world’s most famous hikes and 250 other sports, activities and experiences.
We offer four plans – Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual – each with different maximum elevaton coverages for your hike:
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Standard Plan
covers hikes up to
19,685 feet/6,000 meters -
Explorer plan
covers hikes up to
21,325 feet/6,500 meters -
Epic plan
covers hikes up to
26,247 feet/8,000 meters -
Annual plan
covers hikes up to
19,685 feet/6,000 meters
Get a quote and compare the plans to see which level of coverage is right for you.
Why should you consider travel insurance coverage for your next hiking and trekking adventure?
Hiking and trekking can take you off the beaten path—and far from help if things go sideways. From twisted ankles on remote trails to gear stolen from your rental car, unexpected issues can derail even the most carefully planned journey. Travel insurance designed for hikers and trekkers may help you bounce back quickly with support for emergencies, delays, and disruptions. With coverage that is flexible to your route and altitude level, it’s a smart way to explore confidently—whether you're heading to Patagonia or embarking on the Tour du Mont Blanc.
What travel insurance benefits could cover you and your hiking trip?
World Nomads offers coverage (up to the plan maximum benefit amount) for:
- Medical expenses: if you get hurt while hiking on your trip 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 hiking 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.
- 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.
All plans also include several additional non-insurance services that may support you both before and during your hike. These include pre-trip medical consultations and storing your medical records digitally.
What may not be covered?
- Being under the influence of narcotics
- Unattended baggage, sporting equipment or personal items.
- Travel within 100 miles of your home.
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 quote
Top tips for your hiking adventure
To make the most of your time on the trail, keep the following tips in mind:
- Be prepared: we recommend that you check the weather, check your equipment, and if you’re going guided, confirm that you’re using an accredited tour operator.
- 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 pre-departure telehealth service to obtain prescription medications for the most common travel needs, like altitude sickness pills, delivered to your door before you leave on your trip.
- 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 hiking. 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 is the difference between hiking, trekking and mountaineering for travel insurance purposes?
The terms ‘hiking’ and ‘trekking’ are usually interchangeable when it comes to travel insurance benefits for covered activities. Mountaineering, on the other hand, often includes technical climbing or high-altitude ascents that may require ropes or specialized gear. Each activity carries different risks, so travel protection plans like those from World Nomads offer varying levels of coverage depending on the elevation, difficulty, and whether technical skills or equipment are involved. Check out our (lengthy) list of covered adventure activities to help you determine the plan right for you.
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Why should I consider travel insurance coverage for hiking and trekking?
Hiking and trekking adventures vary in intensity—and elevation. That’s why World Nomads offers three single-trip travel protection plans (Standard, Explorer, and Epic), plus an Annual Plan, each with different elevation coverage to match your goals. With elevation-based options, you can choose a plan that fits your route, your style, and your ambition.
- Elevation coverage by plan:
- Standard Plan – up to 19,685 feet / 6,000 meters
- Annual Plan – up to 19,685 feet / 6,000 meters
- Explorer Plan – up to 21,325 feet / 6,500 meters
- Epic Plan – up to 26,247 feet / 8,000 meters
- Elevation coverage by plan:
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When should I purchase travel insurance if I’m planning an adventure?
Many travelers choose to buy travel insurance soon after booking to access pre-trip benefits like Trip Cancellation coverage, which may reimburse non-refundable costs if you cancel for a covered reason (like sickness or injury). If you’re considering purchasing the Explorer or Epic plans with optional Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage, it must be purchased within seven days of your first trip deposit (such as booking a flight or putting money down on a hotel). Purchasing early also gives you access to our non-insurance pre-trip telehealth service, which can help you get essential medications—like altitude sickness pills or antibiotics just in case last night’s campfire chili doesn’t agree with you. Planning ahead means more flexibility and fewer surprises on the trail.
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Would hiking gear and equipment be covered?
Yes, hiking 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. Maximum benefit amounts and conditions vary by plan, so be sure to review your chosen plan documents —especially if you're 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.
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Does my plan include emergency evacuation coverage?
Yes, our travel insurance coverage includes emergency evacuation if you’re seriously injured or become unexpectedly ill while hiking or trekking. 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 plan’s elevation limits and covered activities to make sure you're protected for your specific adventure.
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Is there a maximum altitude limit for insurance coverage with World Nomads?
Yes, each plan has a different altitude maximum.
- Elevation coverage maximum by plan:
- Standard Plan – up to 19,685 feet / 6,000 meters
- Annual Plan – up to 19,685 feet / 6,000 meters
- Explorer Plan – up to 21,325 feet / 6,500 meters
- Epic Plan – up to 26,247 feet / 8,000 meters
- Elevation coverage maximum by plan:
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Do I need insurance coverage for multi-day hiking trips?
Yes, multi-day hiking and trekking adventures may require more robust travel insurance coverage due to the added risks of being in remote areas for extended periods. World Nomads offers a range of plans that may cover emergency medical care, evacuation, trip cancellation, gear protection, and more. Our plans also include different elevation limits, so whether you're doing a relaxed overnight hike or a challenging high-altitude trek, you can choose a plan that fits the level of adventure you're planning.
- Elevation coverage maximum by plan:
- Standard Plan – up to 19,685 feet / 6,000 meters
- Annual Plan – up to 19,685 feet / 6,000 meters
- Explorer Plan – up to 21,325 feet / 6,500 meters
- Epic Plan – up to 26,247 feet / 8,000 meters
- Elevation coverage maximum by plan:
Need destination inspiration?
Not sure where your next hiking adventure should take you? Check out some of our favorite trails around the world and get destination-specific travel insurance tips to help you plan with confidence.
This is not a full list of what is and isn’t covered, so please check your plan document for a full list of terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply to your 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.
20250224-4259830Travel 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 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
- GoPro 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)
We cover 250+ activities you love
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 Death Overseas
Learn how travel insurance could help your family if you die overseas.
- As featured in:
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You may not worry about what happens to you after you die, but your family will, particularly if it happens oversesas - so it’s important you get yourself covered just in case. Unexpected accidents or serious illnesses can be fatal, and our teams are here to help your family and friends if you die overseas.
