Nomad travel insurance is aimed at digital nomads and long-term travelers. It covers potential issues like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and travel delays. Nomad travel insurance includes benefits such as emergency medical expenses and routine care, which helps travelers explore new countries while protecting themselves against unexpected costs and challenges.
This guide provides a comprehensive and detailed overview of the best digital nomad travel insurance, including what to consider before choosing an insurance plan that works for you. Here is more of what we will cover:
What is nomad travel insurance?
Nomad travel insurance is a type of insurance designed specifically for digital nomads and long-term travelers. It provides coverage for a range of potential issues that can arise while traveling, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and travel delays.
This insurance typically includes benefits like emergency medical expenses, repatriation, and coverage for routine care. It allows travelers to explore different countries while protecting them from unexpected costs and challenges, making it essential for those living a nomadic lifestyle.
Nomad travel insurance provides a safety net, helping to reduce financial risks from travel mishaps. Whether traveling for fun or work, these plans protect against unexpected issues, allowing travelers to enjoy their experiences without constant worry.
Outside of nomad travel insurance, many other services make the lives of digital nomads easier, like the introduction of the Digital Nomad Visa. This is aimed at remote workers living in a foreign country working for a company or clients outside that country. Several countries offer this attractive visa; some popular ones to look out for are the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa and the Italy Digital Nomad Visa.
The Nine Best Travel Insurance for Nomads
The following insurance providers are some of the main players in the market. They are considered some of the best travel insurance companies for nomads, and each of them provides extensive coverage. However, each insurance company has pros and cons.
1. World Nomads
Founded by former nomads for nomads, World Nomads has quickly established itself on the market and rightfully earned the trust of frequent globetrotters. The insurer is endorsed by well-known travel authorities such as Lonely Planet, National Geographic, and Rough Guides.
World Nomads has become a model for other travel insurance companies by offering travel guides and supporting sustainable projects through its innovative approach.
Benefits of World Nomads
World Nomads’ standard travel package includes medical emergencies and evacuation, lost luggage, theft of personal belongings and electronics, trip cancellation coverage, catastrophic events, assault, and repatriation.
World Nomads offers an inclusive policy for people from 150 countries.- All claims can be processed online, with a short processing time, making it ideal for nomads who are always on the go.
- Your insurance policy can be bought and extended indefinitely online.
- There’s no time limit on how long you can stay insured with World Nomads, which is great for long-term travelers.
- Great coverage for a reasonable price.
- Additional coverage is available for adventure sports, even for the most adventurous travelers. Their Explorer Package lets you choose from a list of activities and countries, so you can easily choose the activities and places you’re most interested in. What’s more, you can verify on their website if your chosen activity is covered before you sign up for it.
- Their website is easy to navigate, and their customer service team is friendly and responsive.
World Nomads’ standard travel package includes medical emergencies and evacuation, lost luggage, theft of personal belongings and electronics, trip cancellation coverage, catastrophic events, assault, and repatriation.Drawbacks of World Nomads
- World Nomads don’t offer primary health insurance, which means you need separate coverage in your country. This could be problematic for nomads without a permanent residence for healthcare.
- World Nomads works with various local insurance providers, resulting in diverse policy terms, prices, and benefits based on your residence. It’s therefore important that you carefully read your country-specific policy.
- Their Standard Insurance Package excludes activities such as scuba diving, so you will have to get extra and pricier coverage.
- Motorcycle and scooter accidents aren’t covered without a valid international motorbike license. This is significant if Southeast Asia travel is in your plans due to high accident rates with these vehicles.
- You’re only covered for a single trip home, so this insurance policy may not be ideal for those who travel home frequently to visit family.
- World Nomads has age restrictions on their policies making it less inclusive than other insurance providers.
2. IMG Global
IMG offers comprehensive and inclusive insurance packages at highly competitive rates, making it a standout choice for many nomads. IMG especially carters to adventurous travelers who are attracted to remote, exotic, or underdeveloped destinations.
Their iTravelInsured and Travel LX Insurance plans are a must for adventurers seeking full insurance while enjoying their favorite activities across the globe. Equally excellent is their medical insurance for digital nomads, catering to those who are globally mobile or spend substantial time abroad.
Benefits of IMG
- Tailored for adventurers, the LX plan is the ultimate choice for thrill-seekers who take part in helicopter tours, scuba diving, or rock climbing. With a $10,000 search and rescue coverage, it safeguards against unexpected incidents.
- Their medical coverage is generous. With a remarkable $500,000 limit, the plan alleviates concerns of huge medical bills due to illness or injury. Furthermore, a $1 million cap on medical evacuation adds an extra layer of security.
