Wanting to know more about travel insurance and what it does?
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In most cases, traveling overseas goes without a hitch. So, you may be asking yourself, “why would I need travel insurance?”.
Travel insurance may not always be required, but when that illness, injury, baggage delay or trip interruption occurs, and you’re left out in the cold it could come in very handy. World Nomads may offer travel insurance for several events, some of these include:
If you’re still not convinced, then consider the following: you’re overseas on your European ski trip enjoying the French Alps, you have a bad skiing accident and end up in hospital injured. Depending on your injuries your recovery could take days. You may also need to think about medical repatriation, paying for extra accommodation, prescribed medication, and any other unforeseen costs.
We always want our travelers to enjoy their holiday, but it doesn't always go smoothly. Luckily, we’ve seen great outcomes from countless cases where our customers were covered under our Standard or Explorer plans. Many happy customers have received the timely assistance they needed without needing to max out their credit card and avoided some major headaches along the way.
Traveler tip 1: if you’re in need of urgent medical assistance, all you have to do is call the 24/7 Emergency Assistance Team. They will guide you through issues such as: providing assistance on how to recover a lost or stolen passport; directions to the nearest medical facility; and, if necessary, determine how to safely transport you back home; and much more.
You can compare our Standard and Explorer plans and prices through getting an instant online quote.
Here are just some reasons travel insurance may be a good idea to consider on your next overseas vacation:
If there's one big reason to consider buying travel insurance, this is it. In many cases, if you get sick, the hospital won't treat you without upfront payment or providing proof of an insurance policy. World Nomads travel insurance can cover overseas emergency medical expenses including:
This is not a full list of what's covered. There are limits and conditions that apply, so for more information check out our article on overseas medical coverage, and read your policy carefully before you buy.
Have to cancel your trip? When you start paying for your airfares and accommodation, it makes sense to protect what you've spent in case you can't travel. All our policies can help cover flights and accommodation if:
If you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason, our travel plans may help save you money and time, but if you don’t have insurance, you could be paying for a trip you were unable to take and many more headaches.
Bags can go missing from airline check-ins and things get stolen when left unattended while on holidays. If you are taking several bags and have valuables such as skis, a camera and lenses, or a fancy designer dress that you would like to cover, then our policies can help with cover for high-value items in case of loss, theft, or damage when your bag is checked in with a carrier or because of a theft. We can also cover your essential items if your bag is delayed – think toiletries, underwear, a clean shirt, and some socks.
Coverage for any COVID-19-related events under our Standard and Explorer plans will depend on your Country of Residence and the plan you’ve selected. If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 while overseas, your benefits may include:
Some of our Explorer plans also offer cover for some additional COVID-19-related events such as cancellation following a diagnosis to assist our travelers. To find out what cover applies to you, read our What's Covered for Coronavirus? article, which has all the details, including benefit limits, terms and conditions, and exclusions.
Note: don't forget to read the policy wording when you hit the quote button as all plans are different – don't just assume you are covered in every situation, as terms and conditions, benefit limits, and exclusions may apply.
With a World Nomads policy, you can buy cover anytime, anywhere. Plus, if you decide to stay longer somewhere, we are happy to extend your policy if it's done before the end date shown on your Certificate of Insurance.
Traveler tip 2: if you buy a policy while traveling overseas, there may be a waiting period before your cover is activated. The maximum duration available for any policy, including extensions varies based on your country of residence. For some regions it is 12 months from the start date indicated on your Certificate of Insurance, except for US and Brazil-based residents which is 180 days.
I fell on my side and heard the sound of a dry stick breaking, I realized my leg was broken, then I just lay on the beach... The first phone call I got was from World Nomads and they basically told me, you don't worry about this Anton, just focus on getting better...and we'll take care of the rest.
Anton,
World Nomads customer from Iceland
About World Nomads
World Nomads polices are designed by travelers for travelers to provide simple and flexible travel insurance. Featuring coverage for more than 200 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 summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions of the travel insurance plans described. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.
