Travel Insurance for Death Overseas
Learn how travel insurance could help your family if you die overseas.
- 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.
It's not something anyone wants to talk about, but fatal accidents and illnesses do happen. For those worst case scenarios, your family will need help and support; emotional, logistical and financial.
Our Emergency Assistance Team can help your loved ones get you home – they're available 24/7 for help, they have the expertise to handle some aspects of international bureaucracy such as helping out with the paper work and working with relevant government departments and the policy can help with the associated costs.
The priority of your loved ones will be to bring you home; we’ll be there to help take away the added stress of navigating overseas laws, different languages and formalities.
What’s covered by travel insurance if you die overseas?
If you die overseas as the result of an accident or a sudden and unexpected illness, you may be covered for:
- Bringing your remains back to Australia.
- Local cremation or burial overseas.
- When necessary, reasonable and necessary travel and accomodation costs for your next of kin to travel with your remains.
We also have access to some of the Australian Government's DFAT services, so for countries where the local laws are complex, we can call on some additional support.
Note: In case of death, the death certificate and a medical report must be included with any claim.
What's not covered by travel insurance?
A lot of the exclusions to medical cover do also apply here, so take the time to read the policy. In the event of a fatal illness or injury, if we're not going to cover your medical expenses and you then pass away, there won't be any cover under this part of the policy either.
- Suicide.
- Deaths as a result of drugs or alcohol.
- Any illness or death arising from a metastatic or terminal prognosis that was made prior to the issue of the Certificate of Insurance.
- If an existing condition causes your death (unless otherwise stated in the policy).
- Any costs within your home country once your remains are returned to your next of kin.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your PDS in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
How your family or friend can get assistance if you die overseas.
It’s essential that your family or travel buddy get in contact with our Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible, so that our teams can support them from the time you die until your remains have returned home.
To help our Emergency Assistance teams assist them quickly, they'll need the following:
- Your policy number
- Your location
- As many details as possible about the circumstances surrounding your death
So, leave a copy of your policy with your family or friend, just in case they need to use it.
How we help.
Overseas deaths are the most heartbreaking cases to help with. No one is ready to deal with the sudden death of a close relative overseas, let alone having to deal with the complex organisation and unexpected high costs. The World Nomads Emergency Assistance team can coordinate a local burial or bringing home loved ones with trusted partners on the ground, and ensure that families and friends are supported throughout such a difficult time.
Operations Manager.
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, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
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 medicine?
- 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 overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
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 Stolen or Damaged Baggage
If your gear has been stolen or damaged, here's how we can help.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
- How can travel insurance help if my belongings are stolen or damaged?
- How to report your lost or missing bags and valuables in 4 simple steps
- What’s not covered by travel insurance
- Travel safety tips before you leave Australia
- Ready to get a travel insurance quote?
- Frequently asked questions
Lost, stolen and damaged luggage incidents make up nearly half of all travel insurance claims. World Nomads travel insurance offers coverage for theft, loss, or damage of your bags and personal effects.
How can travel insurance help if my belongings are stolen or damaged?
Your Policy Disclosure Statement (PDS) will have very specific limits, both on the total value of the luggage covered, and on individual items. If there're some items you're bringing that exceed those limits, specify them when you get a travel insurance quote.
We offer cover for the following:
- Stolen or accidentally damaged belongings.
- If your belongings are stolen, lost or accidentally damaged by a common carrier (a commercial airline for example.
- Taken from you during an assault.
- Stolen from your private, locked accommodation and where there's visible evidence of damage and forced entry.
There are of course terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions on how cover applies. For example, we won't cover your electronics or jewellery if you check them into an airline. Read the PDS so there are no surprises.
How to report your lost or missing bags and valuables in 4 simple steps
1. Report it
Your first move should be to report it, ASAP. Who you report it to depends on your circumstances. Here are some of the most common situations:
If your luggage has been lost or stolen on public transport:
- Report the incident to the public transport provider and request written evidence, like a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).
- Gather any relevant tickets, luggage checks, and other documents.
- Confirm how the transport company will compensate you—get it in writing.
If your luggage has been lost or stolen from your airline or accommodation provider
- Report it immediately to the hotel or accommodation provider and request written confirmation of the incident from the carrier or the accommodation provider, along with details of any compensation.
