Travel Insurance for Natural Disasters
How Americans can safeguard their travel plans from extreme weather with insurance coverage for natural disasters.
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For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
- Does travel insurance provide coverage for natural disasters?
- What qualifies as a natural disaster?
- How does it work?
- What is not covered under natural disasters?
Yes, there’s coverage for US residents if a natural disaster such as a tornado, flood, cyclone, hurricane, tsunami, wildfire or earthquake affects your travel plans and/or injures you.
It’s one thing if a rainy day washes out your trekking expedition, but what if a hurricane blows the roof off your hotel? When a natural disaster strikes, it’s hard to classify your trip as anything but… a disaster. World Nomads can offer some much-needed weatherproofing, with protection for trip cancellations, medical emergencies and more.
Does travel insurance provide coverage for natural disasters?
While the forces of nature are unpredictable, your travel insurance* should be a sure thing you can count on. However, you need to have purchased your plan before these forces of mass destruction have become known events. If you did that, then you may be eligible for coverage if:
- Trip cancellation or trip interruption: say a tornado rips through your hotel, leaving it in a state unsuitable for guests. Or the company where you work gets ravaged by a flood and you’re part of the team that has to put things back together again. Understandably, you may want to put a stop to your travels and get your money back for the parts you missed.
- Trip delays: if a blizzard (or other inclement weather) delays your common carrier transportation for at least six hours, this coverage may offer reimbursement for incidentals to help you manage while you’re waiting.
- Emergency medical expense and emergency evacuation: if you get caught in the aftermath of an earthquake or hurricane, you could get seriously injured. What could help if you’re injured or in imminent physical danger? Emergency medical benefits, which may help protect you from hefty out-of-pocket medical bills.
- Non-medical emergency transportation: our plans cover evacuation up to the specified maximum benefit amount to get you away from an area impacted by a recent natural disaster. Benefits may cover all reasonable natural disaster evacuation expenses and related costs incurred for your transportation, up to your plan’s maximum limits.
- Baggage return: If you are evacuated and have to leave your baggage behind (because there are weight limits on the aircraft evacuating you, for example), we may reimburse you (up to maximum benefits) for the cost of transporting your baggage home or to the destination you’ve been taken to.
You can find out more about what’s covered in each of our single-trip and annual plans in our article, What travel insurance plan is right for you?
What qualifies as a natural disaster?
A natural disaster is a natural event that causes destruction or loss, such as an earthquake, flood, wildfire, hurricane, blizzard or volcanic eruption. It could also include naturally occurring wildfires, snow, rain, wind or related weather that causes severe and widespread damage, triggering a travel advisory from the US Government or a ‘natural disaster’ declaration at your trip destination. For more details on the definition of a natural disaster, read the details of your plan.
How does it work?
Whether it be trip interruption, cancellation or baggage, you’ll need to inform us of your situation as soon as possible. We may be able to assist in helping you figure out an emergency plan. In terms of filing a claim, be sure to gather the following documentation, as it pertains to your case:
- Proof of all non-refundable, prepaid deposits or payments;
- Complete unused transportation tickets and vouchers;
- Original receipts for any expenses incurred because of the natural disaster;
- Original receipts for any new tickets;
- Invoices and original receipts from travel service providers.
What is not covered under natural disasters?
- If a natural disaster was already forecast or announced when you purchased your plan (it’s on the news, for example).
- Any extreme weather that’s not defined as a natural disaster under the plan.
- Fear of traveling to a destination where a natural disaster is looming (in other words, unless the natural disaster occurs, you won’t be eligible for benefits).
- Search-and-rescue missions, like during an avalanche.
- Any weather conditions that only cause a loss of enjoyment (such as if a storm ruins your beach day but doesn’t cause any major destruction.)
- Storm-chasing activities. You must not have put yourself in the path of danger.
If you’re worried about travelling and have purchased our Explorer or Epic plan along with the optional add-on ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ insurance during the time-sensitive period, changing your mind is perfectly ok. When you get a quote, you can compare the plans side-by-side and determine which one might be right for you.
*All information we provided here is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the plans described. Please carefully read your state specific plan documents for a full description of coverage. Travel insurance is included as part of your travel protection plan which contains both insurance benefits and non-insurance assistance services. Material included on this page does not represent, nor is it specific to, United States Fire Insurance Company or travel insurance benefits provided on United States Fire Insurance Company’s travel protection plans.Did you know?
Following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which overwhelmed large parts of Indonesia, World Nomads launched our travel philanthropy program, Footprints, which has gone on to raise millions for community projects including disaster risk management in the developing world.
Our responsible travel section has more information on our Footprints program.
Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Unexpectedly hospitalized?
- Travel buddy unfit to travel?
- Close relative suddenly dies?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need meds quick?
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Transportation
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Evacuation and Repatriation
- Banged up abroad?
- Need a hospital urgently?
- Medevac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Passport or tech stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamReady to reconnect?
Reunite with your family. Reconnect with nature. Disconnect from the daily grind. Whatever your reason for traveling, we’re here to help protect your trip.
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In this unpredictable world, it’s important to travel safer and smarter. Whether you’re planning your reunion or your escape, let us help you travel with confidence. We're ready when you are.
Travel insurance benefits: how we can take care of you
Emergency medical coverage
If you get sick or injured, our plans have emergency medical coverage and other related benefits to help.
Trip cancellation
If you need to unexpectedly cancel for a covered reason, we may be able to help you recover your investment.
Adventure sports and activities
We love to explore our boundaries when we travel, which is why we cover more than 150 adventure activities.
Buy cover while traveling
If you’re traveling and forgot your travel insurance, you can buy a plan online at any point of your journey.
24/7 Emergency Assistance
Our team can help you out in a crisis at any hour of the day, no matter where you are in the world.
Support local communities
Though our Footprints micro-donation program, you can help support good causes and communities in need.
