Travel insurance for the Caribbean
Essential travel insurance tips
- As featured in:
As featured in:
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.
Severe Weather
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
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.
Adventure
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.
Medical Emergencies
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.
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 stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for the Caribbean
From the rainforests to the sea, learn how travel insurance can help Americans traveling to the Caribbean.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
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.
- Do I need travel insurance for the Caribbean?
- Travel insurance for activities in the Caribbean
- Travel insurance for medical emergencies in the Caribbean
- Travel insurance for lost and stolen bags in the Caribbean
- Travel insurance for canceled, interrupted, or delayed trips to the Caribbean
- Tips for traveling to the Caribbean from the United States
Considered to be the picture of paradise, the Caribbean consists of over 7,000 islands, cays, and reefs that have been organized into 30 different territories. The region is famed for its white sandy beaches, blue waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Just a short flight away from many spots in the US, the Caribbean is understandably a popular vacation destination among Americans.
The Caribbean has an adventure for any type of traveler, from thrill seekers to families to honeymooners. You can dive into the region’s cultural heritage at the best museums in the Caribbean, move your hips while learning salsa in Havana, visit a rum distillery in Jamaica, be serenaded by soulful Caribbean music, savor spicy seafood dishes, and attend colorful cultural festivals like Junkanoo in the Bahamas. Outdoor lovers can climb La Soufrière, St. Vincent’s active volcano, mountain bike in Trinidad and Tobago, and scuba dive in Cuba.
While a trip to the Caribbean is a fun adventure, there are some things to be aware of when you’re visiting from the US. We’ve learned quite a bit from our travels, and we encourage you to explore travel insurance* plans for the Caribbean.
Do I need travel insurance for the Caribbean?
International travel can bring all kinds of unexpected surprises - like finding a waterfall in the Piton Mountains in St. Lucia.
Some surprises are not as great though. Nobody wants to think about things like canceled trips, delayed baggage, and medical emergencies, but these things can happen unexpectedly. If you fall and twist your ankle while climbing Blue Mountain Peak in Jamaica, you may then wish that you had travel insurance for the Caribbean.
World Nomads has four plans to choose from, and when you get a quote you can compare the options to determine the best international travel insurance for your needs.
Travel insurance for activities in the Caribbean
In a region defined by the surrounding sea, you’ll likely do a few water sports during your vacation in the Caribbean. Perhaps you want to go sailing around the Bahamas, scuba diving in Antigua, or sea kayaking along the Waitukubuli Sea Trail in Dominica. The region also offers plenty of land adventures across rainforests, volcanoes, and waterfalls. World Nomads covers more than 250 activities for Americans traveling to the Caribbean and includes things like hiking Mount Liamuiga on St. Kitts and horseback riding through Vinales National Park in Cuba.
Before you get a quote for your travel insurance for the Caribbean, it’s helpful to have a general itinerary in mind. Different plans cover different activities. A list of activities will help you choose the best insurance for your trip—and make sure even your most daring adventure is covered.
For example, if you want to go kitesurfing in Turks & Caicos or climb one of the pitons on St. Lucia, you’ll be covered under all plans, including the Standard Plan. However, if you’re planning to ditch the scuba gear and go free diving in Bonaire, you’ll need to invest in an Explorer or an Epic Plan.
Travel insurance for medical emergencies in the Caribbean
Accidents can happen to anyone. Maybe you have a surfing accident while catching waves in Puerto Rico or something goes wrong while you are scuba diving. Most Americans diving in the Caribbean have no problems at all, but sometimes things happen. If you get decompression sickness, emergency medical coverage under your travel insurance for the Caribbean could reimburse you for your medical expenses.
In case you have a medical emergency when traveling to the Caribbean, you can call the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team and they can help refer you to a place that offers the level of care that you need. Not all islands are English-speaking so the team they can also help communicate with your local medical team if there are language barriers.
If your attending physician (and the 24/7 emergency assistance team) determines that it’s best for you to go home to the US to get medical care, the repatriation coverage that is included in your travel insurance for the Caribbean may cover the costs to get you there.
The Caribbean sun is strong, so pack sunscreen and don’t be shy about reapplying it. Since you’ll likely be spending a lot of time in the water, look into reef-safe sunscreens. Food and water sanitation are quite good on many islands—and the tap water is drinkable in many places too. However, as the region is quite vast, we encourage you to do some research on your specific destination ahead of time.
To streamline your experience seeking medical treatment in the Caribbean, we recommend signing up for FootprintID before your trip. This non-insurance service is a portable personal health record where your documents, prescriptions, test results, and emergency contacts are accessible in one place anywhere in the world. Whether you need to refill a prescription or deal with a more serious injury, FootprintID expedites the process.
Travel insurance for lost and stolen bags in the Caribbean
What happens if you land in Nassau, but your bag doesn’t arrive at the same time? You probably packed your favorite swimsuit and maybe your snorkeling gear as well. Your travel insurance for the Caribbean may reimburse you for a change of clothes and toiletries until your bag makes its way to you.
If you’re lucky, your bags just took a detour and will eventually make their way to you. Even a delayed bag can be stressful though. If your bag is delayed for 12 hours or more, you may still be reimbursed for a change of clothes and toiletries until you and your bag are reunited.