You can compare the Standard and Explorer plans and prices through getting an instant online quote.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamEssential travel insurance tips
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Sun, sandy beaches and azure blue waters to enjoy – the Caribbean is an island paradise just waiting to be experienced! Whether you’re going on an island cruise, visiting one of 22 UNESCO heritage sites or hitting up local markets for a bite of famous jerk chicken, consider our tips on traveling in the Caribbean to get the most out of your trip.
With World Nomads, you can buy travel insurance when you book your trip from home or while you're already traveling around the many islands of the Caribbean. All our plans offer cover (up to the benefit limits) for:
Make sure that you’ve selected the right travel insurance plan for your specific needs. World Nomads has two levels of cover - the Standard Plan and Explorer Plan - that offer different benefits, limits and sub-limits so it’s best to compare them to see which one suits your travel needs.
You can get a quote, make a claim, or extend your policy instantly online, even while traveling.
Hurricanes and tropical storms are among the biggest threats of your trip turning upside down. If your flight or cruise has been cancelled, or your hotel is unable to accept visitors, you may qualify for trip cancellation or interruption benefits, depending your Country of Residence.
Traveler tip: timing is key: You need to have bought your travel insurance plan before the storm was announced on TV or through major news sites and government sites. You also won’t be eligible for coverage if you cancel because of a few knocked-down trees, or the forecast is cloudy and gray.
Stay up to date with the latest travel alerts and warnings for the Caribbean here.
Street crime and petty theft, such as pickpocketing and mugging, are unfortunate realities in the Caribbean. Should that happen to you, get to safety first and go to the local authorities to report the incident (don’t forget to get a copy of the report, which you’ll need if you make a claim).
Our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team can provide 24/7 365 days assistance when you are in a medical crisis, such as helping to locate health care facilities, providing a medical transfer to a hospital or repatriation to your home country where necessary, and getting in touch with family members in case of an emergency.
If your personal belongings get swiped, you may be able to make a claim for replacement or reimbursement of your stolen items, up to a per item and total maximum limit. Terms and conditions apply, so be sure to check your policy wording.
Traveler tip: if you forgot to buy travel insurance before you left home, you can purchase while you’re travelling (a waiting period may apply for some benefits).
The Caribbean feels like a non-stop adventure, from snorkelling in crystal-clear water and trekking amid cloud forests, to swimming under cascading waterfalls. The great news is that our travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities, experiences and sports including:
Depending on your travel plans and Country of Residence, you may need to upgrade your policy to be covered for the activities you will be doing. If you’re unsure whether the activity you want to do is covered, just contact us.
Keep in mind that certain adventures may also have special conditions and exclusions which, if you don’t comply, could affect your coverage. These could be getting certification for your activity, or booking the excursion with a qualified, licensed operator and abiding by safety practices, whether or not or they’re a part of the local law.
Surfing accidents, sunburn and dehydration, food poisoning, or in the worst case scenario an act of violence. Major and minor occurrences can happen in the Caribbean, which is why our plans cover emergency medical expenses if you fall ill, get into an accident or get hurt on your trip. If you experience a medical emergency whilst on holiday in the Caribbean, be sure to contact our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team, who will need to approve your surgical procedures, medical treatment, or evacuation, otherwise your coverage may be reduced or impacted.
Traveler tip: be sure to get reports, documentation and receipts if you need medical care, as you will need these to support your claim.
Depending on your Country of Residence you may not need a Visa to travel in the Caribbean. Keep in mind that the Caribbean is made up of 13 countries, each of which have their own rules and regulations. Be sure to check the requirements before you arrive.
Keep your passport safe by locking it in a hotel or hostel safe and avoid carrying it around. It’s also wise to leave a copy with someone you trust back home, as well as a digitally secure copy of your passports and Visas.
If your passport is stolen, our policies may help cover some of the extra costs while you arrange an emergency replacement passport. Be sure to check the policy wording for coverage conditions.
Note: all travel insurance plans are different, and cover will vary, depending on what's happened, your Country of Residence, the plan you choose and any optional extras or upgrades you add.
