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Please Note - If you are cruising around Australia you need to select Pacific. With Regions, variances can apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. You are not required to enter stop-over countries if your stop-over is less than 48 hours.

If you don’t know where you’re traveling to within the next 12 months, choose Worldwide to ensure you’re covered no matter where you go. If you’re travelling to multiple countries choose the region that you are visiting that is furthest away (excluding stopovers less than 48 hours). In most cases you will be covered for the closer regions as well. For example, if you choose Europe, you will also be covered in the Middle East, Asia and Pacific.

Worldwide means anywhere in the world

Americas means USA, Canada, South America, Latin America, Hawaii and the Caribbean

Europe means all European countries, including UK

Middle East refers to the area from Syria to Yemen; Egypt to Iran

Asia generally means Asia and the Indian subcontinent. For some insurers this excludes Japan*

Pacific means the South West Pacific, Australia and Indonesia/Bali*. Select Pacific for domestic cruises in New Zealand waters

New Zealand means domestic travel within New Zealand only

*Note: Variances apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. Check that your destination is covered once directed to your chosen insurer’s site.

World Nomads Travel Insurance Reviews

Travel insurance provided for independent travellers with World Nomads. Choose between a Standard or Explorer Plan to suit your trip needs. Policies are available to those under 70 years. Dependants under 21 travel for free with parent or grandparent. They offer 24/7 emergency assitance no matter where you are in the world. Underwritten by XL Insurance Company SE

Customer Experience

Claims experience, value for money.

Not recommended, pretty much a scam posing as legitimate

There are two major reasons for travel insurance, missed flights and medical. Lost luggage is an anno...  Read more

There are two major reasons for travel insurance, missed flights and medical. Lost luggage is an annoyance but you can deal with it. I missed a connecting flight due to my first flight being delayed and they denied my claim. They have a vague clause that claims deniability if they determine the airline has control over your delay. There's no visibility on how they determine that. It's as close to a scam as I have seen, pity for me I didn't see it before I paid.

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I used to recommend them but never again

Both myself (as an official trip leader) and my other leaders used to use and recommend this company ...  Read more

Both myself (as an official trip leader) and my other leaders used to use and recommend this company - until we needed them. In two separate instances, neither of us were able to get ahold of anyone at the "24/7" line. And when I finally did, they were super rude! My leader never got ahold of them through that number when she was in the airport actually having an emergency. So she didn't get help, and then when she ended up submitting her claim, they denied it. As an affiliate for WN for years, I was supposed to get paid for every person who signed up for my trips, but never got paid. They claimed they made a mistake but then never rectified it and I never saw my hundreds of dollars I was owed. I will never use nor recommend them again.

Not recommended if you actually need to make a claim

I feel like world nomads is “highly recommended” by all these paid travel bloggers who have never act...  Read more

I feel like world nomads is “highly recommended” by all these paid travel bloggers who have never actually gotten in any form of accident. I got in a pretty bad accident while travelling and really racked up some medical bills. Went through the process of submitting all my receipts, records, photos etc which took quite some time since there was a lot. But guess what? Nothing!! It’s been months and still no response on their end, despite my calling to inquire multiple times. 10/10 travel without insurance over travelling with world nomads.

The worse insurance company i have ever dealt with

I will never use them again, the 24/7 does not work. I had a medical emergency, i couldn’t connect wi...  Read more

I will never use them again, the 24/7 does not work. I had a medical emergency, i couldn’t connect with them to get information, when they picked up the phone they were not helpful, they created problems to use their service, they did not gave us the option to change our flight through medical emergency! This is absurd! Worse money i ever spent, i will be procuring legal actions when i get back! DO NOT MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE, they are not trustable.

I will never use them again. They are great until you need their help and then they are extremely unh...  Read more

I will never use them again. They are great until you need their help and then they are extremely unhelpful and rude. They left me stranded for seven days after cancelled flights while I was recovering from covid induced asthma. There were repeated promises they were going to help and then absolutely nothing. I’d been using them for years but I never ever will again. I will strongly encourage everyone I know to never use them either- it’s a total waste of money.

I had an insurance with the company for a 40 day EU trip. Cost was over $280 but I don't feel it ...  Read more

I had an insurance with the company for a 40 day EU trip. Cost was over $280 but I don't feel it worth it. Customer service didn't reply for my first 2 messages, only when I tried the 3rd time - even then they couldn't manage my invoice request.

1.5 months later, still waiting...

I provided all documents requested and then some, and as of today- 1.5 months later- I have heard not...  Read more

I provided all documents requested and then some, and as of today- 1.5 months later- I have heard nothing about my claim. The sent a generic apology after 30 days saying my claim would be "expedited" and upon my request said a supervisor would call me within 24-48 hours. That was two weeks ago with still no call, and the reps on the phone refused to update any of our correspondences on my claim dashboard since last month. They claim "Covid has them backlogged"..?

Avoid this insurance company!

They claim to cover for flight delay/ missing connecting flight. It’s a lie! I wish I visited th...  Read more

They claim to cover for flight delay/ missing connecting flight. It’s a lie! I wish I visited this web to read all the reviews before buying the travel insurance from World Nomads.

1 comment on this review

They will not actually help you. They did nothing.

When I try to make a claim online (at the world nomads website), I kept getting the following message...  Read more

When I try to make a claim online (at the world nomads website), I kept getting the following message: "Download & complete a claim form. Unfortunately, this type of claim is not yet supported online." So then I tried to find a phone number to call and tried to call this number twice: 1-844-207-1930 But both times I was told by the TripMate agents that they can't help me make a claim through World Nomads. (They don't have access to the membership dashboard.) They also said that World Nomads doesn't have a phone number. I tried finding every email I could and reaching out to them. Eventually, 3 days later, someone from TripMates got back to me. I told that correspondent about my claim and attached all my files. Then, when I hadn't heard back from them for 46 days, I sent another email asking for anyone to help me. Then 2 days after that, someone finally replied and told me to forward the required documents. I had already attached all the documents in a prior email, but I sent all of them along again anyways. Then, 23 days later, I received an email that attached a document, which said the following: "After careful consideration, we have determined the reason provided for your claim is not covered under the post departure benefits (i.e. trip interruption, travel delay or missed connection) underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company." There is no further information provided. They did not explain why they determined my claim was not covered. (If you've done the math, I spent over 75 days trying to get help before finally just getting my claim rejected.) This is pretty unreasonable considering my travels and trips were in fact interrupted and delayed due to a stolen passport. (You can review the plan policy I was given in their PDFs available online at their website.) Under the section entitled: NATIONWIDE MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY TRAVEL PROTECTION INSURANCE POLICY GENERAL DEFINITIONS Hazard means: c) Any delay due to lost or stolen passports, travel documents or money, Quarantine, hijacking, unannounced Strike, Natural Disaster, civil commotion or riot; Then, under the COVERAGES section, it says: TRIP DELAY The Company will reimburse You for Covered Trip Delay Expenses, up to the Maximum Benefit shown on the Schedule of Benefits, if You are delayed, while coverage is in effect, en route to or from the Trip for six (6) or more hours due to a defined Hazard. Covered Trip Delay Expenses: (a) Any pre-paid, unused, non-refundable land and water accommodations; (b) Any Reasonable Expenses incurred. You must provide the following documentation when presenting a claim for these benefits: a) Written confirmation of the reasons for delay from the Common Carrier whose delay resulted in the Loss, including but not limited to, scheduled departure and return times and actual departure and return times. Surely changed flights due to a stolen passport should qualify under any reasonable travel insurance policy plan. But I am now out thousands of dollars in flight tickets due to this stolen passport and unreasonable travel insurance. I would never recommend World Nomads to anyone. In fact, I would actively discourage everyone from World Nomads.

Massively onerous process

Returned from a trip to find three of four wheels on my suitcase are broken. I’d like to make a claim...  Read more

Returned from a trip to find three of four wheels on my suitcase are broken. I’d like to make a claim, but World Nomads wants: a receipt for the suitcase, proof of travel, credit card statement, airline property report, statement of non-repairability and independent supplier’s repair report. This is clearly a process designed to ensure people don’t make claims. My only other experience in making an insurance claim was in 2011 with Alliance and they only needed a photograph of the damage (an iPad that was damaged enroute) based on that they paid replacement cost straight away.