Related articles
Travel Insurance when horse riding
Make your horse riding adventure a memorable one for all the right reasons
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Are you hot to trot and mounting a case for an equine-inspired holiday? If it’s the sole reason for your trip or just one of the activities you’re planning on your travels, World Nomads travel insurance may help when the unexpected happens.
- Why should I consider travel insurance for horse riding?
- What's covered
- Coverage for more than 150 activities, sports, and experiences
- What's not covered?
Why should I consider travel insurance for horse riding?
If horse riding in the Loire Valley in France, riding and camping in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, or galloping on an Andalucían beach in Spain is on your to-do list, we can offer coverage for many types of social/leisure, and non-competitive horse riding activities. For those who take it more seriously, some of our plans may also offer cover for equestrian, dressage, show jumping, and eventing.
Note: all our plans are different, which means you may require an upgrade for some activities and sports depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you've selected. Conditions and exclusions apply. Read the policy wording carefully to choose the right plan and/or adventure sport option for your trip.
Horse riding can be a rewarding and exciting experience. If it’s your first time horse riding, you might want to keep the following handy tips in mind:
- Have the right gear: wearing a helmet is a MUST, no matter how experienced you are.
- Wear proper clothing: long pants and closed-toed footwear are essential.
- It pays to be prepared: check the weather, check your equipment, and check the credentials of your riding instructor (if it’s a group ride) – if they’re not good then reconsider if it’s a smart move to go.
- Keep an eye on your gear: don’t leave your expensive horse-riding gear or any other baggage unattended – those 'I spaced out” moments might not qualify for coverage.
- Proof of purchase: any claim you make will need supporting documentation such as receipts of your purchases.
- Saddle up properly: make sure you and your children’s saddles are fitted properly. If the saddle is the wrong size, you or your child could be more likely to slip out of it and fall and it could end up being a costly mistake.
Check your policy wording carefully as terms and conditions and special exclusions may apply for horse riding activities.
What's covered
Our policies may cover you (up to the policy limits) for:
- Trip cancellation or disruption: if your trip is cancelled or interrupted due to an unforeseen event, you may be able to recover your travel expenses.
- Baggage delays and personal belongings: if you arrive at your destination but your baggage doesn’t, our policies cover baggage delays that stretch from 12 to more than 24 hours.
- Emergency medical: horse-riding and fresh air can be great for the body and soul, but not if it you’re on the wrong end of a feisty hoof and require medical assistance. Emergency medical coverage could come in handy in the case of an accident or injury that results in you going to hospital.
- Evacuation cover: your horse-riding adventure may be far away from medical facilities. With our cover, you can get transported to the medical facility best for your care, subject to approval from us. If your injuries are worse than first thought, you could be repatriated back to your Country of Residence if it's medically necessary.
- Natural catastrophe: If you find yourself amid a natural disaster or your destination is affected by extreme weather, we can offer coverage if you can’t use your booked accommodation or need to move to a safer location. If you’re caught up in a natural disaster you must contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team as soon as possible as it may impact what we pay you if you intend to make a claim.
Keep in mind that benefit limits, terms and conditions, and exclusions apply, so be sure to read your policy wording carefully. If you have any questions about your cover, contact us.
Coverage for more than 150 activities, sports, and experiences
At World Nomads, we know that adventurous activities go hand-in-hand with traveling abroad. That’s why World Nomads offers cover for 150+ adventure activities, sports, and experiences, everything from hot-air ballooning, rafting, hiking, and of course – horse riding.
We offer two plans – Standard and Explorer – each of which offers different levels of coverage. It is up to you to choose what plan has the right level of coverage to meet your travel needs and that matches your specific activity plans.
If your favorite sport is not on the list get in touch with our Customer Assistance Team and they will let you know if we cover it. Be aware that an upgrade for certain activities and sports may be required.
Also, if things go wrong during your horse-riding trip and you intend to make a claim, please be aware that, in most cases, a claim will require that you prove you acted responsibly, used the recommended safety clothing and equipment, and were guided by a professional, qualified, and licensed guide, instructor, or operator.
What's not covered
While there are several things, we can offer coverage for, there are also things we just won’t cover. These include, but are not limited to:
- If you travel against medical advice or neglect to adhere to government ‘Do Not Travel’ warnings issued prior to departure.
- Any pre-existing medical condition unless otherwise expressly stated in your policy.
- Participation in a sport or activity not listed as covered in the policy wording or agreed by World Nomads or where you haven’t paid the required additional premium.
- Expenses you incur after you return to your Country of Residence.
- Unattended baggage or personal items.
This is not a full list of what’s covered and what’s not; please check your policy 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.
Traveler tip 1: horse riding requires a certain amount of strength, stamina, flexibility, and balance to mount and ride the horse, especially for all-day horse-riding adventures. We do not recommend you ride a horse unless you are physically capable of it.
Traveler tip 2: horses can be easily spooked, and this is when many injuries occur. Some examples of things that can spook a horse include – sudden or unexpected movements, loud, sudden noises (alarms, whistles, bells, cell phones, screams, etc.), large crowds, other animals (for example, unleashed dogs), wasps and other insects, and camera flashes.
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 for Trip Delays
How travel insurance for Americans may assist during trip delays.
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For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
- What's covered under trip delay
- How to file a claim
- What's not covered
- What's the difference between trip delay and trip interruption?
You’ve been planning your trip to the Galapagos Islands (and dreaming about snorkeling with sea turtles) for months, and now your trip is finally here. You’ve checked in your gear and are ready for your flight – only to be alerted that a storm is rolling in and you won’t be able to leave until the following day.
Unfortunately, while irksome incidents such as trip delays are rarely anticipated, they can happen. And when they do, knowing you have travel insurance* in your back pocket can help get your trip back on track… and calm you down fast.
What's covered under trip delay
There are several events that can cause a trip delay. World Nomads covers delays of six consecutive hours or more when caused by:
- A delay of your common carrier (including inclement weather).
