Essential travel insurance tips
Trusted by:
The Caribbean islands aren’t always paradise. That’s why there’s travel insurance. Here are a few situations that you could encounter and tips on how you can get the most out of your coverage.
Hurricanes and tropical storms are among the biggest threats of your trip turning upside down. If your flight has been cancelled or your hotel is unable to accept visitors, you may qualify for trip cancellation or interruption benefits. Timing is key here: You need to have bought your plan before the storm was announced. You also won’t be eligible for coverage if you cancel because of a few knocked-down trees or the forecast is cloudy and gray.
Street crime and petty theft, such as pickpocketing and mugging, are unfortunate realities in the Caribbean. Should that happen to you, get to safety first and go to the local authorities to report the incident (don’t forget to get a copy of the report). World Nomads, 24/7 Emergency Assistance team can give you hand with whatever you need in a crisis, such as helping to locate health care facilities or consular services and contacting family members.
If your personal belongings get swiped under your supervision, besides reporting the incident, you’ll also need the original receipts for the items. Your policy may have per-item and maximum limits and exclude coverage of high-value items or cash.
The Caribbean feels like a non-stop adventure, from snorkeling in crystal-clear water and trekking amid cloud forests to swimming under cascading waterfalls.
Whatever the activity, it’s important to choose the right level of coverage. Read the policy wording, browse the World Nomads’ Help Center, or contact our customer service team to see if what you’re planning to do is covered under your plan. You may have to pay an additional premium for an adventure sports upgrade or purchase the Explorer plan instead of a Standard.
Certain adventures may also have special conditions and exclusions which, if you don’t comply, could affect your coverage. These could be getting certification for your activity or booking the excursion with a qualified, licensed operator. It could also be as simple as abiding by safety practices, whether or not or they’re a part of the local law.
It’s never a good idea to guzzle multiple frozen daiquiris before scuba diving, or going hiking solo when you’re just a beginner and have a poor sense of direction. Your coverage is contingent upon your responsible behavior. So, best to refrain from anything that would be likely to get you in trouble. Also, be sure to check your policy for exclusions, such as unguided dives or search-and-rescue missions.
Surfing accidents, sunburn and dehydration, food poisoning, or – heaven forbid – an act of violence. Major and minor occurrences can happen in the Caribbean, and believe us, they do…no matter how careful or prepared you think you are.
The first thing to remember is to contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team, who will need to approve your surgical procedures, medical treatment, or evacuation before you go forward with them. Otherwise your coverage may be reduced or invalidated.
Remember: Any emergencies due to pre-existing conditions aren’t included unless specified in your policy; and your plan only covers emergencies, not routine or preventative care, such as eyeglass prescriptions and annual physicals.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
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 independent travelers and intrepid families. Nobody wants to think about all the things that could go wrong on their trip, but these things can and do happen. So be prepared and get your travel insurance today.
Essential travel insurance tips
Trusted by:
The Caribbean islands aren’t always paradise. That’s why there’s travel insurance. Here are a few situations that you could encounter, and tips on how you can get the most out of your coverage.
Hurricanes and tropical storms are among the biggest threats of your trip turning upside down. If your flight has been cancelled or your hotel is uninhabitable, you may qualify for trip cancellation or interruption benefits. Timing is key here: You need to have bought your plan before the storm was announced. You also won’t be eligible for coverage if you cancel because of a few knocked-down trees or the forecast is cloudy and gray.
Street crime and petty theft, such as pickpocketing and mugging, are unfortunate realities in the Caribbean. Should that happen to you, get to safety first and go to the local authorities to report the incident (don’t forget to get a copy of the report). World Nomads' 24/7 Emergency Assistance team can give you hand with whatever you need in a crisis, such as helping to locate health care facilities or consular services and contacting family members.
If your personal belongings get swiped under your supervision, besides an official loss report, you’ll also need the original receipts for the items. Your policy may have per-item and maximum limits and exclude coverage of high-value items or cash.
The Caribbean feels like a non-stop adventure, from snorkeling in crystal-clear water and trekking amid cloud forests to swimming under cascading waterfalls.
