Coverage amounts may vary by country of residence and destination.
World Nomads Travel Insurance Review
World Nomads leads our travel insurance analysis with the highest overall score of 93 out of 100, ranking first among 13 companies. The company has industry leading adventure travel coverage and offers competitive travel insurance rates for international travelers.
Should you buy travel insurance from World Nomads? Â Learn more below.
Updated: September 23, 2025
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World Nomads Review: Key Takeaways
World Nomads earned the highest ranking in MoneyGeek's analysis with the best affordability score (98) and strong coverage ratings across all plan tiers.
World Nomads includes coverage for over 250 adventure activities in all plans, from skiing to white water rafting, without expensive add-ons like most competitors.
Plans start at $81 for basic coverage on a $2,500 trip, with identical pricing across age groups and the ability to purchase coverage after departure.
World Nomads Travel Insurance Pros and Cons
Where World Nomads Excels
- Adventure Coverage Included: World Nomads includes coverage for extreme activities like bungee jumping, rock climbing, and motorsports across all plan levels, unlike competitors who charge extra for adventure sports. See below for details on which activities are covered.
- Age-Neutral Pricing: World Nomads doesn’t increase fees dramatically for older travelers.  Most companies charge more for travel insurance as they age above 40 to 50-years old.  They don’t offer travel insurance directly for travelers over 70.
- Post-Departure Coverage Purchase: World Nomads allows you to buy or extend coverage while already traveling, providing flexibility for spontaneous trip extensions or last-minute coverage needs.
Areas for Improvement
- Coverage Gaps in Basic Plans: Standard plans lack features found in competitor offerings, requiring upgrades to Explorer or Epic plans for complete protection.
- Claims Processing Delays: Customer reviews indicate longer claim resolution times compared to competitors, with mixed experiences in complex claim situations.
- Secondary Medical Coverage: World Nomads provides secondary medical coverage, meaning your primary health insurance pays first, which can complicate claim processes compared to primary coverage providers.
World Nomads Travel Insurance Plans and Features
Emergency Medical | $100,000 | $150,000 | $250,000 |
Emergency Evacuation | $500,000 | $500,000 | $1,000,000 |
Trip Cancellation | 100% trip cost | 150% trip cost | 175% trip cost |
Baggage & Personal Effects | $1,000 | $2,000 | $3,000 |
Business Equipment | $500 | $1,000 | $2,500 |
Adventure Sports Coverage | 250+ activities | 250+ activities | 250+ activities |
COVID-19 Coverage | Basic medical | Enhanced coverage | Comprehensive |
CFAR Coverage | Not available | Optional add-on | Optional add-on |
24/7 Emergency Assistance | Included | Included | Included |
World Nomads Travel Insurance Rates
Based on MoneyGeek's analysis of World Nomads pricing for single-trip coverage:
World Nomad Quotes for $2,500 Trip Coverage (Ages 20-50)
Standard | $81 | $162 | $324 |
Explorer | $135 | $269 | $538 |
Epic | $248 | $496 | $992 |
World Nomad Quotes for $10,000 Trip Coverage (Ages 20-50)
Standard | $323 | $646 | $1,292 |
Explorer | $539 | $1,078 | $2,156 |
Epic | $992 | $1,984 | $3,968 |
World Nomads Senior Travelers Pricing (Age 65)
World Nomads uses age-neutral pricing, meaning senior travelers pay the same rates as younger travelers for identical coverage. This represents significant savings compared to competitors who typically charge 50-100% more for travelers over 65.
$2,500 trip | $81 | $135 | $248 |
$5,000 trip | $161 | $269 | $496 |
$10,000 trip | $323 | $539 | $992 |
All rates shown are for single travelers. Pricing based on international travel, rates may vary by destination and coverage period. World Nomads achieved a 98 affordability score, the top rating among all providers analyzed.
Comparing World Nomads vs Other Companies
World Nomads ranks #1 in MoneyGeek's overall analysis, outperforming major competitors:
World Nomads | 93 | 98 | 86 | 89 |
Generali | 92 | 94 | 88 | 89 |
Allianz | 91 | 86 | 89 | 100 |
IMG | 91 | 83 | 95 | 95 |
Travel Guard | 91 | 88 | 86 | 98 |
vs. Allianz: World Nomads offers better value pricing and superior adventure coverage. Allianz excels in claims service with a perfect 100 rating.
vs. IMG: World Nomads provides more affordable options. IMG offers the highest coverage scores (95) with more customizable policy options.
vs. Generali: World Nomads leads in affordability by nearly 5 points, though Generali edges ahead slightly in coverage quality and has a high claims and service score.
