Find out what cover is provided if Coronavirus (COVID-19) affects your travel plans
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For information relating to policies purchased prior to 14 July 2021 12:00am UTC, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased from 14 July 2021 please see below.
We know that many of our international travelers can’t wait to travel again even though they’re having to take added precautions as coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to disrupt global travel plans. World Nomads wants to help you travel with confidence, so we’ve added some COVID-19 cover to our insurance plans.
All our travel insurance plans purchased from 14 July 2021 include emergency medical and repatriation cover if you get sick with COVID-19 while abroad. Our Explorer plans also offer cover for some COVID-19-related events. Benefit limits, conditions and exclusions apply, and cover varies depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you chose.
Benefit limits apply and vary between plans. Exclusions also apply for pre-existing medical conditions, as outlined in the policy wording.
Benefit | Standard | Explorer |
---|---|---|
Emergency medical expenses overseas | Yes | Yes |
Medical repatriation/ evacuation (including funeral expenses or repatriation of your remains if the worst-case scenario happens) | Yes | Yes |
Coronavirus Travel Costs Note: This section has its own benefit limits which apply. Check your policy wording for full details or have a look at our Coronavirus Travel Costs article which has all of the details, including benefit limits, conditions and exclusions. |
NA | Yes |
If you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to yourself or a member of your traveling party being diagnosed with COVID-19 by a medical practitioner, or if your close relative back home is hospitalized or dies due to COVID-19, we have provided some tips below, especially if you intend to make a claim. Please follow these simple tips:
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything, so make sure you’re careful with your planning and you read the policy wording to make sure you understand what’s included and what’s not, as well as the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions. If you have any questions, get in touch.
How to get medical assistance
Contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance teams as soon as possible, so they can support you from the time you fall sick or get injured, until the time you get home.
When you call please have ready:
It was my final day in Riga, Latvia. In my small bag I keep all my valuables, because hostels can't always be reliable with safekeeping. It contained my new GoPro, iPhone, digital camera, laptop and hard drive, plus my emergency money (200 euros). I planned on using my cameras and computer for editing later that afternoon. The coast was amazing and as it got late, I decided to take the train back to Riga city. As I was getting off the train, down the vertical steep steps, I had my bag snatched off my shoulder. In seconds, the doors closed and the train pulled off. Telling authorities on the platforms immediately, they could not assist and referred me straight to the police. Feeling helpless, I went to the police where I was kept for hours because of English barriers and translations of documents. I walked out just after midnight with my report. A day trip I won't forget soon.
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 teamWorld Nomads travel insurance has been designed by travelers for travelers, to cover your trip essentials.
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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 anaesthetic and 10 stitches. A course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories/ pain-killers was prescribed. A follow-up check 24 hours later (today) revealed no infection.
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 teamHow World Nomads' plans cover Americans against COVID-19 while they travel.
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World Nomads plans include benefits that support you should you unexpectedly get sick while traveling. Our medical coverage includes benefits for serious illnesses, such as COVID-19, or being placed under strict quarantine by a physician, among other scenarios.
World Nomads travel insurance policies may provide coverage for specified benefits if you are unable to travel due to COVID-19.
These benefits may include emergency medical care, emergency medical evacuation, trip delay and trip interruption coverage if you contract COVID-19 while traveling and a doctor certifies you are too sick to travel.
You may also be eligible for trip cancellation coverage for pre-paid non-refundable travel expenses (such as flights, hotels and excursions) if you, your travel companion, a close family member or business partner are too sick or injured for you to leave on your trip, as certified by a physician.
You may also be eligible for trip cancellation if your host at your scheduled destination is unable to provide accommodation for you due to life-threatening illness, as certified by their doctor, or if they pass away. This can be due to COVID-19 or any other medical issue.
If you postpone your trip, your current travel insurance plan may extend to your new trip dates provided:
If you become ill with COVID-19 prior to your departure and after the effective date of your plan, you may be eligible for Trip Cancellation coverage. These claims will require a confirmed diagnosis from a physician with proof of illness that states you are medically unable to travel at the time of departure.
If you become sick with COVID-19 while on your trip, you may be covered for medical costs if you need to see a doctor or get treatment. You could be eligible for Trip Interruption benefits if a doctor confirms you are unfit to continue traveling. Please review your specific plan for the details and limits of such coverage.
