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The Best Travel Insurance for Backpackers

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Table of Contents

What to consider when buying backpacker insurance

The best travel insurance providers for backpackers, finding the right plan for you, backpacker travel insurance recapped.

Are you currently backpacking or planning an epic around-the-world trip? Perhaps you're taking some time off from school, want a break from your job or you're a digital nomad. Whatever your situation, you may have realized that your current medical insurance may not be enough to protect you against everything you might encounter while backpacking — especially if you're abroad.

So, what is the best travel insurance for backpackers? Here's our guide to help you find the right policy for your situation, plus some top picks.

There is no one best travel insurance for backpackers. The right plan for you will depend on where you travel — Europe, Latin America, Asia? — and how long you plan to travel. You'll also want to consider the type of coverage you will need. Here are some things you might want to consider when looking for travel insurance as a backpacker:

Medical emergency insurance 

If you need medical care when traveling outside your home country, you will want to have insurance that covers your costs. In the United States, many insurance plans don't cover international travel . Those that do typically consider most services performed outside of the United States to be out-of-network. This means, at a minimum, you'll likely pay higher deductibles and fewer services may be covered.

Travel disruptions

Flight delays and cancellations happen and you'll want to be prepared. Many travelers receive some trip interruption and trip delay insurance through their credit card, but coverage limits and exclusions vary depending on the type of card you hold. Coverage for travel disruptions can also be purchased as part of a travel insurance plan and help you recover your losses if your plans change due to various reasons, from flight delays to illness.

Emergency evacuation

If you need to be evacuated from a country, you might be able to get some coverage through the credit card you used to book your trip. However, not all credit cards cover every situation. For example, some cards may cover emergency medical evacuation but won't help if you must evacuate because of political unrest or sudden armed conflict.

» Learn more: The guide to emergency evacuation insurance

Repatriation of remains

If the worst should happen and you want your remains to be shipped home should you die overseas, you'll want to be insured for repatriation of remains. Out-of-pocket costs for repatriation can be upwards of $10,000, so it can be a good idea to include this coverage in your travel insurance.

Length exclusions

Some policies only offer coverage for trips of a particular duration, while others require you to return to your home country periodically. When selecting your travel insurance plan, pay special attention to what lengths of trips are covered and make sure your plan doesn't exclude the type of travel you plan to do.

Coverage in your home country

Be sure you understand what your travel insurance covers when visiting your country of residence, especially regarding medical costs. Often, travel insurance providers exclude or offer lower coverage amounts for travel within your country of residence.

Other types of coverage

There are various options and add-ons regarding travel insurance, and some may be more important to you than others. As you shop around, consider whether you want coverage for any of the following:

COVID-19 coverage .

Baggage delay insurance .

Pre-existing medical conditions .

Accidental death and dismemberment .

Rental car coverage .

Cancel For Any Reason coverage .

» Learn more: Best long-term travel insurance

1. World Nomads — Great insurance for up to six months

World Nomads provides comprehensive travel insurance. The company's standard plans include all the essentials: $100,000 of emergency medical coverage, $300,000 of emergency evacuation insurance, $2,500 of trip cancellation and interruption coverage and $1,000 against loss, theft or damage of your gear.

The coverage includes repatriation of remains, trip delay and accidental death and dismemberment coverage. More significant coverage limits are also available through the company's Explorer plan.

One downside to World Nomads is that their travel insurance isn't available if you will be gone for more than 180 days. So, if you're a backpacker or digital nomad traveling for longer than that, you'll want to look elsewhere.

2. Safety Wing — An option for long-term backpackers

Nomad Insurance by Safety Wing is an insurance product underwritten by Lloyd's. The Nomad Insurance policy includes medical coverage up to $250,000, including hospital stays, ambulance transportation and physical therapy. The policy also provides trip interruption, trip delay, emergency medical evacuation and political evacuation coverage.

Two notable benefits of Safety Wing are that you can purchase the insurance when you're already abroad and extend your coverage as you go — instrumental if you're not sure when you'll return home. In addition, if you sign up for an automatic renewal plan, Safety Wing will extend your insurance coverage every 28 days. Your insurance can continue indefinitely until you pick an end date.

3. Battleface — Coverage for adventurous backpackers

Some travel insurance providers exclude high-risk activities — such as scuba diving, skiing or rock climbing — from coverage. If you're more adventurous than the average backpacker and want coverage for these types of activities, consider Battleface.

The company offers policies that cover trip cancellation, interruption and delay. Its coverage also includes $250,000 of medical expenses and personal property protection. However, digital nomads or long-term backpackers may need to look elsewhere for coverage. Battleface's annual plan covers unlimited trips, but any trip can only be 40 days long.

4. Allianz — For frequent travelers who return home often

Allianz is a globally-known insurer that offers travel insurance. Its plans for travelers include coverage for emergency medical, emergency medical transport, lost or delayed baggage, travel delays, rental car damage or theft and more. Coverage levels depend on which plan you purchase, and some benefits — such as rental car insurance — are optional add-ons.

Allianz offers travel insurance per trip through its OneTrip plans and year-long coverage through its AllTrips offerings. However, most AllTrips plans only insure trips for up to 45 days, so if you travel but return home frequently, Allianz might be a good option.

» Learn more: How much is travel insurance?

When traveling, everyone's situation is different. What might be the best backpacking travel insurance for you might not work for your travel companion. To find the best plan for you, here are some things to consider:

Understand your travel plans 

Your travel plans will dictate what insurance options are available to you. Are you planning on backpacking for a month, three months, a year, or indefinitely? Which countries do you plan on visiting? Will you return home frequently? Make sure that your travel insurance plan covers your situation.

Take inventory of what coverage levels you need 

As you research, consider what coverage you think you'll need. You'll probably want basic medical and emergency evacuation coverage, at a minimum. Beyond that, consider your risk tolerance and the probability that you'll need to file a claim.

Start with our recommendations 

Our recommendations are far from the only providers of backpacker insurance out there. Use them as a starting point, but get suggestions from friends and read reviews of different insurance providers before purchasing coverage.

Finding the right travel insurance will take some time and require research. Take a look at your travel plans, understand what coverage you need and use our list as a starting point. If you put in some time upfront to find the right backpacking travel insurance, once you're abroad, you can spend your time enjoying the journey.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

The Best Backpacker Travel Insurance – 17 Options Compared

In this guide to the best backpacker travel insurance we compared the 17 most popular providers –  you’ll be surprised which was the best!

Do you really need to get travel insurance?

It’s probably a familiar question. It’s certainly one I ask before every single trip.

Even as a cyclist, hiker, climber, traveller and general accident-prone backpacker, travel insurance is something I’ve always been dubious of. I don’t like insurance companies and the concept of paying for something you may never use has always seemed alien.

Then, at some point or another, you have a personal experience where travel insurance quite literally saves your life. 

Whether it’s lying in a hospital bed in Indonesia with Dengue Fever, filing for a stolen bag in Barcelona, having a bot fly cut from your head in Panama or needing to return home to visit ill family… there comes a point in every trip I realise yes, yes you definitely do need travel insurance (and, yes, they are all things I’ve had to claim for). 

Unfortunately, it’s not that easy finding the right policy and travel insurance companies don’t make it any simpler. There are SO many different options, so many different prices and the small print is too often clouded behind technical jargon. Altogether it can be very hard to know what you’re getting and which policy is best for you.

Should you pay an extra £50 and get added cover?

Is it worth paying for a lower excess?

What even is liability insurance?

In this guide to backpacker travel insurance, we’ll explain all the jargon and the nitty-gritty stuff you need to consider when finding a policy. We’ve also compared 17 of the most popular backpacker insurance policies to see which is the best – y ou’ll be happy to know it’s not always the most expensive!

In this article, you’ll find:

• What is the difference between backpacker and travel insurance
• Why you should never travel without it
• Insurance terminology explained
• Things to look out for when finding a policy
• Picking the best travel insurance for YOU
• Travel insurance activity packs
• When to buy backpacker insurance
• How to make an insurance claim abroad
• 17 popular backpacker insurance options compared
• The best insurance policies in detail

What is the difference between backpacker and travel insurance?

First things first, backpacker travel insurance is specifically designed for backpackers going to multiple destinations over a longer period of time. It is also sometimes under the same umbrella as long-term travel insurance. 

Compared to regular travel insurance policies, backpacker insurance can be used for trips ranging from 3-18 months (sometimes more). It covers a wider range of activities like hiking , diving, skiing, working with animals etc and has extra precautions for things more likely to occur on a backpacking trip.

The best travel insurance policies will include:

• Medical and dental cover  ranging from small prescriptions to major surgery
• Baggage, electrical and documents cover also covering things like bicycles, outdoors or camera equipment
• Legal cover and advice  paying for lawyers’ fees to political support if there is civil unrest
• Cover if you cancel or change your trip  also includes transport delays
• Home visits  if you need to return home during your trip
• Hostage cover  everything from ransom fees to paying for negotiators
• Natural disaster cover  hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes, wildfires etc
• A good level of sports and activities this is often included in the price rather than an additional cost

Note. most of the insurance policies in this article require you to be currently in the UK and not already travelling

Do you even need backpacker travel insurance?

The simple answer is, yes.

Whether you’re a disaster-prone adventurer cycling from England to India,  a couple planning on Interrailing through Europe or you’re going to be backpacking Asia on a gap year, insurance is a no brainer. 

These are just some things which could easily happen to anyone on any journey

• You lose your passport and need a replacement
• You get sick or injured during your trip
• You miss a train and end up stranded
• There is political unrest and you need legal support
• A family member becomes ill and you have to return home

Many of these things could be out of your control when you’re travelling and an accident might be no fault of your own. Overseas legal or medical fees are outstandingly high so having insurance as a safety net can be life-saving. It can also protect you from the crippling financial hardship you’ll face after paying fees from your own pocket.

And, if you’re a renegade thinking “I’ll be fine” then think of your friends and family. If you need emergency medical treatment it will likely be them having to pay for it. Ask many backpackers around the world and they’ll likely have a number of tales where travel insurance has saved their skin!

Why we’ll never travel without backpacking travel insurance again

At some point during all of my backpacking trips, I’ve needed some kind of medical attention, police support or legal advice. However, during our year in Vietnam 3 things happened which made me realise I’d never travel without comprehensive insurance again. 

• We met a friend who had developed a serious leg infection whilst hiking in China. This infection had him hospitalised, close to the point of a leg amputation and nearly death. He did have cheap backpacker insurance but it didn’t cover hiking. His family had to pay tens of thousands of pounds and start a crowdfunding campaign to get him medically transferred to a Thai hospital and then back to his home in Ireland. With the right insurance policy, this would have been covered. 
• Whilst living in Hanoi there were constant stories of travellers and expats having fatal motorbike accidents. Without insurance, it can cost friends and family more than £10,000 to have the body sent home. Morbid I know, but a game-changer for us. 
• The thing which really hit home was when my mum became extremely ill during our time living in Hanoi. We had very little money but we were able to immediately return to the UK and claim for our flights and possessions left in Vietnam. Mum is much better now!

Bottom line is, you might have dozens of trips without needing to make a claim but it’s worth the money for the one trip you do. Need some more convincing? Check out these travel horror stories !

The Best Backpacker Insurance Buyer’s Guide and Tips

As mentioned there are many different types of policy options, some which might be useful to you, others which might not. In this section, we’ll go through all of the things you need to look out for to find the right policy. 

1. What does it all mean? Travel insurance terminology

Before we get into things it’s probably best to go over some travel insurance terminology. It can be seriously confusing reading through the small print and policy wordings so this should help explain some of the confusing parts. 

Baggage cover

This generally covers the baggage and belongings you take with you, including travel documents and bank cards. This sometimes covers electronics and outdoors equipment too but you will need to check the small print. 

Cancellation

Cover if you have to cancel your trip before you travel.

Cooling off period

The length of time you have to cancel your policy.

Curtailment  

Cover if your travels are changed or disrupted during your trip. This often includes travel delays, like missed transport or travel changes due to injury, illness or from returning home. 

Deductible or excess fees

The amount of money you will need to pay before your travel insurance starts to make payment. This may be shown as “Baggage cover – £3,000 (£50 excess)”.

Cover for any legal costs resulting from accidents with other people or their possessions. 

Personal accident

This is a compensation payment made if you have an accident, resulting in death, loss of limbs, loss of sight etc. 

Repatriation

The costs of sending an ill or deceased person to their home country. 

Single trip Vs. Multi-trip insurance

Most travel insurance policies cover you from when you leave the country to the point you return home. Multi-trip travel insurance covers you for multiple trips taken over a certain period of time. This may be useful for business people with a number of trips in the space of a few months but is less useful for backpackers.

Single trip vs. long-term vs. backpackers travel insurance

Single trip insurance is often available for shorter trips and won’t cover as many activities. Long-term insurance is regularly aimed at travellers visiting one country for a longer period of time whilst backpacking insurance is for multiple countries, varying lengths of time and with additional cover for activities. 

Sometimes the terms  backpacker  and  long-term  are actually given to very similar policies so you need to check to see what they provide. 

Single article limit

The most you’re covered for a single item e.g. if your single article limit is £500 and you have a £1,000 camera stolen your insurance provider will only pay up to £500.

Any other terms you found confusing when you were looking for insurance? Tell us in the comments so we can add it in for other readers 🙂 

2. What to look for when buying travel insurance

• Medical, cancellation and curtailment, legal, liability and repatriation are the most important aspects – find the policy that has the best cover
• Always read the policy wording and small print so you know what is included 
• Check you’re covered for any existing medical conditions you may have
• Make sure you’re covered for all the destinations you’re visiting and the activities you’re doing (sometimes they’re an add-on)
• Check all of your baggage is covered and that gadgets cover isn’t additional
• If you’re travelling with expensive gear or equipment make sure the single article limit is high enough
•  A 24-hour emergency helpline is very useful to have
• If hiking or climbing make sure you don’t go above the altitude you’re covered for, for campers check your baggage is covered whilst in the tent
• Find out how much cash you are covered for and try not to carry more than that on you
• See what the excess is and decide what you would be able to pay
• Some insurance policies won’t cover periods of voluntary or paid work – check the policy
• Age restrictions may apply and if you have pre-existing medical conditions then make sure you state them
• It’s great having the option to return home – some providers include this

Things which are generally not covered – cruises and winter sports, alcohol or drug-related accidents, failure to declare medical conditions, stolen items which weren’t reported. 

3. What’s the best travel insurance policy for backpackers?

Everyone’s travel plans are different – if you’re planning on hiking the Dolomites your activities will be very different to someone city hopping, for example. T hink of what type of trip you’re going on and what is most important for you.

As an example, we no longer take flights and instead cycle so curtailment cover isn’t very useful. We do a lot of outdoor activities and travel with expensive camera equipment so it’s important we have good medical and baggage cover. 