If your luggage has been lost or stolen on a tour or at a public venue (e.g. airport, museum, sports stadium)
- Let your tour operator, venue management, or security know right away. Ask for written confirmation of the loss or theft and details of any compensation offered.
If your situation is not listed get in contact and we can help.
2. Notify the police
File a police report—this step is non-negotiable because your potential insurance claim hinges on it. Head to the nearest police station and get a copy of the report or at least a reference number.
3. Track and block your phone, tablet and credit cards
Contact your provider to block the service and get written confirmation. And don’t forget to call your bank to block any stolen cards ASAP.
If you have an iPhone, try using the Find My iPhone feature. If you have a Samsung, use the Find My Mobile feature to pinpoint your device’s location on a map.
4. Keep all receipts and paperwork
Hold onto every bit of paperwork—receipts for emergency buys, itineraries, booking and cancellation confirmations for any affected travel arrangements. If you don’t do this, we may reduce or reject your claim.
What’s not covered by travel insurance
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything. Common claims we see where there's no cover include:
- Anything you leave behind, walk away from or simply misplace or forget.
- If your credit cards are skimmed.
- Leaving your gear in an unlocked car overnight.
- Leaving your valuables unsecured in a shared hostel room.
Travel safety tips before you leave Australia
- Add a distinctive, trackable security tag with your contact info (minus your home address) to make your luggage easier to spot and recover if it goes missing.
- Be proactive and install tracking apps on your devices before travelling abroad.
- Scan copies of all your documents and store them in your phone before you leave Australia.
- Grab a travel insurance quote here.
Ready to get a travel insurance quote?
If you’re ready to explore our travel insurance plans and optional extras, then visit our Get a Quote page and tell us your travel details.
This is not a full list of what's covered and not covered. There are terms and conditions, limitations and exclusions that apply. For more information check out our FAQ article on baggage cover and personal effects and read your PDS carefully before you buy.
Rooky error.
It doesn't get much more touristy than this. My iPhone 4 was stolen from me while at a Starbucks in Paris. It was on the table I was sitting at. Two girls came up and spoke to me and put a piece of paper in front of me and at this point must have taken the phone. I told them I didn't speak French, they left and by the time I had noticed my phone was missing they were gone.
Australian Nomad in Paris.
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, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
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 medicine?
- 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 overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for baggage. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
-
I'm on a gap year, can I claim for my baggage while I'm away?
You can claim whenever you like, while traveling or when you return home.
-
What if I don’t have receipts?
You can still lodge a claim. However, the team might depreciate or be unable to process your claim.
-
If the airlines loses my gear, what do I need?
You’ll need a Property Irregularity Report (‘PIR’) from the carrier confirming the delay and any compensation they provided to you or offered to you, your receipts and a copy of your itinerary.
-
Do my items get depreciated?
Yes they do. However, some policies let you pay an additional premium per item so insure them for the value you bought them (if it's under the limits).
Travel Insurance for Pregnancy
Learn what is and isn't covered by travel insurance if you're pregnant.
- 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.
This shouldn't need saying, but just in case, here it is: Talk to your doctor about your travel plans. Listen to what they say.
Have that conversation before you buy insurance or even book your flights.
While pregnancy is not considered an existing medical condition, there are limits and restrictions on how and when we cover pregnancy, so it's good to be informed before you start planning your trip.
What does travel insurance cover when you're pregnant?
The most important thing to know is this: If you fell pregnant before you bought your insurance or fall pregnant afterwards, cover may be available for a pregnancy related illness that occurs up to the end of the 26 week of your pregnancy. Also, you can’t have a history of any complications with any previous pregnancy.
If you meet the above criteria and suddenly something medical happens to you while you're overseas, being pregnant won't change your cover. When looking at whether you should continue travelling after your illness or injury, our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team will take the pregnancy into account.
What's not covered
Aside from a pregnancy not falling within the above guidelines, we also won't cover any childbirth, antenatal care or newborn care costs, regardless of whether we're covering the pregnancy itself. We won't cover a loss arising from pregnancy-related illness after the 26th week of gestation.
We also won't cover you if your medical practitioner told you not to travel, nor will we cover you for any routine check-ups.
If you're thinking about getting pregnant, please know that we don't cover any costs relating to fertility treatment, either. These restrictions also apply to members of your travelling party and close relatives.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your PDS in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
How to get assistance if you're sick or injured while pregnant.
It’s essential that you get in contact with our emergency assistance teams as soon as possible so that our teams can support you from the time your fall sick or get injured until the time you get home.