Summary of World Nomad's User Reviews
Based on analysis of 4,932 customer reviews.
What Customers Love About World Nomads
Easy Purchase Process: Reviewers consistently praise World Nomads' straightforward online booking system, with many noting the ability to compare plans and purchase coverage quickly without lengthy phone calls.
Adventure Activity Coverage: Digital nomads and backpackers appreciate the automatic inclusion of extreme sports coverage, with several customers noting successful claims for skiing accidents and adventure activity injuries.
Responsive Emergency Assistance: Multiple reviews highlight effective 24/7 emergency support, with customers praising the helpfulness of assistance coordinators during medical emergencies abroad.
Transparent Policy Terms: Customers frequently mention that policy terms are easy to understand compared to other insurers, with clear explanations of what's covered and excluded.
Common Complaints About World Nomads
Claim Processing Delays
Several reviewers report extended wait times for claim resolution, with some cases taking months for final settlement, particularly for complex medical claims.
Coverage Disputes
Some customers experienced claim denials for situations they believed should be covered, leading to frustration with policy interpretation and appeals processes.
Premium Costs for Comprehensive Coverage
While World Nomads offers competitive basic rates, some travelers find Epic plan pricing expensive compared to mid-tier options from other providers.
Limited U.S. Customer Support Hours
American customers occasionally report difficulties reaching customer service during U.S. business hours, as support is primarily based in Australia.
World Nomads Adventure Coverage: What's Actually Covered
World Nomads covers over 250 adventure activities across all plans, organized by activity type and plan level. While most insurers charge hefty add-on fees for adventure sports or exclude them entirely, World Nomads includes adventure coverage at no extra cost.
Activities Covered on ALL Plans (Standard, Explorer, Epic)
Snow Sports
Cross-country skiing, downhill skiing (on and off-piste within resort boundaries), heli-skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, glacier walking up to 19,685 feet, ice climbing up to 9,842 feet, dog sledding, and ice hockey.
Water Activities
Scuba diving to 165 feet, white water rafting (grades 1-5), surfing, kayaking, jet skiing, kite boarding, snorkeling, sailing, and swimming with whale sharks. Black water rafting and cave tubing are also included.
Air Sports
Bungee jumping, zip lining, parasailing, gliding, indoor skydiving, and flying as a passenger in private aircraft or helicopters.
Land Adventures
Rock climbing up to 9,842 feet (indoor and outdoor), hiking up to 19,685 feet, mountain biking, ATV riding, horseback riding, camping, abseiling, canyoning, and paintball.
Traditional Sports
American football, boxing training, martial arts (judo, karate), rugby, soccer, tennis, golf, gymnastics, and skateboarding.
Explorer Plan Additional Coverage (250+ more activities)
Advanced Snow Sports
Backcountry skiing outside resort boundaries, freestyle skiing with acrobatics, ski racing, terrain park activities, and glacier walking up to 21,325 feet.
Enhanced Water Sports
Shark cage diving, cave diving to 165 feet, lifeguarding, and working as a paid diving instructor.
Air Adventures
Skydiving, paragliding, hang gliding, hot air ballooning, stunt flying as a passenger, and parachuting.
Extreme Land Activities
Bull riding, cliff jumping, outdoor ultra-marathons, rock climbing up to 21,325 feet, spelunking, Tough Mudder events, and "Running with the Bulls" participation.
Professional Activities
Construction work, paid outdoor instruction, high-risk volunteer work including disaster relief, and medical volunteer work.
Epic Plan Ultimate Coverage (340+ activities)
High-Altitude Adventures
Mountaineering and glacier walking up to 26,247 feet, extreme altitude hiking, and camping at elevations exceeding 21,325 feet.
Professional Air Sports
Flying as pilot or crew member, aviation activities, and jet pack operation.
Extreme Water Sports
Cliff diving, commercial scuba diving, and cave diving to 196 feet.
Motor Sports
Motocross riding, motor racing as driver or passenger in competitions, and professional motorsport participation.
Free Solo Activities
Free climbing without ropes and solo mountaineering expeditions.
Add-on Coverage Available
Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR)
Available on Explorer and Epic plans, reimburses 75% of non-refundable trip costs when you cancel for reasons not covered in the standard policy.
Sports Equipment Coverage
Enhanced protection for specialized gear like ski equipment, diving gear, and photography equipment with higher limits than standard baggage coverage.
Rental Car Excess Coverage
Reduces deductibles on rental car damage claims in international destinations.
Natural Disaster Coverage
Extended coverage for trip disruptions caused by hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters.
Political Evacuation
Coverage for emergency evacuation due to political unrest or security concerns in your destination.