Great coverage for a good price but headache for claims

World nomads is a legitimate company providing reliable coverage for a good price. However, if you do...  Read more

World nomads is a legitimate company providing reliable coverage for a good price. However, if you do end up needing to make a claim, the process could very likely become a headache. I've been trying to make a claim for a consultation and medication I received and am not receiving the emails they send me regarding the claim (I receive all others). I contacted claims department via email - no response. I called claims department, was told I couldn't get through, eventually did after an hour, and the poor girl is having difficulty - I believe she was unable to locate my profile/claim. The representatives are kind and want to help but calling overseas is a pain in itself, so to have it be such a process just to make a claim is ridiculous. If you can go with another company, I would highly suggest it. I will not be getting insurance through this company ever again after this experience.

Good way to lose some money

As many others have said, they will scam you in some way or another when you try claiming anything. I...  Read more

As many others have said, they will scam you in some way or another when you try claiming anything. I got a phone stolen, tried to claim it, but they wouldn't pay because the theft needed to be observed. I said we have CCTV footage, witnesses and the police report. Then they said it needed to be observed by me, during the act. It was then I figured I was robbed twice, and the insurance scam was more expensive then the phone. Customer service was also rude as anything. I tried another claim later on, and same bs hidden rules that apply to anything.

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The Best Travel Insurance for Australia in 2024

Travelex Insurance Services »

Allianz Travel Insurance »

Generali Global Assistance »

World Nomads Travel Insurance »

GeoBlue »

Why Trust Us

U.S. News evaluates ratings, data and scores of more than 50 travel insurance companies from comparison websites like TravelInsurance.com, Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip, plus renowned credit rating agency AM Best, in addition to reviews and recommendations from top travel industry sources and consumers to determine the Best Travel Insurance for Australia.

Table of Contents

• Travelex Insurance Services
• Allianz Travel Insurance

Most travelers heading "Down Under" need to make quite the trek, and that's especially true for those planning a trip to Australia from the United States. Flying from Los Angeles to Sydney takes around 15 hours, and even more travel time is required to get to Melbourne and other destinations that require a layover on the way.

Plenty can go wrong en route to Australia as well as once you get there, and the potential for financial losses can be great if you're not careful. Not only can traveling long distances increase the risk of travel delays, but you also face the risk of flight cancellations, baggage delays, lost baggage and missed connections.

These are just some of the reasons why it makes sense to have a robust travel insurance plan in place before you fly overseas for a vacation in Australia. While any reputable travel insurance provider can provide you with protection for emergency medical expenses, your bags, travel delays and other various travel mishaps, we curated this list of top travel insurance plans for a trip to Australia specifically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel to Australia requires a huge commitment in terms of travel time and cost, which is why you'll want to make sure you have coverage that can reimburse you if something goes wrong. If your flight is delayed or canceled , your bags are lost in transit, or a missed connection leaves you stuck in another country for several days, having travel insurance means you can get reimbursement for unexpected hotel stays, meals you have to pay for and various incidental expenses.

Having travel insurance for Australia that includes medical coverage is also crucial since coverage provided in U.S. health plans will not apply.

Some travel credit cards offer coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions, travel delays, and lost or delayed baggage. However, credit cards are a poor source for coverage that protects against emergency medical expenses. Most credit cards do not offer coverage for emergency medical expenses or emergency medical evacuation at all, and those that do (such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve ) have insufficient coverage limits.

• Travelex Insurance Services: Best for Families
• Allianz Travel Insurance: Best for Flexible Cancellations
• Generali Global Assistance: Best for Medical Emergencies
• World Nomads Travel Insurance: Best for Adventure Travel
• GeoBlue: Best for Travel Health Insurance

Kids ages 17 and younger are covered automatically with Travel Select plan

Primary coverage with no deductibles

Lower limits for medical expenses than some providers

• 100% trip cancellation coverage worth up to $50,000
• 150% trip interruption coverage worth up to $75,000
• Trip delay coverage worth up to $2,000 for delays of five hours or longer ($200 daily limit applies)
• Missed connection coverage worth up to $750 for delays of three hours or longer
• Up to $50,000 in protection for emergency medical expenses (dental sublimit of $500)
• Up to $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of remains
• Up to $1,000 in coverage for baggage and personal effects
• Up to $200 in coverage for baggage delays of 12 hours or longer
• Up to $200 in coverage for sporting equipment delays of 24 hours or longer
• $25,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)

Optional CFAR coverage reimburses at 80%

Numerous plans to choose from

Lower coverage limits for medical expenses than some providers

• Up to $100,000 per traveler in coverage for trip cancellations
• Up to $150,000 per traveler in coverage for trip interruptions
• Up to $500 per traveler in Trip Change Protector coverage
• Up to $50,000 in emergency medical coverage per traveler
• Up to $500,000 for emergency medical transportation per traveler
• Up to $1,000 toward baggage loss or damage per traveler
• Up to $300 per traveler in coverage for baggage delays of 12 hours or more
• Up to $800 in protection for travel delays per traveler (daily limit of $200 applies)
• $100 per insured person per day in SmartBenefits coverage for eligible delays
• 24-hour hotline assistance
• Concierge services

Tailor medical coverage to your needs

Generous limits for emergency medical and medical evacuation coverage

Coverage for preexisting conditions only available with Premium plan

Optional CFAR coverage with Premium plan only reimburses at 60%

• Trip cancellation coverage up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption coverage up to 175% of the trip cost
• Travel delay coverage up to $1,000 per traveler ($300 daily limit)
• Up to $2,000 per person in baggage protection; $500 for delays
• Up to $2,000 per person in coverage for sporting equipment; $500 for delays
• Up to $1,000 per person in missed connection coverage
• Up to $250,000 per person in coverage for emergency medical and dental procedures
• Up to $1 million in coverage for emergency assistance and transportation ($10,000 limit for companion hospitality expenses)
• Up to $25,000 per person in rental car coverage
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage

Coverage for more than 200 sports and activities

24-hour travel assistance services included

Low coverage limits within standard plans

No coverage for most preexisting conditions

• Up to $10,000 in coverage for trip cancellations
• Up to $100,000 in coverage for emergency medical expenses
• Up to $500,000 in protection for emergency medical evacuation
• Up to $3,000 in protection for damage or theft to your bags or gear

Offers travel health insurance for lengthy trips abroad

Deductibles can apply

Some plans require a primary U.S. health insurance plan

• Up to $1,000,000 medical maximum per insured person
• Up to $500,000 in coverage for emergency medical evacuation per trip
• Up to $50,000 in coverage for accidental death and dismemberment
• Up to $2,500 in coverage for emergency family travel arrangements
• Up to $25,000 in medical coverage for hazardous activities like skiing and diving
• Up to $500 per trip in lost baggage and personal effects coverage ($100 limit per bag)
• Up to $1,000 per trip period in post-departure trip interruption transportation
• Up to $50 per day in post-departure trip interruption quarantine coverage (in the case of COVID-19)
• Up to $25,000 in protection for repatriation of remains

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is an award-winning writer who has been covering topics like family travel, cruises, all-inclusive resorts and travel insurance for well over a decade. Johnson has researched and purchased travel insurance plans for her own trips, and she has successfully filed claims and received reimbursement more than once over the years. Currently, Johnson uses an annual travel insurance policy from Allianz to cover her family's many trips overseas each year. Johnson also works alongside her husband, Greg – who sells travel insurance for trips all over the world – in their family media business. Johnson also co-owns the travel agency Travel Blue Book .

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Is Travel Insurance Worth It? Yes, in These 3 Scenarios

These are the scenarios when travel insurance makes most sense.

• United States
• United Kingdom

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Our verdict: world nomads travel insurance is a good option for younger travellers who are planning an adventurous trip. however, there’s no option to cover pre-existing medical conditions which will leave some travellers at risk..