- A traffic accident on the way to the airport that you’re not directly involved in.
- A natural disaster, such as a hurricane, earthquake or fire.
- Unannounced airline strikes or mechanical breakdowns.
- Lost or stolen passports.
- Civil unrest.
- Sickness or injury.
Don’t forget to read your World Nomads plan, which explains in more detail the types of situations that are covered under trip delay. Also, when you get a quote, you can compare our singe-trip and annual insurance plans side by side so you can see the benefit maximums in each and decide which plan is right for you.
If the reason for your trip delay is covered, then you may be covered up to plan limits for:
- Hotels or other lodgings.
- Taxis, ride shares or public transportation.
- Meals, snacks and beverages.
- Missed pre-paid, non-refundable land or water tours or accommodations.
If you’ve purchased an Epic or Explorer plan, there are additional benefits for missed connections. If your flight is delayed and you can’t get to the port in time to make your cruise, for example, we may pay for a flight so you can board your cruise at the next port. This also applies to flights on different carriers. If your first airline carrier is so delayed that you miss your flight on the next carrier, your missed connection benefit may help you 'catch up’ and get to your final destination. If this happens, you must first seek compensation from the airline (and keep proof of any approval or denials). Then, call the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team for assistance on what travel insurance benefits you may be eligible for.
Be sure to keep a copy of your receipts so you can submit them with your claim. World Nomads travel insurance is excess ( secondary) insurance so if the travel delay happened on commercial transportation, you’ll need to file a claim with your carrier before asking for reimbursement under your travel insurance plan.
Check out our article on baggage delay, in case your bags also take a detour en route to your destination.
How to file a claim
World Nomads trip delay coverage is secondary to any reimbursement provided by your airline or other transportation provider. Reach out to your airline first to ask for hotel and meal vouchers, and make sure you get documentation from your airline listing the original and revised departure times and the reason for the delay. Tip: the best time to get all the required details need to submit a claim is at the airport; ask the airline representatives to email you information about the cause of the delay.
When you submit your claim, provide the airline documentation and proof of travel, along with receipts for your out-of-pocket expenses. See our How to Make a Claim article for step-by-step instructions.
What's not covered under trip delay
Not every incident that can cause a trip delay is going to be claimable... here are a few things that aren’t covered:
- Delays of less than six hours. Are they inconvenient? Yes, and we know how unpleasant they can be. In some circumstances, they may be covered under the “travel inconvenience” benefit instead. You must have the Explorer or Epic plan though and have purchased within the time-sensitive period.
- Personal delays. So, your flight left but you weren’t on it. Whether or not you can be reimbursed for your delay will depend on why you missed the flight. Things like oversleeping and missing your ride or just not leaving yourself enough time to get to the airport and through airport security are not incidents that World Nomads is going to reimburse you for.
- Natural disasters that were forecasted or announced before you purchased the plan.
- Reimbursement for expenses above the per-day and maximum benefit. Be sure to read your schedule of benefits to check the per-day limits of your individual plan, and give us a call if you have any questions.
What's the difference between trip delay and trip interruption?
World Nomads defines a trip delay as when you are delayed for at least six consecutive hours, stopping you from getting to your destination.
A trip interruption is when something happens that prevents you from taking advantage of your full itinerary or causes you to end your trip early, such as breaking your leg during a ski trip. Keep in mind that what you are able to claim – and the maximum limits – depends on which travel insurance plan you have purchased.
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
- Work emergency?
- Weather delay?
- Travel companion sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
- Need a hospital urgently?
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
- Ambulance transfers
- Medevac flights
- Medical escort services
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Stolen I.D.s
- Checked-in sports equipment
- Damaged luggage
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 Trip Delays
What happens if I hit a scheduling snag?
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You’ve been planning your trip to the Galapagos Islands (and dreaming about frolicking sea turtles) for months… and now your trip is finally here. You’ve checked in your gear and are ready for your flight – only to be alerted that your plane has mechanical problems, and you won’t be able to leave until the following day.
Unfortunately, while irksome incidents such as trip delays are rarely anticipated, they can happen. And when they do, knowing you have travel insurance in your back pocket can help get your trip back on track… and calm you down fast.
- What's covered
- How to file a claim
- What's not covered
- What's the difference between trip delay and trip interruption?
What's covered
There are several events that can cause a trip delay. Though your specific coverage benefits depend on your Country of Residence and the plan you select (the Standard or Explorer), examples of events covered for trip delays include:
- Mechanical breakdowns of your common carrier;
- Weather-related transportation delays.
This isn’t a complete list of what’s covered – don’t forget to read your World Nomads policy, which explains in more detail the types of situations that are covered under Trip Delay.
If your event is covered under Trip Delay, then you may be reimbursed for:
- Basic expenses, such as food, toiletries and accommodation, that you had to pay for because of the delayl
- Any non-refundable, pre-paid portions of your trip that you’ve had to forfeit because of the delay (such as a hotel night or a tour).
Again, your exact coverage benefits will depend on your Country of Residence and the plan that you select.
How to file a claim
To help ensure a seamless reimbursement, you will want to be super careful with your records. Be sure to hold on to any receipts or other documentation for World Nomads, because (sadly) we can’t travel with you, so we have no way of knowing what happened. You’ll need written confirmation of the delay from the carrier, and scheduled departure times as well as the new times to file a claim. In addition, you should keep copies of your itinerary and any other relevant travel documents.
What's not covered
Not every incident that can cause a trip delay is going to be claimable... here are a few things that aren’t covered:
- Delays that are less than the minimum amount of time specified in your policy
- Delays on a return flight
- Delays caused by expected events
- Costs that are unnecessary or extravagant
- Expenses that are covered by your common carrier.
What's the difference between trip delay and trip interruption?