Think of the where you’re going, what you’re going to be taking and what you’ll be doing. If you’re planning a city trip then having adventure activities covered probably isn’t a necessity. If you’re going to be hiking Everest Base Camp then check to see if you’re covered. 

4. Travel insurance activity packs

If you know you’ll be doing lots of potentially ‘hazardous’ activities (climbing, hiking, rafting, skiing, bungee jumping, sky diving, cage diving, martial arts training etc.) then it’s especially important to find a fitting policy. Commonly these will be covered in different ‘activity packs’ for you to choose from. 

Typically, insurance providers have a base range of activities which are automatically covered, with backpacker insurance being more comprehensive than other insurance types. Take a read through the policy to see what’s included and works for your trip. 

If you’re not covered with the base activities then you’ll normally have two options depending on the company.

Firstly , with some policies, you can buy an add-on pack which will include a larger range of more serious outdoor activities. For things like hiking and climbing, this may cover you for higher altitudes or diving for deeper water.

Secondly , other policies have the option to pay for each activity as an add-on which may be cheaper than upgrading a whole pack. If you are planning something deemed as potentially very hazardous you may need to get an individual quote from the provider. This may include technical climbing, alpine hiking, adventure races etc. 

5. When to buy your backpacking travel insurance – IMPORTANT!

As soon as you make a payment towards the trip.

If you’ve booked accommodation, tours or transport and your plans change then your insurance can cover it, even if you’ve not left the country yet. Many providers will actually require you to buy insurance within a certain window of making your first travel payment. 

6. How to make a travel insurance claim whilst you’re abroad

It’s very important to keep a copy of your insurance policy with you when you travel as each provider will have different claiming procedures . Keep a hard copy and one backed-up online just to be safe.

When making a claim for any policy you should…

• Get a police statement if it’s relevant – if you have items stolen or broken, have been assaulted and need medical treatment etc. then make sure you have a police statement to confirm it
• Contact your insurer  to see what they advise and to check what’s covered in your policy
• Try and collect evidence  this may be receipts for bought items, travel tours, transport or medical bills etc. to give to your insurance provider

Backpacker Travel Insurance Comparison – 17 Popular Options

There are hundreds of insurance options out there, many with similar policies but very different prices. Finding out which is the best can be tough work so we’ve put it all into one place for you to compare. 

We looked at the 17 most popular options to see how they faired against each other. For the best options, you’ll also find a more detailed breakdown at the bottom so you can decide which one is best for you. 

What we searched for

To find these policies we looked for the best-rated backpacker and long-term travel insurance options in the UK on public review sites like Trust Pilot and Feefo . We also collected suggestions from Google, travel agents, insurance comparison sites and user reviews. 

All details were taken directly from the provider’s official website, searching with exactly the same details for the same trip.

This is what we searched for:

• 12 months of cover
• Leaving Saturday 27th July 2019
• For one 28-year-old male
• From the UK
• Not already travelling
• Travelling as an individual
• On a single trip
• Travelling worldwide
• With no pre-existing medical conditions
• No cruise, winter sports or business trip options added 

No discount codes were added and if there were multiple choices from one provider the middle tier was chosen. 

Note this information was taken directly from insurers’ websites but may be subject to change. I have not personally used all of these services but have displayed their policies without bias or opinion in the table below. Some of the options may contain affiliate links, meaning if you purchase the insurance through a link on this page it will be of no extra cost to you but we will receive a small commission. This commission enables Veggie Vagabonds to run and grow!

The best travel insurance for backpackers… and some of the worst!

Below you’ll find all of the results, user reviews and policy wordings where possible. As mentioned above, make sure you read the policy wording before making a purchase so you can be sure what’s included.

There were other options which aren’t shown below due to them being either a) pretty rubbish or b) excessively expensive.

Backpacker insurance from the Post Office cost a whopping £1,038, £838 from Flexicover and Voyager, Leisure Guard and Sports Cover Direct also had very high prices. Interestingly, none of these providers offered competitive policies despite costing more than double their competitors… 

Keep reading below the table to see a detailed breakdown of some of the better options!

In some more detail…

World nomads, true traveller, world first & sta 🙁.

Despite these options being by far the most expensive (and often the most widely recommended) they really don’t offer competitive policies, particularly with STA travel insurance or World Nomads. Admittedly for my first long-term trip, I did go with STA gap year travel insurance, but this was 10 years ago before I was aware of other options. Take a look at other policies and save your money, no matter what other travel bloggers might be telling you!

If you have used one of these providers and had good experiences then we’d be interested to hear from you in the comments below

Alpha 100 Longstay – £180 🙂

Considering this is the cheapest option reviewed it is very competitive and you’re getting a very similar coverage to many providers double the price. Their options are easy to understand and you have the choice to pay more for a lower excess or less for a higher excess. 

The medical coverage includes dental treatment and there are good levels of baggage, legal and cancellations protection. I like that extra gadget coverage isn’t too expensive, as well as cheap additional activity coverage. On top of this, it’s also got cracking backpacking insurance reviews. 

Go Walkabout Traveller Plus – £251 🙂

An option I have personally used for a year in Latin America and thought was very professional. I didn’t need to make any major claims besides a few prescriptions but it was all reimbursed very easily. 

Go Walkabout has good levels of cover where it’s most needed without breaking the bank. £10 million medical cover is competitive whilst also having cover for dental services. There’s also up to £500 covered for personal money (higher than many more expensive competitors) and £500 for kidnap, hijack and detention situations. Again Go Walkabout has good reviews online which I can personally vouch for. 

Cover for you Gold £307 😀

Cover for You has no excess charges and £15 million medical cover, that’s the highest medical cover out of all the insurance policies reviewed (and £10 million more than World Nomads travel insurance!). £3,000 is higher than average for cancellation and curtailment and they offer to pay for funeral expenses abroad. There are higher tiers which are more comprehensive and they offer one return flight home. This is an option we also considered before leaving for our current cycle tour.

Holiday Safe Backpacker and Longstay Plus £381.64 😀

Yes, this is slightly more expensive than the others we’ve picked but we think it’s worth it. It’s actually the insurance policy we’re using right now, and I’ll tell you why we went for it…

The medical (£10 million) and legal (£2 million) cover are competitive with other more expensive policies but the possessions (£2,500) and cancellation (£3,000) are higher than average. 

The extra things which sold us are the return journey home, which could make it useful for gap year insurance or new travellers, and Interrailling ticket cover of up to £500. We’re not Interrailing but it’s a nice extra. There is also up to £2,500 for clothes which is especially important if you’re doing outdoor activities with technical clothing. 

It’s also recommended for backpackers with gadgets, as there is £1,000 gadget cover, being one of the only providers to have it included without upgrading. It covers phones, laptops and computers and you are given one return journey home per policy.

I don’t know if it works but if you go for this policy and use this link (at no extra cost to you) we’ll be entered into a prize draw to win… an Amazon voucher!!!

Got your insurance? Here’s some other things to think about

Visa – many countries require a visa to visit, find out if you need one here

Vaccinations  – your insurance won’t cover you if you don’t have the right vaccinations – you can check to see vaccine requirements here

Accommodation  – find cheap deals and a variety of accommodation at  Hostel World , Booking.com or Airbnb ( £35 off your first booking with this code) . You can also use TripAdvisor to see what other travellers think!

Do you know any other great backpackers travel insurance options or tips? Maybe you have some extra questions? Drop us a comment below!

A Guide to the Best Backpacker Travel Insurance

A pretty extensive guide with all the tips needed to help you find the best backpacker insurance. I think we can all agree that finding the right policy is seriously important AND it’s nice to know you can get a great deal without blowing the bank. 

If you’ve used other insurance providers and had a good experience then let us know and we can add them to this article. Alternately if you had a bad experience, tell us in the comments so we can warn other travellers to steer clear!

Keep exploring…

The Best Debit Cards to Use Abroad

10 Super Easy Tips to Planning a Trip

All the Best Budget Travel Tips

There I thought I might find a few new options as we’re currently travelling without insurance… No such luck as your parameters are all different (and wrong for us). That’s always the issue with such recommendations or affiliate post: what fits for one won’t even apply to the next. We’re both 64 years of age (where some policies become very expensive), Australians (limited choices of offerings), travelling full-time (we have left already – years ago), and we don’t need cover for missed flights or lost/stolen technology (we’re travelling in a motorhome, driving instead of flying, and I can’t see the benefit of insuring our old computers, which are usually locked away safely). There simply isn’t a “one size fits all”. We absolutely don’t want to go back to WorldNomads; in 5 years we only had unpaid claims, none was accepted – waste of our time and money! I keep searching.

Hey Juergen, thanks for your comment! Sorry none of them are fitting, we searched based on the general readers for the blog to show a rough idea of what each company provided, but yes won’t be suited to everyone.

Frustrating they become more expensive but I think a few of the options are available for Australians. If they’re not directly I remember some of them having partner companies based in Australia.

We also don’t need cover for flights as we cycle but unfortunately could only find provides with this included. We also looked at getting everything individually (medical, legal, baggage etc) to avoid paying for unneeded flight cover but this worked out more expensive.

Does insurance change dramatically for RVs? We’ve never actually looked into it – though we do hope to get an RV at some point in the future.

Completely agree about World Nomads, I was surprised how little cover they offered considering their high fees. Hope you can find the right policy soon! Where are you currently travelling?

Thanks for the wonderful post!

It’s silly just putting up a load of prices and say “Choose the cheapest”. The reason why people like Nomads and TT have a lot of mentions everywhere is that they do pay claims quickly. Nomads were bought out a few years ago and they have gone a little bit downhill.

The only way to see about these companies is to go onto TrustPilot and just read their 1 star reviews. Holidaysafe has hundreds of 1 star reviews – most of them are about them not paying claims.

We haven’t actually said choose the cheapest, we’ve said that cheaper can sometimes be better. Something both Sarah and I can confirm, having used cheaper and more expensive insurance options.

We haven’t used World Nomads or TT but their coverage is far worse than cheaper companies we have used who have paid claims without any issues. It’s also frustrating to know that Nomads particularly are generally recommended online by bloggers who are trying to make money through affiliate sales and may not be giving completely honest opinions.

We’re yet to make a claim with Holidaysafe but will make sure to update the article if there are any issues.

Which insurance policies have you used in the past? Are there any others you would recommend?

It’s great food for thought which is what you are trying to achieve and sorry you got such unnecessarily unpleasant criticism from people who clearly know all the answers already; I don’t so it helped me! I’ll research further myself but you have saved me a lot of time by removing the first step of my research. Thanks Mark

Hey there Mark! Ahh, you’ve got to take the positive with the negative, ey 🙂 Glad it could be useful to you, are you planning a trip somewhere nice?

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The Best Backpacker Travel Insurance (2024)

with our partner, Faye

Alex Carver is a writer and researcher based in Charlotte, N.C. A contributor to major news websites such as Automoblog and USA Today, she’s written content in sectors such as insurance, warranties, shipping, real estate and more.

Tori Addison is an editor who has worked in the digital marketing industry for over five years. Her experience includes communications and marketing work in the nonprofit, governmental and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering politics and news in New York’s Hudson Valley. Her work included coverage of local and state budgets, federal financial regulations and health care legislation.

Here’s a breakdown of how we reviewed and rated the best travel insurance companies

The best travel insurance for backpacking trips is Travelex due to its affordable coverage for mult-destination trips. Travelex offers three plan options and a Travel America plan for backpackers making their way across the states.

From beachfront hostels in Thailand to campgrounds in Europe, a backpacker insurance policy can help you enjoy your adventure with peace of mind. Whether you’re traveling as a digital nomad or launching into adventure sports like trekking or scuba diving, travel insurance can cover the cost of unforeseen events or accidents during short or long-term backpacking trips.

Key Features To Look For in Backpacker Travel Insurance

Backpacker travel insurance is subject to your individual needs. According to the U.S. Department of State, the government does not cover medical bills overseas. Therefore, the agency recommends travel medical emergency insurance, especially if you’re participating in adventure activities. However, not all travel insurance companies cover adventure sports.

Trip interruption insurance can help you prepare for potential cancellations and flight delays, offering reimbursement of prepaid costs if interruptions occur for a covered reason. Emergency evacuation coverage is important in the event of natural disasters or civil unrest, especially if you plan on adventuring in rural areas. Ensuring your policy offers baggage and personal effects coverage also offers a financial safety net for lost or stolen belongings, including sporting gear.

While you may be able to find basic travel insurance with these features, the benefit limits may vary. It’s also important to note that not all policies cover adventure sports gear or medical expenses. Make sure to look for a plan with this coverage if you plan on adding sporting events to your backpacking trip.

Top 5 Travel Insurance Providers for Backpackers

Here is our list of travel insurance plans and providers to suit backpackers:

• Travelex Insurance: Our top pick
• AIG Travel Guard : Best for families
• IMG Travel Insurance : Best for medical coverage
• Allianz Global Assistance: Best for concierge services
• World Nomads: Best for adventure travelers

Compare Backpacking Travel Insurance Companies

We requested online quotes for our top travel insurance providers so you can see how much coverage costs . The chart below includes estimates for a 25-year-old backpacker from New York taking a three-week trip to Mexico, with a total trip cost of $2,500. Quotes are for basic plans with travel medical insurance, trip cancellation coverage and more. We also included unique coverage options, including cancel for any reason or CFAR coverage.

Best Backpacker Insurance in Detail

You can choose from three plans with Travelex Insurance: Travel Basic, Travel Select and Travel America. Travel Basic is a budget-friendly option for backpackers with sufficient coverage. Five optional upgrades are available with the more comprehensive Travel Select Plan, with a $50,000 limit for emergency medical costs.

If you are planning to backpack around the U.S., the Travel America plan provides emergency medical expenses and reimbursement for canceled events, such as ski resort closures.

Pros & Cons

Coverage & cost.

Add-On Options

Travelex offers a variety of add-on options, depending on the plan you choose. Upgrades include:

• CFAR coverage
• Car rental collision
• Adventure sports coverage
• Additional medical coverage
• Flight accidental death and dismemberment

Based on our quote process, the Travel Basic Plan costs $87 for a 25-year-old traveler on a 20-day trip to Spain worth $3,000.

If you’re looking for a travel insurance policy for backpacking as a family, AIG Travel Guard plans include coverage for one child under age 17 with the rate for a paying adult. The Deluxe Plan offers high-level medical evacuation and healthcare coverage up to $100,000, while

the Preferred Plan features up to $50,000 for travel medical costs.

If you are on a budget during long-term backpacking trips, the Essential Plan covers the basics, with 24/7 emergency assistance and medical care coverage up to $15,000. The Pack N’ Go Plan is available if you plan a trip last minute and don’t need cancellation coverage.

AIG Travel Guard provides a range of add-ons depending on your chosen plan. Some examples include:

• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage
• Rental vehicle damage coverage
• Security evacuations and interruptions bundle
• Adventure sports bundle
• Medical bundle
• Wedding bundle
• Baggage bundle

Based on the quote we requested for a 25-year-old backpacker traveling to Spain for 20 days on a $3,000 trip, the Essential Plan would cost $134.