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything – so make sure you know what you’re covered for. Some of the events we don’t cover include:
Check out some of our other articles and information to help you plan your ideal Caribbean adventure including:
Travel insurance doesn't cover everything. All of the information we provide is a brief summary. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions outlined in the policy wording. Coverage may not be the same or available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. If you’re not sure if something is covered, get in touch.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamWhether you are island hopping in the south or riding the rail to the north, learn how travel insurance for Thailand can help visiting Americans.
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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.
Thailand welcomes thousands of American travelers each year. Whether you’re checking out the Bangkok nightlife, the water buffalo races in Chonburi, or have your sights set on more off the beaten path spots in Thailand like Chaloem Rattanakosin National Park, there are plenty of adventures to be had in Thailand.
As nomads ourselves, we’ve had our share of fun times. We’ve danced the night away in Ko Pha-Ngan at Thailand’s epic Full Moon Parties, trekked through the jungle, and enjoyed flavorful local dishes like Khao Soi and Pad Thai. And we’ve learned a few things along the way and love to share our Thailand travel tips.
Our first tip: anything can happen on an international adventure, so we encourage you to explore travel insurance* for Thailand to protect your vacation.
When you’re planning your trip to Thailand, there are some things you just can’t foresee. We had a claim from one of our nomads who needed surgery after they broke their leg in Koh Samui. We had another claim a nomad who had a camera stolen on the crowded streets of Khao San Road in Bangkok. These events definitely weren't planned, but a World Nomads travel insurance plan for Thailand may help if you run into trouble on your overseas adventure.
With any overseas travel, there’s always going to be some things you can’t plan for - like canceled trips, natural disasters, medical emergencies, and delayed baggage. Because of these unforeseen situations, you may want to consider travel insurance. There are 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.
Your Thailand adventure may take you surfing in Phuket or kayaking the Run Tee River. You may also decide to hike to Tarn Lod Yai, a massive ancient sea cave. World Nomads travel insurance covers more than 250 activities for Americans traveling to Thailand - including surfing, kayaking, and hiking.
Not all plans cover every activity. We recommend that you think about the types of adventures and activities you’ll be doing before you get a quote for travel insurance for Thailand. This will help you select the best plan for your trip.
For example, if you want to go bungee jumping in the mountains of Chiang Mai, you’ll be covered by all plans, including the Standard Plan. If you plan on upgrading your daredevil adventures envision yourself cliff jumping in Tanote Bay on Koh Tao, go for the Explorer or the Epic Plan which has wider coverage.
Motorbiking is common in Thailand, and in some instances, it could be covered by your travel insurance plan- but it’s not guaranteed. Just because it’s easy to rent a motorbike there doesn’t mean you should, and it doesn’t mean you’ll be covered.
We get a lot of accident claims from nomads who hop on a motorized bike for the first time in Thailand because it’s cheap and easy to rent. However, safety is not always top priority for other drivers – speed and convenience are. The rules of the road and the road quality itself can be very different from back home in the United States. Motorbike accidents are quite common (it’s one of our most common claims) and it’s very important to know that if you don’t have the proper license for motorbiking, your travel insurance for Thailand won’t cover you.
If motorbiking is something you insist on doing, you’ll need to look at getting the proper license for motorbiking in Thailand before you leave the USA. You can get specific license requirements for Thailand on the US government’s website.
Before you leave the United States, we recommend you book 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 medications before you take off for Thailand, such as certain vaccinations or antimalarial medication. We also recommend packing a strong mosquito repellent, as this can help protect you from things like dengue fever and malaria.
While these preparations can help, there’s still a chance you could get sick or injured during your travels in Thailand. If you get lunch from a street vendor and get traveler’s diarrhea or if you're stung by a poisonous jellyfish off Koh Lanta, emergency medical travel insurance could reimburse you for certain medical expenses.
In the event that you get hurt while hiking in a remote jungle in Thailand, you may find limited medical services available. The 24/7 emergency assistance team can refer you to a place that offers the level of care you need. They can also help communicate with your medical team if they don’t speak English.
If your attending physician (and the 24/7 emergency assistance team) determines that it’s best for you to go home to the United States to get medical care, the repatriation coverage that is included in your travel insurance for Thailand may cover the costs to get you there.
If you’re headed to the beautiful Phi Phi Islands for a beach getaway, you’ve likely packed one (or five) new swimsuits. If you check your bags in the US and then realize that the airline lost your bag, don’t fret.
