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Surfing Travel Insurance – Best Travel Insurance for a Surf Trip

Last updated on October 2nd, 2023 at 08:17 pm

If you are looking for the best travel insurance for your surf trip, you came to the right place. In this post we listed our top choices for surfing travel insurance that will get you covered just in case things won’t go as planned.

* Honest disclaimer- Reef Break is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

If you prefer the short version, here it is:

World Nomads is our most recommended travel insurance for surfers- Click here to get a quote .

Now when we cleared that out of the way, let’s dive into the long version to understand what is crucial to know when buying a travel insurance for a surf trip:

Surfing is more than just a sport, it’s a way of life. The rush of riding a wave, the feel of the ocean beneath the board, and the connection with nature are moments most surfers live for. For many of us, the thrill is irresistible, but with that thrill comes unpredictability.

The ocean, majestic and powerful, doesn’t always play nice. Unexpected wipeouts, rogue waves, or even just an unfortunate twist of an ankle can change a dream surf vacation into a logistical nightmare. Well, that’s where surf travel insurance steps in. The benefits are numerous, from medical coverage for injuries to compensation for damaged equipment. Surf travel insurance policies protect you from the shocking mishaps that can occur while you’re out in the water.

Table of Contents

Why do you need travel insurance for surfing?

When you’re riding the waves, the last thing you want to worry about is the possibility of an emergency medical situation or needing a medical evacuation. With travel insurance, you can be prepared for the unexpected. Your insurer can provide emergency assistance and coverage for any medical expenses that may arise during your surf trip. So, whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting out, you can have just the peace of mind you need, knowing that you’re covered in case anything goes wrong.

What should You look out for when buying surf travel insurance?

If you’re gearing up for that epic surf trip, you’ve got your surfboard bag , your wax , and your shorts, but have you ticked off the right insurance boxes? Better keep in mind that not all travel insurance policies are created equal, especially for the wave riders among us.

Medical Coverage: You’re tackling the waves, not just lounging on the beach. Make sure the policy covers surf-related injuries. And if heaven forbid, you find yourself in a remote surf spot needing urgent medical attention, you’ll want evacuation or repatriation coverage included.

Equipment Coverage: Those dings and damages from transit or even a gnarly reef break can burn a hole in your pocket. A good travel insurance plan will have your back, covering board damages and other gear mishaps.

Trip Cancellation: The sea is as unpredictable as life. You want coverage that safeguards your trip investment against unforeseen hiccups like sudden storms or injuries.

Baggage Protection: With all the gear and boards, airports can be a nightmare. It’s important to know your insurance for surf trip covers stolen or delayed baggage when you’re on the go.

Surfboard Insurance Cover: Your pre-existing household insurance may or may not cover this, so you might want to play it safe. Consider adding some insurance for your boards, just in case they decide to take a break during your flights or even while you’re shredding the waves. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Pro Tips for Choosing the Best Travel Insurance for Surfers

By following the below written great tips, you can effectively save both time and money, allowing you to allocate your resources more efficiently.

Assess Your Surfing Level: Not all surfers are created equal. If you’re a beginner, your risks might differ from those of a seasoned pro tackling towering waves. Understand where you fit in and seek a policy tailored to your specific needs.

Destination Matters: Whether you are planning to catch waves in remote Huntington Beach, California, or Sunset Beach, Hawaii , or perhaps you’re heading to the more crowded beaches of Australia , each destination has its unique challenges. Some regions may have higher medical costs, while others might be prone to natural disasters. Your insurance should address the peculiarities of your chosen surf spot.

Duration of Your Trip: A weekend getaway will have different insurance needs compared to a month-long surf expedition. Ensure your insurance coverage duration aligns with your next surf trip plans. Some policies might offer flexible extensions, which can be handy if you decide to chase waves for a bit longer.

Budget But Don’t Skimp: While it’s essential to stick to a budget, cutting corners on insurance can be a costly mistake. A cheaper policy might seem attractive, but it’s key to balance the cost with the coverage offered. Sometimes, paying a tad more upfront can save considerable headaches and expenses later on.

Double-check the policy: Always read the fine print before signing on the dotted line. Know what you’re covered for and be sure that it meets your needs, particularly if you’re doing any extreme activities like tow-in surfing or big wave riding.

Safety Inspections

Be mindful and cautious of rip currents..

Rip currents (or rips) are sneaky water currents that love to escape to the sea. They cunningly disguise themselves as dark or murky lines, slowly inching away from the beach. Don’t fall for their tricks! Be smarter than a rip and steer clear of their clutches. But if you do get caught, keep your cool and remember not to tango with it. Instead, swim parallel to the shore and then use the waves to paddle back to shore.

Always wear a leash

A leash can be compared to a lanyard that secures both you and your surfboard, reducing the risk of losing your board. At certain beaches, it is crucial to keep your surfboard leashed at times to prevent injuries. These measures are taken to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Follow the surfing rules (and general rules) of the beach

Every beach has its own set of rules to keep you safe and sound during your visit. Make sure you give them a read and show them the respect they deserve.

A-List Of 5 Best Surf Travel Insurance Companies

1. world nomads surf travel insurance – catch waves, not worries.

Overview & Key Features

World Nomads is a well-known travel insurance company catering specifically to the adventurous at heart. For surfers seeking the thrill of the waves across the globe, it offers specialized surf travel insurance, ensuring you’re protected on and off the board. Their coverage encompasses emergency medical evacuation, an essential for remote surf spots, and acknowledges the unique needs of extreme sports enthusiasts.

Beyond that, the premium is reflective of the comprehensive nature of the coverage, ensuring things like unexpected medical bills don’t wipe out your savings. Moreover, with options for both single trips and multiple journeys, it provides flexibility in choosing travel insurance coverage suitable for one’s travel frequency.

Round-the-clock emergency medical care.

Comprehensive coverage, including emergency medical evacuation.

Personal liability & baggage protection.

Emergency medical transportation.

Protect your gear.

For more details about World Nomads travel insurance please click here .

2. Seven Corners Travel Insurance – Adventure Awaits, With Assurance!

Seven Corners isn’t just another travel insurance provider company, it’s a beacon of security for globe-trotters. Whether you’re chasing the big wave or trekking uncharted terrains, Seven Corners ensures you’re never alone. Their standout features include comprehensive emergency medical care and swift emergency evacuation procedures, providing relief when travelers need it the most. There’s a policy for every traveler, from short vacays to extended stays. Peace of mind is something that everyone deserves, whether it’s through international travel insurance or trip protection for domestic journeys within the United States. Rest assured, they’ve got you covered, ensuring your well-being and security every step of the way.

Designed for the adventurer, be it for big-wave chasers or mountain trekkers.

Top-tier emergency medical care ensures you’re treated promptly and adequately.

Efficient emergency evacuation, so you’re not stranded during dire times.

Cancellation and Interruption of Trips.

Misplaced, pilfered, impaired, or tardy luggage.

Insurance for Travel Accidents.

For more details about Seven Corners please click here .

3. Surf Travel Insurance – Ride Waves with Peace of Mind!

For those who hear the ocean’s call, surf travel insurance is a game-changer. Tailored for wave lovers, this coverage ensures that, amidst the thrill of surfing, potential mishaps don’t dampen the spirit. Core features often include coverage for board damages, medical emergencies on foreign shores, and sometimes even trip cancellations due to unforeseen surf conditions. As with any other insurance policy, opting for one that fits the frequency of your travels is essential. With their surfer-friendly website and unparalleled expertise, they are the ideal choice for any passionate surfer seeking to travel and ride the waves with peace of mind.

Tailored specifically for surf enthusiasts, ensuring relevant coverage.

Medical protection in case the waves don’t play nice.

Coverage for board damages or loss during transit.

Surfboard cover.

snowboard cover.

For more details about Surf Travel Insurance please click here .

4. Insured Nomads – Unleash Your Inner Explorer, Worry-Free!

For thrill-seeking enthusiasts of adventure sports, both locally and internationally, it is vital to be prepared for medical emergencies and evacuation in remote areas. To ensure your safety while engaging in your beloved sporting activities, Insured Nomads offer comprehensive coverage for medical and evacuation requirements, as well as protection for your valuable sports equipment. This company offers policies that go beyond just trip interruptions, focusing on the health, safety, and overall well-being of travelers. Notably, their coverage extends to medical emergencies, personal accidents, baggage mishaps, and more.  Whether you’re on a quick weekend getaway or a months-long expedition, they’ve got a plan for you. Booking isn’t difficult either, the entire process can be completed online and within minutes.

Covid-19 cover.

A User-friendly interface makes policy management a breeze.

Customer service that truly understands a traveler’s mindset.

Travel medical protection for remote locations.

Trip cancellation coverage.

For more details about Insured Nomads please click here .

5. Travelex Insurance Services – Travel Far and Wide with Confidence!

When it comes to going on a surf, Travelex Insurance Services is like the reliable compass every traveler needs. With decades in the business, Travelex offers robust travel insurance solutions that cover a wide range of scenarios: from trip cancellations and delays to unforeseen medical emergencies. Key features often encompass baggage protection, 24/7 travel assistance, and coverage for pre-existing conditions. While the cost might lean towards the higher side compared to newer entrants, the brand’s reliability and comprehensive coverage make it worth the investment. To wrap it up, Travelex Insurance Services is akin to a seasoned travel guide, experienced, dependable, and always ready to assist when the path gets tricky. Safe travel!

Comprehensive coverage with a holistic approach to travel uncertainty.

A reputation built over the years lends credibility and trust.

Flexible policies are suitable for various travel types and durations.