So that our Emergency Assistance teams can assist you quickly, please be ready with the following:
- Your policy number
- A contact number for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
Threatened miscarriage
I did a pregnancy test and found it was positive. I went to the doctor and because I had had some bleeding so it was a threatened miscarriage and I had to have an ultrasound and see an obstetrician.
Aussie Nomad.
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, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
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 medicine?
- 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 overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for pregnancy. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
-
If I decide to return home during my trip, is there cover for those expenses?
No, there's no cover for change of mind.
-
If I fall pregnant before my trip, can I cancel?
The policy doesn’t cover cancellation for change of mind. If you have complications with your pregnancy, World Nomads can offer you cover.
-
Do your policies cover pre-existing pregnancy complications?
No. There’s no cover for pre-existing pregnancy complications.
-
Do both of your policies cover pregnancy?
Yes, both the Standard and Explorer policies cover pregnancy.
Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation
Learn what's covered if you have booked and paid for your trip and unexpectedly need to cancel.
- 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.
Unlike all the other benefits, cancellation cover starts from the moment you buy your policy, not when your trip starts. So if you've got travel booked starting a month from now and you buy insurance now, if you suddenly need to cancel your trip, you may be covered.
What can World Nomads travel insurance cover if I need to cancel?
If you're an Australian, World Nomads can cover you for various reasons if you have no choice but to cancel your trip. Cover is provided for the value of your unused arrangements, less any refunds you receive and up to the benefit limit of your plan. Always ask for refunds from your transport or accommodation providers – you'll be surprised how often you can get something back! And most importantly, get supporting documents for the reason you had to cancel.
We won't list all covered reasons for cancellation here, but the main ones that travellers claim on are:
- A medical practitioner certifies that you're medically unfit to continue with your original travel plans.
- You, a travel mate or a close relative is hospitalised or dies unexpectedly.
- Your transport is cancelled or delayed because of severe weather, natural disaster, hijacking, or strike.
- You're made redundant or your employer cancels your pre-arranged leave (you need to be in full time permanent employment), the event must occurr before your departure date.
- You're called to jury duty.
If you want to see the other reasons for cancellation World Nomads covers, read this article which will also give you further advice on conditions.
Is cover for Coronavirus available?
World Nomads can offer benefits for medical issues related to Coronavirus (COVID-19). If you are diagnosed with COVID-19 while overseas and it’s not considered an ‘existing medical condition’ under our policy, your benefits may include:
- 24/7 access to our Emergency Assistance team, who can help you access local medical care;
- Medical costs including hospitalisation;
- Evacuation or repatriation if deemed medically necessary by us and in consultation with your attending physician.
In addition, our Explorer Plan also has a Coronavirus Travel Costs benefit for certain events. You can check out our Coronavirus cover article which has all of the details, including benefit limits and exclusions.
What's not covered by travel insurance?
Travel insurance isn't designed to cover everything. Common claims we see where there's no cover for cancellation include:
- A loss arising from a change of mind, disinclination or reluctance to travel.
- A loss arising from travelling to, planning to travel to, or choosing to remain in a country or region that is the subject of a ‘Do not travel’ warning issued by the Australian Government (see smartraveller.gov.au).
- A loss arising from any act of war (whether war is declared or not).
- Any existing medical conditions.
- A loss arising from errors or mistakes in any booking arrangements, including, but not limited to, failure to book a portion of a trip or obtain appropriate travel documents or visas.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your PDS in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
Be prepared if you need to claim for cancellation.
Depending on your claim, you'll need copies of:
- Receipts
- Itineraries
- Doctors/death certificates
- Medical history
- Written documentation from the travel provider of reason for cancellation and any refunds
Upper respiratory tract infection cancels U.S trip.
I was to commence my journey from Townsville to Brisbane, then on to Los Angeles. As I was unwell on that day I sought medical attention and was diagnosed with an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection and was deemed by the Doctor as unable to fly and therefore unable to travel. (Medical Certificate provided for claim) After seeing the Doctor immediate cancellation action was taken with all service providers.
K.W. Australian Nomad.
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, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
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 medicine?
- 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 overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech Trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for cancellation. You can also find the answers to other questions in our helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team.
-
Is there a time period that I have to claim within?
You're welcome to submit a claim whenever you're ready. If you're waiting on documentation, just let our customer service team know, so they can make a note.
