Travel Insurance for Surfing
Surf smart: Learn how Canadian travel insurance coverage for surfing can help when the unexpected hits
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At a glance
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Insurance That Rides With You: Travel insurance for surfers may help cover emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, and damaged surfboards—whether you're surfing in Costa Rica, Europe, or beyond.
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Medical Cover for Surf Injuries: Coverage may include emergency medical treatment due to surf-related injuries, like reef cuts, board collisions, and jellyfish stings.
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Support Beyond the Shoreline: 24/7 emergency assistance is available if you run into trouble in or out of the water.
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From Weekend Swells to Big Adventures: Choose from four travel insurance plans: Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual Multi-Trip and add optional higher activity level coverage to customize your plan based on your trip style and level of adventure.
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More Than Just Surf Insurance: World Nomads plans also cover 250+ other adventure activities, from scuba diving and snorkeling to zip-lining and jungle trekking.
Surfing may not be the first thing that comes to mind in Canada, but more than a million Canadians have surfed while travelling—whether closer to home in year‑round hotspots like Tofino or abroad in search of warmer waves. From catching breaks in Bali to tackling reef surf in Fiji or learning to stand up for the first time on vacation, surfing adventures come with real risks. Wipeouts, board collisions, reef cuts, or even jellyfish stings can quickly turn a dream trip into a stressful one. That’s where travel insurance can step in, helping cover emergency medical expenses and other unexpected events so you can focus on the ride. World Nomads travel insurance plans can cover surfing trips outside of your home province.
Why should I consider travel insurance for my surf trip?
Chasing waves is thrilling, but even the best-planned trip can run into trouble. Wipeouts, sudden illness, or flight delays can disrupt your itinerary, while gear damage or theft can leave you stranded without a board. Travel insurance plans for surfers can help with the costs of emergency medical care if you’re hurt, reimburse you for your prepaid, unused, non-refundable trip costs for cancelled plans if you're too unwell to travel, and assist with lost or damaged equipment.
Whether you're paddling out in Europe or heading to remote islands in search of world-class waves, World Nomads offers plans that support your sense of adventure—backed by 24/7 emergency assistance and coverage for more than 250 sports and activities.
What’s covered by World Nomads Travel Insurance for surfers?
World Nomads Travel Insurance for Canadians may cover a range of problems you could face on and off the water. These include:
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Emergency Medical Expenses
Broken bones or gashes from epic wipeouts -
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Your first call in any emergency situation -
Baggage & Gear Coverage
Broken or damaged surfboards
(if transported via a common carrier, like a commercial airline) -
Trip Cancellation
Reimbursements if you’re too sick to go on your surf trip
Nomads tip: Get a quote and choose your plan first, then the system will prompt you to add the activities you plan to do. Make sure you list them all; you won’t be able to make changes once on your trip.
At World Nomads, we know your surf trip is about more than just riding waves. That’s why our travel insurance coverage for surfers includes protection for over 250 other adventure sports and experiences – from jungle hikes and scuba dives to zip-lining and snorkeling. Whether you’re chasing swells or exploring off the beach, we offer four travel insurance plans with different levels of activity coverage to suit your trip style, budget, and adventure level. Check out our (lengthy) activity list and ensure you pick the plan and activity level that covers everything you plan to do.
*All coverage is subject to plan terms and conditions. Be sure you read and understand your plan documents. Any questions, just ask!
Choosing the Right Surfing Travel Insurance Plan
World Nomads offers four plans for Canadian residents – the Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual Multi-Trip – each with different levels of coverage.
| Standard Plan | Explorer Plan | Epic Plan | Annual Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Covering the basics for your backpacking trip. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' available. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' available. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Get a quote |
Nomads tip: World Nomads Travel Insurance can also cover your travels within Canada! Your Government Health Insurance Plan offers little, if any emergency medical coverage once you leave your home province. Your travel insurance plan can protect your domestic travels, too.
Coverage for 250 activities you love + more
What’s not covered by the travel insurance plan I buy for surfing internationally?
