Is World Nomads Travel Insurance Good? Finding reliable travel insurance is crucial, whether you’re planning a short vacation or a long-term adventure. TRAVELS.EDU.VN helps you navigate the complexities of travel insurance to ensure you’re protected on your journey. With the right coverage, you can explore the world with confidence, knowing you have support in case of unexpected events. Explore comprehensive trip protection, adventure activity coverage, and reliable claim processes.
1. Should You Buy World Nomads Travel Insurance in 2024?
When considering travel insurance, it’s essential to assess whether it’s a worthwhile investment for your specific needs. Travel insurance provides vital medical, gear, and trip protection for various travel scenarios, from short vacations to extended backpacking trips. However, the value of travel insurance depends on understanding what you’re insuring and selecting a company that best protects you.
Choosing the best travel insurance involves identifying the policy that suits your trip. Each policy varies, so reviewing them based on your planned trip can help you find the right one. Slick marketing doesn’t guarantee it’s the right fit. You want a company that successfully pays claims, has an easy online system, and fewer loopholes than its competitors.
Understanding the specific advice needed to make a travel insurance claim is crucial, as every insurance company has loopholes. Before buying any travel insurance, be aware of these loopholes.
1.1. Why I Switched From World Nomads
For eight years, I relied on World Nomads for my long-term world travels. Now, I prefer IMG Patriot Platinum or SafetyWing for my travels. This shift reflects my evolving needs and experiences with different insurance providers.
2. What is the Best Travel Insurance?
Let’s explore which types of world travels align best with various travel insurance companies. Here’s a basic breakdown of who should consider each insurance company:
2.1. Ideal Travelers for Each Insurance Company
| Traveler Type | World Nomads | SafetyWing | IMG Global |
|---|---|---|---|
| Long-term travelers | X | X | X |
| Backpackers | X | X | X |
| Digital nomads | X | X | |
| One-month vacations (or less) | X | ||
| Expats | X | X | |
| Senior travelers | X* | X | |
| World travels including the U.S. | X** | X** | X |
*Only IMG covers seniors over the age of 74. World Nomads’ “Silver Nomads” policies offer completely different coverage for seniors through different underwriters.
**World Nomads and SafetyWing offer limited U.S. coverage for those primarily traveling outside the U.S. and just doing short trips stateside. IMG sells medical travel insurance for non-residents visiting the U.S. for longer periods.
The best travel insurance depends on your circumstances. Review policies based on your specific needs.
2.2. World Nomads: A Once Dominant Option
World Nomads was once the go-to option for backpackers, dominating world travel insurance when there was little competition. It combines travel and travel medical insurance, covering common adventurous activities. The plans offer customizable add-ons, catering to a large average of travelers.
However, these policies are expensive, being the priciest among the reviewed options. The claims process has also received criticism. Recent traveler reviews reflect this, with a 3.3 rating on Trustpilot indicating dissatisfaction.
2.3. IMG Global: Customizable and Comprehensive
IMG Global offers a variety of customizable policies, ensuring you’re insured for what you need. The process filters travel insurance policies based on your qualifications, simplifying selection. While not as well-known among backpackers due to less marketing, its 4.6 rating on Trustpilot is well-deserved. It provides travel and travel medical insurance policies for long-term travelers, expats, seniors, and volunteers.
Everything I valued in World Nomads is available with IMG Global, with added flexibility. You can choose deductibles and coverage levels when selecting a policy. The Patriot Lite policy suits many travelers, while the iTraveledInsured policies offer excellent coverage for expensive trips like cruises and tours.
2.4. SafetyWing: A Newbie with Big Goals
SafetyWing entered the market in 2018, coinciding with the remote work movement. It caters to digital nomads and long-term travelers. Users praise it, with a 4.2 rating on TrustPilot. The company aims to simplify long-term travel insurance. Negative comments often stem from misunderstandings, such as policies with deductibles.
