Stay protected with emergency medical and evacuation coverage in case of an accident during your travels
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Adventure’s calling…what’s it gonna be? Snowboarding in the Swiss Alps or scuba diving off the Canary Islands? Remember, with adventure comes the possibility of misadventure, and even the best planned trips can hit a snag when accidents occur. World Nomads offers UK travellers insurance options for those ‘just in case’ moments.
World Nomads offers two insurance plans: Standard and Explorer. Both plans cover medical expenses for accidents overseas, but the Explorer Plan has higher limits.
Here are some of the ways we could help UK policyholders if they have an accident while travelling:
Hospital stays: whether it’s a sprained ankle from a trek in Peru, or a case of Bali Belly, World Nomads can cover inpatient care, including emergency treatment, surgeries, and necessary overnight stays.
Out-patient surgeries: if an accident leaves you needing a quick procedure, you could be covered—minus the lengthy hospital stay.
Prescribed medications: need antibiotics after a run-in with an overzealous jellyfish while scuba diving in The Maldives? We may be able to cover the bill for that.
Medical evacuation and repatriation: sometimes, the thrill of exploring new places comes with unexpected risks. If a severe medical emergency happens while you’re overseas, we’ll help you get the care you need—no matter where that may be. World Nomads covers medical evacuations, including air ambulance transport if required, so you can get to the nearest suitable medical facility or back home with the support you need.
And while we hope you never need it, we also cover the repatriation of remains in the event of the unthinkable, easing the burden on your loved ones during difficult times.
Accidental death and dismemberment: if you get seriously hurt during your trip– and lose your sight, a limb, or even your life – you (or a designated beneficiary) can get compensated for the loss, up to the maximum benefit amount specified in your plan.
Note: the loss must have occurred within 365 days of the accident to receive benefits.
Our UK policyholders love a good thrill, and we’re all for it—that’s why we offer cover for over 150 activities and sports. Got a hankering for barefoot waterskiing? Lake Como’s glassy waters in Italy are perfect for it—and yes, if you get a little wobbly and twist an ankle, we’ve got you covered (not that we wish that on anyone!).
For non-urgent issues, World Nomads also offers access to Air Doctor. So, if you’re exploring the Australian Outback or visiting remote villages in South America, you can connect with a doctor virtually or find one nearby. Air Doctor makes it easy to get advice, prescription refills, or minor treatments without navigating an unfamiliar healthcare system—perfect for handling those minor bumps in the road so you can get back to the adventure.
When exploring the world, the last thing you want to worry about is what to do in a medical emergency. That’s where our 24-hour Emergency Medical Assistance team steps in. Available around the clock, our team is here to help connect you to local medical providers, coordinate your care, and ensure you’re supported at every step.
- Your location: give as much information as possible about where you are, including any landmarks if you’re in a remote area.
- Nature of the emergency: describe what happened and the extent of your injuries or illness.
- Your policy number: have your World Nomads policy number handy to speed up assistance.
Heads-up: this travel insurance covers you over and above any state health insurance or reciprocal health agreements, like your GHIC or EHIC. If you're heading to the EEA or Switzerland, remember to bring a valid GHIC (or EHIC if you still have one) for access to state healthcare at reduced or no cost. And when your EHIC expires, just switch over to a GHIC to keep those benefits rolling.
This is not a complete list of what's covered and not covered. Some limits and conditions apply, so for more information, check out our articles on overseas medical coverage and adventure sports coverage, and read your policy carefully before you buy. Contact us if you’re still not sure.
I was riding my mountain bike when I hit something and went over my handle bars. I put both hands out and broke my wrists and knocked myself out. I woke up in an ambulance and then went to Whistler Health Care Centre where I had x rays and further treatment.
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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 overseas medical insurance. You can also find the answers to other questions in our Helpdesk or you can ask our customer service team.
Before your trip, check the latest government advice for any travel alerts for your destination.