- Top-notch customer service is a vital part of the company. Swift responses through phone or live chat, delivered by patient and helpful staff, make the experience in a potentially stressful situation more bearable.
- In comparison, policy extensions or renewals are remarkably cost-effective. This aspect is especially attractive for long-term travelers.
Drawbacks of IMG
- Customers frequently complain that claims processing is slow and overly bureaucratic.
- Compared to other key providers, IMG has longer waiting periods before you can claim for trip cancellations or baggage delays, which can cause significant inconvenience.
- Travel insurance packages have limited scope. For instance, adding adventure sports coverage to the standard plan isn’t an option, so you must choose LX cover even for basic outdoor activities.
- You must buy two separate packages to get medical cover and protection for lost luggage, trip cancellations, and other travel-related aspects.
- IMG’s travel health insurance doesn’t serve as primary health insurance, meaning nomads need coverage in their home country.
- If you stay over 14 days in your home country, your policy becomes invalid. US citizens can’t return home at all.
- Direct billing is unsupported. It requires you to personally cover medical expenses and await reimbursement after the claim has been processed.
3. John Hancock Insurance Agency
The John Hancock Insurance Agency offers all-inclusive coverage bundles tailored to solo travelers and nomads. With a strong reputation and outstanding customer feedback, opting for their services seems like a choice you can make with huge confidence.
Benefits of John Hancock
- John Hancock provides essential coverage in line with the standards upheld by reputable travel insurers. This includes medical protection, round-the-clock worldwide assistance, and support during travel-related crises such as adverse weather, missed connections, personal or familial illness, labor strikes, protests, and other unforeseen incidents that might disrupt your plans.
The insurance policy is presented in clear and straightforward language. Each category of coverage is precisely outlined, supplemented by further explanations to ensure the policy remains easy to navigate. This uncomplicated approach to the contractual terms equips you with a precise understanding of what to anticipate in any given situation.- The medical coverage options are diverse to accommodate all kinds of budgets. The most economical plan, Bronze, offers $50,000 for emergency medical insurance and $250,000 for medical evacuations. For those seeking more coverage, there are two upgrade options: Silver and Gold, both of which offer significantly higher coverage limits.
- John Hancock’s exceptional customer service means one less concern when confronted with emergencies while abroad, particularly when traveling solo. Its friendly and patient staff is well-versed in its policies and ready to provide immediate assistance.
Drawbacks of John Hancock
- The only limitation of John Hancock is its exclusion of coverage for adventurous and “extreme” sports. In such instances, John Hancock might not be right for you. If you’re likely to take part in adventure activities only some of the time, you’re better off opting for trip-specific insurance, which could also save you money.
4. Allianz Global Assistance
With a well-established history of excellent service, this insurance provider offers a variety of packages tailored to cater to individuals with diverse needs, goals, and travel arrangements. The company is known for it’s exceptional service to travelers and the benefits and coverage offered.
Benefits of Allianz
- Allianz provides coverage for a duration of up to a year, which might not immediately seem extensive for a nomadic lifestyle. However, this is more than many other travel insurers offer, with several capping coverage at just three months.
- For those embarking on global adventures, the OneTrip Premier Plan is a strong choice, including all the essential coverage a nomad might require.
- For nomads who have a home base, Allianz Global Assistance offers annual plans that ensure uninterrupted coverage in the form of a multi-tip plan for year-long international journeys across multiple countries. Although the AllTrips Executive Plan is more expensive, its annual fee guarantees dependable coverage and peace of mind for an entire year.
- Allianz’ medical coverage is generous, extending to a maximum of $2 million for emergency evacuation.
- Cover for all important areas of global travel is provided. Stolen luggage is covered up to $500, while trip delay coverage goes to $150 per day for flight delays attributed to adverse weather, natural disasters, or other critical circumstances.
Drawbacks of Allianz
- The quality of customer service has been sketchy in the past, although some improvements have been made.
- Most packages lack the option for customization. Features like canceling for any reason are notably absent here.
- There is no coverage for adventurous activities and “extreme” sports.
- More expensive insurance plans are not suitable for everyone.
- Some policy terms depend on your country of residence.
- You have to buy the insurance before you travel, which may be unsuitable for some nomads.
5. Safety Wing
Despite being a relatively new company, Safety Wing has quickly become a favorite among numerous digital nomads, long-term travelers, and freelancers who maintain a mobile lifestyle.
One of the biggest plus points is their provision of primary health insurance. Given that many nomads have severed ties with their home country’s residency, Safety Wing presents a valuable alternative.
Benefits of Safety Wing
- You don’t have to be a resident of your home country to buy their insurance, making it especially advantageous for those without a permanent home.
