Photo © Getty Images / Virojt Changyencham

What to do if your flight is delayed or cancelled

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You’re at the airport, ready to go and just found out your flight is not leaving on time. What you do next can make the difference between a successful claim for compensation or a refund, and a long night on an uncomfortable airline bench.

To avoid you added pain we have put together some information that will help if you’re stuck at an airport, what you’re covered for, and what you’re not covered for and some added tips.

Step 1: Find out the reason for the flight delay or cancellation

If you think it could be more than just a short period of time, it’s worth finding out some information which can help if you need to make a claim, or claim compensation or a refund against the airline:

  • How long the delay will be; and
  • What is the reason for the delay.

 Traveller tip 1: if you are going to miss your flight because you’re just running late, that’s not an Insured Event. Under World Nomads policies, if an event is not specifically listed as an Insured Event, there is no cover for that event. Always make sure you read your Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for a full description of the coverage, terms, conditions and exclusions that apply.

2. Get it in writing

Ask the service desk to give you evidence of why it was delayed.  Travel insurance covers certain events, so you’ll need to show it was one of these for any claim to be successful. If for example it’s because of bad weather, then ask them to put that in writing for you.  Some of our travellers report service desks have given them proof on letterhead paper at the airport on the spot – and if they can't get their customer service and complaints contact details and initiate contact on the spot

Step 3: Get a refund or get the carrier to reschedule your flight

If you have been out of pocket or incurred expenses because of the delay then your first port of call must be to seek compensation, help to rearrange or reschedule your plans or a refund from the airline or travel providers who have not been able to provide their services to you.  And yes – if you decide to claim against your travel insurance policy for any costs you've incurred, then you’ll need evidence you tried to get a refund first.  If you don’t have evidence, we’ll probably ask you for it which may delay any claim you make. We suggest you approach your airline or travel provider first. 

Note: In Australia you have rights under consumer protection legislation called the consumer guarantee in certain circumstances if your flight is delayed or cancelled. These are enshrined in the Montreal Convention which applies to residents from many countries. You must accept any reasonable alternative options offered by the provider.

Step 4: Keep all your documentation

If you’re still out of pocket after contacting your airline or travel provider for compensation, you can make a claim under your travel insurance.  We will consider all the information available to use and may a decision on your claim.  As part of that process, the more documentation you have to show you have incurred expenses because of a covered event, the more easily and quickly we will be able to determine your claim.

Step 5: Need to know more?

This information may help if things go wrong, and you want to make a claim. 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. Your PDS will always have the full details of what you’re covered for.

If you have any further questions about what’s covered and not covered, just ask us.

Note: If your flight has been delayed or cancelled, or you’ve missed your connection, your airline or transport provider should always be your first phone call. You must make every reasonable effort to contact your travel providers as soon as possible to seek compensation or offers to rearrange or reschedule your plans. When applicable you should exercise your rights under consumer protection legislation before deciding to incur additional expenses, change your travel plans or make a claim with us.

Flight delayed or cancelled - What's covered?

You may be covered for reasonable and necessary additional expenses, such as transport and accommodation costs, if:

  • you’re directly involved in a motor vehicle, railway, air or marine accident causing you to miss your flight
  • your flight is delayed due to severe weather, natural disaster, hijacking or strike, including if it causes you to miss a connecting flight.

By ‘reasonable’ we mean the standard of transport or accommodation you were booked to use. If you had an economy class ticket on a flight you’ve missed, you can’t upgrade yourself to business without being able to prove that it was reasonable to do so in the circumstances.

Check your plan’s policy for the benefit limits trip interruption expenses - benefit limits vary between the Standard or Explorer plan

In many cases, if you miss a connection or your flight has been cancelled, your airline may automatically rebook you. Before you travel, download your airline’s app, and refresh that as soon as you realize you’ve got flight issues. The one thing you do not want to rush to do is buy a new flight.

Check out our cancellation travel insurance What’s covered article to find out what you may be covered for in case you need to cancel your trip.

Traveller tip 2: In many cases flight delays or cancellations have been caused due to strike action. If you would like to know what you may be covered for in case a strike leaves you stuck at the airport read our Help Centre article – Does travel insurance cover strikes?

What to know if you’re making a claim for a missed, or delayed flight

If you end up stuck at in an airport due to a cancelled or delayed flight and you intend to make a claim for unexpected and unavoidable expenses. Some documents you may need to submit include:

  • Notice from the travel supplier or carrier confirming the reason, timing and duration of the unexpected event causing the delay, cancellation or interruption; any compensation or offers made to you; and confirmation of your claim and settlement with them, if applicable
  • Evidence of any accident such as documentation from an official body in the country where the accident happened: e.g. a police and/or relevant transport authority report
  • Documentation to confirm your travel itinerary, vouchers or e-tickets
  • Valid documentation from your travel supplier, event organiser or education provider
  • All itemised and receipted expenses.

See our article on how to make a claim for more information.   