Whatever the activity, it’s important to choose the right level of coverage. Read the policy wording, browse the World Nomads’ Help Center, or contact our customer service team to see if what you’re planning to do is covered under your plan. You may have to pay an additional premium for an adventure sports upgrade or purchase the Explorer plan instead of a Standard.
Certain adventures may also have special conditions and exclusions which, if you don’t comply, could affect your coverage. These could be getting certification for your activity or booking the excursion with a qualified, licensed operator. It could also be as simple as abiding by safety practices, whether or not or they’re a part of the local law.
It’s never a good idea to guzzle multiple frozen daiquiris before swimming, or going scuba diving at depths greater than what you can handle. So practice caution and be sure to check your policy for conditions (our plans cover scuba diving up to 165 feet), and exclusions such as extreme sports or pre-existing conditions.
Surfing accidents, sunburn and dehydration, food poisoning, or – heaven forbid – an act of violence. Major and minor occurrences can happen in the Caribbean, and believe us, they do…no matter how careful or prepared you think you are.
In a life-threatening emergency, call the local emergency number first. Then contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team, who will need to approve your surgical procedures, medical treatment, or evacuation.
Remember: any emergencies due to pre-existing conditions aren’t included unless specified in your policy; and your plan only covers emergencies, not routine or preventative care, such as eyeglass prescriptions and annual physicals.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
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 independent travelers and intrepid families. Nobody wants to think about all the things that could go wrong on their trip, but these things can and do happen. So be prepared and get your travel insurance today.
Essential travel insurance tips
Trusted by:
Sun, sandy beaches and azure blue waters to enjoy – the Caribbean is an island paradise just waiting to be experienced! Whether you’re going on an island cruise, visiting one of 22 UNESCO heritage sites or hitting up local markets for a bite of famous jerk chicken, consider our tips on traveling in the Caribbean to get the most out of your trip.
With World Nomads, you can buy travel insurance when you book your trip from home or while you're already traveling around the many islands of the Caribbean. All our plans offer cover (up to the benefit limits) for:
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 so it’s best to compare them to see which one suits your travel needs.
You can get a quote, make a claim, or extend your policy instantly online, even while traveling.
Hurricanes and tropical storms are among the biggest threats of your trip turning upside down. If your flight or cruise has been cancelled, or your hotel is unable to accept visitors, you may qualify for trip cancellation or interruption benefits, depending your Country of Residence.
Traveler tip: timing is key: You need to have bought your travel insurance plan before the storm was announced on TV or through major news sites and government sites. You also won’t be eligible for coverage if you cancel because of a few knocked-down trees, or the forecast is cloudy and gray.
Stay up to date with the latest travel alerts and warnings for the Caribbean here.
Street crime and petty theft, such as pickpocketing and mugging, are unfortunate realities in the Caribbean. Should that happen to you, get to safety first and go to the local authorities to report the incident (don’t forget to get a copy of the report, which you’ll need if you make a claim).
Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team can provide 24/7 365 days assistance when you are in a medical crisis, such as helping to locate health care facilities, providing a medical transfer to a hospital or repatriation to your home country where necessary, and getting in touch with family members in case of an emergency.
If your personal belongings get swiped, you may be able to make a claim for replacement or reimbursement of your stolen items, up to a per item and total maximum limit. Terms and conditions apply, so be sure to check your policy wording.
Traveler tip: if you forgot to buy travel insurance before you left home, you can purchase while you’re travelling (a waiting period may apply for some benefits).
The Caribbean feels like a non-stop adventure, from snorkelling in crystal-clear water and trekking amid cloud forests, to swimming under cascading waterfalls. The great news is that our travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities, experiences and sports including:
Depending on your travel plans and Country of Residence, you may need to upgrade your policy to be covered for the activities you will be doing. If you’re unsure whether the activity you want to do is covered, just contact us.
Keep in mind that certain adventures may also have special conditions and exclusions which, if you don’t comply, could affect your coverage. These could be getting certification for your activity, or booking the excursion with a qualified, licensed operator and abiding by safety practices, whether or not or they’re a part of the local law.
