Travel Insurance for Asia
Travelling to Asia? With half the world to explore, there's a lifetime of adventure just waiting for you.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Travel in Asia
Draw a circle around the section of the globe that contains India, China, Japan, and Southeast Asia and you have more than half the people on the planet. Now imagine the diversity and adventures you can experience in Asia. Spanning approximately 30% of the world’s landmass, there’s a wide range of things for adventurous Kiwis to do and see and varying degrees of safety in between.
World Nomad’s Travel Insurance cover may be able to help you if something unexpected happens on your Asian odyssey.
- What's covered
- How can travel insurance help when travelling to Asia?
- What's not covered
- Handy tips for travelling in Asia
What's covered
In most cases, travelling goes without a hitch, but if something unexpected does happen, with travel insurance you may be covered.
With World Nomads, you can buy travel insurance as soon as your trip is locked in and you're ready to go, or while you're on the road travelling around Asia. World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) including, but not limited to:
- Overseas medical expenses: if you become sick or injured during your trip. You can submit a claim to recover unexpected medical expenses while travelling around Asia.
- Medical evacuation and repatriation: We can offer if you need emergency transport home due to a serious illness or injury. For example, if your trek to Tigers Nest in Bhutan goes sideways, with our coverage for medical evacuation, you can get transported to the medical facility best for your care, subject to approval from us.
- Trip cancellation: if your trip is cancelled due to an insured event. Depending on what’s happened, we may pay for the value of your unused, non-refundable expenses.
- Baggage and valuables: if your belongings are stolen, accidentally damaged, delayed or lost. The level of cover available varies between the two plans – Standard and Explorer- so check before you buy.
- Adventure, work, study and volunteering: we cover more than 150 activities so you can have fun adventuring your way around Asia’s mountains, waters, cities and skies.
Travel insurance tip: to avoid any surprises when making a claim, it’s a smart idea to become familiar with the various limits, benefits, available upgrades, terms and conditions before you buy a policy.
How can travel insurance help when travelling to Asia?
Asia covers a massive area and is made up of a diverse range of countries, cultures, people and access to facilities such as hospitals. Our travel insurance could help if you land in Phuket but your baggage doesn’t, your valuables are stolen while you’re browsing the market in Delhi, you or your travel buddy suffer an injury whilst hiking the Annapurna circuit or you catch Covid-19.
World Nomads offers two plans – Standard and Explorer. Each policy provides different levels of coverage depending on what you need:
- The Standard Plan covers a range of benefits and certain adventure activities and has lower coverage limits.
- The Explorer plan covers all the benefits of the Standard plan, with larger coverage limits, more benefits and covers more sports and activities.
Depending on the level of cover you choose, our policies may cover you for:
- Overseas medical cover and cover for Coronavirus-related events: If you become sick or injured in Asia with anything from ‘Bali Belly’ to an injury whilst participating in an activity, our policies can cover you for medical treatment including hospitalisation, prescribed medicines and prescribed physiotherapy treatments. If you catch Covid-19 overseas we will cover you for medical expenses and hospital assistance, as well as repatriation. Our Explorer plan offers extra cover for Coronavirus-related events such as cancellation, trip interruption expenses and some quarantine costs. You can read more about it in our Coronavirus cover article, which has all of the details, including terms, conditions, benefit limits and exclusions.
- Access to our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team: Our multi-lingual team helps take the stress out of already stressful situations and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. They can help such as arranging medical transport and giving support to you and your family.
- Lost, stolen or delayed baggage: if your luggage or personal items are stolen, lost or accidentally damaged, you may be able to claim to replace or repair the item. If your luggage is delayed for more than 12 hours, you may be able to claim for essential clothing and toiletries while you wait for your bag to be returned. Remember you’ll need official reports, supporting documentation and copies of your receipts if you need to make a claim.
- More than 150 sports and activities: Depending on what plan you choose, you can be covered for hiking trips, road trips, kayaking/rafting, surfing, scuba diving and scooter riding. If you use a scooter or motorbike whilst in Asia, you’ll need to ensure you hold the required license in New Zealand and in the country you’re travelling in and be sure to always wear a helmet, or you may not be covered. You can find the full list of covered activities here.
Travel insurance tip: if you intend to rent a car or motorbike you must check the licensing and local laws for the country you’re going to. You must also be adequately insured elsewhere, as you are not covered under this insurance for third party liability in respect of any mechanical or motorised vehicle.
What's not covered
Our policies aren’t designed to cover everything and there are some important general exclusions you should be aware of, including:
- Pre-existing medical conditions – see the Policy Document for details.
- Travelling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that is subject to a ‘Do Not Travel’ warning issued by the New Zealand Government (see https://www.safetravel.govt.nz)
- Neglecting to observe applicable preventative measures for the travel region, as outlined by the World Health Organisation, including obtaining relevant vaccinations, malaria prophylaxis, and hygiene measures.
- Participation in a sport or activity not listed or failing to adhere to the terms of coverage for listed sports or activities.
- Being intoxicated by alcohol or drugs.
Be sure to read the Policy Document and General Exclusions for other scenarios and expenses we don’t cover so there’ll be no surprises if you need to use your cover.
Handy tips for travelling in Asia
- Always check the Visa requirements – some Asian countries require you to have at least 6 months validity on your passports and some may require Visas that can take several weeks to organise.
- Check the season, especially in Southeast Asia. Will you be travelling in the rainy or dry season? Be aware of how this may affect your travels.
- Look after your health by having the appropriate vaccinations, taking your own medications from home, bringing insect repellent and checking out the latest health advice from the World Health Organisation.
- Watch out for pickpockets – petty theft can be common in some parts of Asia. Protect yourself and your belongings.
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.
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)
True Claims Stories
“A motorcycle came from behind me and stopped next to me, so I stopped walking. Two people wearing helmets were on the motorcycle. The driver was gesturing although I didn't know why, I didn't hear him/her say anything. I felt a slight pull on my bag and on my backpack strap, and then the motorcycle rode away out of sight. The motorcycle passenger had taken my bag. The strap of the bag must have been cut. I couldn't see a license plate. I continued to my hotel and reported the theft to the police the next day.”
Japanese resident in Thailand
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for Asia
Travelling to Asia? With half the world to explore, there's a lifetime of adventure just waiting for you.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Travel in Asia
Asia is one of the biggest, most populated and diverse regions in the world. With so many things to do, see and experience across a wide range of countries, it’s useful to know that World Nomads Travel Insurance may be able to help you if things don’t go to plan.
- What's covered
- How can travel insurance help when travelling to Asia?
- What's not covered
- Handy tips for travelling in Asia
What's covered
In most cases, travelling goes without a hitch but considering travel insurance could mean that should something unexpected happen, you could be covered.
With World Nomads, you can buy travel insurance as soon as your trip is locked in and you're ready to go, or while you're on the road travelling around Asia. World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) including, but not limited to:
- Overseas emergency medical expenses: if you become sick or injured during your trip. Your policy may cover you for your overseas medical expenses, up to the policy limits and when agreed by us. You can submit a claim to recover unexpected medical expenses while travelling around Asia.
- Medical evacuation and repatriation: if you need emergency transport home due to a serious illness or injury. For example, if your trek to Tigers Nest in Bhutan goes sideways, with our coverage for medical evacuation, you can get transported to the medical facility best for your care, subject to approval from us.
- Trip cancellation: if your trip is cancelled due to an insured event. Depending on what’s happened, we may pay for the value of your unused, non-refundable expenses.
- Baggage and valuables: if your belongings are stolen, accidentally damaged, delayed or lost. The level of cover available varies between the two plans – Standard and Explorer- so check before you buy.
- Adventure, work, study and volunteering: we cover more than 150 activities so you can have fun adventuring your way around Asia’s mountains, waters, cities and skies.
Travel insurance tip: to avoid any surprises when making a claim, it’s a smart idea to become familiar with the various limits, benefits, available upgrades, terms and conditions before you buy a policy.
How can travel insurance help when travelling to Asia?
Asia covers a massive area and is made up of a diverse range of countries, cultures, people and access to facilities such as hospitals. Our travel insurance could help if you land in Phuket but your baggage doesn’t, your valuables are stolen while you’re browsing the market in Delhi, you or your travel buddy suffer an injury whilst hiking the Annapurna circuit or you catch Covid-19.
World Nomads offers two plans – Standard and Explorer. Each policy provides different levels of coverage depending on what you need:
- The Standard Plan covers a range of benefits and certain adventure activities, and has lower coverage limits.
- The Explorer plan covers all the benefits of the Standard plan, with larger coverage limits, more benefits and covers more sports and activities.
Depending on the level of cover you choose, our policies may cover you for:
- Overseas medical cover and cover for some Coronavirus-related events: if you become sick or injured in Asia with anything from ‘Bali Belly’ to an injury whilst participating in an activity, our policies may cover you for medical treatment including hospitalisation, prescribed medicines and prescribed physiotherapy treatments. If you catch Covid-19 overseas we will cover you for medical expenses and hospital assistance, as well as repatriation. Our Explorer plan offers extra cover for Coronavirus-related events such as cancellation, trip interruption expenses and some quarantine costs. You can read more about it in our Coronavirus cover article, which has all of the details, including terms, conditions, benefit limits and exclusions.
- Access to our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team: our multi-lingual team helps take the stress out of already stressful situations and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. They can offer assistance such as arranging medical transport, and giving support to you and your family back home.
- Lost, stolen or delayed baggage: if your luggage or personal items are stolen, lost or accidentally damaged, you may be able to claim to replace or repair the item. If your luggage is delayed for more than 12 hours, you may be able to claim for essential clothing and toiletries while you wait for your bag to be returned. Remember you’ll need official reports, supporting documentation and copies of your receipts if you need to make a claim.
- More than 150 sports and activities: depending on what plan you choose, you can be covered for hiking trips, road trips, kayaking/rafting, surfing, scuba diving and scooter riding. If you use a scooter or motorbike whilst in Asia, you’ll need to ensure you hold the required license in Australia and in the country you’re travelling in, and be sure to wear a helmet at all times, or you may not be covered. You can find the full list of covered activities here.
Travel insurance tip: if you intend to rent a car or motorbike you must check the licensing and local laws for the country you’re going to. You must also be adequately insured elsewhere, as you are not covered under this insurance for third party liability in respect of any mechanical or motorised vehicle.
What's not covered
Our policies aren’t designed to cover everything and there are some important general exclusions you should be aware of, including:
- Pre-existing medical conditions – see the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) for details.
- Travelling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that is 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 Organisation, including obtaining relevant vaccinations, malaria prophylaxis, and hygiene measures.
- Participation in a sport or activity not listed, or failing to adhere to the terms of coverage for listed sports or activities.
- Being intoxicated by alcohol or drugs.
Be sure to read the PDS and General Exclusions for other scenarios and expenses we don’t cover so there’ll be no surprises if you need to use your cover.
Handy tips for travelling in Asia
- Always check the Visa requirements – some Asian countries require you to have at least 6 months validity on your passports and some may require Visas that can take several weeks to organise.
- Check the season, especially in Southeast Asia. Will you be travelling in the rainy or dry season? Be aware of how this may affect your travels.
- Look after your health by having the appropriate vaccinations, taking your own medications from home, bringing insect repellent and checking out the latest health advice from the World Health Organisation.
- Watch out for pickpockets – petty theft can be common in some parts of Asia. Protect yourself and your belongings.
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.
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)
True Claims Stories
“A motorcycle came from behind me and stopped next to me, so I stopped walking. Two people wearing helmets were on the motorcycle. The driver was gesturing although I didn't know why, I didn't hear him/her say anything. I felt a slight pull on my bag and on my backpack strap, and then the motorcycle rode away out of sight. The motorcycle passenger had taken my bag. The strap of the bag must have been cut. I couldn't see a license plate. I continued to my hotel and reported the theft to the police the next day.”
