• How hiking insurance can protect your adventure
• What's covered for hiking and trekking?
• Choose a plan to suit your needs
• Annual Multi-Trip or Single Trip Travel Insurance for your hiking adventure abroad?
• What's not covered for hiking?
• How to get the most out of your hiking travel insurance
• Pre-existing medical conditions
• Some FAQs

How hiking insurance can protect your adventure

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.

If your heart's set on trekking beyond the UK, whether you're chasing the sun on Spain’s Camino de Santiago or exploring the ancient Inca Trail in Peru, a bit of preparation goes a long way.

You’ve got your gear sorted, your route planned, but have you considered travel insurance? Just like a good pair of boots, hiking travel insurance is designed to support you when the unexpected happens, ensuring your adventure continues smoothly even when the trail doesn’t.

What’s covered for hiking and trekking?

Are you a seasoned British hiker on the lookout for your next pinnacle or do you prefer the simplicity of a family weekend walk? No matter how adventurous your hiking plans, World Nomads plans may offer cover (up to the benefit limits) for:

• Emergency medical assistance: overseas emergency medical expenses at a hospital or medical centre if you suffer an unexpected injury or illness while hiking. Either you, or someone on your behalf, must contact our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance team. Expenses must be medically necessary and agreed by the insurer in order to receive reimbursement of your covered expenses.
• Evacuation: approved overseas emergency medical evacuation to the most appropriate medical facility for treatment or repatriation back to the UK. Emergency transport is subject to approval from the 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance team.
• Trip cancellation: has a sick or injured travelling companion put a stop to your hiking break? Your plan may be able to recover the unused, non-refundable travel expenses.
• Gear protection: had your camera stolen while hiking in Thailand? Our gear coverage can help with the cost of replacing belongings that were swiped from under your nose. You’ll need a police report to submit with your claim as well as copies of the original receipts and supporting documentation.
• Lost or damaged baggage cover: have your bags or personal items gone missing? You must report all theft or loss to the police as well as to the common carrier, service provider or other local authority as soon as possible. You must also get a Property Irregularity Report or other incident report from the carrier so you can submit it with your claim, as well as a police report, copies of the original receipts and any luggage tickets.
• Delayed baggage cover: has your checked-in baggage been delayed for more than 24 hours? Your plan may cover essential items you need to buy while you’re waiting for your baggage to arrive.
• Coronavirus Cover: we offer cover for some Coronavirus related events. To find out more click here.

All World Nomads policies also carry the following services:

• SmartDelay™: with World Nomads' SmartDelay, you’ll be covered if your flight’s delayed. Enjoy access to airport lounges and relax comfortably while you wait, ensuring your journey to the trailhead is as smooth as possible, even when things don’t go as planned.

• World Nomads powered by Air Doctor: unexpected health issues can arise when hiking abroad; whether it’s a sprained ankle on the trail or a sudden illness, World Nomads' Air Doctor feature connects you with trusted local doctors worldwide, ensuring you receive the right medical care when you need it most. 

Choose a plan that suits your needs

Both the Standard and Explorer plans offer cover for hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking up to 3,000 metres on recognised routes. Got the urge to climb a little higher? There’s an option to upgrade your coverage levels (Level 2: 4,500m, Level 4: 6,000m). Make sure you select these upgrades when you purchase, as you can’t upgrade halfway up the mountain.

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

Annual Multi-Trip or Single Trip Travel Insurance For Your Hiking Adventure Abroad?

When choosing between a Single-Trip or Annual Multi-Trip policy for your hiking adventures, it’s all about how often you plan to trek.

• Single-Trip policy covers hikes for your one-off trips.
• Annual Multi-Trip offers year-round coverage for multiple journeys—ideal if you’re planning several hikes (or other adventures) abroad throughout the year.

What’s not covered for hiking?