Two flight insurance plans are available.

Coverage can be customized.

For more details about Travelex Insurance please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is surf travel insurance.

Answer: Surf travel insurance is tailored coverage specifically designed for wave lovers to ensure that their surfing adventures are not dampened by potential mishaps. It often includes protection for board damages, medical emergencies on foreign shores, and sometimes even trip cancellations due to unforeseen surf conditions.

What does surf travel insurance cover?

Surf travel insurance typically covers medical protection, emergency evacuation, cancellation, and interruption of trips, misplaced/pilfered/impaired or tardy luggage, and travel accidents. However, it is important to note that coverage may vary from policy to policy, so be sure to read the fine print before committing.

Are there any activities not covered by surf travel insurance?

Yes, most policies exclude coverage for certain hazardous activities such as sky-diving and off-piste skiing. Additionally, some insurance companies will also not cover trips to areas considered unsafe due to political instability or natural disasters. It is important to check the exclusions of each policy before making a decision.

Does surf travel insurance cover rental equipment?

Well, most policies include coverage for rental equipment in case of loss or theft. However, it is always advisable to double-check with your insurer prior to purchasing a policy.

Conclusion – The Bottom Line!

In conclusion, selecting the best surf travel insurance depends on various factors including your traveling frequency, budget, and specific needs. While there is no definitive right answer, the key to success lies in researching your options and settling for a policy that works best for you.

Ultimately, the aim should be to have peace of mind while pursuing your passion, and with the help of good insurance companies, travelers can enjoy their adventures without worrying about the unexpected. Best of luck and stay safe out there!

Hi, my name is Matt. I am a surfer, a diver, a traveler, and a true ocean lover. After surfing in so many countries, I founded Reef Break to share my passion with other surfers and help them plan their surf trips better. If you have any questions or ideas to share, I would love to hear them, so please feel free to contact me at [email protected].

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Surfing Travel Insurance | Protecting Your Trip & Gear

The list of surf trip costs is endless, from flight tickets to accommodation, transport, food, travel gear, and a new board or two if we’re lucky, and that’s not to mention any coaching and extra activities. But one thing often overlooked, particularly on a budget surf trip, is surf travel insurance— an annoying additional cost but one that is just as essential as your plane ticket. 

We’re all guilty of it, right? “Ahhh, it’ll be fine; I won’t need insurance; that would be a waste if nothing goes wrong.” On surf trips, everything is, and hopefully will be, fine until it isn’t. Surf trips, by nature, are unpredictable, and there are countless opportunities for things to go awry. 

But when things go to sh*t, they go to sh*t very quickly, and paradisical dreams can turn into life-threatening nightmares in seconds. If you’ve got no cover to back yourself up in emergencies, then you not only put yourself in a dangerous (and potentially life-threatening) situation but under a mountain of debt you’ll be paying back for years to come. 

However, with a small pre-trip payment, you can prevent such situations and give yourself the peace of mind you won’t finish the trip with a $10,000 medical bill, injured or stranded. Surf travel insurance can also cover you for other surf trip mishaps, such as delayed flights and lost or stolen baggage. In this article, we dive into everything you need to know about surf travel insurance, from what to look for, the essential criteria, why you need it, and the best companies to buy policies from. We have a heap to get through, so let’s dive in. 

Table of Contents

Why Do You Need Surf Travel Insurance? 

If you’ve been on a surf trip, you won’t need me to tell you how many things can and inevitably will go wrong. From severe injuries and emergency evacuations to stolen boards and delayed flights, surf travel insurance helps you in countless ways: 

• Serious Injury
• Minor surf accidents 
• Traffic collisions (Bali mopeds) 
• Delayed flights 
• Broken surf equipment 
• Lost or stolen baggage 
• Natural disaster 

But while the list of potential surf travel mishaps is long, not all surf travel insurance companies cover these things. Instead, you’ll have to look at specific policies to see what is and isn’t covered on your respective policy. Always check your policy wording carefully, and no matter what insurance you get, here are the essential criteria for any surf travel insurance policy. 

Essential Surf Travel Insurance Criteria 

Medical expenses .

This is the big one. Medical expense coverage is crucial for any surf trip . Whether going on a mellow longboarding vacation to Sri Lanka or chasing slabs deep in the Australian desert, medical expenses cover your medical bill should you get injured. 

For example, if you’ve fallen off and hit the reef at Ulutwau , gotten cut up, and potentially broken a bone, you need to go to the hospital to get checked out and have a cast put on. That doesn’t come free for foreigners in Indonesia. With medical expenses covered by your policy, you can get the care you need without worrying about paying for it immediately. 

To hammer the importance of this home, I was once on a surf trip to Lakey Peak, Sumabwa, a relatively remote Indonesian surf paradise. One day we were eating lunch, and a surfer was being paddled in from the surf, having badly broken his leg and needing urgent medical attention and pain relief. His friends informed us, and everyone else at the camp, he was an American with no travel insurance! 

They did a whip round to get as much money together as possible, which I’m sure didn’t completely cover the cost of his hospital transfer and treatment. This is exactly the situation you want to avoid, and for the sake of a few extra dollars, it’s stupid not to get insurance. 

Medical Evacuation 

For serious injuries and life-threatening situations, medical evacuation insurance is needed. Hopefully, you’ll never need this, but when you do, you’ll be super thankful you had it! Let’s say you’re on a surf trip to the Mentawaiis (if you’ve been there, you’ll know how frickin remote it is). You get a head or spinal injury from hitting the shallow reef and need urgent care. 

The closest hospital is Padang–usually a 4-hour boat trip, but you need a helicopter to airlift you to the hospital in Padang. Padang isn’t the biggest city, and if the hospital there isn’t equipped to deal with your injury, you’ll need to be transferred to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur! Yep, that’s a lot of flying, and costs soon rack up. Medical evacuation covers these costs essential. 

Personal Liability 

Another vital aspect of your surf travel insurance coverage is personal liability. In short, this means an injury you cause to someone else. It doesn’t matter how good a surfer you are in crowded line-ups; it only takes a misread of an oncoming section to run over someone. Personal liability coverage helps cover their medical expenses if you injure or seriously hurt them. This is essential for helping them get the care they need (regardless of their insurance) and gives you the peace of mind of not having to pay for their medical expenses.  

What Does Surf Insurance Typically Cover? 

What’s covered in your insurance policy will depend on who you purchase cover with, and not all policies will cover the same thing. For example, you’ll want to cover bases such as medical expenses, evacuation, and personal liability, but often things such as baggage delays, damage to equipment, trip cancellations, etc., are things you buy as extras on top of your policy. Well worth considering.

Types of Surf Travel Insurance 

For surf travel insurance, there isn’t a specific company that operates as a sole surf travel insurance provider. Therefore, you must look for extreme sport and adventure travel companies that offer surfing insurance. These companies provide travel insurance for backpackers traveling long term (6 months +), extreme sports such as snowboarding, watersports, bungee jumping, and skydiving. Additionally, many of these companies have dedicated website pages for surf travel insurance. 

Best Companies for Surf Travel Insurance 

I’ve taken countless surf travel insurance policies out in my time but generally return to the same two. These top two companies are the best for dealing with surf travel, whether it’s offering a surf-specific policy, making a claim, or getting insurance that can be extended if you want to extend a surf trip. Let’s take a closer look at my top two. 

World Nomads

World Nomads is a favorite for backpackers and surf trippers, offering insurance policies that cover a wide range of extreme sports and daring backpacker activities. If you’re heading on a gap year and throwing surfing in there or want to cover for your next surf trip, World Nomads will have a policy for you. But, by far, my favorite aspect of World Nomads insurance is the ability to extend your policy while you’re away. I often go on extended 6-month + surf ventures, and if I want to stay longer, I can simply contact World Nomads and extend my policy. Pretty cool, right? 

GIG Insurance 

GIG Insurance caters to extreme sports and adventure travel, from bungee jumping to snowboarding, Scuba diving, skydiving, and surfing. You’ll need to take out coverage and then add surfing as an activity to your policy. My favorite aspect of GIG insurance is that you can talk to a representative over the phone who can tailor a policy according to your travel plans!  

Making a Claim: Does it Pay & Is it Worth it? 

Yes and no. This will depend on your exact policy. Generally, the more you pay and the more extensive your coverage, the more likely the company will pay out. For instance, if you’ve got a policy including extras such as trip cancellation or damage to equipment, you can make a claim and receive money to cover this. However, it’s always important to read your policy wording carefully. If you have a basic plan with no extras, you’ll unlikely be covered for anything other than the essentials (medical evacuation, etc.) 

It’s also worth considering that many of these policies come with premiums, meaning if you claim, they will only pay a maximum (not the total amount of your broken surfboard). You’ll have to pay a deductible from that amount. So, always weigh up whether a claim is worth it. And this can also affect what you pay for your following policy. Just think of your insurance as covering emergencies, and if you never have to use it, great! And if you do, you’re covered and can focus on recovery. 

Final Words  

It’s no doubt that surf travel insurance is essential. You’d be silly to go on a surf trip without it. I’ve seen it too many times, meeting surf travelers in remote Indonesian islands thinking having no insurance makes them a gnarlier budget surf traveler, which is all good until you’re helping the same person with a broken leg and a $10,000 medical bill. So, at the bare minimum, get yourself some insurance that covers the following: 

• Medical expenses 
• Medical evacuation
• Personal liability 

Also, consider adding extras that give you peace of mind, such as baggage delay, trip cancellation, baggage damage, etc. Hopefully, you’ll never need to make a claim on any of your surf trips but get insured anyway, have peace of mind, and enjoy your trip! 