Surfing accidents, sunburn and dehydration, food poisoning, or in the worst case scenario an act of violence. Major and minor occurrences can happen in the Caribbean, which is why our plans cover emergency medical expenses if you fall ill, get into an accident or get hurt on your trip. If you experience a medical emergency whilst on holiday in the Caribbean, be sure to contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team, who will need to approve your surgical procedures, medical treatment, or evacuation, otherwise your coverage may be reduced or impacted.
Traveler tip: be sure to get reports, documentation and receipts if you need medical care, as you will need these to support your claim.
Depending on your Country of Residence you may not need a Visa to travel in the Caribbean. Keep in mind that the Caribbean is made up of 13 countries, each of which have their own rules and regulations. Be sure to check the requirements before you arrive.
Keep your passport safe by locking it in a hotel or hostel safe and avoid carrying it around. It’s also wise to leave a copy with someone you trust back home, as well as a digitally secure copy of your passports and Visas.
If your passport is stolen, our policies may help cover some of the extra costs while you arrange an emergency replacement passport. Be sure to check the policy wording for coverage conditions.
Note: all travel insurance plans are different, and cover will vary, depending on what's happened, your Country of Residence, the plan you choose and any optional extras or upgrades you add.
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything – so make sure you know what you’re covered for. Some of the events we don’t cover include:
Check out some of our other articles and information to help you plan your ideal Caribbean adventure including:
Travel insurance doesn't cover everything. All of the information we provide is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions outlined in the policy wording. Coverage may not be the same or available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. If you’re not sure if something is covered, get in touch.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
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 independent travelers and intrepid families. Nobody wants to think about all the things that could go wrong on their trip, but these things can and do happen. So be prepared and get your travel insurance today.
Learn more about World Nomads travel insurance for your travel across the Old Continent.
Trusted by:
Portugal boasts endless opportunities to explore culture, bustling cities, beaches, wine regions, history, and culinary experiences. As you plan an itinerary that includes Portugal’s breathtaking architecture in cities like Lisbon, the wine scene of Porto, the scenic Azores Islands, and the coastal sophistication of Algarve, considering adding travel insurance to your list may be a good idea to protect your trip investment and your possessions.
Your World Nomads travel insurance policy may include cover (up to the policy benefit limits) for:
It’s always a worry when you fly internationally that your bags might not arrive when you do. The same is true if your baggage, sporting gear or personal items are stolen while you’re on vacation. If while in the Algarve, your golf clubs are stolen during a leisurely lunch, your policy may cover this loss.
World Nomads may cover (up to the policy limits) the loss, theft or damage to your baggage or personal belongings depending on your specific situation. Here are more details:
Your policy may also protect your personal belongings while on vacation. While traveling, to reduce the risk of theft, keep your valuables close. It’s a good idea to store travel documents, cash and credit cards in a money belt or cross-body bag at all times. Although Portugal is a safe European country, petty theft is more likely to occur in busy tourist spots in Lisbon and Porto. Don’t put valuables in your back pockets. Also, when traveling, keep receipts for all purchases.
When traveling to Portugal, you may want to consider having travel insurance that can cover overseas emerency medical expenses, as your domestic health insurance is unlikely to be accepted abroad. If you become ill or injured while traveling in Portugal, without the right cover you need for emergency medical expenses, you’ll be responsible for paying any out-of-pocket costs for medical care, dental care, or in the worst-case, transport back to your home country. You could twist your ankle on a cobblestone street during a walking tour or suffer a concussion while riding a bike in Southern Portugal, so having a policy with cover for overseas emergency medical expenses could be helpful for unexpected events that can happen.
Depending on your Country of Residence and the travel insurance plan you choose, you may have access to Coronavirus (COVID-19) coverage for certain events. To find out what cover applies to you, select your Country of Residence and read our What’s Covered for Coronavirus article which has all of the details, including benefit limits, terms, conditions and exclusions.
Handling a medical emergency is unsettling, but with a World Nomads travel insurance policy, you’re not alone. Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team may help you to identify appropriate medical care, act as a liaison with medical providers, and assist with arrangements including upfront payment of medical care if deemed necessary.
