Travel insurance for kayaking and rafting
Everything you need to know about travel insurance for kayaking and rafting
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As featured in:
- What kayaking and rafting do we cover?
- What do those river grades mean?
- Choosing the right policy for you
- What is covered by World Nomads Travel Insurance?
- What's not covered
Going kayaking or rafting on your vacation?
Exotic sunsets, the water lapping at your bow, hurtling down river rapids; experiences on the water are often the most unforgettable part of any holiday. From paddling with the family in the Florida Keys, to sea kayaking the turquoise waters around Indonesia’s Raja Ampat archipelago, get your next holiday flowing on a kayaking or rafting adventure.
What Kayaking and Rafting do we cover?
When you get a travel insurance quote for your kayaking or rafting trip, you need to double-check your policy wording the Adventure Sports & Activities list. Level 1 activities are automatically covered when you buy your policy. You’ll need to pay an additional premium to be covered for Level 2 and Level 3 activities such as kayaking outside coastal waters and sea kayaking beyond three nautical miles. You’ll need to list the activities you plan to participate in when you buy your policy.
The following categories have coverage under our plans:
- Kayaking
- Sea kayaking
- Sea canoeing
- White water rafting
- Black water rafting and cave tubing (grades 1-5)
- Hydrospeeding (grades 1-5)
- River boarding (grades 1-5)
- Snow Rafting
What do those River Grades Mean?
Several activity options above mention International River Grades which can be described as:
- Class 1: Easy
- Class 2: Novice
- Class 3: Beginner/Intermediate
- Class 4: Advanced
- Class 5: Expert
- Class 6: Extreme and Exploratory Rapids
We offer coverage for river grades (also known as classes) from Class 1 to Class 5. We do not offer coverage for Class 6 rapids.
When you are about to head down the river or rapids, always be aware of the rating. Read more about the International River Grading System from the American Whitewater association.
Choosing the Right Policy for You
We offer two plans – Standard and Explorer – each offers different limits and sub-limits of coverage. It is up to you to choose what plan has the right level of coverage to meet your travel needs and that matches your specific activity plans.
In addition to kayaking and rafting, we over coverage for more than 150 adventure activities, sports, work and volunteer experiences for our Canadian nomads. If you don’t see an activity you wish to pursue in the policy wording, please contact us.
What is Covered by World Nomads Travel Insurance?
Our policies may cover you on your kayaking and rafting adventures (up to the policy limits) for:
- Emergency medical: Emergency medical coverage could come in handy if you suffer an accident or injury that results in you going to the hospital. Note, you need to be covered under your province’s GHIP, otherwise coverage will be limited to $40,000.
- Ambulance transportation: your water adventure may be far away from medical facilities. World Nomad plans cover the cost to transport you to the nearest qualified medical service provider.
- Emergency evacuation and repatriation: If your treating physician recommends to us that you return to your home province because of your emergency medical condition, we may be able to via the most cost-effective itinerary to return you home, subject to approval from our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team. Make sure you contact our emergency assistance team before seeking emergency medical treatment or evacuation.
- Trip cancellation or interruption: if your trip is cancelled or interrupted due to an unforeseen event like an illness or injury, you may be able to recover your nonrefundable, prepaid travel expenses.
- And more! Check out what else is covered on our policies.
Rafting and kayaking: What’s not covered
While there are several kayaking and rafting adventures we can offer coverage for, there are also things we just won’t cover. These include, but are not limited to:
- Any Class 6 kayaking or rafting trips – sorry, but that’s a no-go for us.
- If you travel against medical advice.
- Any pre-existing medical condition unless otherwise expressly stated in your policy.
- Participation in a sport or activity which is shown as being excluded in your policy wording.
- Expenses you incur after you return home.
- Travel within your home province.
- Working or participating professionally as an athlete in any activity or sport.
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, of if you have questions about your coverage, just ask us.
Safety Tips and Handy Hints for your Paddling Trip
- Before you launch, remember to check the International River Grading of the river or water you’re on so you won’t invalidate your coverage.
- Kayaking and rafting are physically demanding – make sure you’re up to it. Plan a trip within your capabilities.
- Check the weather, check your equipment, and check the credentials of your instructor/guides.
- Wear the right gear – it can get cold on the water and being cold and wet can lead to hypothermia.
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 teamTravel Insurance for Mountain Biking
Whether you’re a hobby mountain biker or serious fiend, travel insurance for mountain biking can stand you in good stead when the mountain wins.
