Travel insurance when on a road trip
Whether you’re embarking on a cross-country adventure or taking the coastal route, don’t start your road trip without considering travel insurance
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One of the best things about road trips is the freedom to explore at your own pace, an on our own terms. Travel insurance is designed for many modes of transport, but there are specific reasons why it’s important for road trips.
Trip cancellation
Anything from falling ill to jury duty can prevent you from taking your trip. With this coverage, you may be able to recuperate your pre-paid, non-refundable deposits.
Emergency medical
Safety is a priority when you’re getting behind the wheel and traveling to new destinations. A trip protection plan can buffer the hazards of being on the road.
Rental car insurance
Car breakdowns and traffic accidents can put a dent in your wallet (as well as your car) if you don’t have vehicle coverage. Some World Nomads plans offer damage collision waiver coverage depending on your country of residence and your choice of a Standard or Explorer plan.
Emergency Assistance
If you’re in a crisis, whether you’re stranded in the middle of nowhere or need urgent medical attention, our Emergency Assistance team is available 24/7 in whatever part of the world you’re traveling.
Trip interruption and delay
You may need help getting your trip back on track when you encounter problems whether that be a sudden illness, or an incident caused by bad weather.
Baggage and personal belongings
If thieves break into your hotel room, you can make a claim for a replacement or a reimbursement of your stolen items.
There are many ways to explore the globe, but nothing beats getting in a car or camper van and exploring some the big cities and off the beaten track scenery. Taking the extra time to research and plan ahead – and consider travel insurance – can ensure that you’re covered at every pit stop of your road trip.
What are the benefits of travel insurance?
One of the best things about road trips is the freedom to explore a region or country at your own pace, on your own terms. Travel insurance is designed for many modes of transport, and there are many reasons why it’s important while you’re on the road. You should note that coverage depends on your Country of Residence and varies between plans.
What's Covered for Road Trips Abroad?
- Sudden trip cancellations
Has your road trip ended before it started? An unexpected illness, a car accident or the US Department of State or similar body issuing a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning to a specific region or country can stop you from getting on the road at all. The cancellation benefit is for certain insured events and may allow you to cancel your trip and recuperate your pre-paid, non-refundable deposits when an emergency happens and depending on your country of residence and the plan you’ve chosen. Check out more about cancellation cover to know what you may be covered for.
- Unexpected medical emergencies on the road
Your health and safety are a priority when you’re getting behind the wheel and traveling to new destinations. Especially if your injuries are beyond minor bumps and scratches and you end up in hospital. Our plans include emergency medical, evacuation and repatriation coverage for ambulances or transfers to an appropriate medical facility when needed. If you’re accidentally injured or suddenly become ill while on your road trip, our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team is on hand to help you. Always check the maximum benefit amount specified in your Policy Wording.
- Rental car insurance for vehicle damage
Car breakdowns and traffic accidents can put a dent in your wallet as well as your rental car if you don’t have vehicle coverage. Our Explorer plans offer travel insurance cover if your rental car is damaged or stolen during your trip. Cover is also available for the cost of replacing rental car keys if lost, stolen or damaged during the rental period. You must have a valid licence in your country of residence for the class of vehicle you’re driving overseas, regardless of local laws. You must also comply with local laws of the country in which you’re driving. Please note: travel insurance doesn’t replace the need to have a signed rental vehicle agreement or damage waiver in place.
- Emergency assistance at any hour of the day
When you’re in an unfamiliar place (especially a country where you don’t speak the language), it’s hard to know where to go for help. When you buy a World Nomads plan, you’ll have access to our 24-hour Emergency Assistance team to support you in a crisis. Whether your car has broken down in the middle of nowhere, need urgent medical attention or a referral for roadside assistance, our Emergency Assistance team can help you out in whatever part of the world you’re travelling.
- Road trip interruptions and delay
There’s nothing worse than spending a lot of money on a big trip investment only to lose everything something unexpected throws a wrench in your plans. Trip interruption coverage can help salvage the pre-paid, non-refundable trip expenses that you’ve forfeited because of an insured event that disrupted your travels. Depending on your country of residence and the plan you have chosen you may have access to certain trip interruption and travel delay benefits. Our Help Centre article on trip interruption will help with added information.
You may also need help getting your trip back on track. If you get delayed while overseas by more than 12 hours, you may need to pay for a hotel or a meal as you catch up to your itinerary. Check your Policy Wording for any conditions you need to meet: your delay might need to be a certain number of hours, (more than 12 hours for international travellers) or be caused by an insured event. Our Help Centre article has information on delayed and missed flights.