What’s not covered

Travel insurance is not designed to cover everything, so take the time to read the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions in the PDS, particularly in the sections of cover that describe cover for 'cancellation' and 'trip interruption' so there are no surprises if you do need to use it.

Remember, if your airline offers you an alternative flight/transport, you are expected to take it, otherwise your cover may also be limited. You will  need receipts for any expenses you plan to claim for.

Here and the main things that aren’t covered:

  • Any expenses for delays, rescheduling or cancellation of scheduled public transport. services arising from reasons within a carrier’s control, including but not limited to maintenance, repairs, schedule changes, service faults, corporate takeover or industrial activity other than a strike (e.g. overbooking or change of schedule). Compensation should be sought directly from the carrier in these situations.
  • Any claim where you haven’t allowed for the minimum check-in or transit time or at least three hours for check-in and transit, whatever is longer OR if your travel provider officially requires more than three hours then you must allow for this.
  • Any reason for the delay or missed flight not listed as a covered event, e.g. you missed your fight because of heavy traffic on the way to the airport.
  • A loss arising from a change of mind, disinclination or reluctance to travel.
  • A loss arising from travelling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that is the subject of a ‘Do not travel’ warning issued by the Australian Government (see smartraveller.gov.au).
  • Delays caused by expected and foreseen events that have been widely covered by the media and through official government channels.
  • Costs that are unnecessary or extravagant.
  • Expenses that are covered by your carrier.

Handy tips if your plans are affected by a delayed or cancelled flight

If you think your travel plans might be affected, you should:  

  1. Contact your airline or tour operator to check if any travel services are affected. 
  2. If you need to change your travel arrangements, contact your airline, accommodation provider, or travel agent for assistance in the first instance. 
  3. Allow more time if you know there are strikes occurring that may cause delays but not prevent you from travelling.
  4. If you can use eGates then do so, as this may give save you time and alleviate further delays for other passengers.
  5. Checking in online in advance of arriving at the airport will also reduce potential waiting times for travellers.
  6. Keep in mind that other ad-hoc events can have further impact on delay times (i.e. weather, increase in passenger numbers etc).

This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions of the policy. You should read your PDS in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. If you are unsure about your level of travel cover, please contact us.

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 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 © Getty Images / Virojt Changyencham

What to do if your flight is delayed or cancelled

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  • As featured in:

You’re at the airport, ready to go and just found out your flight is not leaving on time...

What you do next can make the difference between a successful claim for compensation or a refund, and a long night on an uncomfortable airline bench.

To avoid added pain we have put together some information that will help you know what to do if you’re stuck at an airport, what you’re covered for, what you’re not covered for, and some added tips.

Step 1: Find out the reason for the flight delay or cancellation

If you think it could be more than just a short period of time, it’s worth finding out some information which can help if you need to make a claim or claim compensation or a refund against the airline. You’ll need to know:

  • How long the delay will be; and
  • What is the reason for the delay.

2. Get it in writing

Ask the service desk to give you evidence of why the flight was delayed. Travel insurance covers certain events, so you’ll need to show it was one of these for any claim to be successful. If for example the delay is because of bad weather, ask the airline to put that in writing for you. Some of our travelers report service desks have given them proof on letterhead paper at the airport. If they can't, then get their customer service and complaints contact details and initiate contact on the spot.

Step 3: Get a refund or get the carrier to reschedule your flight

If you have incurred expenses because of the delay, your first port of call must be to seek help from the airline or travel provider that has not been able to provide services to you. Ask them to rebook or reaccommodate you or ask for compensation or a refund. And yes – if you decide to claim against your travel insurance policy for any costs you've incurred, then you’ll need evidence you tried to get a refund from the airline first. If you don’t have evidence, we’ll probably ask you for it, which may delay any claim you make, so we suggest you approach your airline or travel provider first. You must accept any reasonable alternative options offered by the provider.

Step 4: Keep all your documentation

If you’re still out of pocket after contacting your airline or travel provider for compensation, you can make a claim under your travel insurance. We will consider all the information available to make a decision on your claim. As part of that process, the more documentation you have that can show you’ve incurred expenses because of a covered event, the more easily and quickly we will be able to determine your claim.

Traveler tip: if you are going to miss your flight because you’re just running late, that’s not an Insured Event. Under World Nomads policies, if an event is not specifically listed as an Insured Event, there is no cover for that event. Always make sure you read your Policy Wording for a full description of the coverage, terms, conditions and exclusions that apply.

Step 5: Need to know more?

This information may help if things go wrong, and you want to make a claim. 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. Your Policy Wording will always have the full details of what you’re covered for.

If you have any further questions about what’s covered and not covered, just ask us.

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 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 © Westend61

Surfing travel insurance

World-class breaks and classic beach towns. Surf’s up! Where’s your travel insurance?