*AM Best ratings are accurate as of June 2023.

From rafting to skydiving and bungee jumping, extreme sports fans can take advantage of IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Sport Plan. It includes sports equipment rental reimbursement and natural disaster evacuation coverage.

For long backpacking trips, the most affordable option is the iTravelInsured Travel Lite Plan, which includes benefits for trip cancellation, travel delays and emergency medical assistance. You can also opt for more comprehensive options with the iTravelInsured Travel SE and iTravelInsured Travel LX plans.

IMG offers the following add-ons with the iTravelInsured Travel LX plan:

• Interrupt for any reason (IFAR) coverage (up to 75% of trip costs)
• CFAR coverage (up to 75% of the trip costs)

Based on our quote, the iTravelInsured Travel Lite Plan would cost $83 for a 25-year-old traveler backpacking around Spain for a 20-day trip worth $3,000.

Allianz offers a range of affordable plans for backpackers, including the AllTrips Basic Plan, a multi-trip policy with year-long protection. Or, if you’re primarily looking for health insurance and have a flexible itinerary with minimal prepaid expenses, you can save money with the OneTrip Emergency Medical Plan. It only covers post-departure benefits, including unexpected events after your trip begins.

While Allianz also provides comprehensive insurance policies, budget travelers may prefer the OneTrip Basic plan for affordable, all-around coverage.

Allianz Global provides the following add-on options, which you can add depending on your plan:

• OneTrip Rental Car Protector
• Terrorism Extension cover
• Required to Work cover

Based on our quote, the OneTrip Basic Plan would cost $91 for a 25-year-old backpacker taking a 20-day trip to Spain for $3,000.

Whether you love Alpine skiing or rock climbing, World Nomads is a popular choice for adventurous backpackers. Its two policies, the Standard Plan and Explorer Plan, cover over 200 adventure activities and sports. The main difference between the plans is the Explorer Plan offers higher coverage limits.

World Nomads offers rental car damage coverage with the Explorer Plan.

We pulled quotes for both plans for a 25-year-old backpacker taking a 20-day trip to Spain. You could expect to pay $96 for the Standard Plan and $180 for the Explorer Plan.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Backpacking Insurance

Everyone’s different, so choosing the best insurance for your backpacking trip means considering your personal needs. Ask yourself the following questions as you consider travel insurance policies:

• Does the travel insurance cover all the destinations you want to visit?
• How long is your backpacking trip and if needed, does the policy suit long-term travel?
• Does the policy include sufficient medical coverage for potential health issues or participation in sports?
• Are there adequate coverage limits for baggage, gear and high-value equipment?
• Does the policy sufficiently cover missed activities and flight cancellations ?
• Do you require coverage for a pre-existing conditio n and if so, does the policy include a waiver?

If you are planning a long-term backpacking trip, pay attention to the duration of your travel insurance policy. For example, if you apply for a multi-trip plan with six months versus a year of coverage. And if you plan to trek around the globe, make sure your policy includes your intended destinations.

It also helps to check the coverage you already have before purchasing a policy. For example, your credit card may include rental car coverage or other forms of travel insurance.

What Does Travel Insurance Not Cover?

Most travel insurance plans cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations and delays , and baggage loss or theft. However, most policies don’t cover the following:

• Alcohol and drug-related incidents
• Extreme sports such as cliff diving
• Non-emergency medical treatment
• Flexibility in trip cancelation, such as changing your mind about flights or destinations
• Incidents due to negligence

Some providers may offer add-on coverage for extreme sports, non-emergency medical treatment and cancellation flexibility (CFAR coverage).

Travel Tips for Comparing Backpacker Insurance

Before buying travel insurance, it’s important to shop around, compare prices and read customer reviews. We suggest obtaining online quotes from at least three providers before selecting a policy.

Once you’ve found a few options that suit your coverage needs and budget, read the policy documents to ensure the coverage is right for you. Look for any exclusions or limits that may impact your coverage, such as a lack of adventure sports protection. If you don’t understand something, speak to the provider directly before making your decision.

Is Backpacking Travel Insurance Worth It?

Backpacking is often an adventure of a lifetime, but it is also an investment. Safeguarding your prepaid and nonrefundable costs, along with having financial safety nets for unforeseen medical emergencies, can help you enjoy a stress-free journey.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if backpacking travel insurance is worth it . If you’re planning to launch into adventure activities, top providers such as World Nomads, IMG and Travelex offer extra coverage. You can also opt for a basic plan from Allianz or choose AIG Travel Guard if you need coverage for a child. Regardless of your choice, each of our top providers can provide affordable options with sufficient coverage for backpackers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance for Backpacking Trips

Should i purchase travel insurance for a backpacking trip.

While your need for travel insurance is up to you, purchasing a policy can be worth it. Travel insurance for backpacking can cover medical costs in an emergency. Policies can also safeguard you against financial loss by providing reimbursements if your trip is canceled or delayed or your baggage or gear gets stolen. Some providers offer add-ons to cover rental car damage, highly valuable items and more.

What type of insurance do you need for backpacking?

The type of insurance you need depends on your destination, the duration of your trip and the activities you plan to do. At a minimum, backpackers should consider a policy with the following coverage:

• Trip cancellation , interruption and delay
• Emergency medical expenses
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation
• Lost or stolen baggage

Consider policies with adequate add-on coverage, like if you plan on participating in adventure sports or need a rental car.

What is the difference between backpacking insurance and travel insurance?

Backpacking insurance is simply a type of travel insurance with coverage tailored to backpackers. While some providers offer adventure-specific policies, you may find that a standard travel insurance plan suits your backpacking trip. Researching policy options can help you find coverage for your unique needs, including annual multi-trip plans for long-term trips.

Methodology: Our System for Rating Travel Insurance Companies for Backpacking Trips

• A 30-year-old couple taking a $5,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A family of four taking an $8,000 vacation to Mexico.
• A 65-year-old couple taking a $7,000 vacation to the United Kingdom.
• A 30-year-old couple taking a $7,000 trip to the United Kingdom.
• A 19-year-old taking a $2,000 trip to France.
• A 27-year-old couple taking a $1,200 trip to Greece.
• A 51-year-old couple taking a $2,000 trip to Spain.
• Plan availability (10%): We look for insurers with a variety of travel insurance plans and the ability to customize a policy with coverage upgrades.
• Coverage details (29%): We review the baseline coverage each company offers in its cheapest comprehensive plan. A provider with robust coverage earns full points, including baggage delay and loss, COVID-19 coverage, emergency evacuation and medical coverage, trip delay and cancellation coverage, and more. Companies also receive points for offering a variety of policy add-ons like accidental death and dismemberment, extreme sports, valuable items, cancel for any reason coverage and more.
• Coverage times and amounts (34%): We compare each company’s waiting periods and maximum reimbursement amounts for baggage, travel and weather delays. Companies that offer customers reimbursement after fewer than 12 hours of delays earn full points in this category. We also reward travel insurance providers that cover more than 100% of trip costs in the event of cancellations or interruptions.
• Company service and reviews (17%): We look for indicators that a company is well-prepared to respond to customer needs. Companies with an established global resource network, 24/7 emergency hotline, mobile app, multiple ways to file a claim and concierge services score higher in this category. We assess reputation by evaluating consumer reviews, third-party financial strength and customer experience ratings, specifically from AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

For more information, read our full travel insurance methodology.

A.M. Best Disclaimer

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If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at editors@marketwatchguides. com .

MarketWatch Guides may receive compensation from companies that appear on this page.
The compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear, but it does not influence the recommendations the editorial team provides. Not all companies, products, or offers were reviewed.

The Best Travel Insurance Companies for Backpackers

I’m a backpacker at heart. Even after traveling the world for over a decade , I still love to travel cheap, prioritizing experiences over fancy accommodation and transportation. I still love staying at hostels , meeting locals, and sampling as many local delicacies as I can.

Contrary to popular belief, being a backpacker is not about pinching every penny — it’s about finding value. If you want to have a genuine and authentic trip without breaking the bank, then you need to spend your money wisely.

And when it comes to backpacking around the world, one of the wisest choices you can make is to purchase travel insurance .

I know, travel insurance seems like just another expense that will chip away at your budget. I used to think that too.

But it also has the potential to save you thousands of dollars should something go wrong on your trip.

And after traveling around the world for over twelve years, I can confidently tell you this: things will go wrong.

To help you stay safe on your next trip, here is everything you need to know about buying insurance as a backpacker.

Table of Contents

Why Do Backpackers Need Insurance?

What does travel insurance cover, what does travel insurance not cover, the best backpacker insurance companies.

The reason you need to buy travel insurance is because accidents happen. Regardless of whether you’re at home or abroad, things go wrong. At home, you likely have access to medical care and reliable medical facilities.

On the road, that isn’t always the case.

While serious injuries are rare, they do happen. And it’s always better to be safe than sorry. But insurance isn’t just for medical emergencies. It also covers a lot of incidents that are much more common than you think!

I’ve had my bags stolen, I’ve needed to go to the hospital overseas, and I was even stabbed while traveling in South America .

I didn’t plan for any of these things to happen. But when they did, I was glad I had insurance to help me get reimbursed as well as to help me navigate the confusion that comes with having an emergency abroad.

While it’s unpleasant to spend time dwelling on these things, the truth is, you need to be prepared for the worst. Hopefully, you’ll never need to use your insurance plan, but if you need to, you want to make sure you have the coverage you need.

Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect your backpacker insurance to cover:

• Coverage for most countries in the world
• Medical emergencies (surgery hospitalization fees, medical evacuation to the nearest hospital)
• Flight delays and cancellations
• Trip cancellations (due to injury or a death in the family)
• Emergency evacuation (due to injury or natural disaster)
• Dental emergencies
• Lost or stolen baggage
• Death overseas

I know, as a backpacker you like to keep costs low. Insurance isn’t free, after all, which makes it seem like a burdensome and unnecessary expense.

But it’s much better to pay a few bucks a day than risk losing your life savings should an emergency occur while you don’t have coverage.

While most travel emergencies and injuries are covered by travel insurance, it’s important to know what is not covered by your plan. Knowledge is power, after all.

Most backpacker insurance policies do not cover:

• Accidents sustained while participating in extreme adventure activities (which often include hang-gliding, paragliding, or bungee jumping)
• Alcohol- and drug-related incidents
• Carelessness or negligence (such as if your bag gets stolen after you left it unattended)
• Pre-existing conditions or general check-ups
• Stolen cash
• If civil unrest makes your destination unsafe but your government hasn’t called for an evacuation (unless you have more advanced coverage from a company like Medjet )
• Changing your mind about your trip or unfriending/breaking up with your travel partner will disqualify you from trip-cancellation coverage
• If your visa to a destination is refused you won’t be reimbursed if you decide to cancel your trip

There’s only two companies worth using as a backpacker.

They are the best choice for long-term travelers as you can renew your plan while abroad and their $250 USD deductible keeps your monthly fee low. While their coverage isn’t as comprehensive as other companies, it covers the most important stuff, making them a good choice for travelers on a tight budget.

Here’s a quick overview of SafetyWing :

• Super affordable plans (with a deductible for US residents)
• Can purchase and renew plans while abroad
• Claims can be filed online
• $250,000 USD in emergency medical coverage
• Friendly and responsive customer service
• After being abroad for 90 days, you keep your medical coverage for 30 days in your home country (15 days for US residents)
• Best for digital nomads and frugal travelers

Insure My Trip also provides comparisons from insurance companies that cover older travelers (many travel insurance companies won’t cover travelers over 65), making them the go-to company for retirees and other senior adventurers.

Here’s a quick overview of Insure My Trip :

• Guaranteed low prices
• Coverage for senior travelers over 65
• “Anytime Advocates” ask the insurer to give your claim a second look if you think it was unfairly denied
• Compares 20 different companies to ensure you get the best plan
• Reviews of each policy so you can see what other travelers are saying

The huge benefit of using Insure My Trip is that they guarantee you won’t find the same policy elsewhere for less money! Click here to get a quote from Insure My Trip.  

Here’s a look at World Nomads at a glance:

• Tiers for basic and premium coverage
• Delay and cancelation coverage
• Can submit a claim after your trip ends
• Offers some COVID coverage
• Everything can be done via the website
• Trusted by brands like Lonely Planet, Eurail, and Intrepid Travel

World Nomads is more expensive than SafetyWing (roughly 3x the price) but they also cover more activities and include more coverage for things like cancelations and delays. In short, they’re best for adventurous travelers or travelers who want more more coverage and have the money to spend.

I never leave home without travel insurance. I’ve experienced first-hand how helpful it can be. It’s saved me thousands of dollars over the years — as well as countless headaches too.

Being a backpacker is all about having amazing, memorable travel experiences all without breaking the bank. And there’s no better way to insulate yourself from expensive (and unnecessary) costs than by buying travel insurance (Remember that Safety Wing is our top pick!)

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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What is the best Affordable Travel Insurance for Backpackers? The 3 Best Backpacker Travel Insurance Companies Compared

Here’s the complete guide to backpacker travel insurance, why you need it, and what it should cover. You’ll find a detailed comparison of the 3 best insurance companies that offer specific policies and travel insurance for backpackers to help you choose the most suitable policy for your trip.

So you’ve packed your bag, you’re ready to embrace the life of a backpacker, and are headed off on a new adventure!

However, before you leave, no matter where your chosen destination may be, there’s no better way to protect yourself on your trip than purchasing backpacker travel insurance.

The number of insurance providers out there can be overwhelming but no need to worry, this guide has you covered!

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. What is backpacker travel insurance?

You might ask yourself, what exactly is backpacker travel insurance and how does it differ from regular travel insurance?

Backpacker travel insurance is a type of insurance specifically designed for people traveling long-term and/or on a budget and living the wanderlust dream.

Not only does it protect you from canceled flights, lost luggage, and emergency visits to the hospital whilst overseas, it’s more flexible than regular travel insurance and will usually cover a broader range of countries alongside more adventurous activities .

Long-term travelers will often have a lower budget and often look for cheap backpacker travel insurance deals to cover a more extended trip. Because of this, backpacker travel insurance tends to be less expensive and more affordable than traditional travel insurance.

2. Why do you need backpacker travel insurance?

Backpacking is a lifestyle of traveling that brings with it the unknown, excitement, and risks that you probably wouldn’t find yourself taking in your everyday life back at home.

It’s so essential that you have travel insurance to protect you in all unforeseen situations, including any accidents and emergencies you may find yourself involved in.

Covering yourself with a comprehensive travel insurance policy can save you from spending thousands of dollars on medical expenses.

Not only that, if you happen to miss an important flight or if some of your belongings are stolen, having insurance gives you peace of mind knowing that these things will all be covered.