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As featured in:
Check what’s covered before you head up the mountain
Nothing shouts adventure for Irish travellers than the speed and thrills of mountain biking. But as fun as mountain biking can be it can also lead to nasty cuts, bruises and injuries. That’s why travel insurance comes in handy when your mountain bike ride doesn’t go to plan.
What’s covered for mountain biking?Our plans can help you navigate any unexpected mishaps and help get you back on track. World Nomads may offer cover (up to the policy limits) for:
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Two travel insurance plans to suit your sport and activity needs
Unfortunately we can’t help with that punctured tyre but if you’ve seriously hurt yourself World Nomads Travel Insurance Standard and Explorer plans can offer coverage for unforeseen medical costs on your next mountain biking adventure overseas. Both our plans offer optional upgrades so if you plan on taking lifts for some gripping descents, you must upgrade to the activity level that suits your needs at the time you purchase your policy.
What do you do if something happens to you?
We understand that unexpected accidents and illnesses may strike at any moment, that’s why the World Nomads 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team is here to help you navigate any issues you may have if you end up in hospital. If you’re admitted to hospital, you (or someone else) must notify our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team as soon as reasonably possible. Your medical expenses can be paid directly to the hospital, where possible, once cover is confirmed. For more information on what to do if you need emergency assistance while overseas check out our Overseas Medical Treatment and Hospitalisation Help Centre article.
Travel insurance tip: Irish travellers, if you require any medical treatment during your trip while outside of Ireland (and as soon as your medically able to do so) you’ll need to contact your private medical insurance (PMI) provider (if applicable) and follow their emergency medical procedures and claims procedures. Where your PMI provider cannot provide assistance, get in touch with our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance Team as soon as reasonably possible before incurring medical costs, and also please provide us with details of your PMI provider to help us coordinate your care. For more information on what to do please refer to Section 8 Medical Sections of Cover, Important Information, in your Policy Wording.
You can also claim for your non-refundable costs of cancelling your trip if you or your travel buddy suddenly gets sick or hurt before you go on your trip. We also offer cover if you’re left empty-handed when the airline loses your baggage; or if a storm affects your connecting flight and puts the brakes on your travel plans (Explorer Plan only).
Why buy travel insurance when you’re going mountain biking?
Having travel insurance can help take some of the stress out if you end up in hospital with unexpected medical costs from a broken leg to some bangs and scrapes. Importantly travel insurance offers coverage for those ‘worst possible case’ scenarios when you need to be repatriated to Ireland to recover.
An upgrade for certain activities and sports may be required and terms and conditions apply for each activity. Check out our activities article for details or contact us if you have questions.
World Nomads plans offer cover for many mountain bike destinations:
- Les Gets, France where the lower Alps make for perfect mountain biking trails
- Spain’s southern Andalucía region for riding in the sun
- The downhill, cross-country and single tracks of Whistler Canada
- Desert riding around Colorado and New Mexico
What’s not covered?
Some things we may not cover for mountain bike riding include:
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Theft, loss and damage to bikes and their related accessories
- Participating in racing events
- Personal liability while bike riding
- Leaving baggage, personal items or any mountain biking gear unattended
- Any search or rescue operations to remove you from a life-threatening situation
- Misuse of alcohol or drugs to the extent that it risks your health or impairs your faculties
- Damage from any illegal activity.
For more information, go to our Help Desk mountain biking article.
This is a summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the plans described. Please refer to the Policy Wording for complete details of cover and exclusions. If you are unsure of your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for Mountain Biking
Whether you’re a hobby mountain biker or serious fiend, travel insurance for mountain biking can stand you in good stead when the mountain wins.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Embrace the thrill of the trails! Whether you're a weekend warrior, or a downhill daredevil, having travel insurance can keep you focused on the fun, not the what-ifs. From the rugged peaks of Scotland to the challenging trails of the Alps…there’s so many mountains waiting to be climbed on two wheels! But before you hit the paths less pedalled, check out our tips to ensure you're fully geared up with the right cover.
- Should I consider travel insurance when mountain bike riding?
- What’s actually covered when you go mountain biking
- What’s not covered when mountain biking?
- World Nomad’s handy tips for your mountain bike adventures
- Need some inspo for your next mountain biking adventure?
- Frequently asked questions
Should I consider travel insurance when mountain bike riding?
Accidents and Injuries: the rugged nature of mountain biking increases the risk of falls and injuries. Whether it's a minor scrape or a more serious injury requiring hospitalisation, travel insurance can cover medical expenses and emergency treatments.
