Picking a nomad insurance plan may not be the most fun thing you’ll do when prepping for a trip with your family; but it’s among the most important! While you may be tempted to skip buying insurance on a short vacation, when you travel for a longer period of time it becomes extremely important that you pick the right plan for your family.
With so many options available, it may be hard to choose the best plan for your family. This guide is here to help!
Travel insurance vs nomad insurance
Traditional travel insurance typically only covers things like emergencies and lost baggage or trip cancelation. This insurance only applies to a trip you are on, and usually, you have to know the set dates of your trip before you can apply. It also typically doesn’t cover healthcare needs.
That’s why you may need to look at nomad insurance — even if you don’t consider yourself a full-time “nomad”, these plans can benefit families that like to slow travel.
Nomad insurance typically covers both travel insurance and health insurance while you are abroad. And usually, you do not need to have a return ticket home, which makes this a great option for travelers looking for flexibility.
Questions to ask when choosing nomad insurance
Picking a nomad insurance plan isn’t all that different from choosing your regular healthcare plan. But you will want to pay particular attention to any location or time limits that may apply.
- Are you covered when you visit your home country? Some plans will stop coverage if you visit home
- What activities are covered? Some plans don’t cover activities considered “high risk” activities, which can include things like riding scooters.
- What is the maximum coverage limit?
- What is the deductible and when does it reset?
- Where are you covered? Is it just in certain hospitals or clinics? Can you choose a private provider? What countries does it allow you to visit?
- What’s the reimbursement process like? Be sure to read reviews on this — some plans can have a lengthy and difficult process
Top four most popular nomad insurance plans for families
Always check the provider’s website for the most up-to-date information.
| Company | Best for | Premium | Deductible | Max | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety Wing | budget and straightforward prices | starts at $45/4 weeks | $250 | $250,000 | Two kids under 9 years old are free when you select the family package. Also, only their “Remote Health” plan covers pre-existing conditions and time in your home country. |
| World Nomads | high risk activities | Starts at $120/4 weeks | _ | _. | There is a family travel package available. |
| Insured Nomads | older travelers | Depends on deductible | 0 to $5000 | _. | Adventure sports not included; travel and health insurance sold separately |
| Atlas Travel | pre-existing conditions and customizable plans | Depends on deductible (ie: $42 with a $250 deductible) | Customizable from 0 to $5K (average: $250) | Customizable (average: $250,000) | Max limit can be increased to $2mil |
Time-saving tips for filing a claim
Filing a claim can be a real time suck — but here’s a few tips to help make the process as smooth as can be!
- Take pictures of all receipts and medical documents: These papers are easily lost! Be sure to have a backup.
- Have multiple copies of your insurance card on different devices: In G-drive, your wallet, on your phone, etc just in case you need a backup.
- Get the name of the insurance agent you talk to: If you inquire with the insurance company about anything — especially whether or not an activity is covered — be sure to get the full name of the person you talked to just in case issues arise later.
- Take a photo of what’s in your suitcase: In case you have to file a travel claim later
- Have an emergency contact information easily accessible: This could be helpful for others in case you’re in an accident