Travel insurance for volunteering
Get cover for your good deeds
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Clean Up Australia Day isn’t the only time us Aussies volunteer.
We have a long and proud history of helping out when we travel abroad, and World Nomads Travel Insurance is a strong supporter of paying it forward and giving back too.
Our travel insurance allows you to participate in a range of volunteer activities and vacations, from summer teaching programs to clean water projects. What better way to strengthen communities, forge meaningful connections and open eyes (and hearts) than by contributing to a worthy purpose?
What’s covered for volunteers?
Want to step out into the world and volunteer your time? If you need volunteer travel insurance because you want to volunteer overseas, or you’re planning a volunteer vacation, World Nomads travel insurance plans may include coverage for:
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Trip cancellation
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Trip interruption
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Medical emergency care
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Emergency evacuation
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Baggage delay
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Theft of baggage and personal belongings
What volunteer activities may I participate in?
While we don’t cover all kinds of volunteering (see the exclusions listed below) the kinds of volunteer work we might cover include:
We cover various kinds of volunteering such as
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Hospitality including serving the homeless dinner
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Retail work such as helping out in a co-op shop.
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General farm work which may include activities such as conservation and environmental work
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Teaching.
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Clerical work.
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Childcare.
If you purchase a higher level of travel insurance cover, you may have travel insurance coverage for volunteer work such as:
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Manual work or work with power tools or working under 5 metres in height.
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Volunteer instructor or guide of a covered sport or activity, if you have the appropriate qualification, certification or license to participate in this covered sport, activity or experience and it must not be one of our excluded activities.
Make sure you add the activity when you purchase your travel insurance so it’s included in your policy. If you can’t find the activity in our list, contact us for help.
Which volunteer activities are excluded
Some volunteer activities may not be covered as they’re just too risky for us to cover, for example, volunteer fire-fighting, panther minding or activities in places known to be unsafe or dangerous.
This includes volunteer work that includes:
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Work performed over 5 metres in height.
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Work performed offshore, underground or in caves.
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Operating machinery.
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Working with dangerous animals and / or big game.
What else isn’t covered?
As a global citizen contributing to good causes, we hope you’ll act responsibly and within your limits! But just to be clear, we won’t cover any incidents related to:
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Alcohol or drug abuse
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Reckless behavior
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Criminal or illegal acts
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Changing your mind
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Pre-existing medical conditions unless specified under your policy
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Third party compensation and legal expenses
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Your legal and personal liability following professional advice or other services performed by you as a volunteer.
This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered.
If haven’t yet chosen a volunteer program, you may find inspiration in our article about choosing ethical volunteer programs.
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- Get cover 24/7 online
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- Ongoing traveler support
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance
Waiting periods apply
It's not always fun.
Due to mishap, my frenulum on my penis got severely damaged. During intercourse with my girlfriend it nearly ripped and caused me a lot of pain and blood. I went to the doctor and he operated on it. Now everything is okay again.
Danish Resident.
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 deceased?
- Close relative dropped dead?
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 drugs?
- 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 teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about volunteering and travel insurance cover. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team.
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Will travel insurance cover me for countries other than those listed on my policy?
That depends on your policy and your country of residence. You may have to put in a request with the customer service team for a country to be added to your policy.
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Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed for accidents or unexpected illnesses overseas. They don't stand in place of primary medical insurance or your home health system.
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Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what’s happened. If it’s an emergency situation where medical evacuation is required, World Nomads may cover these costs upfront. You must contact World Nomads 24/7 Emergency Assistance if you have a medical emergency.
Volunteering Travel Insurance Plans
Canadian Residents Can Protect Their Volunteer Trips with Travel Insurance
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At a glance:
- World Nomads plans may provide coverage for your volunteering roles involving childcare, teaching, office work, or WWOOFING (general farm work, fruit picking, manual work), with the ability to pay an extra premium and be covered for additional activities involving manual work with power tools or volunteering as a scuba diving, ski, or snowboarding instructor
- Coverage for injuries and medical transport if you're seriously hurt while volunteering
- Reimbursement for cancelled tours, delays, or interruptions due to covered events
- Access to emergency assistance anytime, anywhere.