With some luck, the bag just took a detour and will eventually make its way to you. Even a delayed bag can be stressful though. If this happens, with your travel insurance for Thailand, you may be reimbursed for a change of clothes and toiletries until you and your bag are reunited.
If the bag is lost by the airline, the first step is to contact them to try and track down your bag. The second step is to file a claim with Blue Ribbon Bags – a non-insurance service 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 contact Blue Ribbon Bags.
Sometimes you have the perfect getaway planned, but things happen that can cancel, interrupt, or delay your trip. When you’re choosing your travel insurance for Thailand, look for plans that cover unexpected trip interruptions.
Thailand is in an active seismic zone, and there’s the possibility of natural disasters that can affect your travels. If your trip to Krabi is canceled because an earthquake has destroyed your destination residence or the US government issues an advisory against travel to the destination, country, or region listed on your itinerary (and the advisory is issued after the date you paid for your prepaid travel arrangement and after the date you purchased your plan), your travel insurance for Thailand could help you be reimbursed for non-refundable tours and hotel accommodations that you paid for in advance.
Natural disasters can cause all sorts of delays along the way, too. Say you have a missed connection when traveling to southern Thailand to catch a cruise due to a storm. The Explorer or Epic Plan can help reimburse costs if you must pay to catch up to your planned group tour.
Or, maybe you arrive home later than anticipated because your flights back to the US are canceled or delayed due to a natural disaster and you incur additional fees to keep your pet at the kennel longer. The Explorer or Epic Plan helps cover those costs as well.
Sometimes a situation out of your control arises or you just simply change your mind about a trip. CFAR (cancel for any reason) is an optional add-on benefit to your Explorer or Epic Plan that will give you an extra safety net on your vacation. You must purchase this during the time sensitive period, though. If you need to cancel your trip for any reason not covered by your existing plan, this benefit allows you to cancel and get back a portion of your prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses, whether that be a cruise, flights or a cultural excursion.
Before you leave the United States, we encourage you to check out the US government’s safety warnings for Thailand to review their up-to-date warnings that may include advisories on weather or political situations.
If you purchase travel insurance for Thailand, it’s also a good idea to save the 24/7 Emergency Assistance phone number and your plan number in your phone so you don’t have to search for that if an emergency happens.
You may have opportunities to see exotic animals such as elephants, tigers, and gibbons. You don’t want to contribute to the suffering of these majestic creatures so make sure to educate yourself on ethical wildlife encounters before you go. A few tips: never ride an elephant or take selfies with captive animals – doing so only harms their species.
Read up on what to know before you go to Thailand—and remember to have fun!
*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.Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFrequent queries on insurance, claims and getting help in an emergency
Among ancient cities and amazing landscapes, learn how travel insurance can protect Americans traveling to China.
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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.
Whether you’re braving the crowds of Beijing or retracing the footsteps of nomads before you on the Silk Road, China is as diverse as you’d expect a country of 1.4 billion people to be - and offers many exciting experiences for American visitors.
Foodies may want to taste their way through China on a search for the best xiaolongbao (also known as Chinese soup dumplings.) Partygoers can dance the night away in Shanghai, while history buffs may prefer to trade the skyscrapers for some of the ancient Chinese villages like Chengyang and Xitang. Many Americans also include the Great Wall of China as a part of their itinerary or decide to visit during the festive activities that happen during Chinese New Year.
Such uniqueness brings surprises – some are amazing, but others not so much.
For the not so awesome surprises like travel accidents and lost bags, you may want to consider travel insurance* for China. We also encourage you to check out our team’s tips for the things you need to know before visiting China.
You booked the flights to Shanghai and even pre-purchased tickets for Yu Garden. You’ve taken the steps to plan an awesome vacation, but there are some things you just can’t plan for.
If you get hurt hiking through the bamboo forests at Monganshan National Park you may need to see a doctor. Or if a typhoon hits Shenzhen before your trip, it could make it impossible for you to travel there.
American travelers may want to consider travel insurance for China that could help with things like trip cancelation, overseas medical coverage, and repatriation. There are four plans to select from, and when you get a quote you can compare the options to determine the best international travel insurance for your needs.