When it comes to World Nomads, a trip delay is when you are delayed from reaching your destination for a certain amount of time after you’ve begun your trip.
A Trip Interruption is when something happens that prevents you from taking advantage of your full itinerary or causes you to end your trip early, such as breaking your leg on a ski trip (and your doctor advising you to return home to rest and recover.) It’s not fun, but it happens. For more information on Trip Interruption, go to our Help Center.
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
- Work emergency?
- Weather delay?
- Travel companion sick?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Accidentally injured?
- Suddenly sick?
- Need a hospital urgently?
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
- Ambulance transfers
- Medevac flights
- Medical escort services
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Stolen I.D.s
- Checked-in sports equipment
- Damaged luggage
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 Africa
From the savannah to the sea, learn how travel insurance can help Americans traveling to Africa.
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For information relating to policies purchased prior to October 23 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For plans purchased after October 23 2024, please see below.
- Do I need travel insurance for Africa?
- Travel insurance for activities in Africa
- Travel insurance for medical emergencies in Africa
- Travel insurance for lost and stolen luggage in Africa
- Travel insurance for crime and political unrest in Africa
- Travel insurance for canceled, interrupted, or delayed trips in Africa
- Tips for traveling to Africa from the United States
Home to mesmerizing wildlife, extraordinary natural grandeur, tribes rich with tradition, and contemporary urban centers, a trip to Africa is often considered to be a once-in-a-lifetime vacation by American travelers.
Whether you adventure to ancient ruins in Egypt, search for the Big 5 on safari, trek through leafy jungle abundant with primates, get soaked by the spray at Victoria Falls, or learn to roast coffee in a mountain village in Ethiopia, every traveler will find their own kind of fun on this abundantly diverse continent.
As you prepare for your adventure, we encourage you to consider travel insurance* for Africa, as you may experience the unexpected.
Do I need travel insurance for Africa?
International travel can bring all kinds of unexpected surprises - like watching a lion make a kill while on safari in South Africa’s Kruger National Park or spotting mountain gorillas while climbing a volcano in Rwanda.
Some surprises aren’t so great, though. Nobody wants to think about things like canceled trips and medical emergencies, but these things can happen. You might come down with malaria symptoms and need to see a doctor. Or perhaps you fell and broke your ankle while climbing through the forest terrain of Odzala National Park in Congo Brazzaville and need to be evacuated to a hospital. You may wish then you had travel insurance for Africa.
World Nomads has four plans to choose from, and when you get a quote you can compare the options to determine the best international travel insurance for your needs.
Travel insurance for activities in Africa
From white water rafting down the Nile River in Uganda to going for a bush walk with San Bushmen in Botswana’s Makgadikgadi Pans, the African continent is filled to the brim with thrilling adventures. World Nomads covers more than 250 activities for Americans traveling to Africa and includes things like scuba diving in the Quirimbas Archipelago off the coast of Mozambique, undertaking a volunteer project in a local school or wildlife rescue center, and hiking Mount Kenya.
Before you get a quote for your travel insurance for Africa, it’s smart to have an idea of which activities you’d like to do on your trip. Each insurance plan covers different activities so a rough itinerary can help you select the best insurance for your adventure.
For example, if you plan to dune buggy across the sands of the Namib Desert or go bungee jumping in the Zambezi River, all World Nomads travel insurance plans-- including the Standard Plan-- will cover you. However, if you dream of taking a hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara or of cage diving with sharks in South Africa, you’ll want to upgrade to the Explorer or Epic Plan to get full coverage.
Travel insurance for medical emergencies in Africa
Before you take off on your African adventure, we recommend that you make an appointment with Runway Health-- an online travel clinic and our non-insurance service partner. The telehealth service offers online consultations 24/7 and can help you obtain necessary vaccinations or medications, such as malaria prevention and medication to help with altitude sickness and traveler’s diarrhea.
We also recommend packing a few basic supplies for your trip, as some basic things aren’t always available, especially in rural areas on the continent. Strong mosquito repellant to help prevent malaria, sunscreen (it can be hard to find outside of South Africa), and bandages, are a good place to start.
Water and food sanitation vary widely across the continent. Water is usually safe to drink in Cape Town and the Western Cape, but it generally isn’t safe to drink throughout the rest of the continent. Make sure to drink bottled or filtered water outside of those regions. Malaria is prevalent in many areas so if you suspect that you have malaria symptoms, get tested at a local clinic. That is something that most clinics can test for and treat—and is more commonly understood than if you were to seek medical treatment for it back in the United States.
Health care varies widely across the African continent and typically looks quite different than what you’re used to in the US. Emergency care and the right equipment are often hard to come by. If you have a medical emergency when traveling in Africa, you can call the 24/7 emergency assistance team and they can refer you to a place that offers the level of care that you need. They can also help communicate with your local medical team if there is a language barrier.
Maybe you fell and injured yourself while hiking Morocco’s Atlas Mountains and your attending physician (and the 24/7 emergency assistance team) determines that it’s best for you to go home to the US to get medical care. The repatriation coverage that is included in your travel insurance for Africa may cover the costs to get you there.
Travel insurance for lost and stolen luggage in Africa
Nobody plans for lost bags, but it happens. If you’re heading to South Africa for a surfing vacation, you may have packed your favorite surfboard. When you land in Durban and realize that the airline lost your bag, your travel insurance for Africa may reimburse you for the cost to replace your belongings (up to plan limits, conditions and exclusions apply).
If you’re lucky, your bags just took a detour and will eventually make their way to you. Even a delayed bag can be stressful though. If this happens, you may still be reimbursed for a change of clothes and toiletries until you and your bag are reunited.
If the airline has lost your luggage, the first step is to contact them. If the airline isn’t able to help you locate your lost bag, the second step is to contact Blue Ribbon Bags, our non-insurance service partner that will track and expedite the return of your undelivered baggage by the airline. Make sure to have the file reference or record locator number and Property Irregularity Report on hand when you call Blue Ribbon Bags so you can file a lost luggage claim.