- Why should Canadians consider travel insurance for a volunteer trip abroad?
- Volunteering travel insurance: What may be covered?
- What may not be covered when volunteering?
- Top safety tips we recommend for volunteering
- FAQs
We love seeing our nomads give back and help make the world a better place. If you have travel insurance coverage for New Zealand, you may want to volunteer at an organic farm. You may also feel led to teach English in Cambodia or help with reforestation in Madagascar. But even when you set forth with the best intentions, you should be prepared for the unexpected. If you’ll be volunteering while travelling, you may want to protect your adventure with World Nomads Travel Insurance. Our travel insurance plans include a range of benefits that could help with everything from stolen bags to unexpected medical expenses.
Why should Canadians consider travel insurance for a volunteer trip abroad?
From animal bites in Australia to a horrible case of food poisoning in Europe, unexpected issues can derail even the most carefully planned volunteer trip. Travel insurance designed for volunteering may help you bounce back quickly with support for emergencies, delays, and disruptions. With coverage that is flexible to your needs, it’s a way to travel confidently – whether you're protecting endangered turtle hatching grounds or teaching children in a faraway village.
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.
Volunteering travel insurance: What may be covered?
We love giving back and having opportunities to change the world, so we’ve designed our plans to include travel insurance for volunteering. We also offer coverage for more than 250 other sports, activities and experiences.
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Emergency Medical Expenses
For broken bones, cuts, and sprains when building houses -
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Available 24/7 to assist in an emergency situation -
Baggage & Gear Coverage
Damaged or stolen gear when travelling to your overseas volunteer trip -
Trip Cancellations
Travel protection for your pre-paid nonrefundable trip costs and unexpected expenses.
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 volunteer 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 volunteer travel insurance with up to $5,000,000 CAD in emergency medical expenses and $2,500 for trip cancellation and trip interruption.
- Explorer Plan – This plan also covers volunteering, but has higher limits of coverage.
When you purchase your policy, you’ll need to list volunteering and all of the other activities that you plan to participate in while on your trip. Even if your main goal is to volunteer, you may want to do other fun things while you’re travelling like hiking, paddleboarding, or camping. That’s totally fine, because there’s over 250 other sports, activities and experiences that could be covered. 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 type of volunteering you’re doing, as well as the additional activities you list.
- Level 1 Activities: Volunteering in roles involving childcare, teaching, office work, or WWOOFING (general farm work, fruit picking, manual work)
- Level 2 Activities: Manual work that involves power tools and working at heights under 5 metres
- Level 3 Activities: Volunteering as a ski, snowboard, or scuba diving instructor
If you’re not sure if your volunteer duties will be covered, or 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 volunteer trips 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
What may not be covered when volunteering while traveling?
If you plan a volunteer trip to help others in another country, we commend you and think that’s awesome. However, if the Canadian government issues ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings for your destination, and you decide to go anyway, you won’t be covered by your travel insurance for volunteering. Some other things that are not covered include:
- Unattended baggage 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 travel to a particular destination or perform certain volunteer duties
- Not following government ‘Do Not Travel’ advisories issued by the Canadian government
- Operating machinery
- Working with dangerous animals or big game
- Working at heights over 5 metres
- Volunteering on offshore rigs, underground or caves
Top safety tips we recommend for volunteering
- Research the organization you’ll be volunteering with to make sure they’re reputable. You’ll want to confirm they have a clear mission, vision, and values. It’s also not a bad idea to look for reviews from others who have worked with them.
- Understand what your duties are before you go, and make sure you’re aware of any risks associated with those. You’ll also want to make sure all activities are covered by your travel insurance coverage for volunteering abroad.
- No matter what volunteer service you’re providing, make sure you receive proper training, as that reduces your chance of injuries or accidents.
- Take along a copy of the documents showing your travel insurance coverage for volunteering. You may even want to save a copy in your phone so it is easily accessible.