Japanese resident in Thailand
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for Thailand
Learn how travel insurance could cover your trip to Thailand.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
The Land of Smiles attracts scores of sun-seeking British tourists every year. Drawn to the tropical conditions, white sandy beaches, fabulous food, the Full Moon parties, and chaotic appeal of the cities like Bangkok, it’s not hard to see why Thailand rates so highly with British travellers.
- What's covered
- How can travel insurance help when visiting Thailand
- What to look out for when travelling around Thailand
- What's not covered
What's covered
World Nomads has two plans - Standard and Explorer - each of them providing cover for a multitude of activities including hiking, kitesurfing, kayaking, surfing and scuba diving. Some activities may require an upgrade where an additional premium has to be paid.
We also offer cover for key events such as:
- Medical evacuation and repatriation back to the UK
- Trip disruption
- Emergency overseas medical
- Delays or missed flights
- Lost, stolen or damaged baggage
- Coronavirus-related events
How can travel insurance help when visiting Thailand
We know the Brits love their cocktails by the beach, island-hopping explorations, and wildlife encounters, but as much fun as a trip to Thailand always is, it is just as important to consider what could go wrong and be prepared for that as best as any traveller can. The following is a list of travel insurance considerations:
- Activities and sports cover: Whether its snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, and cycling our policies may cover you for more than 150 activities you may wish to try while in Thailand. We know Brits are an adventurous bunch, and so long as you are with a professional, and adhere to the conditions, instructions, etc, you may be covered.
- Access to our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team: We know that when travelling in a foreign country, things can get lost in translation. That’s why we have a 24-hour assistance team available to you for the entirety of your trip. Whether you have a query about the procedures you need to follow if something goes wrong, or you just want to find out about medical providers where you are, the team can assist you.
- Cover for baggage / personal belongings: World Nomads plans offer cover to UK residents for luggage and personal gear. If your baggage is delayed between Heathrow and Bangkok, we may be able to help you with necessities. Same goes for any gear that may be damaged, stolen or destroyed during your travels, so long as it wasn’t a result of recklessness or negligence. Under the Explorer plan, the policy covers accidental loss or theft of your own money while on your person or stolen from a locked safety deposit box. Unfortunately, we don't cover your sports gear while it's in use.
- Medical emergencies: No one plans to injure themselves or spend more time in bed than out exploring the sights; that’s the last thing we want. World Nomads can assist with emergency medical transport, evacuation, and repatriation if you’re medically unfit to continue your travels. Terms and conditions apply.
- Covid 19 and travel insurance: Both our Standard and Explorer plans offer cover for emergency medical assistance should you fall ill with Coronavirus while abroad.
What to look out for when travelling around Thailand
Most travellers let their hair down when they head abroad, sometimes so much so that they often forget that they’re in a foreign country and need to always keep their heads in the game.
- Theft: British travellers need to be aware that pickpockets and bag snatchers are active all over Thailand, so be mindful of your personal belongings when travelling in open transport like Tuk Tuks and don’t think a short nap on a bus is without its risks, especially if you haven’t secured your belongings.
- Drink spiking: Be diligent about not accepting drinks from strangers in bars and don’t leave glasses and cups unattended. Drink spiking has been reported in Thailand, particularly during Full Moon parties. Not only can an incident like this ruin your holiday but it has in the past led to severe illness.
- Fraud: Think twice before handing your passport to a third party; it’s risky and losing sight of your passport is a big no-no anywhere. Keep a keen eye on your debit and credit cards during transactions, always use an ATM within a bank and keep your PIN to yourself. Skimming is an issue across Thailand, so if something looks untoward, wait and find another option.
What's not covered
- Costs associated with ignoring UK Government travel warnings or advice. This includes travelling to an area where there is a ‘Do Not Travel’ alert in place; and/or choosing to remain in a country after such a warning has been issued.
- Medical expenses incurred in the UK.
- Any costs associated with a pre-existing medical condition, unless otherwise stated in your policy.
- Travelling against medical advice.
- Stolen, lost or damaged personal belongings that were left unattended.
- Injury or damage caused by drug abuse or alcohol misuse.
- Participation in a sport or activity not listed in the Policy Wording or agreed by World Nomads where you haven’t paid the required additional premium.
If you have a specific question about World Nomads insurance, please visit our online Help Center or contact us.
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 Wording 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.
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)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel Insurance for 150+ Adventure Sports and Activities
Travel insurance designed for adventures while travelling.
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As featured in:
For information relating to policies purchased before 27 June 2024, please check HERE for the list of covered activities.
For policies purchased from 27 June 2024, please see below for information:
Adventure Sports and Activities
For many Irish travellers the need to go exploring the great outdoors and seek some adventure activities is a must when on a holiday. While it’s exciting to try out new adrenaline-pumping activities that you don’t get to do back home in Ireland you should also consider travel insurance when preparing for your next adventure.
Adventure sports, travel insurance and what’s covered by our plans
Whether you’re picking up a new sport or you’re a seasoned outdoors adventure person, World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) for the following:
Activities and sports cover: travel and outdoor adventures go hand-in-hand, that’s why our policies offer cover for more than 150 sports, experiences, and activities. While some activities are considered less dangerous, other types of activities such as rock climbing (outdoor) require an insurance upgrade and payment of an additional premium.
Emergency medical and evacuation coverage overseas – if you unexpectedly get sick or injured at any time during your holiday, seek medical assistance straight away. Firstly, contact your private medical insurance (PMI) assistance provider, if applicable. (See Travel insurance tip 2, below). If PMI is not applicable in your case, contact our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team to advise them of your situation and sort out any further care requirements. They can contact the hospital where you’re staying to arrange payment for your accommodation, treatment, and medications. We may also cover the cost of your repatriation back to Ireland if your injury or illness is serious enough, in our doctor's opinion. Exclusions, and in some cases, excesses apply.
Baggage and valuables coverage – if any of your luggage or personal items are lost, stolen or damaged, then you may be covered for the costs of replacing these. Make sure you have your receipts as you’ll need to submit these when you claim. Always report any stolen belongings to the local police within 48 hours and request a police report. If there were any witnesses to the incident, then ask them to accompany you to the police station to give their statement. Witness statements should be included with your other supporting documentation.
Extended stays – if you’re having the time of your life on holiday and don’t want to return home to Ireland just yet, then you may extend your Single Trip travel insurance policy subject to meeting residential eligibility requirements. Extensions for Single Trip policies can be approved for up to a maximum of 12 months from the starting date listed on your Certificate of Insurance. Applications for policy extensions must be made prior to 11:59pm IST/GMT on the date that your existing policy expires, however we suggest not waiting to the last day to submit your request.
Trip cancellation costs – few things in life are more disappointing than having to cancel a long-awaited holiday due to unexpected sickness or a last-minute injury. Should you or one of your travel companions become injured or sick after making your holiday arrangements, and need to cancel your trip, then we may cover your non-refundable travel expenses such as accommodation and flights. You will need to provide medical evidence to substantiate your claim.
What activities are covered?
While many Irish live and breathe their Gaelic games, rugby, and soccer, we also know that our travellers have a vast range of sporting preferences. That’s why we offer cover for over 150 different sports, activities, and experiences. While the list may seem long, by no means do we cover every single sport or activity.
Always make sure that any planned sports and activities that you’ll be doing are clearly stated. If you’re injured playing a sport that we do not cover, then any claim you submit, may not be approved.
World Nomads offers two travel insurance plans, the Standard Plan and the Explorer Plan. These plans both offer cover for expenses in connection with hospitalisation, lost luggage, repatriation, and more. However, the Explorer Plan costs more than the Standard Plan as it offers higher policy limits and more benefits.
Note: When travelling to Nepal, select Nepal from the countries list to make sure you are buying the correct cover.
Always read through the Policy Wording to decide which plan is best suited for the activities and sports that you have planned. If you’re not sure if something you’re planning on doing while on holiday is covered, please contact us.
What level of sports and activity cover do I get?
Our travel insurance plans categorise sports and leisure activities into four separate levels. Travellers are covered for all sports and activities listed under the level of cover they select, as well as those leisure pursuits assigned to any lower levels. The following is just a small selection of the sports we cover. Please check below for the full list of the sports and activities we cover.
Level 1
- Camping (to a maximum of 3,000 metres)
- Cricket
- Dance (ballet, ballroom, capoeira, salsa, and interpretive dance)
- Roller skating
Level 2
- Rock climbing (outdoor)
- Rugby (League/Union)
- Running (up to marathon distance)
- Water skiing (barefoot)
Level 3
- Mountain biking (downhill)
- Skiing/snowboarding (includes cross country, Nordic on marked trails)
Level 4
- Mountaineering (to a maximum of 6,000 metres)
- Skiing/snowboarding (terrain park in resort; outside resort boundaries; back country; helicopter/snow; alpine touring)
- Snow rafting
- Triathlon (full distance)
Travel insurance tip 1: several of our covered activities and sports are listed on multiple levels to reflect the varying degrees of difficulty or intensity. Always check before you go that you have the right level of cover for your desired activities, as you cannot upgrade to a higher level or add any other sports after you buy your policy.
What’s not covered
Here are just a few of our travel insurance exclusions. For the entire list, please check your Policy Wording.
- If your behaviour was reckless, or your actions were in violation of the laws of that country.
- Being intoxicated by alcohol or prohibited substances.
- Unattended belongings and luggage that is stolen, lost, or damaged.
- Pre-existing medical conditions unless otherwise expressly stated in your policy.
- Dental treatment that is not undertaken to alleviate any constant pain or discomfort. An example could be an implant procedure to replace a tooth that had been extracted in a surgery that you had years ago.
Questions to ask when choosing a plan
Before selecting a plan, it’s best to know what types of sports and activities you and your travel buddies will be enjoying when you’re travelling. These are just some of the questions for you to consider when picking a travel insurance plan:
- What sports and activities will I be engaging in on my holiday?
- What sports and activities do my friends have planned? Make sure you ask them about their holiday plans to be certain that they don’t have any surprise activities up their sleeves. A spur of the moment decision to play a sport that you’re not covered for might be fun, but would you really want to take such a risk?
- What types of equipment, footwear, or protective clothing will you need for your preferred activities?
- Do you need a licensed tour guide or instructor for any of your leisure activities? If so, have you checked that the person is in fact certified?
- What are the depths of my dives, altitudes of my hikes, or distances of my walks? These types of details all need to be established before choosing your plan.
Travel insurance tip 2: Irish travellers, if you require any medical treatment during your trip while outside of Ireland (and as soon as you're medically able to do so) you’ll need to contact your private medical insurance (PMI) provider (if applicable) and follow their emergency medical procedures and claims procedures. Where your PMI provider cannot provide assistance, get in touch with our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance Team as soon as reasonably possible before incurring medical costs, and also please provide us with details of your PMI provider to help us coordinate your care. For more information on what to do please refer to Section 8 Medical Sections of Cover in your Policy Wording.
Overseas adventure activity tips to help you have a safer experience
Are you fit enough for that?
Holidays offer a selection of leisure activities, many of which you may not have ever tried. Before you go trying new experiences, think about your fitness and plan your activities accordingly. Whatever you’re planning, make sure it’s something you’re physically capable of.
The right gear
When participating in a sport or activity, always wear safety gear. For example, you must wear a helmet when cycling or riding a horse. Before embarking on that mountain-climbing adventure, ask yourself if you have the right equipment required for such an undertaking.
Your activity operator should be certified/accredited
Make sure operators are certified and/or accredited by the appropriate body. For example, diving instructors should be registered with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI).
Keep a watch on your sporting equipment
Nothing beats the feeling of elation that comes from being victorious in a game of sport. Yet before you rush off to hit the bar with your teammates, it’s a good idea to lock up any sporting equipment first. All too often valuable sporting gear and bags are left unattended or even worse, forgotten about.
Opportunistic thieves can take advantage of these situations. No matter how safe you think your sporting gear is, never leave it unattended. If you can’t take your equipment with you or back to your hotel, then place it in a locker or keep it locked in a room.
This is a summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the plans described. Please refer to the Policy Wording for complete details of cover and exclusions. If you are unsure of your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.