In this guide

Summary of World Nomads International Explorer policy

How does world nomads travel insurance cover covid-19, what policies does world nomads offer, here's a breakdown of world nomads travel insurance features, standard features, optional add-ons, how to make a world nomadstravel insurance claim, here's the bottom line about world nomads travel insurance, frequently asked questions, request travel insurance quotes and compare policies.

Destinations

• A wide range of obscure and high-risk adventure activities can be covered, including elephant trekking, dog sledding, and WWOOFing.
• You can extend your cover while overseas, if you decide you’d like to keep travelling a while longer.
• Cover is only available to people aged 69 and under, making World Nomads unsuitable for older travellers.
• There’s no option to add cover for pre-existing medical conditions, so if you’re living with a medical condition you might want to look elsewhere.

Compare other options

Table updated October 2023

World Nomads’ Explorer plan offers a range of benefits related to COVID-19. Here’s what you can expect:

• Overseas hospital and medical expenses if you need treatment for COVID0-19
• Medical evacuation and repatriation costs related to COVID-19
• Travel costs if you or a member of your travelling party are diagnosed with COVID-19 and you have to cancel your trip
• Travel costs if your close relative or business partner in Australia is hospitalised or dies due to COVID-19 and you have to cancel your trip
• Travel costs you or a member of your travelling party are permanently employed as a healthcare worker, residential care worker or law enforcement officer, and your or their pre-arranged leave is cancelled due to COVID-19
• Costs to cover travel and accommodation if you’re unable to stay at your pre-booked accommodation due to it being closed for cleaning following a confirmed case of COVID-19
• Costs for additional travel, meals and accommodation if you are denied boarding on your scheduled public transport due to you being suspected of having COVID-19
• Travel, meals and accommodation costs if you or a member of your travelling party are confined to compulsory quarantine as a result of being diagnosed with COVID-19
• Childcare costs if you’re unable to take care of your dependent children due to being diagnosed with COVID-19
• Pet care costs in Australia if you’re unable to return home at your scheduled time due to COVID-19

There are some scenarios that are not covered by World Nomads including if you knowingly and intentionally come into close contact with someone who has COVID-19, if you travel against medical advice, or you travel knowing you already have COVID-19.

World Nomads offers two insurance policies to travellers - the Explorer Plan and the Standard Plan.

The insurer of this product is Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd. It comes with a cooling-off period of 21 days and choice of $100 standard excess for international plans.

These are some of the main insured events that World Nomads will cover. Some of these benefits may only apply on the Explorer Plan.

• Emergency medical treatment
• Emergency dental treatment
• Lost, damaged or stolen property
• Trip cancellation or amendment
• Additional accommodation and transport
• Theft of money
• Luggage and travel delay
• Theft or damage to your passport
• Rental vehicle excess
• Personal liability
• Permanent total disability
• Accidental death

World Nomads also offers two add-ons that provide cover for a wider range of activities.

• Adventure, Work, Study, & Volunteer - Level 2. Upgrade your policy to cover higher risk adventure sports and activities, non-manual and manual work, study and volunteer experiences.
• Adventure, Work, Study, & Volunteer - Level 3. A further upgrade to cover the highest-risk activities, working environments, and study and volunteer experiences.

Unfortunately, travel insurance doesn’t cover everything. Generally, World Nomads will not pay your claim if it relates to:

• Unlawful, wreckless or unreasonably unsafe behaviour by you
• Behaviour while you were drunk or under the influence of drugs
• Expenses related to a pre-existing medical condition not automatically included on the policy
• An act of war, invasion or revolution
• Insolvency of a travel agent , tour operator or accommodation provider
• You being unfit to travel or travelling against medical advice
• Childbirth or pregnancy complications after the 26th week of gestation or if you have had previous pregnancy complications
• An elective medical or dental treatment , cosmetic procedure or body modification (including tattoos or piercing)
• Self-inflicted injury or illness, suicide or attempted suicide

This is not an exhaustive list. Make sure you review the World Nomads PDS for a detailed breakdown of what won't be covered, found under its list of general exclusions .

You can start your World Nomads claim online, from anywhere in the world.

Sign into World Nomads and submit your claim online. You’ll need to provide any supporting evidence relevant to your claim, such as medical reports, receipts, police reports, incident reports, repair quotes, and travel itineraries.

World Nomads is a great option for younger travellers heading on an adventurous trip. There’s protection for a range of high-risk activities that are often hard to find cover for.

You may need to upgrade your policy with one of the add-on options, but it’s easy to understand and all activities are clearly listed.

There’s also a broad range of protection for claims related to COVID-19 and cover for pregnancy is included up until the end of the 26th week.

However, World Nomads isn’t a good option for older travellers or anyone with a pre-existing medical condition. Other than the conditions included as standard, it’s not possible to apply for further cover, which will leave some travellers at risk.

Policies are also only available to under 70s, while many travel insurance brands don’t apply age limits to their policies.

If you're still not sure about World Nomads you can compare other travel insurance companies here .

Is there an age limit on World Nomads Travel Insurance?

Yes, you have to be under the age of 70 to buy a World Nomads policy. If you’re over 70, don’t worry - there are plenty of alternative options.

Am I covered if I’m pregnant?

World Nomads offers cover for pregnancy up until the 26th week. .

Can I buy World Nomads Travel Insurance for a trip within Australia?

No, World Nomads only offers international travel insurance.

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Nicola Middlemiss

Nicola Middlemiss is a contributing writer at Finder, with a special interest in personal finance and insurance. Formerly a business and finance journalist, Nicola has written thousands of articles helping Australians better understand insurance and grow their personal wealth. She has contributed to a wide range of publications, including Domain, the Educator, Financy, Fundraising and Philanthropy, Insurance Business, MoneyMag, Mortgage Professional, Yahoo Finance, Your Investment Property, and Wealth Professional. Nicola has a Tier 1 General Insurance (General Advice) certification and a Bachelor's degree from the University of Leeds.

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8 Responses

so how do i apply for WorldNomads insurance?? This website isn’t clear

Thanks for question. World Nomads in not one of the insurance brands that is part of our panel. You will need to go to their site directly to apply for cover.

All the best, Richard

A family member has been suffering from cancer, when I booked my insurance the cancer was isolated and stable, now however it has spread and become terminal, and a emergency funeral visit may be on the cards in the near future.

Will the travel costs of a return trip hope be covered under my basic policy?

Thanks for your question and I’m sorry to hear about your situation. finder.com.au is a comparison service and not an insurer. Generally, your policy will not cover you if the cancellation is due to a preexisting condition. However, every provider is different, so it would be a good idea to contact your insurer directly.

I hope this was helpful, Richard

I am interested in getting world nomads travel insurance for a year long trip. I was wondering if it’s possible to purchase basic cover and then upgrade the adventure activity cover for just a short period. The reason I ask, is that most activities I will participate in are covered at level one, but it’s possible that I will participate in a level three activity at some point during the year for a week or so. I don’t really want to pay for level three cover for the whole year if I only need it for one week of that. So would it be possible to buy the additional adventure activity cover for just the period that I need it?

Thanks, Sarah

Thanks for your question. finder.com.au is a comparison service and we are not permitted to provide personalised advice. Additionally, we do not currently have access to Nomad Travel Insurance products. You may wish to contact them directly for clarification in this matter.

Thanks, Richard

What cover can I get as I am 65 yrs old

Thanks for your question.

Nomad Travel Insurance doesn’t offer insurance to people aged 65 or over.

If you’d like, you can compare alternative travel insurance options for over 65s.

Cheers, Shirley

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World Nomads Travel Insurance Review: What’s Included & What’s Not

I’ve used World Nomads as my travel insurance provider a lot over the years and, though I’ve written about travel insurance in the past, I’ve never properly reviewed World Nomads .

They were the first company I ever used and I’ve continued to use them throughout the years as I’ve traveled. Since I get asked a lot about them, today, I want to share my review of World Nomads Travel Insurance with you.

Here’s everything you need to know about World Nomads travel insurance:

Table of Contents

Who are World Nomads?