World Nomads covers more than 250 activities for Americans traveling to China- including things like surfing in Houhai Bay, rock climbing in Yangshuo, and paragliding in Hangzhou.
When you get a quote for your travel insurance for China, it’s advantageous to have a rough idea of your activities. Knowing your itinerary in advance will help you choose the best plan for your needs to ensure you’re covered throughout your journey.
Each plan offers differing coverage. For example, kite flying in a traditional Chinese festival is covered under all plans, including the Standard Plan. Learning the ancient art of Kung Fu is also covered with every World Nomads travel insurance plan. However, if you choose to engage in a more intensive style of martial arts, including Mixed Martial Arts, you’ll want to invest in an Explorer or Epic Plan.
If you’re scuba diving the Great Wall of China (yes, that’s a thing!) and get decompression sickness, emergency medical coverage could reimburse you for your medical expenses. If your injury is serious, the 24/7 emergency assistance team may also recommend that you return home to the United States for treatment. In that instance, repatriation coverage that is included in your travel insurance for China may get you there.
Keep in mind that your health insurance likely won’t cover your medical expenses in China, so investing in travel insurance for China may help cover unexpected emergencies. If you have a medical emergency when traveling to China, you can call the 24/7 emergency assistance team and they can help refer you to a place that offers the level of care that you need. If your medical team only speaks Mandarin, our team can also help communicate with your doctors.
To streamline your experience seeking medical treatment in China, we recommend signing up for FootprintID before your trip. This non-insurance service is a portable personal health record where your documents, prescriptions, test results, and emergency contacts are accessible in one place anywhere in the world. Whether you need to refill a prescription or deal with a more serious injury, FootprintID expedites the process.
It’s not something anyone wants to think about, but sometimes you’re left sitting at the carousel waiting for the bag that never comes.
What happens if your checked bag ends up in Hunan instead of Hainan? If you’re lucky, your bag just took a detour and will eventually make its way to you. Even a delayed bag can be stressful though. If your bag is delayed for at least 12 hours, you could still be reimbursed for a change of clothes and toiletries until you and your bag are reunited.
If your bag never arrives, your first call should be to the airline. If the airline isn’t able to track down your bag, your second step is to contact Blue Ribbon Bags, a non-insurance service 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.
With such a large population, it can be hard dealing with the crowds while traveling in China. Unfortunately, where there are crowds, there can also be pickpockets.
We’ve heard claims of theft happening at transportation stations and on trains. It’s also not uncommon to hear reports of pickpocketing around major attractions located in some of the larger cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian, and Guiyang.
Before you leave the United States, make sure to review our tips for protecting yourself from petty crime in China. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid putting anything valuable in your back pockets.
If you’re robbed, make sure you file a police report. You’ll need that if you make a claim.
What happens if you get sick a few days before leaving for China? If your doctor tells you not to leave the US at that time, you could be forced to cancel your trip. Your travel insurance for China plan includes cancellation coverage and could reimburse you for those non-refundable flights, hotels, and activities you paid for in advance.
Sometimes situations happen that can disrupt your plans once you’re already in China. If there’s an unexpected landslide, it could prevent you from continuing on with your planned activities.
If you have travel insurance for China, and something unexpected happens that causes you to cancel, delay, or interrupt your trip, you may be able to recover your unused, prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses.
If you want an additional safety net for your trip, consider purchasing CFAR (cancel for any reason) as an add-on benefit to your Explorer or Epic Plan. You must purchase this 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, whether that be a cruise or a cultural excursion.
Before you leave the US, we encourage you to check out the US government’s safety warnings for China. Weather, safety, and political situations can change at any time, and this is where they list their up-to-date warnings.
Watch out for some of the scams in China like counterfeit Chinese money. Try to carry smaller denominations or only pay with exact change to avoid getting fake money in return.
If you purchase travel insurance for China, it’s always 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.
Before you head off on your trip, try to learn how to speak a few Mandarin phrases. In certain areas of China, you won’t find people that know how to speak English. You may also want to download our China Travel Safety Guide.