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

• Pre-existing medical conditions as explained in your Policy Wording.
• Hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking / fell running: where ropes, picks or other specialist climbing equipment is required.
• Free mountaineering, climbing in remote or inaccessible regions, exploratory expeditions and new routes, high altitude climbing over 6,000 metres, mountaineering expeditions or expeditions to the Arctic or Antarctica, or of a dangerous nature.
• Search and rescue operations to find or rescue you as per the Policy Wording.
• Any adventure or sport activity graded above the level of activity cover you have selected.
• If you refuse to be repatriated or evacuated.
• If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or what we or the 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team advise you to do.
• If you do not follow the local safety advice and warnings.
• Expenses that can be recovered from other sources e.g. transport carriers, accommodation providers, credit card issuers or other insurance policies.
• Medical treatment that can wait until your return to the UK.
• If you don't keep your gear safe and secure at all times. 

How to get the most out of your hiking travel insurance

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

• Inform a local assistance company of your trekking route and policy details.
• If you require any medical treatment during your trip while outside of the UK please contact our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance Team before incurring medical costs.
• Check which countries your trail passes through to ensure your policy covers you for that region.

Pre-existing medical conditions

You are not eligible to buy a policy if you travel against medical advice, travel with the intention of receiving medical treatment, or have a terminal illness. World Nomads policies cannot cover claims due to Pre-Existing Medical Conditions (PEMC), regardless of whether the condition is serious or not. You can still purchase a World Nomads policy, but the PEMC exclusion cannot be removed, and you will be responsible for any related costs.

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

• Consider travel insurance when going hiking?
• Choose a plan to suit your hiking and trekking needs
• Hiking and similar activities level of cover guide
• What else do we cover
• World Nomads love hiking & trekking
• Common injuries and safety tips
• What’s not covered?

Consider travel insurance when going hiking?

Are you ready to explore the world’s most breathtaking trails such as the Kesugi Ridge Trail through the Alaskan wilderness or scaling the peaks of Patagonia? Don’t take a step until you consider World Nomads travel insurance.

As a New Zealander, your adventures in hiking and trekking deserve travel protection. From emergency medical expenses to trip cancellation, our Standard and Explorer plans offer a range of benefits that will allow you to focus on the journey ahead and not on potential mishaps.

Join fellow adventurers who have trusted World Nomads for over 20 years. Your next great adventure awaits.

Choose a plan to suit your hiking and trekking needs

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

An upgrade for certain sports and activities may be required. Check out our FAQ article on covered sports and activities, which can help answer any questions you have around cover and selecting any optional upgrades for the activities you have planned when you buy your policy. Remember, you can’t add any sports or activities after your travel insurance has been purchased.

Hiking and similar activities level of cover guide:

• Bushwalking: Level 1 cover required
• Hiking over 6,000 metres in elevation: not covered
• Hiking up to 2,000 metres in elevation: Level 1 cover required
• Hiking up to 6,000 metres in elevation: level 3 cover required
• Mountaineering: not covered
• Free soloing: not covered
• Climbing: not covered

Terms, conditions, limits, exclusions apply, please read your Policy Document carefully and contact us if you have any questions.

What else do we cover?

World Nomads travel insurance is designed for adventurous souls like you who plan to hike and trek across stunning landscapes. Here are some of the many benefits offered by World Nomads:

1. Sports and activities cover: World Nomads provides coverage for a wide range of activities, including hiking and trekking, scuba diving, rock climbing, surfing, camping and many more.

2. Overseas medical assistance: If you find yourself injured on a remote trail in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, emergency medical assistance can be lifesaving. We offer emergency medical coverage so you can get the treatment you need.

3. Evacuation cover: your hiking adventure may be far away from medical facilities. With our cover, you could get transported to the medical facility best for your care, subject to approval from our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. If your injuries are worse than first thought, you could be repatriated back to New Zealand.

4. Cover for gear loss and theft: Hiking often involves expensive equipment. Should your backpack or super expensive hiking boots go missing or be stolen, World Nomads may help compensate you for any lost or stolen gear.

5. Cancellations and delays: Unexpected last minute cancellations or flight delays can derail plans. If your trek on Mount Kilimanjaro needs to be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, you may be covered.