- Check with the Public Health Agency of Canada to see if they have issued any travel health notices for your destination.
- Register with Canadians Abroad to stay updated on emergency situations.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for volunteering. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team
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Is volunteering covered under World Nomads Travel Insurance?
Yes, depending on your specific volunteer duties, volunteering may be 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. Volunteering in roles involving childcare, teaching, office work, and WWOOFING (general farm work, fruit picking, manual work) are considered Level 1 activities and are automatically covered, but you’ll still need to list these as activities when you purchase your volunteering travel insurance policy. However, you’ll need to pay an additional premium to be covered for any Level 2 activities like manual work that involves power tools and working at heights under 5 metres, and Level 3 activities like volunteering as a ski, snowboard, or scuba diving instructor. 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 volunteering abroad?
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 get cut while planting coral in the Caribbean and you require medical assistance, emergency expense 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.
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What type of volunteer work is included in my volunteering travel insurance?
Volunteering in roles involving childcare, teaching, office work, and WWOOFING (general farm work, fruit picking, manual work) are considered Level 1 activities and are automatically covered, but you’ll still need to list these as activities when you purchase your volunteering travel insurance policy. However, you’ll need to pay an additional premium to be covered for any Level 2 activities like manual work that involves power tools and working at heights under 5 metres, and Level 3 activities like volunteering as a ski, snowboard, or scuba diving instructor. If you aren’t sure if something is covered, we suggest you contact us to ask.
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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.
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Does World Nomads offer travel insurance for volunteering abroad?
Yes, volunteering is an amazing experience and World Nomads doesn’t want to limit your ways to give back. For example, if you have travel insurance for Africa, you could have the opportunity to volunteer in places such as Kenya, Botswana, and Rwanda. If you have travel insurance for Argentina, you could volunteer to teach English as a second language to students there. When you get a quote for volunteering travel insurance, you’ll need to input where you’ll be travelling.
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What should I do if I get hurt while volunteering ?
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, rocking climbing, and camping 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 by both 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.
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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 of (up to the policy limits) essential items like toiletries and a change of clothes until you and your bag are reunited.
Need destination inspiration for your next volunteer trip?
Not sure where you can travel and volunteer? Check out some of our favorite ways to give back around the world and get destination-specific travel insurance tips to help you plan with confidence.
Argentina: Opportunities for Cultural Immersion
What’s It Like to be a Sea Turtle Conservation Volunteer?
Beyond Machu Picchu: Exploring Peru’s Other Ancient Sites
The Real Hawaii: Slow Travel on Moloka’i and Lanai
How to Volunteer Overseas Without Breaking the Bank
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)
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 teamVolunteering Travel Insurance Coverage
US residents can protect their good deeds while traveling
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At a glance:
- World Nomads plans may cover volunteering in roles involving childcare, teaching, environmental or conservation work, wildlife or animal care, and WWOOFing (general farm work, fruit picking, and manual work), with some plans that include additional volunteer roles and higher limits of coverage.
- Coverage may include reimbursement for injuries and medical transport if you're seriously hurt while on your volunteering trip.
- Gear and luggage benefits may help cover lost, stolen, or damaged baggage as you travel to your volunteer opportunity.
- Plus, optional Cancel for Any Reason upgrade available on some plans (additional cost and state restrictions may apply.)
- Why should I consider travel insurance for my volunteer trip?
- Volunteering travel insurance benefits
- Plans to protect your volunteer trip
- What's not covered
- Top safety tips we recommend for your volunteer trip
- FAQs
For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
We love seeing our nomads give back and help make the world a better place. If you have travel insurance coverage for Costa Rica, you may want to volunteer at a wildlife sanctuary while you’re there. You may also feel led to teach English in Cambodia or help with reforestation in Madagascar. But even when you set forth with the best intentions, you should be prepared for the unexpected. Our travel protection plans include a range of travel insurance benefits and non-insurance services for volunteering that may help with everything from stolen bags to unexpected medical expenses.
Why should I consider travel insurance for my volunteer trip?