Travel insurance for crime and political unrest in Africa
Safety varies widely across Africa. The best thing you can do is have a sense of awareness around yourself, your surroundings, and your belongings. Leave the flashy jewelry at home to avoid unwanted attention and store your credit cards and valuables in a safe in your accommodations.
Take care in crowded areas like markets and bus stations. Keep your bags in front of you and avoid flashing valuables like smart phones if possible. In most major cities, like Nairobi and Kampala, it is also best to avoid walking at night— we encourage you to take motorized transportation instead.
If anything does happen, make sure you make a police report. You’ll need that if you have to make a claim for those stolen goods.
Travel insurance for canceled, interrupted, or delayed trips in Africa
When you’re searching for the best travel insurance for Africa, make sure it has coverage for trip cancelation, trip delay, and trip interruption. If it does, you might be able to get reimbursed for unused, prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses if something unexpected happens.
Sometimes situations happen that disrupt your plans once you’re already in Africa. Certain countries in Africa experience frequent political unrest. If possible, avoid traveling during elections when tensions may be high, and protests and unrest can break out. However, you may find yourself in Nairobi and unexpected protests break out that make you miss your flight to the Swahili Coast for your Lamu vacation and your sunset dhow excursion. If your flights and boat ride are non-refundable, your travel insurance for Africa may reimburse you.
World Nomads travel insurance could also help if you’re already on your trip and something happens. For example, you may need to go back to the United States early if an immediate family member has an unexpected medical emergency or dies.
Africa is a long way from the United States. If you want an additional safety net for your adventure that you’ve been dreaming about for years, consider purchasing CFAR (cancel for any reason) as an add-on to your Explorer or Epic Plan during the time sensitive period. Whether you simply change your mind or need to cancel your vacation for any reason not covered by the insurance plan, CFAR allows you to cancel and get back a portion of your prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses.
Tips for traveling to Africa from the United States
Before you leave the United States, we encourage you to check out the US government’s travel warnings for each country you plan to visit. Weather, safety, and political situations can change at any time, and this is where they list any current advisories.
If you purchase travel insurance for Africa, it’s a good idea to save the 24/7 Emergency Assistance phone number and your plan number in your cell phone so you don’t have to search for that if an emergency happens.
With 54 nations and over 2,000 languages, cultural customs, transport, and everything in between in Africa are different country-to-country. We recommend that you read up on each place you intend to visit ahead of time. Also, keep in mind that most African countries are more culturally conservative than the United States. Modest dress is recommended in rural areas—a great rule of thumb is to cover your knees and shoulders out of respect for local culture.
Whether you’re heading to Ethiopia, Morocco, South Africa, or Tanzania, do some pre-trip reading for destination inspiration—you’ll be wowed by how much there is to do beyond a safari vacation. And speaking of safaris, we encourage you to look for ethical wildlife and cultural experiences, so your experience doesn’t harm the environment or people involved.
Check out our tips for photographing wildlife and keep those camera batteries charged to make sure you’re ready for those gorilla, lion, and other wildlife shots!
*All information we provided here is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the plans described. Please carefully read your state specific plan documents for a full description of coverage. Travel insurance is included as part of your travel protection plan which contains both insurance benefits and non-insurance assistance services. Material included on this page does not represent, nor is it specific to, United States Fire Insurance Company or travel insurance benefits provided on United States Fire Insurance Company’s travel protection plans.Travel Insurance Benefits: how we can take care of you
Trip Cancellation
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
Trip Protection
- Are you or your family sick or injured?
- Natural disaster or terrorist attack where your'e going?
- Called to active service?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need medication?
- 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
- Hurt abroad?
- Need to get to a hospital urgently?
- Medevac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Video camera gone?
- Laptop lost?
- Sports gear stolen?
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 a trip to Africa
The African continent is ready for adventure.Check out these travel insurance tips so you can push your exploration to the limit.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Known as the cradle of civilization, Africa has a winning combination of culture and nature, with urban art galleries, traditional art and diverse cultures, as well as jaw-dropping natural wonders, including 19,341-ft-high (5,895 meters)ice-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, the mountain jungles of Rwanda and the chance to see lions, elephants, cheetahs and more.
But as with any safari in the African bush, it helps to have a professional to guide you. World Nomads is here to assist, with travel insurance tips to keep in mind as you explore this diverse and fascinating continent… BYO binoculars!
Medical emergencies
Soaring over the Masai Mara grasslands in a hot-air balloon or walking over the Victoria Falls knife-edge bridge are unforgettable thrills, but they’re not exactly risk-free. A stubbed toe or a bout of malaria can feel worse when it happens in a remote place – such as a far-flung water hole, or a small village.
If you’re a World Nomads policy holder, you’ll have support from a team of like-minded people who know what it’s like to be an independent traveler. Your policy can help cover emergency accidents and illness when the worst happens (like a twisted ankle that stops your walking safari through Botswana’s Okavango Delta in its tracks). You also have access to our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team, which could come in handy when you need to translate your Ugandan doctor’s advice or find the nearest quality hospital. If you’ve had an accident and need help, follow our guide on what to do.
Trip cancellation for terrorist incidents
Unfortunately, no place is immune to terrorist activity. Governments across the globe have their eye on some parts of Africa as hotbeds of terrorist activity. The U.S. State Department is warning visitors not to travel to some regions due to terrorism.
When you have a World Nomads policy and one of these events takes place in your destination within 30 days of your departure date, you may be able to make a claim if you need to cancel your trip up to the benefit limits.
Keep in mind that all our plans are different, depending on your Country of Residence and the plan you've selected. Conditions and exclusions apply. Read the policy wording carefully to choose the right plan for your trip. If you have any questions about your cover, you can contact us.