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Stoked to be hitting those waves you’ve only dreamed of until now? You’ve mastered all that Brazil’s coasts have to offer and now it’s off to the Gold Coast, Indonesia or Oahu. But an awkward wipeout or an encounter with hidden rock could bring your dream to a premature end. So before paddling out, it’s a good idea to have your travel insurance in place.

What’s covered by travel insurance for surfing?

You might be a seasoned surfer and know the risks, but riding the waves knowing that you’re covered in the event of an accident makes you a smart surfer. A World Nomads travel policy for surfing may cover:

  • Baggage Loss: What if the airline misplaces your prized board and other baggage before you’ve even seen the ocean? Make sure you follow the correct Property Irregularity Procedures and your insurance may mean you can still head to the beach.

  • Lost documents: Mislaid your travel documents and wallet hopping from one beach town to another in Nicaragua? You may be able to rely on your travel insurance to ensure arranging replacements is smooth and easy.

  • Emergency Medical Care: One minute you’re flying across the waves, the next you’ve seriously wiped out. Getting overseas travel insurance for urgent or emergency medical issues before traveling may have been the best decision you make if you have an accident or even suffer a disability.

  • Transportation: The world’s best swells aren’t necessarily conveniently located next to the local hospital. Your travel insurance may well help you get from your secluded surfer’s paradise to the nearest medical center for treatment.

  • Trip cancellation: If you or a travel companion has an accident on the waves or falls ill, meaning your trip is cut short, your policy may help you get back home and recover your pre-paid travel expenses.

Besides wave surfing, your World Nomads policy may also cover:

  • Land surfing
  • Stand-up paddle surfing
  • Windsurfing
  • Sandboarding
  • Kitesurfing
  • Wakeboarding

Be sure to read through your travel insurance policy carefully as certain complementary forms of medical treatment may not be covered for surfing-related accidents.

What's not covered for surfing travel insurance?

World Nomads believes in providing support so that everyone has the chance to explore all the world has to offer. But you shouldn’t visit regions that have been deemed unsafe or unadvisable for travel, and you always need to be sensible and take care. World Nomads can’t cover everything, so please be aware of a few things, such as:

  • If you’re a beginner, take lessons at a surf school. Don’t go looking for a wave ‘pocket’ or a ‘ramp’!
  • Don’t go out on the ocean after drinking or taking drugs.
  • We can’t cover you if you don’t follow your doctor’s advice after an accident.
  • You should always take due care of your personal items when heading out on the waves.
  • If anything happens to you as a result of a pre-existing medical condition, you can’t expect to have your treatment covered.

How to get the most out of your travel insurance

As a surfer, there’s a good chance you’re going to be up for trying a few other adventure sports or activities while on vacation.

World Nomads provides cover for more than 150 different exciting sports and activities that you can try out while traveling overseas. But you should always make sure you carefully read the different policies - Standard, Explorer and Explorer Plus  - and decide which one is right for you.

Enjoying your vacation to the max often means making the right decisions. So when heading out for those early morning breaks:

  • keep an eye on the storm warnings.
  • recognize your own limits and respect the ocean’s warning signs.
  • check out the area beforehand and watch out for submerged rocks and reefs.
  • it may be a good idea to surf with others so you can always take it in turns to stay with everyone’s stuff on the beach. Your insurance won’t cover it if your belongings have been left unattended.

Obviously, on a surfing vacation, this is what you’ll want specific coverage for. But World Nomads travel policies cover many of those other unexpected and sometimes unavoidable things that can happen when away from home.

You may need medical attention after twisting your ankle hiking over the hill to another beach or eating some local seafood that didn’t agree with you. There is still even the possibility that you might catch COVID-19. Whatever happens, travel insurance for medical emergencies is important as it may provide you with medical care and attention when far from home.

The World Nomads emergency assistance team can also provide you with 24/7 help on a range of unexpected events. These may include providing guidance to the nearest hospital or police station or informing your family back home of any emergencies and helping receive funds quickly and easily if you find yourself in difficulty.

Obviously, this is just a brief outline of why it’s a good idea to have some travel insurance if you’re on a surfing vacation. For more detailed information, get a quote online and carefully read through the policy options available. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

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 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

Get a travel insurance quote

Simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.

Get a quote
A person hiking in front of a mountain
Photo © Pixdeluxe/IStock

What to do if you can’t go?

What to do if someone at home is sick or injured

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1. Rearrange or cancel your bookings

As soon as you know that you won’t be able to use any pre-booked or pre-paid accommodation, transport or tours, you must try to rearrange them, or if necessary, cancel. Your policy offers cover for some insured events that will allow for cancelation owing to injury or illness. Check your policy carefully to see if these apply in your circumstances.

Just remember, if you decide to rearrange, we’ll only pay up to the pre-trip cancellation benefit amount. If you don’t rearrange or cancel as soon as reasonably possible, we may not cover any additional rearrangement or cancellation costs that arise as a result. But you should only cancel arrangements when it’s absolutely necessary.