World Nomads covers more than 150 activities and sports, and if it’s not on the list you can contact us and we’ll let you know if we’ll cover it.
You can read more about coverage for some specific activities to see the activities covered by the plans available to you.
We offer cover for:
- 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance
- Overseas emergency medical expenses
- Cancellation
- Baggage
Important information
-
List of Adventure, Sport and Activities covered
Adventure, Sport and Activities
List of Activities covered; including Level 2, 3 and 4 Upgrades:
UPGRADE FOR LEVELS 2, 3, 4 ACTIVITIES
Adventure, sport, work, study and volunteer activities
Level
Special Conditions that apply
Special Exclusions that apply
Abseiling (rappelling, rapping, rap jumping, deepelling, abbing)
1
(a)
(iv)
Aerial safari
1
(a)
(iv)
Aerobics
1
Athletics
1
Badminton
1
Ballet
1
Banana boat rides
1
(a)
Baseball
1
Basketball
1
Biking (see Cycling, Mountain biking)
-
Black water rafting (Cave tubing) (grades 1-3)
1
(a)
(iv)
Boating (inland and coastal waters); see also Speed boating and Sailing
1
(a) or (b)
Excludes: white water; (v)
Boating (outside coastal waters); see also Speed boating, and Sailing
2
(a) or (b) and (c)
(iv); (v)
Bowling / Bowls / Pétanque / Boules
1
Boxing (gym or outdoor training)
2
Excludes competition, bouts
Bungee/Bungy jumping
2
(a)
Camel riding (day tour)
1
(a)
(v)
Camel trekking (overnight/main mode of transport)
2
(a)
(v)
Camogie
2
A helmet must be worn.
(iv); (v)
Camping up to 3,000 metres (see also Hiking, and Mountaineering)
1
Camping up to 4,500 metres (see also Hiking, and Mountaineering)
2
Camping up to 6,000 metres (see also Hiking, and Mountaineering)
4
Caving (sightseeing/tourist attraction/recreational only)
1
(a)
Excludes: where ropes, picks or other specialist climbing equipment is required
Cheerleading
1
Clay pigeon shooting
1
(a) or (b)
(v)
Cricket
1
Cruising (cruise ship)
1
Curling
1
Cycling/Biking (incidental to the trip)
1
(v)
Cycling (independent cycle touring)
3
(v)
Cycling (on an organised tour)
2
(a)
(v)
Dance (ballet, ballroom, capoeira, salsa, interpretive dance)
1
Darts
1
Dogsledding / Sleigh rides (horse drawn): on recognised trails
1
(a)
Excludes: remote areas; racing; time trials; endurance events
Dragon boating (inland or coastal waters only)
1
Elephant riding
1
(a)
Elephant riding (overnight/main mode of transport)
2
(a)
(v)
Fishing/Angling (ice)
1
(a) or (b)
Fishing (inland or coastal waters): sports / leisure only
1
Fishing (outside coastal waters, deep sea fishing): sports / leisure only
2
(a) or (b); and (c)
Fitness training
1
Flag football / rugby / soccer / gridiron: non-contact
1
Flying (as a fare paying passenger in a licensed scheduled or chartered aircraft or helicopter)
1
(a)
Football (Gaelic football)
2
(iv)
Football (Soccer) including 5 a side
1
Frisbee / Ultimate Frisbee
1
Glacier walking / Ice walking
2
(a)
Go karting
1
(a)
(v)
Golf
1
Gym training (aerobics, spinning, Zumba, body pump, weight training, cross training, cross fit) (See also Boxing, and Martial arts)
1
Excludes power lifting
Gymnastics
1
Handball / Tchoukball
1
Hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking: up to 3,000 metres, on recognised routes
1
Hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking: up to 4,500 metres, on recognised routes
2
Hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking: up to 6,000 metres, on recognised routes
4
Hockey
1
Horse riding (leisure/social /non-competitive riding)
1
(a); a helmet must be worn
Excludes: hunting; (v)
Hot air ballooning (ballooning) as passenger only
1
(a)
(v)
Hurling
2
A helmet must be worn
(iv); (v)
Hydro foiling / Kite foiling
1
(a) or (b)
Excludes: jumping; (v)
Ice skating (indoor); excludes ice hockey
1
Ice skating (outdoor) on a commercially managed rink; excludes ice hockey
1
(a)
Jet boating: as a passenger, inland / coastal waters only
1
(a)
Jet skiing: inland / coastal waters, grades 1-2 only
2
(a) or (b)
(v)
Kayaking / Canoeing / Sea kayaking / Sea canoeing: inland/coastal waters, grades 1-3 only
1
Kite boarding / Kite surfing (on land or water); land surfing
2
(v)
Kite buggy
2
(v)
Kite flying
1
Lacrosse
1
LARP (Live action role play)
1
Excludes: battle re-enactments; (v)
Martial arts (Judo & Karate only)
2
(a)
(iv) (v)
Martial arts training (non-contact)
1
Moped riding/Scooter biking on road under 125cc
2
(b); a helmet must be worn
(v)
Motor racing experience (passenger only)
1
(a)
Motorbiking on road under 125cc, including pillion
2
(b); a helmet must be worn
(v)
Mountain biking - downhill (using downhill trails and/or mechanical lifts)
3
(v)
Mountain biking - general (off road/cross country)
1
(v)
Mountaineering to 6,000 metres (with ropes, picks or specialist climbing equipment)
4
Do not venture into any area without taking local advice and appropriate rescue equipment.
(iii) (iv)
Netball / Korfball
1
Orienteering
1
Outdoor endurance course / obstacle course / assault course / trim trail / tough mudder: up to 3 miles
1
Outdoor endurance course / obstacle course / assault course / trim trail / tough mudder: up to 8 miles
3
Outrigger canoeing (inland or coastal waters only)
2
Outward Bound, up to 3,000 metres
1
(a)
Paint balling/Airsoft
1
(a) or (b)
(v)
Parasailing: over water only
1
(a) or (b)
(iv) (v)
Rambling. See Hiking if above 3,000 metres
1
Rifle range/sports shooting
1
(a) or (b)
(v)
River boarding / Hydro speeding (grades 1-3); see also Canoeing.
1
(a)
Rock climbing (indoor)
1
(v)
Rock climbing: outdoor / traditional / bouldering / sport climbing / bolted / aid climbing / free climbing; see also Mountaineering
2
(iv)
Rollerblading / Roller Skating / In-line skating
1
Rowing / Sculling (inland/coastal waters)
1
Excludes: white water rowing; (v)
Rugby (League/Union)
2
(iv) (v)
Running, up to marathon distance; racing exclusion doesn't apply
2
Running/jogging: half marathon distance or less; racing exclusion doesn't apply
1
Safari tours
1
(a)
Excludes: firearms; handling and/or work with dangerous animals; e.g. big cats, crocodiles, alligators, snakes, elephants etc.
Sail boarding (see wind surfing)
Sailing / Yachting (inland/coastal waters)
1
(a) or (b)
(v)
Sailing / Yachting (outside coastal waters)
2
(a) or (b); and (c)
(v)
Sandboarding / Sand skiing
2
(v)
Scuba diving, including Shark cage diving; to 30 metres
1
(e)
Excludes: free diving; cliff diving; (ii)
Scuba diving (unqualified/learn to dive course/discover dive with qualified instructor)
1
(a)
Excludes: free diving; cliff diving; (ii)
Segway tours
1
(a); a helmet must be worn, safety gear
(iv) (v)
Skateboarding (ramp, half pipe, skate park, street)
1
a helmet must be worn, safety gear
Skiing (cross country/Nordic skiing on marked trails)
3
(d)
(i)
Skiing (snowblading)
3
(d)
(i)
Skiing / Snowboarding
3
(d)
(i)
Skiing / Snowboarding: (backcountry/outside of resort boundary/alpine ski touring)
4
(d)
(i) (iv)
Skiing / Snowboarding: (by helicopter/snow cat)
4
(d)
(i) (iv)
Skiing / Snowboarding: (dry slope)
3
(d)
(i)
Skiing / Snowboarding: (terrain park within resort)
4
(d)
(i) (iv)
Skydiving/Parachuting (tandem jumps only)
4
(a) or (b)
(iv) (v)
Sledding / Tobogganing / Snow sleds / Snow sleighs (on snow)
3
(iv) (v)
Snooker
1
Snorkelling
1
Snow rafting / Tubing on snow
4
(a)
(iv) (v)
Softball / Rounders
1
Spearfishing
2
(v)
Speed boating, passenger only: inland/coastal waters only
1
(a)
Squash / Racquetball
1
Stand up paddle surfing/paddle boarding
1
Surfing
2
Swimming (pool; enclosed, inland or coastal waters only)
1
Swimming with whales/whale sharks (inside or outside coastal waters)
1
(a)
Table tennis
1
Tennis / Pickleball
1
Theme parks / Fairgrounds
1
(a)
Trampolining
1
Triathlon up to full distance / Ironman; racing exclusion doesn't apply
4
Triathlon up to middle distance; racing exclusion doesn't apply
2
Triathlon up to sprint distance; racing exclusion doesn't apply
1
Tubing on rivers (grades 1-2 only)
1
(a)
(iv)
Tuk Tuk (as a passenger)
1
(a)
Via Ferrata
2
Volleyball
1
Water skiing / Wake skating / Wakeboarding
1
(a) or (b)
Excludes: jumping; (v)
Walking (see Hiking)
War games (online gaming)
1
War games/military simulation (see Paint balling/airsoft OR Rifle range/sports shooting)
Water polo
1
Water skiing (barefoot)
2
(a) or (b)
Excludes: jumping; (v)
Weight training (see also Gym training)
1
Excludes powerlifting.
White water rafting (grades 1-3)
1
(a)
Windsurfing / Sailboarding (inland or coastal waters only)
1
(v)
Working: professional, clerical or administrative work; working as a classroom teacher, classroom assistant; au pair, nanny or child minder.
1
(v)
Working: retail, bar or hospitality work involving light duties only.
1
(v)
Working: general work and manual work not involving the use of mechanical or industrial machinery, and not working at a height exceeding 2 metres above ground level.
2
(v)
Yoga
1
Zip line
1
(a)
Zorbing
2
(a)
(iv) (v)
-
General Conditions - which apply to all covered activities
We are unable to provide cover for anyone participating in any sport or activity if you are participating in or training:
- For a competition or a tournament at a national level (and where otherwise excluded).
- On a professional or semi-professional basis.
- Water based activities outside coastal waters, except where listed with the covered activity.
- Water based activities on white or black water above grade 3.
- At an altitude between 3,000 and 6,000 metres unless the activity is selected and the additional premium for the Upgrade is paid at time of policy purchase. (No cover is available for activities over 6,000 metres.)
- For any adventure, sport, study, work or volunteer activity listed under Adventure, Sports and Activities Not Covered.
Where noted in the List of Activities at
- UK - https://www.worldnomads.com/uk/travel-insurance/whats-covered/adventure-sports-and-activities
- IE - https://www.worldnomads.com/ie/travel-insurance/whats-covered/adventure-sports-and-activities
- EU - https://www.worldnomads.com/eu/travel-insurance/whats-covered/adventure-sports-and-activities
the following Special Conditions and Special Exclusions apply to some activities in addition to all other policy terms, conditions and exclusions.
-
Special Conditions
Special Conditions:
- You must be with a professional, qualified and licensed guide, instructor or operator.
- You must have the appropriate certification or licence to participate in this sport, activity or experience at home. If operating a motor vehicle, you must have the appropriate valid Irish licence for the vehicle and any other licence required by law in the country of operation.
- You must stay within 60 miles of a safe haven (a protected body of water used by marine craft for refuge from storms or heavy seas).
- This policy covers conventional skiing/snowboarding only. It is not a condition of cover that you ski or snowboard with a guide, however, you must follow the International Ski Federation code or the resort regulations; and you should not venture into back country areas without taking local advice and appropriate rescue equipment.