- Protection for stolen belongings and baggage
You may have camping gear in your trunk or your camera in your compartment. Thieves can be crafty enough to dodge security measures and get into locked spaces. You can make a claim for a replacement or a reimbursement of your stolen items, up to a per item and total maximum limit. Please note that if the baggage is stolen from a vehicle, there must be visible evidence of damage and forced entry into the vehicle and/or locked compartment, which is confirmed by a police report. Always keep any proof of ownership, age and value of your belongings. And keep any receipts for items you buy on your trip in case you need to make a claim.
What isn’t covered for road trip travel insurance?
- Pre-existing medical conditions. Read your Policy Wording for more details.
- Loss, theft or damage to the extent you’re entitled to compensation from the carrier, other service provider or anyone else.
- Medical treatment that can wait until you return to your country of residence.
- Select personal belongings, such as bicycles (unless checked into a common carrier), professional equipment and musical instruments.
- Any other reason listed under the section exclusions and General Exclusions in your Policy Wording.
Need some road trip inspiration?
Check out these inspiring World Nomads road trip articles:
- How to Plan a Safe Road Trip During COVID-19
- How to Road Trip the Australian Outback Safely
- 4 Lesser-Known Canada Road Trip Ideas for Your Next Adventure
- Is it Safe to Drive in Costa Rica? Road Safety Tips
- 5 Safe Driving Tips for a Winter Road Trip in Europe
The policy isn’t designed to cover everything, so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the Policy Wording for full details so that there are no surprises if you need to use it. 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 hospitalized?
- 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
- Need medication?
- Suddenly sick?
- Accidentally injured?
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
- Hurt abroad?
- Medevac home?
- Need an ambulance?
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)
Car theft in South Africa
We parked a rental car in the parking lot of a restaurant in Haut Bay, an area of Cape Town. After eating dinner, we returned to the car to find that a window had been broken and anything within easy reach had been stolen. Luckily for us, we had been smart enough to bring our very expensive camera inside the restaurant with us, only leaving behind the case and an extra lens.
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 when visiting Great Britain
What to know when planning your British getaway.
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Ahh, Great Britain - home to the British royals, countless unique castles, stunning scenery, and a rich history, which spans from Stonehenge to Shakespeare and beyond. Before you book your trip to Great Britain - perhaps to see Macbeth at The Globe - get your travel insurance sorted, so the only drama is on stage with the actors.
- Lost or delayed baggage cover
- Overseas medical insurance and cover for Coronavirus-related events
- Access to our Emergency Assistance Team around the clock
- Cover for activities and sports when in Great Britain
When planning a trip to the UK the most common issues international travelers face are lost or delayed luggage, or unexpected medical issues. And now you can add Coronavirus to the list. But never fear, follow our travel tips to get the most out of your cover and your holiday in the UK.
What should I look out for when traveling to Great Britain?
Lost, stolen or delayed baggage cover
It can throw a massive spanner in the works to arrive at Heathrow and find yourself alone at the baggage carousel, watching it go around waiting for your bags to appear. Petty theft is common across Europe, and you could also get your gear stolen on public transport or from your accommodation.
The good news is that all World Nomads policies offer some cover (up to the policy limits) for loss, theft or damage to baggage or personal items.
Keep in mind that 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 options or upgrades you buy.
What happens if…
- My bags are stolen or damaged: as soon as you’ve realized your bags have been stolen or damaged please report it to the relevant authority (carrier, tour operator, accommodation provider). In the case of a theft, you’ll also need to report it to the local police or relevant authority, as theft is a crime. Insurance won’t cover things such as losing bags or valuables that were left unattended; this includes if they were left unattended in a car (even if the car is locked). Remember to always keep originals or copies of your receipts if you need to make a claim.
- My bags are delayed: you may be covered if your bags were delayed. You’ll need to report the incident and get a Property Irregularity Report (or a similar official report) in writing and make a claim directly with the carrier first. You may be able to claim your expenses for any essentials you have to buy to keep you going until your bags are returned. You must get copies of all written reports, luggage checks and tickets, travel documentation and all correspondence with the carrier or service provider if you need to make a claim.
You may also need to take depreciation into account and some policies, depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you purchase, may also have an excess applicable to any claim made. Details on how depreciation works can be found in your policy.
Tips for keeping your luggage safe:
- Never leave your bags and valuables out of your sight and reach.
- Always carry your electronics and valuables with you and lock your gear up in a secure location when you can’t take it with you.
- Remember that if you buy anything, before or during your trip, to keep all receipts.
Overseas medical insurance and cover for Coronavirus-related events
When traveling to the UK, overseas medical insurance is a good idea in case of an accident or sudden illness. You don’t want to be left out of pocket if you have to visit a local doctor, go to hospital, need an urgent trip to the dentist, or even worse, have to be repatriated back to your Country of Residence. All our policies include some level of overseas medical cover, so you can focus on your recovery if you fall ill or have an accident on your travels.
