Photo © Alexander Spatari

Travel Insurance for a trip to Europe

Traveling to Europe offers a myriad of exciting choices such as arts, culture, food, and sporting events. The possibilities are endless!

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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.

Sea view of Pucisca Brac
Seafront scenery of small mediterranean village Pucisca on Island Brac. Photo credit: Getty images / Dreamer4787

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.

What’s covered for your trip to Europe

All World Nomads travel insurance plans cover you for the following:


Whatever your choice of overseas vacation, 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. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions, just ask us.

Like most destinations, traveling through Europe requires a certain level of common sense.

What should I look out for when traveling around Europe?

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.

Parthenon temple in Athens
Couple looking at Parthenon temple in Athens. Photo credit: Getty images / Matteo Colombo

Ready to go? Get a quote.

Tell us your travel details below and get a quote. You’ll be hopping a flight to Europe in no time.

Where to go in Europe

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.

Frequently asked questions when going to Europe

Will I need a Schengen Visa to go to Europe?

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.

Am I covered if I want to go to a European country for the day or a weekend?

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.

Do I need separate travel insurance insurance for each country in Europe?

No, our policies may cover multiple Schengen and EU countries under a single plan. All you need to do is select your intended destinations in Europe or simply choose 'Europe' when you get a quote. Cover will depend on your country of residence and the type of travel insurance plan you've purchased. If in doubt you can contact us.

Do I need a COVID vaccination to visit Europe?

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.

Which European countries do your travel insurance policies cover?

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.

Traveler tip: Always make sure you’ve done your research on each of the countries you’re planning to visit as there may be government-imposed travel bans or restrictions in place. If you decide to travel to a country on a ‘Do Not Travel’ list then your policy will be cancelled. You can find out more information on the US Department of State site on international travel by clicking here. Additionally, the World Health Organization has information on COVID-19 and travel advice which you can read by clicking here.

True Claims Stories

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.
L.D
U.S resident in Spain

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
  • Luggage lost?
  • Passport pilfered?
  • Tech trashed?

Help starts here.

  • Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
  • Trip Cancellation or Interruption
  • 24-Hour Assistance Services
  • Baggage
  • And more (depending on your country of residence)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

A true claim story

  • Never travel without 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.
    L. De Jesus,
    U.S. resident in Spain
  • I recently had a serious injury traveling on my own & the team was amazing. Being confused with a brain injury they took care of everything. Claiming was no problem, they were on the phone constantly to see if all was OK. I can't recommend them enough. Absolutely fantastic & l will always travel with World Nomads Insurance. Thanks guys for getting me home safely
    A.Brennan,
    Australian in Thailand
  • Just wanted to say thank you to this wonderful insurance company. When my husband notified the company that I had suffered a life threatening pulmonary embolism, World Nomads took care of everything. They contacted the hospital immediately and checked on my situation, A wonderful nurse called me everyday, speaking to doctors and making sure I understood what had happened and the course of my treatment. I would recommend World Nomads to every traveler. We are still travelling and until we return home will continue to insure with them.
    K.McMahon,
    Australian in Thailand
  • I was bitten by a monkey at the Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur. I went to a nearby clinic and they gave me a rabies shot, antibiotics to take for 4 days, pain medicine, and anti-inflammatory medicine.
    T.Ryan,
    Canadian in Malaysia

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
Photo © Maskot / Getty

Travel insurance for flexcations

Travel protection for when you’re mixing work and leisure

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It’s never been easier to unplug and take off, and many people are now able to work and study remotely anywhere, anytime assuming there’s good Wi-Fi, of course.

But travel glitches can come in all shapes and sizes, even with the most meticulous planning. If you’re planning on traveling whilst also working remotely, it might be worth considering how travel insurance could help if things don’t quite go to plan.

What is a flexcation?

As work and schooling is becoming more flexible – especially since Covid – there is an emerging trend of more travelers and their families opting to take 'flexcations',extended stays away from home that are mixture of leisure and work, and even going to school remotely, either domestically or abroad.

Why should I consider travel insurance for flexcations?

If you’re planting yourself in a different place while working remotely and playing locally, you might want to consider the following when it comes to travel insurance. How long am I staying? Where am I staying? What kind of medical coverage might I need? Am I taking along personal belongings that I can’t stand to lose? Is my entire family covered? How much am I spending on pre-paid deposits?

Just as planning a trip requires a jumble of components, there is a lot to consider about travel insurance when taking a flexcation. The good news is that there are several ways that that travel insurance may be able to help on a trip that combines business and pleasure.

What's covered for flexcations?

Whether you’re seeking a quiet haven or an outdoor adventure for your flexcation, World Nomads can offer coverage (up to the policy limits) for:

  • Repair or replacement of personal-use electronics, including mobile phones, laptops, and tablets you own, subject to depreciation and a per-item and total maximum limit.
  • Trip cancellation and trip interruption benefits for emergencies such as a member of your traveling party falling ill or a severe weather event. For more details, be sure to check your individual policy. Your coverage will vary according to your Country of Residence.
  • Emergency medical expenses for sudden injuries and sicknesses, including medical repatriation and access to our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team.
  • Family coverage or group plans for up to 2 adults and 8 dependent children, depending on your country of residence.
  • Feeling adventurous? Our policies can cover up to 150 sports and adventure activities, including scuba diving, cycling and camping, depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you choose.