What’s included in world nomads insurance policies, emergency medical coverage, emergency dental treatment, lost or stolen baggage, trip cancellation, interruption, or delay, 24/7 assistance, what’s not covered by world nomads, what you can do with a world nomads policy, additional things to remember, travel insurance claims, my experience using world nomads.

World Nomads is a travel insurance distributor based in Australia. It was founded in 2002 by travelers who wanted to address the three key concerns: freedom, safety, and connection.

Now, the insurer provides coverage to people from more than 100 countries, offers overseas emergency medical and dental cover for sudden illness and injury, medical evacuation and repatriation coverage, 24-hour emergency assistance, some coverage for COVID-19, cover for lost, stolen or damaged baggage, cancellation cover, and coverage for a over 150 types of adventure activities.

I originally found them via Lonely Planet (but they were also featured in National Geographic and Rough Guides). There are a lot of travel insurance providers out there, but World Nomads was designed for backpackers and budget travelers, which is why I decided to go with them on my first big trip around the world.  

World Nomads has two plans: Standard and Explorer. The Explorer Plan typically has a higher premium because it has a higher level of coverage that includes all the benefits of the Standard Plan and a few more, with higher benefit limits.

World Nomads covers some higher-intensity activities and sports, even on the Standard Plan. Not all activities, sports, and experiences are covered under every plan and the coverage varies by the country you’re visiting and where you’re from, so always check before purchasing a policy.

Other benefits and services may include:  

World Nomads offers cover for overseas emergency medical expenses for accidents or sudden illnesses on both the Standard and Explorer plans.

Its policies also offer coverage for expenses related to medical evacuation or repatriation if you’re accidentally injured. For example, if you’re hiking in the woods and you break your leg, your policy may cover your evacuation to the nearest hospital or back to your country of residence (if deemed medically necessary).

In the images below, the coverage amounts in the left column are for the Standard Plan, while the prices in the right column are for the Explorer Plan.

World Nomads also covers emergency dental treatment for accidental injuries that occur during the trip. It does not include standard dental work, such as checkups or cleanings, fillings, or root canals and the like (or things that can wait until you get back home), however, if you get an injury then that may be covered.  

World Nomads offers some coverage for events related to COVID-19, such as emergency medical, trip delay, and trip interruption coverage if you contract COVID-19 while traveling. Be sure to read the policy wording to understand what’s covered and what the benefits are as these vary depending on your country of residence.  

Here’s a list of key items and situations not covered:

• Alcohol or drug-related incidents.
• If you’re reckless, acting in an irresponsible manner or not complying with local laws.
• Pre-existing conditions or general check-ups. Read the policy for full details.
• Lost or stolen cash (can vary depending on your country of residence or plan)
• Participation in a sport or activity not listed in the policy wording, or one that’s offered by World Nomads, but you haven’t purchased the required level of cover.
• Not following doctors’ orders: disobeying your treating doctor’s directions and/or those of World Nomad’s Emergency Assistance team.
• Stolen, lost or damaged personal belongings that were left unguarded.
• Buy additional coverage if you extend your travel dates.
• Purchase a policy while already on a trip (waiting periods apply)
• Make a claim online
• Access 24/7 Emergency Assistance
• There are age restrictions that apply depending on your country of residence.
• Its online system can be a little confusing to figure out.
• They offer limited gear/electronics coverage. Also, while using your gear, it won’t be covered.
• You can’t get “cancel for any reason” coverage.
• It doesn’t cover anything related to pre-existing conditions.
• World Nomads premiums vary in cost based on your age, destinations, where you’re from, and your country of residence.

I’ve been traveling for over 15 years and have only had to make a few claims during that time. Fortunately, for most travelers, travel insurance is something we buy but never have to use.

However, if you do get into a situation where you need to make a claim, there are a couple things that can help.

First, before a trip, I always make sure to save copies of all of my receipts and travel information in my inbox so that I can submit them to World Nomads if I need to make a claim. I also save their emergency phone and email contacts in my phone and inbox so that I can easily contact them in an emergency.

The more documentation you have about your claim, the faster and easier it will be processed. Claims can be submitted online; you simply start a claim, follow the prompts, and submit your documents. World Nomads will follow up if they need anything else from you.

Here are a few things that may make your claiming process easier:

• Injury or illness? Call their assistance teams ASAP and make digital copies of any related receipts.
• Take a photo of your luggage before your trip in case something happens to it (especially your valuable gear).
• If an airline loses your things, tell them straight away, fill in their paperwork and keep a copy.
• Theft? Report it to the police as soon as possible. Keep all documentation from the police.
• Check what refunds you can get first from your transport or accommodation providers. Only if they can’t help should you go to your insurance provider

Making a claim isn’t fun by any means, but it’s quick and simple to do thanks to World Nomad’s online portal. And, since they have 24/7 support, you can reach out to them if you have problems or questions.  

Luckily, the airline paid me, and I didn’t need to be reimbursed by my travel insurance policy, but I learned through this process that if you have all your documents and proof, the claims process can be a lot easier.

Another time, in Argentina, I was suffering from anxiety and worried that it was something more. It felt like someone was stomping on my chest. I contacted Emergency Assistance and they took my information and symptoms and gave me a list of emergency doctors that they recommended. They were helpful, quick, and got me a doctor right away. I was very happy with the service and know that if something really does go wrong, they act quickly.

Nobody likes to think about what might go wrong when they travel. But if you plan ahead and ensure that you have suitable coverage, you can travel with confidence knowing that, should something go wrong, you’ll be made whole and have access to a team that can help you navigate the situation.

I never leave home without insurance. You shouldn’t either.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WORLD NOMADS .

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.  

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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World Nomads Travel Insurance Review: Is it Worth The Cost?

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

What does World Nomads travel insurance cover?

World nomads single trip plans, which world nomads insurance plan is best for me, can you buy world nomads travel insurance online, what isn’t covered, is world nomads insurance worth it.

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

World Nomads offers the Standard and Explorer travel insurance plans and excels in sports/activity related travel insurance coverage while offering solid trip delay, baggage delay and lost luggage protections.

The provider offers insurance plans for travel to nearly any country and is available to residents of most countries. In the U.S., World Nomads policies are administered by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, a Fortune 100 company offering various types of insurance and financial products.

Here’s what you need to know about World Nomads travel insurance to help you decide which plan makes sense for your trip.

Before you buy a plan, check to see if you already have coverage through a premium travel credit card , and if so, verify whether those limits are sufficient. If they are, standalone emergency medical coverage may be adequate as the travel insurance provided by credit card often excludes healthcare expenses or offers a low limit (the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the few cards to offer emergency medical and dental, however coverage is capped at $2,500 ).

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

World Nomads offers different coverage levels for its travel insurance options, but both qualify as single trip plans.

Single trip plans are designed for individuals who are leaving their home, visiting another destination (or destinations) and returning home. These travel insurance plans are the most comprehensive and provide benefits like trip cancellation, trip interruption and medical coverage. 

World Nomads is unique amongst other providers as it is a good fit for adventurous travelers. Its plans automatically include coverage for over 200+ activities, including skiing , rafting, backpacking and bouldering. Note that extreme sports are not covered.

All plans include trip protection, emergency medical insurance , emergency evacuation and coverage to protect your gear.

World Nomads offers two plans, with the latter offering higher limits and additional adventure sports coverage.

The plans can be purchased for trip duration up to a maximum 180 days, and you can extend your coverage mid-trip. The price of the policy will depend on the duration of the trip and the countries that you're visiting.

To see the cost of the insurance plan, you will need to input your trip details, your age and state of residence. Unlike many other insurers, you do not need to include the cost of your trip when searching for a World Nomads policy because trip cancellation and interruption benefits are capped at a specific dollar amount rather than a percentage of money spent.

We input a sample trip of a two-week vacation in December 2023 to Italy by a 30-year-old from Illinois.

World Nomads single trip plan cost

Here are some example World Nomads insurance costs based on our example trip.