Everything Brits need to know about travel insurance for kayaking and rafting
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Ready to explore the world from a kayak or go rafting in the great outdoors? Whether you’re planning to paddle lakes, beaches and rivers you may need travel insurance for unexpected accidents if you’re already on the water or working out your next kayaking and rafting adventure.
When you get a travel insurance quote for your kayaking or rafting trip, you need to add your kayaking/rafting adventure activity when prompted to. World Nomads plans for British residents cover the following categories of kayaking and rafting:
Travel Insurance Tip: for some activities you must be with a professional, qualified and licensed guide, instructor or operator. If you're not sure if the operator you're planning on rafting with is properly licenced ask to see their credentials and if you're still not sure, don't risk it. Not only can it be dangerous rafting with an operator who isn't properly licensed but it can affect your cover for any claims that you may make.
Whether you’re white water rafting in Alaska, canoeing in the fjords of Norway or kayaking around Patagonia in Chile you’ll need to be aware of international river grades.
International River Grading
The scale is used for various water sports and activities, such as black and white water rafting, river boarding, white-water canoeing, stand up paddle surfing, and whitewater kayaking. When you are about to head down the river or rapids, make sure you know the rating as you wouldn’t want to be up a certain creek without a paddle! For more information you can always research the ‘International River Grading System’.
Please note that different activities may have different levels of cover. You may have to upgrade the policy and sporting level to make sure you’re covered for the type of activity you plan to do. Please read your policy documentation carefully before you buy it.
There are a number of different things our travel insurance cover can protect you from while you’re out on the water, or making your way to that next rafting hotspot.
Baggage protection: Have you had your kayak and gear stolen while travelling? Our gear cover may help with replacing belongings that were swiped from under your nose.
Emergency medical: Have things not gone to plan while white water rafting? Maybe the rapids got the better of you? Our emergency medical cover may come to the rescue in the case of an accident or injury.
Evacuation: You’ve managed to find a hidden hotspot for your next canoeing adventure but it’s nowhere near a hospital or medical centre that can help you if you get ill or injured. We have cover that can get you transported to the closest medical facility which may be best for your care, subject to approval from the 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team.
Trip cancellation: Has a sick or injured travelling companion put a stop to your kayaking trip? Your plan may be able to recover the travel expenses.
When it comes to any activity, safety should always come first. Your health ─ and your travel insurance cover ─ depends on your responsible behaviour. Follow these tips to stay alert and aware (and to ensure that you won’t invalidate your travel insurance).
Your cover will vary according to whether you choose a Standard or an Explorer plan. Read your policy for details on maximum benefit limits and exclusion and conditions of your cover.
Here are some other things we don’t cover:
What’s covered | What’s not covered |
---|---|
Whether you’re kayaking, rafting or canoeing our World Nomads plans may cover: • Trip disruption • Medical emergency expenses • Emergency evacuation/repatriation • Baggage delay • Theft of baggage and personal belongings |
We want to make sure that you are having fun out on the water but don’t overdo it as we won’t cover any incidents related to: • If you kayak, canoe or go rafting while under the influence of alcohol or drugs • No pro sports or athletic competitions. Professional sporting activities aren’t covered by travel insurance • Search and rescue costs • Reckless behaviour • Criminal or illegal acts • Changing your mind about your trip |
This is a summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the plans described. Please refer to the actual plans for complete details of cover and exclusions.
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 teamTravelling to Europe offers a myriad of exciting choices such as arts, culture, food, and sporting events. The possibilities are endless!
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Brits looking to travel overseas will be setting their sights on Europe and a variety of cultures and tourist attractions.
You could be off to San Sebastian for Tapas, on your honeymoon to check out the Santorini Calderas, or just wanting to relax and sip craft beers and fancy cocktails in Berlin... the possibilities are endless. But there’s always the chance that the unexpected could derail your holiday, which is why having travel insurance is crucial.
With World Nomads you can buy travel insurance as soon as your trip is locked in and you're ready to go, or while you're on the road travelling around Europe.