Weather-related trip delay, trip interruption and trip cancellation coverage
Not-so-fun fact: weather patterns across Africa can range from the unusual (such as the snowstorms in South Africa that had elephants, giraffes, and rhinos wandering in a de-facto snow globe) to the downright dangerous (monsoons and whipping winds in equatorial areas).
At its best, such extreme weather can lead to unexpected days indoors spent hunkering down at your lodge. At its worst, you could endure safety concerns, delayed tours or canceled flights. If you have a World Nomads policy, you can breathe a little easier knowing you may have some trip cancellation, trip interruption or trip delay coverage for some of these situations, depending on your Country of Residence and the policy you’ve chosen. Read your policy for more details on cover for natural disaster. You can always contact us if you have any questions.
Carjacking, pickpocketing and other crimes
Be sure to check for your government’s travel advisories regarding advice for traveling to Africa or to reconsider visiting parts of Africa that are currently experiencing civil unrest, violent crime and kidnapping.
If you are robbed during your travels, you may be reimbursed the loss of your belongings up to your depreciated value, depending on your Country of Residence and plan chosen. Don’t forget to keep your police report and make a copy to submit with your claim. Keep in mind that cash, currency and credit cards aren’t replaceable, so you’ll want to only carry what you need for the day (enough for some sugary South African fried koeksisters, for example).
Now, with these tips in mind, the only thing you need to worry about is making sure your safari guides have your favorite tipples in the jeep for your sundowner. If you haven’t organised travel insurance for your African Odyssey yet, get an online quote 24/7.
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
- Are you or your family sick or injured?
- Natural disaster or terrorist attack where your'e going?
- Called to active service?
We’ve got your back.
Emergency Medical Expenses
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
Emergency Medical Insurance
- Need medication?
- 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
- Hurt abroad?
- Need to get to a hospital urgently?
- Medevac home?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Video camera gone?
- Laptop lost?
- Sports gear stolen?
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 Cover for COVID-19 Related Events
Travel insurance may help if Coronavirus cancels your travel plans
- As featured in:
As featured in:
For information relating to policies purchased prior to 03 February 2022, please check the PDS provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased on or from 03 February 2022 please see below.
We know Aussie travellers can’t wait to travel again which is why we’ve added some Coronavirus (COVID-19) specific cover to our insurance plans, to help make it clear what COVID-19 related events our travellers may have coverage for. All our travel insurance plans include emergency medical and repatriation cover if you get sick with Coronavirus while abroad. Our Explorer plans also offer cover for some COVID-19 related events with the COVID-19 travel costs benefit a new feature.
World Nomads travel insurance for Coronavirus and our plans
- Standard and Explorer plans: Offer cover for emergency medical assistance if you get sick with COVID-19 overseas – cover includes medical assistance, repatriation and hospitalisation benefits.
- Explorer Plan: Offers cover for some COVID-19-related events such as cancellation, trip interruption expenses and some quarantine costs, as well as additional benefits for healthcare workers, residential care workers and law enforcement officers who have their pre-arranged leave cancelled by their employer due to COVID-19.
Benefit limits apply and vary between plans.
| Benefit | Standard | Explorer |
|---|---|---|
|
Emergency medical expenses overseas |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Medical repatriation/ evacuation (including funeral expenses or repatriation of your remains if the worst-case scenario happens) |
Yes |
Yes |
| Coronavirus Travel Costs Note: This section has its own benefit limits which apply. Check your PDS for full details or read our Help article which has all of the details, including benefit limits, conditions and exclusions. |
NA |
Yes |
What do I do if I get COVID-19 before or during my trip?
If you need to cancel or cut short your trip because you or a member of your travelling party is diagnosed with COVID-19 by a medical practitioner, or if your close relative in Australia is hospitalised or dies due to COVID-19, these tips may be helpful, especially if you intend to make a claim.
- Contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible – they can help direct you to local medical facilities if needed and help you understand your options.
- Isolate! And seek the relevant medical attention.
- If you haven’t left home yet and might need to cancel your trip – make sure you’ve got medical evidence of your diagnosis. This can include certification from your doctor that due to the COVID-19 diagnosis you are medically unfit to continue with your original travel plans, or an official PCR test. The diagnosis of COVID-19 must be made after your policy was purchased.
- Don’t delay in the cancellation of your plans to maximise the opportunity of refunds from your providers.
- Always keep receipts for any trip payments you make and, wherever possible, request written reports from providers or local authorities.
- Follow Australian government and local advice – different countries have different rules. What’s okay in Australia may not be okay in the countries you visit. While some countries may be more relaxed in their COVID-19 protocols, others may be very strict in who they allow to enter.
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything, so make sure you’re careful with your planning and you read the PDS to make sure you understand what’s included and what’s not, as well as the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions. If you have any questions get in touch.
Contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance teams as soon as possible, so they can support you from the time you fall sick or get injured until the time you get home.
When you call please have ready:
- Your policy number
- A contact number and travelling companion details for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
FAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about Coronavirus cover and travel 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?
Our international policies can offer cover for emergency overseas medical expenses and medical evacuation and repatriation following a serious injury or sudden illness; this includes coronavirus, subject to all policy terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions. However, if the plan you already purchased doesn’t include the benefit section ‘Coronavirus Travel Costs’ (which offers some cover for eight specific coronavirus-related events), contact us for assistance. We are not able to change the plan issued after purchase, but, provided you have not used your original policy, and do not need to make any claim, we may be able to assist with issuing a replacement policy and providing you with a refund of your original premium. It is important to remember that this would be a new policy, subject to the policy terms conditions and pricing in effect at the date it is issued and would not offer cover for any event that has already occurred.
-
What do I do if my test hasn’t come back in time, and I need to cancel my trip?