The company’s Nomad Insurance offers travel medical insurance, combining travel coverage with emergency medical benefits. Monthly payments benefit those with open-ended trips.
SafetyWing also provides a Nomad Health policy for expats, covering checkups, doctor visits, and optional dental and vision coverage. It’s ideal for digital nomads on tourist visas, especially with some coverage in their home country (excluding the U.S.).
2.5. Why Do Travel Insurance Prices Vary So Much?
Price differences stem from coverage and target demographics. SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance is inclusive, appealing to many older travelers, but its primary audience is 18-39 year olds, who get the cheapest policies. The insurance includes a $250 deductible and a lower policy maximum than World Nomads.
World Nomads offers a few policy options without much customization, profiting from over-insured customers.
One reason I favor IMG Global is the ability to choose the exact deductible and policy maximum, resulting in competitive prices. World Nomads lacks this option; policies are packaged as-is, including coverage limits, deductibles, and adventure sports.
Backpackers and long-term travelers need flexibility and security, which is why travel insurance is essential. I recommend IMG Global and SafetyWing as ideal choices.
Both companies allow online policy purchases and extensions, even while traveling, offering a user-friendly online interface. Good travel insurance lets you travel without worry.
3. What’s Covered by World Nomads (And What’s Not)?
Coverage is paramount. Understand what travel insurance can provide for your trip, including everyday protection and major issues.
3.1. Five Key Coverage Areas in a World Nomads Policy
- Overseas medical care
- Medical evacuation (Medevac)
- Baggage claims
- Theft of belongings and electronics (read policy details)
- Trip cancellation coverage
Beyond these essentials, additional coverage may include:
- Natural disasters
- Pregnancy complications (but not birth)
- Emergency dental
- Stolen passport
Coverage extent matters. Avoid policies that skimp on these areas. Some coverage depends on your trip and its limits.
IMG allows adjusting coverage limits, essential for expats traveling home. I prefer low deductibles in places with expensive healthcare and higher deductibles where medical visits are cheaper. This is my personal approach when buying travel insurance.
3.2. When to Buy Separate Gear Insurance
Insurance companies offer plans with limited gear coverage. For short trips with just a cell phone, mobile device coverage suffices. For laptops, phones, and other expensive gear, separate policies are necessary. I’ve used Clements for over 10 years, paying under $150 for coverage on my Macbook, iPhone, AirPods, and camera gear, with higher coverage limits.
4. Adventure Activity Coverage
Before traveling, list desired adventure activities and check if they’re covered by World Nomads’ A-Z List of Adventure Activities.
Ensure every activity is covered. In later years, I’ve done the same with IMG Global’s sports rider. Some activities not covered by IMG are covered by World Nomads, but they were very dangerous things like canyoning, which I wasn’t going to do anyway.
While not all activities may be covered, the list is comprehensive and online. It’s important to verify coverage. I wanted to ensure rock-climbing in Laos was covered as fully as scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef.
On my first backpacking trip, verifying coverage on World Nomads’ checklist was simple. World Nomads clearly outlines coverage online, making it easy to check before activities.
With other policies, like my IMG expat insurance, adding any adventure sports requires a rider, and the coverage is less robust.
World Nomads’ coverage was designed by a traveler, Simon Monk, to simplify travel insurance. Policies are tailored for long-term travelers and backpackers. Rather than selecting your own coverage limits, the policies offer maximum protection for common travel scenarios.
Only some policies offer adventure sports riders. Carefully review activities and ensure coverage for your plans.
The full list varies by country, but it provides a starting point to review World Nomads coverage.
5. Does Your Travel Insurance Cover COVID-19?
Since Covid lockdowns and restrictions are lifted in all of the world, you likely don’t need to concern yourself with this. That said, if you somehow escaped catching Covid-19 and get sick on your trip, most travel insurances, including IMG and World Nomads consider this illness endemic now, and include coverage if you fall sick.