6. Worldwide emergency support: The 24/7 Emergency Assistance team is ready to help travellers around the globe, you’ll never feel alone during your adventures.

7. The freedom to explore: Your passion for adventure shouldn’t come with constant worry. Knowing that you're insured allows you to fully immerse yourself in incredible hikes like those found along Norway's fjords without fear.

World Nomads love hiking & trekking

As passionate hikers ourselves, we’ve designed our plans to cover hiking from the most intrepid trek to lazy weekend hike. Here are just a few of the most epic hikes and treks to explore worldwide:

• Inca Trail, Peru
• Anapurna Sanctuary Trek, Nepal
• Gotemba Trail, Japan
• Torres Del Paine, Chile
• Whale Trail, South Africa
• Paria River Canyon, USA
• Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

*All plans are different. Depending on the altitude you're hiking to, you may need upgrade your policy at the time of purchase. Conditions and exclusions apply. Read the Policy Document carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport option for your trip.

With World Nomads you can get a quote, make a claim, or extend your policy instantly online, anytime, from anywhere.

Common injuries and safety tips

Hiking and trekking can be tough on the body, so it’s smart to prepare for some of the common injuries that can arise:

• Sprained ankles and knee Injuries: Uneven terrain can strain joints. Invest in sturdy footwear with good ankle support and take breaks to prevent fatigue.
• Dehydration and heat stroke: Staying hydrated is essential, especially in hot climates. Carry plenty of water and drink fluids regularly.
• Altitude sickness: If you’re trekking at high altitudes, ascend gradually and allow your body time to adjust. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness.

If you find yourself injured and unable to continue your trek, get in touch with the Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible, seek out local medical help, and save any documentation for your claim.

What’s not covered?

While there are several things we can offer coverage for, there are also things we just won’t cover. These include, but are not limited to:

• If you travel against medical advice or neglect to adhere to the New Zealand government’s ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure. For more information check out the SafeTravel website.
• Any pre-existing medical condition unless otherwise expressly stated in your Policy Document.
• Participation in a sport or activity not listed as covered in the Policy Document or agreed by World Nomads or where you haven’t paid the required additional premium.
• Extreme climbing and mountaineering: Ensure that the trek or hike your planning is covered in the first place. Some high-risk activities like may be excluded or require a certain level of cover. Be sure to check the Policy Document so that your chosen activity is covered.
• Ignoring safety guidelines: Insurance might not cover injuries resulting from not following safety advice, trekking without a guide in high-risk areas, or venturing into restricted zones.
• Expenses you incur after you return to New Zealand.
• Unattended baggage or personal items.
• Working or participating professionally in any activity or sport.

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

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

• Consider travel insurance when going hiking?
• Choose a plan to suit your hiking and trekking needs
• Hiking and similar activities level of cover guide
• What else do we cover
• World Nomads love hiking & trekking
• Common injuries and safety tips
• What's not covered

Consider travel insurance when going hiking?

Are you ready to explore the world’s most breathtaking trails like New Zealand's Tongariro Alpine Crossing or scaling the peaks of Patagonia? Don’t take a step until you consider World Nomads travel insurance.

As an Australian traveller, your adventures in hiking and trekking deserve travel protection. From emergency medical expenses to trip cancellation, our Standard and Explorer plans offer a range of benefits that will allow you to focus on the journey ahead and not on potential mishaps.

Join fellow adventurers who have trusted World Nomads for over 20 years. Your next great adventure awaits.

Choose a plan to suit your hiking and trekking needs

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

An upgrade for certain sports and activities may be required. Check out our FAQ article on covered sports and activities, which can help answer any questions you have around cover and selecting any optional upgrades for the activities you have planned when you buy your policy. Remember, you can’t add any sports or activities after your travel insurance has been purchased.

Terms, conditions, limits, exclusions apply, please read your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) carefully and contact us if you have any questions.

