What is the best travel insurance for backpackers?

What should you look for in backpacker travel insurance? This is a very important question to ask yourself.

We understand that backpackers like to travel a little differently than everyone else. We are backpackers ourselves.

As a backpacker, your low-budget lifestyle probably takes you off the beaten path. Sometimes you like to go places where you can immerse yourself in the culture. Other times you will want to meet other travelers from around the world.

Even if you have little money, being a backpacker doesn't mean you have to put yourself at risk. There are many backpacking travel insurance .

Because let's be honest...

The last thing you want to risk on your trip is your health and safety. Not to mention that traveling without travel insurance can also leave you with thousands of euros in bills and medical expenses.

Remember. A big medical bill can quickly turn an amazing trip into a stressful memory.

That is why it is crucial to always protect yourself with travel insurance. For just a few euros a day, you can arm yourself with the tools you need to make your backpacking trip safe and memorable.

As travelers ourselves, we understand the protection backpackers need when traveling. That's why we've put together this comprehensive list of our favorite backpacking travel insurance companies.

We are here to help you know what to look for in a policy. This way you can decide which company is right for your trip.

SafetyWing : Best Overall Backpacking Insurance

As one of the newest names in the insurance business, SafetyWing is a great option for long-term travel insurance. Whether you're going on an extended vacation or simply traveling indefinitely with no return date, SafetyWing has you covered.

Unlike the other insurance companies on this list, SafetyWing allows you to travel as long as you want. You don't even have to specify the duration of your trip: your insurance is automatically extended every 28 days until you decide to end it.

Additionally, SafetyWing is one of the most affordable travel insurance companies on this list, with policies starting at around €40 for four weeks.

SafetyWing only offers one insurance plan. This plan comes with 250,000 euros of emergency medical coverage and 1,000 euros of dental coverage. In our opinion, this amount is sufficient for most medical emergencies or accidents.

SafetyWing also offers evacuation protection. They not only provide 100,000 euros in emergency medical evacuation, but also cover evacuation due to political unrest.

One of the most significant differences between SafetyWing and other backpacking insurance companies is trip protection. Trip cancellation is not included in SafetyWing's insurance policy. However, they offer 5,000 euros for the trip interruption in case you have to return home.

And unlike other companies...

SafetyWing also offers home country coverage, including coverage in the United States. This way, if you come home for the holidays or summer vacation, you'll still be protected in case you get sick or injured.

SafetyWing is a great option for travelers who only need medical coverage. By waiving trip cancellation coverage, you can continue to protect your health while saving a little extra money.

What is a backpacker insurance?

Let's start with the basics.

Backpacker insurance is travel and medical insurance created for travelers and adventurers. It protects you against a number of travel mishaps, such as flight cancellations, emergency hospital visits, or even lost luggage.

And I bet you agree with me on this. Anything that can protect your lost luggage is worth every penny.

Backpacker insurance is more flexible than other types of travel insurance. Covers a wider range of countries and activities. It is also much cheaper than traditional travel insurance.

Yes, you need backpacker travel insurance.

And look, there are dozens of policies and companies to choose from. But some travel insurance companies are better suited for backpackers than others.

Because the truth is that backpackers have different needs than other travelers. They have different travel requirements and need a travel insurance company that understands their specific lifestyle.

It doesn't matter where you travel. It is essential that you review your backpacking insurance options.

Why do backpackers need travel insurance?

When it comes to planning a once-in-a-lifetime backpacking trip, travel insurance may be the last thing on your mind. Honestly, isn't it more fun to spend time choosing the right backpack or booking the coolest hostel?

Well, your health and safety is also something to take into account. That's why we believe that travel insurance is the most important thing you should bring on your trip. Travel insurance protects you against any accident or unforeseen emergency that you may encounter on your trip.

• A broken leg from a motorcycle accident? Your backpacking insurance will cover your medical bills.
• Has your camera been stolen on the train? Backpacker insurance will reimburse you for the cost of your belongings.
• Do tropical storms cancel your flight to Thailand? You will be refunded and rebooked on the next flight.