-
If I'm having trouble getting documents from my travel provider, will you get them for me?
It's up to you to provide all of the documentation to support your claim.
-
Can I get a refund on my policy as I'm not travelling?
If you're making a claim, or you're outside of the cooling off period, there are no refunds.
Travel Insurance for Overseas Medical
Don't let your medical costs bury you.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
For information relating to policies purchased prior to 18 May 2022, please check the Policy Document provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased on or from 18 May 2022 please see below.
This information is for New Zealand residents.
If your luck runs out and you get sick or injured overseas, our 24 hour Emergency Assistance Team will be there for you. They'll look after you and keep your people back home informed, so you can get back on your feet and keep travelling.
What Overseas Medical Expenses are covered by travel insurance?
If accident or injury should strike, and you buy the policy for the activities you'll be doing, you can be covered for a whole range of emergency treatment, including:
| Cover | Explorer Plan | Standard Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitalisation | ||
| Doctor's visits | ||
| Prescribed medication | ||
| Chiro, osteo, acupuncture | ||
| Assault or trauma counselling |
We also have a 24 hour Emergency Assistance Team who can guide you to the nearest hospital and set up direct payments to the medical facility. Their network has a global reach, so wherever you are, they can help.
What should I do if I have an emergency while travelling?
What’s not covered?
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything. Common claims for overseas medical expenses we see where there's no cover include:
- Any expenses once you return home.
- Riding a scooter without a helmet or valid scooter licence (regardless of the fact that the smiling man said your car licence was totally fine).
- Where you've been acting recklessly.
- If you're intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
For more information check out our article on overseas medical coverage and read your policy carefully before you buy.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your Policy Document in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
How to get medical assistance.
It’s essential that you get in contact with our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible, so that the team can support you from the time you fall sick or get injured until the time you're well again.
So that our Emergency Assistance Teams can assist you quickly, please be ready with the following:
- Your policy number
- A contact number for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
Pain in the backside.
Over a day or two I suddenly developed an incredible pain in my backside, to the point where I could no longer sit down without incredible pain. I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with grade 2 Hemorrhoids, which he said would need to be operated on quickly. I had the operation and had to go back often for checkups and further treatment
Kiwi Nomad
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
- Have you died?
- Has one of your relos died?
- Has an earthquake damaged your home?
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 medicine?
- 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 overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech Trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about overseas medical insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team.
-
Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what’s happened! If it’s an emergency situation where hospital admission and/or medical evacuation is required, the insurer covers these costs upfront (provided the incident is covered as per the policy wording, of course).
-
Do you have a list of doctors/dentist so I know where to go in case something happens and make sure I’m covered
We don't have a list of doctors or dentists. If you need help finding one, call our assistance teams, and they'll guide to the most appropriate medical professional.
-
Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed for accidents or unexpected illness overseas. They don't stand in place of primary medical insurance or government healthcare.
Travel Insurance for Overseas Medical
A visit to the hospital shouldn't put your credit card into Intensive Care.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
This information is for Australia residents.
Aussies are a lucky bunch. Most of the time, if we need to go to hospital, we don't see a bill. Sadly, that's not the case when you're overseas. If your luck runs out and you get sick or injured, our 24/7 emergency assistance team will be there for you. They'll look after you and keep your people back home informed, so you can get back on your feet and keep travelling.
What Overseas Medical Expenses are covered by travel insurance?
If accident or injury should strike, and you buy the policy for the activities you'll be doing, you can be covered for a whole range of emergency treatment, including:
| Cover | Explorer Plan | Standard Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitalisation | ||
| Doctor's visits | ||
| Prescribed medication | ||
| Chiro, osteo, acupuncture | ||
| Assault or trauma counselling |
We also have a 24 hour Emergency Assistance Team who can guide you to the nearest hospital and set up direct payments to the medical facility. Their network has a global reach, so wherever you are, they can help.
What should I do if I have an emergency while travelling?
What’s not covered?
Travel insurance isn’t designed to cover everything. Common claims for overseas medical expenses we see where there's no cover include:
- Any expenses once you return home.
- Riding a scooter without a helmet or valid scooter licence.
- Where you've been acting recklessly.
- If you're under 21 and drinking alcohol in Bali.
This is not a full list of what's covered and what's not 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.
How to get medical assistance.