We know that no two travelers are alike, so World Nomads offers two plans you can select to protect you and your family on your flexcation – Standard and Explorer. Each policy provides different levels of coverage depending on what you need.

Be aware that your travel insurance may only cover trips beyond a certain distance from your home, depending on your country of residence.

Check to see what geographic regions are covered under your specific plan, and whether your country of residence has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the countries you’re visiting and what these agreements cover.

What's not covered for flexcations?

Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything. These are some things that don’t fall under the scope of your plan:

  • Any pre-existing medical conditions
  • A sudden loss of your job leaves you unemployed
  • Any items lost, stolen or damaged that are unsupervised or unattended
  • Any adventure sports that aren’t covered by our policies
  • Any costs related to illegal activities or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Our policies aren’t designed to cover everything, so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the policy wording for full details 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?
  • 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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

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
Photo © TK/Getty

Travel insurance for Costa Rica

What coverage do I need as an entry requirement to Costa Rica?

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Rainforest treks, volcanic hot springs, cloud forest canopy tours, world-class surf breaks – Costa Rica is an adventurer’s dream! But before you head into the amazing nature on offer   to experience La Pura Vida, check out our travel tips to ensure you stay safe and have a great trip.

Do I need travel insurance to enter Costa Rica?

Visitors to Costa Rica may need to show proof of travel insurance coverage before entering the country. Contact your World Nomads representative to see if your plan meets the minimum requirements and to obtain a letter or certificate to present with your Health Pass.

What’s covered when traveling around Costa Rica?

All our plans offer cover (up to the benefit limits) for:

We offer two plans – Standard and Explorer – each of which offers different levels of coverage. It is up to you to choose what plan has the right level of coverage to meet your travel needs and that matches your travel plans.

You can get a quote, make a claim, or extend your policy instantly online, even while traveling.

Getting adventure sports coverage 

Whether you are river tubing near Arenal, mountain biking near San Jose, or snorkeling for sea turtles in Tortuguero National Park, World Nomads covers you for more than 150 activities, adventures and sports.

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

Your plan may also have conditions of coverage. For example, you may be required to wear safety equipment, book a tour with a licensed tour operator, or stay within certain parameters of your sport: treks may only be covered up to a certain elevation, or scuba dives only to a certain depth for example.

Traveler tip: be sure to check your policy for any exclusions, such as search and rescue missions and professional sports.

What to do if you sick or injured while traveling in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a well-known adventure travel destination, but there have been reports of visitors being seriously injured, or worse. 

All our policies offer coverage up to policy limits for medical emergencies, and our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team can get you help on the ground with translation services when you’re lost, injured or sick, whether you need an ambulance transfer, a prescription medication or a hospital that can treat your condition.

As avid adventurers ourselves, we know that some adventures in Costa Rica may take you far from medical facilities, and our policies may also cover you for emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Traveler Tip: get in touch with the EA team before undergoing any medical treatment; you may need pre-authorization before undergoing medical procedures or ordering an evacuation.

Road safety 

Road conditions can be poor around in Costa Rica, with huge potholes and other road hazards being commonplace. Some of our plans have damage collision waiver coverage for rental cars, depending on your Country of Residence, and whether you’ve chosen a Standard or Explorer plan. If you get into an accident, be sure to always get a report from the authorities, which you’ll need for any claims.

Our Emergency Assistance team has your back and is available 24/7 to help locate nearby hospitals, medical providers, or pharmacies if you need assistance while you’re on the road.

Keeping your gear safe 

Whilst a relatively safe country, street crime and petty theft such as pickpocketing can occur in Costa Rica. 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, and have copies or original receipts, which you’ll need if you make a claim). 

Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team can provide support in a crisis, such as helping you get in contact with an embassy or providing local consular details and information, provide multi-lingual support and translation services when needed, and keeping you in touch with relatives and friends.

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, limitations and exclusions 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 traveling (a waiting period may apply for some benefits). 

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 while traveling in Costa Rica?

Our policies aren’t designed to cover everything and there are some things we just won’t cover. These include, but are not limited to:

  • Any pre-existing medical conditions 
  • Any items lost, stolen or damaged that are unsupervised or unattended
  • Not following doctor’ orders: disobeying your treating doctor’s directions and/or those of our Emergency Assistance Team.
  • If you travel against medical advice or neglect to adhere to government ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure
  • Any adventure activities or sports that aren’t covered by our policies
  • Any costs related to illegal activities or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Want some more travel inspo for your Costa Rican adventure? 

Check out our handy guides and tips to get the insider scoop on Costa Rica 

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 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)
*This is a general summary only. Restrictions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Coverage may not be available for all countries, states or provinces. Benefit limits may vary depending on the plan chosen. Get a quote for full details.

Stolen Device

I was renting a room in Costa Rica. Before I left for an excursion, I put my valuables out of sight. When I returned, my trip my device was gone. There were a few other items moved throughout the house, but that was the only item that was taken.
U.S. Nomad

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