Standard Plan

The Standard Plan ($86) is a good choice for those who are satisfied with trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $2,500 or less, do not need rental car damage protection, find the limits to be sufficient and do not need coverage for certain adventure sports.

However, this plan still shines in sports coverage, covering activities like wind surfing and bungee jumping, which are seldom covered by travel insurance companies. A full list of covered sports by plan type is available on the World Nomads site.

Explorer Plan

The Explorer Plan ($155) includes all the benefits of the Standard Plan along with higher limits, rental car damage insurance (in the states where it is available) and adventure sports (e.g., skydiving, heli skiing) coverage.

This choice is also good for those whose trips costs less than $10,000 as this is the maximum trip cancellation and interruption protection.

A Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade is not offered by World Nomads. If this option is a must, look for a travel insurance company that offers CFAR.

Selecting the appropriate plan for your travels involves understanding which coverage you’d like on the trip.

If you have a premium travel card : If you have a premium travel card that offers an adequate amount of trip cancellation / interruption benefits, you may only need to get a standalone emergency health care policy. For example, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offers $10,000 per trip and $20,000 per year in trip cancellation benefits . Terms apply. Only the Explorer Plan ($10,000) has a comparable level of trip cancellation protection. Terms apply.

If the coverage provided by your card isn’t adequate or applicable: If you don’t have a premium travel credit card , the coverage provided by your card isn’t sufficient or you didn’t use the card to pay for your trip, then a comprehensive insurance plan like the Standard or Explorer plan might be the best choice.

More chill travelers: If you don’t need adventure sports coverage and your trip costs less than $2,500 (or you already have trip cancellation / interruption benefits from your credit card), the Standard Plan would be sufficient.

» Learn More: How to find the best travel insurance

Go to worldnomads.com and input your trip details.

If your country of residence is the U.S., an additional row will appear asking you to input your state.

» Learn more: Is travel insurance worth it?

Trip insurance plans are filled with exclusions, so you’ll want to pay attention to what is and isn’t covered so there aren’t any surprises. Here are some exclusions you can expect from World Nomads:

Pre-existing conditions: If you’ve sought treatment for any illness or condition in the 90-day period preceding the start of the policy and then seek medical care for the same illness/condition, you may be on the hook for the bill since World Nomads does not cover pre-existing conditions.

Intentional acts: Losses sustained from self-harm, intoxication, drug use or criminal activity are not covered.

Travelers with pre-existing conditions might consider policies from providers like Travel Guard by AIG or Allianz .

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies right now (World Nomads is on the list!)

World Nomads has been offering insurance since 2002. The company is well established and offers two single trip travel insurance policies to fit many different needs.

Both plans offered by World Nomads include trip cancellation, interruption and delays; emergency accident and sickness medical expenses; emergency evacuation; repatriation of remains; non-medical emergency transportation; baggage and personal effects; baggage delay for outward journeys; rental car damage in certain locations; accidental death and dismemberment; Generali Global Assistance; and adventure sports and activities.

World Nomads does not include Cancel For Any Reason coverage, even as an add on.

You will need to file a claim with the insurer after you’ve incurred costs related to a covered expense. If the claim is approved, you will receive a reimbursement. In some instances, such as baggage delay, World Nomads pays you a fixed amount per day rather than 100% coverage for costs incurred.

World Nomads offers some good travel insurance plans for adventurous, single-trip travelers. This is also a good fit for anyone who is uncertain about their trip length (since you can add coverage during your vacation).

Insurance can be extended mid-trip.

You can insure trips up to 180 days in length — which makes it an attractive option for digital nomads .

Adventure sports coverage is more robust than many other plans.

Simple choice of two plans.

Extreme sports are not covered.

There is no annual plan option. A policy ends once you return within 100 miles of home, even if you’re only home briefly as part of a long trip.

Regardless of your trip cost, trip cancellation and interruption coverage is capped at a dollar amount rather than as a percentage of trip cost. The Standard Plan and Explorer Plan cover trips up to $2,500 and $10,000, respectively. If you’re going on a more expensive trip, you won’t be able to protect the entire trip.

You must be 70 years old or younger to qualify for coverage.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

A previous version of this article misstated World Nomads' insurance offerings. This article has been corrected.

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Insurance for nomads

Nomad Insurance is a global travel medical insurance that covers people from all over the world, while outside their home country. You can buy it even if you are already abroad.

Go to Nomad Insurance

Insurance for remote teams

Remote Health is a global health insurance to cover your employees and contractors worldwide under one plan, regardless of where they live. Add or remove members through a user friendly dashboard.

Go to Remote Health

Safetywing is your home country on the internet.

We���re here to remove the role of geographical borders as a barrier to equal opportunities and freedom for everyone .

We are building a global social safety net

The internet has allowed many people to live, work and form communities how they choose — outside the life script of their home country. The first people to take advantage of this opportunity were digital nomads, but now remote work is making this lifestyle more common.

Our products are built and designed by a fully remote team of nomads distributed across three continents. SafetyWing was founded to support nomads like ourselves by building an adaptable software-based safety net for everyone in the world.

Our products

A travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads. It can be purchased while already abroad, covers home trip visits and operates like a monthly subscription.

Remote Health insurance is a fully fledged health insurance for remote teams and entrepreneurs. It gives global companies a truly flexible solution that no other insurance company offers.

A retirement product for globally distributed teams that works in any country to help ensure your employees’ futures.

San Francisco, USA

Oslo, Norway

©2024, Safety Nest, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Best Travel insurance for digital nomads

countries Wherever you travel: We’ll get you covered

days Long-term travel insurance for digital nomads

in average Good insurance doesn’t need to be expensive

Travel, for us, symbolizes freedom. Embracing the unknown means finding your own way — even when the path is unmarked. With NOMADS.insure , you carry a reliable safety net, on even the most unpredictable adventures.

Our global insurance offerings feature plans tailored for nomads and travelers on trips of up to several years. Wherever your explorations take you, proceed with confidence.

With our comprehensive travel insurance options, you’re secure in the knowledge that, should you need it, you have support to return home safely.

Travel insurance covers:

• Diagnosis, treatment and prescriptions in case of of medical emergencies
• Search and Rescue
• Repatriation for major treatments

Advanced plans offer additional cover for:

• Lost, stolen, or damaged luggage
• Trip cancellations or interruptions
• Flight cancellations and delays
• Missed connections and their consequences
• Personal liability

Travel insurance does not cover:

• Treatments after repatriation to your home country

Always sign up for your long-term travel insurance for the maximum duration possible (with good plans 2 or even 5 years), even when you plan to return earlier. Plans change!

And you can always cancel a good travel insurance plan earlier at no cost . But you usually cannot extend it. And surely not if you had a claim before.

Send your inquiry today

Leave your email and we’ll come back to with a personalized suggestion for the perfect travel insurance plan for your digital nomad adventure.

F.A.Q.: Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads

What’s the difference between nomad travel insurance and annual travel insurance?

Digital nomads usually travel for more than 3 months at a time while regular annual travel insurance (e.g. those included in premium credit cards) cover trips of usually up to 30 or 45 days per trip.

Can nomad travel insurance be extended?

Usually travel insurance can’t be extended, especially not if you already had claims with the insurance company. That’s why recommend to always sign up for the maximum possible duration as with the companies brokered through us you can cancel earlier at any time and no cost.

Can nomad travel insurance be cancelled earlier?

Nomads travel insurance from the companies brokered through us can be cancelled earlier at any time and at no cost. Usually you just need to tell the insurance provider that you have returned to your home country (or permanently settled in another country).

What’s the difference between travel insurance and health insurance?

There are two key differences: Travel insurance has a fixed duration and only works on top of health insurance coverage back home. The reason: Travel insurance pays for emergency treatments while you’re traveling but will repatriate you for major or long-term treatments. Health insurance on the other hand does not end (if you don’t cancel or stop paying for it) and – if it’s an international one – covers you wherever you are.

Read more on the difference between travel insurance and health insurance here.

What does nomad travel insurance cost?