The priority of your loved ones will be to bring you home; we’ll be there to help take away the added stress of navigating overseas laws, different languages and formalities.
What’s covered by travel insurance if you die overseas?
If you die overseas as the result of an accident or a sudden and unexpected illness, you can be covered for:
- Return of your remains to your home country
- Local cremation or burial overseas
- Reasonable additional expenses if someone needs to travel to identify your body
In addition, we also have emergency assistance teams who can assist your family – keeping them informed, putting them in contact with consular officials, and helping them with the often difficult administration that surrounds overseas death.
What's not covered by travel insurance?
Unfortunately, travel insurance is not designed to cover everyting, including:
- Suicide
- Deaths as a result of drugs or alcohol
- If a pre-existing condition causes your death (unless otherwise stated in the policy)
- Any costs within your home country once your remains are returned to your next of kin
This is not a full list of what's covered and not covered. It is important that you read and understand your policy before you travel as your coverage may be subject to certain limitations or exclusions. This policy provides complete descriptions of the benefits, terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of your insurance coverage.
How your family or friend can get assistance if you die overseas.
It’s essential that your family or travel buddy get in contact with our Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible, so that our team can support them from the time you die until your remains have returned home.
To help our Emergency Assistance team assist them quickly, they'll need the following:
- Your policy number
- Your location
- As many details as possible about the circumstances surrounding your death
So, leave a copy of your policy with your family or friend, just in case they need to use it.
How we help.
Overseas deaths are the most heartbreaking cases to help with. No one is ready to deal with the sudden death of a close relative overseas, let alone having to deal with the complex organisation and unexpected high costs. The World Nomads Emergency Assistance team can coordinate a local burial or bringing home loved ones with trusted partners on the ground, and ensure that families and friends are supported throughout such a difficult time.
Operations Manager.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Strike at your departure or arrival point?
- Official travel advisory warning not to travel?
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 prescription meds?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- You or a family member deceased?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or gear stolen?
- Tech trashed?
- 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 teamDoes Travel Insurance Cover Terrorism?
Find out how we could help if you're caught up in a terror attack.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
While your chances of being on the receiving end of a terrorist attack are slim, we know it’s a concern for many travellers. Make sure you know what our policies cover, so when you buy one, you're prepared if you're unlucky enough to be caught up in an attack.
What can travel insurance for Canadian residents cover if there's a terror attack?
If the event is unforeseen – which by their very nature terrorist attacks almost all are, you could be covered for:
- Hospitalization
- Emergency out-patient treatment
- Medical transportation to bring you home
In addition, we also have emergency assistance teams who can assist you – keeping you informed, putting you in contact with consular officials, arranging medical care, and getting in touch with your family for you.
What’s not covered by travel insurance if there's a terror attack?
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything. Our Emergency Assistance team often sees claims for terrorism that have to be declined because our plan excludes them. They include:
- Cancellation or trip interruption expenses
- Changing your mind about traveling
- Buying a policy AFTER the event happens
- Traveling to a country that the Canadian government has advised travelers not to visit (if the warning is issued before you begin your trip or buy your policy)
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. It is important you read and understand your policy as it contains benefits, conditions, exclusions and pre-existing condition exclusions. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions about your coverage, just ask us.
How to get help if you're hurt in a terror attack
It’s essential that you get in contact with our Emergency Assistance Team as soon as possible so that our team can support you from the time you fall sick or get injured until the time you get home.
So that our Emergency Assistance team 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
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.
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.
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Am I covered if I need to cancel my plans as a result of terrorism?
No, unfortunately there's no cover for this in our Canadian policies.
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Can you refund the rest of my policy because I’ve returned home early?
No. If you’ve travelled on your policy, there are no partial refunds.
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What if I have to leave my baggage behind?
Unfortunately there’s no cover if you leave your baggage behind.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Strike at your departure or arrival point?
- Official travel advisory warning not to travel?
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 prescription meds?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- You or a family member deceased?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or gear stolen?
- Tech trashed?
- 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 Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation
When home is the best place for healthcare and healing.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
- What are the benefits of emergency evacuation and repatriation insurance?
- What is the difference between emergency evacuation and repatriation
- What does World Nomads insurance cover for emergency evacuation and repatriation?
- What's not covered by emergency evacuation insurance?
Whether you’re trekking to see Machu Picchu, surfing in Maui, scuba diving off the coast of Thailand, or skiing in Europe, accidents or sickness can happen at any time during your trip. If you’re far from appropriate medical facilities, emergency evacuation and repatriation insurance can help get you the care you need.
What are the benefits of emergency evacuation and repatriation insurance?
Unexpected medical emergencies can happen at any time, whether you’re near or far from home. Appendicitis, a broken leg, animal bites and even a bout of severe food poisoning have all sent travellers to the hospital. But what happens if the nearest hospital or appropriate medical facility is dozens or even hundreds of kilometres away?
Medical transport – particularly Medivac flights – can cost tens of thousands of dollars. What could be a lifesaver could also deplete your savings. Emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage 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.
What is the difference between emergency evacuation and repatriation?
An emergency evacuation involves transporting patients to a hospital or other medical facility in order to be treated.
Repatriation is a type of evacuation that returns travellers back home, typically after their condition has stabilized and when your treating physician recommends you return to your home province because of your medical condition.
And in a worst-case scenario, if a traveller dies on vacation, World Nomads travel insurance also covers repatriation of remains. It’s not an easy thing to think about, but it does happen from time to time.
What does World Nomads insurance cover for emergency evacuation and repatriation?
Under your World Nomads plan, emergency evacuation is 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 going to be at the 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.
Emergency evacuation and repatriation typically takes place through a commercial flight. We may cover:
- One-way economy airfare to return you to your home province in Canada.
- Fares for additional seats should you need to accommodate a stretcher.
- Flight upgrade to business class when a stretcher isn’t necessary.
- Where medically necessary, medical air evacuation to a hospital in your home province.
- Round-trip airfare for a medical escort when a requirement by the airline or when medically necessary.