- This policy covers conventional scuba diving only. You are limited to your current qualification limit, unless accompanied by a qualified instructor, taking part in a recognised course requirement of your chosen Diving Association. You must hold a current P.A.D.I. (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), B.S.A.C. (British Sub Aqua Club), SAA (Sub Aqua Association), C.M.A.S. (Confederation Mondiale Des Activites Subaquatiques), or equivalent internationally recognised qualification and follow their relevant Association, Club or Confederation rules and guidelines at all times, or you must only dive under the constant supervision of a properly licensed Diving Instructor and follow their rules and instructions at all times.
-
Special Exclusions
There is no cover for:
- Any competition, free-style skiing/snowboarding, ski/snowboard jumping, ski-flying, ski/snowboard acrobatics, ski/snowboard stunting, or ski/snowboard racing or national squad training, the use of skeletons.
- Any unaccompanied dive, any dive in overhead environments, any dive for gain or reward, solo diving, cave diving, any dive which takes you deeper than your current qualification limits, or any dive deeper than 30 metres under any circumstances.
- Free mountaineering, climbing in remote or inaccessible regions, exploratory expeditions and new routes, high altitude climbing over 6,000 metres, mountaineering expeditions, or expeditions to the Arctic or Antarctica or of a dangerous nature.
- Personal Accident (Section 10 cover excluded)
- Personal Liability (Section 10 cover excluded)
-
Definitions
Work; working: any work, including volunteer work, work placements, incidental work and work experience, whether paid or unpaid, which can be classified as either:
- Non-manual work, which is any professional, clerical or administrative work involving light duties only, including for example a classroom teacher or assistant, au pair, nanny or child minder; or
- Manual work, which is general work other than non-manual work. Manual work includes for example general cleaning, maintenance, bartending, WWOOFing (participating in World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) and general farmhand activities.
Level 1 activities in the List of Activities are automatically covered. Your policy can be upgraded to include cover for Level 2, 3 and 4 adventure, sport, work, study and volunteer activities when you select the activity(ies) and pay the additional premium. All activities are subject to the General Conditions:
-
List of Activities NOT Covered under any level
- Acrobatics
- Activities at a professional or semi-professional level
- American football (Gridiron)
- Base jumping; Wingsuit
- Boating on white water
- Bobsled/Bobsleigh
- Boxing competitions or bouts
- Canyoning
- Caving/spelunking: other than sightseeing or tourist attraction
- Cliff diving
- Climbing: exploratory expeditions, new routes, remote or inaccessible regions
- Climbing: high altitude, over 6,000 metres
- Competing; competing at international events as national representative
- Crewing a vessel over 60 miles from a safe haven
- Cycling/biking: intercontinental touring, with a tour operator or independent
- Cycle jumping / BMX / racing / time trial
- Diving/scuba diving: unaccompanied dive / in overhead environments / for gain or reward
- Dogsledding / Sleigh rides (horse drawn): remote areas / racing / time trials / endurance events / on unrecognised trails
- Electronic scootering
- Expeditions to the Arctic / to Antarctica / of a dangerous nature
- Extreme pursuits / Hazardous activities (other than listed)
- Fishing/angling: commercially / rock fishing
- Flying: gliding / ultralight / private light aircraft / stunt flying
- Free Mountaineering
- Free-style skiing / Free-style snowboarding
- Hang gliding
- High diving
- Hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking / fell running: where ropes, picks or other specialist climbing equipment is required.
- Horse riding (equestrian, dressage, show jumping, eventing)
- Horse riding: racing / jumping / competing
- Hunting
- Ice climbing
- Ice hockey
- Kite wing (land, water, snow)
- Martial arts competitions or bouts
- Moped riding / Motorbiking: touring, or mode of transport to / from home
- Moped riding / Motorbiking over 125cc
- Motorbiking / Trail biking: off-road
- Motor sports
- Mountaineering expeditions
- Outdoor endurance course / obstacle course / assault course / trim trail / tough mudder: over 8 miles
- Paragliding / parapenting / parascending
- Potholing
- Quad biking / ATVs / Dune Buggy
- Rock climbing: soloing
- Rollerblading, roller skating and in-line skating stunting / roller derby / roller hockey
- Running: over marathon distance
- Scuba diving / cage diving: deeper than 30 metres
- Skeleton
- Skiing / Snowboarding: (jumping / stunting / ski-flying / acrobatics)
- Skiing / Snowboarding: (racing / competition / national squad training)
- Snowmobiling / Snow kiting / Snow biking
- Speed boating outside coastal waters
- Speed trials
- Work: offshore / underground, including as a guide
- Work: with mechanical / industrial machinery
- Work: with dangerous animals; e.g. big cats, crocodiles, alligators, sharks, snakes, elephants, etc.
- Work as instructor or guide: diving / skiing/ snowboarding / underground, in caves / where ropes or other specialist climbing equipment is required.
- Work: dangerous or extreme pursuits
- Work: at height from 2 metres above ground level
I bit on something hard
A bone chipped my front tooth, on the top row, and cracked it. Blood started to run down so I had an emergency visit to the dentist to repair it.
B.P. U.S Resident in South Africa.
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)
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 teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about adventure activities and sports insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
-
Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what’s happened! If it’s an emergency situation where hospital admission and/or medical evacuation is required, the insurer covers these costs upfront (provided the incident is covered as per the policy wording, of course).
-
Do you have a list of doctors/dentist so I know where to go in case something happens and make sure I’m covered?
We don't publish a list of doctors or dentists. If you need help finding one, call our assistance teams, and they'll guide to the most appropriate medical professional.
-
Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed to cover emergency medical expenses from accidents or unexpected illness overseas. They don't stand in place of primary medical insurance or government healthcare.
Travel Insurance for 150+ Adventure Sports and Activities
Travel insurance designed for adventures while traveling.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
For information relating to policies purchased before 27 June 2024, please check HERE for the list of covered activities.
For policies purchased from 27 June 2024, please see below for information:
Adventure Sports and Activities
For many travellers, one of the most exciting parts of planning an overseas holiday is deciding what activities and sports to play during their trip. Overseas holidays present the perfect chance to indulge in all your favourite sports; or try a new adrenaline pumping activity that you don’t get to do back home in the UK.
No matter whether you’re packing your cricket bat or that expensive pair of hiking boots, it might be worth considering travel insurance when preparing for your trip.
- Adventure sports, travel insurance and what’s covered by our plans
- What activities are covered?
- What’s not covered
- Questions to ask when choosing a plan
- List of Adventure, sport and activities covered
Adventure sports, travel insurance and what’s covered by our plans
Whether you’re picking up a new sport or you’re a seasoned outdoors adventure person, World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) for the following:
Activities and sports cover: travel and adventure go hand-in-hand, that’s why our policies offer cover more than 150 sports, experiences, and activities. While some activities are considered less dangerous, other types of activities such as rock climbing (outdoor) require an insurance upgrade and an additional premium.
Emergency medical and evacuation coverage – if you suddenly become sick or injured at any time during your holiday, seek medical assistance straight away. Contact our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance team to advise them of your situation and sort out any further care requirements. They can contact the hospital where you’re staying to arrange payment for your accommodation, treatment, and medications. We may also cover the cost of your repatriation back to the UK if your injury or illness is serious enough, in our doctor's opinion. Exclusions, and in some cases excesses, do apply. These medical transport and repatriation benefits are payable, subject to our approval, for up to a maximum of 12 months from the date the sudden illness first manifested or the injury happened.
Baggage and personal belongings coverage – if any of your luggage or personal items are lost, stolen or damaged, then you may be covered for the costs of replacing these. Make sure you have your receipts as you will need to submit these when you claim. Always report any stolen belongings to the local police within 48 hours and request a police report. If there were any witnesses to the incident, then ask them to accompany you to the police station to give their statement. Witness statements should be included with your other supporting documentation.
Extended stays – if you’re having the time of your life on holiday and don’t want to return home to the UK just yet, then you may extend your Single Trip travel insurance policy subject to meeting residential eligibility requirements. Extensions can be approved for up to a maximum of 12 months from the starting date listed on your policy certificate. Applications for policy extensions must be made prior to 11:59pm GMT/BST on the date that your existing policy expires, however we suggest not waiting to the last day to submit your request.
Trip cancellation costs – few things in life are more disappointing than having to cancel a long-awaited holiday due to unexpected sickness or a last-minute injury. Should you or one of your travel companions become injured or sick after making your holiday arrangements, and need to cancel your trip, then we may cover your non-refundable travel expenses such as accommodation and flights. You will need to provide medical evidence to substantiate your claim.
What activities are covered?
While many Brits live and breathe their football and cricket, we also know that our travellers have a vast range of sporting preferences. That’s why we offer cover for over 150 different sports, activities, and experiences. While the list is long, by no means do we cover every single sport or activity.
Always make sure that any planned sports and activities that you’ll be doing are clearly stated. If you’re injured playing a sport that is not listed in your Policy Wording, then any claim you submit, may not be approved.
World Nomads offers two travel insurance plans, the Standard Plan and the Explorer Plan. These plans both offer cover for expenses in connection with hospitalisation, lost luggage, repatriation, and more. However, the Explorer Plan costs more than the Standard Plan as it offers higher policy limits and more benefits.
Note: When travelling to Nepal, select Nepal from the countries list to make sure you are buying the correct cover.
Always read through the Policy Wording to decide which plan is best suited for the activities and sports that you have planned. If you’re not sure if something you’re planning on doing while on holiday is covered, please contact us.
What level of sports and activity cover do I get?
Our travel insurance plans categorise sports and leisure activities into four separate levels. Travellers are covered for all sports and activities listed under the level of cover they select, as well as those leisure pursuits assigned to any lower levels. The following is just a small selection of the sports we cover. Please check below for the full list of sports and activities we cover.
Level 1
- Camping (to a maximum of 3,000 metres)
- Cricket
- Dance (ballet, ballroom, capoeira, salsa, and interpretive dance)
- Roller skating
Level 2
- Rock climbing (outdoor)
- Rugby (League/Union)
- Running (up to marathon distance)
- Water skiing (barefoot)
Level 3
- Mountain biking (downhill)
- Skiing/snowboarding (includes cross country, Nordic on marked trails)
Level 4
- Skiing/snowboarding (terrain park in resort; outside resort boundaries; back country; helicopter/snow; alpine touring)
- Snow rafting
- Mountaineering (to a maximum of 6,000 metres)
- Hiking (to a maximum of 6,000 metres)
- Triathlon (full distance)
Travel insurance tip 1: several of our covered activities or sports are listed on multiple levels to reflect the varying degrees of difficulty or intensity. Always check before you go that you have the right level of cover for your desired activities, as you cannot upgrade to a higher level or add any other sports, after your trip has begun.
What’s not covered
Here are just a few of our travel insurance exclusions. For the entire list, please check your Policy Wording.
- If your behaviour was reckless, or your actions were in violation of the laws of that country.
- Being intoxicated by alcohol or prohibited substances.
- Unattended belongings and luggage that is stolen, lost, or damaged.
- Pre-existing medical conditions unless otherwise expressly stated in your policy.
- Dental treatment that is not undertaken to alleviate any constant pain or discomfort. An example could be an implant procedure to replace a tooth that had been extracted in a surgery that you had years ago.
Questions to ask when choosing a plan
Before selecting a plan, it’s best to know what types of sports and activities you and your travel buddies will be enjoying when you’re overseas. These are just some of the questions for you to consider when picking a travel insurance plan:
- What sports and activities will I be engaging in on my holiday?
- What sports and activities do my friends have planned? Make sure you ask them about their holiday plans to be certain that they don’t have any surprise activities up their sleeves. A spur of the moment decision to play a sport that you’re not covered for might be fun, but would you really want to take such a risk?
- What types of equipment, footwear, or protective clothing will you need for your preferred activities?
- Do you need a licensed tour guide or instructor for any of your leisure activities? If so, have you checked that the person is in fact certified?
- What are the depths of my dives, altitudes of my hikes, or distances of my competitions? These types of details all need to be established before choosing your plan.