Usually – depending on your age and your target destinations – you can assume an amount of between 50 and 100 EUR per month for long-term travel insurance. If you intend to travel to the USA or are older than 60 you should expect higher monthly premiums.

Who can sign up for nomad travel insurance?

Digital nomads who travel more than 3 months and usually up to 2 years can sign up for nomad travel insurance up to an age of 69. For higher ages there are special solutions available. Full-time nomads who don’t return to a home base where they have local health insurance would rather need international health insurance instead of just travel insurance.

Digital Nomads Insurance

World wide health insurance coverage for modern remote entrepreneurs: Our founders are digital nomads themselves and strive to help fellows to solve this issue.

Book a Consultation

We are happy to analyze your needs and the options based on all circumstances in a personal video call. This service is free of charge for you.

Insurance Providers

• Allianz Care
• APRIL International Care
• AXA Global Healthcare
• CareConcept
• Cigna Global Health
• Continentale
• Foyer Global Health
• HanseMerkur
• Insured Nomads
• Morgan Price
• Passportcard
• World Nomads

Insurance broker for digital nomads

European insurance broker licensed in Estonia for insurance intermediary activities across the European Economic Area (EEA).

Herrmann, Huebner & Partner Insurance Broker OÜ Pärnu mnt 388b-1, 11612 Tallinn, Estonia

Managing Director: Christoph Huebner Registry code: 14897643

Full company data: in the legal notice

" * " indicates required fields

The times displayed are Tallinn time (Eastern European Timezone, EE(S)T, GMT+2/+3)

April 24, 2024

Get your free nomad guide now.

Comprehensive guide for digital nomads: Everything insurance.

• 6 important questions to ask yourself
• 3 types of nomads: Which one are you?
• The right solution for every plan and budget
• Easy to read PDF with a decision tree  and checklists

Brokers Mandate: 3 good reasons

• A professional insurance expert (and digital nomads) on your side towards the insurance provider
• 2nd pair of eyeballs: Ongoing documents check & claims support during the contract duration
• At no extra cost for you (this service is paid for by the insurance company)

We are happy to offer our brokers services for your existing contract. Just fill the fields and we will create the document for you shortly. We will then initiate the digital signature workflow and process it with the insurer.

Instant Quote Calculator

If you want to read through the documents before a consultation: Prefect. We like educated clients.

There's a world of trips out there. Bring us with you .  Let’s go!

Don't travel unprotected! Complete the form for a free travel insurance quote Don't travel unprotected! Complete the form for a free travel insurance quote

Fill out the form to get a health insurace quote fill out the form to get a health insurace quote.

All our partners offer

Co mpetitive rates, comprehensive coverage, easy to use online quoting and purchasing system, comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and more, variety of add-on options to customize your policy, easy to purchase and renew online, 24/7 customer support, peace of mind knowing that you are protected in the event of an emergency, financial assistance to help you get back on your feet if your trip is interrupted, reimbursement for lost or damaged luggage, access to a 24/7 customer support team, our partners also provide a variety of additional coverage options, such as travel delays,, emergency medical evacuation, and assistance in case of lost passport., to obtain a quote, simply click on the link of the plan you choose., you will receive a quote within minutes from the company you have selected., travel insurance.

Atlas Travel® Insurance

Short-term travel health insurance for individuals traveling outside of their home country

Global+Rescue

Wander the World Without Worry

Digital Nomads Travel Insurance

Every country. Any doctor or hospital. We've got you covered.

Simple & Flexible

Simple & flexible trip insurance for international or domestic travel.

Buy & claim from anywhere in the world.

🌍 Travel Insurance Assistance 🛡️

Are you facing issues trying to obtain travel insurance in Canada or Australia ? 🤔 Stay calm – we've got you covered!

🚫 Canadian or Australian Territory Alert: 🍁 Due to Canadian or Australian regulations, it's not possible to get travel insurance from within the country.

Here are quick solutions:

1️⃣ Purchase on Arrival: No worries! Get travel insurance when you arrive at your first destination or if you've already crossed the border. Stay compliant with Canadian and Australian rules and enjoy coverage throughout your journey.

2️⃣ Declare Your Overseas Status: Specify your location as outside Canada or Australia when applying for insurance. This alternative solution might be the key to securing the coverage you need.

3️⃣ In-Flight Insurance Purchase: Take advantage of in-flight internet services to buy travel insurance while airborne. If the airline offers internet access during the flight, you can conveniently secure coverage while cruising at altitude. Ensure a worry-free journey with coverage from takeoff to landing.

Adventure awaits! 🌐✈️

Health Insurance

Digital Nomads  Health Insurance

Student Secure

International student health insurance for students pursuing their education outside of their home country

USA Residents Only USA Residents Only

Disclaimers:

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Plan features listed here are high level, provided for your convenience and information purpose only. Please review the Evidence of Coverage and Plan Contract (Policy) for a detailed description of Coverage Benefits, Limitations and Exclusions. Must read the Policy Brochure and Plan Details for complete and accurate details. Only the Terms and Conditions of Coverage Benefits listed in the policy are binding.

WorldTrips Producer Number: Alliance Parcel  28225-001

• [email protected]
• +1.205.767.0507 | +44 (0) 20 3514 1337

• Travel Medical
• Trip Protection
• Annual Multi Trip
• Group Travel Benefits
• Warzone Cover: Ukraine
• Group Health Insurance
• Social Impact
• Broker Resources
• Podcast – The New Nomad
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Insurance for Remote Workers, Modern Companies, & Global Travelers

Future of work & travel.

Designing and delivering plans for your health, success, and financial security.

A Bridge to Global Protection

Travel insurance, smart benefits solutions - built for you to live, work, and play wherever you are - get travel insurance now, robust coverage to reduce the uncertainty peace of mind beyond the policy travel the world with confidence and protection.

Single Trip Coverage

World explorer, travel medical insurance for trips 7 to 364 days, perfect for vacations, work travel, and more. as low as $2.87 per day..

Trip Protection Insurance

World explorer guardian, trip cancellation travel insurance, medical, evacuation, benefits and more. currently eligible for us residents only.

Taking multiple trips this year?

World explorer multi, for when you are taking short trips and returning to your home country between trips..

Warzone Coverage

World explorer hotspot, uniquely designed travel insurance for areas of conflict, warzones, or hotspots such as afghanistan, israel, sudan & ukraine..

Seamless Global Benefits

Health insurance.

Group Health Plan

Employee benefits and international health insurance for modern companies & organizations, inc: smart travel tool at your fingertips.

12-month INC membership that provides in-app benefits including mental health support, cyber risk protection, and perks around the world such as airport lounge access & and so much more.

*Included with all policies

What our members say:

Explore our blog.

Unraveling the Insurance & Duty of Care Quandary for Digital Nomads

Balancing work and personal life as a digital nomad

Backpacker’s Guide to Navigating Travel Insurance 

Everything You Need to Know About the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) 

Travel insurance plans.

World Explorer : Best if you have short-term workations, business trips, leisure vacation, or something similar. Primarily for travel medical coverage from 7 days up to 364 days. Choose from your desired medical maximum, deductible, and preferred area of coverage.

World Explorer Guardian : U.S. residents only. Best if you are traveling overseas and need more than just short-term medical coverage. We will protect your trip from trip cancellations, medical needs, evacuation, travel benefits and more. 50, 250, and 500 plans are in line with their respective amounts of medical maximum coverage: $50,000, $250,000, and $500,000. Choose from your desired medical maximum, deductible, and preferred area of coverage.

World Explorer Multi : Best if you know your travel plans for the year and come back home in between trips. Coverage is the same as World Explorer

World Explorer Hotspot : Our warzone insurance plan if you plan on going into an area of conflict. Whether you are reporting the news in Afghanistan, conducting humanitarian aid in Iraq, or caring for the needs of others in Sudan, we’ve got your back & may the force be with you.