Dan Harmon is a content writer and full-time surf travel enthusiast. He travels the world full-time while creating surf content, traveling to the world’s best surf destinations , and hunting out some lesser-known corners. You can follow more of Dan’s travels over on his YouTube Channel , website , and Instagram.

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Travel Insurance for Surfers: My Complete Guide

Last Updated on August 19, 2023 by Matt Hapgood

If you have ever been in trouble in any sort of way when you’re away from home and you used your insurance to get out of a scrape, you will know how important a great travel insurance policy is.

In this post, I look at travel insurance for surfers – and take a look at everything you need to know.

Can I insure my board?

Will I get air-lifted home?

Can I get my money back if there are no waves?

Just kidding on the last one, although I seem to remember the tourist board of Portugal offering a money back guearantee if you went for a surf trip and there were no waves – Or maybe I dreamt that one…

Let’s dive in!

Some of the links on this site are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we may receive a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. 

Insured Nomads

Insured Nomads covers all bases with your insurance requirements.

If you go ahead and speak to them, they really understand what we need as surfers so they come in as my top pick.

Click the button to get a personalised quote now.

TL;DR (too long didn’t read)

Even with the best-laid plans, sometimes shit hits the fan, and you miss a flight, get sick or worse.

Travel insurance specifically for surfers is a thing – and some of the guys and gals that work at these places surf too, beleive it or not.

This blog post focuses on the best insurance companies specifically for surfers and surf trips .

Why Do I Need Surf Trip Insurance?

OK, let’s start at the beginning. Do I even NEED surf trip insurance?

In a word, YES

And depending on the level of insurance you opt for, will determine the amount of perks you can take advantage of when it comes to insurance and when you make a claim.

Here are a few scenarios that good travel insurance will cover

• Missed flight or trip calculation – These scenarios can be totally out of your hands. Tailback on the way to the airport or someone in your group becoming sick before the trip even begins. It happens, and if you have a good insurance policy you’re covered.
• Baggage – bags can get lost or even stolen. If you gear is covered by insurance it’s less of a worry from the get go.
• Surfboard protection – yes you can get your boards insured too – protection from theft or damage is an option with many of these policies, which is great to know.

Having a good insurance policy will not only get you out of a bind if you get into trouble, but it will give you peace of mind because you know you’re covered.

Want to jump straight to my top picks?

What are the different types of travel insurance.

There are a few differetnt things you can insure when it comes to surf travel. I’ve listed a few below.

Health or Accident Insurance

Surfing, with its powerful waves and potential for falls, makes injury a tangible concern. While we all wish to ride the waves without incident, a solid health or accident policy ensures that if things do go awry, medical bills won’t compound the stress. Moreover, the specific nature of surfing injuries might demand specialist treatment, which certain policies can cover.

Equipment Insurance

Of course, we love our surfboards nearly as much as *cough* our children/husband/wife/dog. And surfboards, wetsuits, and other gear as we all know can be pricey. Insuring them means that dings, theft, or other damage doesn’t hit your wallet hard.

Surf insurance premium variations are influenced by the make and model of your gear and even where you surf – check the small print though because if you need to make a claim you don’t wanna have to fork out hundreds of dollars before you even start the process!

Travel insurance for Surf Trips

Travel and surfing go hand and hand – I think it is one of the joys of being a surfer and heading off to some unknown place and scoring epic waves.

From Indo, South and Central America to the famous waves in Hawaii – they are all on the my list. But international escapades bring their own set of risks – lost equipment, health emergencies in foreign lands, or even cancelled planes, trains or buses.

A robust travel insurance policy tailored for surfers ensures these uncertainties don’t sink your plans before you even get started.

Third-Party Liability Insurance

As surfing’s popularity grows, so do crowded line-ups. Even the most careful surfer can accidentally clip another with their board or body. Third-party liability insurance offers a buffer against potential lawsuits or claims, letting you focus on the waves rather than legal woes – and it’s normally pretty cheap too, so don’t think you have to splash out a tonne on this one to be covered.

Life Insurance

Not to get too heavy on you here, but we’re all gonna pop off one day. The ocean’s vastness reminds me of life’s fragility. While the thought is a little grim, life insurance ensures that in the event of an unthinkable tragedy, your dependents or loved ones aren’t left struggling financially.

How to Choose Surf Travel Insurance

Picking the right surf travel insurance requires a keen eye and a little thought.

A policy might seem great until you uncover its pitfalls. It’s important to understand the scope – does it only cover the local area or international trips too?

Scrutinize the specifics for anything that might exclude surfing-related incidents.

Equally important are the costs involved, both upfront and in terms of deductibles, and the ease or difficulty of the claims process. Recommendations from fellow surfers and user reviews can also be invaluable.

And of course, how good your insurance policy is, only comes into play when you need to use it!

My Tips for Reducing Risks While Surfing

Safety is paramount in a sport as dynamic as surfing.

Continuous learning, even for seasoned surfers, can refine your techniques and responses to tricky situations.

As surfers, we are always learning – how conditions change, and how the currents and tides move too. Your equipment, our trusted companion, must be regularly checked for wear and tear. And you may feel a bit kooky doing this, but when in doubt, ask a local surfer or lifeguard.

And a golden rule is to never surf alone – especially in unfamiliar waters.

My Tip: Go and buy a bar of wax at a local surf shop and ask them when and where the waves are going to be good – You’ll be surprised at how much knowledge there is to gain from this simple $4 investment.

Where Can I Find The Best Surf Trip Travel Insurance?

My top pick for surf travel insurance is Insured Nomads – some of the team actually surf, so they get it.

Reach out to them here.

What Should a Good Travel Insurance Policy Cover

Medical emergencies.

This includes hospital stays, treatments, surgeries, and, in severe cases, medical evacuation back to your home country.

Trip Cancellations and Interruptions

Refunds or compensation if you have to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen events like illness or a family emergency.

Baggage and Personal Belongings

Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage and personal items.

Activity & Sports Coverage

Especially important for surfers, this ensures that injuries or accidents while surfing are covered.

Travel Delays

Compensation for additional accommodation and other expenses due to delayed or canceled flights.

Personal Liability

Protection if you cause injury to another person or damage to their property.

24/7 Assistance

Access to a helpline for immediate assistance, especially during emergencies.

Will My Surfboard Be Insured?

Many travel insurance policies offer coverage for sports equipment including surfboards.

It’s essential to read the fine print!

While some policies might cover the surfboard when it’s in transit (e.g., during flights), others might also cover it while in use.

Always check for coverage limits, as there might be a cap on the claim amount, an excess you need to pay before the insurance pays you, and also for specific conditions, like if the damage was due to negligence.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Usually Cost?

The cost of travel insurance varies based on several factors:

Trip Length

Longer trips typically have higher premiums.

Destination

Some countries, especially those with high healthcare costs, might have higher insurance rates.

Coverage Type & Amount

Comprehensive plans with higher limits and lower deductibles will be more expensive.

Age of the Traveler

Older travelers might face higher premiums.

Activities Covered

Adding specific sports or activities, like surfing, might increase the cost, but be honest otherwise it might all count for nothing if you need to make a claim.

On average, travel insurance typically costs between 4% to 10% of your total trip cost. However, this is a general estimate and can vary massively based on the above factors.

Is Travel Insurance Still Worth It?

Absolutely. While no one expects to face a crisis during their travels, unforeseen events can happen.

From minor inconveniences, like lost baggage, to major emergencies, like a medical situation, the financial and logistical implications can be significant.

Surf travel insurance provides peace of mind, ensuring that these unexpected costs don’t ruin your trip or cause financial hardship in the future.

Does World Nomads Cover Surfing?

Yes, World Nomads does offer coverage for a range of adventure activities, including surfing.

They are popular among travelers for this reason. However, specific terms and conditions, as well as exclusions, might apply.

If you’re considering World Nomads or any other insurer, always review the policy details and confirm directly with the provider to ensure that surfing and related activities are covered as per your needs.

Surf Travel Insurance – My Top Companies

Insured Nomads is a travel insurance provider tailored to the unique needs of digital nomads, long-term travellers, and ex pats.

They offer products ranging from travel medical insurance to comprehensive travel coverage, emphasizing flexibility and coverage suitable for an on-the-move lifestyle.

Safety Wing

SafetyWing is another travel insurance company designed specifically for digital nomads and long-term travelers, offering medical and comprehensive coverage options.

With a subscription-based model, they provide flexibility to cater to the unpredictable schedules and needs of nomads worldwide.

Seven Corners

Seven Corners is an established travel insurance company offering a range of products, from trip protection to medical coverage for travelers and expatriates.

With a strong emphasis on customization you will be able to add surf specific requirements to your policy – they also cater to both short-term travelers and those living abroad for extended periods.

G1G Insurance

G1G Insurance is a platform that connects travelers with a variety of travel insurance options tailored to their needs.

With an emphasis on transparency and customer service, G1G helps users compare and purchase policies, ensuring they find the right coverage for their travels.

World Nomads

World Nomads is a widely recognized travel insurance provider known for its flexible and comprehensive coverage options tailored to adventurous travelers.

They cover a broad range of activities including surfing, which makes them a favorite choice for backpackers, explorers, and other adventurous types!

Surf Travel Insurance

Surf Travel Insurance (STI) is a specialized insurance provider catering specifically to surfers and their unique travel needs.

They focus on offering coverage for surfing-related incidents, equipment damage or loss, and other travel-related eventualities, ensuring surf enthusiasts have peace of mind while chasing waves around the globe.

Surfing, for me, is not just a pastime but a passion and a way of life.