Travel insurance tip 2: Where urgent medical assistance is required, get in touch with our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance Team as soon as reasonably possible before incurring medical costs. For more information on what to do please refer to the section titled, ‘Health conditions & your policy’ in your Policy Wording.
Overseas activity tips to help you have a safer experience
Are you fit enough for that?
Overseas holidays offer a selection of leisure activities, many of which you may not have ever tried. Before you go trying new experiences, think about your fitness and plan your activities accordingly. Whatever you’re planning, make sure it’s something you’re physically capable of.
The right gear
When participating in a sport or activity, always wear safety gear. For example, wear a helmet when cycling or riding a horse. Before embarking on that mountain climbing adventure, ask yourself if you have the right equipment required for such an undertaking.
Your activity operator should be certified/accredited
Make sure operators are certified and/or accredited by the appropriate body. For example, diving instructors should be registered with the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI).
Keep a watch on your sporting equipment
Nothing beats the feeling of elation that comes from being victorious in a game of sport. Yet before you rush off to hit the bar with your teammates, it’s a good idea to lock up any sporting equipment first. All too often valuable sporting gear and bags are left unattended or even worse, forgotten about.
Opportunistic thieves can take advantage of these situations. No matter how safe you think your sporting gear is, never leave it unattended. If you can’t take your equipment with you or back to your hotel, then place it in a locker or keep it locked in a room.
This is a summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the plans described. Please refer to the Policy Wording for complete details of cover and exclusions. If you are unsure of your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.
Get a quote today and find out if our policies are right for you.
World Nomads covers more than 150 activities and sports, and if it’s not on the list you can contact us and we’ll let you know if we’ll cover it. You can read more about coverage for some specific activities to see the activities covered by the plans available to you.
We offer cover for:
- 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance
- Overseas emergency medical expenses
- Cancellation
- Baggage
Important information
-
List of Adventure, Sport and Activities covered
Adventure, Sport and Activities
List of Activities covered; including Level 2, 3 and 4 Upgrades:
UPGRADE FOR LEVELS 2, 3, 4 ACTIVITIES
Adventure, sport, work, study and volunteer activities
Level
Special Conditions that apply
Special Exclusions that apply
Abseiling (rappelling, rapping, rap jumping, deepelling, abbing)
1
(a)
(iv)
Aerial safari
1
(a)
(iv)
Aerobics
1
Athletics
1
Badminton
1
Ballet
1
Banana boat rides
1
(a)
Baseball
1
Basketball
1
Biking (see Cycling, Mountain biking)
-
Black water rafting (Cave tubing) (grades 1-3)
1
(a)
(iv)
Boating (inland and coastal waters); see also Speed boating and Sailing
1
(a) or (b)
Excludes: white water; (v)
Boating (outside coastal waters); see also Speed boating, and Sailing
2
(a) or (b) and (c)
(iv); (v)
Bowling / Bowls / Pétanque / Boules
1
Boxing (gym or outdoor training)
2
Excludes competition, bouts
Bungee/Bungy jumping
2
(a)
Camel riding (day tour)
1
(a)
(v)
Camel trekking (overnight/main mode of transport)
2
(a)
(v)
Camogie
2
A helmet must be worn.
(iv); (v)
Camping up to 3,000 metres (see also Hiking, and Mountaineering)
1
Camping up to 4,500 metres (see also Hiking, and Mountaineering)
2
Camping up to 6,000 metres (see also Hiking, and Mountaineering)
4
Caving (sightseeing/tourist attraction/recreational only)
1
(a)
Excludes: where ropes, picks or other specialist climbing equipment is required
Cheerleading
1
Clay pigeon shooting
1
(a) or (b)
(v)
Cricket
1
Cruising (cruise ship)
1
Curling
1
Cycling/Biking (incidental to the trip)
1
(v)
Cycling (independent cycle touring)
3
(v)
Cycling (on an organised tour)
2
(a)
(v)
Dance (ballet, ballroom, capoeira, salsa, interpretive dance)
1
Darts
1
Dogsledding / Sleigh rides (horse drawn): on recognised trails
1
(a)
Excludes: remote areas; racing; time trials; endurance events
Dragon boating (inland or coastal waters only)
1
Elephant riding
1
(a)
Elephant riding (overnight/main mode of transport)
2
(a)
(v)
Fishing/Angling (ice)
1
(a) or (b)
Fishing (inland or coastal waters): sports / leisure only
1
Fishing (outside coastal waters, deep sea fishing): sports / leisure only
2
(a) or (b); and (c)
Fitness training
1
Flag football / rugby / soccer / gridiron: non-contact
1
Flying (as a fare paying passenger in a licensed scheduled or chartered aircraft or helicopter)
1
(a)
Football (Gaelic football)
2
(iv)
Football (Soccer) including 5 a side
1
Frisbee / Ultimate Frisbee
1
Glacier walking / Ice walking
2
(a)
Go karting
1
(a)
(v)
Golf
1
Gym training (aerobics, spinning, Zumba, body pump, weight training, cross training, cross fit) (See also Boxing, and Martial arts)
1
Excludes power lifting
Gymnastics
1
Handball / Tchoukball
1
Hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking: up to 3,000 metres, on recognised routes
1
Hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking: up to 4,500 metres, on recognised routes
2
Hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking: up to 6,000 metres, on recognised routes
4
Hockey
1
Horse riding (leisure/social /non-competitive riding)
1
(a); a helmet must be worn
Excludes: hunting; (v)
Hot air ballooning (ballooning) as passenger only
1
(a)
(v)
Hurling
2
A helmet must be worn
(iv); (v)
Hydro foiling / Kite foiling
1
(a) or (b)
Excludes: jumping; (v)
Ice skating (indoor); excludes ice hockey
1
Ice skating (outdoor) on a commercially managed rink; excludes ice hockey
1
(a)
Jet boating: as a passenger, inland / coastal waters only
1
(a)
Jet skiing: inland / coastal waters, grades 1-2 only
2
(a) or (b)
(v)
Kayaking / Canoeing / Sea kayaking / Sea canoeing: inland/coastal waters, grades 1-3 only
1
Kite boarding / Kite surfing (on land or water); land surfing
2
(v)
Kite buggy
2
(v)
Kite flying
1
Lacrosse
1
LARP (Live action role play)
1
Excludes: battle re-enactments; (v)
Martial arts (Judo & Karate only)
2
(a)
(iv) (v)
Martial arts training (non-contact)
1
Moped riding/Scooter biking on road under 125cc
2
(b); a helmet must be worn
(v)
Motor racing experience (passenger only)
1
(a)
Motorbiking on road under 125cc, including pillion
2
(b); a helmet must be worn
(v)
Mountain biking - downhill (using downhill trails and/or mechanical lifts)
3
(v)
Mountain biking - general (off road/cross country)
1
(v)
Mountaineering to 6,000 metres (with ropes, picks or specialist climbing equipment)
4
Do not venture into any area without taking local advice and appropriate rescue equipment.
(iii) (iv)
Netball / Korfball
1
Orienteering
1
Outdoor endurance course / obstacle course / assault course / trim trail / tough mudder: up to 3 miles
1
Outdoor endurance course / obstacle course / assault course / trim trail / tough mudder: up to 8 miles
3
Outrigger canoeing (inland or coastal waters only)
2
Outward Bound, up to 3,000 metres
1
(a)
Paint balling/Airsoft
1
(a) or (b)
(v)
Parasailing: over water only
1
(a) or (b)
(iv) (v)
Rambling. See Hiking if above 3,000 metres
1
Rifle range/sports shooting
1
(a) or (b)
(v)
River boarding / Hydro speeding (grades 1-3); see also Canoeing.
1
(a)
Rock climbing (indoor)
1
(v)
Rock climbing: outdoor / traditional / bouldering / sport climbing / bolted / aid climbing / free climbing; see also Mountaineering
2
(iv)
Rollerblading / Roller Skating / In-line skating
1
Rowing / Sculling (inland/coastal waters)
1
Excludes: white water rowing; (v)
Rugby (League/Union)
2
(iv) (v)
Running, up to marathon distance; racing exclusion doesn't apply
2
Running/jogging: half marathon distance or less; racing exclusion doesn't apply
1
Safari tours
1
(a)
Excludes: firearms; handling and/or work with dangerous animals; e.g. big cats, crocodiles, alligators, snakes, elephants etc.
Sail boarding (see wind surfing)
Sailing / Yachting (inland/coastal waters)
1
(a) or (b)
(v)
Sailing / Yachting (outside coastal waters)
2
(a) or (b); and (c)
(v)
Sandboarding / Sand skiing
2
(v)
Scuba diving, including Shark cage diving; to 30 metres
1
(e)
Excludes: free diving; cliff diving; (ii)
Scuba diving (unqualified/learn to dive course/discover dive with qualified instructor)
1
(a)
Excludes: free diving; cliff diving; (ii)
Segway tours
1
(a); a helmet must be worn, safety gear
(iv) (v)
Skateboarding (ramp, half pipe, skate park, street)
1
a helmet must be worn, safety gear
Skiing (cross country/Nordic skiing on marked trails)
3
(d)
(i)
Skiing (snowblading)
3
(d)
(i)
Skiing / Snowboarding
3
(d)
(i)
Skiing / Snowboarding: (backcountry/outside of resort boundary/alpine ski touring)
4
(d)
(i) (iv)
Skiing / Snowboarding: (by helicopter/snow cat)
4
(d)
(i) (iv)
Skiing / Snowboarding: (dry slope)
3
(d)
(i)
Skiing / Snowboarding: (terrain park within resort)
4
(d)
(i) (iv)
Skydiving/Parachuting (tandem jumps only)
4
(a) or (b)
(iv) (v)
Sledding / Tobogganing / Snow sleds / Snow sleighs (on snow)
3
(iv) (v)
Snooker
1
Snorkelling
1
Snow rafting / Tubing on snow
4
(a)
(iv) (v)
Softball / Rounders
1
Spearfishing
2
(v)
Speed boating, passenger only: inland/coastal waters only
1
(a)
Squash / Racquetball
1
Stand up paddle surfing/paddle boarding
1
Surfing
2
Swimming (pool; enclosed, inland or coastal waters only)
1
Swimming with whales/whale sharks (inside or outside coastal waters)
1
(a)
Table tennis
1
Tennis / Pickleball
1
Theme parks / Fairgrounds
1
(a)
Trampolining
1
Triathlon up to full distance / Ironman; racing exclusion doesn't apply
4
Triathlon up to middle distance; racing exclusion doesn't apply
2
Triathlon up to sprint distance; racing exclusion doesn't apply
1
Tubing on rivers (grades 1-2 only)
1
(a)
(iv)
Tuk Tuk (as a passenger)
1
(a)
Via Ferrata
2
Volleyball
1
Water skiing / Wake skating / Wakeboarding
1
(a) or (b)
Excludes: jumping; (v)
Walking (see Hiking)
War games (online gaming)
1
War games/military simulation (see Paint balling/airsoft OR Rifle range/sports shooting)
Water polo
1
Water skiing (barefoot)
2
(a) or (b)
Excludes: jumping; (v)
Weight training (see also Gym training)
1
Excludes powerlifting.
White water rafting (grades 1-3)
1
(a)
Windsurfing / Sailboarding (inland or coastal waters only)
1
(v)
Working: professional, clerical or administrative work; working as a classroom teacher, classroom assistant; au pair, nanny or child minder.
1
(v)
Working: retail, bar or hospitality work involving light duties only.
1
(v)
Working: general work and manual work not involving the use of mechanical or industrial machinery, and not working at a height exceeding 2 metres above ground level.
2
(v)
Yoga
1
Zip line
1
(a)
Zorbing
2
(a)
(iv) (v)
-
General Conditions - which apply to all covered activities
We are unable to provide cover for anyone participating in any sport or activity if you are participating in or training:
- For a competition or a tournament at a national level (and where otherwise excluded).
- On a professional or semi-professional basis.
- Water based activities outside coastal waters, except where listed with the covered activity.
- Water based activities on white or black water above grade 3.