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3. What to look for when buying travel insurance

There are a few essentials that all travel insurance policies should cover:

• medical emergencies and protection (medicine, emergency evacuation, hospital fees)
• stolen, lost or damaged belongings (including documents and luggage)
• flight delays and cancellations
• trip cancellations (plus curtailment cover so that you can get home quickly if there is a death in the family)
• access to a 24-hour helpline
• Repatriation for you to get home (if you become ill, it covers the flight back home)

Other factors to look out for that could be really beneficial for you when included in your policy are:

• being able to extend your policy if you choose to stay longer than you originally intended
• a very high limit for medical expenses
• cover for any legal expenses whilst overseas
• a policy that covers most countries in the world
• high personal liability insurance (in case you cause any damage to someone else’s property or injure them)

It’s really worth doing the research and choosing a policy that is going to be relevant for the type of traveling and adventuring that you choose to partake in.

Read the small print and make sure that the policy covers everything that you need it to!

It’s worth paying extra for the peace of mind of knowing if something were to happen, your travel insurance is there to serve you properly.

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4. What travel insurance for backpackers doesn’t cover

It’s also very useful to know and worth noting what many backpacker travel insurance policies do NOT cover.

This will differ slightly with each policy, however, there are a few common things that you won’t be able to get cover for.

Generally speaking, these are:

• any drug or alcohol-related incidents or accidents
• injuries or accidents sustained whilst participating in some extreme sports/high adrenaline activities which in some cases can include hill walking, so make sure that the policy you’re looking at covers you appropriately for the activities you will be doing
• Pre-existing medical conditions are sometimes not covered
• any stolen money
• traveling to areas that have been deemed dangerous (natural disaster zones, or places with armed conflicts
• any flights bought with airline miles
• medical tourism (facial/body aesthetic operations )
• breakdowns due to poor mental health

The Ultimate List of Countries with Digital Nomad Visas

5. Useful tips before heading off on your trip

Once you have organized and purchased your travel insurance, a smart tip is to make a note of the company’s helpline number along with the number of your policy. Keep it somewhere easy to find with your other travel documents.

On previous trips, I found myself printing out parts of my policy so that I had the important information close at hand alongside my passport.

Make an extra copy, or email a copy to your parents or friends at home just in case you happen to need assistance and end up in a sticky situation where you can’t advocate for yourself.

Another handy tip is to document EVERYTHING.

For example, if you’re planning on buying and taking some expensive kit with you i.e a camera, laptop, smartphone or any other pricey gadget, make sure to keep ALL of the receipts.

It’s helpful for the insurance company to see that you actually have proof of purchase for these items and in the event of any of these devices being stolen or damaged you may have an easier time claiming back your money.

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6. If you need to make a claim whilst abroad

If you find yourself in a position where you need to make a claim whilst on your travels, it’s helpful to organize all of your necessary documents with time to spare.

Include any/all receipts, emails, documentation of hospital or doctor appointments, any purchases, take photos and images of everything that you think is relevant and include them in your claim.

As I mentioned above, by saving ALL of the appropriate documents, you can better support your claim.

It’s also important to be aware that insurance companies can take some time to pay out and patience is a good thing to keep in mind. 

7. What are the best travel insurance providers for backpackers?

There are literally hundreds of companies out there offering cheap backpacker travel insurance.

Whilst budget is an important factor for most backpackers, especially for people looking for student backpacking travel insurance, it’s vital that you purchase a policy that provides you with the protection that suits the nature of your trip.

There’s getting a ‘good deal’ and then there’s buying travel insurance for backpacking that doesn’t give you any cover for any of the activities you want to do whilst away and the relevant countries that you plan on visiting.

If you need to make a claim, you could end up thousands of dollars out of pocket instead of just paying that little bit extra at the start.

To head off WITHOUT travel insurance could prove to be a big mistake and according to statistics , if you plan on traveling for a long period of time, something is bound to happen.

I am not being pessimistic when I say this, it’s from my own experience and the advice of many other seasoned travelers and backpackers.

Bags will be lost, belongings may be stolen or damaged, you may become unwell and require medical care. At the end of the day, it’s just not worth the gamble.

If you have zero clue about where to start when it comes to buying backpacker travel insurance, please know that you’re not alone and that this guide is here to help.

I’ve gathered and researched for you my pick of the three best companies offering backpacker insurance policies and laid it out plain and simple for you to understand in order to make the right decision for your trip.

The top two travel insurance companies who I believe offer the best backpacker travel insurance cover are:

• IATI Backpacker

1) SafetyWing

SafetyWing is my first recommended travel insurance company.

Their Nomad Insurance has been specially created for backpackers, digital nomads, and long-term travelers.

They haven’t been around very long in comparison to other companies, however, they are quickly becoming a firm favorite in the backpacking community.

Not only are their plans affordable, with cover starting at $2 per day for short trips, they also offer long-term annual travel insurance plans for frequent travelers which is ideal if you travel regularly.

Unlike most policies on offer by other companies, SafetyWing doesn’t require you to provide a home address or a list of the countries that you plan on visiting which gives you the ultimate freedom to change your mind about your next destination.

They also offer a completely comprehensive travel medical insurance policy for full-time travelers and remote workers which is called ‘ Remote Health ’.

This plan covers any healthcare or medical care that you may require when traveling on a trip or if living and working abroad. It covers everything from giving birth to treatment for all kinds of illnesses, it also covers you for repatriation or evacuation too.

If you need it, you can add on dental cover, just in case you needed some work on your teeth whilst away.

The Nomad Plan is an ideal choice of travel insurance for backpackers who are already abroad because you can buy it or renew a policy during your trip at any point making it perfect for those spontaneous trips and life changes.

2) IATI BAckpacker

I only recently discovered IATI but I’m already a fan! That’s why it’s my third recommended company offering backpacker travel insurance.

IATI offers seven (!!) levels of cover, depending on your needs and the preferred way in which you like to travel.

They offer a wide range of different coverage for short holidays, destinations with high medical costs, long-term travelers, adventure travelers, families, and students alike.

Their IATI Backpacker policy covers you highly for any medical expenses and also gives you a high amount of personal liability. They cover you for all sorts of sports and adventurous activities, including scuba diving, rock climbing, trekking at altitudes up to 5400 meters and bungee jumping.

They also cover dental expenses, repatriation, travel and accommodation of a relative if you have to stay in hospital for more than 5 days, theft, damaged or lost luggage, travel delays, search and rescue and much more.

They are one of the few companies that offer backpacking travel insurance and cover any claims brought against you if you are held liable for any injuries or damage you involuntarily caused to third parties.

3) Heymondo

Heymondo is one of the latest top travel insurance providers for backpackers and long-term travelers.

Their policies are accessible and easy to understand and they offer a range of different coverage for short trips , annual multi-trips and flexible long-term trips . You can easily personalize your insurance to your type of trip and budget.

Their travel insurance plans already cover numerous outdoor activities and you can add Adventure Sports that will cover extreme activities from white-water rafting and trekking up to 5,000 meters altitude to bungee jumping and rock climbing.

Another benefit they offer is the ability to edit or extend your policy on the go which could come in handy for someone living the life of a backpacker.

8. Cover during a Pandemic (Covid 19)

A global pandemic isn’t something that many, if any travel insurance companies, would have probably ever covered you for pre-2019.

However, nearly three years on, here we are, the world a changed place for the foreseeable, and Covid 19 continues to affect people across the world. After numerous lockdowns, it’s natural that some people may be feeling anxious about the thought of being able to travel again.

Although numerous countries’ borders still remain closed, there are plenty of countries that are ready to welcome tourists and travelers back, in order to help rebuild their damaged economies.

We have all learned to adapt the way we live our lives around Covid 19 and travel insurance providers have had to change and adapt their policy offerings to support this.

The three companies that I mention in this article each have different components within their policies that state what you are covered and not covered for when taking Covid 19 into consideration.

Therefore, it’s important that you read through all of the information carefully and find out exactly what applies to you and what your specific policy covers you before you leave on your trip. If you’re unsure about something, phone the helpline and discuss the specifics with someone.

All three travel insurance companies state that they will NOT provide you with any cover if you decide to travel against the advice of the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office including any travel restrictions enforced by the government in relation to Covid 19. This would be, for example, if your country were to be in lockdown. As I said before, I know it’s a brand new world…

Heymondo states that their insurance plans cover all emergencies related to Covid. These include trip delays or interruptions, emergency medical expenses and cancellation charges.

If you were to contract Covid and become sick and require emergency medical care, any expenses in this instance would be covered by your policy just like any other illness.

Their trip cancellation even covers you if you test positive or if a close relative gets seriously ill or dies due to COVID-19 and you’ll be able to get a reimbursement for your pre-paid, non-refundable expenses related to your trip.

SafetyWing now offers coverage for Covid 19 under their Nomad insurance policy, which means you would be covered if you become sick and need medical care.

You would receive $50 per day for up to 10 days if you were to test positive for Covid if your policy was at least 28 days or longer. They will now cover you for lockdowns as well as quarantine coverage which is a more comprehensive type of Covid cover than other plans.

And with their Annual Nomad Plan , you can cancel it at any time. If you were to enter a country that went into ‘lockdown’ due to Covid, you’re not tied into a plan when you can’t actually travel.

All IATI ‘s policy plans offer coverage for coronavirus during the trip. This coverage includes diagnostic tests (PCR) prescribed by health professionals in case of symptoms compatible with the disease, medical assistance, medical transport, hospitalization, quarantine and repatriation.

A 10-day quarantine in a hotel is contemplated with the convalescence coverage included in all their plans.

9. The 3 best backpacker travel insurance companies compared

So I’ve briefly mentioned a little about my top three choices for backpacker travel insurance. Now let’s go into more detail about what each of these companies actually offers you and compare these backpacker travel insurance policies.

I want to help you get the best insurance deal that will cover you fully for your exciting adventures abroad.

1) Safety Wing

Safety Wing uses a monthly payment scheme that is subscription-based meaning that if you need to, you can stop or pause your cover when not using it.

It’s flexible because you can organize coverage for a specific date, monthly or annually until the end of your trip with their auto-renewal service. This is ideal if you’re not totally certain about the length of time you will be traveling for.

Safety Wing lists what activities and adventures are not covered on their website in a really clear and simple way which is really refreshing in comparison to trawling through the fine print of some other companies’ policies.

However, unlike World Nomads, Safety Wing does NOT cover any electronics . I would suggest that if you choose their backpacker insurance cover, insure your tech through a secondary insurance company such as a Gadget Cover .

Safety Wing also does NOT provide cover for any pre-existing medical conditions with the exception of cover for Acute Onset of a Pre-existing Condition – see here for more details on this .

Their Nomad Insurance Policy includes:

• $250,000 in emergency medical coverage
• $100,000 in medical evacuation
• $5,000 for trip interruption

Their policy also includes:

• coverage up to the age of 69 years old
• coverage from 5 days – 1 year
• great value for money at $42 USD per month
• cover for a huge list of activities and sports but NOT many adventurous activities such as paragliding, white water rafting or skiing off piste for eg. See the full list here .
• covers travel anywhere in the world (except for Cuba, Iran, Syria and North Korea)
• They offer home country coverage, including the USA
• You can include up to 2 kids under age 10 per family at no extra cost
• 24/7 assistance

Safety Wing – Is this the best travel insurance for long-term travelers?

2) IATI BAckpacker insurance

IATI offers seven different types of insurance plans, depending on your budget, type of travel and the duration of your trip.

The IATI Backpacker Insurance is specially designed for backpackers who are setting off to see the world without knowing exactly which countries they will visit or how long the trip will take. You can also purchase this travel insurance if your trip has already started.

However, it’s important to know that if you’re not a Spanish citizen (this insurance company is located in Spain), you can only take out insurance for trips up to 4 months.

Their monthly policies start at €127 covering nearly all destinations in the world. They offer 24/7 customer care.

This policy combines high medical coverage of €500,000 with and other specific upgrades such as adventure sport, search and rescue, and computer equipment in your luggage. You can also take out a new policy when you arrive if you decide to extend your trip.

The IATI Backpacker Plan includes:

• €500,000 in emergency medical coverage
• 100% coverage in medical evacuation and repatriation (including natural disasters)
• €1,500 for stolen or lost baggage
• up to €500 in trip delays
• €15,000 in search and rescue expenses
• €60,000 in personal civil liability
• €2,000 in cancellation costs, provided that you cancel before the trip starts and for one of the reasons set out in the policy

This policy also includes:

• emergency medical and dental coverage
• personal injury in motor vehicle accidents
• travel/accommodation of a relative in case you need to stay more than 5 days in hospital
• coverage up to age of 69 years old
• convalescense in a hotel
• sending medication abroad
• stolen passports & tech gear
• delayed departure and delivery of luggage, and missed connections
• extended trip costs if you’re stuck somewhere due to bad weather, natural disaster, political problems
• cover for a huge list of activities and sports. See the full list here.
• covers travel anywhere in the world

3) HeyMondo Travel Insurance

Heymondo offers three different types of insurance plans with policies starting at 65 EURO per month for European Citizens and 116 USD per month for USA Citizens.

Heymondo also offers an app service which comes with a 24/7 medical chat, free worldwide emergency assistance calls, extra lodging expenses due to medical quarantine, coverage of non-refundable expenses in case of serious illness and simple claims management options.

The Heymondo Medical Plan includes:

• $500,000 in emergency medical and dental expenses
• $500,000 in medical evacuation and repatriation

The Heymondo Top includes:

• Up to $1,700 for lost or stolen baggage.
• Up to $450 for travel disruption and $3500 for cancellation and interruption due to serious illness

Their policies also include:

• Natural disasters
• Medical transportation
• Personal liability
• Compensation for death or permanent disability as a result of an accident that takes place during the trip.
• Cover for over 140 countries
• You can add-on cover for expensive belongings and adventure sports.

The Heymondo Premium includes:

• Up to $2,500 for lost or stolen baggage.
• Up to $1500 for travel disruption and $7000 for cancellation and interruption due to serious illness
• Search and rescue
• Natural disaster
• Rental car access
• You can add-on cover for expensive belongings, adventure sports and cruises.

10. Which is now the best backpacker travel insurance?

You must think properly about all the things you’d like your policy to cover you for when comparing travel insurance.

Shop around and do some research first and then be sure to read through the terms and conditions carefully before purchasing your policy.

However, I wholeheartedly want to say that it is equally just as important that we keep our minds open to traveling and keep dreaming and planning epic adventures.

Backpacking can be absolutely life-changing and provide you with so much joy and give you a new thirst for life, meeting new people, exploring new places, and pushing the boundaries of your comfort zones. 

Regarding the BEST backpacker travel insurance, my top pick depends on the duration of my trip and the type of activities I plan on doing.

Every summer, I travel for 3 to 4 months to Central Asia to guide my adventure tours and to go trekking in the mountains.

These activities sometimes include heights over 4000 meters, so I take out IATI Backpacker Insurance . This insurance policy covers everything I need and so much more for “only” €127 per month.