As with all passions, it’s essential to approach them with both enthusiasm and good judgement. A well-chosen surf travel insurance policy makes sure that unforeseen events don’t put a downer on the joy of the sport, letting you embrace each surf trip and each wave with confidence.

The world of insurance can be labyrinthine and I hope I’ve tried to answer any questions you had on the subject – and if not, reach out to me on X here .

I am a father, surfer, and entrepreneur. Every major life decision I've made has been based around surfing - from career choices to work in the surf industry in my 20s to living in a new country so I can surf more often, one thing is clear.

I love to surf!

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Travel insurance for surfing

Planning to surf on your travels find travel insurance that covers both you and your surfboard..

In this guide

Who provides surf cover and how are you covered?

General exclusions when it comes to surfing cover, compare travel insurance, what are the risks of surfing on my travels, am i covered for injuries like reef cuts, what if the airline damages my board, how to select surfboard insurance, frequently asked questions.

Destinations

What you need to know

• Travel insurance can cover surfacing related accidents and your equipment.
• Travel insurance will only cover your surfing gear when in transport, not when in use.
• You may need to pay extra to fully cover expensive surfing gear – most insurers have a $10,000 cap.

Note: This information was last updated July 2022

• No cover medically if you are under the influence of drugs and alcohol
• No cover medically if you participate professionally or in a paid capacity
• No cover for personal liability

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Injury/illness

Surfing is only as risky as you make it and taking precautions can limit the risks considerably. Nevertheless, accidents do happen and some common risks include:

• Serious reef cuts that require immediate medical attention
• Minor reef cuts that can turn into serious infections
• Emergency evacuation from remote areas following injuries
• Serious spinal injuries
• Dengue fever and malaria in some island chains
• Infections from sea urchins
• Shark attacks – you never know!

Equipment damage and loss

• Damage: There is nothing worse than forking out serious cash for a new set of boards for a trip only to have them seriously damaged in transit or while on your trip away. A number of insurers will provide cover for damaged equipment though conditions will apply. You may be able to pay a little bit extra to have your board listed as a high-value item.
• Theft: It's a sad fact that some of the best surf spots around the world are in locations that are also prone to theft of travelling tourists. South America, South Africa and some parts of Europe and Indonesia can at times have sketchy areas where the theft of gear is a threat. Travel insurance will cover you if your boards are stolen – just remember to get a police report (usually within 24 hours).

A good comprehensive policy will cover you for medical emergencies, so if you wipe out on a coral reef and receive cuts that need medical treatment, you will be covered for the cost up to the benefit limit.

Yes, but not if you deliberately put yourself in danger

There is a condition in many policies that you must have been taking reasonable care at the time you were injured (i.e. paddling out at Pipe if you have only been surfing a few months). If the insurer can show you put yourself in harm's way, it may be able to reject your claim on the basis you did not take reasonable care to protect yourself.

As with most luggage items, if your surfboard is damaged or lost while in the care of the airline, it will usually pay for damages, providing you report the incident as soon as possible. The amount of compensation will depend on the carrier, so if your surfboard is expensive, you would be wise to have travel insurance as well. In such circumstances, your insurer would pay you the difference between what the carrier reimburses you and what the board is insured for.

The best way to ensure your board is not damaged in transit is to buy a good-quality board bag and wrap your board securely in bubble wrap, protecting the nose and tail and removing the fins if possible.

The government’s Smartraveller website lists 5 questions you should ask yourself when buying travel insurance, which are equally applicable to surf travel insurance.

Where are you surfing?

If the place you plan to surf is remote it would be wise to have emergency evacuation cover.

How long are you surfing for?

Is surfing only a part of your itinerary? If so, you may only need to purchase surf cover for that period.

What are you going to do there?

If you plan to do any other activities that might be considered risky, such as scuba diving or hang gliding you may need to take out additional cover.

Do you want to cover your boards?

If so, you may need to choose a higher benefit limit to cover its replacement cost.

Do you have any medical conditions?

If there any pre-existing conditions that you have you must declare them and purchase additional cover if provided, otherwise you won’t be covered.

Why you can trust Finder's travel insurance experts

We're experts

We're independent

We're here to help

Is surfing covered in travel insurance.

Yes. Many travel insurance providers will cover surfing as standard. If travel insurance for surfing isn't included automatically, you should look at an adventure or sports pack .

Am I covered for shark attacks?

Yes, but not if you deliberately put yourself in danger. As with coral cuts, cover for shark attack injuries would depend on whether you behaved in a reckless manner or not. If you deliberately surfed in waters known to be shark-infested, your insurer may consider this reckless behaviour and not cover you for your injuries.

Am I covered for emergency transportation?

Yes. A comprehensive policy should include emergency evacuation and repatriation. If you are injured in a surfing accident and the nearest hospital is only accessible by emergency airlift, then your insurance would cover the cost.

Jessica Prasida

Jessica Prasida is a travel insurance expert for Finder. She lives and breathes travel, having worked as a travel agent and branch manager at STA Travel for over 4 years, then writing about travel insurance with Finder for another 5 years. Jess has a Bachelor of Business from the University of Technology, Sydney and a Tier 1 General Insurance qualification.

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11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in April 2024

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that travelers need to be prepared for the unexpected — from a pandemic to flight troubles to the crowded airport terminals so many of us have encountered.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care or a policy that includes extreme sports, these are the best travel insurance providers to get you covered.

How we found the best travel insurance

We looked at quotes from various companies for a 10-day trip to Mexico in September 2024. The traveler was a 55-year-old woman from Florida who spent $3,000 total on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan was $126.53. The costs displayed below do not include optional add-ons, such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage or pre-existing medical condition coverage.

Read our full analysis about the average cost of travel insurance so you can budget better for your next trip.

However, depending on the plan, you may be able to customize at an added cost.

As we continue to evaluate more travel insurance companies and receive fresh market data, this collection of best travel insurance companies is likely to change. See our full methodology for more details.

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover, what’s not covered, how much does it cost, do i need travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, what are the top travel destinations in 2024, more resources for travel insurance shoppers, top credit cards with travel insurance, methodology, best travel insurance overall: berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

• ExactCare Value (basic) plan is among the least expensive we surveyed.
• Speciality plans available for road trips, luxury travel, adventure activities, flights and cruises.
• Company may reimburse claimants faster than average, including possible same-day compensation.
• Multiple "Trip Delay" coverage types might make claims confusing.
• Cheapest plan only includes fixed amounts for its coverage.

Under the direction of chair and CEO Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has been around since 2014. Its plans provide numerous opportunities for travelers to customize coverage to their needs.

At $135 for our sample trip, the ExactCare Value (basic) plan from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers protection roughly $10 above the average price.

Want something cheaper? Air travelers looking for inexpensive, less comprehensive protections might opt for a basic AirCare plan that includes fixed amounts for its coverage .

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at no extra cost.

Plans available for travelers going on a cruise, participating in extreme sports or taking a luxury trip.

ExactCare Value (basic) plan was among the least expensive we surveyed.

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

Allianz Global Assistance is a reputable travel insurance company offering plans for over 25 years. Customers can choose from a variety of single and annual policies to fit their needs. On top of comprehensive coverage, some travelers might opt for the more affordable OneTrip Cancellation Plus, which is geared toward domestic travelers looking for trip protections but don’t need post-departure benefits like emergency medical or baggage lost.

For our test trip, Allianz Global Assistance’s basic coverage cost $149, about $22 above average.

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

Stand-alone and add-on rental car damage product available.

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

Best for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions: Travel Guard by AIG

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

Travel Guard by AIG offers a variety of plans and coverages to fit travelers’ needs. On top of more standard trip protections like trip cancellation, interruption, baggage and medical coverage, the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available on certain Travel Guard plans, which allows you to cancel a trip for any reason and get 50% of your nonrefundable deposit back as long as the trip is canceled at least two days before the scheduled departure date.

At $107 for our sample trip, the Essential plan was below average, saving roughly $20.

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

Three comprehensive plans and a Pack N' Go plan for last-minute travelers who don't need cancellation benefits.

Flight protection, car rental, and medical evacuation coverage, as well as annual plans available.

Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver available on all plan levels, as long as it's purchased within 15 days.

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

• Higher-level plan include optional add-ons for event tickets and for electronic equipment
• Rental car protection add-on for just $8 per day, even on lower-level plan.
• Many of the customizations are only available on the higher-tier plan.
• Coverage cost comes in above average in our latest analysis.

Travel Insured International offers several customization options. For instance, those going to see a show may want to add on event ticket registration fee protection. Traveling with expensive gear?Consider adding on coverage for electronic equipment for up to $2,000 in coverage.

Be sure to check which policies are available in your state. You will need to input your destination, residence, trip dates and the number of travelers to get a quote and see coverages.

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

Comprehensive plans include medical expense reimbursement accidents, sickness, evacuation and pre-existing conditions, depending on the plan.

Flight plans include coverage for missed and canceled flights and lost or stolen baggage.

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

Many travel insurance plans contain exclusions for adventure sports activities. If you plan to ski, bungee jump, windsurf or parasail, this might be a plan to consider.

Note that the Standard plan ($72 for our sample trip), while the most affordable, provides less coverage than other plans. But it can be a good choice for travelers who are satisfied with trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $2,500 or less, do not need rental car damage protection, find the limits to be sufficient and do not need coverage for certain more adventurous activities.

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

Coverage available for adventure activities, such as trekking, mountain biking and scuba diving.

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

For starters, basic coverage from Travelex Insurance Services came in at $125, almost exactly average for our sample trip.

Travelex’s plans focus heavily on providing protections that are personalized to your travel style and trip type.