- At an altitude between 3,000 and 6,000 metres unless the activity is selected and the additional premium for the Upgrade is paid at time of policy purchase. (No cover is available for activities over 6,000 metres.)
- For any adventure, sport, study, work or volunteer activity listed under Adventure, Sports and Activities Not Covered.
Where noted in the List of Activities at
- UK - https://www.worldnomads.com/uk/travel-insurance/whats-covered/adventure-sports-and-activities
- IE - https://www.worldnomads.com/ie/travel-insurance/whats-covered/adventure-sports-and-activities
- EU - https://www.worldnomads.com/eu/travel-insurance/whats-covered/adventure-sports-and-activities
the following Special Conditions and Special Exclusions apply to some activities in addition to all other policy terms, conditions and exclusions.
-
Special Conditions
Special Conditions:
- You must be with a professional, qualified and licensed guide, instructor or operator.
- You must have the appropriate certification or licence to participate in this sport, activity or experience at home. If operating a motor vehicle, you must have the appropriate valid UK licence for the vehicle and any other licence required by law in the country of operation.
- You must stay within 60 miles of a safe haven (a protected body of water used by marine craft for refuge from storms or heavy seas).
- This policy covers conventional skiing/snowboarding only. It is not a condition of cover that you ski or snowboard with a guide, however, you must follow the International Ski Federation code or the resort regulations; and you should not venture into back country areas without taking local advice and appropriate rescue equipment.
- This policy covers conventional scuba diving only. You are limited to your current qualification limit, unless accompanied by a qualified instructor, taking part in a recognised course requirement of your chosen Diving Association. You must hold a current P.A.D.I. (Professional Association of Diving Instructors), B.S.A.C. (British Sub Aqua Club), SAA (Sub Aqua Association), C.M.A.S. (Confederation Mondiale Des Activites Subaquatiques), or equivalent internationally recognised qualification and follow their relevant Association, Club or Confederation rules and guidelines at all times, or you must only dive under the constant supervision of a properly licensed Diving Instructor and follow their rules and instructions at all times.
-
Special Exclusions
There is no cover for:
- Any competition, free-style skiing/snowboarding, ski/snowboard jumping, ski-flying, ski/snowboard acrobatics, ski/snowboard stunting, or ski/snowboard racing or national squad training, the use of skeletons.
- Any unaccompanied dive, any dive in overhead environments, any dive for gain or reward, solo diving, cave diving, any dive which takes you deeper than your current qualification limits, or any dive deeper than 30 metres under any circumstances.
- Free mountaineering, climbing in remote or inaccessible regions, exploratory expeditions and new routes, high altitude climbing over 6,000 metres, mountaineering expeditions, or expeditions to the Arctic or Antarctica or of a dangerous nature.
- Personal Accident (Section 10 cover excluded)
- Personal Liability (Section 10 cover excluded)
-
Definitions
Work; working: any work, including volunteer work, work placements, incidental work and work experience, whether paid or unpaid, which can be classified as either:
- Non-manual work, which is any professional, clerical or administrative work involving light duties only, including for example a classroom teacher or assistant, au pair, nanny or child minder; or
- Manual work, which is general work other than non-manual work. Manual work includes for example general cleaning, maintenance, bartending, WWOOFing (participating in World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) and general farmhand activities.
Level 1 activities in the List of Activities are automatically covered. Your policy can be upgraded to include cover for Level 2, 3 and 4 adventure, sport, work, study and volunteer activities when you select the activity(ies) and pay the additional premium. All activities are subject to the General Conditions:
-
List of Activities NOT Covered under any level
- Acrobatics
- Activities at a professional or semi-professional level
- American football (Gridiron)
- Base jumping; Wingsuit
- Boating on white water
- Bobsled/Bobsleigh
- Boxing competitions or bouts
- Canyoning
- Caving/spelunking: other than sightseeing or tourist attraction
- Cliff diving
- Climbing: exploratory expeditions, new routes, remote or inaccessible regions
- Climbing: high altitude, over 6,000 metres
- Competing; competing at international events as national representative
- Crewing a vessel over 60 miles from a safe haven
- Cycling/biking: intercontinental touring, with a tour operator or independent
- Cycle jumping / BMX / racing / time trial
- Diving/scuba diving: unaccompanied dive / in overhead environments / for gain or reward
- Dogsledding / Sleigh rides (horse drawn): remote areas / racing / time trials / endurance events / on unrecognised trails
- Electronic scootering
- Expeditions to the Arctic / to Antarctica / of a dangerous nature
- Extreme pursuits / Hazardous activities (other than listed)
- Fishing/angling: commercially / rock fishing
- Flying: gliding / ultralight / private light aircraft / stunt flying
- Free Mountaineering
- Free-style skiing / Free-style snowboarding
- Hang gliding
- High diving
- Hiking / trekking / rambling / bushwalking / fell walking / fell running: where ropes, picks or other specialist climbing equipment is required.
- Horse riding (equestrian, dressage, show jumping, eventing)
- Horse riding: racing / jumping / competing
- Hunting
- Ice climbing
- Ice hockey
- Kite wing (land, water, snow)
- Martial arts competitions or bouts
- Moped riding / Motorbiking: touring, or mode of transport to / from home
- Moped riding / Motorbiking over 125cc
- Motorbiking / Trail biking: off-road
- Motor sports
- Mountaineering expeditions
- Outdoor endurance course / obstacle course / assault course / trim trail / tough mudder: over 8 miles
- Paragliding / parapenting / parascending
- Potholing
- Quad biking / ATVs / Dune buggy
- Rock climbing: soloing
- Rollerblading, roller skating and in-line skating stunting / roller derby / roller hockey
- Running: over marathon distance
- Scuba diving / cage diving: deeper than 30 metres
- Skeleton
- Skiing / Snowboarding: (jumping / stunting / ski-flying / acrobatics)
- Skiing / Snowboarding: (racing / competition / national squad training)
- Snowmobiling / Snow kiting / Snow biking
- Speed boating outside coastal waters
- Speed trials
- Work: offshore / underground, including as a guide
- Work: with mechanical / industrial machinery
- Work: with dangerous animals; e.g. big cats, crocodiles, alligators, sharks, snakes, elephants, etc.
- Work as instructor or guide: diving / skiing/ snowboarding / underground, in caves / where ropes or other specialist climbing equipment is required.
- Work: dangerous or extreme pursuits
- Work: at height from 2 metres above ground level
I bit on something hard
A bone chipped my front tooth, on the top row, and cracked it. Blood started to run down so I had an emergency visit to the dentist to repair it.
B.P. U.S Resident in South Africa.
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)
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 teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about adventure activities and sports insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
-
Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what’s happened! If it’s an emergency situation where hospital admission and/or medical evacuation is required, the insurer covers these costs upfront (provided the incident is covered as per the policy wording, of course).
-
Do you have a list of doctors/dentist so I know where to go in case something happens and make sure I’m covered?
We don't publish a list of doctors or dentists. If you need help finding one, call our assistance teams, and they'll guide to the most appropriate medical professional.
-
Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed for accidents or unexpected illness overseas. They don't stand in place of primary medical insurance or government healthcare.
Travel insurance when visiting Great Britain
What to know when planning your British getaway.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Ahh, Great Britain - home to the British royals, countless unique castles, stunning scenery, and a rich history which spans from Stonehenge to Shakespeare and beyond. Before you book your trip to visit Great Britain, you may want to consider travel insurance, so the only drama is on stage with the actors.
- Lost or delayed baggage cover
- Overseas medical insurance and cover for Coronavirus-related events
- Access to our Emergency Assistance Team around the clock
- Cover for activities and sports when in Great Britain
When planning a trip in and around the UK the most common issues Irish travellers may face are lost or delayed luggage, or unexpected medical issues. And now you can add Coronavirus to the list of common issues that travellers are dealing with.
What should I look out for when traveling to Great Britain?
Lost, stolen or delayed baggage cover
It can throw a massive spanner in the works to arrive at Heathrow and find yourself alone at the baggage carousel, watching it go around waiting for your bags to appear. You could also get your gear stolen on public transport or from your accommodation, which is why baggage insurance should be considered.
World Nomads may offer cover (up to the policy limits) for loss, theft or damage to baggage or personal items depending on your specific situation, see below:
- Bags stolen or damaged: as soon as you’ve realised your bags have been stolen or damaged please report it to the relevant authority (carrier, tour operator, accommodation provider). In the case of a theft, you’ll also need to report it to the local police or relevant authority, as theft is a crime. Insurance won’t cover things such as losing bags or valuables that were left unattended; this includes if they were left unattended in a car (even if the car is locked). Remember to always keep originals or copies of your receipts if you need to make a claim.
- Bags delayed: you may be covered if your bags were lost in transit. You’ll need to report the incident and get a Property Irregularity Report or a similar official report in writing and make a claim directly with the carrier first. You may be able to claim your expenses for any essentials you have to buy to keep you going until your bag turns up. You must get copies of all written reports, luggage checks and tickets, travel documentation and all correspondence with the carrier or service provider if you need to make a claim.
You may also need to take depreciation into account and some policies, depending on the plan you purchase, may also have an excess applicable to any claim made. Details on how depreciation works can be found in your policy.
Overseas medical insurance and cover for Coronavirus-related events
When traveling around Great Britain, you should consider medical insurance in case of an accident or sudden illness. You don’t want to be left out of pocket if you have to visit a local doctor, go to hospital, need an urgent trip to the dentist, or even worse, have to be repatriated back to Ireland.
With Coronavirus causing travel disruptions globally it’s also important that you follow any Irish Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and UK government guidelines while in the UK. It’s always a good idea to wear a face mask when visiting any of the UK’s popular hotspots, even in open-air places such as Stonehenge, London’s parks and palace grounds, or when strolling through the bustling streets of Edinburgh.
The level of cover you’ll have for any Coronavirus-related events under our Standard and Explorer plans will depend on the plan you choose. Check out our Travel Insurance cover for Coronavirus article which goes into more detail on all the benefits, including benefit limits, terms and conditions, and exclusions.
Access to our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team around the clock
Dealing with a medical emergency can be frightening and confusing, but you don’t have to go through this experience on your own. Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team can direct you to nearby appropriate care, talk to doctors, help out with admin and arrange for payment of expenses if necessary. If your situation is life-threatening, seek medical help immediately and let us know when you can so we can help with medical assistance and keeping your friends and family informed.
Cover for activities and sports when in Great Britain
If you’re looking to get your adrenaline levels up and you go hiking in Snowdonia, or camp and mountain bike in the Scottish Highlands, World Nomads offers travel insurance cover for 150+ activities and sports. Please check your Policy Wording when choosing any activities or sports as you may need to upgrade the policy and sporting level to ensure you’re covered for everything you plan to do.
Are you looking for more travel inspiration for Great Britain? World Nomads has various articles that cover a range of fun topics on Great Britain or check out our articles if you need the latest safety travel alerts.
This is not a full list of what’s covered and what’s not covered. Please check your Policy Wording for a full list of terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions that may apply to your specific plan. If you are unsure of your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.
Did you know travel insurance can cover...
- Trip cancellation
- Emergency medical
- Evacuation and repatriation
- Lost or damaged gear
- Delayed baggage
- Death overseas
- Terrorism
- And more...
You can also buy away from home or buy more cover if you extend your trip. Plus, you can claim online anytime, anywhere in the world.
Travel insurance tip 1
Never leave your bags and valuables out of your sight and reach. Try and carry your portable electronic devices (tablets, laptops, photographic and video equipment, mobile phones and other hand-held devices), jewellry, specified high value items, travel documents, cash and credit cards with you at all times. If you can’t, then leave them in a secure place such as a locked safe. Remember that if you buy anything, before or during your trip, to keep all receipts.
Travel insurance tip 2
The UK’s withdrawal from the European Union (EU) has not affected the rights of Irish citizens within the Common Travel Area. The right to live, work and access public services in the Common Travel Area is protected. Your Common Travel Area rights do not extend to your family. This means that if your spouse or partner, or other relative, is not an Irish or UK citizen, they may have to apply for residence in the UK.