If something happens to me in the mountains or I get stuck due to natural disasters, pandemics or political issues (nowadays we never know what’s coming…), at least I know I’m fully covered with the IAT I B a c k p a c k e r P l a n .

If I’m going on a trip longer than 4 months or on a shorter trip that doesn’t include me doing extreme activities or hiking above 4000 meter, I take out the Nomad Insurance Policy by Safety Wing .

Their plans are very affordable, and their unique subscription service also offers you a modern and ultimately a more flexible way to insure yourself whilst away compared to other types of cover on the market.

With rates starting at $42 per month (28 days) and covering you for most of the basics , they are a fantastic option for anyone working with a tight budget. Not only do they offer great travel insurance for backpackers, but they are also a good option for any digital nomads out there too.

I hope this guide helped you understand what backpacker travel insurance is and what to look out for when purchasing one. 

Even if you choose not to go with any of the companies mentioned in this article, please don’t travel without insurance.

Make sure that you’re covered, even if you don’t end up needing to claim whilst away, knowing that you’re covered (just in case) is totally worth it!

You might also want to read:

The Ultimate List of 23 Countries with Digital Nomad Visas (for remote workers)

Travel and volunteer abroad for free with these 4 work exchange programs

The Complete Guide to Teach English Online with 37 Online Teaching schools and Platforms

4 Realistic and Best Ways to Find Free Accommodation for Travellers

How to Make Money While Traveling the World including the 12 Best Travel Jobs

16 Things to Prepare for a Long trip – International Travel Checklist

2 thoughts on “what is the best affordable travel insurance for backpackers the 3 best backpacker travel insurance companies compared”.

I read your long post and realised than none of your three companies would insure me as a 64 year old long time backpacker. Shocking? Back to World Nomads I suppose as they insure backpackers till 70. What will I do then though?

Hey Linda, I’m sorry to hear that they all put an age limit for long-term travelers… I double-checked and indeed, they only insure long term until a certain age…

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Best Backpacker Travel Insurance

Getting travel insurance for long stays brings its own challenges - get the inside track here

We've ranked the best backpacker travel insurance policies of 2024 to help you compare backpacker insurance.

Top 10 Backpacker Insurance 2024

• Outbacker - Platinum Travel Insurance 🥇
• Explorer - Backpacker Plus 🥈
• CoverForYou - Gold 🥉
• InsureFor - Backpacker Travel Insurance (up to 8% cashback)
• Flexicover - Gap Year Gold
• Admiral - Backpacker (up to £8 cashback)
• Columbus Direct - Globetrotter (up to 20.8% cashback)
• Post Office - Backpacker Travel Insurance (up to 16% cashback)
• InsureandGo - Black (up to 16% cashback)
• Virgin Money - Backpacker Black or Gold (up to 11.2% cashback)

We created our list of the best backpacker travel insurance policies using an independent financial review service that rates how comprehensive a policy is; the score Fairer Finance gave each insurance company for customer happiness, complaints, trust, and transparency; the latest backpacker travel insurance ratings on Which?; and whether the company has won any awards.

Keep in mind that the best backpacker insurance policies won't necessarily be the cheapest. Our list should give you an impartial ranking of insurers that have an excellent level of cover and offer good customer service.

Best Backpacker Insurance: Reviews

Want to dive deeper? We have detailed reviews of many of the best backpacker insurance companies:

• Outbacker Travel Insurance Review
• Explorer Travel Insurance Review
• CoverForYou Travel Insurance Review
• InsureFor Travel Insurance Review
• Flexicover Travel Insurance Review
• Admiral Travel Insurance Review
• Columbus Direct Travel Insurance Review
• Post Office Travel Insurance Review
• InsureandGo Travel Insurance Review
• Virgin Money Travel Insurance Review

Designed to give you a complete picture, these reviews bring together expert analysis of the policies with feedback and recommendations from real customers. Just bear in mind that for companies that offer regular travel insurance alongside backpacker insurance, the information may not be about their backpacker travel insurance policy specifically (though it should still give you a sense of the company is seen).

Why is backpacker travel insurance important?

You could be carrying several thousand pounds on you without even realising it. An iPhone or a MacBook, a digital camera and lenses or perhaps your favourite jewellery - it all adds up.

Many of these items may make it into your bag when you set off on a backpacker trip, along with wads of foreign currency. If any of these possessions are lost, stolen or damaged while you're travelling, having good backpacker insurance can make all the difference. It means you can set out on a trip with peace of mind and make a successful claim if anything does go wrong.

Another key feature of backpacker insurance is its medical cover. British travellers often overlook these cover levels because we're used to getting free treatment on the NHS but in other countries, even those with low costs of living, medical care can cost thousands of pounds. And some hospitals may not offer you treatment unless they know you can pay for it.

Some people buy insurance and assume they're covered without looking at the policy wording.

What does my backpacking travel insurance really cover?

Travel insurance policies often look similar but subtle differences in wording can have a big impact on what you're covered for. Unfortunately, the only way to be 100% sure what your backpacker insurance covers is to spend a bit of time reading the policy document. However, we've highlighted a few things that are worth checking.

And please remember that cheap backpacker insurance is not necessarily the best backpacker insurance .

Does backpacker travel insurance cover gadgets and laptops?

Although laptops, phones and gadgets are often within your baggage limit, as high-value items they are classed by most insurers as 'valuables'. It is very likely that when you read the small print of your backpacker travel insurance policy, you’ll find it has a separate ‘valuables’ or 'single-item' limit, which is much less than the £2,000 total baggage cover. Check out our article on travel insurance cover for valuables to learn more.

For example, in Endsleigh's popular Essential gap year policy, the baggage cover gives you £2,000 but there is a valuables limit of only £250. You can’t claim more than this for ‘valuables’ so if your £1,000 MacBook Air goes missing, you won't get the full value back.

Does backpacker travel insurance cover cameras and photographic equipment?

Similar to laptops and phones, cameras and other photographic equipment (like lenses) are often classed as ‘valuables’. At this point, you might be losing faith and thinking that insurance isn't worthwhile at all but a good tip is that valuable items such as your camera or phone could be covered on a home insurance policy. Many providers will let you extend your home cover to include cover for your possessions while out of the house, including abroad.

Does backpacker travel insurance cover cash and passports?

Cash and passports are usually covered by a separate limit, similar to the ‘valuables’ one. It’s called the ‘cash and passport limit’ - for example, Outbacker's Platinum cover specifies £1,500 of baggage cover, but £400 for personal money and £350 for passport and travel documents.

In addition, many backpacking insurance providers make a distinction between "Personal Money" (which encompasses Travellers’ and other cheques, event and entertainment tickets and pre-paid vouchers) and "cash" (bank notes). So if you have all your cash stolen in Thailand but everything else is left in place, you might find you are only covered for a couple of hundred pounds rather than the thousands you expected. Outbacker , however, has the same limit of £400 for both personal money and cash across its bronze, silver, and platinum policies.

Our tip is to make sure you know your cash and passport limit and avoid carrying more than you're covered for.

Some of the best backpacker travel insurance policies may have higher limits than cheaper rivals. Their policy documents can help you compare cover before you buy.

Does backpacker travel insurance include cover for sunglasses?

Some insurers don’t separate sunglasses but some do because they are fragile and easily broken or misplaced.

For example, Columbus Direct Travel Insurance's Globetrotter policy has a £100 limit on sunglasses. With less valuable items it’s also worth checking the excess on your policy because they may be less expensive than the excess. This means the insurer will expect you to cover the costs if they go missing or get broken. If you lose a £120 pair of Ray-Bans but the excess is £100, you'll only get £20 for your claim.

Backpacker travel insurance exclusions

Backpacker insurance policies may have certain exclusions. It is important to read the small print carefully before you buy. Your policy might come with cover for certain sports and activities as standard but exclude other sports, for example. Certain items, like sunglasses, can be excluded from your baggage cover.

A lot of backpacker travel insurance, for example, will not cover you if you travel to an unstable country, or against the UK government's foreign travel advice .

Do I need special backpacker travel insurance for Australia and New Zealand?

No – Australia and New Zealand are included as standard, provided you choose worldwide cover from providers like Outbacker . The countries you need to take extra care over when it comes to travel insurance are the USA, Canada, the Caribbean islands, and (in some cases) Mexico. Because medical and healthcare costs are so high there, some insurers exclude them from worldwide cover and ask you to pay extra.

Can you buy backpacker travel insurance when you are already travelling?

Yes, some travel insurance companies will let you buy travel insurance after you've set off – two example are True Traveller and Big Cat Insurance . Bear in mind, though, that you won't be able to claim for mishaps that have already occurred, or medical problems you've already had symptoms of on your trip.

How to best compare backpacking travel insurance policies?

To get the right backpacking travel insurance for your needs you'll need to:

• Check the valuables limits so you know your cover for gadgets, jewellery, etc
• Ensure you consider the cash and passport limits to protect the notes you will take
• Read the policy documentation for specific exclusions

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Home > Blog > The Best Backpacker Insurance: Travel Insurance From World Nomads

The Best Backpacker Insurance: Travel Insurance From World Nomads

by Noelle Kelly | Last updated Nov 26, 2020 | Published on Mar 13, 2018 | 6 comments

Whether you’re planning a short-term holiday or a long-term gap year adventure, you’re probably busy daydreaming and finding endless travel inspiration for all the exciting aspects of your trip like the amazing places you’ll visit and the epic activities you’ll get to try. On the flip side, there’s also the not so exciting, practical considerations of travel. There’s lots of time spent seeking out  trusted travel resources  to research things like what backpack to choose, how much to budget, what (and how) to pack for your trip and what’s the best backpacker travel insurance. With so many providers out there, all offering different policies and coverage, it can be overwhelming to choose which travel insurance to buy.

Brian getting ready to bungy jump off the Kawarau bridge in New Zealand, the world’s first ever commercial bungy jump

Table Of Contents

The Best Travel Insurance For Backpackers

Do i really need travel insurance.

Trust us we’ve been there. On one hand, you feel that buying travel insurance is going to take a huge chunk out of the spending money that you’ve worked so hard to save for your trip. Justifying not taking out backpacker insurance with lines like, “It’s money spent just in case something bad happens.”, or “The places I’m visiting will have cheap medical care anyway.” and living with a positive nothing-bad-will-ever-happen-to-me attitude while on the road.

Brian surrounded by amazing views while hiking in New Zealand

This can end in disaster because there is, unfortunately, the other hand, that big huge negative “what if” frantically waving other hand. Heaven forbid that something does go wrong and you have to be medically evacuated to your home country, will your backpacker budget allow for that? With medical evacuation averaging roughly $20,000 in most countries – definitely not!

Noelle with a fracture in her ankle in South Korea, where we were covered under the National Health Insurance scheme

Or, how about if you’re hospitalised in a country with expensive medical care and you can’t afford to pay huge hospital bills because you didn’t take out travel insurance for Australia or the USA? That will obliterate your spending money compared with buying backpacker travel insurance before you go and you certainly don’t want your family back home to be hit with huge costs just because you didn’t take out travel insurance. Even in cheaper countries, medical bills can add up quickly – take it from us, it’s happened to us!

The obvious answer is yes, you do need travel insurance and when it comes to backpacker insurance, we believe that World Nomads offer the best there is.

Why Trust Our Backpacker Insurance Recommendation?

Travelling by motorbike in Northern Vietnam

Like our tagline says, we live to travel. We’ve been nomadic since 2009 and have lived, worked and travelled in numerous countries. Some of those places and jobs provided in-country health insurance, for example, when we were teaching English in South Korea we were part of the national health insurance scheme. However, most did not, so we know how important it is to be able to take out a reliable travel insurance policy when you’re out on the road.

Hiking to the top of northern Africa’s highest mountain Jebel Toubkal in Morocco

Everything from trivial, run of the mill things like dental check-ups and pap smears, to getting our travel vaccinations boosted, we’ve done it all while travelling. We’ve been sick, injured and even hospitalised on a few occasions on our travels and once needed to get home in a hurry for a family emergency.

Sea Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand – covered!

As this blog focuses on adventure travel, we get up to some, well, pretty adventurous things on our journeys. We’ve jumped off buildings and bridges, we’ve hiked to Everest Base Camp independently , we’ve scuba-dived down to WWII shipwrecks, driven questionable motorbikes for months on end and taken seriously dodgy buses on treacherous roads, gone hot-air ballooning as well as snowboarding and surfing. Having travel insurance gives us the peace of mind we need to find these adventures and really get off the beaten path.

Hot air ballooning in Laos – covered!

As long-term adventure travellers and because we’re backpackers ourselves, we really understand the kind of coverage you’ll want from a travel insurance policy as a backpacker.

They also come recommended by Lonely Planet (which is where we originally heard about them), Rough Guides, Intrepid, Nomadic Matt and Tour Radar if you need a second, third, fourth or fifth opinion!

A Little About World Nomads – The Best Backpacker Insurance Provider

Simon Monk, the founder of World Nomads , was a backpacker himself who struggled to get travel insurance for longer than a year when he set out to explore the world in 1989. In 2002, together with fellow backpackers, he developed the idea of a travel insurance policy with the freedom to extend on the road and take out again as you needed it. It was the first travel insurance policy of its kind with their main areas of concern being freedom, safety and connection.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers from over 140 countries and policy quotes depend on your country of residence, your age and where you’ll be travelling, so the cover provided and costs incurred will be different for each individual.

Fill in your details below to get a free quote.

Travel Insurance Coverage – What’s Covered?

World Nomads offer a variety of coverage packages, with every almost every adventure activity imaginable taken care of. You’ll notice there are also two options, Standard and Explorer. The Explorer plan covers a lot more scenarios like car rental waiver excess and trip delays or cancellations, for not much more cost.

Medical Emergencies

Brian had to visit the hospital when he had a nasty skin reaction around his eye after simply coming into contact with a Rove Beetle in Bali

This is the most common use of travel insurance and usually covers any hospital and medical bills incurred on your trip. Apart from this, emergency evacuation will also be covered with a small excess if you need to be evacuated to a hospital because you sprained your ankle snowboarding. In the absolute worst case scenario, repatriation of your remains home is also covered. Emergency dental treatment for pain relief is also covered by  World Nomads .

Trip Cancellation, Delay Or Interruption

Noelle sleeping during a night time layover in Istanbul, when we had to get home in a hurry

Under their explorer cover package, World Nomads will reimburse you if you need to cancel your trip due to injury or illness. Also, if you need to cut a trip short because of an emergency back home, they’ve got you covered too. If flights are delayed because of weather or a natural disaster, you can add cover for this as well, so you don’t have to be out of pocket because your trip didn’t go according to plan.