Sorry – we won’t cover you if you do something careless or out of control (like tackle big-wave off-shore surfing when you’re only a beginner). For example, some things we may not cover include:
- Surfing during competitions or as a professional
- Surfing under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Reckless behavior or failure to follow safety advice
- Search-and-rescue costs.
- Any damage related to the wear and tear of sports equipment.
- Unattended baggage, sporting equipment or personal items.
- Travel within your home province.
Top safety tips for your surfing adventure
- Always check local conditions and surf reports
- Wear reef booties and rash guards for protection
- Know your limits — and don’t surf alone
- Use a leash and inspect your gear before hitting the waves
- Respect local surf etiquette
- Save the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Line on your phone and print out a copy of your travel insurance documents. If you need help in a pinch, you don’t want to be searching for who to call.
- 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 from the police or other appropriate authorities. 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 surfing. 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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What does travel insurance for surfing cover?
Travel insurance for surf trips covers emergency medical treatment, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation if you’re injured while riding, plus trip cancellation, interruption, and coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged surf gear checked as luggage. Whether you’re surfing the frigid waters of Canada or catching waves in Costa Rica, our four travel insurance plans can offer you the coverage you need. The Explorer and Epic plans offer higher coverage limits and can cover more expensive surf trips, and offer the ability to add on optional ‘cancel for any reason’ coverage for an additional premium. With 24/7 emergency assistance and protection for over 250 activities, World Nomads helps keep your surfing adventure on track even if the unexpected happens.
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Does travel insurance cover surfboard damage or loss?
World Nomads may offer baggage and sporting equipment coverage and may provide reimbursement if your surfboard is damaged or stolen while travelling; however, it does not cover damage sustained while the gear is in use. Keep receipts and incident reports to support your claim. Wear and tear is not covered.
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Can I get reimbursed if I have to cancel my surf trip?
If your trip is cancelled due to a covered reason—such as unexpected illness or injury—World Nomads’ travel insurance may reimburse you for pre-paid, unused, non-refundable expenses like flights and accommodation. If you want ultimate flexibility to simply change your mind about your trip, you may be able to get optional ‘cancel for any reason’ coverage as well.
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Are surf competitions or professional surfing covered?
No, most travel insurance plans do not cover surfing during competitions or if you’re a professional surfer receiving compensation. Always review your plan details to understand any exclusions related to professional sports.
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What plan should I choose for a surf trip abroad?
World Nomads offers four travel insurance plans: Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual Multi-Trip, and you have the option to purchase additional activity coverage for each. Additional activity coverage may be necessary if you plan to take your adventure up a notch. If you get a quote, you can compare coverages; you will be prompted to list out all your activities. It is then you can see what the additional activity coverage will cost.
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Does travel insurance cover surfing injuries like reef cuts or broken bones?
Yes, if you’re hurt while surfing, World Nomads’ emergency medical coverage may provide reimbursement for doctor visits, hospital stays, or other medical treatment needed due to an accident on the water.
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What’s not covered by surfing travel insurance?
Travel insurance may not cover injuries that occur while surfing under the influence of drugs or alcohol, participating in professional competitions, or damage to your board from regular wear and tear. It also won’t cover unattended baggage or sporting equipment or travel within your home province.
Need destination inspiration?
Already picked your surf spot? Nice. But if you’re dreaming about your next wave—or just want to daydream between sessions—check out some of our surf stories for inspiration. You might just discover your next favorite break.
