EN Contact us
Member
Photo © Westend61
  1. World Nomads
  2. Category
  3. Topic
  4. Activity

Travel Insurance for Surfing

Surf smart: Learn how travel insurance coverage for surfing can help when the unexpected hits, for Canadians

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

At a glance:

  • 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.
  • Coverage may include emergency medical treatment due to surf-related injuries, like reef cuts, board collisions, and jellyfish stings.
  • 24/7 non-insurance emergency assistance is available if you run into trouble in or out of the water.
  • Choose from two travel insurance plans: Standard or Explorer, and add optional higher activity level coverage to customize your plan based on your trip style and level of adventure.
  • World Nomads plans also cover 250+ other adventure activities, from scuba diving and snorkeling to zip-lining and jungle trekking.

Whether you're catching waves in Bali, tackling reef breaks in Fiji, or just learning to surf on vacation, accidents can happen. Wipeouts, board collisions, reef cuts, or even jellyfish stings can quickly turn your dream surf trip into one you’d rather forget. That’s where travel insurance can step in — helping with emergency medical costs and other unexpected events.

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 medical care if you’re hurt, reimburse you 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:

  1. Emergency Medical Expenses
    Broken bones or gashes from epic wipeouts

  2. 24/7 Emergency Assistance
    Your first call in any emergency situation

  3. Baggage & Gear Coverage
    Broken or damaged surfboards
    (if transported via a common carrier, like a commercial airline)

  4. Trip Cancellation
    Reimbursements if you’re too sick to go on your surf trip

Get a quote and compare the plans to see which level of coverage is right for you.

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 two 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!

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.

What level of travel insurance coverage do I need for my surf trip?

  • Standard Plan – Best suited for backpackers, budget travelers and families. Includes up to $5,000,000 CAD in emergency medical expenses and $2500 for trip cancellation. This is our most basic plan, but it packs a punch.
  • Explorer Plan – For those trips you’ll be talking about for years to come! Provides enhanced benefit limits, like up to $500 CAD for baggage delays.

You can compare plans and coverage limits when you get a quote.

Nomads tip: World Nomads Travel Insurance can also cover your travels within Canada! Your Government Health Plan is limited once you leave your province. Your travel insurance plan can protect your domestic travels, too.

Get a surf 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
A woman hiking in front of a snow capped mountain

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 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. 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 Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team

  • What does travel insurance for surfing cover?
    Travel insurance plans for surfing may help cover emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, damaged or stolen surf gear, and 24/7 emergency assistance. World Nomads offers plans designed for adventure travellers, including surfers chasing waves internationally.
  • 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.
  • What plan should I choose for a surf trip abroad?

    World Nomads offers two travel insurance plans: Standard and Explorer, and you have the option to choose 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.

  • 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 pro competitions, or damage from regular wear and tear. It also won’t cover unattended baggage 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

Where to find the best surfing on Mexico’s West Coast

Surf town hopping in Costa Rica

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.

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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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
Photo © Getty Images/Simon Winnall
  1. World Nomads
  2. Category
  3. Topic
  4. Activity

Camping Travel Insurance Plans

Canadian residents can protect their camping trips with travel insurance

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

At a glance:

  • 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
  • Coverage for injuries and medical transport if you're seriously hurt while camping
  • Reimbursement for cancelled tours, delays, or interruptions due to covered events
  • Gear & Baggage benefits can help cover lost, stolen, or damaged camping gear and luggage
  • Access to emergency assistance anytime, anywhere

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 adventure when you’re sleeping under the stars. But whenever you're camping, you should 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 camping travel insurance benefits that could help with everything from stolen gear to unexpected 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. We also offer coverage for more than 250 other sports, activities and experiences.

  1. Emergency Medical Expenses
    For snake and spider bites that require emergency medical treatment

  2. Non-insurance Emergency Assistance
    Available 24/7 to assist in an emergency situation

  3. Baggage & Gear Coverage
    Damaged or stolen camping gear or luggage that is lost

  4. 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.

What level of travel insurance coverage do I need for my camping trip?

World Nomads offers two plans for Canadian residents – the Standard and Explorer – each with different levels of coverage. 

  • Standard Plan – This is the most basic plan but includes camping travel insurance as well as up to $5,000,000 CAD in emergency medical expenses and $2,500 CAD for trip cancellation and trip interruption. 
  • Explorer Plan – This plan also covers camping, but has higher limits of coverage.

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.

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
A woman kneeling in a tent packing away her sleeping bag

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. 

Is there 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. 

What may not be covered when on a camping trip?

  • Unattended baggage, camping gear, or personal items
  • 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 in 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 Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team

  • Are camping trips covered under World Nomads Travel Insurance?
    Yes, camping is covered under both 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.
  • What types of incidents are covered while on a camping trip?

    If your trip is cancelled, delayed, or interrupted due to an unforeseen event, you may be able to recover your 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 advising travellers not to travel to a destination on your itinerary. 

  • 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. 

Need destination inspiration for your next camping 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 

Mexico Travel: Kayaking and Camping in Baja’s Loreto Bay

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 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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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
Why Tangier, Morocco Is an Underappreciated Destination
Morocco

Why Tangier, Morocco Is an Underappreciated Destination

Old Tangier was a booming trading center long before more-famous Marrakech was even a camp for camel trains, and yet this historic city is inexplicably overlooked by visitors.

Sri Lanka: 5 Extraordinary National Parks to Explore
Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka: 5 Extraordinary National Parks to Explore

The small island nation of Sri Lanka has a remarkable diversity of landscapes. Nomad Sarah shares some of her favorite places to spot leopards and elephants, snorkel with dolphins and turtles, and hike to spectacular views.
5 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka

5 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Sri Lanka

Nomad Sarah shares her tips for making the most of your Sri Lanka trip: off-the-beaten-path sites to visit, ways to connect with the locals, and Sri Lankan food not to be missed.
5 Great Ways to Experience Germany in Winter
Germany

5 Great Ways to Experience Germany in Winter

Germany is especially charming in winter, with ice skating on frozen canals, hiking through forests, ice-wine tasting and crowd-free skiing.
A Local's Guide to Visiting Berlin, Germany
Germany

A Local's Guide to Visiting Berlin, Germany

There is more to Berlin than "the Wall" – this city is alive with history, but also creativity, culture, and great food.
Getting Away From the Glitz in Dubai
United Arab Emirates

Getting Away From the Glitz in Dubai

There’s more to Dubai than skyscrapers and malls. Nomad Alicia explores Dubai’s art scene and desert wilderness, and immerses herself in Sharjah, the cultural capital of the UAE.

Winter in Switzerland: 4 Affordable Adventures
Switzerland

Winter in Switzerland: 4 Affordable Adventures

Just outside the famous (and famously expensive) Swiss Alps ski resorts are a host of much more affordable and equally memorable adventures. Tim Neville shares his favorite winter experiences.
Green Adventures in the Canary Islands
Spain

Green Adventures in the Canary Islands

Nomad Emma shows us the sustainable side of this Spanish archipelago as she island-hops to go cycling, windsurfing, whale-watching, and sample the local food.