Best Insurance Companies for Adventure Travel
[Master Guide]
Written by Antonio Cala
Table of Contents
Traveling with an adventure travel insurance is crucial, especially when engaging in adventure sports and extreme activities. Many insurance companies provide travel coverage for international trips, but it’s difficult to know what’s covered what’s not when planning outdoor adventures or going to remote places.
In this article, we’ve tried to compiled the best adventure travel insurance policies available, specifically those designed for adventure sports. There are definitely more insurance providers out there. Many offer generic travel insurance policies, but we’ve decided to only include the best adventure-specific ones to make the process of choosing one less overwhelming for you.
Quick Recommendations
Check out this quick list of our favorite insurance policies, or continue scrolling to see our full list of favorite companies with in-depth reviews.
Type of Adventure Trip
Individual Situations
What Type of Adventure Trip Are You Planning?
Many standard travel insurance policies cover a range of adventure and outdoor activities. However, if you plan to do more extreme and adventurous activities, you will need to purchase an adventure add-on or a completely different policy.
Make sure you check if your trip already includes some insurance. For instance, some adventure cruises offer medical & evacuation insurance with every booking, so in this case what you really need is a policy with a high trip cancellation/interruption insurance, but not a high medical/evacuation coverage since you are already covered by the cruise company.
Adventure Cruises
These policies provide financial protection and peace of mind in the face of unpredictable events, ensuring you can fully enjoy your journey without worries about cancellations, medical emergencies, or unexpected disruptions in remote and challenging environments where adventure cruises take you.
Consider purchasing separate travel insurance for adventure cruises, as it’s often not included in bookings. Focus on high trip cancellation/interruption coverage due to the significant cost involved. Ensure your policy includes medical/evacuation coverage, especially for remote destinations.
Recommended Companies: Travelex Select | Faye | World Nomads – Explorer
Related Guide: Best Travel Insurance for Adventure Cruises
If you would like to read more about insurance options for specific adventure cruise destinations from around the world, you can check out all the destinations we’ve covered by using the toggle below.
Ski Trips
Obtaining insurance for ski trips is indispensable for mitigating the risks associated with this high-adrenaline winter sport.
Skiing accidents and weather-related disruptions are not uncommon, and having ski trip insurance ensures that you’re covered for medical emergencies, equipment loss or damage, and trip interruptions, allowing you to hit the slopes with confidence, knowing you’re financially protected in the event of unforeseen setbacks.
Recommended Companies: Faye | World Nomads – Explorer | Travelex – Select
Related Guide: Best Travel Insurance for Ski Trips
Hiking Trips
Securing insurance for hiking trips is fundamental to enjoying the great outdoors with peace of mind. Hiking adventures often take you to remote and rugged terrain, where injuries, unexpected weather changes, or emergencies can occur.
Hiking trip insurance provides vital coverage for medical expenses, search and rescue, and trip cancellations, ensuring that you can explore nature safely and worry-free, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.
Recommended companies: Global Rescue | Faye | World Nomads – Explorer
Related Guide: Best Travel Insurance for Hiking Trips
If you would like to read more about insurance options for specific hiking routes from around the world, you can check out all the trails we’ve written about by using the toggle below.
Mountaineering & High Altitude Trekking
Obtaining insurance for mountaineering and high-altitude trekking trips is absolutely essential for venturing into challenging and remote environments. These adventures come with inherent risks such as altitude sickness, extreme weather, and the need for specialized rescue operations.
Mountaineering and high-altitude trekking insurance ensures you are covered for emergency medical evacuations, equipment losses, and trip cancellations at a high altitude (over 9,000 ft / 2,400 m) , enabling you to pursue your high-altitude goals with confidence, knowing that you have comprehensive protection against the unique challenges of these pursuits.
Recommended companies: Global Rescue | Faye | World Nomads – Explorer
Related Guide: Best Travel Insurance for Mountaineering & High Altitude Trekking
Mountain Bike Holidays
Securing insurance for mountain bike holidays is crucial for enjoying adrenaline-packed adventures while minimizing potential risks. Mountain biking can be physically demanding and accidents are a possibility, especially on challenging trails.
With mountain bike holiday insurance, you can protect yourself against unexpected medical expenses, bike repairs or replacements, and trip disruptions, ensuring a worry-free and exhilarating experience as you explore new trails and destinations.