No matter how short or long your trip is and what your budget is, you should consider purchasing travel insurance as it may assist you if something goes wrong. World Nomads has two plans which cover an array of activities ranging from mountain biking to skiing, hiking, kayaking, surfing, scuba diving and more. We also offer cover for other key events such as:
Planning a trip around Europe is always a big undertaking as it involves many countries and many possibilities - this means making a lot of bookings for hotels, flights, trains, and tours.
World Nomads has two travel insurance plans to choose from, which may be able to help if you suddenly need to cancel your trip, or if you have to cut your trip short and return to the UK. A worst-case scenario is if you fall ill or are badly injured and need to be repatriated back home as this can be very costly.
Beware petty theft and pickpockets in key hotspots: While most countries in Europe are amongst the safest to travel to there is always the chance that you might end up being pickpocketed or being the victim of a scam in many top tourist hotspots. When in crowded areas in any European country always maintain a sense of awareness of your surroundings.
Keep an eye on your gear 24/7: It’s very important that you always be careful NEVER to leave your valuables out of sight. You can find out more about travel cover for valuables and gadgets and other high value items here. Make copies of all key documents you’ll be travelling with—passport, ID, travel insurance, receipts, vouchers, addresses, transportation tickets—and keep them separate from the originals so you’ll have proof of purchase if anything happens. Exercise caution in hostels and on trains; padlocking your bags to the luggage rack if you’re on an overnight train or bus is always a good idea.
Hold your cards (ID and cash) close to your chest: When in Europe you’ll need to have your passport, ID, credit cards and cash on you for all that great shopping! Always ensure you carry copies of your passport and any other form of ID with you. Also, a good idea is to have a money belt or neck wallet to protect your credit cards and cash when you’re out and about.
Have fun but don’t overdo it: We always advocate for enjoying yourself as much as you can while travelling but it’s also important to be aware of your surroundings and who you trust when travelling, especially if you are travelling solo around Europe and don’t know the local lingo. With a large number of festivals and enticing nightlife around Europe all year round we suggest not to overdo it when it comes to drinking and partying.
Traveller tip 1: Always make sure you’ve done your research on each of the European countries you’re planning to visit as there may be UK government imposed travel bans or restrictions in place. If you decide to travel to a country on a ‘Do Not Travel’ list be aware there is no cover as this is a section exclusion.
Since January 1, 2021, British citizens (still) do not need to apply for a visa in advance for short-term visits to the EU. According to the Schengen Borders Code, they can stay within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. To learn more about entry requirements for countries in the Schengen are check the UK Government website.
Travel insurance may be able to bridge the gap for some of these benefits for UK travellers – check out our Brexit article that may help clear any queries you have.
Traveller tip 2: UK residents should have their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) when travelling in the EU. This will give you free, or reduced cost, medical treatment. However, it's always a good idea to have travel insurance as a GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. With World Nomads travel insurance at your side, you may be covered for private medical healthcare costs, costs associated with mountain rescue in ski resorts or being repatriated back to the UK, or with lost or stolen property.
We have compiled this general information and handy tips on tourist visas and passports, and we have you covered if you’re looking for more Europe travel inspiration. We also have information on which countries are accepting travellers in our safety travel alerts section.
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 of 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.
You can also buy away from home or buy more cover if you extend your trip. Plus, you can claim online anytime, anywhere in the world.
Never travel without travel insurance. This was the first time I ever purchased travel insurance and I am so glad I did. A few days into my trip to Spain I twisted my foot heading down to the metro. Thanks to World Nomads I was able to get medical attention in Spain, and since, as luck would have it, I had a fracture that required surgery, they got me a flight home the next day. Filing a claim was surprisingly easy and when the claim was finally processed, I was reimbursed for all of my expenses including things like the extra week in the hotel I didn't get to take advantage of.
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 teamTraveling to Europe offers a myriad of exciting choices such as arts, culture, food, and sporting events. The possibilities are endless!
As featured in:
Like many of us at World Nomads, travelers from all over the globe are dreaming of a European vacation. With so many countries and endless possibilities, planning a trip to Europe can be a big undertaking. Tick one thing off your list before you go with a World Nomads travel insurance policy designed to keep you covered wherever you traipse in Europe.
With a selection of insurance plans to choose from you’ll have coverage, whether you’re enjoying the great outdoors on a family camping adventure in Trentino in Italy, going solo on a surfing trip to sunny Nazare in Portugal, or hiking with your travel buddy along El Camino in Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
With World Nomads you can buy travel insurance before you land in your favorite Europe destination — or if you're already there.