*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.Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamSay Ni Hao to ancient cities, dancing dragons, and amazing landscapes - adventure awaits in China!
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Whether you’re braving the crowds of Beijing or retracing the footsteps of nomads before you on the Silk Road, China is as diverse as you’d expect a country of 1.4 billion people to be - and offers a plethora of opportunities for Canadian visitors.
Foodies may want to taste their way through China on a search for the best xiaolongbao (also known as Chinese soup dumplings.) Partygoers may want to dance the night away in Shanghai, while history buffs may prefer to trade the skyscrapers for some of the ancient Chinese villages like Chengyang and Xitang.
Many Canadians also include the Great Wall of China as a part of their itinerary or decide to visit during the festive activities that happen during Chinese New Year.
Such uniqueness brings surprises – some are amazing, but others not so much.
For the not-so-awesome surprises like travel accidents and lost bags, you may want to consider travel insurance for China. We also encourage you to check out our team’s tips for the things you need to know before visiting China.
You booked the flights to Shanghai and even pre-purchased tickets for Yu Garden. You’ve taken the steps to plan an awesome vacation, but there’s some things you just can’t plan for.
If you get hurt hiking through the bamboo forests at Monganshan National Park you may need to see a doctor. Or if a typhoon hits Shenzhen before your trip, it could make it impossible for you to travel there.
Canadian travellers may want to consider travel insurance for China that could help with things like trip cancellation, overseas medical coverage, and repatriation. There are different plans to select from, and when you get a quote you can compare the options to determine the best international travel insurance for your needs.
World Nomads covers more than 250 activities for Canadians travelling to China- including things like surfing in Houhai Bay, rock climbing in Yangshuo and paragliding in Hangzhou.
When you get a quote for your travel insurance for China, you’ll need to list your planned activities. You won’t be able to add or remove activities after you make your purchase, so make sure you add them all at that time. If you are participating in an activity that isn’t listed in your policy wording, you can contact us to determine if you will be covered.
If you’re scuba diving the Great Wall of China (yes, that’s a thing!) and get decompression sickness, emergency medical coverage could reimburse you for your medical expenses. If your injury is serious, our medical team may also recommend that you return home to Canada for treatment. In that instance, repatriation coverage that is included in your travel insurance for China could get you there.
Keep in mind that your Government Health Insurance Plan may only pay a small portion, if any, of your medical expenses in China. In most situations, medical providers will want their money upfront and you would submit for reimbursement afterwards.
If you have a medical emergency when travelling to China, you can call the 24/7 emergency assistance team and they can help refer you to a place that offers the level of care that you need. If your medical team only speaks Mandarin, our team can also help communicate with your doctors if there’s a language barrier.
What happens if your checked bag ends up in Hunan instead of Hainan? If you’re lucky, your bag just took a detour and will eventually make its way to you. Even a delayed bag can be stressful though. If this happens, you could still be reimbursed for a change of clothes and toiletries until you and your bag are reunited.
It’s not something anyone wants to think about, but sometimes you’re left sitting at the carousel waiting for the bag that never comes. If you arrive in Shenzhen and realize that your bag is gone forever, the baggage coverage included in your travel insurance for China may reimburse you for the cost to replace your lost belongings.
When you get a quote, you can check the policy wording in your international travel insurance policy to get the specific details on depreciation and policy limits.
Travel insurance for pickpockets in China
With such a large population, it can be hard dealing with the crowds while travelling in China. Unfortunately, where there are crowds, there can also be pickpockets.
We’ve heard claims of theft happening at transportation stations and on trains. It’s also not uncommon to hear reports of pickpocketing around major attractions located in some of the larger cities like Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian and Guiyang.
Before you leave Canada, make sure to review our tips for protecting yourself from petty crime in China. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid putting anything valuable in your back pockets. You may also want to carry handbags across your body, and even wear backpacks on your front.
If you’re robbed, make sure you file a police report. You’ll need that if you make a claim.
What happens if you get sick a few days before leaving for China? If your doctor tells you not to leave Canada at that time, you could be forced to cancel your trip. Your travel insurance plan for China includes cancellation coverage and could reimburse you for those non-refundable flights, hotels, and activities you paid for in advance.