Recommended companies: Global Rescue | Faye | World Nomads – Explorer
Related Guide: Best Travel Insurance for Mountain Bike Holidays
Diving Liveaboard Trips
Obtaining insurance for diving liveaboard trips is paramount when embarking on underwater adventures in remote and diverse marine environments. Diving accidents and unexpected health issues can arise.
This type of insurance covers you in the event of an accident while scuba diving and includes the cost of hyperbaric chambers and other related medical expenses. Additionally, you can obtain insurance to protect your trip investment and diving equipment.
Recommended companies: Divers Alert Network | Dive Assure
Related Guide: Best Travel Insurance for Diving Liveaboards
Adventure Motorcycle Trips
Adventure motorcycle trip insurance is indispensable for those seeking thrilling journeys on two wheels through varied terrains and remote regions.
Motorcycle adventures come with inherent risks and this type of insurance remains effective even if the accident occurs while you’re riding a motorcycle.
With adventure motorcycle trip insurance, you gain critical coverage for medical emergencies and evacuation costs, enabling you to explore the open road with peace of mind, knowing you’re financially safeguarded against unexpected setbacks.
Recommended companies: Global Rescue | Faye | World Nomads – Explorer
Related Guide: Best Travel Insurance for Adventure Motorcycle Trips
What's Your Personal Situation?
Depending on your personal situation like you place of residence, age or personal health, you might or not qualify for certain insurance policies.
Make sure you check if your particular situation is covered by your policy. For instance, some companies only offer coverage for US residents while others might have an age limit or do not accept pre-existing conditions.
Primary Residence
Your country of residence plays an important role when choosing an insurance policy. Not every company covers every nationality or country of residence, so you should first check which companies are you eligible to be insured with.
United States: Faye | Travelex | Global Rescue | World Nomads
Europe, Canada, UK, Europe, Australia & New Zealand: Global Rescue | World Nomads
Rest of the World: Global Rescue | World Nomads
Pre-Existing Conditions
Travel insurance for individuals with preexisting conditions is essential, as it provides tailored coverage for their unique healthcare needs while journeying abroad.
This specialized insurance ensures access to medical treatment, medications, and emergency services related to preexisting conditions during travel, offering peace of mind and enabling those with prior health concerns to explore the world confidently, knowing they are financially protected against unexpected health issues while away from home.
Recommended companies: Faye | Global Rescue |Travelex – Select
Related Guide: Best Travel Insurance for Pre-existing Conditions
Seniors Over 65
As age can bring increased health considerations, specialized travel insurance for seniors addresses their unique needs, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen disruptions.
This coverage ensures that mature adventurers can fully enjoy their journeys without worrying about unexpected setbacks, making their travel experiences not only memorable but also worry-free.
Recommended companies: Faye | Global Rescue | World Nomads
Related Guide: Best Travel Insurance for Seniors Over 65
Items You Bring
If you bring a lot of expensive gear with you, you might want to have an insurance policy that gives you a higher coverage against lost luggage or theft.
Most travel insurance policies won’t cover anything above $3,000, so if you are traveling with serious camera equipment you should consider getting a separate camera insurance apart from your regular travel insurance policy.
For the average traveler (laptops, phones, cameras): Protect Your Bubble
For serious photographers (DSLR cameras, lenses, housings, drones, etc): photoGuard | Full-Frame
Best Adventure Travel Insurance Campanies in 2024
Our Pick For
Independent Expeditions + Remote Locations + People Over 75
Nationalities: all nationalities are covered.
Pre-existing conditions: Yes.
Seniors Over 65: People aged 65-75 are included in the Individual Plan. Extended Plan memberships are available to those age 75-84 and include all services but are contingent upon completion of a medical form and a physician’s medical verification.
Trip Duration: Short term policies (7, 14 or 30-days) and long term policies (1 to 5 years) available.
Groups: Individual, family and student plans available.
Situations covered: It covers civil unrest, natural disasters, government evacuation orders and other security emergencies (when purchasing the Security package).
Reasons To Buy
Remote locations coverage. Coverage available for 65-84. Pre-existing conditions accepted. All nationalities accepted.
Reasons To Avoid
The price is a bit higher than other insurance policies. However, no other company provides the same coverage as Global Rescue. It doesn’t cover trip cancellations or delays. It doesn’t cover equipment.