The key thing to remember is that you must contact us before seeking emergency medical treatment, emergency evacuation or repatriation.
Medical repatriation travel insurance is available for international travel or domestic trips outside your home province. You must be covered under your Government Health Insurance Plan (GHIP) for the full duration of your policy to be eligible for maximum emergency medical benefits. If you do not have GHIP coverage while on your trip, emergency medical benefits will be limited to $40,000 CAD for the duration of your trip.
What's not covered by emergency evacuation insurance?
Our travel insurance plans do not cover everything. For example, our plans do not provide coverage for any of the following:
- Any incidents related to drug and alcohol abuse.
- Unnecessary upgrades or other non-cost-effective options.
- Participation as an athlete in professional sports or participating in activities you have not listed when you purchased your plan.
- Travelling for the purpose of securing medical treatment.
- Pre-existing medical conditions, as outlined in your policy wording.
- Continuing medical care back in Canada.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. It is important you read and understand your policy as it contains benefits, conditions, exclusions and pre-existing condition exclusions. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions, just ask us.
How to get medical assistance.
It’s essential that you get in contact with our 24/7 Emergency 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.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Strike at your departure or arrival point?
- Official travel advisory warning not to travel?
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 prescription meds?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- You or a family member deceased?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or gear stolen?
- Tech trashed?
- 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 around medical repatriation. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Centre or you can ask the customer service team.
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Can my mother come and get me?
In some situations, yes. If you are travelling alone and are admitted to the hospital for three days or more, we cover the cost for economy class airfare and subsistence allowance for someone to be with you.
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Can I choose the gender of my nurse or doctor?
In an emergency medical situation, the medical provider will determine who will provide your treatment. If you have a particular request or concern, speak to the medical team; they may be able to address your issue.
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What if I’m heavily medicated due to my emergency medical condition? Will I be allowed to trans-it in all countries to get home?
Our medical department and assistance teams can assist in coordinating your transportation home if your treating physician recommends that you return home after your emergency medical treatment.
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What happens I’m on life support?
Our plans offer coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation coverage as well as coverage for a bedside companion. In consultation with your treating physician, our medical department and assistance teams will look at the best possible solution based on your emergency medical condition to either return you home or get your family to you.
Travel Insurance for Delayed Baggage
Learn how travel insurance could help if your luggage misses your flight.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
If you’ve ever been the last one standing at the baggage carousel at an airport, waiting in vain as the empty belt went round and round, you know the sinking feeling that comes with losing your luggage.
While this is one of the most common ways your baggage can become a dearly departed companion, other issues with your baggage can arise too, like baggage delay, damage, and theft.
Our travel insurance may help you when your plans for your bag go awry.
- Why travel insurance is your best bet when your bags go AWOL
- What is not covered?
- What to do if your bag gets lost or stolen while you’re overseas
- Keep your luggage safe
- FAQs
Why travel insurance is your best bet when your bags go AWOL
We know how much your bag means to you while you’re overseas. They often hold all your most precious items, like your journal, your favorite hiking boots and that new something you bought just for this trip. Sometimes all your worldly processions are in those bags! That’s why baggage coverage is your best bet in case your bags go AWOL.
Whether you choose our Standard or Explorer plan, here’s how World Nomads travel insurance may be able to help if your bags go missing or are delayed, lost, or stolen. We offer coverage in case of:
- Baggage delays by the common carrier
- Stolen baggage or items (including tech items like computers and camera)
- Bags that have been lost in transit by the common carrier
- Stolen passports
- Damage caused by a carrier
It’s important to read over your policy wording to become familiar with what is and isn’t covered, so there are no surprises should you need to make a claim.
What is not covered?
While World Nomads travel insurance is designed to cover your baggage and personal effects that you take on your trip, the baggage, personal effects and sporting equipment coverage of your travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything. Travel insurance doesn’t cover certain situations and circumstances, including but not limited to:
- Accidentally leaving your baggage or personal belongings behind.
- Stolen bags that were left unattended or unwatched.
- Electronics that were kept in checked-in baggage.
- Bicycles and some sporting equipment, particularly while in use.
- Baggage that has been left in an unlocked vehicle (or left overnight, even when the car is locked).
- Business equipment.
- Items that have not been reported to a local authority (police, airline, etc.).
What to do if your bag gets lost or stolen while you’re overseas
Had your bag stolen while on the overnight train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai? Or perhaps it got lost in transit en route to Peru? Bags can lose their way for a variety of reasons. It helps to know how to pick yourself back up again if you find yourself without your stuff while on the road.
If your luggage has been stolen or is lost by your common carrier along the way, there are a few things you need to do to increase the likelihood of your travel insurance covering you. Take a look at this easy-to-follow guide for what to do if your luggage is stolen while travelling. And remember, the first rule of thumb is always to report it.
In addition, if your luggage is delayed more than 12 hours, you may be entitled to reimbursement of the costs for essential clothing and toiletries. Check your policy wording carefully as terms and conditions apply.
Keep your luggage safe
While stealthy snatches and misadventuring bags can happen, there are a few simple tips and tricks you can keep in mind while travelling (and even before you go) to help reduce the risk of losing your most valued processions.
From always packing and carrying your own bags and wearing the right gear, to safeguarding your bags with zip ties, follow these essential tips from travellers on how to keep your belongings safe while you travel.
Get a quote
Ready to pack your bags? When you get a quote you can compare our Standard and Explorer plans and decide which one might best suit your needs.
Still not sure? Get in touch and we can help you decide which travel insurance is best for your next snow adventure.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. It is important you read and understand your policy as it contains benefits, conditions, exclusions and pre-existing condition exclusions. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions, just ask us.
Travel Insurance Baggage Tips:
- Find and scan your receipts before your leave.
- If an airline loses your gear, tell them straight away and get it in writing.
- Theft? Report it to the police immediately, or as soon as reasonably possible.
- If you’ve got a handset or tablet that can be blocked, block it.
- You can claim at home or on the road.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for baggage. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
-
What if I don’t have receipts for my baggage and personal effects?