Theft And Stolen Goods

Make sure your valuables like cameras and GoPros are covered under your travel insurance

There are options to add on cover for things like baggage loss and theft as well as electronics and sports equipment. This is a great option to have if you travel with expensive equipment like cameras, laptops, lenses, hard drives and sports equipment such as snowboards/surfboards like we do. Luckily we have never had anything stolen from us on our travels, touch wood!

What Makes World Nomads The Best Backpacker Insurance Provider?

These are the features that set World Nomads above the competition when it comes to choosing a travel insurance company.

It’s The Adventure Travel Insurance

Brian getting some air time while snowboarding in Bansko, Bulgaria

With coverage offered on 150+ activities, like scuba diving, surfing, bungy jumping and snowboarding this makes World Nomads a great option when it comes to adventure travel insurance.

On camel safari in the Sahara Desert, Morocco – you must select Level 2 cover if it’s an overnight tour

Be aware that not all activities are covered under every plan. You may have to upgrade your policy and sporting level to make sure you’re covered for everything you plan to do on your trip. For example, to hike to Everest Base Camp you would need level 3 sporting cover as you would be “Hiking up to 6,000 metres (scrambling) on recognised routes”. The policy excess is also increased to €625 in respect of medical emergency repatriation by air ambulance or helicopter services within Nepal.

Click here to see what activities are covered in the basic plan.

Brian cliff jumping in Spain, which would NOT be covered by World Nomads as they don’t cover cliff diving under any level

Tip: As always make sure to read your policy wording carefully before you buy it and read the fine print to see exactly what is covered and what needs to be added on to ensure that it’s right for you.

Blackwater rafting in New Zealand is covered under Level 1 with the special condition that you’re with a guide

Make sure to look at the special conditions and exclusion clauses  too.

For example, if you rent a scooter or motorbike in Thailand or anywhere, there’s a special condition that if you don’t have the appropriate valid licence to drive a scooter or motorbike in your home country, then you’re not covered by your travel insurance even though this was not an issue when renting the motorbike. If you are in any doubt as to what you will be covered for, you can contact World Nomads directly or consider seeking out legal advice to ensure you are getting the right cover for your next adventure.

Simple And Flexible – Buy, Extend And Claim From Anywhere, Anytime

You can buy travel insurance online easily when you’re out on the road, as well as make any claims should you need to

Most travel insurance companies require you to be in your home country to purchase, renew or extend your plan. With World Nomads you can buy cover online , even if you’ve already left home as well as extend your plan if your trip goes on longer than planned. With their 24 hour assistance on hand for help and advice on medical emergencies, as well as the ability to  claim online  while travelling, they offer the utmost flexibility. It’s designed for people who are always on the move, making it the nomad’s travel insurance. The plans they offer cover all the essentials while keeping their prices competitive.

More Than Great Value Travel Insurance

Great experiences and fond memories of teaching English in South Korea

World Nomads run yearly travel writing scholarships and have created an amazing online travel community. They also keep you travelling safely with up-to-date travel safety alerts, and travel safety advice and tips through the World Nomads Travel Safety Hub . Add to that, their ethos of giving back   with the option to donate to worthy causes and support a community development project when buying a policy, all while highlighting and promoting responsible travel on their website. It’s easy to see that they offer so much more than just great value travel insurance.

Tips For Making Claims On Your Travel Insurance

Always read the fine print.

Delighted with life driving through Cambodia on our trusty steed “Wilma the Wanderer”

As mentioned already, I can’t stress enough how important it is to read the fine print in your policy. That includes the parts referring to the processes and documents needed when making a claim too. I know it’s long and boring but there’s no point in thinking that something is covered only to find out when it’s too late that it was not covered all along, simply because you didn’t take the time to read the fine print.

Tongariro crossing in New Zealand – Double check what kind of evacuation cover you’ll have for hiking and getting out of remote areas

Real Life Example: When we were hiking to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal , a girl twisted her knee badly, leaving her incapable of spending the following two days walking out of the mountains. As there were no roads her two options were to be taken down the mountains by pony, at a cost of $50, or to be evacuated by helicopter coming in at a whopping $10,000. She obviously was looking at going down by horse but because her insurance plan didn’t mention this option in the fine print, it didn’t cover it so she would have to pay for that option herself. So she ended up getting herself a scenic chopper ride through the Himalayas courtesy of her travel insurance.

This is one example where it worked out ridiculously well in her favour due to the black and white rigidity of her insurance company in sticking to the fine print. Clearly, this is a situation in the minority as the fine print will generally always favour the insurance company. This also serves to show how they won’t stray from it one little bit – even if it seems a bit mental!

Document Everything

Noelle getting ready to jump off Auckland’s Sky Tower

Travel insurance companies will not reimburse you if you can’t prove you had any valuable items with you or that you were actually sick. Document your illness and keep all original paperwork and receipts related to the doctor or hospital. Write down the serial numbers of laptops and cameras and your insurance policy number. File a police report straight away if anything is stolen. Make back-ups of these documents if you have to send them in for your claim too. Emailing them to yourself is a good idea.

Photograph Everything

Getting a quick wheel change on a rental bike in Northern India

Take photos of your valuable items with a date stamp at the start of your trip, as well as receipts of gear purchased and hospital bills. Keep the originals of these too.

I know this may seem like overkill and be quite time-consuming but this will all be worth it and will make filing a claim easier should you need to.

Why Choose World Nomads For Your Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance gives you the peace of mind to take selfies while driving (which you probably shouldn’t!)

While nobody wants to think about all the things that can go wrong when planning a trip, sometimes these things do happen. Travel insurance is the kind of thing you’ll only notice you don’t have when you really need it, so it’s definitely a good idea to take out coverage for these worst case scenarios. This is where travel insurance from World Nomads  can save the day, allowing you the freedom to take out a policy on the road, even just for a particular part of your trip. Founded by travellers, for travellers, they offer some of the best backpacker insurance policies on the market.

You wouldn’t drive a car without car insurance, or buy a house without taking out house insurance, so why should your travels be any different?

Disclaimer: We were not paid by World Nomads to write this article, we happen to use and trust their services, and we genuinely think that they are a great travel insurance provider and we love the ethos of the company in general.

Noelle is a pescatarian foodie, travel junkie and a massive dog person. She’s a self-diagnosed chocoholic and loves tea, coffee and red wine. She also loves to do yoga and therefore is the sensible, grounded one in the relationship! Noelle loves to really get to grips with the culture of a country and the mindset of the people. She also enjoys picking up a few words in the local language wherever she is and, of course, sampling the local food!

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So informative…it really gives me tips for my next trip!!

Thanks Katherine. We’re so happy it helps you with your travel planning! 🙂

I couldn’t imagine travelling without insurance. Great post 🙂

Thanks Natalia – we’re glad you liked it! 🙂

Great post! Love reading your post.Thanks for sharing your journey with us.Its really amazing.Pictures are stunning.Thanks for the post.Keep sharing.

Thanks so much Fred! 🙂

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Explorer Travel Insurance   Reviews

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One of the best for cruise insurance

Used initially in 2018 for insurance for a cruise along the USA East coast. Very easy to use their application form online. This was important as it was our first cruise, and my wife had several medical issues we needed to cover. In fact I still keep a printed copy to help me fill out other sites forms so that I can get an accurate comparison. This form illustrates perfectly the detail that Explorer go into with their policies.

Date of experience : 15 August 2024

Amazing Insurance company

Amazing Insurance company, never known anything like it:- they "don't "just take your money & hope you'll never use them.These keep you update of any changes you need to know about & generally keep you informed. Definitely recommend.

Date of experience : 02 February 2024

This is a trustworthy company

We always book insurance the day we book the holiday. Last year we booked a river cruise for July 2024 and chose Explorer because we had used them before. Disaster struck in January this year when my husband was diagnosed with mouth cancer and had to undergo a major operation which included reconstructive surgery. He would not be well enough to go in July. The claim process was on line and easy to complete. The only delay in our claim was due to our GP taking 6 weeks to complete the medical history form. We got our deposit back ( less excess) promptly once the we sent them completed medical form. I would recommend this company.

Date of experience : 22 January 2024

A small company with the customer at…

A small company with the customer at the heart. Bought travel insurance for myself and my 2 children (1 adult and 1 teen) for a recent trip to the USA. A very competitive quote even with health conditions. The great thing is that before, during and after, I received emails from the owner with useful info and tips should I need to make a claim, which felt like a really personal service. Will definitely use this company again.

Date of experience : 15 July 2024

Annual Medical Travel Insurance

Recently purchased an annual policy online from this company. The process was quick and easy to follow. Had to make a slight amendment which the lovely Amy dealt with promptly. They have a Facebook page called The Travel Insurance Club which is very helpful. Not had to make a claim yet so of course cannot comment on how well this would be dealt with but hopefully it would be processed in the same professional manner.

Date of experience : 01 August 2024

AVOID AT ALL COSTS

good value travel insurance but if in the unfortunate event you have to make a claim then this is quite possibly the worst company I have ever dealt with, I had a very stressful situation in Italy where my phone was stolen and 3 months later despite over 20 emails and multiple document uploads I am still waiting for my claim to be resolved, this company farms it’s claims out to 3rd party claims managers, in my case a company called Davies Group who are absolutely useless and very unresponsive despite constant emails, my next stage will be to lodge an official complaint with the FCA

Date of experience : 30 August 2024

Will definitely use again and recommend

Decent priced quote giving us everything we needed for our cruise. Luckily we didn’t need to claim but the peace of mind knowing everything was covered if needs be was worth the small fee. Great company to deal with, answered our queries quickly and efficiently. Will definitely use again and recommend.

Date of experience : 30 August 2023

Great Travel Insurance.

Explorer insurance gave us a good rate for our annual multi-trip travel insurance. We know we can get extensions to it if we decide to do any winter sports or similar (unlikely, but never say never!) We both have medical conditions which we declare and have to pay additional premiums accordingly, but these are not onerous. First class, quick and efficient service.

Date of experience : 01 July 2024

It was so easy to get my annual travel…

It was so easy to get my annual travel insurance policy online with Explorer. The price was quite a bit lower than my previous insurer. Not made a claim and I am hoping I don’t ever need to, but with all insurance policies you never really know how good they are until you need to make a claim. But I would say give Explorer a go as so easy online and good prices.

Date of experience : 24 April 2024

Competitive, Good Service

I took out 12 months travel cover with Explorer recently, which was very competitive and fully covered my needs, as the simple application was thorough. Luckily I've not had to make any claims, but since purchasing their policy, I get regular updates, tips and guidance, which makes me feel confident, that if I did, I'd get equally good service.

Date of experience : 01 May 2024

Straight. Clear. Honest

I can only say that I investigated several sites to insure someone of 75 with medical conditions. Explorer gave me the clearest information and was among the cheaper companies. Fortunately, I did not have to put them to the test during my 5 week holiday, but that is what we hope for from an insurance so there is no point paying a lot for what we hope not to use, while at the same time it is important to feel confident that if we have needs they will be met. Explorer ticked both boxes and I shall insure with them again.

Date of experience : 03 June 2024

Good price for those of advanced years

I found this company through the Blue Light card after having a bad experience with another major insurance company. Very good price for annual travel insurance for a person of advanced years. Luckily not had to make a claim so no experience of that side of things.

Date of experience : 14 August 2024

It was a reasonable price and easy to apply online

It was a reasonable price, covered what we needed and was not too hard to complete the application even though my wife has a number of medical issues that have to be declared. We insured a trip to Florida and hare about to travel to Bulgaria.

Date of experience : 16 May 2024

They offered a great price and options

They offered a great price and options. They seem a fun company to be part of - with regular interesting blog emails. I’ve not had to make a claim so can’t comment on how easy and straightforward that process would be but so far, so good

Date of experience : 13 August 2024

Simpler easier and cheaper WOW

I tried to get travel insurance with two other companies that frankly need to know if you stubbed your toe when you were seven ( not exactly but you get the idea) I was told about Explorer by my sister , who certainly does her research , and was delighted with the very simple straightforward online application the cover was better that the other two ( big ) companies and was cheaper . I only hope I don’t need them but hopefully they will be there if I do . Experience so far is excellent.

Our go to travel insurance

We have used explorer insurance for around 10 years. We find it meets our needs . Also we feel we are dealing with a person ( Ian) even though we do it on line. It’s important for us to be covered for our medical needs. We will be buying our insurance from him again very soon .

Date of experience : 12 September 2023

Filling in form was easy and useful

Filling in form was easy and useful, could find what I needed. Great price for my age, medical conditions and method of holidaying, cruise

Getting Holiday Insurance

The process of getting the insurance was easy to do. Cover for what I wanted was excellent, they emailed all the appropriate documents and kept me updated. The price was very competitive.

Date of experience : 12 July 2024

Full refund for cancelled holiday

Sadly, had to cancel our trip to Scandinavia by rail because my wife was struck down with a virus. Explorer paid out in full within a few weeks after I’d returned the forms. Great service!

Date of experience : 25 July 2024

From many insurance providers over the…

From many insurance providers over the years I feel comfortable with explorer travel company . They always keep in touch and are reasonable.

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Top 7 Best Travel Insurance for Backpackers in USA (2023)

Backpacking is a great way to explore the world, but it also comes with some risks and uncertainties. You never know when you might get injured, sick, or have to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances. That’s why it’s important to have travel insurance that covers your specific needs as a backpacker.

But how do you choose the best travel insurance for backpackers in the USA? There are many factors to consider, such as the coverage for adventure activities, emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation and interruption, personal belongings, and the cost of insurance. 

In this article, we will help you find the best travel insurance for backpackers in the USA by reviewing the top 7 options and explaining what they offer.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Travel Insurance for Backpackers

When you are looking for travel insurance for backpackers, you should pay attention to these factors:

Coverage for Adventure Activities

As a backpacker, you might want to try some adventure activities, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, or even bungee jumping. However, not all travel insurance plans cover these activities, or they might have some limitations or exclusions. You should check the policy details carefully and make sure that the activities you plan to do are covered. Some plans might require you to pay an extra fee or buy a special add-on for adventure activities.

Emergency Medical Coverage and Assistance

One of the most important reasons to buy travel insurance is to cover your medical expenses if you get sick or injured while traveling. Medical costs can be very high in some countries, especially in the USA, and you don’t want to end up with a huge bill that you can’t afford. You should look for a plan that offers adequate medical coverage, preferably with no deductibles or co-pays. You should also check if the plan covers pre-existing conditions, dental emergencies, and repatriation of remains.

Another thing to consider is the emergency medical assistance that the plan provides. This includes services such as 24/7 phone support, referrals to local doctors and hospitals, evacuation to the nearest suitable facility, and transportation back home if needed. You should choose a plan that has a reliable and responsive emergency assistance team that can help you in case of an emergency.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage

Sometimes, things happen that force you to cancel or cut short your trip, such as a family emergency, a natural disaster, or a travel warning. If you have already paid for your flights, accommodation, tours, or other non-refundable expenses, you might lose a lot of money if you don’t have trip cancellation and interruption coverage. This type of coverage reimburses you for the unused portion of your prepaid expenses if you have to cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason. You should check what reasons are covered by the plan and what documentation is required to file a claim.