Portugal is a melting pot of cultures, and you may not understand the local language. Just call our 24/7 assistance team so we can help with translation services in an emergency.
If you plan to surf on Portugal’s west coast in Nazare, or go zip-lining in Ribeira da Salga, World Nomads offers travel insurance coverage for 150+ activities and sports. Be sure to read your policy carefully to ensure your chosen activities are listed and covered. Reach out to us if you need help with policy choices; we’re happy to assist.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
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 independent travelers and intrepid families. Nobody wants to think about all the things that could go wrong on their trip, but these things can and do happen. So be prepared and get your travel insurance today.
Learn more about World Nomads travel insurance for your trip across South America.
Trusted by:
Stunning South America is where you can find some of the world’s oldest treasures, including the remnants of the ancient Incan empire in Peru, and the Aztec and Mayan empires from Mexico.
You might be taking a road trip from north to south from Laredo, Mexico to Buenos Aires, Argentina, a cool 7,244 mi (11.658 km), exploring the whole continent slowly, or enjoying a short break a short break in Argentina, Peru or Brazil. Wherever you visit, you’ll be with lasting memories of beautiful beaches, ancient cultures and vast landscapes.
While traveling through South America, it’s a smart move to consider travel insurance as the safety net that helps when things don’t go to plan, with a 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team available and travel insurance benefits.
Travel Insurance can offer cover for:
When traveling through South America, World Nomads offers two travel insurance plans, the Standard Plan and the Explorer Plan.
Both plans offer cover for things such as lost baggage and emergency medical evacuation, however, the Explorer Plan offers higher benefit limits and cover for a wider range of activities. If you know you’re planning to tackle some adventure sports, check our list of activities to decide which travel insurance policy best suits your needs.
South America is great for travelers seeking adventure, but if you’re planning to go white-water rafting on the Mendoza River or glacier walking on the Perito Moreno Glacier, and an accident happens, travel insurance could help with reimbursement of medical expenses or the cost of evacuation should a physician advise it’s necessary.
Whenever you leave home to travel overseas there are risks – it’s important to remember travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything so you should take the time to understand what your policy covers you for.
The obelisk on Ave 9 de Julio in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Photo credit: Getty Images / Andrew Peacock
Getting away from the ‘gringo trail’ (the tourist hotspots) and discovering a more authentic South America will make for holiday memories that stay with you long after you return State-side. Whether you visit Chile’s Marble Caves, explore Lamas Castle in Peru, or take in the stunning Hill of Seven Colors in Purmamarca, (locally called the Hill of Seven Skirts), South America has an array of experiences for the adventurous traveler.
However getting away from the bright lights can also be risky as armed robbery is a possibility in some South American countries. Always stick to well-lit areas at night and avoid traveling alone. But if the unthinkable happens, your life and your safety is paramount so don’t try to save your wallet if it means risking your life. Your things can be replaced, but you can’t.
To find out what cover applies to you, read our What’s Covered for Coronavirus article which has some of the details, including benefit limits, conditions and exclusions.
Travel insurance tip
If something is stolen, make sure you report it as soon as possible after you’ve discovered the theft and as you buy items keep receipts of your purchases as proof of purchase in case you need to make a claim in the future.
Understanding what’s not covered is just as important as knowing what your insurance does cover you for. Things that won’t be covered by travel insurance include:
If you’ve any questions, or are unsure if something is covered, please contact us for more information.
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.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
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 independent travelers and intrepid families. Nobody wants to think about all the things that could go wrong on their trip, but these things can and do happen. So be prepared and get your travel insurance today.
The best of the worst. Real stories from our nomads around the world.
Trusted by:
I fell on my side and heard the sound of dry stick breaking, I realized my leg was broken, then I just lay on the beach... The first phone call I got was from World Nomads and they basically told me, you don't worry about this Anton, just focus on getting better...and we'll take care of the rest.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
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 independent travelers and intrepid families. Nobody wants to think about all the things that could go wrong on their trip, but these things can and do happen. So be prepared and get your travel insurance today.