Tips for travel in the UK and Covid-19:
- It’s always a good idea to wear a face mask when visiting any of the UK’s popular hotspots, even in open-air places such as Stonehenge, London’s parks and palace grounds, or when strolling through the bustling streets of Edinburgh.
- The level of cover you’ll have for any Coronavirus-related events under our Standard and Explorer plans will depend on your Country of Residence. Check out our Travel Insurance cover for Coronavirus article which goes into more detail on all the benefits, including benefit limits, terms and conditions, and exclusions.
Access to our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team around the clock
Dealing with a medical emergency in a foreign country can be frightening and confusing, but you don’t have to go through it on your own. Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team can direct you to nearby appropriate care, talk to doctors, and set up direct payments to the medical facility if needed. If your situation is life-threatening, seek medical help immediately and let us know when you can so we can help with medical assistance and keeping your friends and family informed.
Cover for activities and sports when in Great Britain
If you’re looking to get your adrenaline levels up by going hiking in Snowdonia, or camping and mountain biking in the Scottish Highlands, World Nomads offers travel insurance cover for 150+ activities and sports.
Be sure check your policy wording when choosing any activities or sports as you may need to upgrade the policy and sporting level to ensure you’re covered for everything you plan to do. If you’re not sure whether an activity is covered, just contact us.
Are you looking for more travel inspiration for Great Britain? World Nomads has various articles that cover a range of fun topics on Great Britain or check out our articles if you need the latest safety travel alerts.
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance – and it’s often cheaper than you might think! Featuring coverage for more than 150 activities, quotes are fast, free and you can do it all 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?
- Been made redundant?
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)
True Claims Stories
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 teamWhat to do if...
World Nomads travel insurance has been designed by travellers for travellers, to help you explore your boundaries.
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Bitten by a shark.
I was surfing and was bitten by a shark in Tortuga Bay, Galapagos Is. I was able to walk to the medical center in nearby Puerto Ayora, where I received emergency medical treatment from Dr. Idrovo. The treatment consisted of cleaning the wound, local anesthetic and ten stitches. A course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories/ pain-killers was prescribed. A follow of check 24 hours later (today) revealed no infection. I am able to provide photos of the injury and treatment.
S.C. British Nomad in the Galapagos Islands.
Travel Insurance for Vacation Rentals
Bundled travel insurance for vacation rentals, from trip cancellations to stolen belongings.
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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.
Space, privacy, the comforts of la casa – nothing is better than renting a vacation home, whether it’s a lakeside chalet, a New York City studio or a yurt in Patagonia. But booking from a private homeowner could add a “What if?” factor. That’s where travel insurance* comes in. Here are the need-to-know details of vacation rental coverage, so you can get on with your getaway.
Do I need travel insurance if I'm renting a vacation home?
Hopefully, the worst thing that happens to you when you’re staying at your rental is eating the free snacks too fast. But, if you find yourself in a pinch, travel insurance coverage can save your sanity and wallet.
What's covered by vacation rental insurance?
There are lots of reasons to consider travel insurance for your upcoming trip, including those that apply to vacation home rentals specifically:
- A canceled, delayed or interrupted trip: Do you have to cancel, delay or interrupt your stay at the last second due to something such a work emergency or sudden illness? With trip cancellation, trip interruption and trip delay coverages you may be able to recoup your pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs, including your accommodation.
- Stolen belongings: Did a thief break into your vacation rental while you were out at dinner and make off with your laptop or brand new camera? Personal effects may be covered, up to their cash value at the time they got swiped. (Just be sure to file a police report and keep a copy for your claim.)
- Medical emergency expenses: If those stairs are just too steep and you take a tumble inside your vacation home and you need to go to the hospital, your travel insurance plan from World Nomads may help save your wallet. You may also be reimbursed if you have to stay in your location longer than expected, to recover.
- A natural disaster: A flood or forest fire standing between you and the vacation rental of your dreams? If the property has been destroyed or you can’t stay there due to an unforeseen natural disaster, we’ve got a silver lining in that cloud: you may be reimbursed your pre-paid, non-refundable trip expenses (more dollars for your next adventure).
What's not covered by vacation rental travel insurance?
- Furniture or any other items that are part of the vacation rental (travel insurance protects only the belongings you own.)
- Alcohol and drug-related incidents and illegal activities (partying is banned at most vacation rentals, anyway.)
- Negligence. Did you get back to your vacation rental only to discover you left a burner on...and the kitchen is on fire? Or maybe you forgot to lock up the way the homeowner asked before you checked out and a burglar ransacked the place. These types of scenarios are excluded.
- Not living up to expectations. If the vacation rental doesn’t look exactly like it did in the pictures or has a weird smell, you may have to stay somewhere else... on your own dime.
Psst! Want to know more about what’s covered and not covered by travel insurance? Read your insurance plan documents carefully and contact us if you have any questions.
*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 hospitalized?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medevac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the team