While the company does offer comprehensive plans that include medical benefits, you can also choose between cheaper plans that don’t provide cancellation coverage but do offer protections during your travels.

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Three comprehensive plans available, two of which cover international trips.

Offers a post-departure plan geared exclusively toward disruptions after you leave home.

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

Each Seven Corners plan offers several optional add-ons. Among the more unique is a Trip Interruption for Any Reason, which allows you to interrupt a trip 48 hours after the scheduled departure date (for any reason) and receive a refund of up to 75% of your unused nonrefundable deposits.

The basic coverage plan for our trip to Mexico costs $124 — right around the average.

What else makes Seven Corners great:

Comprehensive plans for U.S. residents and foreigners, including travelers visiting the U.S.

Cheap add-ons for rental car damage, sporting equipment rental or trip interruption for any reason.

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

• Coverage available for adventure travelers.
• Special medical insurance for ship captains and crew members, international students and missionaries.
• Claim approval can be lengthy.

While some travel insurance companies offer just a handful of plans, with IMG, you’ll really have your pick. Though this requires a bit more research, it allows you to search for coverage that fits your travel needs.

However, travelers will want to be aware that IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite is expensive. Coming in at $149.85, it’s the costliest plan on our list.

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

• In addition Cancel For Any Reason, some plans offer cancel for work reason coverage.
• Adventure sports-specific coverage is available.
• Plans have overlap that can be hard to distinguish.
• Only one plan includes Rental Car Damage coverage available as an add-on.

Tin Leg’s Basic plan came in at $134 for our sample trip, adding about $8 onto the average basic policy cost. Note that you’ll pay a lot more if you shop for the most comprehensive coverage, and there are eight plans to choose from for trips abroad.

The multitude of plans can help you find coverage that fits your needs, but with so many to choose from, deciding can be daunting.

The only real way to figure out your ideal plan is to compare them all, look at the plan details and decide which features and coverage suit you and your travel style best.

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

• Covers up to $300 redepositing points and miles on eligible canceled award flights.
• Optional add-on protection for business equipment or sports rentals.
• Multi-trip or year-long plans aren’t available.

Selecting your travel insurance plan with TravelSafe is a fairly straightforward process. The company’s website also makes it easy to visualize how optional add-on elements influence the total cost, displaying the final price as soon as you click the coverage.

However, at $136, the Basic plan was among the more expensive for our trip to Mexico.

What else makes TravelSafe great:

Rental car damage coverage add-on is available on both plans.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage available on the TravelSafe Classic plan.

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

• Covers travelers up to 95 years old.
• Includes direct pay option so members can avoid having to pay up front for services.
• A 24-hour delay is required for baggage delay coverage on the TripProtector Economy plan.
• No waivers for pre-existing conditions on the lower-level plan.

HTH offers single-trip and multitrip medical insurance coverage as well as trip protection plans.

At around $125, the Trip Protector Economy policy is at the average mark for plans we reviewed.

You can choose to insure group trips for educators, crew, religious missionaries and corporate travelers.

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

As you shop for travel insurance, you’ll find many of the same coverage categories across numerous plans.

Trip cancellation

This covers the prepaid costs you make for your trip in cases when you need to cancel for a covered reason. This coverage helps you recoup upfront costs paid for flights and nonrefundable hotel reservations.

Trip interruption

Trip interruption benefits generally involve disruptions after you depart. It helps reimburse costs incurred for flight delays, cancellations and plenty of other covered disruptions you might encounter during your travels.

This coverage can cover the costs for you to return home or reimburse unexpected expenses like an extra hotel stay, meals and ground transportation.

Trip delay coverage helps cover unexpected costs when your trip is delayed. This is another coverage that helps offset the costs of flight trouble or other travel disruptions.

Note that many policies have a total amount a traveler can claim, with caps on per diem benefits, too.

Cancel For Any Reason

Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to recoup some of the upfront costs you paid for a trip even if you’re canceling for a reason not otherwise covered by your standard travel insurance policy.

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

This coverage helps cover the costs of essential items you might need when your luggage is delayed. Think toiletries, clothing and other immediate items you might need if your luggage didn’t make it on your flight.

Many travel insurance plans with baggage delay protection will specify how long (six, 12, 24 hours, etc.) your luggage must be delayed before you can make a claim.

Lost baggage

Used for travelers whose luggage is lost or stolen, this helps recoup the lost value of the items in your bag.

You’ll want to make sure you closely follow the correct procedures for your plan. Many plans include a maximum total amount you can claim under this coverage and a per-item cap.

Travel medical insurance

This covers out-of-pocket medical costs when travelers run into an emergency.

Because many travelers’ health insurance plans don’t cover medical care overseas, travel medical insurance can help offset out-of-pocket health care costs.

In addition to emergency medical coverage, many plans have medical evacuation or repatriation coverage for costs incurred when you must be taken to a hospital or return to your home country because of a medical situation.

Most travel insurance plans cover many trip protections that can help you be prepared for unexpected travel disruptions and expenses.

These coverages are generally aimed at protecting the money you put into your trip, expenses you incur because of travel trouble and costs incurred if you have a medical emergency overseas.

On top of core coverages like trip cancellation and interruption and travel medical coverage, some plans offer add-on options like waivers for pre-existing conditions, rental car collision damage waivers or adventure sports riders. These usually cost extra or must be added within a specified timeframe.

Typical travel insurance policies offer coverage for many unforeseen events, but as you research to select a plan, consider your needs. Though every plan differs, there are some commonly excluded coverages.

For instance, you typically can’t get coverage for a named storm if you bought the coverage after the storm was named. In other words, if you have a trip to the Caribbean booked for Sept. 25 and on Sept. 20 a hurricane develops and is named, you generally won’t be able to buy a travel insurance plan Sept. 21 in hopes of getting your money back.

Many plans also don’t cover activities performed under the influence of drugs or alcohol or any extreme sports. If the latter applies to you, you might want to consider a plan with specific coverages for adventure-seekers.

For numerous plans, a few other situations don’t qualify as an acceptable reason to cancel and make a claim, such as fear of travel, medical tourism or pregnancies (unless you booked a trip and bought insurance before you became pregnant or there are complications with the pregnancy). This is where a Cancel For Any Reason add-on to your coverage can be helpful.

You can also run into trouble if you give up on a trip too soon: a minor (or even multihour) flight delay likely isn’t sufficient to cancel your entire trip and get reimbursed through your plan. Be sure to review what requirements your specific plan has when it comes to canceling a trip, claiming trip interruption, etc.

Travel insurance costs vary widely. The final price of your plan will fluctuate based on your age, length of trip and destination.

It will also depend on how much coverage you need, whether you add on specialized policies (like Cancel For Any Reason or pre-existing conditions coverage), whether you plan to participate in extreme sports and other factors.

In our examples above, for instance, the 35-year-old traveler taking a $2,000 trip to Italy would have spent an average $76 for a basic plan to get coverage for things like trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, etc. That’s a little less than 4% of the total trip cost — lower than average.

If there were multiple members in a traveling party or if they were going on, say, a rock-climbing or bungee-jumping excursion, the costs would go up.

On average, travel insurance comes to about 5% to 10% of the trip cost. However, considering many of the plans reimburse up to 100% of the trip cost (or more) for disruptions like trip cancellation or interruption, it can be a worthwhile expense if something goes wrong.

It depends. Consider the following factors that might affect your decision: You’re young and healthy, all your bookings are refundable or cancelable without a penalty, your flights are nonstop, you’re not checking bags and a credit card you carry offers some travel protections . In that case, travel insurance might not be necessary.

On the other hand, if you prepaid a large chunk of money for a nonrefundable African safari, you’re going on a Caribbean cruise in the middle of a hurricane season or you’re going somewhere where the cost of health care is high, it’s not a bad idea to buy a travel insurance plan. Here’s how to find the best travel insurance coverage for you.

If you’re thinking of booking a trip and not planning to buy travel insurance, you may want to consider at least booking refundable airfare and not prepaying for hotel, rental car and activity reservations. That way, if something goes wrong, you can cancel without losing any money.

Selecting the best travel insurance policy comes down to your needs, concerns, preferences and budget.

As you book, take a few minutes to consider what most concerns you. Is it getting stranded because of flight trouble? Having the ability to cancel for any reason you see fit without losing money? Getting sick or injured right before departure and needing to postpone the trip? Injuring yourself or falling ill while overseas?

Ultimately, you want a plan that protects you, your money and the large investment in your trip — but doesn’t cost too much, either.

Medical coverage. If your priority is having adequate medical coverage abroad, you might want to look for plans with high limits for medical emergencies and medical evacuation.

Complex travel itinerary. If your itinerary has lots of flight connections, prepaid hotels and deposits for activities you can’t get back, prioritizing a plan with the best coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions may land at the top of your list.

Travel uncertainty. If you’re on the fence about a trip and have nonrefundable reservations, you may want to select a plan with a Cancel For Any Reason coverage option, which can help you recoup about 50% to 75% of the costs. This helps provide peace of mind, placing the decision on whether to travel entirely in your hands.

Car rentals. If you’re renting a car, a collision damage waiver is often worth looking into.

The following destinations are the top insured destinations in 2024, according to Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner).

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

In 2022, travelers spent about 25.53% more on trips than they did before the pandemic.

As of December, NerdWallet analysis determined travel prices are 10% higher than pre-pandemic. Each statistic makes a strong case for protecting your travel investment as you plan your next trip.

Bookmark these resources to help you make smart money moves as you shop for travel insurance.

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

Here is the list of travel cards offered by Chase that include various forms of travel insurance.