- It has exceptionally budget-friendly pricing, with nomads under the age of 39 reaping the most benefits from these cost-effective plans.
- Safety Wing offers the flexibility of monthly payments, a bonus for freelancers and entrepreneurs with fluctuating monthly incomes.
- One of the standout features of their client interface is the auto-renewal option, operating similarly to subscription services, granting you the freedom to cancel at your convenience. Moreover, while the policy doesn’t have an actual end date, you have the ability to set one as per your preference.
- Safety Wing has a user-friendly website with clear policy wording to avoid any misunderstandings.
- You’re covered to your home country’s border and are allowed a 30-day home visit without invalidating the insurance.
- Safety Wing’s insurance includes everything you can expect from a reputable travel insurance provider, including trip interruption and cancellation, evacuation costs during natural disasters or political turmoil, baggage claims, and more.
- Medical coverage includes access to private hospitals and doctors, a huge advantage when navigating developing nations or regions with underdeveloped public healthcare systems.
- The company supports direct billing for a substantial network of global hospitals and clinics.
Drawbacks of Safety Wing
- Safety Wing provides emergency medical cover up to $250,000, which is generally sufficient for most nomads, except for those involved in high-risk activities.
- Activities with a substantial risk of injuries, such as high-altitude trekking, football, scuba diving, and ice hockey, are not included.
- Insurance for motorbike and scooter accidents applies solely if you possess a valid license.
6. True Traveller
True Traveller is a top-tier global travel insurance provider tailored for nomads, especially from the United Kingdom and various European nations. Their comprehensive insurance offering is focused on meeting the needs of nomads and travelers who love diverse adventures in different countries.
Benefits of True Traveller
- The company includes a broad spectrum of adventurous activities in its insurance options.
- True Traveller offers cover up to £5 million ($6.3 million).
- You can buy their insurance when you’re already traveling.
- They offer round-the-clock global medical assistance.
- You can personalize any of their standard plans.
- Their plans are value for money, with extra discounts for annual insurance cover.
- You can make unlimited home visits.
Drawbacks of True Traveller
- You can’t get insurance from True Traveller if you’re not living within the EEA (European Economic Area).
- Their basic plan coverage is limited, and buying supplements may be quite expensive.
- When you visit home, you’re not covered under their policy.
- The company doesn’t offer a direct billing feature.
- Their medical coverage option excludes private hospitals and doctors unless public healthcare is unavailable.
7. AXA Global Healthcare
AXA Global Healthcare offers international health insurance for remote workers, digital nomads, and expats. Its plans provide extensive healthcare coverage for those living and working abroad, focusing on medical services, prescription drugs, and hospital treatments. AXA’s global network ensures access to a wide range of healthcare providers across many countries, making it a reliable choice for long-term stays in multiple destinations.
Benefits of AXA Global Healthcare
- AXA offers broad coverage, including medical emergencies, prescription medications, inpatient and outpatient care, and hospital treatments.
- Access to a vast network of healthcare providers around the world makes it easy to find care in many countries.
- AXA’s insurance plans are customizable to fit individual needs, including options for dental care, mental health services, and preventive care.
- They provide round-the-clock support for medical emergencies, ensuring quick responses when needed.
Drawbacks of AXA Global Healthcare
- AXA’s comprehensive coverage can be more expensive compared to other digital nomad insurance options, especially for higher-tier plans.
- Some users report the claims process can be complicated and time-consuming.
- Certain high-risk activities or pre-existing conditions may not be covered unless additional options are selected.
8. GeoBlue
GeoBlue provides international health insurance plans designed for digital nomads, expats, and frequent travelers. It offers access to a wide range network of healthcare providers worldwide and emphasizes preventive care and telemedicine services. GeoBlue’s policies are backed by Blue Cross Blue Shield, making it a recognized and reliable choice for those working remotely in different countries.
Benefits of GeoBlue
- GeoBlue connects users to a wide range of doctors and healthcare facilities worldwide, ensuring easy access to care in most regions.
- Coverage includes routine checkups and preventive services, which is a strong advantage for those focused on maintaining health while abroad.
- Remote consultations with doctors are available, making it convenient for digital nomads to access medical advice from anywhere.
- GeoBlue offers flexible plan options, allowing users to tailor coverage to their specific needs, including emergency evacuation and mental health services.
Drawbacks of GeoBlue
- GeoBlue’s extensive coverage and benefits often come at a higher cost compared to more basic digital nomad insurance options.
- While global, GeoBlue’s plans are particularly suited to U.S. citizens or those planning frequent trips to the U.S., making it less ideal for non-U.S. nationals.