Surfing in Europe: 6 unexpected spots to explore
This article is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical, legal, insurance, or travel advice and provides only a general summary of certain features that may be available under applicable travel insurance policies. Coverage is subject to the specific terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and pre-existing condition provisions of the applicable insurance policy. In the event of any inconsistency between this article and the wording of any insurance policy, the policy wording shall govern and take precedence. It is important that you read and understand your policy before travelling. If you have questions about your coverage or are unsure how your policy applies to your circumstances, please contact us for clarification.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)
Camping Travel Insurance Plans
Go Further, Camp Safer: Travel Insurance for Canadian Travellers
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At a glance:
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Protection for Lowland & High‑Altitude Camping: World Nomads plans may provide cover for your camping trip up to 3,000 metres, with the ability to pay an extra premium and be covered for camping up to 6,000 metres
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Medical Help When You’re Off‑Grid: Coverage for injuries and emergency medical transport if you're seriously hurt while camping
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Protection for Cancelled or Interrupted Trips: Reimbursement for cancelled tours, delays, or interruptions due to covered events
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Your Camping Gear, Protected: Gear & Baggage benefits can help cover lost, stolen, or damaged camping gear and luggage
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24/7 Support in the Great Outdoors: Access to emergency assistance anytime, anywhere
- Why should I consider travel insurance for camping ?
- Camping travel insurance: What may be covered?
- What level of coverage do I need for camping?
- What may not be covered when camping?
- Tips for Camping Safely
- FAQs
More than 10 million Canadian households identify as campers, highlighting just how popular sleeping under the stars has become. Maybe you're car camping in Banff National Park or taking your camping adventures to new heights in Europe—either way, you’ll surely have an epic experience. But whenever you're camping, it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. If you’ll be camping while travelling, you may want to protect your adventure with World Nomads Travel Insurance for camping. Our travel protection plans include a range of benefits that may help with everything from stolen gear to unexpected emergency medical expenses.
Why should I consider travel insurance for my camping trip?
From a nasty case of poison ivy to a badly sprained ankle putting a halt to your adventure, unexpected issues can derail even the most carefully planned camping trips. Travel insurance for camping may help you bounce back quickly with support for emergencies, delays, and disruptions. With coverage that is flexible to your needs, it’s a smart way to travel confidently – whether you're pitching a tent at a primitive site or living large in a luxury RV.
Nomads tip: Each policy includes a '10-Day Right to Examine' period, giving you time after purchase to review the details, making sure the coverage works for you. If you're unsatisfied for any reason, you can cancel the policy and receive a full refund.
Camping travel insurance: What may be covered?
There’s nothing we love more than sitting around a campfire making s’mores. Since we love the great outdoors too, we’ve designed our plans to include travel insurance for camping.
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Emergency Medical Expenses
For snake and spider bites that require emergency medical treatment -
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Available 24/7 to assist in an emergency situation -
Baggage & Gear Coverage
Damaged or stolen camping gear or luggage that is lost -
Trip Delays, Interruptions & Cancellations
A money-saver if inclement weather keeps you from enjoying your camping trip
Get a quote and compare the plans to see which level of coverage is right for you.
Choosing the Right Rock Climbing Travel Insurance Plan
World Nomads offers four plans for Canadian residents – the Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual Multi-Trip – each with different levels of coverage.
| Standard Plan | Explorer Plan | Epic Plan | Annual Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Covering the basics for your camping trip. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' available. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' available. Get a quote |
Ideal for: Coverage Includes:
Get a quote |
When you’re camping, you’ll probably also be doing other things like hiking or biking. That’s totally fine, because there’s over 250 other sports, activities and experiences that could be covered when you purchase travel insurance for camping. When you purchase your policy, you’ll need to list camping, and all of the other activities that you plan to participate in while on your trip. 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. Costs may vary depending on the additional activities you list.
- Level 1 Activities: Camping, hiking, and backpacking up to 3,000 metres
- Level 3 Activities: Camping, hiking, and backpacking up to 6,000 metres
If you are planning to participate in an activity that isn’t listed in our policy wording, you will need to contact us to determine if you will be covered.
Nomads tip: World Nomads Travel Insurance can also cover your camping trip within Canada! Your Government Health Plan is limited once you leave your province. Your travel insurance plan can protect your domestic travels outside of your home province, too.
Coverage for 250 activities you love + more
Is there travel insurance for summer camps?
Summer camp brings back such fond memories of our childhood, but we know from our own experience, accidents can happen. If you’re sending your children to summer camp, travel insurance may help with a variety of unexpected situations, including injuries related to more than 250+ sports, activities and experiences such as swimming and archery. If the camp is outside of your home province, you can purchase a policy for your child that includes travel insurance for summer camp. If you have more than one child, you can even include them in the same policy.