There are caveats though, in case this situation were to spring out of control again. According to IMG: “Travelers who purchase coverage on or after August 6, 2020 may be eligible for benefits directly or indirectly related to COVID-19, as long as the DOS or CDC have not issued a Level 3 or higher Travel Warning for your destination country. In addition, if a government agency from your country of residence has not issued a similar travel warning, you may be eligible for coverage for COVID-19 coverage.”
6. Is World Nomads Travel Health Insurance?
Insurance companies don’t typically offer regular health insurance in their travel medical policies. Coverage is for emergency medical expenses, but it’s not the same as health coverage like regular doctor visits.
Travel medical insurance isn’t designed to mimic health insurance. Policies end upon returning home or within two weeks—check your policy.
World Nomads doesn’t cover regular checkups, only emergencies while traveling.
7. Buying Global Medical Insurance for Travelers
IMG Global and SafetyWing offer health insurance policies for expats or digital nomads. The IMG Global Medical Insurance plan covers many aspects of traditional health insurance, even with a $0 deductible.
7.1. IMG & SafetyWing Coverage for Global Healthcare Policies
| Covered Health Emergencies | Not Covered by Traditional Travel Insurance |
|---|---|
| Hospitalization | If you’ve taken drugs or alcohol |
| Day surgery and outpatient treatment | Minor rashes/non-emergencies |
| Visits to registered medical practitioners | Reckless behavior |
| Prescribed medicines | Non-emergency treatment that can wait until you return home |
| Ambulances | Certain pre-existing medical conditions |
| Extra expenses to get you home, if medically necessary | Ongoing treatment at home |
8. Making Travel Insurance Claims Online
Most insurance companies now allow online claims filing. A seamless system is essential for long-term travelers and backpackers, as you can’t wait until the trip’s end to sort it out.
For World Nomads, SafetyWing, and IMG Global, you can process claims online without time caps on insurance. This isn’t the case for all policies, as some max out at three months or lack a fully online process.
For most companies, contact them for medical emergencies and use their authorized providers for faster processing. The online claims process is easy, and the companies offer 24-hour helplines for assistance.
9. Travel Insurance Coverage When Riding a Motorbike
To pilot a motorbike, you need a motorcycle license and an international driver’s license with motorcycle certification. Without these, travel insurance may not cover you in case of accidents.
10. TL;DR: World Nomads Coverage Review Recap
- World Nomads and IMG Global made my life easier as a digital nomad for 15+ years with their online processes.
- Adventure sports coverage is included in World Nomads policies. With IMG, add this rider if you’re doing more than sunbathing.
- IMG Global and SafetyWing are my preferred travel insurances for long-term travelers.
- You’re only covered for legal activities—no drugs or drunk driving, and no driving without a proper license.
- For non-residents visiting the U.S., I recommend IMG Global, as World Nomads and SafetyWing have coverage gaps.
11. How to Help Your Claims Get Approved
Travel insurance protects against the unknown. I’ve experienced dysentery, Giardia, scabies, strep throat, and other health issues during my travels.
Although I’ve never had major health problems or been robbed, I wouldn’t risk backpacking without emergency help. Travel insurance companies have provider networks and negotiate on your behalf.
Terrible reviews exist for all travel insurance companies. Some travelers don’t fit within the policy wording and aren’t covered. It’s imperative to read the requirements for making a claim.
When reviewing policies, even the best travel insurance has loopholes. Key cautions and warnings include:
- Document your valuables: Prove you bought it (receipts), it was with you (photos), and it was stolen (police report).
- Document your illness: Call your insurance company immediately and keep paperwork.
- Follow the law: Ensure you have the required licenses to drive vehicles.
- Read your policy: Understand what it covers and highlight anything unclear.
- Understand what’s not covered: From pre-existing conditions to extreme sports, coverage varies.
- Understand the target market: Ensure the insurance company provides coverage needed for your age, health, and travel style.