It’s essential that you get in contact with our 24/7 Emergency Assistance team as soon as possible, so that the team can support you from the time you fall sick or get injured until the time you're well again.
So that our Emergency Assistance teams can assist you quickly, please be ready with the following:
- Your policy number
- A contact number for where you are now
- The nature of your problem
- Your location
Typhoid!
I started feeling ill on Wednesday, 14 July. It began with a headache, followed by a loss of appetite and soreness throughout my entire body. A fever accompanied these symptoms on Thursday night. I decided to go to hospital for a blood test on Friday morning, 16 July. The blood test revealed that I had Typhoid Fever. I was admitted to the hospital that afternoon. I was put on an IV straightaway, and started a course of antibiotics, first through the IV, and then, later, in tablet form. I had regular blood tests throughout my time in hospital. I was released on Thursday evening, 22 July.
E.H. Aussie resident.
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, your family sick, injured or deceased?
- Has one of your relatives died?
- Has a bushfire damaged your home?
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 medicine?
- 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 overseas?
- Medivac needed home?
- You died overseas?
Help starts here.
Protect your gear
Love photography, filming or sport?
Cover your bags, tech or gear.
Protect your gear
- Damaged docs?
- Passport pilfered?
- Tech Trashed?
Help starts here.
- Emergency Overseas Medical & Dental Expenses
- Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption
- 24-Hour Assistance Services
- Baggage
- And more (depending on your country of residence)
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about overseas medical insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
-
Does my insurance cover medical costs upfront or do I have to pay and claim later?
Who pays depends on what’s happened! If it’s an emergency situation where hospital admission and/or medical evacuation is required, the insurer covers these costs upfront (provided the incident is covered as per the policy wording, of course).
-
Do you have a list of doctors/dentist so I know where to go in case something happens and make sure I’m covered?
We don't have a list of doctors or dentists. If you need help finding one, call our assistance teams, and they'll guide to the most appropriate medical professional.
-
Why don't you cover ongoing treatment at home?
Travel insurance policies are designed for accidents or unexpected illness overseas. They don't stand in place of medicare or your private health insurance.
World Nomads give back
We believe that as travellers we have a responsibility to give back to the places we love. Buy a policy and donate now!
- As featured in:
As featured in:
As intrepid travellers, we often find ourselves off the beaten path, travelling through remote communities, many of which could greatly benefit from basic infrastructure, quality education and economic opportunities.
This is why World Nomads has teamed up with reputable charities to support projects in destinations that you care about. When you buy our travel insurance, you can choose to make a micro-donation to one of these global community development projects.
World Nomads covers all administration costs so that 100% of your donation goes directly to these projects. Now, with one click, you can join the one million strong donors who are changing the world in a simple, easy and transparent way.
Making the world a better place.
Today I decided to buy World Nomads travel insurance for my upcoming trips in The Netherlands and Belgium. I had no regrets because I could also contribute through their Footprints program which gives back to communities who need it the most. It's amazing that I can travel while at the same time contributing to make the world slightly better. Keep up the good work, World Nomads!!
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 teamClaim online
Travel insurance that's easy to claim on from anywhere in the world.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Make your claim online 24/7
Having been on the road for long periods ourselves, we know that waiting until you get home to lodge a claim isn’t always ideal. World Nomads gives you the freedom to claim from wherever you are and whenever you like, so you can keep travelling.How to claim on your travel insurance
If you're a Kiwi World Nomads member, you'll just need to sign in, follow the steps to start a new claim and attach your supporting documents.
If you're not a member, you can either create an account which lets you lodge most claims electronically or you can get in touch with our customer service teams, who'll send out a paper form for you to complete.
Soon after you've lodged your claim, we'll email you a confirmation with a reference number, so you can keep track of your claim's progress.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your Policy Document in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
Be prepared when you claim.
- Injury or illness? Call the 24/7 Emergency Assistance team.
- Scan your receipts before your leave, just in case.
- If an airline loses your gear, tell them straight away, fill in their paperwork and keep a copy.
- Theft? Report it to the police as soon as possible.
- See what refunds you can get first from your transport or accommodation providers.
Your top claims related questions answered
How do I make a claim on my travel insurance?
Learn more about how make a claim by watching this video.
Get a quote 24/7
With World Nomads you can get an instant quote anytime, anywhere, before you leave home or while you're on the road.
Want all the details?
You can compare the Standard and Explorer plans and prices by getting an instant online quote.