It's easy to see how travel insurance can protect you in a variety of unfortunate situations. It can also save you thousands of euros in medical expenses. For this reason alone, backpacking insurance is absolutely worth it.

But travel insurance isn't just for backpackers. No matter where in the world you travel, it's essential to protect your health (and your wallet) with travel insurance.

Let's take a look at some of the best travel insurance companies that are made especially for backpackers.

Battleface : The best insurance for backpackers on adventure trips

Battleface is a new travel insurance company, but it has quickly become one of our favorites for its incredibly comprehensive insurance policies.

The people behind battleface have a lot of experience providing coverage to war and terrorism journalists, NGO workers, adventure travelers and much more. They already know what's important to high-risk travelers and thrill seekers, so they've created products for all types of travelers, whether you're a digital nomad or an extreme sports enthusiast.

If you're the adventurous type, you definitely need travel insurance Battleface has two different plans, including basic travel medical insurance, which covers the usual things like emergency medical assistance and evacuation.

Battleface Adventure Travel Insurance also has medical and emergency evacuation coverage, but also Search and Rescue for trips to out-of-network locations. This plan covers activities such as skiing, snowboarding, diving, mountaineering, white or black water rafting, snowmobiling, cycling, and boating.

All of your travel plans include 24/7 emergency medical and travel assistance services and on-the-ground agents, which is incredibly helpful when you're in a foreign country.

Additionally, you can upgrade your policy to include Crisis Response, which includes coverage for things like terrorist attacks, wrongful detention, kidnappings, and violent crimes.

The maximum amount of medical coverage will depend on your plan. The highest amount of emergency medical coverage you will get is €500,000 for travel medical insurance, while adventure travel insurance covers up to €100,000. This is more than enough.

For all of these reasons, battleface is our top choice for adventure travel insurance.

World Nomads : Best overall travel insurance

World Nomads is, in our opinion, the best backpacking insurance company on the market. It is made for travelers by travelers.

They really understand the needs and lifestyle of backpackers.

World Nomads offers two different insurance plans:

1. The Standard Plan includes 100,000 euros of emergency medical coverage, 300,000 euros for medical evacuation and repatriation, and 1,000 euros for theft or loss of luggage.

2. The Explorer Plan includes €100,000 of emergency medical coverage, up to €500,000 for evacuation and repatriation, and higher coverage limits for trip cancellation, trip interruption, and lost or stolen luggage.

Not only do they offer extensive medical and travel coverage, but they also cover sports and extreme activities. Both World Nomads policies include protection for more than 300 activities, including bungee jumping, scuba diving and rafting.

And the best of all? Your policy can be edited or expanded on the fly, which is crucial for backpackers.

And when it comes to cost? World Nomads is also one of the most affordable backpacking insurance options. For the price, you will receive complete coverage for most activities and emergencies you will encounter on your trip.

Travel Guard : Best backpacker insurance with more policy options

Choose the right travel protection for your needs with Travel Guard. Unlike other one-size-fits-all policies, Travel Guard allows you to choose the right travel and medical coverage for your trip.

Choose from a variety of plans such as annual travel coverage, cruise protection, medical coverage or even business travel. You can also sign up for their Pack N Go plan. This plan is ideal for last-minute trips that do not require trip cancellation coverage.

You can further customize your plan for your specific needs by adding optional upgrades. Add coverage for rental vehicle collision, flight accident, and cancellation for any reason to any of the available travel insurance plans. And if you plan to participate in high-risk activities, Travel Guard also offers optional adventure insurance.

It's also important to note that some plans are only available to residents of certain states. The emergency medical coverage, the benefits available and the cost of the policy will depend entirely on the state in which you live.

Compared to other backpacker policies, Travel Guard prices can be a little higher. However, the biggest advantage of their plans is the ability to build the right insurance policy for your trip.

TravelGuard is a great backpacker insurance company if you want to tailor your coverage to your travel needs.