- Some users find the claims process can be slow, particularly for non-emergency treatments.
9. Aetna International
Aetna International specializes in comprehensive international health insurance, making it a great choice for long-term digital nomads. It offers great coverage for medical expenses, hospital stays, chronic conditions, and preventive care. Aetna is also known for its global network of healthcare providers.
Benefits of Aetna International
- Aetna covers a wide range of medical services, including chronic conditions, hospitalization, routine checkups, and emergency care, ensuring digital nomads have extensive protection.
- With a vast network of hospitals and doctors worldwide, Aetna makes it easy for travelers to find care in various regions.
- Aetna focuses on ongoing health issues like diabetes and hypertension, making it ideal for those who need long-term care while abroad.
- In addition to physical health coverage, Aetna includes wellness programs and mental health services, which are valuable for maintaining overall well-being during long-term travel.
Drawbacks of Aetna International
- The comprehensive nature of Aetna’s plans can lead to higher premiums, which may not be cost-effective for those seeking basic or short-term coverage.
- Some users find Aetna’s policy documents lengthy and difficult to navigate, leading to confusion over what is covered.
- Aetna is better suited for long-term digital nomads, with fewer options for those seeking temporary or short-term coverage.
To learn more about the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa
Why get worldwide travel insurance?
Travel insurance for nomads is a smart choice for those exploring the world. It helps cover the costs of medical emergencies, including evacuations, so you can get the care you need without worrying about high bills.
To put it into perspective, these are the reasons why worldwide travel insurance is advisable:
Medical coverage
Medical coverage while traveling helps cover emergency medical evacuations, routine medical care, doctor visits, and hospital stays. This type of travel medical insurance is essential for digital nomads who might not have access to affordable local healthcare. Many plans even include adventure sports coverage, so travelers can avoid big out-of-pocket expenses if an accident happens.
Emergency evacuation
Anything can happen, and it’s important to have an insurance plan that covers the cost of transporting you to the nearest hospital or back to your home country in case of a severe medical emergency. This benefit ensures you can access appropriate medical care, even in remote or under-resourced locations.
Lost or stolen belongings
When traveling the world, you carry several valuable things, and having coverage that protects against the loss, theft, or damage of valuable items like luggage, electronics, and work equipment is vital. Dealing with the stress of lost items is enough, so having the means to make quick replacements helps minimize interruptions to your work and personal life.
Travel disruptions
If you are a frequent traveler then delayed flights are nothing new, but they come with a lot stress and additional costs. Opting for coverage that will reimburse for expenses resulting from canceled or delayed flights, accommodation, or missed connections is another important factor to consider.
Telehealth services
Many policies include access to virtual medical consultations, providing peace of mind by allowing you to consult with healthcare providers from anywhere. This is particularly helpful for minor illnesses or if you’re located far from medical facilities.
Repatriation
This coverage is for the worst-case scenario. It ensures that in cases of severe injury, illness, or death, you (or your remains) can be transported back to your home country. It spares family members logistical challenges and considerable expense during difficult times.
Making a Claim with Nomad Travel Insurance
In the event that you need to make a claim through your insurance, it’s best to follow the process of your chosen insurance company. Generally, you can expect to adhere to the following steps.
A. Documenting and reporting the incident
To document and report an incident for travel insurance, follow these steps:
- Immediately notify your insurance provider about the incident via their specified contact method.
- Provide accurate details, including location, time, and description of the event.
B. Submitting required documentation and forms
Complete any required claim forms and submit necessary documents, such as receipts or reports. Ensure you do this within the time frame as stipulated by your insurer.
C. Following the claims process and timeline
Read your policy’s claim procedure. Gather essential documentation supporting your claim. Submit the claim form promptly, including all required materials. Stay informed about the claim’s progress and adhere to any additional requests from the insurer. Keep a copy of all documents for your records.
Exclusions and Limitations of Nomad Travel Insurance
Many nomad insurances are have detailed plans, but it’s important to check if certain things are not included in your standard travel insurance. If that’s the case, you’ll have to get additional insurance for certain activities and eventualities. Coverage limits may include a pre-existing health condition or taking part in high-risk sports.
The list below gives an overview of the kind of activities or incidents that may require additional cover:
- Extreme activities such as bungee jumping or paragliding
- Accidents due to alcohol or drugs
- Careless loss of possessions
- Recklessness (as per the provider’s definition)
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Cash theft or theft of possessions that were left unattended
Geographical coverage and limitations
Nomad insurance offers vital coverage for global travelers, yet there may be geographical limitations. It’s, therefore, important to familiarize yourself with policy terms to ensure the coverage extends across various destinations. Go for a plan aligning with your travel patterns to ensure full protection, particularly in regions of higher risk or remote places.