You can still file a claim. However, the claims team might depreciate your items or be unable to process your claim.
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If the airline loses my baggage, what do I need?
You’ll need documentation from the carrier confirming the loss and any compensation they provided to you, or offered to you, your original receipts, and a copy of your itinerary.
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Do my baggage and personal affects get depreciated?
Yes, they do. We cover the depreciated value of the item up to the limit shown in the policy.
-
I'm on a gap year. Can I claim for my baggage while I'm away?
You can claim whenever you like, while travelling or when you return home.
-
Am I covered if I lose my passport?
Our travel insurance policies may reimburse the costs associated with getting a replacement passport if yours has been stolen. Check out our article on stolen passports for more information.
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I have a high-value camera. Does your travel insurance cover it?
Always make sure you get the right level of coverage for your needs. Our policies have per-item and overall coverage limits. When you get a quote, you can compare coverage offered by our Standard and Explorer plans side by side, and as always, reach out if you have any questions.
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.
S.Netanel. 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
- Are you, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Strike at your departure or arrival point?
- Official travel advisory warning not to travel?
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 prescription meds?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- You or a family member deceased?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or gear stolen?
- Tech trashed?
- 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 Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation
Travel insurance can cover repatriation if you encounter a medical emergency abroad and need to be evacuated.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
- What are the benefits of emergency evacuation insurance?
- What is the difference between emergency evacuation and repatriation?
- What does World Nomads insurance cover?
- What's not covered by emergency evacuation insurance?
Whether you’re trekking to see Machu Picchu, surfing in Maui, scuba diving off the coast of Thailand, or skiing in Canada, accidents or sickness can happen at any time during your trip. If you’re far from appropriate medical facilities, emergency evacuation insurance can help get you the care you need.
What are the benefits of emergency evacuation insurance?
Unexpected medical emergencies can happen at any time, whether you’re near or far from home. Appendicitis, a broken leg, animal bites and even a bout of severe food poisoning have all sent travelers to the hospital. But what happens if the nearest hospital or appropriate medical facility is dozens or even hundreds of miles away?
Medical transport – particularly Medevac flights – can cost tens of thousands of dollars. What could be a lifesaver could deplete your savings. Emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage may cover, up to the policy limits, the cost to get you to the closest appropriate medical facility or home for further treatment.
What is the difference between emergency evacuation and repatriation?
An emergency evacuation involves transporting patients to a hospital or other medical facility in order to be treated.
Repatriation is a type of evacuation that returns travelers back home, typically after their condition has stabilized and when a doctor advises that they should no longer travel.
And in a worst-case scenario, if a traveler dies on vacation, World Nomads travel insurance also covers repatriation of remains. It’s not an easy thing to think about, but it does happen from time to time.
What does World Nomads insurance cover?
Under your World Nomads plan, emergency medical evacuation is 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 going to be at the hospital for a prolonged period of time, 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.
Emergency evacuation and repatriation typically takes place through a commercial flight, though other modes of transportation could include:
- Air ambulance or Medevac flights
- Sea level aircraft
- Helicopter
- Ground ambulance
The key thing to remember is that you need to get pre-authorization for a medical evacuation.
What's not covered by emergency evacuation insurance?
Our travel insurance plans exclude coverage for any of the following:
- Any incidents related to drug and alcohol abuse.
- Participation as an athlete in professional sports or participating in extreme sports.
- Participation in any military maneuver or training exercise.
- Traveling for the purpose of securing medical treatment.
- Continuing medical care at home.
- Losses related to illegal behavior.
This is not a full list of what's covered and what's not covered. Other limits and conditions may apply. Any example scenarios provided above are not a guarantee of coverage. All claims are subject to review, require documentation and are considered individually Please read your policy wording in full and contact us if you have any questions, we’re happy to help.
How to get medical assistance
In the event of a life-threatening emergency, call the local emergency authorities first to receive immediate assistance, and then contact our 27/7 Emergency Assistance Team, who can support you every step of the way.
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.
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?
- Need a hospital?
- 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
- 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 teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions around medical repatriation and travel insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
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Does travel insurance cover medical costs upfront?
When it comes to medical evacuation, travel insurance pays the provider directly. For other types of medical costs, however, you may have to pay upfront and make a claim for reimbursement later.
-
Can I choose my own medical evacuation provider?
You can, but World Nomads negotiates rates with preferred providers and will only pay up to that negotiated rate, even if you use an out-of-network provider. It’s easier if you contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. Our staff can arrange the evacuation service for you.
-
Can a family member join me at the hospital?
If you’re alone at the hospital for at least seven days and aren’t planning a return anytime soon, it’s possible that a family member or another person you choose, be sent to your bedside to accompany you.
Travel Insurance for Delayed Baggage
Learn how travel insurance could help if your luggage misses your flight.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
- What's covered if my bags are delayed?
- Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery Service
- Items that aren't covered under baggage delay insurance
- If you need to make a claim for baggage delay
- Things you should know (and other tips for surviving delayed baggage)
We’ve been stuck in some remote locations with only the clothes on our back, so we understand the need to freshen up when your bags don't arrive. If you’ve arrived at the snow without warm clothes, or the tropics without a fresh pair of underwear, we can help you navigate a common traveler gripe – delayed baggage.
What’s covered if my bags are delayed?
When you arrive at your destination, but your bags don’t, and it’s looking like it will take some time for them to find their way back to you, World Nomads travel insurance* may help ease the blow.
If your checked-in bags are delayed by more than 12 hours en route to your destination, your plan can reimburse you for the essential items so you're not left wearing the same thing until your bags are found and returned.
Items you can claim reimbursement for if your bags are delayed include things like:
- Underwear
- Socks
- A change of clothes
- Toiletries
- Pajamas
You may also be covered for other reasonable and (deemed) necessary essential items. For example, if you’ve arrived at the ski slopes in Europe without a warm jacket (and other clothing to suit the weather of your destination), or you’ve traveled for a big event like a wedding and your dress or tux was in your checked bag.
Get in touch if you’re unsure what you can claim and be sure to look at your plan wording, including per-day and maximum limits, before making any purchase to replace your delayed items. When you get a quote, you can compare the coverage and limits in our plans side-by-side.
Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery Service (Non-Insurance)
If your checked baggage is lost or delayed by an airline, you should first talk with the airline and try to get it sorted out with them. If the bag is still lost, your next message should be to our non-insurance Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery service partner. They will get on the case and get your bag headed in the right direction, quickly. Included in all plans, this service covers every flight on any airline worldwide. You'll receive updates at every step. Just report your lost bags to the airline, then provide the file reference, record locator number, and Property Irregularity Report on the requested form.
Items that aren’t covered under baggage delay insurance
While things like a change of clothes and toiletries fall under the ‘items you can claim if your bags are delayed’ umbrella, not everything is reimbursable. The following items are excluded:
- Eyeglasses, sunglasses or contact lenses;
- Credit cards, tickets, cash and documents;
- Professional or occupational equipment or property including electronic business equipment;
- Hearing aids, orthodontic devices and prescription medications.
This is not a full list of exclusions. Please read your plan wording for full details including per-day and maximum limits.
If you need to make a claim for baggage delay
If your bags are missing for an extended time, you’re probably going to need to make a claim. Travel insurance is secondary to other coverage you may have, so you will need to claim reimbursement with your common carrier first, then with us for the remaining amount your airline won’t cover.
If you need to make a claim for delayed baggage there are a few steps you need to follow:
- Report it to your airline or other common carrier.
- Complete all documentation required by the carrier.
- Contact the Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery service partner.
- We suggest reviewing your plan documents to see what your per-item and maximum limits are.
- Consider what can actually be considered ‘essential’ items versus ‘wants’. Call the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team if you want to be sure (we highly suggest you do this so there won’t be surprises).
- Submit relevant receipts for the items you buy as part of the claim process.
Things you should know (and other tips for surviving delayed baggage)
There are limits on the amount you can spend, and if your bags are returned within the 12-hour waiting period, then coverage will not apply. So, before you go shopping for a new wardrobe, check your plan carefully on the limits, conditions and exclusions that may apply before you buy.
Sometimes it pays to squeeze everything into your carry-on luggage. Check out our handy tips for traveling with carry-on only and take care you don’t exceed luggage weight limits.
One of the best ways to keep your luggage safe is to keep your valuables with you. When in transit, take your most precious items out of your checked-in luggage and carry them with you in your carry-on luggage or daypack.
Finally, read our article on baggage and gear to learn about coverage for lost, stolen and damaged baggage.
*All information we provided here is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the plans described. Please carefully read your state specific plan documents for a full description of coverage. Travel insurance is included as part of your travel protection plan which contains both insurance benefits and non-insurance assistance services. Material included on this page does not represent, nor is it specific to, United States Fire Insurance Company or travel insurance benefits provided on United States Fire Insurance Company’s travel protection plans.
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.
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 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)
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 teamBaggage Travel Insurance Benefits
Learn how travel insurance benefits for baggage may help protect US Residents if bags are lost, delayed, or stolen
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At a glance
- Travel insurance benefits for lost, damaged, destroyed, stolen, or delayed bags are included in all World Nomads Travel Insurance protection plans
- If your bags are delayed by at least 12 consecutive hours or more on the way to your destination, you may be reimbursed for necessary personal items until you are reunited with your belongings
- Our non-insurance service included in every plan tracks and delivers missing checked bags
- Stolen baggage, passports, or personal items such as cameras and computers may be covered (Up to per item and maximum benefit amount) Terms and conditions apply.
- Why consider travel insurance and non-insurance assistance services for lost or delayed bags?
- What May Be Covered in your plan
- Important to Know in the Event of a Claim
- Baggage and Personal Effects Maximum Amounts
- Baggage Delay Maximum Amounts
- What to do if your bags or belongings are lost, stolen, or delayed
- Recommended Travel and Packing Tips
- FAQs
Why consider travel insurance and non-insurance assistance services for lost or delayed bags?
If you’ve ever been the last one standing at the baggage carousel at an airport, waiting in vain for your belongings to appear, you know the sinking feeling that comes with losing your luggage. According to a 2024 air transportation study*, major airlines mishandle roughly 6 bags per 1,000 passengers — which equal over 33 million mishandled bags globally. Sometimes they just took a detour and ended up elsewhere temporarily, but occasionally they’re gone forever. Neither scenario is any fun, but a single-trip or annual travel protection plan that includes travel insurance benefits for lost or delayed bags may be able to help when your bag ends up somewhere other than where it’s supposed to be.
What May Be Covered in your plan
- Reimbursement for the purchase of necessary personal Items (like toiletries or a change of clothes) if your baggage is delayed by a common carrier for at least 12 consecutive hours on the way to your destination
- Delayed or lost baggage tracking and delivery service
- Stolen bags or personal items (may include your phone or camera.) Terms and conditions apply.
- Non-insurance assistance services to help with stolen passports, visas, or other travel documents
Important to Know in the Event of a Claim
- Coverage is secondary to any reimbursement you receive from your common carrier
- Subject to per-item and total maximum benefit amounts with the baggage and personal effects benefit
- If you leave your bags unattended and they get stolen, you may not be covered
- If your bag is lost or stolen, you must report it to the local authorities (airline, police, etc.) and get documentation of it
Baggage and Personal Effects Maximum Amounts
|
Standard Plan |
Explorer Plan |
Epic Plan |
Annual Plan |
| $500 maximum benefit payable per article, up to $1,000 total Get a quote |
$1,000 maximum benefit payable per article, up to $2,000 total Get a quote |
$1,000 maximum benefit payable per article, up to $3,000 total Get a quote |
$500 maximum benefit payable per article, up to $2,000 per trip Get a quote |
Baggage Delay Maximum Amounts
|
Standard Plan |
Explorer Plan |
Epic Plan |
Annual Plan |
| Up to $150 per day, up to a maximum of $750 Get a quote |
Up to $200 per day, up to a maximum of $1,000 Get a quote |
Up to $250 per day, up to a maximum of $1,250 Get a quote |
Up to $200 per day, up to a maximum of $1,000 Get a quote |
What to do if your bags or belongings are lost, stolen, or delayed
- If your bags are delayed, lost, or stolen, report it to your common carrier (airline, train, etc) or local authorities. Save proof of the report, documentation confirming delivery as well as reimbursement and receipts for essential items.