• Travel Insurance

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WAS Discovery Travel Insurance Review: Features, Pros and Cons

Updated: Apr 17, 2024, 9:08am

Reviewed By

The Discovery Plan from WAS Travel Insurance could be a good choice for Aussies looking for a no-frills travel insurance policy. However, it only offers a number of standard features of comprehensive policies as optional add-ons and that can make the policy much more expensive than first meets the eye. Regardless, its unlimited medical cover, high age limit of 99 years, and positive customer reviews makes it a viable option for those in the market for a medically focused, no-frills travel insurance policy.

Related: Best Comprehensive Travel Insurance Providers for Australian

• Unlimited medical
• Generous dental of $2,000
• High age limit
• Luggage and cancellation cover not automatic
• Children not included
• More expensive than competitors

Table of Contents

• Featured Partner Offers

About WAS Travel Insurance

What does was travel insurance cover, does was travel insurance cover me for covid, was pricing comparison, was customer service, the bottom line.

Featured Partners

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Wise And Silent Travel Insurance, known as WAS, is a Brisbane-based travel insurance company that offers “tailored coverage” to its customers. This tailoring differs from the standard comprehensive travel insurance policies on the market, which usually have a set minimum for standard inclusions for policies, such as lost luggage cover and cancellations.

WAS Travel Insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, an Australian insurance company based in Newcastle. While WAS isn’t listed on ProductReview, it has scored a 4.7 star review on TrustPilot from an albeit small number of 39 customer reviews.

Customers highlighted WAS’ staff communication, the ease of applying for coverage, and a “smooth and efficient” claims process.

WAS offers two types of plans, Covid Essentials and Discovery Plan. For the purpose of this review, we analysed the comprehensive option, the Discovery Plan.

As stated, WAS Travel Insurance works a little differently to most travel insurers. Its comprehensive policy is known as the ‘Discovery Plan’, which is available to those aged up to 99 years old and includes unlimited medical in its base cover.

For families travelling together, it’s important to note that children can be added to the policy at a lower rate, but they are not included within a parent/guardians policy as is the industry norm.

Once you start to add to the base cover, WAS Travel Insurance becomes even more complex, with only a handful of medical outcomes covered as standard and far more classified as optional.

For example, credit card fraud is not covered as a standard inclusion; instead, unauthorised use of credit cards can be covered as part of luggage and personal effects, should the policyholder choose to take out this optional extra. Personal liability is not covered automatically, but needs to be selected for coverage up to $2.5 million.

Any trip cancellations are only covered up to the amount chosen by the customer (ranging from $1,000 to $40,000 per customer) and travel delays are covered as optional extras, up to $2,000 per customer. Delays are reimbursed at a rate of $50 per six hours, which is below the industry standard of $200 for every six hours, however no excess applies to these claims. (For missed flight connections, these are only covered should the policyholder choose to add travel interruption cover to their plan.

Rental vehicle excess is also an optional add-on, with the maximum cover of $6,000 for those looking to hire a car during their holiday. In many policies this is covered as standard and does not require the traveller to add it as an optional extra.

Lost Luggage

When it comes to lost luggage, those with WAS Discovery Travel Insurance will need to choose it as an add-on as they are not automatically covered. The lowest option is $1000, while the highest is $10,000 (per traveller).

WAS will only cover an individual item to a limit of $1,000.

WAS Travel Insurance include unlimited medical cover within its comprehensive policy, which extends to additional expenses such as transportation to a medical facility or, in the necessary event, back to Australia.

There is also cover for a medical companion to stay with you during treatment and/or necessary medical-related travel, even if they themselves are not listed on your policy.

Certain pre-existing conditions are also covered if they meet the necessary criteria. The 44 automatically covered conditions include anxiety and depression, diabetes, sleep apnoea and many more.

Other conditions outside of the pre-existing conditions list will not be covered by WAS Travel Insurance.

Covid-19 is included in the unlimited medical cover, which is explained in further depth below.

Is Dental Cover Included?

Dental cover is included in the WAS Travel Insurance Discovery Plan, but not under the unlimited medical expenses. Instead, there is up to $2,000 covered for emergency dental treatment, which is more generous than most insurance policies, which generally top put at $1,000.

Yes, WAS Travel Insurance includes Covid-19 medical expenses within its unlimited medical coverage. It also includes cancellations related to Covid-19, however, that is dependent on how much cancellation cover the policyholder requests.

Related: Travel Insurance And Covid: Are You Covered?

What About Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is covered by WAS Travel Insurance there are unexpected serious complications of pregnancy occuring:

• Up to the 24th week of pregnancy if you’re pregnant with a single child; or
• Up to the 19th week of pregnancy if you’re pregnant with twins or multiple children.

The exclusions include childbirth; the healthcare of a newborn child; pregnancies with existing complications; or pregnancies in which the person has previously had complications with previous pregnancies.

What About Sports and Activities?

WAS covers a range of sports and activities, however, rather than specifying what is covered, it provides a list of the excluded activities being:

• Snow sports;
• Motorcycle or moped riding;
• Racing (except on foot);
• Polo playing;
• Mountain climbing requiring the use of equipment such as pick-axes, anchors, bolts, crampons, carabiners, lead or top-rope anchoring or other specialist equipment;
• Motor sport or motor racing (including training or practice);
• Running with the bulls;
• Professional sports (including training or practice);
• Parachuting, hang-gliding or paragliding; or
• Scuba diving, unless you hold an open water diving certificate or diving with a qualified diving instructor

However, policyholders can choose to add additional adventure packs—snow, motor and cruise—which will then cover them for those sports.

WAS Travel Insurance prides itself on offering budget-friendly insurance policies to Australians; however, the cost of a policy with WAS isn’t as clear cut as many others—largely due to the many different inclusions that one needs to opt-in to.

Forbes Advisor Australia has run quotes against two of our top picks of travel insurance providers for Australians— Travel Insurance Direct and Allianz Travel Insurance —to compare the prices of WAS Travel Insurance when opting-in for a level of cover similar to what these two competitors offer automatically.

As Bali is a top destination for many Aussies, the data below is based on a 28-year-old Australian travelling to Indonesia for a week.

Related: A Guide To Travel Insurance For Bali

This analysis does not include other additional costs that would need to be considered, including sports cover, children travelling, pre-existing medical conditions and so on.

As you can see from the table above, opting in for the same level of cover that is offered as standard by competitors makes the WAS Travel Insurance policy the most expensive of the three.

It’s important to note that policy prices for travel insurance will change for a range of factors, including age, destination, length of trip and any specific needs required by the traveller. The above data is to be used as a guide only.

From the limited reviews online, WAS’ customer service staff members have been hailed as being “very patient and helpful”, with their knowledge “making the experience [of submitting a claim] much less stressful”.

WAS can be contacted by phone or email, with different email addresses and phone numbers unique to the service required (emergency assistance, claims, or general enquiries). The full list can be found online here .

Customers can also submit a form online to be emailed back, and are able to submit claims online or over the phone.

WAS may be a risky choice for some customers who choose to opt-out of the optional extra cover for the sake of saving money and end up being under-insured. Some travellers may not realise the importance of personal liability insurance and fail to select it, which could land them in hot water if an accident was to occur overseas. As a comparison, most other insurers include personal liability insurance as standard in their comprehensive policy: Travel Insurance Direct offers $2.5 million in personal liability, while Allianz offers $5 million—with caveats around snow and adventure packs.

Nevertheless, WAS may be attractive to budget travellers who are happy with a no-frills policy, but want to ensure they’re covered for the basics of medical and dental.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is was travel insurance good.

WAS Travel Insurance did not make Forbes Advisor Australia’s top picks for comprehensive travel insurance , but that doesn’t mean it’s not a good option for Aussies looking for international cover. The comprehensive policy offered by WAS is a build-your-own type of plan, meaning it is tailored to the customer individually in terms of cancellation cover, luggage cover, rental car excess and more.

It may be suitable for budget-conscious travellers looking for a no-frills policy that is focused on medical and dental. However, it’s worth noting that when compared to other insurers on the market, WAS ended up being more expensive once the add-ons were included in the quote.

From 38 customer reviews on TrustPilot, WAS received a rating of 4.7 stars.

What policies does WAS Travel Insurance offer?