From animal bites to food poisoning in a remote village, unexpected issues can derail even the most carefully planned volunteer trip. Travel insurance and non-insurance services designed for volunteering may help you bounce back quickly with support for emergencies, delays, and disruptions. With coverage that is flexible to your needs, it’s a way to travel confidently – whether you're volunteering on an organic farm in the Amazon or helping with environmental conservation projects in South Africa.
Travel insurance and non-insurance services for volunteering: What may be covered?
We love giving back and having opportunities to change the world, so we’ve designed coverage for losses resulting from volunteering while traveling. We also offer coverage for losses related to more than 250+ other sports, activities and experiences.
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Emergency Medical Expenses
For broken bones, cuts, and sprains when building houses -
Non-insurance Emergency Assistance
Available 24/7 to assist in an emergency situation -
Baggage & Gear Coverage
Damaged or stolen gear or luggage that is lost in transit -
Trip Delays, Interruptions & Cancellations
A money-saver if inclement weather keeps you from traveling for your volunteer work.
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 volunteer trip abroad?
World Nomads offers four plans for U.S. residents – Standard, Explorer, Epic and Annual – each with different levels of coverage. You’ll want to make sure you have the correct coverage based on your specific volunteer duties. Also, you may want to do other fun things while you’re traveling such as hiking, paddleboarding, or camping. That’s totally fine, because you may be covered for more than 250+ other sports, activities and experiences when you purchase travel insurance coverage for volunteering.
- Standard Plan – This is the most basic plan, but includes travel insurance coverage for incidents while volunteering in roles involving childcare, teaching, environmental or conservation work, wildlife or animal care, and WWOOFing (general farm work, fruit picking, and manual work.) This plan includes up to $125,000 in emergency medical expenses and up to $2,500 for trip cancellation.
- Explorer Plan – This plan covers more activities, including construction or renovation work (manual work involving painting, using power tools, operating machinery, roadwork, and working at height), volunteering in roles that involve high risk work (such as offshore, underground or caves, and commercial diving), disaster relief, NGO support, and volunteering as a ski instructor or in medical and health care services. It also has higher limits of coverage for most benefits.
- Epic Plan – This plan covers everything the Explorer Plan covers, plus even more activities – like serving as a pilot or crew of an aircraft. It also has the highest benefit limits of coverage.
- Annual Plan – Weekend warriors, digital nomads, world explorers… this plan is for you. Just buy once and stay protected all year. It includes travel insurance coverage for volunteering, as well as all of the other activities and experiences that are covered in the Standard Plan.
NOMADS TIP: For even more trip cancellation flexibility, check out the optional ‘Cancel for Any Reason’ benefit. It can be added to Explorer and Epic plans. Available at an additional cost for U.S. residents, except in New York.
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 quoteWhat may not be covered when volunteering while traveling?
We love that you’ve planned a volunteer trip to help others in another country, and commend you for your efforts. However, if the U.S. government issues ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings for your destination, and you decide to go anyway, the travel insurance coverage for volunteering that’s included in your travel protection plan may not cover you. Some other things that are not covered include:
- Unattended baggage, sporting equipment, 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 travel to a particular destination or do certain volunteer work
- Volunteering within 100 miles of your home
Top safety tips we recommend for your volunteer trip
- Research the organization you’ll be volunteering with to make sure they’re reputable. You’ll want to confirm they have a clear mission, vision, and values. It’s also not a bad idea to look for reviews from others who have worked with them.
- Understand what your duties are before you go, and make sure you’re aware of any risks associated with those. You’ll also want to make sure all activities are covered by your travel insurance coverage for volunteering abroad.
- No matter what volunteer service you’re providing, make sure you receive proper training, as that reduces your chance of injuries or accidents.
- Take along a copy of the documents showing your travel insurance coverage for volunteering. You may even want to save a copy in your phone so it is easily accessible.
- Check with the U.S. Department of State to see if they have issued any travel advisories for your destination.
- Enroll in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to stay updated on emergency situations.
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about cover for volunteering. 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 a volunteer trip abroad be covered under World Nomads Travel Insurance?