Seven Corners : Best Medical Insurance for Backpackers

Seven Corners has three different backpacker insurance plans. The cheapest plan's emergency medical coverage is $10,000, while the elite policy comes with $250,000 of protection. Trip cancellation and interruption are also refunded between 100% and 150% (up to a certain amount).

But to really customize your backpacking insurance policy, you can add one of many benefits to your plan. This includes damage to the rental car, protection for cancellation for any reason, and accidental death and dismemberment. Additionally, it can also add protection for ski and golf equipment.

Medicine is important, no matter where in the world you are

However, you can waive trip cancellation coverage and purchase a travel medical policy. These personalized medical plans allow you to choose the maximum limit and deductible. In addition, they cover medical and dental treatments, emergency evacuation and even civil liability.

And here's the crazy part.

If you purchase a travel medical plan at least 20 days before departure, you may be eligible for coverage for pre-existing conditions.

If you plan to take multiple trips in a year, Seven Corners also offers a separate annual travel insurance plan for frequent travelers.

The Wander Frequent Traveler plan offers medical coverage inside and outside the United States for short-term trips throughout the year.

So, if you are looking for a policy with the most medical protection, then Seven Corners could be the right backpacking insurance for you. (For another option that covers pre-existing medical conditions, consider Travelex.)

What to look for in cheap backpacking insurance

There are several key factors to consider when looking for backpacking insurance. Some travel insurance companies offer specific benefits for adventurous backpackers and long-term travelers.

Take the time to find a plan that fits your travel plans.

Flexibility is the key

Like your plans, your backpacking insurance should be flexible.

Let's look at an example.

You decide at the last minute to go skiing in Germany and Austria, two countries that were not originally on your itinerary. Or maybe you spontaneously decide to extend your vacation for a few more months.

In these situations, you will appreciate having insurance that you can adjust on the fly. You can look for backpacking travel insurance that pays in installments or that can be updated and changed mid-trip.

This flexibility is great and allows you to travel at your leisure.

Coverage for extreme sports and activities

Let's face it: backpackers love extreme (and sometimes reckless) activities. That is why you should look for backpacking insurance that provides you protection for any adventure you may encounter on your trip.

From scuba diving in Indonesia to skydiving in Hawaii, you'll want to have coverage for all those fun and exhilarating moments.

However, many traditional travel insurance companies do not offer protection for these events. So if you plan to practice any extreme sports, make sure your backpacking insurance offers activity coverage.

An affordable price

Lastly, good travel insurance for backpackers should be affordable. The costs of flights, shelters and food add up quickly. This can make price an important factor when choosing travel insurance.

Even if you want your trip to be low-cost, you should invest in travel insurance. Fortunately, there are several backpacking insurance companies that offer comprehensive insurance that won't cost you money.

Most backpacker insurance only costs a few euros a day. There's no excuse not to have it on your backpacking trip!

What does backpacking insurance cover?

Now you have an idea of ​​why travel insurance is important. So what should your backpacking insurance plan cover?

Exact coverage will vary from policy to policy. But there are certain advantages you should look for when choosing a good backpacking insurance company.

Trip cancellation

Imagine spending thousands of euros on a backpacking trip and canceling it because you came down with a debilitating flu days before.

It's not fun. This has happened to me.

If you have trip cancellation coverage, you'll get money back for those non-refundable flights and hotel stays.

It is important to note that it cannot be canceled for any reason. Travel insurance only allows you to cancel in serious situations, such as family emergencies or natural disasters.

Trip interruption

Trip interruption covers you in case you have to return home early. It covers things like a family emergency that forces you to change plans.

The list of acceptable reasons for trip cancellation coverage also applies to trip interruption coverage.

Travel delay

If you miss your connection due to bad weather or an airline strike, your travel insurance will kick in.

Some policies cover daily costs for hotels or food. Other policies may pay for air or train expenses to get to your final destination.