How about Everest Base Camp travel insurance?
If you’re headed to Everest Base Camp, travel insurance coverage for Asia may help with a variety of situations – even while you’re hiking there. You’ll need to pay an extra premium to be covered for hiking and camping up to 6,000 metres, though. If you get hurt and your condition is severe, acute, or life-threatening, and adequate treatment is not available in your immediate area, travel insurance for Everest Base Camp may also include benefits such as evacuation and transportation to a medical facility best suited for your care, subject to approval from the treating medical physician and the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team. To avoid scam risks, make sure you contact our team before arranging your own evacuation. Also, if you’re planning on heading for the summit, please be aware that hiking above 6,000 metres is excluded.
What may not be covered when on a camping trip?
- Leaving your baggage, camping gear, or personal items unattended
- Participation in other activities not listed as covered in your policy
- Ignoring your doctor if they have explicitly advised you not to go camping
- Not following government ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories issued by the Canadian government
- Camping or travelling within your home province
- Camping, hiking, or backpacking at elevations over 6,000 metres
Top safety tips we recommend for your camping trip
- Pay attention to the weather. Take a look at the forecast before you go, but since conditions can change quickly, always keep an eye on it while you’re camping.
- Don’t leave unsecured food out, as that can attract wildlife. You can store it in your car, a bear-safe container, or a food storage locker.
- Use insect repellent, but still check for ticks at least once a day when outdoors.
- Keep campfires small and contained, and never leave them unattended.
- Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated.
- Arrive at your campsite before dark to get everything set up.
- Choose the right camping gear for your particular trip.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for camping. 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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Are camping trips covered under World Nomads Travel Insurance?
Yes, camping is covered under all plans offered by World Nomads Travel Insurance, but make sure you list this as an activity you’ll be participating in when you purchase your policy. Camping up to 3,000 metres is considered a Level 1 activity and is automatically covered, but you’ll still need to list this as an activity when you purchase your camping travel insurance policy. However, you’ll need to pay an additional premium to be covered for any Level 2 and Level 3 activities like camping, hiking, and backpacking up to 6,000 metres. If you aren’t sure if something is covered, we suggest you contact us to ask.
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What types of incidents are covered while on a camping trip?
If your trip is delayed or interrupted due to an unforeseen event, you may be able to recover your unused, non-refundable, prepaid travel expenses (up to the policy limits), and this could include unused, pre-paid, non-refundable tours that you paid for in advance. If you trip and fall while hiking and require medical assistance, emergency medical coverage could come in handy in the case of an unexpected injury. You could also be covered for unplanned situations such as lost bags or Canadian government travel advisories warning travellers not to travel to a destination on your itinerary.
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Can I get coverage after my trip starts?
Yes. If your trip has already started, World Nomads can still offer you coverage. You can buy a plan online anytime, from anywhere in the world. If you buy a plan after departing from your home province, you won’t be covered for any loss or expense related to any injury or sickness that occurs in the 48-hour period after your departure date. Your departure date will be 12:01am local time on the date that you are originally scheduled to start your trip as shown on your policy certificate.
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Does World Nomads offer travel insurance for camping overseas?
Yes, some of the best camping spots are outside of Canada and World Nomads doesn’t want to limit your fun. For example, if you have travel insurance for Argentina, you could have the opportunity to camp in the beautiful Andes Mountains. When you get a quote for camping travel insurance, you’ll need to input where you’ll be travelling.
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Can I purchase summer camp travel insurance for my kids?
If you’re sending your children to summer camp, travel insurance may help with a variety of unexpected situations, including injuries related to more than 250+ sports, activities and experiences such as swimming and archery. If the camp is outside of your home province, you can purchase a policy for your child that includes travel insurance for summer camp. If you have more than one child, you can even include them in the same policy.
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Can I purchase travel insurance for Everest Base Camp?