The claims process for World Nomads was painless and really intuitive.
I was pickpocketed while in Mexico City and had my recently new iPhone 6S stolen, as well as my credit card and driver’s license. The claims process for World Nomads was painless and really intuitive, logging everything online. The resolution was extremely fair and would be happy to recommend World Nomads to anyone.
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)
- As featured in:
As featured in:
24/7 emergency assistance
Whether you need medical assistance or emergency evacuation, our teams are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Are you in need of emergency assistance right now?
Contact the teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about claims. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Help Center or you can ask the customer service team.
-
What can I claim for?
To give you an idea, some of the things can claim for are: overseas medical expenses, medical evacuation, cancellation costs, emergency dental treatment, luggage and personal effects.
-
Can I make a claim whilst I'm away?
Absolutely! We understand that you might be away for extended periods of time, so our online claims system allows you to submit claims and liaise with our claims people while you are still travelling. Simply log in to your membership page to start the process and follow the prompts to submit your claim.
-
Can I wait until I get home to make a claim?
Yes, of course you can! Provided the incident you are claiming for took place while you were travelling and your policy was valid at the time, you can wait until you return home to submit your claim if this is easier.....no problem at all!
Buy more travel insurance
Simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy more cover from home or while travelling to extend your trip.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
This information is for New Zealand residents.
If you're travelling longer and your travel insurance policy has expired or is about to expire, World Nomads can offer you cover.
We know that your plans can change and sometimes you have to extend your trip. That’s why we’ve designed simple and flexible travel insurance that you can buy online, anytime, from anywhere in the world.
If you buy a policy while travelling, you’ll have to wait up to 72 hours for full cover to apply.
But, all policies cover you straight away if you're injured in an accident after you buy a policy. And if you buy a policy before your current ones expires, you'll have continuous cover.
Your Policy Document will have full details to understand the cover, limits and exclusions, so make sure you read it before you buy.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your Policy Document in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
- Buy while travelling
- Get cover 24/7 online
- Instant confirmation
- Ongoing traveller support
- 24/7 Emergency Assistance
Waiting periods apply
The NYC Chills.
I became sick - the main symptoms being weak shakes/chills, vomiting, diarrhea almost non stop for 2 days. I could not keep down water and became very dehydrated. Once I hit the two day mark and still could not really keep water down (I was only able to keep down a spoonful of water every few minutes) I began to lose feeling in my face and became very weak and dizzy so I went to the emergency room at Beth Israel Medical Center - where they gave me IV fluid bags and gave me a metabolic panel.
A.W. Kiwi in New York City
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 teamFAQ
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance while traveling. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask the customer service team. If you’re looking for general travel advice, you can ask our community at Ask a Nomad.
-
Do you have an excess/co-pay?
If you’re an American or Canadian, there’s no excess. All other policies have one & you can’t buy it out.
-
My son/daughter is already on the road. Can I buy a policy on their behalf?
Yes, you can. But if you do, you're agreeing to all of the terms and conditions as if you are them.
-
How long does it take to get a copy of my insurance?
As soon as the payment goes through, we’ll send it out.
Get a Travel Insurance quote
Simple and Flexible Travel Insurance. Buy at home or while traveling, and claim online from anywhere in the world.
- As featured in:
As featured in:
Why should I consider getting a quote with World Nomads?
For over 20 years World Nomads has helped travelers access travel insurance based on what they want when travelling abroad. World Nomads travel Standard and Explorer plans have different levels of cover depending on your travel needs. Check out our Standard vs Explorer article for information on coverage, benefit limits, terms and conditions and exclusions.
Below are some highlights for why you should consider World Nomads Travel Insurance, whether it’s planning a holiday with the whole family, backpacking with a friend, or traveling long term to work and explore the world:
- 24/7 Worldwide Emergency Assistance
- Buy while already travelling anytime, anywhere
- Cover for more than 150 sports, activities ad experiences
- Trip cancellation cover
- Cover for medical evacuation or repatriation
- Overseas emergency medical and dental coverage
- Cover for lost, stolen or delayed luggage
- Cover for travel delays such as trip interruptions and trip delays
- Ability to donate and give back to communities across the global
- Cover for the whole family
- And much more!
Your exact coverage benefits will depend on your Country of Residence and the plan you select, each with different policy benefits and limits to cover. Make sure you read your World Nomads policy, which explains in more detail the types of situations that are and are not covered.