Remote Locations: many of the best trails are off the beaten path. If you get injured in a remote area, emergency evacuation can be costly. Travel insurance can cover the expense of medically necessary evacuations, ensuring you receive the best possible care swiftly.
Damage or Loss of Gear: mountain biking gear is an investment. If your essential equipment is damaged or stolen during your trip, travel insurance can help cover these costs, allowing you to replace or repair your gear without significant financial burden. World Nomads provides baggage protection for lost, stolen, or damaged items of up to £3,000 with the Explorer Plan and £1,500 with the Standard Plan. For high-value gear, you may want to consider adding them as high value items. You can increase the level of cover of item up to £750 on the Explorer plan and £400 on the Standard. The maximum limit for all high value items is £2,250 on the Explorer and £1,200 on the Standard. An additional premium is required when adding high value items.
What’s actually covered when you go mountain biking?
As long as you’re not doing anything silly, like riding without a helmet or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, World Nomads offers cover for mountain biking (on and off road, cross country, or downhill). We offer two plans – Standard and Explorer – each of which offers different levels of coverage. It is up to you to choose what plan has the right level of coverage to meet your travel needs and that matches your specific mountain biking plans. Here are some of the things our plans over:
If you’re injured or have an accident whilst biking
It’s not nice to think about, but if you suffer an injury or accident on your ride, our emergency medical assistance coverage may protect you for emergencies that require:
- Hospitalisation
- Day surgery and out-patient treatment
- Visits to registered medical practitioners
- Prescribed medicines
- Ambulances
If you need medical treatment, it’s essential that you get in touch with our Emergency Medical Assistance team as soon as possible so they can support you.
If you need to be evacuated or repatriated
You might be riding in a remote area, far from medical assistance, so our policies include coverage if you need to be evacuated to a medical facility.
Emergency Medical Assistance Team available 24/7
Having a medical emergency in a foreign country can be overwhelming but buying a World Nomads policy means you’ll have access to our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team. Our Medical Emergency Assistance team can help with a range of services in whatever part of the world you’re travelling 365 days a year.
Cancellation of your ride
If your ride is cancelled or interrupted due to an unforeseen event, you may be able to recover your unused/additional travel expenses. With the Explorer plan this can include if your destination is affected by a natural catastrophe.
Note: There are specific terms and conditions, limits and exclusions that apply to mountain biking, so be sure to check the exclusions section of this article, and also check your policy wording carefully. If you’re not sure whether something is covered, contact us.
What’s not covered when mountain biking?
While we can offer coverage for mountain biking, there are also things we just won’t cover. These include, but are not limited to:
- No matter how safe you are, we won’t cover any mountain biking on the infamous Death Road – otherwise known as Yungas Road in Bolivia.
- Riding at altitudes over 6,000 metres
- 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.
- Working or participating professionally in any activity or sport.
- If you travel against medical advice or neglect to adhere to government ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure.
- Any pre-existing medical condition.
World Nomad’s handy tips for your mountain bike adventures
- Make sure your bike is set up correctly before you ride – check the saddle, pedals, handlebars, brakes, suspension, and tyre pressure.
- Put your safety first: only go riding with professional, qualified, licensed and reputable operators. If you don’t, your cover may be void. If something doesn’t feel right, then don’t go.
- Keep your body loose and springy and be prepared to stand up on the bike – doing this moves you with the bike and can help you avoid injury and accidents.
- Study the trail map and understand the route before you start. Use GPS or a reliable app to keep track of your location, especially in remote areas.
- Bring enough water and high-energy snacks to keep you hydrated and energised throughout your ride.
Need some inspo for your next mountain biking adventure?
Check out our handy guides and insider travel tips on the best places to go mountain biking:
- The best mountain biking tracks around Nepal
- A guide to mountain biking in New Zealand
- 4 of the best places for mountain biking in the US
This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy 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.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for mountain biking. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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Can I get travel insurance if I’ve already started travelling?
Yes! With World Nomads, you can purchase travel insurance after you’ve left UK. Keep in mind though, there is a 72-hour waiting period before cover is activated.
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Can I upgrade my travel insurance to include high-risk mountain bike riding
Here’s the deal: general off-road/cross-country mountain bike riding is covered under both our Standard and Explorer plan. However, if you intend to up the anti with some gnarly downhill trails, you’ll need to select add this activity from the beginning, and pay the additional premium, because you can’t upgrade once you’ve purchased.
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Does World Nomads travel insurance cover competitive mountain biking events?
No, World Nomads doesn’t cover competitive (or professional) mountain biking events.