Seven Steps to Choose the Right Nomad Travel Insurance
Before you start your travels, finding an insurance company with well-rounded coverage is important. Many travel insurance companies offer insurance bundles, so you’re insured for every eventuality and can enjoy all the travel insurance benefits. Your travel insurance also needs to consider the countries you’re traveling to, as different countries have different risks. Americans moving to Europe will need different insurance than someone backpacking through Asia.
Finally, depending on the activities you plan to undertake, you must create trip protection to include additional coverage, such as medical assistance, emergency medical evacuation, adventure sports, or personal liability. Therefore, choosing the right digital nomad insurance requires a few key considerations to ensure it meets your specific needs.
Here are steps to guide your decision:
1. Evaluate coverage needs
Consider what’s most important for you, such as emergency medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip protection, or even dental coverage. Check the coverage limits of each travel insurance company, as some policies focus on medical coverage only, while others offer broader travel protections.
2. Check global reach and local access
Make sure your insurance is valid in the regions you plan to visit and offers access to a good network of healthcare providers, hospitals, and telemedicine services. GeoBlue, for instance, provides extensive global doctor networks, while other providers may be more limited.
3. Look for flexible coverage durations
Many nomads travel between locations often, so choose a policy with flexible coverage lengths and renewal options. World Nomads, for example, allows you to extend your policy while on the road.
4. Consider pre-existing condition policies
Some providers exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, so check if this is applicable and if there are waiting periods. If you have a pre-existing condition, policies like Aetna International may offer better support for chronic care needs.
5. Evaluate financial protections
Ensure the policy covers lost or stolen items if you travel with valuable tech like laptops or cameras. World Nomads, for example, provides coverage for theft of personal belongings, which can be essential for remote work equipment.
6. Compare costs and deductibles
Look for an affordable monthly premium that matches your budget. Check deductibles, co-pays, and reimbursement caps. Some plans offer lower premiums but higher deductibles, which could affect your expenses during an emergency.
7. Review claims process and customer service
Choose an insurer known for a straightforward claims process, including an online claim process and responsive customer service. Reading reviews can help see how easy it is to access support when needed. If you have any queries or doubts, contact insurance representatives before purchasing. A proactive pre-purchase experience indicates reliability during emergencies. After buying your travel insurance, keep your insurer’s contact info readily accessible.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Nomad Travel Insurance
Can I purchase travel insurance if I am already abroad or have started my trip?
Yes, you can buy travel insurance even if you’re already abroad or your trip has begun. Many insurance providers offer options for purchasing coverage after your journey has begun, providing you with the needed protection during your travels.
How long does travel insurance for nomads typically provide coverage for?
The coverage is usually for a specified duration, which can vary depending on the policy and provider. Coverage periods commonly range from a few days to one year, and some policies might be extendable for longer periods based on your needs.
Can I make changes or extend the duration of my travel insurance policy?
Yes, you often make changes or extend the duration of your insurance policy, depending on the provider. Many policies allow for adjustments before the policy expires, granting you flexibility to align coverage with your evolving travel plans.
Can I use nomadic travel insurance for multiple trips throughout the year?
Yes, some insurance policies offer the option of multi-trip coverage. This type of policy allows you to travel multiple times within a year under a single policy, offering convenience and potential cost savings for frequent travelers.
Are there age restrictions for purchasing travel insurance for nomads?
Age restrictions can apply to purchasing travel insurance. Different insurance providers may have varying age limits for their policies. It’s essential to review the policy details to ensure eligibility based on your age.
Are there any waiting periods before I can make a claim with my travel insurance?
Some world nomads’ travel insurance policies may impose waiting periods before certain benefits become claimable. Commonly, these waiting periods are applied to specific coverage elements, ensuring that the policyholder doesn’t immediately claim benefits upon purchasing the policy.
Can I cancel my nomadic travel insurance policy and receive a refund?
Yes, many travel insurance policies offer a refund for cancellations, typically within a specified period from the policy purchase date. Refund policies vary among providers, so carefully review terms to understand cancellation and refund options before making a decision.
How much does travel insurance typically cost?
The cost of travel insurance coverage for nomads varies widely based on factors like coverage extent, trip duration, age, and destination. On average, basic coverage might start around a few hundred dollars, while comprehensive policies could range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per year.
What is nomad insurance?
Nomad insurance is a specialized type of travel insurance created for digital nomads and long-term travelers. It covers essential needs like medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and trip interruptions and often includes options for lost luggage and adventure sports.