2. Get it in writing

To support your claim, you’ll need to get the following:

  • Doctor or other medical practitioner’s report confirming what happened and the nature of the illness or injury.
  • Hospital admission report (if the person was admitted to hospital).
  • Ambulance report (if they were involved).
  • A police report (if they were involved).
  • Any other relevant documentation related to what happened.

How do I make a claim on my travel insurance?

3. Keep your itineraries and receipts

You’ll need to keep your receipts, itineraries and booking and cancellation confirmations including details of any refunds received for any affected transport and accommodation.

Our suggestions should help you avoid unnecessary costs, gather the right evidence and help keep your claim hassle free.

Ready?

4. What if someone gets COVID-19 and I can’t travel?

Having a sick relative is stressful enough, let alone having to cancel a trip overseas too! For policies purchased after 17 June 2021, we now have cover on our Explorer Plan for some Coronavirus related travel events to assist our European travellers, including having to cancel or postpone your trip abroad because a close relative is diagnosed with Coronavirus.

We’ve also included cover for overseas medical expenses and medical evacuation and repatriation related to your Coronavirus diagnosis and this is available on both the Standard and Explorer plans.

Please note: COVID-19 cover depends on your Country of Residence and varies between plans.

To find out what cover applies to you, read our Coronavirus cover article, which has all of the details, including benefit limits, conditions and exclusions.

This information may help you avoid unnecessary costs, gather the right evidence and help keep your claim hassle free.

All travel insurance plans are different, and cover will vary, depending what's happened, your country of residence, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy. Your policy will always have the full details.

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 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 © Getty Images/EyeEm

Travel Insurance when visiting Singapore

Home to modern architecture, colonial landmarks and amazing food experiences

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Picture this: snorkelling on the Singapore Southern Islands, followed by windsurfing on Changi Beach, finished off with the cultural experience of a lifetime: Dragon Boat Racing. It’s a water sports enthusiast's dream come true.

Singapore
Botanic Garden, Singapore. Photo credit: Getty images / Tuul & Bruno Morandi

What’s Covered

With World Nomads, you have access to cover even when you forget to purchase it before going on holiday. If you’re already in Singapore and are considering purchasing travel insurance, then we can help. Please note there are waiting periods that apply when purchasing a policy while already travelling, to find out more check out our waiting period Help Centre article here.

World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) including, but not limited to:

World Nomads family plans: planning a family vacation full of adventure? Great call. World Nomads has policies that cover all family members while making memories together. Our cover includes two adults and up to eight dependents on one policy.

Emergency medical and evacuation coverage: nobody goes on holiday planning to need emergency medical assistance, but unfortunately, it happens. If the unexpected happens, we may cover reasonable and necessary expenses relating to your evacuation, ongoing medical treatment, and possible repatriation back to your Country of Residence if deemed medically necessary. Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team members can:

  • Direct you to the closest medical facility
  • Help set up direct payments to the medical facility if needed
  • Organise an ambulance if necessary
  • Put you in touch with a nurse who can help with medical queries.

Baggage and personal belongings coverage: so, you’ve packed your luggage and travel insurance, but the baggage hasn’t arrived as expected at Singapore Changi airport. Don’t sweat it. Our travel insurance may cover you for any reasonable basic expenses while the airline locates your belongings. Benefit limits, as well as, terms and conditions apply,

Activities coverage: Singapore offers Kiwis so many adventure activities to participate in: you could free-fall 10,000 feet on Sentosa Island, harness your inner Tarzan while swinging from the forest obstacles in Bedok Reservoir Park, or float through the jungle on a River Safari Cruise. World Nomads offers cover for these adventures (and 150 more) with our travel insurance policies. Simply specify all the activities you have planned for your trip when you get your quote, as you can’t add them afterwards. Terms and conditions apply.

Cover for Coronavirus-related events: Coronavirus interrupted your trip? Our Explorer travel insurance policy covers Kiwis for eight specific events related to some COVID-19-related events.

ourist in front of the Sultan Mosque in Singapore
Tourist in front of the Sultan Mosque in Singapore. Photo credit: Getty images / Lu ShaoJi

What are some travel insurance benefits when visiting Singapore

Whether you’re travelling for work or play (or a bit of both), Singapore offers the perfect combination of modern amenities and rich cultural experiences. It’s also home to one of the major international transport hubs in Asia. Which may explain why lost luggage is reportedly one of the most common issues for our travellers. Our travel insurance may help if you land safely at Singapore Changi Airport, but your luggage does not.

Working while in Singapore?

Singaporeans enjoy one of the fastest Internet speeds in the world, so pack the laptop for that work trip or flexcation. Keep in mind that although the rate of theft in Singapore is lower compared to other major cities worldwide, thieves are everywhere. While we won’t cover stolen items if they’ve been left unsupervised in public areas, we may cover the cost of your belongings (within policy limits) if you’ve taken reasonable care to protect them and they’ve been stolen or accidentally damaged.

Backpacking around Singapore?