12. Cheatsheet of Coverage Comparison
| What’s Covered? | World Nomads | SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | SafetyWing Nomad Health | IMG Patriot Plus | IMG iTravelInsured | IMG Global Medical |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency medical | X | X | X | X* | X | |
| Routine healthcare | X | X | ||||
| Lost luggage, trip delay | X | X | X | |||
| Trip expense reimbursement | X | X | ||||
| Gear theft | X | X | X | |||
| Adventure sports | X* | X | ||||
| Adjustable maximums and deductibles | X |
Note that you will have to choose add-ons / riders for some of these policies to receive the above coverage, such as a sports rider, device protection plan, or the XE vs SE version of a policy. Always read your policy to ensure it covers what you expect, and reach out to the company to review any specifics that are unclear. It’s your responsibility to know what’s in your policy.
13. FAQ About World Nomads & Travel Insurance
13.1. What is Primary or Secondary Insurance?
For Americans, ask if the travel insurance is primary or secondary. Verify if the insurance requires primary coverage. Primary refers to medical and homeowners insurance. Some policies allow you to purchase secondary insurance if you have a primary policy. If you don’t have health insurance, this can be a problem. Secondary means you must file a claim with your primary policy first. Some policies allow purchase without a primary policy.
World Nomads covers you without filing with your health insurance company. If you need U.S. coverage, maintain your policy or find plans that offer primary care in the U.S. I bought an expat plan with IMG Platinum International for a European residency visa but needed to secure a short-term plan when returning to the U.S.
13.2. Do I Need Adventure Sports Coverage?
Unless you plan nothing more than sunbathing, you need adventure sports coverage. This covers small hikes, day trips by bicycle, and other innocuous activities. It also covers scuba, trekking, and kayaking. If you’re backpacking long-term, adding adventure sports coverage is a good option. To be covered, the sport must be done for leisure, and verify your specific activity is covered.
13.3. Which Policy Should I Buy for My Volunteer Trip?
An IMG policy designed for travelers or missionaries is better for a volunteer trip, depending on the length. I have volunteered a lot and some longer placements might need something closer to an expat policy.
13.4. What’s the Difference Between “Travel Protection” and “Travel Insurance?”
Don’t buy “travel protection;” this term is used by unlicensed companies to offer travel insurance—it’s likely not valid.
13.5. Does Travel Insurance Cover Theft of My Belongings?
Yes, even the standard policy covers theft, but coverage is limited. If you’re traveling with a laptop, camera, and smartphone, you’re likely over your limits. I carry separate gear insurance to protect my laptop, smartphone, and gear. I have used Clements for nearly a decade. IMG also allows adding a Mobile Device Protection rider.
13.6. Does World Nomads Have Coverage for Seniors?
World Nomads offers coverage up to 70 years of age, suitable for adventurous senior travelers. Silver Nomads plans are available for over 70, but coverage is limited.
The Globe Hopper plan from IMG is likely a good fit. It’s designed for seniors with Medicare and offers coverage in the right areas.
13.7. What Happens If There’s No Local Doctor?
Things like high-altitude hiking may not be covered after a certain altitude. Even if your trek is covered, verify what the policy means when it says “cover for emergency medical evacuation as long as it is ordered by the attending physician.”
You are covered for medically necessary evacuations. Make every attempt to have World Nomads arrange transport.
If you are undertaking a risky hike, go with a separate insurance policy for remote hiking.
13.8. Can I Buy Insurance While Already Traveling?
Yes, you can buy insurance on the road. World Nomads, IMG, and SafetyWing offer this to travelers. You’re not covered for anything that happens before you buy the policy.
13.9. Why are Travel Insurance Policies Priced So Differently?
Some policies offer “trip protection,” not “travel insurance.” Trip protection recoups prepaid costs like flights and hotels. Travel insurance covers your health, person, and gear at your destination.