If you need to cancel or rearrange your travel arrangements, even at the last minute, don’t delay in speaking with your airline or other travel providers to minimise any potential cancellation costs or fees. If you booked through a travel agent, they may be able to assist you with this, too. If you do need to make a claim, the cover available will depend on your individual circumstances, as well as the plan you have purchased. For us to assess if cover can apply, you’ll need to submit a claim along with all supporting documentation. Remember, if you are required to take a test prior to travel, it is important to allow sufficient time for results to come back.
-
Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Cover may be available if you are unfit to travel due to contracting COVID-19, depending on the plan you have purchased, and the facts of your claim - check the policy you have purchased and if it has Coronavirus Travel Costs cover. We assess all claims on a case-by-case basis. Speak with your travel providers, you may be able to cancel or change your arrangements at no or minimal cost. If you booked through a travel agent, they may be able to assist you with this, too. Please note, if you’re already travelling and need to make changes to a flight change or your accommodation, even at the last minute, don’t delay in speaking with your airline or provider. If you can’t continue with your planned arrangements due to a positive diagnosis, simply not showing up could mean you forfeit your booking or incur additional fees when you may have been able to move your dates or times at no or minimal cost. If you booked through a travel agent, they may be able to assist you with this, too
-
Do I need medical proof of my positive COVID-19 result if I need to cancel my trip?
Yes. You will need to provide documentation to support the circumstances of your claim. We understand that the type of documentation you can provide may vary and assess every claim on a case-by-case basis. You should submit as much information as you’re able to along with your claim, this will help us to assess your claim in a timely manner and reduce the possibility that we may need to ask you for further information. Information you supply may include: PCR Test demonstrating that at the time you were due to travel, you had an active case of COVID-19; Proof you were subject to mandatory isolation at the time you were due to travel due to a registered RAT (Rapid Antigen Test) result; Letter from medical practitioner confirming you are medically unfit to travel due to COVID. Don’t forget to contact your travel service providers as well, as you’ll also need to demonstrate that you have requested to refund or reschedule your arrangements, and what your out of pocket costs are. Remember, not all of our plans cover pre-trip cancellation for COVID-19. 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.
Bag snatched in Latvia.
It was my final day in Riga, Latvia. In my small bag I keep all my valuables, because hostels can't always be reliable with safekeeping. It contained my new GoPro, Iphone, digital camera, laptop and hard drive, plus my emergency money (200 euros). I planned on using my cameras and computer for editing later that afternoon. The coast was amazing and, as it got late, I decided to take the train back to Riga city. As I was getting off the train, down the vertical steep steps, I had my bag snatched off my shoulder. In seconds, the doors closed and the train pulled off. Telling authorities on the platforms immediately, they could not assist and referred me straight to the police. Feeling helpless, I went to the police where I was kept for hours, because of English barriers and translations of documents. I walked out just after midnight with my report. A day trip I won't forget soon.
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 when visiting the Caribbean
Essential travel insurance tips
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Your Caribbean adventure could be trekking through rainforests in Dominica or taking a splash in the waters of Aruba. With its countless island destinations, Irish travellers will have the time of their lives when they visit the Caribbean. You may like to consider purchasing travel insurance first just in case your island adventure takes a turn for the worst.
What’s Covered
World Nomads offer travel insurance for Irish travellers who can choose between the Standard Plan and Explorer Plan as they both offer different levels of cover.
The following is a brief list of what we cover. Each policy has different conditions and limits, please check your policy wording for a thorough list of what is and is not covered.
Overseas emergency medical: cover is offered for hospitalisation (both inpatient and outpatient), as well as treatment at medical centres in the place where you are staying. You must notify our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team in the first instance. They will confirm if the treatment is medically necessary and advise you on what to do, help locate suitable medical facilities (particularly in remote areas where access to medical care can be tricky) and monitor your medical treatments if needed to make sure you are given proper care.
Overseas emergency dental: must relate to an injury that you sustain on your overseas trip. There is no cover for routine treatment such as regular dental cleans or check-ups.
Baggage cover: if your baggage or personal belongings are lost or damaged during your trip, then you may claim for these. However, claims without supporting documentation such as police reports and receipts may not be covered. Benefit limits, conditions and exclusions apply.
Extended stays: if you decide to lengthen your overseas holiday, you may extend your travel insurance up to a maximum of 12 months past the start date listed on your Certificate of Insurance.
Medical evacuation and repatriation: we offer emergency medical transport and repatriation back to Ireland if medically necessary and authorised by our emergency medical assistance team.
Cover for Coronavirus-related events: Irish travellers may be covered for their non-refundable travel expenses if they are forced to cancel their holiday plans due to a Coronavirus diagnosis. For more information, please read our Coronavirus cover article, which includes all the details, including benefit limits, conditions, and exclusions.
How to get the most out of your insurance when visiting the Caribbean
We recognise that you may have different activities and experiences in mind for your overseas adventures.
Our Standard Plan provides cover for all the main risks facing overseas travellers such as illness, injuries, and theft. While the Explorer Plan offers everything that the Standard Plan does, the benefit limits and/or sub-limits are higher, and a wider range of activities are included.
For instance, if you wanted to go Scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, then you might want to check out all the different levels of coverage that we offer, and to find out what conditions or exclusions apply for this underwater activity.
Though both our Standard and Explorer plans include benefits for Scuba diving, each plan has a different level of coverage and may exclude certain types of diving or dives of a certain depth. Be sure to check your policy for exclusions, such as search-and-rescue missions.
Besides Scuba diving, World Nomads offers cover for 150+ adventure activities including:
- Surfing.
- Hiking.
- Backpacking.
- Kayaking.
- Sandboarding.
- Snorkelling.
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. Be aware that an upgrade for certain activities and sports may be required.
What to look out for when travelling around the Caribbean
Like all holiday destinations, there are certain dangers that can present a challenge for anybody travelling through the Caribbean. Check your policy for all the conditions and exclusions associated with the following risks:
Extreme weather: this island region is sometimes struck by fierce storms that damage hotels and disrupt lines of transport.