Travel insurance tip 3
In some parts of the UK (including Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland) signage, including road signs, are written in the local Gaelic, Welsh or Irish language. However, English is still widely spoken and it is relatively easy to find medical assistance.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Been made redundant?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
True Claims Stories
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel insurance when visiting Hawaii
Stunning scenery, top surf spots, mountainous rainforests, and a laid back lifestyle. Say Aloha to Hawaii!
- As featured in:
As featured in:
From mountainous rainforests and volcanic calderas to its dramatic coastline and iconic surf beaches, Hawaii is great for travellers looking for adventure and relaxation.
Whether you’re looking to get some sun and pure relaxation or aiming for thrills and seek an action-packed adventure, it’s important to choose the right level of coverage. Read the policy wording, browse the World Nomads’ Help Centre, or contact our customer service team to see if what you’re planning to do is covered under your plan.
- What am I covered for?
- Coverage if bags are stolen, damaged or delayed when visiting Hawaii
- What to look out for when travelling around Hawaii?
- Do I need any documents when travelling to Hawaii?
- What's not covered?
What am I covered for?
The USA’s 50th state is a safe and friendly place but the unexpected can still happen. Travel insurance can help if your bags are lost or stolen, if your transport is delayed or if you suffer an injury that lands you in hospital.
World Nomads offers coverage (up to the policy limits) for:
- Emergency overseas medical: the surfing in Hawaii is impressive but not if it ends in an accident. Emergency medical coverage can help when you need urgent medical treatment. Get to a doctor for treatment and medication and you can submit a claim to recover the costs (up to your benefit limit).
- Evacuation: the mountain hikes on Oahu might take you far away from medical facilities. With our coverage, you can get transported to the medical facility best for your care, subject to approval from us.
- Activities cover: we cover more than 150 sports and adventure activities, from ocean kayaking to mountain biking the forest trails on Maui. If your favourite sport isn’t on the list get in touch with our Customer Assistance Team and they will let you know if we cover it. An upgrade for certain activities and sports may be required.
- Trip cancellation: has a sick or injured traveling buddy put a stop to your tropical adventure? Depending on your plan, you may be able to recover your travel expenses.
If you’ve already arrived in Hawaii and you forgot to buy travel insurance before leaving New Zealand, don’t panic. You can visit the World Nomads website at any time of the day or night and purchase a policy.
Coverage if bags are stolen, damaged or delayed when visiting Hawaii
Baggage that’s been delayed, lost or stolen is never a fun thing to deal with when travelling. If you’ve arrived in Honolulu but your bags haven’t or if they’ve been damaged or stolen on public transport, World Nomads baggage insurance can offer you cover for:
- Bags stolen or damaged: as soon as you’ve realised your bags have been stolen or damaged please report it to the relevant authority (carrier, tour operator, accommodation provider). You’ll need their Property Irregularity Report or similar to submit with your claim as well as a police report if stolen. You may be able to get compensation from the transport carrier if your bags were lost in transit and you’ll need to show you’ve attempted this if you decide to put in a claim. Where there is no compensation by the carrier, there is cover for the value of your belongings after allowing for wear, tear and depreciation.
- Bags delayed: if your checked-in baggage is delayed for more than 12 hours, there is cover to replace those essential items and toiletries while you wait for your bags to arrive.
What to look out for when travelling to Hawaii?
If you want to visit historic Pearl Harbour on Oahu and also tackle Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii Island, you’ll have flights and transports to navigate between islands.
While mostly idyllic, sometimes Hawaii experiences severe weather, flash flooding and volcanic activity. If adverse weather affects your connecting transport, or a natural disaster occurs and you cannot use your booked accommodation, you may be covered for the related expenses to find other transport or accommodation.
Hawaii offers plenty of ocean-based activities like windsurfing, scuba diving or kayaking. But you don’t want to be left out of pocket if you have an accident and need medical help or even worse, if you have to be repatriated back home to New Zealand.
For injuries where treatment costs are not expected to exceed NZD$2,000, you can submit your receipts for reimbursement. If you are hospitalised or if your treatment expenses as an outpatient are likely to go above NZD$2,000, you must call our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team first to confirm cover and they will liaise with the hospital on your behalf to arrange payments.
There are many outdoor activities, sports, and experiences that are automatically covered and available on the Standard Plan. But, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can upgrade your level of cover for adventure sports and activities.
Do I need any documents when travelling to Hawaii?
You may need to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) travel authorization system when travelling to Hawaii. The ESTA is an automated system that assists in determining eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security risk. Upon completion of an ESTA application, a traveller is notified of his or her eligibility to travel to the United States under the VWP.
Please refer to the ESTA website to confirm your visa requirements as they are subject to change.
Our travel insurance plans include emergency medical and repatriation cover if you get sick with Coronavirus while travelling (benefit limits apply and vary between plans). It’s always a good idea to wear a face mask when visiting any of Hawaii’s popular hotspots but if you do get sick, contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team so they can help direct you to local medical facilities if needed and help you understand your options.
Our Explorer Plan also has a Coronavirus Travel Costs benefit for certain events. You can check out our Coronavirus cover article which has all of the details, including terms and conditions, benefit limits and exclusions.
What's not covered?
Travel insurance is not designed to cover everything. Some things we don’t cover include:
- Unattended baggage or personal items, including any items left in a locked car overnight.
- Any existing medical conditions which are not listed as an automatically covered pre-existing medical condition as per your Policy Document. Check your Policy Document carefully.
- If you do not use a professional, qualified and licensed guide and operator for activities where required.
- If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or what we or the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team advise you to do.
- The policy excess per person per insured event where applicable (check the Summary of Benefits in your Policy Document).
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.
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance. Featuring coverage for more than 150 activities, you can get a quote, claim, or extend your policy online at www.worldnomads.com. All the information we provide about travel insurance is a brief summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the travel insurance plans described. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.
Travel insurance tip: never leave your bags and valuables out of your sight and reach. Try and carry your portable electronic devices, jewellery, specified high value items, travel documents, cash and credit cards with you at all times. If you can’t, leave them in a secure place such as a locked safe. If you buy anything, before or during your trip, remember to keep all receipts.
Traveller tip: the Pacific Ocean can be dangerous, especially around Kauai. Check the daily ocean report before choosing which beach to visit.
Travel insurance tip: to avoid any surprises when making a claim, it’s a smart idea to become familiar with the various limits, benefits, available upgrades, terms and conditions before you buy a policy.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Been made redundant?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel insurance when visiting Hawaii
Stunning scenery, top surf spots, mountainous rainforests, and a laid back lifestyle. Say Aloha to Hawaii!
- As featured in:
As featured in:
There’s so much more to Hawaii than its world-renowned surfing and tropical beaches, including dramatic scenery and untouched rainforests. Take in the views from a helicopter or try scouting for humpback whales in an outrigger canoe, but no matter what you have planned, it might be worth considering travel insurance.
- What am I covered for?
- Why should I consider travel insurance when visiting Hawaii
- What to look out for when travelling around Hawaii
- Do I need any documents when travelling to Hawaii
- What's not covered?
What am I covered for?
The USA’s 50th state is a safe and friendly place but the unexpected can still happen. Travel insurance can help if your bags are lost or stolen, if your transport is delayed or if you suffer an injury that lands you in hospital.
World Nomads offers coverage (up to the policy limits) for:
- Emergency overseas medical: the surfing in Hawaii is impressive but not if it ends in an accident. Emergency medical coverage can help when you need urgent medical treatment. Get to a doctor for treatment and medication and you can submit a claim to recover the costs (up to your benefit limit).
- Evacuation: the mountain hikes on Oahu might take you far away from medical facilities. With our coverage, you can get transported to the medical facility best for your care, subject to approval from us.
- Activities cover: we cover more than 150 sports and adventure activities, from ocean kayaking to mountain biking the forest trails on Maui. If your favourite sport isn’t on the list get in touch with our Customer Assistance Team and they will let you know if we cover it. An upgrade for certain activities and sports may be required.
- Trip cancellation: has a sick or injured traveling buddy put a stop to your tropical adventure? Depending on your plan, you may be able to recover your travel expenses.
If you’ve already arrived in Hawaii and you forgot to buy travel insurance before leaving Australia, don’t panic. You can visit the World Nomads website at any time of the day or night and purchase a policy.
Why should I consider travel insurance when visiting Hawaii?
We know how much of a pain baggage that’s been delayed, lost or stolen can be while on a holiday. If you’ve arrived in Honolulu but your bags haven’t or if they’ve been damaged or stolen on public transport, World Nomads baggage insurance can offer you cover for:
- Bags stolen or damaged: as soon as you’ve realised your bags have been stolen or damaged please report it to the relevant authority (carrier, tour operator, accommodation provider). You’ll need their Property Irregularity Report or similar to submit with your claim as well as a police report if stolen. You may be able to get compensation from the transport carrier if your bags were lost in transit and you’ll need to show you’ve attempted this if you decide to put in a claim. Where there is no compensation by the carrier, there is cover for the value of your belongings after allowing for wear, tear and depreciation.
- Bags delayed: if your checked-in baggage is delayed for more than 12 hours, there is cover to replace those essential items and toiletries while you wait for your bags to arrive.
What to look out for when travelling around Hawaii?
If you want to visit historic Pearl Harbour on Oahu and also tackle the Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii Island, you’ll have flights and transport to navigate between islands.
While mostly idyllic, sometimes Hawaii experiences severe weather, flash flooding and volcanic activity. If adverse weather affects your connecting transport, or a natural disaster occurs and you cannot use your booked accommodation, you may be covered for the related expenses to find other transport or accommodation.
Hawaii offers plenty of ocean-based activities such as windsurfing, scuba diving or kayaking. But you don’t want to be left out of pocket if you have an accident and need medical help or even worse, if you have to be repatriated back home to Australia.
For injuries where treatment costs are not expected to exceed AUD$2,000, you can submit your receipts for reimbursement. If you are hospitalised or if your treatment expenses as an outpatient are likely to go above AUD$2,000, you must call our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team first to confirm cover and they will liaise with the hospital on your behalf to arrange payments.
There are many outdoor activities, sports, and experiences that are automatically covered and available on the Standard Plan. But, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can upgrade your level of cover for adventure sports and activities.
Do I need any documents when travelling to Hawaii?
You may need to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) travel authorization system when travelling to Hawaii. The ESTA is an automated system that assists in determining eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security risk. Upon completion of an ESTA application, a traveller is notified of his or her eligibility to travel to the United States under the VWP.
Please refer to the ESTA website to confirm your visa requirements as they are subject to change.
Our travel insurance plans include emergency medical and repatriation cover if you get sick with Coronavirus while travelling (benefit limits apply and vary between plans). It’s always a good idea to wear a face mask when visiting any of Hawaii’s popular hotspots but if you do get sick, contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team so they can help direct you to local medical facilities if needed and help you understand your options.
Our Explorer Plan also has a Coronavirus Travel Costs benefit for certain events. You can check out our Coronavirus cover article which has all of the details, including terms and conditions, benefit limits and exclusions.
What's not covered?
Travel insurance is not designed to cover everything. Some things we don’t cover include:
- Unattended baggage or personal items, including any items left in a locked car overnight.
- Any existing medical conditions which are not listed as an automatically covered pre-existing medical condition as per your PDS. Check your PDS carefully.
- If you do not use a professional, qualified and licensed guide and operator for activities where required.
- If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or what we or the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team advise you to do.
- The policy excess per person per insured event where applicable (check the Summary of Benefits in your PDS).
Travel insurance doesn't cover everything. All the information we provide is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions of the plans described. Please carefully read your PDS for a full description of coverage. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance. Featuring coverage for more than 150 activities, you can get a quote, claim, or extend your policy online at www.worldnomads.com. All the information we provide about travel insurance is a brief summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the travel insurance plans described. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.