Packed nothing but a bag and passport for your backpacking experience of a lifetime? Goodo. Check out Sentosa, Singapore’s island getaway, where there’s something for all ages, and once on the island, transportation is free.

While the simplistic nomadic lifestyle can be a breath of fresh air, it can also be hard to keep track of world events – especially when you’re planning out your route as you go. World Nomads keeps you up-to-date and informed with travel alerts, and if the unexpected happens, you can claim online, wherever you are in the world.

What to look out for when travelling around Singapore

Travelling to Singapore

What can happen in 15 hours? Well…you could leave the safety of a New Zealand airport and land in the bustling Changi airport. Exciting right?!? Thing is, even the best-planned holidays can go sideways, and sometimes landing in another country can bring with it unexpected issues…which is where World Nomads Travel Insurance may be able to help.

Eating in Singapore

Got a hankering for Hainanese Chicken Rice? Perhaps a craving for Chilli Crab? Singapore’s famous for its diverse cultural offerings for foodies. But what happens if that Satay doesn’t sit well with your stomach? World Nomads offers cover for overseas medical emergencies (including food poisoning) in both our Standard and Explorer policies (policy benefit limits apply).

Adventuring in Singapore

Considering kayaking? The MacRitchie Reservoir is a popular destination with crystal clear waters, lush vegetation, and convenient equipment options. Both our plans offer many of the same benefits for adventurers choosing to kayak inland or within three nautical miles from the coast. However, if you’re considering upping the ante and going kayaking, windsurfing, or sailing beyond three nautical miles off the coast of Pulau Ubin, you’ll need to upgrade your cover. Be sure to specify these details when you get your quote, as you can’t add them afterwards.

Coronavirus cover when travelling to Singapore

We recommend you research the COVID-19-related travel restrictions and entry requirements (including PCR tests and proof of vaccination) for Singapore before embarking on your trip. You can check out our Coronavirus cover article which has all the details for our policies, including terms and conditions, benefit limits and exclusions.

China Town in Singapore
China Town in Singapore. Photo credit: Getty images / Jiang Yu

What’s not covered

It’s important to note that our policies aren’t one-size-fits-all, and we don’t cover all situations that can arise when travelling abroad. There are some important general exclusions you should be aware of, including:

  • Pre-existing medical conditions
  • Travelling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that’s subject to a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning issued by the New Zealand Government. Find out more at Safe Travel NZ.
  • Neglecting to observe applicable preventative measures for the travel region, as outlined by the World Health Organization
  • Failing to adhere to the terms of coverage listed in covered sports and activities
  • 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.

This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your Policy Document in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

The information provided is of a general nature and is provided for information purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice in any form and should not be relied on as a substitute for obtaining professional advice that is specific to your circumstances. You should seek advice from a financial advice provider if you would like further information about whether a particular product is appropriate for you and your circumstances.

Traveller tip 1: if you’ve suffered a theft, get a Property Irregularity Report or other incident report from the carrier so you can submit it with your claim, as well as a police report. You should also have copies of the original receipts for your valuables and any luggage tickets.

Traveller tip 2: wondering what the best dishes are in Singapore? Check out our list of Singaporean foods you should try when visiting.

Traveller tip 3: Singapore prides itself on its low crime rate and impeccable cleanliness, this standard of living is a result of its laws. Laws that you should become acquainted with if you’re considering visiting Singapore. We’ve written an article detailing the local laws of Singapore, you can check it out here.

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 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 © Getty Images/EyeEm

Travel Insurance when visiting Singapore

Home to modern architecture, colonial landmarks and amazing food experiences

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

Singapore; the land of good times, great food, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re sampling the culinary delights of Clarke Quay, or scuba diving on Pulau Hantu island, there’s no doubt Singapore’s a top destination for Aussie adventurers.

Singapore
Botanic Garden, Singapore. Photo credit: Getty images / Tuul & Bruno Morandi

Singapore’s widely considered one of the safest countries in the world – that said, it’s impossible to predict unexpected events when travelling to any location, which is why you may want to consider packing travel insurance.

What’s Covered

With World Nomads, you have access to cover even when you forgot to purchase it before going on holiday. If you’re already in Singapore and are considering purchasing travel insurance, then we can help. Please note there are waiting periods that apply when purchasing a policy while already travelling. To find out more check out our waiting period Help Centre article here.

World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) including, but not limited to:

World Nomads family plans: travelling as a family? Kids can be adventurous (read: accident-prone) – World Nomads has policies that can offer cover to all family members. Our cover includes two adults and up to eight dependents on one policy.

Emergency medical and evacuation coverage: nobody goes on holiday planning to need emergency medical assistance, but unfortunately, it happens. If the unexpected happens, we may cover reasonable and necessary expenses relating to your evacuation, ongoing medical treatment, and possible repatriation back to your Country of Residence if deemed medically necessary. Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team members can:

  • Direct you to the closest medical facility
  • Help set up direct payments to the medical facility if needed
  • Organise an ambulance if necessary
  • Put you in touch with a nurse who can help with medical queries.