Having one of these in your wallet is a good start to protecting your travel investments and preventing expensive accidents; however, savvy travelers check card terms closely and sometimes supplement with a third-party policy, like from one of the companies above, to better protect themselves.

on Chase's website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 12 hours.

• Car rentals: Theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

• Trip interruption: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for three days.

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight:

Breadth of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered plus the range of their standard plans. 

Depth of coverage: We considered two data points to get a sense of how much each company pays out for common travel issues — the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims.

Cost: By looking at the costs for basic coverage across multiple companies, we determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices against.

Customizability: While standard plans can cover a lot of ground, sometimes you need something a little more personal.

Customer satisfaction. Using data from Squaremouth when available, and Google Reviews as a backup, we can give kudos to companies with better track records from their clients.

No, it doesn’t necessarily get more expensive the longer you wait to purchase. However, as you put off buying insurance, you may lose access to potential plans and coverage options.

In general, buying travel insurance within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

But, generally, many plans do allow you to buy coverage quite close to your departure date.

To get the most out of your travel insurance plan, buy it soon after making your initial prepayment or deposit to ensure you have access to the biggest menu of plans possible.

Select a plan that’s comprehensive enough to cover the travel scenarios you’re most concerned about or likely to encounter but not too expensive or laden with protections you’d never likely need.

Whatever your coverage, thoroughly review the plan so you understand what’s covered and what’s not, plus how to adhere to the plan’s rules for making a claim.

Travelers frequently use phrases like “trip insurance” and “travel insurance,” as well as “trip protection,” interchangeably, but they do mean different things, according to Stan Sandberg, founder of insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com.

Trip insurance, or trip protection, generally refers to predeparture (or preevent) coverage if you need to cancel. You may see these plans sold by airlines, online travel agencies or even ticketed event sellers.

“You could refer to it as the portion that protects the investment in the trip,” Sandberg says.

A travel insurance plan typically includes that — plus more comprehensive benefits to protect you during your trip, from medical coverage to trip delay and lost baggage protections, and many more elements, depending on the plan.

Though travel insurance is typically not required for international trips, your personal circumstances will play a key role in whether it’s a good investment.

For instance, young, healthy travelers with few prepaid trip expenses embarking on a relatively risk-free trip may not see a need to buy a plan.

Older travelers with complicated itineraries who are visiting destinations where they could potentially fall ill or get injured — or who could encounter bad weather or some other disrupting factor along the way — may want to buy coverage.

Consider a few key questions:

How well would your health insurance plan cover you if you needed to visit a hospital overseas?

How much did you prepay for a hotel or rental car?

How much money would you be out if weather or some other flight issue derailed your itinerary?

Could you afford an unexpected night in a city where you have a connecting flight?

Do you already have a credit card that provides some travel protections?

Your answers to these questions can help you decide whether you need travel insurance for your international trip.

In general, buying travel insurance

within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit

for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

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

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit 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

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Cultural surfing vacations, eco & adventure surfing vacations, surf trips with best nightlife, when to go on my surfing vacation.

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Travel Insurance

Medical travel insurance, seniors travel insurance, europe travel insurance, worldwide travel insurance, coronavirus travel insurance, surfing travel insurance.

• Unlimited medical emergency expenses¹
• Up to £10K cancellation cover
• 24/7 emergency medical helpline

Covered 27 million+ travellers

Trusted for 20+ years

24/7 emergency helpline

Surfing travel insurance

Surfing is something most of us would love to try. Feeling the power of the waves beneath your feet appeals to millions of people worldwide.

Surfing can be tricky to master, but finding adequate cover for your trips shouldn’t be.

Whether this is your first wave or the big kahuna you’ve been waiting for, you can rest assured knowing that your surfing travel insurance won’t be something to worry about.

Our  travel insurance  policies all come with automatic cover for  over 100 sports and activities , including insurance for surfing,  jet skiing  and even  scuba diving ! Terms and conditions apply, so please check your policy wording for full details of these and the other activities we cover.

Why do I need travel insurance for surfing?

While incredibly fun, surfing can also be a risky activity. Being caught up in a wave or rip tide could lead to some injuries, and if you’re abroad, you may need medical attention. It’s essential to have quality surf travel insurance, which will cover you in the event of an accident or injury. Rest assured, we’ll have you covered!

What’s included with surfing insurance?

As surfing falls under all our policies as part of our  cover for over 100 sports and activities , you’ll be able to ride those waves knowing that you’re covered for: 

• Medical expenses and hospital benefit
•  Personal accident and liability
•  Cancelling and cutting short your holiday
•  Abandoning your trip
•  Delayed departure
•  Accommodation cover
•  Personal belongings and baggage
•  Personal money, passport and travel documents
•  Legal expenses

 It’s important to note that our surfing travel insurance doesn’t include  kite surfing  over land, so if you plan to surf away from the water, you’ll need additional  extreme sports travel insurance .

If you want to try surfing on your holiday, you can be covered by our policies. However, please note that you will not be covered if this is the main purpose of your trip.

Will my surfboard be insured?

While surfing is covered under all our policies, sports equipment can be expensive, so it should be fully insured if you’re travelling with yours. All our policies include cover for valuables, including sports equipment, so make sure you choose the right level of cover for your needs. If your surfboard is particularly expensive, you can add extended gadget and valuables travel insurance to your policy, which covers up to £1,000 per item – see our  policy wordings  for more details.

Surfing safety tips

Don’t let an accident on the first day ruin the whole week; remember a few simple tips and ensure a great time on the waves.

• Recognise, and be wary of rip currents. Rip currents (or rips) are strong water currents that usually move out to sea. They look like a dark or murky line moving away from the beach. Avoid them so you don’t get caught up in one.
•   Always wear a leash. A leash is like a lanyard that attaches both to you and your surfboard, making you less likely to lose your board. Some beaches are very serious about having your surfboard leashed at all times to prevent any unnecessary injuries.
•   Follow the surfing rules (and general rules) of the beach. Each beach has unique rules designed to keep people as safe as possible during their visit. Ensure you read and respect these rules to help make your surfing experience safe and enjoyable.
•   Choose the right surfing travel insurance policy for you. Get a quote online  or read our  policy documents  for more information on our travel insurance for surfing.
• Unlimited emergency medical expenses available on Black level policies.
• Based on 2,050 responses, correct as of 22/01/2024

Surfers Hype

Surf travel.

Discover the different ways you can combine travel with your passion for surfing

Surf travel Inspiration

The world of surfing is also a world of travel. There is no surfer out there who is satisfied with their home break and does not have the yearn for surf travel, others don’t have the luxury of living by the coast, and surf travel becomes the only option to score some waves.

Even if it is a vacation with the family, it always becomes a family surf vacation. This happens surreptitiously or serendipitously, but it always starts by packing a surfboard. 

When planning a surf trip, there are a few important things to consider. We have made the process easy for you by making this step-by-step list.

Surf Travel Made Easy: Plan Your Surf Trip In 6 Steps

Choose a destination.

Browse through our selection of surf guides and get inspiration for the destination of your next surf trip

Pick accommodation type

What kind of surf experience are you looking for? Pick the accommodation type that suits you best

Get your surf gear ready

Make sure to be prepared. Figure out what gear you need for a surf trip

Find the best surf schools

If you are a beginner, then you need a surf school. Find the best surf school and book your surf classes

Book Flights and transportation

After choosing your destination and accommodation, then you need to take the final step of booking your flight and transportation

Get surf Travel Insurance!

Now, everything is booked, and you feel ready for your surf trip, but one important thing is missing; travel insurance!

Before your surf trip

Despite what we would like to believe, the best surf trips are those that are carefully planned, with the destination analyzed. Everything is done in advance, especially when it comes to surf vacation packages. A strike mission surf trip is for those people who are lucky enough to have no restrictions and can travel by themselves when they want to and thereby hunt down the perfect swells around the world. 

What To Pack for your surf trip?

There are many essentials that you need to pack for a surf trip, regardless of whether the surf vacation is a first-world hotel holiday or a third-world family surf vacation.

The ideal quiver for a surf vacation is three surfboards, including a standard surfboard, a small board for fun days, and a slightly longer board for bigger days. 

Surfboard accessories

Surfboard essentials are all the hard goods that you need to go with your board. These include but are not limited to, surfboard fins . You will need a few spare sets. Surfboard leash . Same here; you will definitely need a spare or two.

Wetsuit or swimwear

Depending on your destination’s climate and water temperature, you will need a wetsuit or board shorts/bikini to surf in .

Exception for beginners

If you are a beginner and are planning on surf lessons at the destination, there is no need for any surfboards, as the surf school will have all you need there.

Can’t have too much of it, be it a block out or a zinc style sunscreen . A surfing hat would also work well here. 

Remember to choose the correct wax for the water temperatures at your destination. Wax for cold water is very different to wax for tropical water.

A medical kit

This is imperative, no matter where you are going or if there is a hospital right there. You will always need a medical kit and the knowledge to use most of the equipment therein. Minor things like a reef scrape or a mosquito bite can quickly get badly infected if not cleaned and looked after, especially in tropical climates. So, the basic cleaning agents and anti-bacterial creams, as well as plasters and bandages, would be a good start.   

Travel insurance

This is vital for all surfers. Many people who choose surf vacation packages and embark on some of the best surf vacations are remiss about their insurance and the travel insurance of their loved ones. Your surf travel insurance needs to cover many options, including the possibility of needing a helicopter medevac. Even the most remote surf destinations have a helicopter landing pad somewhere, usually just a clearing in a jungle or an area at the local school. Still, it is set up for a reason – there is a need for the occasional medevac. If your insurance isn’t up to scratch, the helicopter won’t be arriving.  