The first step is to contact the airline. If the airline isn’t able to help you locate your lost bag, the second step is to contact Blue Ribbon Bags, a non-insurance service that will track and expedite the return of your undelivered baggage by the airline. Make sure to have the file reference or record locator number and Property Irregularity Report on hand when you call Blue Ribbon Bags so you can file a lost luggage claim.
Safety varies across the region. Many of the islands are incredibly safe and you’ll likely encounter no issues. Other spots experience theft or other crimes, and you’ll want to be aware of your belongings, such as in cities and touristy areas like Montego Bay and Kingston, Jamaica.
If anything does happen, make sure you make a police report. You’ll need it to make a claim.
Travel insurance for canceled, interrupted, or delayed trips to the Caribbean
Even if you’ve booked all your hotels and excursions, it’s smart to plan for the unpredictable. Things happen that can cancel, interrupt, or delay your trip so it’s important to find an insurance plan that covers trip cancelation and delays.
Natural disasters are a real possibility in the Caribbean, which is located in the Atlantic Hurricane Belt and at risk for hurricanes from June to December. Many Caribbean countries are also on active fault lines, meaning earthquakes are also a possibility. If an unforeseen hurricane sweeps through Antigua before your trip making it impossible to reach your destination, your travel insurance for the Caribbean could help you be reimbursed for non-refundable tours and hotel accommodations that you paid for in advance. World Nomads insurance plans may also help you out if a storm makes your accommodation uninhabitable. It’s important to note though that travel insurance is for unexpected events; to be covered, you must have purchased your plan before the storm was known about or named.
If you’re already on your trip and something happens, travel insurance can also help you out. For example, you may need to go back to the United States early if an immediate family member back home has an unexpected medical emergency. You may be eligible for reimbursement of expenses if your trip is interrupted.
The Explorer and Epic Plans cover several travel inconveniences that may arise during your Caribbean vacation if you purchased during the time sensitive period. You might be on a cruise around the Caribbean Islands and your port call at the Cayman Islands gets canceled due to a storm. World Nomads travel insurance may compensate you for this inconvenience.
Tips for traveling to the Caribbean from the United States
The Caribbean Islands are known for their laid-back, friendly vibes and are well-accustomed to travelers. Like any international destination, though, there are things to look out for.
Before you leave head off on your adventure, we encourage you to check out the US government’s travel warnings for each country you plan to visit. Weather, safety, and political situations can change at any time, and this is where they list any current advisories.
The Caribbean is famed for its natural beauty and it’s important to do our part as travelers to help preserve its sea, national parks, and abundant environment. Explore environmentally friendly excursions, like these eco-adventures on Dominica. You may also want to check out our tips on how to travel responsibly in the Caribbean and some tips for eco-conscious travelers.
A long history of trade and movement of people, food, and goods through these islands has created a vibrant, multicultural region. French, English, Spanish, and Creole are among the languages spoken across the islands. Read up on some of the region’s dynamic history before you head off—and don’t forget to kick back and enjoy!
*All information we provided here is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the plans described. Please carefully read your state specific plan documents for a full description of coverage. Travel insurance is included as part of your travel protection plan which contains both insurance benefits and non-insurance assistance services. Material included on this page does not represent, nor is it specific to, United States Fire Insurance Company or travel insurance benefits provided on United States Fire Insurance Company’s travel protection plans.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 stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel insurance for the Caribbean
Essential travel insurance tips
- As featured in:
As featured in:
- What's covered when traveling in the Caribbean
- Five top things to be aware of when traveling in the Caribbean
- What's not covered?
- Looking for more travel inspiration for the Caribbean?
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.
What’s covered when traveling in the Caribbean
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:
- Overseas emergency medical
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- Trip cancellation
- Stolen or delayed baggage
- Cover for some Coronavirus-related events.
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.
Five top things to be aware of when traveling in the Caribbean
- Severe Weather
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
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).
- Adventure awaits!
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:
- Scuba diving and snorkelling
- Sailing
- Horse riding
- Hiking
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.
- Medical Emergencies
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.
- Passports and Visas
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.
What’s not covered?
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:
- Pre-existing medical conditions: see the policy wording for details.
- Activities and sports: participation in a sport or activity not listed in the policy wording, or one that's offered by World Nomads, but you haven't paid the required additional premium or requirement.
- Not following doctor’s orders: disobeying your treating doctor’s directions and/or those of our Emergency Assistance Team.
- Leaving valuables unattended: stolen, lost or damaged personal belongings that were left unguarded.
- Recovering expenses: expenses you have not made every reasonable attempt to recover from the carrier, accommodation provider, booking or travel agents, any compensation scheme, or other source.
- Not following travel advice: if you travel against medical advice or neglect to adhere to government ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure.
Looking for more travel inspiration for the Caribbean?
Check out some of our other articles and information to help you plan your ideal Caribbean adventure including:
- Our guide to travelling the Caribbean
- 5 unforgettable experiences in the Caribbean
- How to stay safe while traveling the Caribbean islands
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.
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 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 team