Baggage and personal belongings coverage: the average flight time from Australia to Singapore is eight hours. Chances are, you’ll want to get your hands on your toothbrush when you land. But what happens when your baggage hasn’t arrived as expected at Singapore Changi airport? Don’t sweat it. Our travel insurance may cover any reasonable basic expenses while the airline locates your belongings. Benefit limits, as well as terms and conditions, apply.

Activities coverage: trying to decide between zip-lining and skydiving while holidaying in Singapore? It’s a tough call. We have policies that cover both activities (and 150 more activities, sports and experiences) should an unexpected accident unfold. Simply specify all the activities you have planned for your trip when you get your quote, as you can’t add them afterwards. Terms and conditions apply.

ourist in front of the Sultan Mosque in Singapore
Tourist in front of the Sultan Mosque in Singapore. Photo credit: Getty images / Lu ShaoJi

Why should I consider travel insurance for Singapore?

Whether you’re travelling for work or play (or a bit of both), Singapore offers the perfect combination of modern amenities and rich cultural experiences. It’s also home to one of the major international transport hubs in Asia. Which may explain why lost luggage is reportedly one of the most common issues for our travellers. Our travel insurance may help if you land safely at Singapore Changi Airport, but your luggage does not.

Working while in Singapore?

Singaporeans enjoy one of the fastest Internet speeds in the world, so pack the laptop for that work trip or flexcation. Keep in mind that although the rate of theft in Singapore is lower compared to other major cities worldwide, thieves are everywhere. While we won’t cover stolen items if they’ve been left unsupervised in public areas, we may cover the cost of your belongings (within policy limits) if you’ve taken reasonable care to protect them and they’ve been stolen or accidentally damaged.

Backpacking around Singapore?

Planning on embracing the simplicity of travelling light? Backpacking’s a whole lot of fun, especially if you like spontaneity! But keep in mind, with spontaneity comes risk…which is why we provide our travellers with up-to-date travel alerts, so they stay informed and safe – no matter where they are in the world.

What to look out for when travelling around Singapore

Travelling to Singapore

You only need to speak to a few travellers to hear the gamut of things that can go wrong when flying: cancelled or delayed flights, severe weather, poor selection of mid-flight savoury treats. Unfortunately, we can’t supply chocolate-covered pretzels, but our travel insurance policies could be helpful if you need to book a hotel room due to a cancelled flight. Check out our Standard versus our Explorer plan options to find out more.

Eating in Singapore

It’s no secret Aussies love discovering new food…and it’s also no secret that Singapore serves up some of the best. Got a hankering for Hainanese Chicken Rice? Perhaps a craving for Chilli Crab? Singapore’s famous for its diverse cultural offerings for foodies. But what happens if that Satay doesn’t sit well with your stomach? World Nomads offers cover for overseas medical emergencies (including food poisoning) in both our Standard and Explorer policies (policy benefit limits apply).

Adventuring in Singapore

Considering kayaking? The MacRitchie Reservoir is a popular destination with crystal clear waters, lush vegetation, and convenient equipment options. Both our plans offer many of the same benefits for adventurers choosing to kayak inland or within three nautical miles from the coast. However, if you’re considering upping the ante and going kayaking, windsurfing, or sailing beyond three nautical miles off the coast of Pulau Ubin, you’ll need to upgrade your cover. Be sure to specify these details when you get your quote, as you can’t add them afterwards.

Coronavirus cover when travelling to Singapore

We recommend you research the COVID-19-related travel restrictions and entry requirements (including PCR tests and proof of vaccination) for Singapore before embarking on your trip. You can check out our Coronavirus cover article which has all the details, including terms and conditions, benefit limits and exclusions.

China Town in Singapore
China Town in Singapore. Photo credit: Getty images / Jiang Yu

What’s not covered

It’s important to note that our policies aren’t one-size-fits-all, and we don’t cover all situations that can arise when travelling abroad. There are some important general exclusions you should be aware of, including:

  • Pre-existing medical conditions
  • Travelling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that’s subject to a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning issued by the Australian Government (see www.smartraveller.gov.au)
  • Neglecting to observe applicable preventative measures for the travel region, as outlined by the World Health Organization
  • Failing to adhere to the terms of coverage listed in covered sports and activities
  • 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.

This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your PDS in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

Traveller tip 1: if you’ve suffered a theft, get a Property Irregularity Report or other incident report from the carrier so you can submit it with your claim, as well as a police report. You should also have copies of the original receipts for your valuables and any luggage tickets.

Traveller tip 2: considering packing nothing but a duffle bag and hitting the hostels in Singapore? Check out the do’s and don’ts of backpacking first.

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 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 © Mixetto/IStock

What to do if your passport is stolen

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Having your passport stolen really sucks. Thankfully some World Nomads policies may help cover your extra costs while you arrange an emergency replacement passport. Here’s how.