Yes, volunteering may be covered under all four plans offered by World Nomads Travel Insurance. The Standard and Annual Plans include travel insurance coverage for volunteering in roles that involve childcare, teaching, environmental or conservation work, wildlife or animal care, and WWOOFing (general farm work, fruit picking, and manual work.) The Explorer Plan covers more activities including construction or renovation work (manual work involving painting, using power tools, operating machinery, roadwork, and working at height), volunteering in roles that involve high risk work (such as offshore, underground or caves, and commercial diving), disaster relief, NGO support, and volunteering as a ski instructor or in medical and health care services. The Epic Plan covers everything the Explorer Plan covers, plus even more activities – like serving as a pilot or crew of an aircraft. It also has the highest benefit limits of coverage.
If you’re not sure if your volunteer duties can be covered, you can contact us and ask.
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What types of incidents may be covered while I’m volunteering overseas?
If your trip is canceled or interrupted due to an unforeseen event, you may be able to recover your travel expenses (up to the maximum benefit amount), and this may include unused, pre-paid, non-refundable tours that you paid for in advance. If you get cut while planting coral in the Caribbean and you require medical assistance, emergency expense medical coverage may come in handy in the case of an unexpected injury. You may also be covered for unplanned situations such as lost bags.
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What type of volunteer work is included in my trip protection plan?
World Nomads offers travel protection plans that include non-insurance services, as well as travel insurance coverage for volunteering. The Standard Plan includes travel insurance coverage for volunteering in roles involving childcare, teaching, environmental or conservation work, wildlife or animal care, and WWOOFing (general farm work, fruit picking, and manual work.) The Explorer Plan covers more activities including construction or renovation work (manual work involving painting, using power tools, operating machinery, roadwork, and working at height), volunteering in roles that involve high risk work (such as offshore, underground or caves, and commercial diving), disaster relief, NGO support, and volunteering as a ski instructor or in medical and health care services. The Epic Plan covers everything the Explorer Plan covers, plus even more activities – like serving as a pilot or crew of an aircraft. It also has the highest benefit limits of coverage. If you’re not sure if your volunteer duties are covered, you can contact us and ask.
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Can I purchase a plan after my trip starts?
Yes. If your trip has already started, World Nomads can still offer you coverage. You can buy a plan that includes travel insurance coverage for volunteering online anytime, from anywhere in the world. World Nomads Travel Insurance for U.S. residents takes effect at 12:01 a.m. local time the day after you purchase your plan. If you’re already traveling and want to get coverage for volunteering, you’ll need to buy your insurance at least the day before you need coverage.
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Does World Nomads Travel Insurance offer coverage for volunteering in other countries?
Yes, volunteering is an amazing experience and World Nomads doesn’t want to limit your ways to give back. For example, if you have travel insurance for Africa, you could have the opportunity to volunteer abroad in places such as Kenya, Botswana, and Rwanda. If you have travel insurance for Argentina, you could volunteer to teach English as a second language to students there. When you get a quote for a travel protection plan that includes travel insurance coverage for volunteering, you’ll need to input where you’ll be traveling.
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What should I do if I get hurt while I’m volunteering?
If you get hurt while you're volunteering, contact local authorities as soon as you’re able to do so for immediate attention. World Nomads Travel Insurance may help cover the cost of medical treatment, hospital stays, or even emergency medical evacuation if needed (subject to approval.) Access to a 24/7 Non-Insurance Emergency Assistance team is also included for support anytime, anywhere when you purchase a travel protection plan that includes travel insurance coverage for your volunteering trip.
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Does World Nomads cover other activities during my trip?
Yes, when you purchase travel insurance and non-insurance services for volunteering abroad, you could be covered for more than 250+ other sports, activities and experiences. Things like snowmobiling, snorkeling, yoga, and backpacking may all be covered. You can review the list of activities, but 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 by all plans offered by World Nomads, and you may be reimbursed for pre-paid, unused, non-refundable expenses like flights, tours and accommodations if your trip is cancelled for a covered reason. U.S. residents (except those that live in New York) also have the ability to add additional cancel for any reason coverage when certain World Nomads plans are purchased.