Travel insurance tip: if your booked accommodation becomes uninhabitable due to extreme weather conditions, you may be eligible to claim for alternative accommodation and transport expenses up to the policy limit (Explorer Plan).
Crime: thieves are known to prey on unsuspecting tourists whose bags may be snatched from them in street mugging incidents or sneakily taken whilst their attention is diverted elsewhere.
Travel insurance tip: if you are the victim of a theft, you must obtain a written police report as soon as you can. Where possible, provide witness details along with any photographs, comply with all the conditions of any issuing body and provide receipts for all costs incurred, or we will not pay for any claim you make.
What’s not covered
Below is a brief list of what we do not cover. Please check your policy wording for a full list of benefit limits, exclusions, as well as the terms and conditions.
- Pre-existing conditions as explained in your policy.
- Treatment that you had been having in Ireland, before travelling to the Caribbean.
- Unattended luggage and other personal items that are damaged, lost or stolen.
- Expenses that other organisations such as hotels or transport companies are responsible for paying.
- If you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Failing to comply with official organisations and our 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team to repatriate you back to Ireland.
This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. If you are unsure about your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.
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 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 the Caribbean
Essential travel insurance tips
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Why spend your next holiday on the couch doing Sudoku puzzles, when you could be sipping cocktails watching the sun go down in Jamaica or Puerto Rico? With countless island destinations to choose from, you can explore the Caribbean’s verdant rainforests and white sand beaches.
Before you book your flight for this popular holiday destination, you might want to consider buying travel insurance first.
What’s covered?
For all the beauty in the Caribbean, there is also the possibility of running into unexpected trouble. The following are some examples of how travel insurance can help if the unexpected happens to you:
Overseas emergency medical: if you become sick or are injured then your travel insurance may cover your treatment, hospitalisation, and medication expenses. However, you must notify our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team as soon as reasonably possible, when you are aware you will be admitted as an inpatient for at least one night. They will confirm if the treatment is medically necessary and advise you on what to do, help locate suitable medical facilities (particularly in remote areas where access to medical care could be tricky) and monitor your medical treatments if needed to make sure you are given proper care.
Emergency medical evacuation: if you are injured and require emergency transport to the nearest hospital via ambulance or helicopter, then the transportation costs may be covered. You will need to check with our 24/7 Emergency Medical Assistance Team first.
Medical repatriation: we offer emergency medical repatriation back to the UK if medically necessary and authorised by our emergency medical assistance team.
Baggage cover: if your bags or other personal items are stolen, delayed, or go missing during your holiday, report the incident to the local police and get a Loss Report from them, as you’ll need to include this as supporting evidence, along with your receipts for these items, when submitting your claim. Benefit limits, conditions and exclusions apply.
Extended stays: you may extend your travel insurance policy past the expiration date if you’re planning to stay longer in the Caribbean. This will need to be done prior to the current expiration date of your policy and can be extended up to 12 months from the start date of your policy (Single Trip only).
Cover for Coronavirus-related events: British travellers may be covered for medically necessary expenses if they get Coronavirus in the Caribbean.
How to get the most out of your insurance when visiting the Caribbean
The policy that you ultimately choose should depend on what type of Caribbean holiday you are planning to have. World Nomads offers two travel insurance plans, the Standard Plan and the Explorer Plan.
Both plans offer travel insurance essentials such as trip cancellation cover, baggage cover and emergency medical evacuation cover. However, the Explorer Plan offers higher benefit limits and/or sub-limits than the Standard Plan, as well as cover for a wider range of activities.
For example, if you plan to go hiking in the mountains of St Lucia, then you might want to check out our different levels of cover for hiking in case you are injured. World Nomads offers different levels of cover for hiking depending on the altitude, these include:
- 3,000 metres (Level 1).
- 4,500 metres (Level 2).
- 6,000 metres (Level 4).
Note: make sure you check your policy for specific exclusions, such as search-and-rescue missions.
Besides hiking, World Nomads offers cover for 150+ adventure activities including:
- Surfing.
- Scuba diving.
- Kayaking.
- Sandboarding.
- Snorkelling.
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. Be aware that an upgrade for certain activities and sports may be required.
What to look out for when travelling around the Caribbean
Here are some common problems that travellers can encounter when visiting the region:
Extreme weather: well known as a sun-drenched paradise with a year-round warm climate, the Caribbean Islands are occasionally lashed by powerful tropical storms that wreak widespread destruction.
Travel insurance tip: if a hurricane, flood, or another natural disaster damages the hotel or hostel that you are booked to stay at, then you may be covered for additional accommodation expenses with an alternative at the same destination up to the policy limit. (Explorer Plan).
Crime: travellers to the Caribbean are sometimes the targets of bag snatchings and other types of crimes, both petty and more serious.
Travel insurance tip: if you are the victim of a theft, you must obtain a written police report within 24 hours. Where possible, provide witness details along with any photographs, comply with all conditions of any issuing body and provide receipts for all costs incurred, or we will not pay for any claim you make.
What’s not covered?
Below is a brief list of what we do not cover. Please check your policy wording for a full list of benefit limits, exclusions, as well as the terms and conditions.
- Any pre-existing conditions, unless otherwise stated in your policy;
- Travelling to or staying in a country that the British Government has issued a public directive instructing travellers to avoid all travel;
- Being under the influence of alcohol or any illegal substances;
- If you are acting in an irresponsible manner or not complying with local laws;
- Disobeying your treating doctor’s directions and/or those of our Emergency Assistance Team;
- Stolen, lost or damaged personal belongings that were left unattended.
This is only a summary of cover and does not include the full terms, conditions, limits, and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full, so you understand what is and isn’t covered. If you are unsure about your level of travel cover, please contact us for help.
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 stolen?
- Airline lost your gear?
- Bags delayed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the team