What's NOT Covered by World Nomads Travel Insurance
World Nomads excludes several types of incidents and situations from coverage. Understanding these exclusions helps avoid claim denials:
Very High-Risk Activities
Professional sports, racing (motor vehicles, motorcycles, or watercraft), extreme altitude activities above certain elevations, and activities requiring specialized licenses not held by the traveler.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
Unless specifically covered through the pre-existing condition waiver (available only when purchased within 21 days of initial trip deposit), any medical issues that existed before policy purchase are excluded.
Unattended Personal Property
Items left unguarded in public spaces, vehicles, or hotel rooms won't be covered for theft. This includes laptops, cameras, and other valuables left visible in rental cars.
Pregnancy-Related Claims
Routine pregnancy care, childbirth, and pregnancy complications are generally excluded unless they represent an unexpected medical emergency.
Mental Health and Substance Abuse
Treatment for mental health conditions, alcohol, or drug-related incidents typically aren't covered unless specifically included in certain plan levels.
Government Actions
Trip cancellations due to government travel advisories, border closures, or travel restrictions (including those related to pandemics) may not be covered unless you have CFAR coverage.
Business Travel Exclusions
Work-related travel may have limited coverage, and business equipment coverage is capped at low amounts even on higher-tier plans.
Rental Car Coverage Limitations
Standard plans don't include rental car coverage, and even Explorer/Epic plans may have restrictions based on your state of residence.
World Nomads Claims Documentation Requirements
Based on World Nomads' official claims requirements, travelers must provide specific documentation depending on claim type:
Medical Emergency Claims | Required Documents: Medical records and treatment receipts from healthcare providers, hospital discharge summaries, prescription receipts, proof of payment for medical expenses. For Emergency Evacuation: Medical certificate from attending physician stating medical necessity for evacuation, evacuation company receipts, transportation records. |
Trip Cancellation and Interruption Claims | Required Documents: Documentation supporting cancellation reason (medical certificates, death certificates, employment letters), original booking confirmations, proof of payments made, evidence of non-refundable costs, supplier refund statements. Medical-Related Claims: Completed medical certificate form, doctor's statement confirming inability to travel, medical records supporting the condition. |
Adventure Activity Claims | Required Documents: Incident reports from activity operators or local authorities, medical reports detailing injuries, proof of proper licensing or guide supervision when required, equipment damage assessments. |
Baggage and Personal Effects Claims | Required Documents: Police reports for theft or loss, proof of ownership (receipts, photos), repair estimates for damaged items, airline baggage reports for delayed or lost luggage. |
Submission Process
Claims can be filed online through World Nomads' claims portal or by contacting their 24/7 claims hotline. Documentation can be uploaded electronically or mailed to their claims processing center. Claims should be reported as soon as possible, with full documentation required within 30 days of the incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
We respond to common questions about World Nomads travel insurance to help you make an informed decision.
Does World Nomads cover pre-existing medical conditions?
World Nomads covers pre-existing conditions only if you purchase coverage within 21 days of your initial trip deposit and meet specific stability requirements. The Explorer and Epic plans offer more comprehensive pre-existing condition coverage than the Standard plan.
Can I extend my World Nomads policy while traveling?
Yes, World Nomads allows policy extensions while you're already traveling, provided you extend before your current policy expires and you haven't filed any claims. You can extend coverage online through their website.
What adventure activities does World Nomads actually cover?
World Nomads automatically covers over 250 adventure activities including skiing, snowboarding, scuba diving (to 30 meters), white water rafting, bungee jumping, and rock climbing. Activities like professional sports, racing, and extreme altitude climbing may require additional coverage.
How does World Nomads' CFAR coverage work?
Cancel for Any Reason coverage is available on Explorer and Epic plans for U.S. residents only. It reimburses 75% of non-refundable trip costs when you cancel for reasons not covered in your standard policy. You must cancel at least 48 hours before departure.
Is World Nomads coverage primary or secondary for medical expenses?
World Nomads provides secondary medical coverage, meaning they pay after your primary health insurance. Their emergency evacuation coverage is primary, providing immediate assistance for medical emergencies requiring evacuation.
How does World Nomads compare for family coverage?
World Nomads' pricing structure makes it cost-effective for families, as each additional traveler roughly doubles the premium without age-based increases. Their plans cover children at the same rate as adults, which can be advantageous compared to age-tiered pricing from other insurers.
What's World Nomads' coverage like for cruise travel?
World Nomads covers cruise travel under their standard policies, including missed cruise connections, cruise interruption, and medical coverage while aboard. Specialized cruise coverage from dedicated cruise insurers may offer more comprehensive port-specific benefits.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.