1. Report the incident immediately

Report the incident to the relevant authorities and get a report from them. This will include:

  • The police.
  • Your nearest embassy, diplomatic or consular mission for your country of citizenship.
  • For visas and passports from other countries – contact the relevant embassy.
  • Any other relevant authorities, such as the airline, hotel or tour operator.

Travel Insurance tip: for certain countries, it is an offence not to report the loss or theft or your passport as soon as you learn of the loss. It may also affect your travel insurance cover if you don't report it as soon as reasonably possible. Contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team if you need help with this.

2. Arrange a replacement or emergency passport

Carefully check the process to apply for an emergency or replacement passport with the consulate or embassy of your home country. You may need to attend an appointment at your nearest embassy or consulate after you’ve applied online.

You must provide us with copies of all documentation provided by the foreign government agency and the government of your resident country. You will also need a written police report when your passport has been stolen.

If you need to travel to a different location to apply in person or collect your emergency passport, you should arrange to do this.

Travel Insurance tip: emergency passports do not permanently replace your passport. They can be issued quickly with limited validity so you can return home or continue with your trip.

Travel insurance tip: Because there are no EU standards governing travel without a valid passport, processes vary greatly from country to country. If you have already begun your journey and:

  • You are in the EU, your first port of call should be the consulate or embassy of your home country.
  • You have the right to seek consular protection from any EU country if you find yourself outside the EU and your country does not have a consulate or embassy.

Remember that even if certain countries allow you to leave or enter their territory without a legal travel document, you may still be required to show one in countries you are travelling through.

3. Rearrange or cancel any affected travel arrangements

Once you’ve confirmed that any travel arrangements are going to be affected, contact any accommodation, tour, transport and other providers to rearrange or cancel any arrangements you may have. Make sure you get confirmation from them in writing of the changes or cancellation, and details of any refunds or extra fees paid.

4. Keep your receipts

If you think you'll need to claim, make sure you keep the official reports you were given and all original receipts as evidence to support your claim including your itineraries, booking and cancellation confirmations for any affected transport, accommodation and additional expenses.

5.Need to know more?

This information may help you when things go wrong and you want to make a claim. All travel insurance plans are different and cover will vary, depending what's happened, your country of residence, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy. Your policy will always have the terms, conditions and exclusions that apply.

If you have questions about what's covered and not covered, just ask us.

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 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 © Lukasz-Nowaki/IStock

What to do if your luggage is delayed

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  • As featured in:

1. Report it to your carrier straight away

Once you realise your bags are delayed, report it to the carrier (e.g. airline, tour operator) as soon as possible. For lengthy delays, you should ask them to compensate you to replace essential items you may need while you wait for your bags to be returned.

2. Get a written report

Get a written report of what’s happened from the carrier, for example a Property Irregularity Report, confirming the delay was greater than 24 hours from your arrival and any compensation they offer you.

3. Keep your receipts

Keep the receipts for any essential items you buy like toothbrushes, prescription medication or a change of clothes.

Before you go shopping for an entire new wardrobe to replace your designer jeans or a new ballgown for that special event, because you believe everything you own is "essential", there will be limits on what your policy can and can not cover, so check your policy wording carefully or contact us (Yes, we've seen claims like this!)

Original receipts may be necessary if you intend to make a claim and your policy covers these expenses.

4. Get another report confirming the length of the delay

Once you get your luggage, get written confirmation from the carrier confirming how long it was delayed. If baggage delay is covered under your policy, there may be specific time periods that your bags are delayed before the policy can help reimburse you for extra expenses, so it’s important we know how long you were inconvenienced. For example: cover may vary if your bags were delayed for a few hours compared to a few days.

5. Need to know more?

This information could help you when things go wrong and you want to make a claim. All travel insurance plans are different and cover will vary, depending what's happened, your country of residence, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy. Your policy wording will always have the full terms, conditions and exclusions that apply.

If you have questions about what's covered and not covered, just ask us.

Does my insurance cover my tech?

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 in an accident?
  • Sudden death of an immediate relative?

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
  • 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
  • Injured abroad?
  • Need a hospital urgently?
  • Medical evacuation 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 © Warren Gold Swain/IStock

You’re hurt in an accident

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

1. Safety first

Make sure everyone is safe. If you need immediate help, contact the local emergency services.

2. Seek medical attention

Get medical help from a doctor or hospital as soon as possible.

If it's an emergency situation, contact the local emergency services first, then contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team as soon as you can.

Once you’re able to contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team, please be ready with the following:

  • Your policy number
  • A contact number for where you are now
  • The nature of your problem
  • Your location

Depending on where you’re travelling, there may be Reciprocal Health Care Agreements in place (the Emergency Assistance team will let you know). The terms of your policy require that you use the public health system where possible, particularly when travelling in a country with reciprocal health agreements. 

If your private health/medical insurer offers medical cover for you when you're overseas, you will need to follow their notification and claims procedures before making a claim on your travel insurance policy.