Cost variations come down to deductibles and limits. Some policies have you paying the first $250 for a hospital bill or cover only up to $25,000 for a major visit. Gear coverage may be limited to $500. Also, the nature of your trip should determine coverage—the best policies outline specific activities or allow riders for certain activities. World Nomads does not have a deductible for Americans.
Consider the activities, gear, and potential healthcare costs when comparing policies. Ensure higher coverage limits in Europe than Southeast Asia. If you’re going remote, look closely at Medevac coverage.
Once you’ve considered those things, it should be easier to narrow down which policies best fit your trip. World Nomads has decent coverage limits and automatically covers a range of activities. Policies from IMG Global allow you to build a policy, choosing your own deductibles and coverage limits, and also choosing if you need adventure activities covered. It also offers plans that are already tailored to international exchange students, seniors, families, boat crews, and more.
13.10. How Secure is the Claims Portal?
You must use a secure portal that requires you to log in and upload documents for both IMG and World Nomads. Then, emails only notify you of a message, and you have to log in to see it.
13.11. How Does the Standard Plan Compare to the Explorer Plan?
The Explorer plans are an upgrade in every way to the Standard plan—it ups your coverages limits, often lowers your out-of-pockets, and covers more adventure activities than the Standard plan
The best way to decide if you need the World Nomads Standard vs Explorer plan is to closely examine the activities and crosscheck that against your travel plans (and even your stretch travel plans as it’s better to buy coverage now if you’re floating the idea of bungee jumping in New Zealand, for example). Then look at the coverage limits—can you afford the deductibles? If not, then you might invest now so you know that you can swing any medical costs or theft deductibles if something happens.
The Standard plan is generous. For U.S. residents, it includes $100,000 in medical coverage and $300,000 for emergency evacuation, $1,000 for luggage (with a per-item limit of $500), and $2,500 for trip interruption or cancellation.
If you’re doing some crazy or remote activities, or if you have expensive gear, you may feel better with the Explorer plan, which for U.S. residents includes $100,000 in medical coverage and $500,000 for emergency evacuation, $3,000 for luggage (with a per-item limit of $1,500), and $10,000 for trip interruption or cancelation. (*This specific coverage data was last updated in 2022.)
14. Contact TRAVELS.EDU.VN for Napa Valley Travel Insurance
Are you planning a trip to the beautiful Napa Valley? At TRAVELS.EDU.VN, we understand that peace of mind is essential when exploring new destinations. That’s why we partner with leading travel insurance providers to offer comprehensive coverage tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re indulging in wine tastings, exploring scenic vineyards, or enjoying the vibrant local culture, we ensure you’re protected against unforeseen events.
Don’t leave your Napa Valley adventure to chance. Contact TRAVELS.EDU.VN today for personalized travel insurance advice and secure your trip with confidence.
Contact us:
- Address: 123 Main St, Napa, CA 94559, United States
- WhatsApp: +1 (707) 257-5400
- Website: travels.edu.vn
15. My Personal Travel Insurance Choice
After more than ten years on the road, I moved to Europe in early 2018, now I have local Spanish health insurance and I use IMG Patriot Platinum when I travel back to the U.S., or to cover me and my son when we travel Europe and the world.
Generate an IMG quote to see if it’s a good fit for your travel situation, and look at SafetyWing if you’re heading out on a long-term trip.
15.1. A Bit About This World Nomads Review
I am travel writer and online marketer—I am not an expert and you should always conduct your own research. I write from my lived experience, as well as 18+ years of feedback from friends and readers. The fact is, I’ve used both World Nomads and IMG Global for well over a decade, so this is a first-hand, honest travel insurance review and no one paid me to use them—my hard-earned money bought a policy on every trip.
Disclosure: I am not a licensed insurance agent, nor a medical professional. While all of the information in this post is accurate to my knowledge, you must do your own research and verify all aspects of your travel insurance before securing a policy. I cannot be held responsible for your use of any of the information provided.
Please note that I make a small commission—at no additional cost to you—on purchases you make through a select few product links. This never affects my recommendations.