Entertainment

While you are going on a surf trip with the boys/girls or you are going on a family surf vacation to spend time with the family and surfing some insane waves, there is also a need for entertainment and downtime diversions.

These days most of this can be done on a good mobile phone, but a tablet could help. Remember to check that you have the correct plugs for charging your handsets and ensure that you have all your data controlled. Downloading a game or a pile of emails on data in a foreign country can cost you the earth. A good idea is to  purchase a local sim card  on arrival and fill it up with data through the local currency. 

The final advice

The final advice for surf travel is the oldest but  the most crucial piece of advice:  pack half the clothes you think you need, but have twice the money available. Literally, pack your bags, and before you leave, take half of them out. You can survive for weeks in boardshorts and tee shirts, especially off the beaten track. You do need to have twice the funds available that you think you need in case of emergencies. This advice is the best advice you can get as a surfer going on a surf trip.

Join our surf community.

We are surfers.

As surfers ourselves, we understand the importance of the best travel insurance products when surfing overseas. Since 2009, we were the original company specialising in surfing insurance in Australia and Hawaii.

Compare Plans, Benefits and Prices. We have taken the hassle of finding the best travel plans, and selected the best travel insurance providers for surfing. Our strict criteria include the following key features, automatic cover while surfing and cover for damage, lost or stolen surfboards while traveling, cancellation costs, unlimited medical and EVAC expenses, EVAC plans, COVID-19 benefits and cruising cover for surf charters.

The team, at STI Surf Travel Insurance have a passion for surfing and qualifications in travel insurance.

History of Surf Travel Insurance

The Surf Travel Insurance company was founded by Greg Hayes from Global Surf Travel, after realising a gap in the surf travel market for travel insurance. Before 2005, insurance underwriters had very limited knowledge of surfing needs and no benefits. It requires more than just covering surfboards and surfing automatically covered, medical EVAC was required for remote surfing destinations.

We worked with the best surf resort managers and surf charter captains, doctors and air ambulance providers with contingency EVAC’s for remote islands. With statistics, research and EVAC plans in hand, it was time to lobby the insurance underwriters and emergency providers. Our goal was for insurers to recognise surf travel as equal to snow sports including sports equipment and EVAC in remote surfing locations.

It has taken some time but today, surfing is now a truly recognised sport with major insurers and some are providing EVAC plans for surfers in remote surfing destinations, including Indonesia, Fiji, Maldives and more.

WHO IS SURF TRAVEL INSURANCE?

As the leaders in surf travel insurance since 2009, we have evolved into a InsureTech company specializing in multiple sporting and adventure activities with access to multiple trusted insurers. Here, in the United States we have an exclusive agreement with Generali U.S. Branch for domestic and overseas travel.

With offices in Florida, Hawaii and Australia, our friendly team are on hand for customer inquiries for adventure sports through to leisure holidays. Our B2B team, network with tourism operators to provide their guests with a choice of travel insurance solutions for adventure and sporting experiences.

Head Office – Florida

+1 727 214 5977

[email protected]

7901 4th St. N STE 11853 St. Petersburg, FL 33702

STI Surf Travel Insurance LLC. L22000502294

As the leaders in surf travel insurance since 2009, we have evolved into a InsureTech company specializing in multiple sporting and adventure activities with access to multiple trusted insurers worldwide. Here, in the United States we have an exclusive agreement with Generali U.S. Branch for domestic and overseas travel.

With offices in Florida, Hawaii, and Australia our friendly team of insurance experts are on hand for customer inquiries for extreme sports through to leisure holidays. Our B2B team, network with leading tourism operators worldwide to provide their guests with a choice of travel insurance solutions for adventure and sporting experiences.

PO Box 97 Burleigh Heads Queensland 4220 Australia

© 2023 Surf Travel Insurance. All rights reserved. | Created by Parallax Creative

Choose Your Travel Plan

When you go away there are certain things that should be covered, so get your quote now and compare coverage on travel plans.

Trusted by over 6 million travelers every year. Travel insurance plans from Generali Global Assistance are only for U.S. residents.  

Insurance Coverages

• Trip Cancellation
• Trip Interruption
• Travel Delay
• Sporting Equipment (Premium & Preferred)
• Baggage Delay
• Sporting Equipment Delay (Premium & Preferred)
• Medical & Dental
• Emergency Assistance & Transportation

Travel Services (Provided by Generali’s designated provider)

• 24-Hour Travel Support Services
• Telemedicine
• No Out-of-Pocket Medical Expenses
• Concierge Services
• Identity Theft Resolution Services
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Coverage (Premium)
• Cover for Financial Insolvency (Premium & Preferred)

Optional Coverage

• Rental Car Damage (Premium Plan Only)
• Trip Cancellation for any Reason (Premium Plan Only. Not available to residents of New York)

Request a Quote

US residents only or a non-resident who has purchased the coverage in the United States of America.

Be sure to check our Travel Plans Info Page before completing this form. 

Primary Traveler's Name

First and last name of all traveler's and their Age. Up to 10 people on one policy. Must be from same state or separate policy for each state.

Primary Travelers Address

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Get the Right Travel Insurance

Megan walch.

Megan Walch,  director of product at InsureMyTrip.com , Warwick, Rhode Island.

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Published Date: April 9, 2024

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What if you were in Maui when wildfires ravaged the town of Lahaina? How would you have gotten home? A good travel insurance plan could go a long way toward assuaging such concerns.

Shopping for coverage: When booking a flight online, you’ll often be asked whether you’d like to buy insurance on your purchase. Always say no, for three reasons—it would be an impulse buy, which is never good…the plans behind such offers usually consist of watered-down coverage…and plans typically cover only airfare. Better: InsureMyTrip.com offers plans from different companies and has licensed insurance agents who can ensure you’re covering everything you want covered.

Elements of a good plan: Most companies don’t sell separate “disaster” plans. Instead, you’ll be purchasing a comprehensive plan and then adding features that would help in the event of a disaster. Typically, if you have to interrupt your trip after departure for a covered reason, the policy will cover the unused prepaid nonrefundable portion of the trip that you stand to lose. There also may be coverage for additional airfare to return back home. Rarely, however, will there be coverage to move to a different accommodation.

Here are some scenarios and features you might want to consider…

A disaster occurs before you leave and you decide not to go: Coverage should reimburse you for the trip’s full cost.

Your destination is placed under an evacuation order: Your coverage should reimburse you for the unused portion of the trip. You may also want to purchase coverage that connects you with an assistance company that can help you navigate through the situation and arrange transportation to safety.

Your flight is delayed: If your flight is delayed for the number of hours specified in the coverage and you’re stuck overnight, policies may cover transportation, food and accommodations.

Your flights must be changed: If you have to change your flights for a covered reason, some plans may offer benefits that can cover the change fee.

You need an emergency flight home: Comprehensive plans that offer trip-­interruption coverage typically will offer benefits to help with the cost of an emergency one-way ticket back home if you end your trip for a covered reason.

You are hospitalized: A comprehensive medical plan can cover your expenses if you become sick or injured. Some also cover medical evacuation.

You have a feeling you shouldn’t go: Some companies offer “cancel for any reason” coverage. This typically covers 50% to 75% of nonrefundable costs. It must be purchased within two to three weeks after your initial payment toward the trip…and cancellation must occur two or more days prior to departure.

Reminders: Buy coverage early — the menu of benefits shrinks the nearer your departure. Read the policy carefully — make sure you understand what you’re buying. Document everything — if a disaster does strike, retain all receipts, paperwork and medical bills.

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Best Travel Insurance for Mexico: Your Ticket to Peace of Mind

Jessica Merritt

Editor & Content Contributor

82 Published Articles 460 Edited Articles

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Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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‌Best Mexico Travel Insurance for Young Travelers: Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

‌best mexico travel insurance for seniors: nationwide, ‌best mexico travel insurance for cancel for any reason (cfar): battleface, best mexico travel insurance for adventure tours: travelex, best mexico travel insurance for covid-19: tin leg, is travel insurance for mexico worth it, mexico travel insurance costs, types of mexico travel insurance, what to look for in a travel insurance policy for mexico, how to get travel insurance for mexico, final thoughts.

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Heading south of the border? Consider getting travel insurance before you pack your bags. Even though Mexico is a nearby destination with direct flights for many Americans, it’s still international travel, and you may benefit from a travel insurance policy that can protect your nonrefundable travel booking costs and offer medical support.

Although travel insurance can add to the cost of travel, it offers peace of mind and can safeguard you against unforeseen circumstances that pop up during your trip. A comprehensive travel insurance policy can provide financial protection for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and unexpected travel disruptions.

Read on to learn why Mexico travel insurance is often a good idea, how much you’ll pay, what’s covered, and how to find the best policies.

The 5 Best Travel Insurance Policies for Mexico

The best travel insurance for Mexico should offer the coverage you need at a reasonable price. We’ve run the numbers for policy scenarios based on age, coverage, and activities so you can get an idea of what Mexico travel insurance policies look like.

Consider these travel insurance policies for your trip to Mexico:

Snapping up cheap travel insurance is fairly easy for young travelers, as insurance companies tend to offer favorable rates for young adults. We were quoted just $16 for a 25-year-old visiting Mexico . This Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection ExactCare Lite plan offers relatively low trip cancellation coverage of up to $500 and up to $750 for trip cancellation. Still, it has $10,000 in secondary medical and $100,000 in medical evacuation benefits.