Stolen, lost or damaged property

Your backpacking travel insurance may also cover theft, loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings.

Suppose you lose your smartphone or your camera lens breaks during your trip. With travel insurance, you may be reimbursed for some of the associated costs. And with some policies, you might even be covered if an airline loses your suitcase during the flight.

Baggage delay

Backpacker insurance not only covers lost luggage, but can also cover delayed luggage. If the airline loses your suitcase, it will reimburse you for toiletries or daily expenses until your luggage arrives.

Treatments and medical expenses

Emergency medical coverage is one of the most important benefits to have when traveling abroad. You can never predict when you are going to get hurt, especially if you like strong emotions.

Think about it like this.

Say you break your leg hiking in China or get food poisoning. Your China travel insurance will help you pay for the medical care you need abroad.

Without emergency medical protection, you are forced to pay out of pocket for expensive medical bills or hospital stays. And depending on the severity of the illness or injury, those bills could run into thousands and thousands of euros.

As we like to say, traveling without medical protection is essentially like traveling without health insurance. If you don't have protection against emergency medical treatments, you could be putting your life in danger.

medical evacuation

If you have an accident during your trip, you will most likely have to travel by ambulance to the hospital. And if you are in a remote location, such as the mountains or desert, you may need to be airlifted to the nearest center.

In these cases, transportation costs could be around 100,000 euros. And without medical evacuation coverage, you'll have to pay those expenses yourself.

Do you have 100,000 euros lying around?

Some policies also offer non-medical evacuation coverage. This includes protection if your destination is affected by political unrest or natural disasters.

Medical repatriation

The best backpacker insurance also includes medical repatriation. If your injury or illness is too serious, medical repatriation will cover the costs of bringing you home. This way, you can receive medical care in your home country.

What does backpacking insurance NOT cover?

Although backpacker travel insurance covers a wide variety of situations, it has its limitations. Here are some scenarios that probably won't be covered by your travel insurance policy.

Alcohol and drug related accidents

Most backpacker insurance companies do not reimburse for drunken injuries. If the

police or the hospital give you a breathalyzer test, you will probably be responsible for paying the medical bills yourself.

Additionally, you may not be able to claim items that were lost due to carelessness. That means you can't claim your lost phone if you were drinking and partying the night before.

expensive electronics

If you are traveling with expensive photography equipment, you should consider taking out supplemental electronic insurance. Most backpacking insurance companies only reimburse up to a certain amount per item. This means it probably won't cover your expensive laptop or DSLR.

For standalone electronic coverage, we recommend InsureMyEquipment.

Pre-existing conditions and reviews

Pre-existing illnesses are usually excluded in both backpacker insurance and traditional travel policies. The waiting period for medical coverage varies by company. So make sure you read the fine print of your policy.

Medical check-ups and normal doctor visits are also not included in most backpacking insurance. Be sure to see your doctor for a checkup before leaving on your trip.

Lost money

Although most backpacker insurance policies cover the cost of lost luggage or personal property, they usually do not include cash. If you are robbed, you can claim the value of the wallet. But it's unlikely you'll be able to claim the money inside.

For this reason, it is advisable not to carry a lot of money while going out. Leave your money in the hotel safe or use the ATM whenever you need extra money.

How to make a claim on your backpacking insurance

If an unexpected incident occurs during your trip, you will be glad you are familiar with the claims filing process. This way, you can file a claim for reimbursement for any expenses or costs you have incurred.

The exact process for filing a claim varies between backpacking insurance companies. You should check the fine print of your policy to see the precise steps you need to take.

Call the Backpacker Insurance Provider Hotline

A reliable travel insurance company will have a 24-hour helpline that you can contact anywhere in the world. The customer service agent can help you:

 Submit your claim.

 Find the nearest network doctor.

 Collaborate with the police or local authorities (if necessary).

Only remember:

If you have been in an accident or serious emergency, call the police or seek medical attention as soon as possible. You can always contact your insurer later.