- Complete all documentation required by the carrier.
- If your bags are lost by an airline, contact our Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery service partner.
- Review your plan documents to see what your per-item and maximum benefit amounts are.
- If you need to purchase replacement items for a baggage delay, consider what can actually be considered ‘essential’ items versus ‘wants’ and save all receipts. You can file a claim online, but make sure you do it within 20 days after a loss occurs or as soon as is reasonably possible. In order to claim your travel insurance benefits for lost or delayed bags, you’ll need to provide required documents within 90 days of the loss.
Recommended Travel and Packing Tips
Nobody wants to deal with things like stolen iPhones or lost luggage, but unexpected things can happen when traveling. These are challenging circumstances, but there are a few essential traveler tips that can help you be proactive to try to avoid these situations.
- Consider traveling with a carry-on only. This can be the best way for you to avoid bags getting lost or delayed by your airline. If you must check a bag, put a tracking device in it so you can check in on its whereabouts.
- If you must check a bag, make sure your medications, glasses, contact lenses, hearing aids, and orthodontic devices are in your carry-on. You won’t want to be without those things and these items may be excluded from your baggage and personal effects travel insurance benefit.
- In the event of a claim, receipts may be needed. Original receipts (if available) and a complete list of stolen, damaged or lost item(s) must be provided along with proof of loss providing amount of loss, date, time and cause of loss, and a repair estimate, if the item(s) is damaged; The easiest way to do this is to save receipts and take photos of what you are packing, prior to leaving on the trip.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for baggage travel insurance benefits. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
-
Do all World Nomads plans include travel insurance benefits for lost or delayed bags?
Yes, all of the travel protection plans offered by World Nomads Travel Insurance include travel insurance benefits for lost or delayed bags. When you get a quote, you can compare the coverage and limits in our plans side-by-side to see per item and maximum benefit amounts.
-
If my bags are delayed, what necessary personal items could I be reimbursed for?
If your bags are delayed by at least 12 consecutive hours or more en route to your destination, your plan may reimburse you for the necessary personal items like:
- Socks
- Underwear
- A change of clothes
- Toiletries
- Pajamas
Be sure to look at your plan wording, including per-day and maximum benefit amounts, before making any purchase to replace your delayed items. If you’re not sure what you can claim, contact our team.
-
What is the non-insurance delayed and lost baggage tracking and delivery service?
If your baggage is lost or delayed by an airline, our partnership with a Delayed or Lost Baggage Tracking and Delivery Service may come to your rescue. This non-insurance service tracks and expedites your lost luggage, allowing you to continue your travels smoothly. Included in all plans, this service covers every flight on any airline worldwide. You'll receive updates at every step. Just report your lost bags to the airline, then fill out the form. You’ll need the file reference, record locator number, and Property Irregularity Report.
-
Could high value items be covered by the Baggage and Personal Effects travel insurance benefit?
Higher valued items like jewelry, watches, silver, gold or platinum items, furs and articles trimmed with fur, cameras, and camera equipment may be covered but are subject to special limits. Terms and conditions apply. Always read your plan wording carefully to ensure you have adequate coverage for your needs. If you still have questions, contact our team and we can help you figure out what’s best for your circumstance.
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)
Emergency Medical Expense Coverage for Accidents and Sicknesses
Accidents happen. Learn how US residents can protect their trip with emergency medical expense coverage
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At a glance
- Emergency medical help abroad: Accident & Sickness Medical Expense coverage for hospital stays, ambulance transport, prescriptions, and emergency dental treatment when you’re injured or sick overseas.
- Medical evacuation and repatriation benefit: World Nomads Travel Insurance may help cover the cost of Emergency Medical Evacuation if needed. (Subject to Approval)
- 24/7 global assistance: Our non-insurance Emergency Assistance team is on call 24/7 to help you find suitable care, communicate with doctors, and coordinate logistics in any language and in any time zone.
- Stay healthy on the road: Get pre-trip telehealth advice, upload portable medical records, and follow simple steps to prevent foodborne illness and altitude sickness while traveling.
- Why consider travel protection for medical emergencies abroad?
- Accident and Sickness Medical Expenses that may be covered
- What May Not Be Covered
- Accident and Sickness Medical Expense Coverage Maximums
- Our recommendations in the event of an unexpected medical emergency on your trip
- What you’ll need to file a claim
- Traveler Tips
- FAQs
We’ve seen just about everything on the road—from motorbike spills and sudden illnesses to allergy attacks and even a shark bite. When the unexpected happens, knowing who to call and how to get help overseas can make all the difference. With a plan from World Nomads Travel Insurance, you can explore with confidence knowing you’re prepared for those “just in case” moments.
Why consider travel protection for medical emergencies abroad?
One of the top reasons our nomads buy travel protection plans that include the medical expense insurance benefit is to protect themselves if they get sick or injured while abroad. Food poisoning, car accidents, or sudden illness can strike when you least expect it. In fact, 27% of claims across all US travel insurance companies in 2024 were for situations like this. Sometimes you just need a doctor to prescribe medicine, but serious cases may require hospitalization, surgery, or emergency evacuation.
Your regular health insurance back home may not cover you once you leave the country. With travel insurance that includes the medical expense coverage, you can get help arranging treatment and avoid paying high out-of-pocket costs if you end up in a hospital or need emergency care while traveling.
The non-insurance Emergency Assistance Team is available 24/7, 365 days a year. They should be your first call in any emergency, if the situation allows it. They’ll ask you:
- Your plan number (if you have it on you)
- A contact number to reach you
- The nature of your emergency
- Your location
- Any prescribed medication
- Call them at: 1-877-289-0968 within the United States and 1-954-334-8143 from anywhere in the world.