WAS Travel Insurance offers two policies: Covid Essentials and Discovery. The Discovery Plan is what would be considered its ‘comprehensive’ offering, considering it allows customers to tailor the plan to suit their needs.

How much does WAS Travel Insurance cost?

The cost of WAS Travel Insurance—like any travel insurance provider—is dependent on many factors: your age, your destination, the length of your trip, and any personal requirements such as higher lost luggage cover for specific equipment or items, whether or not you need cover for certain sports and activities, any pre-existing conditions you need covered, and more.

From a quote Forbes Advisor Australia ran of a 28-year-old going to Bali for one week, paying an excess of $250 and opting in to $2000 of cancellation cover, $10,000 of lost luggage cover, and rental car excess, the total WAS quote came to $141.80, which was higher than competitors.

Related: How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

Sophie Venz is an experienced editor and features reporter, and has previously worked in the small business and start-up reporting space. Previously the Associate Editor of SmartCompany site, Sophie has worked closely with finance experts and columnists around Australia and internationally. Sophie grew up on the Gold Coast and now lives in Melbourne.

• Best Comprehensive Travel Insurance
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• Pregnancy Travel Insurance Guide
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This European Country Offers a Digital Nomad Visa for Remote Workers — How to Apply

Here's what you need to know before applying for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa.

Eligibility Requirements

Why spain is great for digital nomads, how to apply, moving to spain, traveling around spain.

Tempura/Getty Images

Remote work is here to stay, and millions of people are embracing the work-from-anywhere lifestyle, often referred to as being a “digital nomad.” In fact, some sources estimate that there will be around one billion digital nomads around the world by 2035. And thousands of those nomads may be headed to Spain. 

In 2023, Spain introduced its Digital Nomad Visa, which allows foreigners to live in the nation as residents if they are working remotely for a company based outside of Spain or are self-employed and exclusively use a computer or telecommunication system to work.

Ready to learn more? Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering applying for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa. 

Those looking to apply for Spain's Digital Nomad Visa are required to provide proof of income that is “at least 200 percent of the monthly Spanish national minimum wage,” which is approximately $2,704 per month or $32,479 per year, Spain’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website explains . If the applicant travels with family, the first family member must prove “additional financial means of at least 75 percent of the Spanish minimum wage,” or about $1,100 a month. Each additional applicant must show proof of 25 percent of the Spanish national minimum wage. 

Applicants must also show a copy of their university degree or professional certificate, confirming that the applicant has “at least three years of experience in his/her business activity” and show proof of working for a foreign company for at least three months prior to applying. 

There is also one special caveat for those who are self-employed: “He/she can also work for a company located in Spain, as long as the percentage of this particular work does not exceed 20 percent of the total amount of his/her professional activity,” the ministry explained. 

Additionally, applicants must show proof of health insurance that is valid in Spain. Digital Nomad Visa holders will not have access to Spain’s public healthcare system. There are, however, companies entirely dedicated to digital nomad health insurance . 

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

The benefits of working and living in Spain are pretty endless — and I’m speaking from experience. As someone who lived there in 2010, long before the term “digital nomad” existed, and now lives in its next-door country of Portugal, I can personally attest to how magnificent the historic sites, the food, and the culture really are in Spain. But you don’t need to just take my word for it. 

“For me, the main draws of Spain as a digital nomad destination are the low cost of living, the beautiful Mediterranean climate, and the vibrant culture,” Allison Sicking, the travel blogger behind Viva La Travelista , shared. Originally from the United States, Sicking spent time in Mexico as a digital nomad before working her way through the Digital Nomad Visa process in Spain. “I studied abroad in Spain in 2011 and absolutely fell in love with the country and the no pasa nada way of life. I knew from that experience that I wanted to live there one day, and now as a digital nomad, I have the opportunity to make that dream a reality. Plus, having easy access to other European countries for weekend getaways is a major plus.” 

The cost of living is also an attractive reason to go for this visa. According to Expatistan’s calculator , the cost of living in the United States is 62 percent more expensive than living in Spain. Food is about 40 percent more expensive in the U.S. than in Spain, while housing is a whopping 105 percent more expensive in the U.S. 

But you really won’t sacrifice any quality of life for these prices. After all, you’re trading in a more expensive lifestyle for the chance to live in a place that values rest, late-night dining, and savoring great wine — plus, some potential tax savings. 

“One of the greatest appeals of the Spain Digital Nomad Visa is access to an improved Non-Resident Income Tax Regime ,” Patricia Palacios, the co-founder of España Guide , a travel guide dedicated to promoting her home country of Spain, explained. “As a result, Digital Nomad Visa holders can pay a 24 percent flat tax rate on income, instead of the standard progressive rate (which can reach 48 percent). You can take advantage of this special rate for up to five years.” 

The process of applying for a Digital Nomad Visa isn’t hard, per se, but there is a fee and a lot of documentation involved, and everything has to be precise. This includes the aforementioned proof of employment or business ownership, financial statements showing proof of income, proof of health insurance coverage that specifically covers any medical costs in Spain, and a criminal background check. After submission, the approval process can take several months, so plan accordingly.

“Another advantage of the Spain Digital Nomad Visa is that you can apply both from abroad or from Spain,” Palacios explained. “If you are abroad, you first need to apply for a visa at the nearest Spanish embassy or consulate . This visa is valid for one year, and afterward, you’re eligible for a two-year renewable residence permit.” 

Or, as Palacios shared, if you’re already legally in Spain (which you can do on a tourist visa for up to 90 days as an American citizen), you can apply directly for a three-year visa. The application can be done online through the electronic office of the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration .

“Either way, after renewing the visa for a total of five years, you can apply for permanent residence. And, after 10 years, there is a pathway to Spanish citizenship,” Palacios added. 

Once you’re all approved, you’ll need to visit your local police station in Spain, where they’ll take fingerprints and issue your residence card, which has an additional cost of about 15€ (around $16).

“Regarding the processing time, it takes around two months when applying from abroad. It’s usually about half that time when applying from Spain,” Palacios added.

Palacios shared one more tip: Use the application time as a great excuse to come on an extended vacation, and maybe start exploring which neighborhood you want to call home in Spain. 

“Even though it’s possible to apply from abroad, it’s a bit easier and much faster to apply while in Spain,” Palacios said. “Just enter the country with a tourist visa and apply on arrival.”

Once you’ve obtained a visa, it’s time to start looking for a place to live. The housing market in Spain varies greatly by city and by season, just like in the U.S. 

In major cities like Madrid and Barcelona , it’s common to find apartment rentals on local listing sites like Idealista or Fotocasa. As Housing Anywhere broke down, the average private room in Madrid will cost around €575 (about $660), a studio apartment is about €990 ($1,070), and a one-bedroom apartment is around €1,500 ($1,625).

However, the website warns that “the accommodation hunt in Madrid is fierce,” especially during the end of summer and beginning of fall with incoming students also moving to the city. According to the site, “The high demand also makes the prices go up. So the best advice we can give you would be to start your housing search as early as May.” 

It's also a good idea to learn some Spanish before you move. “Not everyone speaks English, and knowing the language will help daily,” Timon van Basten, a digital nomad in Spain who runs Travel Spain 24 , shared. Van Basten said you can use those new language skills to make friends with locals or other expats, too. “There are many digital nomad and expat groups in Spain for support and socializing.” 

Additionally, van Basten says (and I concur) that it’s critical to lean into Spanish culture and its unique pace of life. “Spain has a more relaxed lifestyle, including the siesta tradition, which might take some getting used to,” van Basten added. 

Bogdan Angheloiu/Getty Images

Once you’re in Spain, it’s easy to get out and explore. The nation’s high-speed trains and extensive bus network make it simple and affordable to go see the intricate palaces of Andalusia, the modernist landmarks of Catalonia, the beaches along the eastern coast, and more. 

There are also plenty of festivals digital nomads can take part in around Spain, including the famed La Tomatina — or “tomato throwing” — in August and the Running of the Bulls in July. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Spain, including exploring the hiking trails of the Pyrenees, surfing the northern coast of Basque Country, and kiteboarding in Tarifa.