Sometimes situations happen that can disrupt your plans once you’re already in China. If there’s an unexpected landslide and the Canadian Government issues a travel advisory against travel to that region of China, it could definitely prevent you from continuing on with your planned activities.
If you have travel insurance for China, and something unexpected happens that causes you to cancel, delay, or interrupt your trip, you may be able to recover your unused, prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses.
Before you leave Canada, we encourage you to check out the Canadian government’s safety warnings for China to review their up-to-date warnings on any advisories. Weather, safety, and political situations can change at any time, and this is where they list their up-to-date warnings on any advisories that may exist at that time.
Watch out for some of the scams in China- like counterfeit Chinese money. Try to carry smaller denominations or only pay with exact change to avoid getting fake money in return.
If you purchase travel insurance for China, it’s always a good idea to save the 24/7 Emergency Assistance phone number and your policy number in your cell phone so you don’t have to search for that if an emergency happens.
Try to learn how to speak a few Mandarin phrases before you go. In certain areas of China, you won’t find people that know how to speak English or French.
You may also want to download our China Travel Safety Guide.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms and conditions of the policy. It is important you read and understand your policy as it contains benefits, conditions, exclusions and pre-existing condition exclusions. If you do not understand your coverage, or if you have questions, just ask us.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamTo make a claim, these are the steps you need to follow if your passport is stolen.
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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.
Did someone steal your bag with your passport in it? If you don’t have it locked up in a secure place, this can happen to you in even the ‘safest’ of places. If a thief makes off with your passport, you’ll want to get an emergency one ASAP and then get the process started for making a claim with your World Nomads travel insurance*. Use this guide to help you figure out the steps to take.
Go to the relevant authorities and get a report of the incident. These authorities may include:
Note: It's important to report the theft of your passport immediately to avoid identity theft and any other illegal uses of your document. Your travel insurance claim may also be affected if you don't report the theft to us within 20 days. Contact our Emergency Assistance team if you have any questions.
Go to the nearest US Embassy or Consulate abroad to apply for a replacement passport. You'll need a passport photo, an ID (such as a driver’s license), proof of citizenship (birth certificate, photocopy of your passport), your travel itinerary and your airline and train tickets, and a declaration of a stolen or damaged passport.
For more tips on getting a passport abroad, go to the US Department of State.
Contact any accommodation, tour, transportation and other providers to rebook or cancel any arrangements you may have scheduled. Make sure you get a printed confirmation of any changes or cancellations, and itemization of any refunds or additional fees.
If you think you'll need to make a claim, you'll need to keep original receipts and official reports as proof. Supporting documents should be submitted within 90 days and could include your travel itineraries; booking and cancellation confirmations for transportation and accommodations; and receipts for any other expenses.
Read over your insurance plan to see what’s covered and to check if any terms, conditions or exclusions apply. Depending on how and when your passport was stolen, you may be eligible for coverages like Trip Delay or Lost Baggage. With World Nomads, you can file your claim on our web site and send in any supporting documentation afterwards. But take note that timing is everything: You’ll need to inform us that you’re making a claim within 20 days of the theft and file the rest of your paperwork within 90 days.
If you have questions about coverage or the claims process, just ask us.
*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.
Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamEssential steps to take when luggage is delayed, including tips on making a claim, and using your travel insurance.
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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.
Once you realize that your luggage is missing, report it immediately to the carrier — your airline or tour operator, for example. Get a written Property Irregularity Report (PIR) as a confirmation of the delay.
Check with your carrier to see if you qualify for any compensation such as for the cost of basic personal items while you wait for your bags to be returned. You should keep a copy of the exchange with your carrier that confirms or denies any coverage. The travel insurance* claims department will need to see what was approved or denied before issuing any benefits.
If you have World Nomads travel insurance, you’re in good hands. All plans include Blue Ribbon Bags, a non-insurance service that finds and expedites the return of lost or delayed airline luggage so you can get on with your travels. The service covers every flight on every airline anywhere in the world, and you’ll be updated every step of the way. Simply report your lost bags after alerting the airline and Blue Ribbon Bags will take it from there. Make sure to have the file reference or record locator number and Property Irregularity Report from the airline on hand.