Travel insurance tip 1: never leave your bags and valuables out of your sight and reach. Try and carry your portable electronic devices, jewellery, specified high value items, travel documents, cash and credit cards with you at all times. If you can’t, leave them in a secure place such as a locked safe. If you buy anything, before or during your trip, remember to keep all receipts.
Travel insurance tip 2: as careful as you might be, belongings do get stolen, flights get cancelled, and illness or injury can happen. If you forgot to buy travel insurance before you left home, then don’t stress, with World Nomads you can buy travel insurance before you get on the plane or while you're already traveling around the Hawaiian Islands, it’s up to you (a waiting period may apply for some benefits).
Travel insurance tip 3: to avoid any surprises when making a claim, it’s a smart idea to become familiar with the various limits, benefits, available upgrades, terms and conditions before you buy a policy.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Been made redundant?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
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 teamWorld Nomads’ top travel tips for eco-conscious travelers
Before you pack your bags and start your journey, make sure you travel with the planet in mind and do so responsibly.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Traveling is a fantastic experience, but wherever you go, you should consider ways of giving back to the people and the places you visit.
World Nomads offers you the chance to give back to communities around the world through a micro-donation whenever you buy travel insurance with us. Through our Footprints Network, travelers have helped us fund more than 250 projects, and raise more than $3 million. We continue to partner with reputable charities and NGOs to ensure your micro-donation goes to the project of your choice.
Whether you want to donate, volunteer, or stay in eco-friendly accommodation, here are some handy travel tips for you to consider when planning your next trip:
- Do your green research before you head off: look for accommodations, destination, products, and tour companies that have been deemed sustainable by a legitimate certifying body. In the sustainable tourism world, that means organizations such as the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, The Rainforest Alliance, and Earth Check.
- Go off-grid or visit less-visited locations: after the pandemic caused a reset of travel, it makes sense to leave the beaten track and create your own path. Visiting places further away from the masses will give you a more authentic experience, and also help to reduce degradation of popular sights. But be aware that the more remote your destination, the more chance there is that these may not be covered if you choose to purchase. Always check if your off-the-grid destination(s) are covered. While we offer cover for more than 100 destinations, we do not offer travel insurance to sanctioned countries, and cover may be affected if you travel to a destination that your government has advised against traveling to. Also, some destinations may not be covered due to violence, terrorism or possibly due to being designated a COVID hotspot.
- Choose from more than 150 activities, sports and experiences: while we do offer cover for more than 150 activities, sports and experiences, we don't cover everything. For example, we do not cover big game hunting or Spain’s running of the bulls. Many activities will have special conditions and exclusions attached to them. Read the policy wording carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport option for your trip. Your policy may have conditions and exclusions.
- Volunteer when abroad: giving back to the places or communities you’re visiting can be a rewarding experience. Volunteerism is on the rise, for example, reforestation, cleaning up beaches, nature trail construction and invasive species management are just some volunteer work examples. With World Nomads, the types of volunteer activities that are covered will depend on your country of residence. Check your plan and policy wording to get more details. For example, you won’t be covered if you intend to work near dangerous animals such as sharks, elephants, big cats, bears, and deadly snakes or if you go against local authority warnings or enter closed or restricted areas or places or situations known to be unsafe or dangerous.
- Immerse yourself in local communities and culture: a big part of traveling is exploring new cultures and environments. So, it goes without saying that you shouldn’t do anything that might endanger or exploit local people or wildlife. Don’t litter, stay on public footpaths and follow local laws and cultures. Help protect the places that you visit by following local customs. Under our policies, you won’t be covered if you cause any physical injury or property damage deliberately or if you cause any damage with intent, malice or gross negligence.
- Airbnb, green resorts or homestay: when traveling, there are many eco-friendly options to choose from depending on your budget. You can stay at an eco-friendly Airbnb rental, at a hostel or hotel or live in a local community, all these options can offer eco-friendly options. When staying at a private vacation rental please remember that illegal activities and any incidents caused by being under the influence of alcohol and drugs are not covered (partying is banned at most vacation rentals). For those who have a higher budget, some resorts have tree-planting and other supporting environmental programs such as a no plastic policy, and using local foods in their restaurants. At the other end of the budget, staying with local families will give you knowledge of local habitats, wildlife, and traditional cultures. Seeking out local experiences such as homestays, and hiring local guides are great ways to learn about a culture, while providing direct economic benefits to the host communities.
- Choose a responsible tour operator: choose a tour operator that promotes responsible tourism, works as part of the local community, and actively helps to conserve the environment. Before you go, ask your travel provider (tour operator, travel agent) about the company’s environmental and responsible tourism policies – support those who support responsible tourism. Look for the Global Sustainable Tourism Council GSTC logo. GSTC is an independent, neutral organization that establishes and monitors global standards for destinations and tourism companies all over the world, and it’s also a great source of information for destinations, accommodation and eco-friendly travel tips.
Note: this is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. There are terms & conditions, exclusions and limits which apply depending on your Country of Residence and the level of cover you’ve chosen, so be sure to read the policy wording before you buy a policy.
What type of eco tourist are you?
According to the United Nations, there are three types: hard ecotourist, soft ecotourist and the adventure ecotourist.
- The hard ecotourist: is motivated primarily by a scientific interest in nature and is interested in bird watching, nature photography, and botanical trips. Sometimes they will take on activities that require strenuous effort and non-hotel accommodations. If you fall into this category you may have the option (depending in your Country of Residence) to upgrade and pay a little extra to increase the cover for any hi tech gear, such as cameras, lenses, and laptops that you're taking with you. You never know when your tech gear could be stolen, lost, or damaged on your travels.
- The soft ecotourist: is the fastest growing segment. This traveler is interested in observing wildlife and participating in local culture. Hiking is a favourite activity, and they are less intense than the hard ecotourist. If you fall into this category, World Nomads offers more than 150 activities, sports and experiences. Coverage varies between our two plans- Standard and Explorer – so it’s important to take the time to understand what activities you are likely to do, and the difference between our plans.
- The adventure ecotourist: engages in moderate to high-risk activities such as surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, wind surfing, whitewater rafting, and rock climbing. These types are the adrenaline all or nothing types looking for a challenge. If you’re looking for more adventure, you can upgrade to the Explorer Plan, which offers higher benefits and cover for a broader range of activities and sports.
Want more of our plan details?
You can compare our Standard and Explorer plans and prices through getting an instant online quote.
Need some extra info on eco travel?
Here are some World Nomads articles for more inspiration and information around sustainable travel practices:
- Community-Based Tourism: living with the locals
- Top 10 tips for environmentally-friendly travel
- How regenerative tourism can make you a better traveler
- Nature Calling? How to keep the places you go pristine
- How to find an ethical safari, camp, and safari wilderness experience
- How to use less plastic when you travel
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance. 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.
VIDEO: How can I give back when I buy my travel insurance?
Learn more about how you can give back to the places you visit with a small donation by watching this video.
True Claims Stories
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?
- Airline lost your gear?
- 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)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTravel insurance when visiting Great Britain
What to know when planning your British getaway.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Savouring a quiet ale in a centuries-old British pub is a time-honoured tradition for Aussies jetting off to the UK. From the drama of West End theatre to the dragon-like mists of the Welsh countryside, this island nation packs a punch that keeps Aussies coming back.
- What's covered
- Lost or delayed baggage cover
- Overseas medical insurance and cover for Coronavirus-related events
- Access to our Emergency Assistance Team around the clock
- Cover for activities and sports when in Great Britain
- What's not covered
What's covered
If you head south for the Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival in Cornwall, which celebrates all things nautical, it could be worth considering travel insurance to help with those unexpected costs if you are struck down with food poisoning or suffer an injury that lands you in hospital.
World Nomads offers cover (up to the policy limits) for:
- Overseas emergency medical: The charms of the UK can’t prevent life’s surprises. You can submit a claim to recover unexpected medical expenses while travelling around the UK.
- Baggage protection: if your gear is damaged or snatched from under your nose, our gear cover may help with replacing covered items (policy excess applies).
- Family plans: The UK offers spellbinding treats for the whole family; our cover includes 2 adults and up to 8 dependents on the one policy.
- Your plan can be extended while still travelling for up to 12 months from your departure date (terms and conditions apply)
What should I look out for when travelling to Great Britain?
Lost, stolen or delayed baggage cover
A Scottish summer is full of surprises, sea kayaking the sheltered sea lochs of the Western Highlands or even snorkelling the Outer Hebrides Island chain (yes - you’ll need a thick wetsuit!). But if your gear is delayed, damaged or stolen on public transport before you even arrive, our baggage cover can help.
- Bags stolen or damaged: as soon as possible report any theft to the police, and if stolen from your private, locked accommodation, there must be visible evidence of forced entry. You must also report any damage to the relevant authority and make a claim directly with the carrier first. Remember you’ll need official reports, supporting documentation and copies of your receipts if you need to make a claim.
- Bags delayed: if your checked-in baggage is delayed for more than 12 hours, there is cover to replace those essential items and toiletries while you wait for your bags to arrive.
Overseas medical insurance and cover for Coronavirus-related events
No one likes being left out of pocket from unexpected medical costs while travelling. If your hike along the beautiful Seven Sisters coastal walk leaves you hobbling in pain and you need to find a doctor or a hospital, our plans have got your back to recover medically necessary expenses such as hospital stays, prescriptions, outpatient treatment and emergency dental treatment.
Our travel insurance plans include emergency medical and repatriation cover if you get sick with Coronavirus while travelling, but terms and conditions as well as benefit limits apply and vary between plans. It’s always a good idea to wear a face mask when visiting any of the UK’s popular hotspots but if you do get sick, contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team so they can help direct you to local medical facilities if needed and help you understand your options. For all the details including benefit limits and exclusions under our Coronavirus cover, check out our Coronavirus cover article.
Access to our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team around the clock
It’s good to know with World Nomads travel insurance, you can call our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team if you suddenly find yourself in a crisis overseas. The EA 24/7 team can help get you to the nearest medical facility, provide help navigating language barriers, or assist with evacuation for medical reasons.
For injuries where treatment costs are not expected to exceed AUD$2,000, you can submit your receipts for reimbursement. If you are hospitalised or if your treatment expenses as an outpatient are likely to go above AUD$2,000, you must call our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team who will work with us to confirm cover and they will liaise with the hospital on your behalf to arrange payments.
Traveller tip 1: don’t forget when travelling overseas, your Australian passport must have at least six months before its expiry date.
Cover for activities and sports when in Great Britain
Whether it’s caving in the limestone dales of Yorkshire or a canoe trip down the Thames, the UK is a haven for adventure lovers. Whatever the activity, both our Standard and Explorer plans off cover for level 1 sport and adventure activities that include hiking up to 2,000 metres, and activities such as kayaking, horse riding and cycling.
For more adventurous pursuits you may need to upgrade your cover if you’re hiking up to 6,000 metres, for example if you’re going mountain biking or skiing in Scotland. 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, check your PDS for details or contact us.
If you manage to get some sweet sunshine, the Pembroke coast in Wales has some of the UK’s best beaches as well as being much quieter than the English coast. If you hire a car for a self-drive holiday, the Explorer Plan has cover for the rental insurance excess if you’re involved in an accident. Check out the article on how our road trip insurance can help you.
What's not covered
Travel insurance is not designed to cover everything. Some things we don’t cover include:
- Unattended baggage or personal items, including any items left in a locked car overnight.
- Any pre-existing medical conditions as per your PDS. Check your PDS carefully.
- If you do not use a professional, qualified and licensed guide and operator for activities where required.
- If you don’t follow your doctor’s instructions or what we or the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team advise you to do.
- The policy excess per person per insured event where applicable (check the Summary of Benefits in your PDS).
Traveller tip 2: the number 9 bus in London will take you past the best sights the city has to offer for just a few pounds.
This is not a full list of what's covered and not covered. There may be specific terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions that apply depending on what you'll be doing. Please read your PDS carefully. If you’re not sure if something is covered or how to claim, contact us and we’ll let you know.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalised?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Been made redundant?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medivac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
True Claims Stories
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the team