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What happens if my bags are delayed?
When you purchase travel insurance coverage for volunteering, baggage coverage is also included. If your checked-in bags are delayed more than 12 consecutive hours on the way to your destination, your plan may reimburse you for reasonable essential items like toiletries and a change of clothes until you and your bag are reunited. Your coverage also includes non-insurance service that can help track down your bag and get it delivered to you.
Need destination inspiration for your next volunteer trip?
Not sure where you can travel and volunteer? Check out some of our favorite ways to give back around the world and get destination-specific travel insurance tips to help you plan with confidence.
Argentina: Opportunities for Cultural Immersion
What’s It Like to be a Sea Turtle Conservation Volunteer?
Beyond Machu Picchu: Exploring Peru’s Other Ancient Sites
20250821-4760264. This is not a full list of what is and isn’t covered, so please check your plan document for a full list of maximums, terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that may apply to your state specific plan. Any example scenarios provided above are not a guarantee of coverage. All claims are subject to review, require documentation and are considered individually. Exclusion applies to Adventure or Extreme Activities.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)
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 volunteering
Don't let your good deeds go uncovered.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
At World Nomads, our travel insurance allows you to participate in a range of volunteer activities and vacations, from summer teaching programs to clean water projects. We’re strong supporters of paying it forward and giving back — and what better way to strengthen communities, forge meaningful connections and open your eyes (and arms and hearts) than contributing to a worthy purpose?
- Should I consider insurance when volunteering overseas?
- What's covered for volunteers?
- A choice of policy and extras for your next holiday
- What volunteer activities may I participate in?
- What’s not covered?
Should I consider insurance when volunteering overseas?
If you’re planning to volunteer your time while traveling, World Nomads Travel Insurance may help when stepping on the plane to start your adventure. Travel insurance can cover you for issues you may encounter while on the road, such as medical issues, baggage theft or delay, and travel interruption.
What's covered for volunteers?
Want to step out into the world and volunteer your time?
World Nomads plans may cover:
- Trip cancellation
- Trip interruption
- Medical emergency care
- Emergency evacuation
- Baggage delay
- Theft of baggage and personal belongings
A choice of policy and extras for your next holiday
Always make sure that you’ve selected the right travel insurance plan for your specific needs. World Nomads has two levels of cover - the Standard Plan and Explorer Plan - that offer different benefits, limits and sub-limits of coverage. It’s always good to spend time comparing the plans to see which one suits your travel needs.
You can get a quote, make a claim, or buy a policy instantly online, even while traveling.
What volunteer activities may I participate in?
The types of activities that are covered depend on your Country of Residence. Check your plan and policy wording to get more details. Examples of volunteering that could be covered include environmental and conservation work or teaching in literacy programs.
What’s not covered?
As a traveler who wants to do good while overseas, we can only assume doing good things is in your nature. But momentary lapses in judgement do happen so just to be clear, we won’t cover any incidents related to:
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Reckless behavior
- Criminal or illegal acts
- Changing your mind
- Pre-existing conditions unless specified by your policy
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered.
If haven’t yet chosen a volunteer program, you can find inspiration in our article about choosing ethical volunteer programs.
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance. Featuring coverage for more than 150 activities, you can get a quote, claim, or extend your policy online at www.worldnomads.com. All the information we provide about travel insurance is a brief 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?
- 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 volunteering. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
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Will travel insurance cover me for countries other than those listed on my policy?
That depends on your policy and your country of residence. You may have to put in a request with the customer service team for a country to be added to your policy.
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Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed for accidents or unexpected illnesses overseas. They don't stand in place of primary medical insurance or your home health system.
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Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what happened. If it’s an emergency situation, where medical evacuation is required, we can coordinate payments directly with the hospital wherever possible, provided cover under the policy has been confirmed by us and you get pre-approval from the Emergency Assistance team. You must contact 24/7 Emergency Assistance if you have a medical emergency.