World Nomads offers cover for several activities, from mountain biking to skiing, surfing, kayaking and scuba diving.
All World Nomads travel insurance plans cover you for the following:
Like most destinations, traveling through Europe requires a certain level of common sense.
Beware petty theft and pickpockets in key hotspots: While most countries in Europe are amongst the safest to travel to there is always the chance that you might end up being pickpocketed or being victim of a scam in many top tourist hotspots. When in crowded areas in any European country always maintain a sense of awareness of your surroundings.
Keep an eye on your gear 24/7: It’s very important that you NEVER leave your valuables out of sight. If you're after travel insurance cover for tech gear and other high value items read more here. You should make copies of all key documents you’ll be traveling with — passport, ID, travel insurance, receipts, vouchers, addresses, transportation tickets — and keep them separate from the originals while abroad so you’ll have backups and proof of purchase if anything happens.
Hold your cards (ID and cash) close to your chest: When in Europe you’ll need to have your passport, ID, credit cards and cash on you for all that great shopping! Always ensure you carry copies of your passport and any other form of ID with you. Also, a good idea is to have a money belt or neck wallet to protect your credit cards and cash when you’re out and about.
Have fun but don’t overdo it: We always advocate for enjoying yourself as much as you can while traveling but it’s also important to be aware of your surroundings, especially if you're traveling solo around Europe and don’t know the local lingo. We suggest not to overdo it when it comes to drinking and partying. Always be careful of accepting drinks from strangers especially at big events as there are a lot of music festivals and sporting events throughout the year in Europe.
Whether you’re traveling to Europe from Australia, North America, India or Japan or any other part of the globe, travel insurance can be a life saver if you or your loved ones end up in a hospital in Italy with a huge medical bill, or if you need to return home unexpectedly and your Euro trip is cut short.
Tell us your travel details below and get a quote. You’ll be hopping a flight to Europe in no time.
Still deciding where to travel in Europe? With everything from sailing the Greek Islands to strolling the cobblestone streets of Paris, there’s much to choose from. Check out our travel inspiration on which places to visit in Europe to find your perfect fit. And don’t forget to stay informed on the latest safety travel alerts.
When traveling to Europe, it’s very important to have a valid passport and a Schengen visa if you’re not a European citizen as this will help you move freely around the 27 EU member states. Depending on the Schengen country where you are applying for the visa, authorities may ask you for a Schengen visa letter.
Important: The Schengen Agreement allows residents of certain European countries to travel freely around the Schengen Area as though it's a single country. For travelers from other countries, you may need to get a valid Schengen visa to do the same. Before you can get your visa, you may need valid travel insurance. We have also more handy tips on tourist visas and passports.
We get it, you want to make the most out of your travels around Europe and want to fit in as many countries as possible. The best way to be covered for all European destinations is to select ‘Europe’ or ‘Worldwide’ when you get a quote and choose your destinations. That way you will be covered for any country you visit within Europe. For more information check out our FAQ article - What countries or regions do I choose to get a quote?.
Also, depending on your Country of Residence and policy you have chosen, our policies may cover you during a stopover or if you’re in transit. For more information read our help Center article - Do I need extra country cover if I am only making a stop-over, but not leaving the airport?
Note: To access the correct information just set your Country of Residence from the country picker and it will redirect you to the most up to date information.
While many countries have eased COVID restrictions, some conditions remain in place. Entry requirements vary depending on the country you plan to visit, and your Country of Residence and conditions of entry change regularly. We encourage you to seek advice prior to traveling.
Just like no two travelers are the same, no two countries are the same. Most European destinations are covered, but you should always check the PDS for your Country of Residence and policy details for the cover you choose.
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 of 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.
Never travel without travel insurance. This was the first time I ever purchased travel insurance and I am so glad I did. A few days into my trip to Spain I twisted my foot heading down to the metro. Thanks to World Nomads I was able to get medical attention in Spain, and since, as luck would have it, I had a fracture that required surgery, they got me a flight home the next day. Filing a claim was surprisingly easy and when the claim was finally processed, I was reimbursed for all of my expenses including things like the extra week in the hotel I didn't get to take advantage of.
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 team