Yes, but you’ll need to pay an extra premium to be covered for hiking and camping up to 6,000 metres when you purchase Everest Base Camp travel insurance. If you get hurt and your condition is severe, acute, or life-threatening, and adequate treatment is not available in your immediate area, travel insurance for Everest Base Camp may also include benefits such as evacuation and transportation to a medical facility best suited for your care, subject to approval from the treating medical physician and the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team. Keep in mind that no coverage will apply while you’re hiking above 6,000 metres, though.
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What should I do if I get hurt while I’m camping?
You can contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team and they can help direct you to nearby medical facilities. They can also translate for you if you’re travelling outside Canada and your medical team doesn’t speak English or French. Make sure you keep all documentation including doctor reports, invoices, etc. You’ll need those things if you plan to make a claim.
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Does World Nomads Travel Insurance cover other activities during my trip?
Yes, you could be covered for more than 250 other sports, activities and experiences. Things like hiking, biking, and swimming could all be covered. When you purchase your policy, you’ll need to list all of the activities that you plan to participate in while on your trip. 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. If you’re participating in an activity and not sure if it’s covered, you can contact us and ask.
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Do I get my money back if I cancel a trip?
Trip cancellation coverage is offered on all four plans offered by World Nomads, and you could be reimbursed for pre-paid, unused, non-refundable expenses like flights, tours and accommodations if your trip is cancelled for a covered reason. If you want ultimate flexibility to simply change your mind about your trip, you may be able to get optional ‘cancel for any reason’ coverage as well.
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What happens if my bags are delayed?
If your checked-in bags are delayed more than 12 hours on the way to your destination, your plan could reimburse you for the cost (up to the policy limits) of essential items like toiletries and a change of clothes until you and your bag are reunited.
Need destination inspiration for your next trip?
Not sure where your next camping adventure should take you? Check out some of our favorite camping locations around the world and get destination-specific travel insurance tips to help you plan with confidence.
Camping in Argentina: A Nomad’s Guide
4WD Northern Namibia: Camping on the Huab River
Nature Getaways: Hiking and Camping in Glacier National Park
This article is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical, legal, insurance, or travel advice and provides only a general summary of certain features that may be available under applicable travel insurance policies. Coverage is subject to the specific terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and pre-existing condition provisions of the applicable insurance policy. In the event of any inconsistency between this article and the wording of any insurance policy, the policy wording shall govern and take precedence. It is important that you read and understand your policy before travelling. If you have questions about your coverage or are unsure how your policy applies to your circumstances, please contact us for clarification.Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Work emergency?
- Weather delay?
- Travel companion sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
- Need a hospital?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Ambulance transfers
- Medevac flights
- Medical escort services
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Stolen I.D.s
- Checked-in sports equipment
- Damaged luggage
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
Travel Insurance when visiting South Africa
Travel insurance to get you exploring South Africa’s amazing wildlife, its mesmerizing landscapes and incredible culture.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
South Africa has so many calling cards, not only is it home to the Big Five, but it also has a rich history, culture, impressive wine regions and stunning surfing beaches. You always leave richer (culturally) than when you arrived.
What’s covered
With World Nomads you can buy travel insurance before you land in O.R Tambo International Airport or Cape Town International Airport, or while you're already traveling around South Africa.
World Nomads offers cover for many activities ranging from mountain biking to skiing, surfing, kayaking and scuba diving. All our plans offer cover for:
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- Cancellation
- Baggage
- Travel delay/interruption
We know how impactful Cape Town, Durban, and the 100-plus national parks here are. So it’s important to be have travel insurance in case something unexpected arises.
As careful as international travelers are, belongings do get stolen, flights get cancelled, and illness or injury can happen. If you forgot to buy travel insurance before you left home, then don’t stress, with World Nomads you can buy travel insurance before you get on the plane or while you're already traveling around beautiful South Africa, it’s up to you.
Depending on your country of residence and the level of cover you have chosen, our policies may cover you for:
- Coverage for extended stays - If you want to extend your trip, we can help keep you covered. Just sign into your World Nomads membership, select your current policy and follow the links to extend your cover online. Terms and conditions apply.