Personal Belongings Coverage

As a backpacker, you probably carry some valuable items with you, such as your passport, camera, laptop, phone, or money. These items can be lost, stolen, or damaged while traveling, and it can be very stressful and costly to replace them. That’s why you should look for a plan that covers your personal belongings up to a reasonable amount. You should also check if there are any limits or exclusions for certain items or categories of items. Some plans might require you to provide receipts or proof of ownership for your belongings.

Cost of Insurance and Budget Considerations

The cost of travel insurance depends on many factors, such as your age, destination, duration of travel, level of coverage, and optional extras. Generally speaking, the more coverage you want, the more expensive the plan will be. However, this doesn’t mean that you should skimp on travel insurance or buy the cheapest plan available. You should compare different plans and find one that offers the best value for your money and meets your needs as a backpacker.

You should also consider your budget and how much you can afford to spend on travel insurance. Travel insurance is not mandatory in most countries (except for some visa requirements), but it is highly recommended for backpackers who travel long-term or to remote areas. You should think of travel insurance as an investment in your safety and peace of mind rather than an unnecessary expense.

Top 7 Travel Insurance Options for Backpackers in the USA

Based on our research and comparison of different plans and providers, here are our top 7 picks for the best travel insurance for backpackers in the USA:

1. World Nomads

World Nomads is one of the most popular and trusted travel insurance providers among backpackers worldwide. They offer two levels of coverage: Standard and Explorer. Both plans cover emergency medical expenses (up to $100K for Standard and $100M for Explorer), emergency evacuation (up to $300K for Standard and $500K for Explorer), trip cancellation (up to $2.5K for Standard and $10K for Explorer), trip interruption (up to $2.5K for Standard and $10K for Explorer), and personal belongings (up to $1K for Standard and $3K for Explorer).

One of the best features of World Nomads is that they cover over 200 adventure activities, from hiking and biking to skiing and scuba diving. They also have a flexible policy that allows you to buy, extend, or change your coverage online while traveling. You can also make a claim online and get support from their 24/7 emergency assistance team.

World Nomads is ideal for backpackers who travel for up to six months and want comprehensive coverage for adventure activities. The cost of World Nomads depends on your age, destination, duration of travel, and level of coverage. For example, a 30-year-old backpacker traveling to the USA for one month would pay $146 for the Standard plan and $215 for the Explorer plan.

2. Safety Wing

Safety Wing is a travel insurance provider that specializes in long-term travelers, digital nomads, and remote workers. They offer a subscription-based plan that covers emergency medical expenses (up to $250K), emergency evacuation (up to $100K), trip interruption (up to $5K), and personal belongings (up to $3K). They also cover COVID-19 related medical expenses as long as you are not traveling to a country with a level 4 travel advisory.

Safety Wing does not cover trip cancellation, pre-existing conditions, or adventure activities. However, they have some unique benefits, such as coverage for children under 10 at no extra cost, coverage for visits to your home country (up to 30 days every 90 days), and access to a global network of doctors and hospitals.

Safety Wing is an option for backpackers who travel long-term (up to 364 days) and want affordable and flexible coverage. The cost of Safety Wing is $40 per month for travelers under 39 years old, plus an additional $31 per month for travel to the USA. You can start, stop, or pause your subscription at any time.

3. Battleface

Battleface is a travel insurance provider that caters to adventurous backpackers who travel to challenging destinations. They offer a customizable plan that covers emergency medical expenses (up to $500K), emergency evacuation (up to $1M), trip cancellation (up to $5K), trip interruption (up to $5K), and personal belongings (up to $3K). They also cover COVID-19 related medical expenses as long as you are not traveling against government advice.

Battleface covers a wide range of adventure activities, such as mountaineering, skydiving, bungee jumping, and surfing. They also cover travel to countries with high-risk ratings, such as Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, or Yemen. You can choose your level of coverage and add optional extras, such as crisis response or political evacuation.

Battleface is an option for backpackers who travel to adventurous or dangerous destinations and want high-level coverage for extreme activities. The cost of Battleface depends on your age, destination, duration of travel, and level of coverage. For example, a 30-year-old backpacker traveling to the USA for one month would pay $106 for the basic plan and $163 for the comprehensive plan.

4. Allianz Global

Allianz Global is one of the largest and most reputable travel insurance providers in the world. They offer several plans for different types of travelers, but the best one for backpackers is the Annual Plan. This plan covers emergency medical expenses (up to $50K), emergency evacuation (up to $250K), trip cancellation (up to $2K per trip), trip interruption (up to $2K per trip), and personal belongings (up to $1K per trip).

The Annual Plan covers unlimited trips within a year, as long as each trip is no longer than 45 days. It also covers some adventure activities, such as hiking, biking, skiing, and snorkeling. However, it does not cover COVID-19 related expenses or high-risk activities, such as mountaineering, skydiving, or scuba diving.

Allianz Global is an option for backpackers who travel frequently within a year and return home often. The cost of the Annual Plan is $135 per year for travelers under 35 years old and $179 per year for travelers between 35 and 59 years old.

5. Seven Corners

Seven Corners is another well-known travel insurance provider that offers various plans for different types of travelers. The best one for backpackers is the Wander Frequent Traveler Plus plan. This plan covers emergency medical expenses (up to $1M), emergency evacuation (up to $500K), trip cancellation (up to $5K per trip), trip interruption (up to $5K per trip), and personal belongings (up to $500 per trip).

The Wander Frequent Traveler Plus plan covers unlimited trips within a year, as long as each trip is no longer than 30 days. It also covers COVID-19 related medical expenses and some adventure activities, such as hiking, biking, skiing, and snorkeling. However, it does not cover high-risk activities, such as mountaineering, skydiving, or scuba diving.

Seven Corners is an option for backpackers who travel frequently within a year and want COVID-19 coverage. The cost of the Wander Frequent Traveler Plus plan is $175 per year for travelers under 35 years old and $225 per year for travelers between 35 and 59 years old.

Cat 70 is a travel insurance provider that focuses on adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. They offer a single-trip plan that covers emergency medical expenses (up to $100K), emergency evacuation (up to $500K), trip cancellation (up to 100% of trip cost), trip interruption (up to 150% of trip cost), and personal belongings (up to $2.5K).

The Cat 70 plan covers over 100 adventure activities, such as mountaineering, skydiving, scuba diving, and surfing. They also cover COVID-19 related medical expenses as long as you are not traveling against government advice. You can also add optional extras, such as sports equipment coverage or rental car damage coverage.

Cat 70 is an option for backpackers who travel for a single trip and want extensive coverage for adventure activities. The cost of Cat 70 depends on your age, destination, duration of travel, and level of coverage. For example, a 30-year-old backpacker traveling to the USA for one month would pay $114 for the basic plan and $156 for the premium plan.

7. HTH Worldwide

HTH Worldwide is a travel insurance provider that specializes in health and medical coverage for travelers. They offer a multi-trip plan that covers emergency medical expenses (up to $1M), emergency evacuation (up to $1M), trip cancellation (up to $5K per trip), trip interruption (up to $5K per trip), and personal belongings (up to $500 per trip).

The HTH Worldwide plan covers unlimited trips within a year, as long as each trip is no longer than 70 days. It also covers COVID-19 related medical expenses as long as you are not traveling against government advice. It does not cover adventure activities or pre-existing conditions.

HTH Worldwide is an option for backpackers who travel frequently within a year and want high-level medical coverage. The cost of HTH Worldwide is $450 per year for travelers under 35 years old and $600 per year for travelers between 35 and 59 years old.

Why Do Backpackers Need Insurance?

Backpackers need insurance because they face more risks and uncertainties than regular travelers. Backpackers tend to travel longer, farther, and cheaper than other travelers. They also tend to engage in more adventure activities, visit more remote areas, and interact with more local people. These factors increase the chances of encountering accidents, illnesses, thefts, scams, or other problems while traveling.

Without insurance, backpackers might have to pay out of pocket for expensive medical bills, legal fees, or replacement costs. They might also have to cancel or interrupt their trip due to unforeseen events and lose their prepaid expenses. They might also have to deal with stressful situations without any support or assistance from their insurance provider.

Insurance can help backpackers avoid these problems by providing financial compensation and protection in case of emergencies. Insurance can also provide peace of mind and confidence for backpackers who want to enjoy their travel experience without worrying about the unexpected.

What Does Travel Insurance Cover?

Travel insurance covers different types of expenses and losses that might occur while traveling. The exact coverage depends on the plan and provider you choose, but generally speaking, travel insurance covers:

• Emergency medical expenses: This covers the costs of treating injuries or illnesses that happen while traveling, such as hospital bills, doctor fees, medication costs, or ambulance charges.
• Emergency evacuation: This covers the costs of transporting you to the nearest suitable medical facility or back home if you need urgent medical care that cannot be provided locally.
• Trip cancellation: This covers the costs of canceling your trip before departure due to a covered reason, such as a family emergency, a natural disaster, or a travel warning.
• Trip interruption: This covers the costs of cutting short your trip after departure due to a covered reason, such as a family emergency, a natural disaster, or a travel warning.
• Personal belongings: This covers the costs of replacing or repairing your personal items that are lost, stolen, or damaged while traveling, such as your passport, camera, laptop, phone, or money.
• Other benefits: Some plans might also cover other benefits, such as accidental death and dismemberment, legal liability, missed connection, travel delay, baggage delay, or rental car damage.

What Does Travel Insurance NOT Cover?

Travel insurance does not cover everything that might go wrong while traveling. There are some limitations and exclusions that apply to most travel insurance plans, such as:

• Pre-existing conditions: This refers to any medical condition that you have or had before buying the insurance, such as diabetes, asthma, or cancer. Most plans do not cover any expenses related to pre-existing conditions, unless you have a waiver or an endorsement from the provider.
• High-risk activities: This refers to any activity that involves a higher level of risk or danger than normal, such as mountaineering, skydiving, scuba diving, or surfing. Most plans do not cover any expenses related to high-risk activities, unless you have a special add-on or an endorsement from the provider.
• Travel against government advice: This refers to any travel that goes against the official travel advisory or warning issued by your government or the government of your destination. Most plans do not cover any expenses related to travel against government advice, unless you have a special add-on or an endorsement from the provider.
• Fraudulent or illegal acts: This refers to any act that is dishonest, deceptive, orunlawful, such as lying on your application, making a false claim, or breaking the law. Most plans do not cover any expenses related to fraudulent or illegal acts, and they might also cancel your policy or deny your claim.
• Alcohol or drug abuse: This refers to any act that is influenced by excessive consumption of alcohol or drugs, such as driving under the influence, getting into a fight, or overdosing. Most plans do not cover any expenses related to alcohol or drug abuse, and they might also cancel your policy or deny your claim.

You should always read the policy wording carefully and understand what is covered and what is not covered by your travel insurance plan. You should also contact your provider if you have any questions or doubts about your coverage.

Hi, my name is Sayan Dutta and I’m the creator of the ReadUs24x7. I am an Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering by qualification & digital marketer by profession. I am a passionate digital marketer, blogger, and engineer. I have knowledge & experience in search engine optimization, digital analytics, google algorithms, and many other things. I have knowledge in WordPress Website Development as well as image designing.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Philippines » Backpacking Panglao Island Travel Guide (2024)

Backpacking Panglao Island Travel Guide (2024)

Panglao is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and magical marine life. This tropical haven lures in beach lovers, divers and adventure junkies alike. From the endless stretches of sand, such as Alona Beach to its LUSH inland areas and secluded lagoons – there is a mixed bag of natural goodness for all to enjoy. 

Whether you’re up for exploring the underwater worlds of Balicasag and Pamilacan Island or diving into the rich indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial history – there is something to tickle every traveller’s fancy. 

In this ULTIMATE travel guide for Panglao Island, I’ll take you through the best things to do, where to stay, how much you can expect to pay and so much more.  

So, fellow globe trotter, keep scrollin’ as I take you through a journey on everything Panglao Island has to offer.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Visit Panglao Island?

Panglao has been climbing the ranks for travellers in the Philippines as a top place to visit. The island’s crystal clear waters, hidden caves and relatively developed infrastructure make for the ultimate holiday destination.

The island is an absolute paradise for those after a mix of relaxation and adventure. It’s the kinda place where you could be diving in the morning, jet-skiing in the afternoon and relaxing with a cocktail in hand at sunset. Orrr, you can just spend your whole day chilling on the beach, that’s cool too.

The welcoming warmth of the local people on Panglao makes you feel right at home. These guys have got their hospitality down-packed. Many locals have an American accent due to a mix of their colonisation history and pop culture, so expect an American twang greeting you with a “Hello mam, sir”.

I know I keep banging on about the beaches but the beaches in Panglao are THE reason that most people head to the island. When driving over the bridge you can breathe a sigh of relief as you venture from the bustling town of Tagbilaran and into the serenity of Panglao. Ahhh.

What Are The Major Attractions in Panglao?

The beaches are the major attraction in Panglao, but there are a few key beaches in particular that you’ll want to make sure you check out. And, believe it or not, there are other things to do other than beach it up! It’s an island with a real mixed bag on offer; from historic churches and deep caves to unique islands and endless beaches.

• Stop in at the infamous Alona Beach
• Venture down to the Hinagdanan Cave
• Hang out at the quieter, Dumaluan Beach
• Catch a sunset at a beach bar
• Go diving or snorkelling at Balicasag Island
• Take a boat trip to Virgin Island
• Taste some local Filipino food
• Soak in the views from the old Spanish Panglao Watchtower
• Check out the old Dauis Church (Our Lady of the Assumption Church)

How Long To Spend in Panglao?

The island is relatively small, so you could tick off the main attractions within a few days. However, I’m big on “ slow travel “ (as with most of The Broke Backpacker Team), so I spent a good few weeks on the island.

You’re a stone’s throw from the rest of Bohol, so although you can explore the small island of Panglao in a few days, you can choose to stay longer and explore the rest of what Bohol has to offer!

Panglao is one of my favourite islands in the Philippines. It has a special charm and endless places to explore. You plan to spend a quick 3 days zooming around the island, but if your itinerary can stretch a couple more, I’d recommend it!

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A Sample 3-Day Itinerary for Panglao

There are so many epic things to do in Panglao that condensing it down to three days is a challenge, but you know what? You can do it! Three days is enough to see the best of Panglao… if you plan it right.

Luckily, I’ve put together this iconic 3-Day itinerary for Panglao to help you make the most of your trip. If you have more time, I’d recommend an extra day where you can head to Bohol to see the Chocolate Hills and the Loboc River.

Day 1 in Panglao – Alona Beach & Hinagdanan Cave

It’s day one, you’ve arrived and you’re rearing to explore! Eeek, the excitement is real. So, let’s start off by heading to the iconic Alona Beach (you can’t visit Panglao without a stop here!) Grab a drink at one of the bars that line the beach and soak in the fact that you’ve arrived.