While seniors don’t get to take advantage of ultra-cheap travel insurance, Nationwide’s Essential plan offers good coverage at a reasonable price. For $93.95, a 65-year-old visiting Mexico can get trip cancellation coverage up to $2,500 and trip interruption coverage up to $3,125 . Primary medical coverage offers up to $75,000 in benefits, and there’s also $250,000 in medical evacuation benefits.

CFAR allows you to get reimbursed for nonrefundable travel expenses if you need to cancel your trip for any reason. Battleface’s Discovery Plan was quoted to us for $104.21 with up to $2,500 in CFAR trip cancellation coverage for a 45-year-old visiting Mexico. While it excels in trip cancellation coverage, this policy has no trip interruption coverage. Secondary medical benefits are up to $100,000, and medical evacuation coverage offers up to $500,000.

If you’re planning adventurous activities in Mexico, you need a travel insurance policy for adventure tours that will cover you even if you get hurt. A Travelex Travel Select plan — $136 for a 45-year-old visiting Mexico — covers activities such as scuba diving and hiking with up to $50,000 in primary medical coverage and $500,000 for medical evacuations.

If you’re concerned that COVID-19 might derail your travel plans before departure or while traveling, getting a travel insurance policy that covers COVID-19 is a good idea. We got a quote of $54 for Tin Leg’s Economy plan for a 35-year-old visiting Mexico . Tin Leg’s trip cancellation and interruption coverage of up to $2,500 includes COVID-19. The $20,000 in secondary medical coverage also includes COVID-19.

Travel insurance is worth it when you have significant nonrefundable travel expenses or concerns about the cost of medical care or evacuation at your destination . It’s also helpful if you might need travel assistance .

You might not be too worried about losing nonrefundable travel expenses if you’ve booked cheap travel deals to Mexico or if your bookings are fully refundable. But if you’ve booked costly Mexico travel plans that you can’t get refunded, travel insurance can give you flexibility and peace of mind if those plans change.

Even though Mexico is just across the border, you shouldn’t plan on your U.S.-based health insurance to offer coverage while you travel to Mexico. Travel insurance generally offers emergency medical coverage that can alleviate financial concerns if you get sick or hurt while in Mexico. That’s helpful if you pick up Montezuma’s revenge or mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria or Zika virus .

For more serious concerns, medical evacuation coverage can get you to qualified medical care or bring you home. The availability of medical care in Mexico varies depending on where you’re visiting, so it could be a great distance to reach a medical facility equipped to treat you. Medical evacuations can be costly, and most travel insurance policies offer 6-figure benefits if you need them.

Cruise travel insurance can be beneficial if you’re planning a cruise to Mexico. Cruise travel tends to be unforgiving with refunds, and you could lose your deposit or more. Generally, cruise lines don’t offer refunds if you cancel within 14 or 30 days before your cruise. But if you have cruise travel insurance , you could get a refund.

While trip cancellation, trip interruption, and medical coverage are the primary benefits of most travel insurance policies for Mexico, travel assistance services can help you when you need it most. Generally, travel insurance assistance hotlines can help with medical referrals, emergency prescription replacement assistance, emergency cash, roadside assistance, travel rebooking, and more.

Expect to pay 5% to 10% of your total trip cost for comprehensive travel insurance for Mexico. For a $2,500 trip, for example, that’s $125 to $250. That generally includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage for at least the cost of your trip, emergency medical and evacuation coverage, and 24-hour travel assistance . However, your travel insurance costs can vary depending on factors that influence policy costs, including:

• Additional features such as CFAR
• Coverage options
• Deductibles and limits
• Travel destination
• Traveler age
• Trip duration

Read our guide to the average cost of travel insurance to learn more about travel insurance costs.

What Mexico Travel Insurance Covers

Travel insurance coverage depends on the policy you select, but you can generally expect comprehensive travel insurance for Mexico to include:

• 24/7 Travel Assistance: Whether you need help finding help in a medical emergency, need replacement credit cards or identification, or have to rebook travel, support is available from travel insurance hotlines.
• Emergency Medical: Travel insurance generally offers financial support for medical emergencies with primary or secondary medical insurance.
• Emergency Evacuation: Travel insurance can pay for costly emergency medical evacuations if you’re seriously ill or injured and need to be moved for medical care.
• Lost or Delayed Baggage: Baggage protection offers coverage if your baggage is lost, stolen, damaged, or delayed and you need to buy replacement items.
• Rental Car Damage: Some travel insurance policies can provide reimbursement if your rental car is damaged in an accident or stolen while you’re on a covered trip.
• Trip Cancellation: You can cancel your trip for covered reasons and get reimbursed for nonrefundable travel expenses.
• Trip Interruption: While traveling, trip interruption coverage can offer refunds for nonrefundable travel expenses if you need to cut your travel short.

With many options for travel insurance, you can customize your travel insurance for Mexico and choose as little or as much coverage as you need . Additional coverage options may include adventure sports or CFAR coverage, which allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and receive partial reimbursement.

CFAR coverage can be especially helpful if you’re traveling during hurricane season and want to be able to cancel your trip if there’s a chance of a storm hitting during your travel dates.

These coverages can add to your travel insurance policy’s cost, so if you’re hoping to get cheap Mexico travel insurance, limiting your policy to primarily trip cancellation and medical coverage may be helpful.

If you’re visiting an area of Mexico with travel advisories for crime and kidnapping , you might consider a kidnapping insurance policy . This type of policy, commonly known as kidnap, ransom, or extortion insurance, is more common for business travel than personal. It can pay a ransom if you’re kidnapped while traveling. Kidnapping coverage is generally not covered by comprehensive travel insurance, so you need a separate policy if you want this type of coverage.

As you shop for Mexico travel insurance policies, consider these important factors that can affect your experience, costs, and coverage:

• Cancellation Timeframe: Verify the cancellation window, which is how long before your trip you need to cancel it to receive full reimbursement.
• Cost: It’s a good idea to get multiple quotes from insurance companies to compare prices and coverage before choosing a policy.
• Coverage Availability: Check the policy’s coverage to make sure it has all of the coverage areas you want, such as trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, and emergency medical treatment and evacuation. Also, look for additional coverage options such as adventure sports and CFAR.
• Coverage Limits: Understand how much you’ll be reimbursed in specific situations, such as canceling your trip or needing emergency medical coverage.
• Customer Reviews: Read travel insurance reviews before you purchase your policy to find out how other customers have rated their experience with the provider.
• Eligibility: Check the fine print to make sure you and your trip are eligible for travel coverage depending on criteria such as age, trip duration, and preexisting conditions.
• Natural Disasters: Mexico is prone to hurricanes, so make sure your trip cancellation and interruption coverage applies to natural disasters.
• Policy Limitations: Travel insurance isn’t a blank check, so you should know what’s excluded and how much is covered. For example, a policy might not cover canceling your trip for work reasons, or medical coverage might not apply if you’re injured doing adventure sports.

You might travel to Mexico with a pet, as most pets don’t require a health certificate to enter Mexico . However, travel insurance policies rarely extend to pets, so you’re not covered if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to pet health, and pet medical expenses aren’t covered either. It’s best to get a pet health insurance policy that works internationally if you’re concerned about travel insurance coverage for your pet.

You may have the opportunity to purchase travel insurance when you book your travel, or you can shop independently for Mexico travel insurance.

Travel agents, airlines, and online travel agencies (OTAs) such as Expedia and Booking.com may give you the option to buy travel insurance at booking. These travel insurance policies are generally offered by third-party travel insurance companies working with the travel company. 

But before you buy travel insurance at booking, it’s a good idea to compare directly with travel insurance companies . You can do so by visiting the travel insurance company websites or using a travel insurance comparison engine such as Squaremouth , where you can get travel insurance quotes from multiple travel insurance companies simultaneously.

Just don’t wait too long to buy your policy: it’s best to buy travel insurance within 2 weeks of making your first trip payment so you can make the most of your coverage.

Also, consider whether you have travel insurance coverage from another source, such as your credit card. Many travel credit cards, such as Chase Sapphire Reserve ® and The Platinum Card ® from American Express , offer travel insurance benefits. Depending on your benefits, you could get coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, baggage delay or loss, rental car damage, medical treatment, medical evacuation, and more from your credit card. Just be sure to check policy limitations and exclusions and consider getting a travel insurance policy if your credit card’s coverage isn’t enough.

Visit our guide to learn about the best credit cards for travel insurance and protection .

Before you head down to Mexico, secure your trip with a travel insurance policy that can help with unexpected circumstances and assure you that you’re covered if anything goes wrong. Compare costs, coverage, and reviews to find the best Mexico travel insurance for your needs.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What insurance do i need to travel to mexico.

You should get comprehensive travel insurance for Mexico that includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage, along with coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuations, and 24/7 travel assistance.

Does my U.S. health insurance cover me in Mexico?

Some U.S. health insurance policies may cover treatment in Mexico, but it’s not common, and you should check your policy to be sure. In most cases, Mexican medical providers are not covered by U.S. health insurance companies, so it’s a good idea to get comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical coverage.

What is usually covered by travel insurance?

Travel insurance commonly covers trip cancellations and interruptions, medical emergencies, baggage protection, travel delays, and emergency evacuations.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico?

Traveling safely in Mexico depends on where you’re going. While some areas in Mexico have elevated levels of crime and require more caution than others, there are many safe places to visit in Mexico. You should always exercise caution while traveling and pay attention to travel advisories .

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About Jessica Merritt

A long-time points and miles student, Jessica is the former Personal Finance Managing Editor at U.S. News and World Report and is passionate about helping consumers fund their travels for as little cash as possible.

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