Document the incident or accident

When you file your backpacker insurance claim, you will need to provide appropriate documentation as proof of reimbursement.

Your insurance company will ask you for copies of medical bills and the accident report for medical claims. And if someone has stolen your smartphone, you will need the police report filed and the purchase receipt.

Remember that it is your responsibility to collect as much information as possible. The more information you submit, the more likely the insurance company will approve your claim.

File and submit your claim

For backpackers, it is crucial to have a policy that allows you to make your claim from anywhere in the world. That's why the best backpacker insurance company will allow you to file your claim online. Some companies will even allow you to file a claim from your mobile phone.

You will have to fill in your details and any relevant information about the incident. Next, you must attach the documentation and invoices to the claim. After you submit the information, your backpacking travel insurance company will review your claim to see if you are entitled to a refund.

Processing time can be from a few days to a few weeks. If the company requires more documentation, they will contact you for more information.

When filing a claim, the most important thing is to take into account the company's deadlines. In many cases, you only have a certain number of days to file a claim. If you submit your claim after the deadline, you will not be able to receive a refund.

What you can't claim with backpacker insurance

Just because you have backpacker travel insurance doesn't mean you can file a reimbursement claim for every situation. Naturally, there are some circumstances that you cannot claim from your insurance provider.

Incidents outside your coverage dates

It goes without saying, but your backpacking insurance only covers you for a certain amount of time.

For the full policy to take effect, some companies require that you purchase their plan before your trip begins. This means that you will only be able to claim for incidents or accidents that occur after you have full coverage.

Likewise, you should renew your backpacker insurance if you extend your trip beyond the initial coverage dates. If you do not extend your insurance, you will not be able to make a claim after the policy ends.

Claims filed outside the policy term

If something happens to you on your trip, you will have to file a claim with your backpacking insurance company within a certain period of time. If you wait too long to file your claim, you may not be reimbursed.

Some companies require a claim to be filed immediately, while others allow a claim to be filed several weeks or months after the incident. Make sure you understand your company's policy before purchasing backpacking insurance.

Cancellation or interruption of the trip for any reason

Under certain circumstances, you may need to leave early or cancel your trip entirely. However, it is important to note that backpacker insurance only covers you in certain situations, such as illness, injury, or family emergencies.

You probably won't get a refund if you change your mind or find a better price elsewhere. On the other hand, some backpacker insurance providers offer “cancel for any reason” coverage. If you add this feature, you will be able to present

claims for reasons other than those indicated by your backpacker insurance provider.

Accidents in high-risk countries

Although most places are safe to visit, there are some countries that the American government has deemed too dangerous for travelers. So if you plan to travel to a high-risk country, you may not be able to file a claim if something happens to you during your trip.

On the other hand, some backpacker insurance companies offer partial coverage. For this reason, you should read the fine print to see if your insurance policy covers your destination.

Situations without adequate documentation

To be reimbursed for medical bills or lost items, you will need to provide proof to your insurance company. Without this documentation, you may not be reimbursed.

Depending on what you are claiming, you will need itemized receipts, hospital bills, or even police reports. The more information you have, the more likely your insurer will approve your claim.

Final thoughts

Besides your passport, backpacking travel insurance is one of the most important things you should bring on your trip. It's there to protect you against unexpected incidents, from bicycle accidents and chopped food to luggage theft and lost smartphones.

And, as you already know, you don't have to spend an arm and a leg to protect, well, your arms and legs. There are many companies and policies that offer decent coverage for just a few euros a day.

With affordable and comprehensive coverage, World Nomads is our preferred backpacking insurance provider. However, there may be other companies that are better suited to your trip.

Check different policies, compare companies and look for good deals. But ultimately, make sure you purchase travel insurance somewhere . Because if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel.

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▷ Conclusion: Go out, travel and live your life to the fullest.

This year, treat yourself to a break from the ordinary and seek an adventure abroad. You'll come back refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to bore all your friends with travel stories.

Any time of year is a good time to travel. Discover the best places to travel by month:

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