Last updated on January 4, 2024
When it comes to choosing the best travel insurance for your world travels, the options can be overwhelming. In this article, we will explore the popular travel insurance provider World Nomads and discuss who it is still suitable for. We will also introduce two alternative travel insurance companies that offer excellent coverage - IMG Travel Insurance and SafetyWing.
Should You Buy World Nomads Travel Insurance in 2024?
Before we dive into the details, it's important to understand that the decision of whether to purchase travel insurance is ultimately up to you. However, travel insurance provides essential medical, gear, and trip protection for a range of travel experiences, from short vacations to long-term backpacking trips. The key is to find the best travel insurance for your specific needs and trip.
World Nomads was once the go-to option for backpackers, but over the past decade, it has faced some challenges. While it still offers coverage for adventurous activities and customizable add-ons, its claims process and customer satisfaction ratings have left travelers less than thrilled. For a more seamless experience and better coverage, many travelers have turned to alternative options such as IMG Travel Insurance and SafetyWing.
What is the Best Travel Insurance?
Let's take a closer look at the three travel insurance providers and who they are best suited for:
World Nomads
World Nomads was the top name in insuring world travel when there was no real competition. It offers both travel insurance and travel medical insurance, covering a range of adventurous activities common on long-term trips and backpacking journeys. However, its policies are relatively expensive compared to its alternatives, and its claims process has received mixed reviews.
IMG Global
IMG Global may not be as well-known as World Nomads, but it has earned a solid reputation among long-term travelers, expats, and seniors. It provides both travel insurance and travel medical insurance, with a wide variety of policies and customizable options. One standout feature of IMG Global is its flexibility in allowing travelers to choose deductibles and coverage levels, ensuring that you only pay for what you need.
SafetyWing
SafetyWing is a newcomer to the market, catering to digital nomads and long-term travelers. It offers travel medical insurance specifically, which includes coverage for some travel delays, lost luggage, and emergency medical expenses. SafetyWing's monthly payment option makes it convenient for those on extended trips, and it also offers a comprehensive global health insurance policy for those living and traveling outside their home country.
Each of these travel insurance providers has its strengths and target audience. It's crucial to carefully review their offerings and compare them based on your specific circumstances and needs.
What’s Covered by World Nomads (And What’s Not)?
Understanding the coverage provided by travel insurance policies is essential to making an informed decision. World Nomads covers five key areas: overseas medical care, medical evacuation, baggage claims, theft of belongings and electronics (subject to policy details), and trip cancellation. Additional coverage for natural disasters, pregnancy complications (excluding birth), emergency dental, and stolen passports varies depending on your country of residence.
It's worth noting that World Nomads' coverage is designed for long-term travelers and backpackers, with a focus on adventurous activities. Before engaging in any activity, it is crucial to consult the policy details to ensure coverage. While World Nomads offers comprehensive coverage, it lacks the customization options available with IMG Global, which allows travelers to tailor their coverage to their specific needs.
Adventure Activity Coverage
Travelers seeking adventure activities coverage should carefully review the offerings of each insurance provider. World Nomads' policies cover a wide range of adventure sports by default, providing peace of mind to travelers. On the other hand, IMG Global requires the addition of an adventure sports rider for coverage beyond basic outdoor activities. It's essential to check the policy details and ensure that your desired activities are covered before participating.
Is World Nomads Travel Health Insurance?
Travel medical insurance differs from regular health insurance. While travel medical insurance provides coverage for emergency medical expenses while traveling, it does not replace comprehensive health coverage. World Nomads' policies offer protection for emergency medical situations, but regular check-ups and non-emergency medical care are not included. It's important to understand the limitations of travel medical insurance and consider additional coverage if needed.
Buying Global Medical Insurance for Travelers
For travelers seeking comprehensive health coverage while living overseas or as digital nomads, IMG Global and SafetyWing offer suitable options. IMG Global offers medical insurance plans designed for expats with residences abroad, allowing for coverage similar to traditional health insurance. SafetyWing provides travel medical insurance specifically, with coverage for some travel delays, lost luggage, and emergency medical expenses.
Both IMG Global and SafetyWing offer convenient online claims processing and have no limitations on the length of coverage. These features make them ideal choices for long-term travelers and backpackers who value flexibility and security.
How to Help Your Claims Get Approved
Making a successful travel insurance claim requires careful documentation and adherence to the policy guidelines. To ensure a smooth claims process, it is crucial to:
- Document your valuables by keeping receipts and taking photos before your trip.
- Document any illnesses by contacting your insurance provider as soon as possible.
- Follow local laws and regulations, especially when it comes to activities such as driving.
- Read your policy thoroughly and understand all its requirements and limitations.
- Familiarize yourself with what is not covered by your policy.
While negative reviews can be found for any travel insurance company, understanding the claims process and adhering to the policy guidelines can significantly increase your chances of a successful claim.
TL;DR: World Nomads Coverage Review Recap
Having travel insurance is essential for protecting yourself during your travels. World Nomads, IMG Global, and SafetyWing each offer unique features and benefits. While World Nomads was once the go-to option for backpackers, travelers now have more alternatives to choose from.
As a digital nomad with over 15 years of travel experience, I have personally used both World Nomads and IMG Global. While World Nomads served me well during my solo backpacking trips, I eventually switched to IMG Global for its flexibility and comprehensive coverage. SafetyWing also offers appealing options for those embarking on long-term trips.
Before deciding on a travel insurance provider, it's vital to conduct your own research and consider your specific travel needs and circumstances.
*A Note from the Author: This article reflects my personal experience and 15+ years of feedback from friends and readers. While the information provided is correct to the best of my knowledge, it is essential to conduct your own research and verify all aspects of your travel insurance before making a decision.