3. Get it in writing

Most claims need supporting documentation and medical claims are no different. So, while it may be the last thing on your mind, get copies of documents that will support your claim before you leave the medical facility such as:

  • Doctor or other medical practitioner’s report, confirming what happened and the nature of your injury.
  • Hospital admission report (if you’re admitted to hospital).
  • Ambulance and medical evacuation reports (if relevant).
  • Provide written evidence to verify your claim, such as a police report (if they were involved).
  • Any other relevant documentation related to the accident.

 

4. Keep your receipts

You’ll need to keep all your receipts, along with your itineraries and booking and cancellation confirmations for any affected travel arrangements for when you claim. If you don’t do this, we may reduce or reject your claim.

5. Need to know more?

This information may help you when things go wrong and you want to make a claim. All travel insurance plans are different and cover will vary, depending what's happened, your country of residence, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy. Your policy will always have the full details.

If you have questions about what's covered and not covered, just ask us.

How does my travel insurance policy help me in an emergency?

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 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 © Andresr/IStock

What to do if you fall suddenly ill

    As featured in:

  • As featured in:

1. Seek medical attention

Get medical help from a medical practitioner, such as a doctor, or by going to a hospital as soon as possible.

If it's an emergency situation, contact the local emergency services first, then contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team as soon as you can.

Once you’re able to contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team, please be ready with the following:

  • Your policy number
  • A contact number for where you are now
  • The nature of your problem
  • Your location

Please be aware that depending on where you’re travelling to, there may be Reciprocal Health Care Agreements in place (the Emergency Assistance team will let you know). The terms of your policy require that you use the public health system where possible, particularly when travelling in a country with reciprocal health agreements.

If your private health/medical insurer offers medical cover for you when you're overseas, you will need to follow their notification and claims procedures before making a claim on your travel insurance policy.

2. Get it in writing

Most claims need supporting documentation and medical claims are no different. So while it may be the last thing on your mind, do try and get copies of documents that will support your claim before you leave the medical facility such as:

  • Doctor or other medical practitioner’s report confirming your illness.
  • Hospital Admission report, if you’re admitted to hospital.
  • Ambulance and Medical evacuation reports if relevant.

In some cases, we may need to obtain your past medical history from your usual doctor at home but we’ll let you know if this is the case.

3. Keep your receipts

You’ll need to keep all your receipts, along with your itineraries and booking and cancellation confirmations for any affected travel arrangements for when you claim. If you don’t do this, we may reduce or reject your claim.

Cover for European nomads if COVID-19 derails your overseas trip

If you, a relative or someone in your travelling party falls ill due to Coronavirus, you may be covered for a number of insured events under our Medical and Coronavirus Travel Costs benefit sections.

Cover varies between our Standard and Explorer plans. If you are diagnosed with Coronavirus while overseas your benefits include:

  • 24/7 access to our Emergency Assistance team, who can help you access local medical care.
  • Medical costs including hospitalisation.
  • Evacuation or repatriation if deemed necessary by us and in consultation with your attending physician.

Benefit limits apply and vary between the plans.

Our COVID-19 cover benefits have been created to give European travellers the opportunity to travel more securely knowing that they have the option to access a set of travel and medical benefits on our Standard and Explorer plans.

If you have purchased the Explorer Plan, cover is available for some Coronavirus-related Insured events, including but not limited to:

  • Personal quarantine costs: If you or a member of your travelling party go into compulsory personal quarantine as a result of your or their diagnosis of, or confirmed close contact with a case of Coronavirus, we’ll pay for your reasonable additional travel, meals and accommodation, including in-room entertainment. (On trip)
  • Childcare: If you are unable to take care of your children due to your Coronavirus diagnosis, we’ll pay your reasonable additional childcare costs for a registered or qualified childcare worker to take care of your dependent children who would otherwise have been in your full-time care. (On trip)
  • Pet care: If you are diagnosed with Coronavirus, we will pay your reasonable additional pet care services, including kennel and cattery boarding fees or professional pet sitting services in your country of residence. (On trip)

Please note: COVID-19 cover depends on your Country of Residence and varies between plans.

To find out what cover applies to you, read our Coronavirus cover article, which has all of the details, including benefit limits, conditions and exclusions.

4. Check your local government and international health guidelines on vaccinations

It's a requirement to stay up to date with all required vaccinations for the destination(s) you're heading to and that may include the Coronavirus vaccine among others.

Follow the advice of your Foreign Ministry and local advice, in addition to the precautionary measures set out by the World Health Organization (WHO). Take the time to research what these may be before you go, so you’re fully prepared if you get sick with Coronavirus. For more about COVID-19 and vaccination tips please click here.

5. Need to know more?

This information may help you when things go wrong and you want to make a claim. All travel insurance plans are different and cover will vary, depending what's happened, your country of residence, the plan you choose and any options or upgrades you buy. Your policy will always have the full details.

If you have questions about what's covered and not covered, just ask us.

How does my travel insurance policy help me in an emergency?

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 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