Once you’ve splashed around and relaxed in the sunshine, let’s channel your inner adventure junkie with a trip into the Hinagdanan Cave. This beautiful cave, under the ground, will blow your mind. Be sure to take your camera and take some snaps!

Day 2 in Panglao – Dumaluan Beach & Island Hopping (Virgin and Balicasag Island)

Day two – you wake up in paradise… so, what’s the plan? Let’s ease in the day with a trip to Dumaluan Beach (one of my favs). Try out some of the watersports or just relax in the sunshine. You can’t get too much beach time when staying in Panglao.

Once you’ve had enough sunshine and fueled yourself up with some lunch, it’s time to go island hopping! If you’re keen to head out to Virgin Island , ask around when low tide will be and jump on a tour to check out the island. If you can time it with sunset, even better.

If you’re down for some diving at Balicasag Island, you may want to flip the schedule and go diving in the morning and chill out at Dumaluan Beach in the afternoon. It’s completely up to you!

Day 3 in Panglao – Molave Cliff Diving Resort & Beach Hopping

It’s your last day on the island, so what’s left to explore? Check the tides and if the tide is high, you’ll want to head to Molave Cliff Diving Resort… especially if you’re into a dose of adrenaline to start the day.

The resort has a diving board straight into the crystal-clear waters below… there are lifeguards around and overall it’s a pretty safe activity. However, if that sounds tickle your fancy, you can also rent a snorkel and explore the nearby Molave Cove. Less adrenaline but just as much fun.

Once you’ve enjoyed this area, you can continue to beach hop around the island. There are loads of beaches to stop off at – from Momo Beach to Doljo Beach – you won’t be short of sand and sea to marvel at.

8 Top Things to Do in Panglao

Panglao may be small but it is brimming with activities to sink your travel teeth into. Whether you’re into channelling your wild side with cliff jumping and scuba diving or just down to beach hop around the island – there is plenty to do for everyone.

Here are my top picks for things to do in Panglao.

1. Visit Alona Beach

As soon as you arrive in Panglao, it doesn’t take long before the beach starts calling. Even as the jet lag may start kicking in, the tug to the sea is undeniable. Alona Beach is the most famous and popular beach on the island. It is very set up to cater to tourists – it is lined with delicious restaurants and bars, shops and plenty of water sports to choose from.

2. Go diving/ snorkelling at Balicasag Island

The diving around Panglao is out the gate, especially at Balicasag Island. Whether you’re down for a chill snorkel with the fishies or keen to chuck a tank on your back and go diving with the manta rays – this island provides some INCREDIBLE marine life.

Pro Tip:  If you wanna go  diving in Panglao , be sure to hit up Alex — he’s a LEGEND and really knows his shit… both under AND above water. Just reach out via WhatsApp and let him know I sent you: +44 7812 648968.

3. Take a trip to Hinagdanan Cave

So the story goes, that the cave was discovered by a local farmer after he dropped something down a hole and heard a splash. He chucked a ladder down and  viola  he discovered this secret GEM. The name of the cave translates to “laddered” cave.

The sparkly turquoise-blue lagoon is sheltered within a naturally lit cave and it is pretty damn spectacular. However, the cave is getting more and more popular… which is, unfortunately, taking away from its secluded allure.

4. Check out Molave Cliff Diving Resort (if you dare)

If you’re into throwing yourself off a platform and into the gorgeous waters of Panglao, this is a pretty neat spot to chuck yourself off. It’s one of the more adrenaline-pumping activities but it is bloody great fun. If you’re feeling unsure, ask one of the lifeguards or watch someone jumping off before you.

There are plenty of places to pop your things and relax. There are also snorkel rentals around as there is some epic snorkeling in the nearby Molave Cove. You won’t be short of things to do here.

5. Beach hop around Panglao

It’s no secret that the Philippines is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world – and those on Panglao are no exception. Whether you’re up for the crowds at Alona Beach or a secluded escape to the likes of Momo Beach, there is a beach to tickle travellers’ fancy. My favourite beach in Panglao is Dumaluan Beach. It’s a lot quieter than Alona, but it still has enough going on to keep you busy!

6. Go on a day trip to the Chocolate Hills

No trip to Bohol is complete without a trip to the FAMOUS Chocolate Hills. The Chocolate Hills has got to be one of the top things to do in Bohol . These cute little, round mounds of dirt are worth a visit. Shaped like Hershey’s Kisses, the Chocolate Hills go on for as far as the eye can see.

If you’re staying in Panglao and don’t have your own transport, you’ll want to check out this  Chocolate Hills tour from Panglao . They will pick you up, drop you off and take you not only to see the Chocolate Hills but also take you for an adventure around the Bohol countryside.

7. Take a cruise down the Loboc River

Loboc River Cruises are another classic thing to do on your visit to Bohol. The cruise is in a traditional floating restaurant (traditional bancas/ outrigger boats). Feast away on  traditional Filipino cuisine  while marvelling at the incredible views.

If you want to combine the Chocolate Hills and the Loboc River Cruise into a day trip, check out this  full-day Bohol tour .

8. Go on a boat trip to Virgin Island

Panglao itself is ridiculously gorgeous but just wait… there’s more! Panglao is surrounded by  more  tropical islands to explore. One of the most popular islands to explore is Virgin Island, this little island is TINY and has an incredible long sandbank that appears at low tide.

If you’re up for a bit of island hopping from Bohol, I’d recommend this  Virgin Island tour . Enjoy an afternoon relaxing in the sun, bathing in the sea and lapping it aaaall up.

Where to Stay in Panglao

Panglao is a popular spot to stay in the Philippines which means that although in high season it may be a little crowded… it still has a shit load of accommodation options. From budget-friendly stays to ridiculously high-end luxury abodes and everything inbetween!

It’s no surprise that hostels in Panglao are one of the most affordable options when it comes to where to stay on the island. However, if you’ve been solo travelling in the Philippines and you’re a bit over the hostel scene – you can find yourself something a tab more private. There are loads of options across both booking.com and Airbnb, plus there are even a few private rooms on Hostelword.

If you want a minimalistic, budget stay you’ll be looking at approx $6-20 USD per night or a mid-range would be more like $20-35 USD per night. Many have air conditioning and even swimming pools! Of course, if you’re after top-tier luxury, the prices can start to creep up.

My top choices of where to stay in Panglao that are worth checking out are:

• Best Hotel in Panglao – Island World Panglao
• Best Hostel in Panglao – Bohol Coco Farm
• Best Airbnb in Panglao – Banyan Villa with Private Pool

Backpacking Panglao Costs

As with any place you travel to, there are options for keeping your budget down or splashing out on extravagant luxury. However, your dollars will go a lot further than they would in the likes of Europe or the US.

You know what was super cheap? Beer! The most popular beer on the island was San Miguel. If you feel brave enough, you can try your hand at Red Horse… but you’ve been warned, it’s potent. A beer will set you back around 50 pesos a bottle ($0.90 USD).

A Daily Budget in Panglao

Here is a breakdown of what you’ll likely spend (in USD) as a traveller in Panglao:

A Few Free Things to Do in Panglao

We Broke Backpackers would do anything to save a couple bucks, right? So, in the spirit of sticking to the budget, here are a few free things to do in Panglao.

Most of Panglao’s popular tourist spots still often charge, even as small as 20 pesos ($0.35 USD). But don’t worry, I’ve scoped out the best free things to do during your stay.

• Explore the Beaches of Panglao – Alona Beach, Dumaluan Beach and Doljo Beach are BEAUTIFUL.
• Check out the Panglao Clock Tower
• Watch the sunset at any of the western coast beaches
• Explore the Panglao Church (St. Augustine Church)
• Check out the Panglao Public Markets
• Take out a snorkel and check out the incredible coral and marine life

Top Tips – Travelling Panglao on a Budget

• Eat the Street Delicacies:  Avoid the overpriced tourist restaurants and go where the locals go! The Filipino food that is sold on the street is often delicious and pretty damn CHEAP.
• Sleep on the Couch:  Get cosy with the friendly locals and crash on their couch. It might be helpful to pack a good travel tent to pitch up instead.
• Haggle:  Haggling is fun and totally normal in the Philippines, so give it a go!
• Camp:  Give camping a go, – hang your  backpacking hammock for the night . You can’t get cheaper than free accommodation, right?
• Cook for yourself: Book a place with a kitchen and save money on going out. Head to the local fruit and veggie shop and whip yourself up a meal. You could even pack a  good-quality backpacking stove if you can’t find a place with a decent kitchen.
• Pack a travel water bottle : Save money (and the planet) every day <3

Why You Should Travel to Panglao with a Water Bottle?

When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to see the full extent of the plastic problem and it’s honestly, really shocking. It makes you realise the importance of what it means to be a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either – so I guess this is also a budget travel hack! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and do your bit.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Best Time to Visit Panglao

If you want to experience the true magic of Panglao, you can join the swarms of travellers in the dry season; particularly in January and February. Or, you can hold off for the wet season… whaaaat? Yes, amigos, that’s right – the magic of Panglao is REAL even in the rainy season.

Let’s break this down by seasons…

• Dry Season (November – April):  This is when the weather is warm and the downpours are scarce. Expect temperatures of around 30 degrees reaching the mid-thirties on the islands. The hottest months (and most humid) are March to May when temperatures will reach up to 36 degrees. This is when I visited, and I can confirm it was hot asss – be sure to tick that air conditioning filter when looking for Airbnbs… you’re gonna need it!
• Wet Season (May – October):  ‘Wet Season’ normally puts people off; however, this is a great time to travel to Panglao. The rains only last around an hour or so before the sun comes back out again. Expect temperatures of around 25 degrees – which is actually a pretty ideal heat for functioning in. Plus, things get cheaper around this time – budget backpacker ‘s rejoic e!
• Typhoon Season (June – August):  I would recommend avoiding this time. The rain becomes much heavier and typhoons are common. Many flights and ferries will be cancelled or face delays which is never ideal.

What to Pack for Panglao

It’s more than likely that Panglao is going to present you with a load of sunshine and some hot ass days. In these situations, it’s great to have swimmers and breathable clothing with you.

However, I’d recommend taking some light cover-up layers. A sarong/ pashmina is perfect for keeping your precious skin from gleaming like a juicy tomato. It’s also handy to have if you plan to visit temples or sacred places that often ask you to cover up.

If you’re heading out in the rainy season, it’s always a good idea to pack a good rain jacket . My favourite is the  Patagonia Torrentshell jacket .

If you’re travelling around the Philippines, this will involve packing, re-packing and a lot of ferries – I’d recommend packing as lightly as possible.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Panglao Travel Guide to Getting There and Around the Island

If you’re travelling with wads of cash, you can choose to fly from Manila or Cebu. This is easily the fastest way to get to Panglao International Airport. You should be prepared to spend at least PHP 3,000 to PHP 4,000 ($52-$70 USD).  

However, for all you backpackers out there, I’d highly recommend the ferry from Cebu. That’s the route I went. It took a couple of hours on the ferry and if the sea is flat, it’s super chill. There were even movies on the ferry!! Dora the Explorer was a great watch and highly relevant!

You can expect to pay PHP 1200 to PHP 1700 for the ferry to Bohol ($21-$30 USD)

Travelling around Panglao

If you plan to stay around only Panglao then tricycles, Tuktuks or renting a motorbike are the best option. It is super easy to get around as it’s such a small island. If you want to visit the main island of Bohol you could choose to rent a car, book a driver or join a tour.

Staying Safe in Panglao

The island is a pretty safe place to travel. Although, as with anywhere you go, it’s important to keep your wits about ya and travel safely .

Don’t drink and drive, ALWAYS wear a helmet, pack a first aid kit and maybe even pick yourself up a backpacker security belt to keep your cash safe. There are loads of steps that you can take to prevent shit from going wrong.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Panglao

And as many preventative actions we take, shit can still happen. Don’t be silly, get yourself some good travel insurance before you head on your adventure.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Working and Volunteering in Pangalo

In general, Panglao isn’t typically a place that ex-pats head to looking for work. That said, I met a TON of expats who had retired on the island and a few digital nomads too! The cost of living in the Philippines is pretty low which makes the tropical lifestyle here even more appealing.

The Digital Nomad Scene in Panglao

To work in the Philippines a work visa is required which must be obtained by an employing company. Despite being popular with digital nomads , there is no digital nomad visa available and most simply enter on long-stay tourist visas.

However, I’m not going to beat around the bush here, the wifi can be pretty shocking and the power cuts are far from ideal. However, if you can manage a few electricity issues, working remotely from Panglao can be an absolute dream.

If you splash some cash on a nicer hotel, they usually have generators so you may not even notice the power cuts.

Volunteer in the Panglao

Volunteering overseas is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the local culture and sprinkle a bit of good in the world while you do it. Not to mention the free accommodation and other perks that often come along with it…

There’s a wide variety of  volunteer projects in the Philippines ranging from teaching English to animal care to agriculture to pretty much anything!

Teaching and cultural exchanges are almost always available to volunteer in to aid community development. Other opportunities include assisting with eco-projects on farms and helping out in hospitality.

There is no special visa to volunteer in the Philippines as long as it’s for less than 90 days, but you’ll have to apply for the appropriate permit to stay long-term.

Worldpackers  is our go-to, they connect travellers with host projects. Check out the Worldpackers site and see if they have any opportunities that tickle your fancy in Panglao before signing up.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

FAQs About Backpacking Panglao

Before you come to Panglao, you’re likely to have a few burning questions. Luckily, I’ve got answers! These are the most common questions I get on travelling in Panglao:

How long should I stay in Panglao?

If you’re heading to Panglao, I’d recommend a minimum of 3 days to be able to explore everything this little island has to offer. If you’re planning to explore the rest of Bohol during your stay, I’d recommend up to 5 days.

What is the best budget place to stay in Panglao?

My favourite hostel on the island is Bohol Coco Farm . The hostel is located on a HUGE, green property and offers a free breakfast buffet every. single. day. If that’s not enough to sign you up, I don’t know what would.

Is it expensive to travel to Panglao?

Overall, travelling in the Philippines is relatively inexpensive compared to the likes of Europe or the US. However, as always you can do it on a budget (staying in hostels, opting for free activities) or you can splash out on luxury.

Final Advice Before Visiting Panglao

Alright, folks. If I haven’t sold you by now, I don’t know what will! Panglao is the ULTIMATE destination for anyone looking for endless beach time or to experience some of the best diving in the Philippines (if not the world!).

Being so close to the main island of Bohol, you’ll be hard-pressed to run out of things to do! Finished exploring the beaches of Panglao? Why not head up to explore those in Anda? Explored all the caves on Panglao? Why not go waterfall chasing in Bohol? There is so much to do!

Whatever you end up doing and wherever you end up staying on Panglao, I hope you love the island as much as we did. It’s a magical place.

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