Accident and Sickness Medical Expenses that may be covered:
- Hospitalization
- X-Rays and Lab Tests
- Prescribed Medicines
- Ambulance Transportation
- Transportation to Your Primary Residence (Repatriation), if deemed medically necessary
- Emergency Dental Treatment
What May Not Be Covered:
- Non-emergency treatment that can wait until you return home
- Care or treatment that is payable under any other insurance plan
- Ongoing treatment at home
- Any reckless or illegal behavior, including being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Accident and Sickness Medical Expense Coverage Maximums
|
Standard Plan |
Explorer Plan |
Epic Plan |
Annual Plan |
| $125,000 per person Get a quote |
$150,000 per person Get a quote |
$250,000 per person Get a quote |
Up to $100,000 per person Get a quote |
Please note - plan benefits and provisions may vary by state jurisdiction.
Our recommendations in the event of an unexpected medical emergency on your trip
- Get to safety. In a serious emergency, go to the nearest hospital or safe location immediately.
- Call our non-insurance 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. They can recommend trusted doctors or clinics nearby.
- Stay in touch during treatment. As the unexpected situation develops, keep our team informed so they can continue to assist you.
- Need to be moved? If medically necessary, the non-insurance Emergency Assistance team can help arrange medical evacuation or repatriation— contact our team first before organizing transport yourself.
- Keep your paperwork. Save all medical reports and receipts, then file a claim within 20 days after a loss occurs or as soon as is reasonably possible.
What you’ll need to file a claim
The exact documentation will vary, depending on the care you received and the out of pocket expenses you paid. Some examples of required documents could include:
- Discharge records of injury or illness and reports for medical and/or dental expenses claimed
- Copies of all bills, receipts, invoices from the provider of services
- An incident report from the local authorities
- An explanation of benefits from any other applicable insurance
Our Recommended Traveler Tips
- Make use of our non-insurance service perks included in all plans.
- Pre-Departure Telehealth Service – chat virtually with a medical professional who can prescribe you travel medications, like for altitude sickness or traveler’s diarrhea. They can even prescribe you necessary vaccines.
- Portable Health Records – upload your medical records online so your necessary information travels with you.
- Be aware about food and water. To avoid foodborne illness while traveling, follow the rule: boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it. Don’t forget about safe water for brushing your teeth too.
- Prepare a basic travel health kit. Pack essentials like pain relievers, bandages, electrolyte packets, and prescription meds. Include copies of your health insurance card and emergency contact numbers.
- Stay aware of altitude and climate risks. If you’re traveling to high elevations or hot, humid regions, learn the symptoms of altitude sickness or heat exhaustion and pace yourself.
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FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for overseas medical insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
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Why should I purchase a travel protection plan?
Many U.S. health insurance plans may not cover you outside the country, which can make medical care abroad expensive. World Nomads Travel Insurance offers plans that may help reimburse costs for hospitalization, prescriptions, and emergency evacuation — plus offer support if your trip is interrupted or your belongings are lost.
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What should I do in the event of a medical emergency while traveling abroad?
If you get hurt or sick while on vacation, contact local authorities as soon as you’re able to do so for immediate attention. If you are experiencing a medical emergency while on your trip, contact our 24/7 non-insurance Emergency Assistance Team at your earliest opportunity. They can direct you to an appropriate medical facility if you are sick or injured, plus much more! Be sure to have your plan number handy so they can find your information easily.
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Why should you consider emergency medical evacuation coverage?
If you’re traveling to a remote area or a destination with limited medical facilities, including cruise ships, medical evacuation coverage might be necessary . It could cover the cost of transport to the nearest suitable hospital or even back to your primary residence if medically necessary. Terms and conditions apply.
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What activities are covered by World Nomads Travel Insurance?
World Nomads is known for covering more than 250 adventure activities — from hiking, motorbiking, and adventure sports. Check your plan details to confirm which activities may be covered before you go.
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Are pre-existing medical conditions covered?
Pre-existing conditions are excluded from our plans. However, you could be eligible for the Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver if you purchased the Epic or Explorer plan during the time-sensitive period. Additional terms apply.
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How do I file a travel medical expense claim after my trip?
Save all documentation — medical reports, receipts, and discharge papers. You can file your claim online within 20 days after a loss occurs or as soon is reasonably possible.
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 While Already Traveling
With World Nomads, you can easily get travel insurance while already travelling.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
- Do I need travel insurance?
- How do I get travel insurance while overseas?
- If I buy travel insurance while already abroad, what’s covered?
- What isn’t covered by travel insurance while overseas?
- Frequently asked questions
You’ve waited for this special getaway for so long. Maybe you’re heading out on a safari in Africa, backpacking through Europe, or learning to make pasta in Italy. With all the excitement of packing your bags, jumping on a plane, and jetting off to a faraway destination, travel insurance may have been the last thing on your mind. If you’ve already left Canada, you may now be asking yourself “Can I buy travel insurance while already abroad?” The answer is yes!
If you’ve left home without travel insurance, or your policy has run out and you’re still on the road, don’t panic. With World Nomads, you can easily get travel insurance while already travelling.
Do I need travel insurance?
Anytime you’re travelling, there’s always going to be some things you can’t anticipate. Because of this, travel insurance may be something you want to consider. As travellers ourselves, we’ve experienced cancelled flights and have been left sitting at the carousel for the bag that never came. We’ve also known nomads who have dealt with everything from biking injuries to stolen iPhones. Nobody enjoys dealing with these things, but they happen.
If you don’t start thinking about all of the “what if’s” until you’ve left Canada though, that’s ok. It’s still easy to get travel insurance while already abroad.
How do I get travel insurance while overseas?
You just need a good internet connection to get a quote for travel insurance while overseas. You’ll answer a few simple questions about your trip and follow the prompts that will outline the coverage and benefits offered by World Nomads travel insurance. You can then compare our Standard and Explorer plans side by side and select the best travel insurance plan for your needs. You’ll see that the Explorer plan costs more but has higher benefit limits and/or sub-limits than the Standard.
Make sure to add any activities you plan to participate in, read and accept the terms and conditions, pay for your insurance, and you’re done. It’s a simple process to buy travel insurance while already travelling, and within just a few minutes you’ll be back to lounging by the pool at your resort.
