Protect the freedom of carrying everything on your back.
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For information relating to policies purchased prior to 27 June 2024, please check the Policy Wording provided with your purchase. You can contact us if you need this sent to you again. For policies purchased from 27 June 2024 please see below.
For British backpackers, exploring the world’s hidden gems - from Southeast Asia’s temples to the Andes’ peaks - offers unmatched freedom at a fraction of the cost. But with adventure comes uncertainty, and not all surprises are fun. That’s why investing time in researching travel insurance for backpackers is a worthwhile endeavour, ensuring you're covered for whatever comes your way.
World Nomads travel insurance plans offer cover for sudden and unforeseen costs, such as if you’re injured in a traffic accident and need urgent medical treatment, or if your transport carrier damages or loses your much-needed backpack with everything in it, or a crafty pickpocket swipes your phone from under your nose.
Our plans offer cover (up to the benefit limits) for scenarios such as (to name just a few):
Some things we do not cover include:
Both our Standard and Explorer Plans have many of the same benefits, while the Explorer Plan offers travellers further covered events and higher benefit limits and/or sub limits.
If you’re planning on doing extra activities such as surfing, rock climbing (outdoor) or manual work, for example, our article on covered sports and activities can help you select the optional upgrades you’ll need to add to your plan when you buy your policy. Keep in mind some types of work and high-risk activities may not be covered at all.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning a one-off adventure, your travel insurance needs differ. For the serial backpacker, an Annual Multi-Trip policy provides year-round coverage, making it easy to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of having to buy a new policy each time.
If this is your big once-in-a-lifetime trip, a Single Trip policy offers all the protection you need, tailored specifically to your journey.
Looking for some more backpacking inspo? Check out our article, Backpacking Checklist: Dos and Don'ts When on the Road
Protect your trip from unexpected cancellation.
We’ve got your back.
Take the pain out of medical costs while traveling abroad.
We’ve got your back.
Expenses included in Emergency Medical limits.
Help starts here.
Cover your lost, stolen or damaged gear and tech.
Help starts here.
You are not eligible to buy a policy if you travel against medical advice, travel with the intention of receiving medical treatment, or have a terminal illness. World Nomads policies cannot cover claims due to Pre-Existing Medical Conditions (PEMC), regardless of whether the condition is serious or not. You can still purchase a World Nomads policy, but the PEMC exclusion cannot be removed, and you will be responsible for any related costs.
For information on travel insurance providers that offer cover on PEMC, visit Money Helper or call 0800 138 7777.
If you need medical assistance or emergency medical evacuation our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year before and during your trip.
Wherever you are, we’re here 24/7 to help you in any emergency.
Are you in need of Emergency Medical Assistance right now?
For policies purchased on or after 27 June 2024
+44 (0) 144 444 2021 (Call via an operator reverse charges. Not toll free.)
For policies purchased before 27 June 2024:
Phone: +44 (0) 203 093 1750 (Call via an operator reverse charges. Not toll free.)
Here are our most frequently asked questions about buying travel insurance for backpacking. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
Yes, it’s possible to extend your existing Single Trip policy while still travelling and before its expiry date, for up to 12 months from the start date.
This is only a summary of coverage and does not include the full terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the policy. You should read your policy wording in full so you understand what is and isn’t covered. That way there won’t be any surprises if you need to use it. If you have any questions, get in touch.
Before your trip, check the latest government advice for any travel alerts for your destination.