If you're not compensated by the carrier and there’s no sign of your bags, you may qualify for travel insurance coverage should the delay be a minimum of 12 hours – and if it doesn't happen on your return flight home. Keep the original receipts for any basic personal items you purchase such as toothbrushes, prescription medication or a change of clothes.
Before you go shopping for designer jeans or a new ballgown, remember that your plan has limits on what's considered a reasonable expense, and on the amount of coverage allowed per day. Read your plan carefully and contact us if you have any questions on what might be covered. (You wouldn't believe some of the extravagant claims we've seen!)
Once you get your luggage, get written confirmation from the carrier confirming the length of the delay. In order to be eligible for benefits, the bags must have been delayed for at least 12 hours after the scheduled arrival time. You won't qualify for any reimbursements for less than that amount of time.
Read over your insurance plan to see what's covered and to check if any terms, conditions or exclusions apply. With World Nomads, you can file your claim online and, if necessary, send in any supporting documentation afterwards. You should make your claim no later than 20 days from the incident and provide documentation within 90 days.
If you have questions about coverage or the claims process, just ask us. We’re happy to help.
*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.Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamLearn how World Nomads may be able to assist Americans should the worst happen.
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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.
We understand that this is a terrible and difficult time, but we’re here to help and can guide you through the process. As a first step, you should contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team. We’ll put you in touch with the necessary authorities and help you make any other arrangements related to the death.
While gathering documentation may be the last thing on your mind, it’s a necessary formality to get the supporting proof required for your claim. Here are some examples of the sort of documents you may need, depending on the details of your case:
In some instances, we may need to obtain past medical history records from the deceased person’s primary care doctor. Our claims department will let you know if that’s necessary.
You’ll need to notify us within 20 days that you’re making a claim and submit your documentation within 90 days.
Get together any original receipts, including your travel itineraries; confirmation of your bookings and any cancellations; and for any additional expenses that you might have incurred because of the incident. You’ll need to submit these documents as evidence for your claim. We reserve the right to reduce or reject your claim if you don’t hand in the proper paperwork.
Read over your insurance plan to see what’s covered and to check if any terms, conditions or exclusions apply. If you have questions about what's covered and not covered, just ask us.
*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.Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamLearn how travel insurance could help if you're hurt in an accident.
As featured in:
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.
Make sure everyone is safe and out of immediate danger. Call the local authorities if you need help (make sure to save the emergency number in your phone!).
Get medical help from a health care practitioner, such as a doctor, or by going to a hospital. If you contact the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team, they can help direct you to nearby medical facilities or help translate for you, should that be needed. Once you are safe, notify the Emergency Team, if you haven't already, to ensure you are receiving the appropriate care and to work out medical bill details. In many cases, you’ll need to pay before leaving the hospital.
After an accident, gathering documents may be the last thing on your mind. However, it’s important to get the right paperwork before leaving the scene of the accident or the hospital. Ask your travel companion for help if you need to. The types of documents we’re looking for include:
In addition to official reports, you'll also need to keep original receipts as evidence for your claim. You’ll need to notify us within 20 days that you’re making a travel insurance* claim and submit your documentation within 90 days.
Supporting documents could include your travel itineraries, receipts for accommodations, prescription medication, ER costs, and hospital and physician reports. We reserve the right to reduce or reject your claim should you not have the proper records.
Read over your insurance plan to see what’s covered and to check if any terms, conditions or exclusions apply. With World Nomads, you can file your claim through our website and send in any original documentation within 90 days.
If you have questions about coverage or the claims process, just ask us.
As always, all benefits are subject to our confirmation of the purchase of the plan, the written claim documentation we receive, and the plan provisions. You can compare our plans side-by-side when you get a quote to help you decide which one is 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.Been working hard for your trip?
We'll work hard to protect it.
We’ve got your back.
Feeling fit and healthy? What if you get sick or injured?
Take the pain out of medical or dental costs.
We’ve got your back.
Know where the nearest hospital is?
Don’t stress, we’ll get you there quickly.
Help starts here.
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Help starts here.
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the team