Hiking and similar activities level of cover guide:

• Bushwalking: Level 1 cover required
• Hiking over 6,000 metres in elevation: not covered
• Hiking up to 2,000 metres in elevation: Level 1 cover required
• Hiking up to 6,000 metres in elevation: level 3 cover required
• Mountaineering: not covered
• Free soloing: not covered
• Climbing: not covered

What else do we cover?

World Nomads travel insurance is designed for adventurous souls like you who plan to hike and trek across stunning landscapes. Here are some of the many benefits offered by World Nomads:

1. Sports and activities cover: World Nomads provides coverage for a wide range of activities, including hiking and trekking, scuba diving, rock climbing, surfing, camping and many more.

2. Overseas medical assistance: If you find yourself injured on a remote trail in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, emergency medical assistance can be lifesaving. We offer emergency medical coverage so you can get the treatment you need.

3. Evacuation cover: your hiking adventure may be far away from medical facilities. With our cover, you could get transported to the medical facility best for your care, subject to approval from our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. If your injuries are worse than first thought, you could be repatriated back to Australia.

4. Cover for gear loss and theft: Hiking often involves expensive equipment. Should your backpack or super expensive hiking boots go missing or be stolen, World Nomads may help compensate you for any lost or stolen gear.

5. Cancellations and delays: Unexpected last minute cancellations or flight delays can derail plans. If your trek on Mount Kilimanjaro needs to be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, you may be covered.

6. Worldwide emergency support: The 24/7 Emergency Assistance team is ready to help travellers around the globe, you’ll never feel alone during your adventures.

7. The freedom to explore: Your passion for adventure shouldn’t come with constant worry. Knowing that you're insured allows you to fully immerse yourself in incredible hikes like those found along Norway's fjords without fear.

World Nomads love hiking & trekking

As passionate hikers ourselves, we’ve designed our plans to cover hiking from the most intrepid trek to lazy weekend hike. Here are just a few of the most epic hikes and treks to explore worldwide:

• Inca Trail, Peru
• Anapurna Sanctuary Trek, Nepal
• Gotemba Trail, Japan
• Torres Del Paine, Chile
• Whale Trail, South Africa
• Paria River Canyon, USA
• Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

*All plans are different. Depending on the altitude you're hiking to, you may need upgrade your policy at the time of purchase. Conditions and exclusions apply. Read the PDS carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport option for your trip.

With World Nomads you can get a quote, make a claim, or extend your policy instantly online, anytime, from anywhere.

Common injuries and safety tips

Hiking and trekking can be tough on the body, so it’s smart to prepare for some of the common injuries that can arise:

• Sprained ankles and knee Injuries: Uneven terrain can strain joints. Invest in sturdy footwear with good ankle support and take breaks to prevent fatigue.
• Dehydration and heat stroke: Staying hydrated is essential, especially in hot climates. Carry plenty of water and drink fluids regularly.
• Altitude sickness: If you’re trekking at high altitudes, ascend gradually and allow your body time to adjust. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness.

If you find yourself injured and unable to continue your trek, get in touch with the Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible, seek out local medical help, and save any documentation for your claim.

What's not covered?

While there are several things we can offer coverage for, there are also things we just won’t cover. These include, but are not limited to:

• If you travel against medical advice or neglect to adhere to the Australian government’s ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure. For more information check out the smartraveller website.
• Any pre-existing medical condition unless otherwise expressly stated in your PDS.
• Participation in a sport or activity not listed as covered in the PDS or agreed by World Nomads or where you haven’t paid the required additional premium.
• Extreme climbing and mountaineering: Ensure that the trek or hike your planning is covered in the first place. Some high-risk activities like may be excluded or require a certain level of cover. Be sure to check the PDS so that your chosen activity is covered.
• Ignoring safety guidelines: Insurance might not cover injuries resulting from not following safety advice, trekking without a guide in high-risk areas, or venturing into restricted zones.
• Expenses you incur after you return to Australia.
• Unattended baggage or personal items.
• Working or participating professionally in any activity or sport.

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