Photo © VichoT/IStock

Travel 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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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:

  • Overseas emergency medical treatment
  • Overseas emergency medical transport and repatriation back to Ireland
  • Emergency dental treatment and prescribed physiotherapy treatment overseas
  • Reimbursement of lost, stolen or damaged baggage or personal items (including your passport) up to the benefit limits. Remember to keep copies of your original receipts if you need to make a claim
  • Your checked-in baggage being delayed for more than 24 hours and the replacement costs for essential clothing and toiletries while waiting for your baggage (keep receipts)
  • Costs of cancelling your trip or if you have to return home early due to sudden injury or illness to you, your close relative or travel companion.

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)
*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 © VichoT/IStock

Travel 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?

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:

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)
*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

FAQ

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.

  • 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.
Photo © VichoT/IStock

Travel insurance for your next mountain biking trip

Don’t let the trails catch you off guard – grab some coverage info (and mountain biking safety tips) before putting the pedal to the dirt.

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

For Canadians seeking adventure, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of mountain biking in breathtaking international landscapes. Imagine pedalling through the rugged terrains of the Alps, the sweeping trails of New Zealand, or the mystical forests of Japan…

Whether you're a weekend warrior or a downhill daredevil, having travel insurance can keep you focused on the fun, not the what-ifs. Before you hit the paths less pedalled, it might be wise to ensure you're geared up with the right cover.

Explore the world on two wheels with our mountain biking travel insurance

As avid mountain bikers ourselves, we understand the thrill of navigating new trails and conquering challenging terrains. That's why we've crafted our travel insurance plans to cater to a range of biking activities (as well as 250+ more sports and activities). Whether you’re cruising through serene forests or tackling rugged mountain descents, our coverage ensures you're protected.

Our plans are designed to cover a variety of mountain biking adventures, including:   

  • Downhill biking in Whistler, Canada
  • Cross-country adventures in Australia’s Outback
  • Riding through the scenic paths of the French Pyrenees
  • Tackling challenging routes in South Africa

As long as you’re not doing anything reckless, like riding without a helmet or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, World Nomads mountain biking travel insurance offers coverage for:

  • mountain biking (on or off road / downhill / cross country) up to 3,000 metres in elevation) – a Level 1 activity.
  • mountain biking (on or off road / downhill / cross country) up to 6,000 metres in elevation – a Level 3 activity
  • BMX – on road – a Level 1 activity.
  • BMX – Off road / on track / cross country is a Level 3 activity

Note: there are specific terms and conditions, limits and exclusions that apply to mountain biking (e.g. we don’t cover elevations over 6,000 metres). Be sure to check the policy wording carefully to select the right plan and coverage options for your mountain biking trip. If you’re not sure whether something is covered, contact us.

What does mountain biking travel insurance cover?

Whether you’re a casual rider exploring scenic paths or a dedicated adrenaline junkie conquering steep descents, mountain biking abroad offers unparalleled excitement…but let’s be real for a moment: mountain biking can be fast, gnarly, and downright dangerous at times – which is why you might want to consider packing a World Nomads insurance policy in your camel pack.

Mountain biking travel insurance from World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) for:

  • Emergency medical: 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 emergency medical expenses.
  • Ambulance transportation and emergency evacuation: many of the best trails are off the beaten path. If you get injured in a remote area, ambulance transportation can be costly. World Nomads could cover the expense of medically necessary emergency medical evacuations (subject to approval from our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team) if your attending physician and our medical team determine you need to return to your home province in Canada. If your injuries are worse than first thought, you could be repatriated back to your home province.
  • Baggage protection: your mountain biking gear is valuable. If it’s lost or damaged by your airline or stolen during your trip, travel insurance can help cover the costs. World Nomads offers baggage protection with up to $3,000 coverage under the Explorer Plan and $1,000 with the Standard Plan for lost, stolen, or delayed items.
  • Trip cancellation, trip interruption and trip delay: if you need to cancel or interrupt your ride due to an unforeseen event, you may be able to recover your unused/additional travel expenses. This includes if your mountain biking trip is affected by a Government issued travel advisory against travel to your trip destination. , 

Note: To be eligible for maximum emergency medical benefits, you must be covered under your GHIP for the entire duration of your policy. Without GHIP coverage during your trip, emergency medical benefits will be capped at $40,000 CAD.

Need a quote? You can apply online here.

What’s not covered by mountain biking travel insurance?

We love adventure, but some things just aren’t covered under our policies. These include:

  • Participation in any race or professional sporting event
  • Mountain biking over 6,000 metres in elevation
  • Coverage for your bicycle unless checked in as baggage with your transportation carrier (we don’t cover damage to your bicycle while you are using it)
  • Any medical transportation or associated expenses that are not pre-authorized or approved by the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team 
  • A loss arising from your wilfully exposing yourself to a needless risk or not taking reasonable care, including cycling under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Damage as a result of illegal activities
  • Personal liability while bike riding
  • Leaving baggage, personal items or any mountain biking gear unattended
  • 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.

Mountain Biking Safety Tips

Keep these tips in mind before hitting the trails on your mountain biking trip, for both an epic and safe ride:

  • Gear up right: make sure your bike and gear are in top shape before embarking on your expedition. Check tyres, brakes, suspension, and saddle. Oh, and don’t forget your helmet, gloves, and protective gear – safety first!
  • Know your trail: familiarise yourself with the trail’s difficulty level and conditions – understanding what lies ahead can help you prepare better and avoid unexpected surprises. Maps and GPS apps are your friends!
  • Build your biking stamina: mountain biking isn’t just a ride in the park (pun intended). Boost your endurance with regular strength and stamina training to conquer those long, challenging trails.
  • Keep your documents handy: Accidents happen, and when they do, having your paperwork sorted is a game-changer. Snap digital copies or keep printed receipts for your bike, gear, and insurance details handy. This little bit of prep will save you a heap of trouble if you need to file a claim.

Ready to ride?

Visit our website to compare our Standard and Explorer plans, or to grab a quote. If you have any questions, our team is always here to help. Enjoy the ride and pedal safely!

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
    • 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)
    *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