- Emergency medical and evacuation - If you become ill or are injured and require emergency treatment or evacuation, your policy may cover you for medical and surgical treatment, hospital fees, and in some cases, specialist counselling. Limits do apply so refer to the policy wording for details.
- Baggage and personal belongings – If your luggage or personal items are accidentally damaged or stolen, you may be able to claim reimbursement. If your luggage is delayed more than 24 hours, you may be entitled to replacement costs for essential items
- Activities cover - We cover more than 150 activities worldwide - everything from backpacking to kayaking, hiking, even bungee jumping, but not all are covered under every plan, so read the full list here.
- Cover for some Coronavirus-related events - To find out what cover may be available to you, read our What’s Covered for Coronavirus article, which has all of the details, including benefit limits, conditions and exclusions.
Do I need travel insurance when visiting South Africa?
The answer is Yes. Whether you’re on a game park safari, or you want to discover the beautiful coastal Garden Route, travel insurance can provide a safety net if your dream trip is derailed due to unexpected events especially when it comes to cover for stolen or damaged baggage.
If you’ve done your research, you’ll know that parts of South Africa can be dangerous with car–jackings, armed robberies, and petty theft. Johannesburg is a city where you need to use common-sense as there are several no-go zones for visitors. When on the road please drive with caution as farmers often don’t fence their livestock, so it’s not uncommon for there to be a stray animal on the road to navigate around. If you’re venturing through a game reserve, remember you’re in the ‘wild’, the elephants, rhinos, cheetahs and lions aren’t tame.
If you find yourself in a crisis, our Emergency Assistance Team is available 24/7. The team can also help during an emergency if you’re having trouble with a language you don’t know.
Two travel insurance plans that may assist with your travel needs
World Nomads recognizes that the level of cover each traveler needs depends on their individual circumstances. That’s precisely why we offer two levels of cover - Standard and Explorer.
Depending on your country of residence and the plan you have purchased you may be covered, for example, if you plan on renting a vehicle and driving between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park. If you’ve purchased the Explorer option your cover would include a rental car excess and may cover the cost of a replacement key should one be required. The Explorer Plan may also include benefits associated with hijacking, as well as higher baggage reimbursement limits, both of which are important given the rates of crime in the country.
Cover for activities and sports when in South Africa
South Africa offers countless possibilities when it comes to outdoor activities, for example, white water rafting, hiking, bungee jumping, and even shark cage diving.
For the active traveler, World Nomads covers all Level 1 adventure sports, activities and experiences such as hot-air ballooning and camping but if you intend to participate in higher risk activities you must upgrade your cover when you buy your policy by selecting all the activities and sports you’ll be undertaking and pay the additional premium for those activities we cover.
Depending on your country of residence and the level of cover you’ve chosen, you may need to add activities to your policy (check your policy wording carefully as terms and conditions apply).
What’s not covered?
Some things we don’t cover include:
- Pre-existing medical conditions as explained in your policy wording.
- Traveling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that is subject to a ‘Do Not Travel’ or ‘Avoid Non-essential Travel’ warning.
- Participation in a sport or activity not listed as covered in the policy wording or agreed by World Nomads or where you haven’t paid the required additional premium.
- Additional costs incurred as a result of not immediately telling the travel agent, tour operator or provider of transport or accommodation that you need to cancel the trip.
- Loss or damage to luggage due to age, wear and tear, loss of value.
- Damage to sporting equipment caused while in use.
What other tips for safe travel do you offer?
We have compiled this general information if you’re looking for more South Africa travel inspiration. We also have information on the latest travel safety alerts for South Africa.
About World Nomads
World Nomads policies are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance – and it’s often cheaper than you might think! Featuring coverage for more than 150 activities, quotes are fast, free and you can do it all online at www.worldnomads.com. All the information we provide about travel insurance is a summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions of the travel insurance plans described. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your Policy Wording for a full description of coverage.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- 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 meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- 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 team