If I buy travel insurance while already abroad, what’s covered?
When you get a quote and purchase your travel insurance while overseas, you’ll see there’s several things that are covered.
Activities
World Nomads covers more than 250 activities for Canadian residents. When you get a quote and purchase your World Nomads travel insurance, you’ll need to list your planned activities. You won’t be able to add or remove activities after you make your purchase, so make sure you add them all at that time. It is best to list out all possible activities you may do on your trip, even if you aren’t sure. This way you can travel worry-free. If you plan on participating in an activity that isn’t listed in your policy wording, you can contact us to determine if you’ll be covered.
Medical Emergencies
Even if you have a Government Health Insurance Plan, it may only pay a small portion, if any, of your medical expenses while you’re travelling internationally. Unless you have travel insurance that includes emergency medical coverage, you will be responsible for any out-of-pocket expenses you incur when you see medical attention. Medical providers in some areas may even require upfront payment and in some cases, if you have travel insurance, the 24-hour Emergency Assistance team may be able to arrange payment directly with the medical provider.
Travel insurance from World Nomads includes overseas emergency medical coverage for Canadian travellers, and you could be reimbursed for things like an ambulance transfer, medication, or a hospital stay. You will still need to have Government Health Insurance Plan coverage in your home province while you are on your trip though. If you don’t, your total limit for all emergency medical expenses during your trip is limited to CAD $40,000.
Note that if you buy your World Nomads travel insurance plan while already abroad, there will be a 48 hour waiting period before you have emergency medical coverage for injury or sickness.
Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation
The availability of medical care is not the same in all destinations. If you get hurt hiking in a remote jungle in Thailand, you may find limited medical services available. Even if you’ve purchased your travel insurance while already abroad, local ground or air ambulance transportation and emergency evacuation and repatriation coverage will still be included in your World Nomads travel insurance plan. This coverage may help get you to a place that offers the level of care that you need, and could even assist with getting you back home to Canada if your attending physician and the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team agrees that’s best for your treatment.
Baggage
Baggage insurance may help reimburse the cost to replace your belongings if your bag was lost by a common carrier. World Nomads travel insurance includes coverage for lost bags, as well as delayed bags (up to your policy limits.) If your luggage is delayed more than 12 hours, you could be reimbursed for the costs of things like toiletries and a change of clothes.
Trip Interruption
Travel insurance covers many unwelcome situations that can occur while you’re on your trip. What happens if you unexpectedly get hurt while skiing in Japan and have to cut your trip short? Even if you wait to purchase your travel insurance while already abroad, your trip interruption coverage could help you be reimbursed for your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs if you can’t recover those costs from the travel supplier.
Natural Disasters
The Canadian government offers travel advice and advisories for destinations across the world, and you can easily see if there are specific risks for your destination. For example, the Canadian government offers warnings about volcanoes, earthquakes, and tsunamis in Chile. You often can’t plan for the unpredictable forces of nature, and World Nomads offers coverage for unanticipated natural disasters that may cause the Canadian Government to issue a travel advisory against travel.
What isn’t covered by travel insurance while overseas?
Even the best travel insurance plans don’t cover everything. If you’ve thrown back too many cervezas in Mexico and trip and fall, you wouldn’t be covered for that.
A few other things that wouldn’t be covered include:
- Certain pre-existing medical condition(s) as explained in the policy wording
- Sickness or injury that happens within 48 hours of your departure date if you purchase travel insurance while already travelling
- Participation in other activities not listed as covered in your policy
- Travelling against your doctor’s advice
- Not following government ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure
- Travel within your home province
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. It is important you read and understand your policy as it contains benefits, conditions, exclusions and pre-existing condition exclusions. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions, just ask us.
Malaria at Christmas
On Christmas Day, I woke up feeling nausea, fever, headache, and lethargy. After two days the symptoms hadn’t disappeared so I went to a clinic and was admitted with severe malaria. I was in the hospital for two days and had to take medication.
A.G. Brazilian Nomad in Zambia.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Come to a sticky end?
- Called to jury duty?
- Been made redundant?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need drugs?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- You or a family member dead?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Luggage lost?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech Trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance away from home. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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Are there any waiting periods when I buy travel insurance while already abroad?
Yes. If you buy travel insurance while already abroad, there is a waiting period. There will be no coverage for any injury or sickness that occurs in the 48-hour period after your departure date (as defined in the policy).
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If I extend my trip, can I extend my travel insurance while overseas?
If you choose to extend your trip beyond your scheduled return date and you have not made a claim (nor is there any reason to make a claim), you may apply for a policy extension. The request for an extension must be made through and approved by World Nomads prior to your original return date. You must also pay the required additional premium before your original return date.
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If I have made a medical claim on my travel insurance while overseas, can I extend my policy coverage?
Yes, you can request an extension even if you already have a medical claim. However, if you have sought emergency medical treatment or filed a claim for emergency medical treatment prior to extending your trip, any subsequent medical treatment related to your medical emergency will not be covered under the extension of coverage.
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What is the best travel insurance while overseas?
World Nomads offers two different options for Canadian travellers. When you get a quote, you can check out the Standard and Explorer plans to compare coverage side by side. You can then determine the best travel insurance plan is the best for your particular needs.
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What is the cost for travel insurance while already abroad?
You can get an instant quote for travel insurance online and the whole process only takes a few minutes. Be sure to read your policy to see exactly what coverage is included.
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Does travel insurance cover travel within Canada?
Yes, World Nomads covers domestic travel for Canadians travelling within Canada. Your travel insurance can be used anywhere outside of your home province and you can still get a quote and purchase World Nomads travel insurance if you have already started your trip to another province.
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How do I make a travel insurance claim?
You can start a claim online at any time. Make sure you keep all receipts and documentation that you may need for your claim.
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Can my whole family be covered by my travel insurance while overseas?
With World Nomads travel insurance has options for solo travelers, as well as couples and families. You can include up to 2 adults and up to 7 children per policy. When you get a quote, you’ll be asked for information on the others in your travel party.