Worldwide field rescue (up to $500,000) in remote or dangerous environments. Global Rescue’s deployable teams are standing by to rescue their members from the point of illness or injury for any serious medical emergency.
Medical Evacuation. Global Rescue’s fully deployable medical teams have unparalleled capabilities to transport our members back to their home hospital of choice from anywhere in the world. This includes global COVID-19 transport.
Medical & Security Advisory Services. Global Rescue’s operations centers are staffed by experienced nurses, paramedics and military special operations veterans. Global Rescue also has partnerships with the Johns Hopkins Emergency Medicine Division of Special Operations, Elite Medical Group and Partners HealthCare, the Harvard Medical School affiliate.
Security Membership. Global Rescue’s teams of military special operations veterans are available to provide advisory, consultation and evacuation services for events like natural disasters, terror attacks and civil unrest when you are in danger.
Destination Reports & Event Alerts. Destination reports for 215 countries and principalities worldwide include entry requirements, COVID-19 travel status and restrictions, detailed health and security assessments and required immunizations. Keep up to date on health and security events worldwide.
My Global Rescue Mobile App. Access Global Rescue services in one location. Browse destination reports and alerts, activate emergency assistance, real-time virtual health visits and keep track of the people you care about with GPS tracking and messaging.
Security Package. Physical extraction when you are in danger of bodily harm. It includes civil unrest, natural disasters, government evacuation orders and other security emergencies.
High Altitude Evacuation.. This is for individuals traveling above 15,000 ft (4,600 m) during any part of their trip (excluding airplane travel). It also includes emergency physical transport due to injury or illness.
Global Rescue is the most comprehensive travel protection available worldwide. It has the least restrictions and biggest coverage than any other medical insurance.
It’s a medical-only protection designed for adventure travelers planning to go remote in an independent or organized adventure trip. All nationalities are covered and options for people over 75 are available.
We recommend Global Rescue for:
- Independent expeditions
- Remote locations
- Mountaineering trips
- High altitude hiking trips
- Adventure motorcycling
- Trips in unstable countries
Global Rescue stands out as the most expansive global travel protection option, offering unparalleled coverage with minimal restrictions compared to other medical insurance plans.
Our Pick For
American Residents Who Want the Highest Coverage
Nationalities: Only US citizens and residents are eligible.
Pre-existing conditions: Pre-existing conditions can be covered for Trip Cancellations and Interruptions, as long as you purchase your plan within 14 days of your initial trip deposit, and are medically able to travel when you purchase your plan.
Seniors Over 65: There is no maximum age limit.
Trip Duration: All plans cover trips up to 180 days.
Groups: Insurance policies for solo travelers, couples and families are available.
Reasons To Buy
The prices are very competitive.
Plans are very customizable with plenty of extras available and the option of removing items you don’t need.
Pre-existing medical conditions accepted.
24/7 chat available with the Faye Mobile App
Reasons To Avoid
Only available to American residents.
Emergency Medical Expenses: Up to $250,000. If you experience sudden illness or injury in-trip, including COVID-19. We can cover prescription drugs, hospitalization and physician costs.
Emergency Evacuation: Up to $500,000. Coverage of transportation in the case of illness or injury that is acute, severe or life threatening when adequate medical treatment is not available in the immediate area.
Trip Cancellation: Up to 100%. If you need to cancel your trip for covered reasons, including if you get sick, contract COVID-19, or a travel provider goes bankrupt. We can cover flights, hotel bookings, tickets & activities, and quarantine accommodation.
Trip Interruption: Up to 150%. When you must unexpectedly cut your trip short or extend it for covered reasons, including if you contract COVID-19.
Trip Delay: Up to $4,500. Up to $300/day, for delays of more than 6 hours. When you’re stranded in transit due to reasons outside of your control such as flight delay or theft of passport.
Lost or damaged Belongings: Up to $2,000. Reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage, including clothing, personal items and professional equipment like a phone or laptop.
Cancel for Any Reason: Up to 75% of Trip Cost. The ability to nix your trip for reasons other than those covered in your plan’s trip cancellation coverage, including fear of contracting COVID-19, as long as you purchase this coverage within 14 days of your initial trip deposit and cancel at least 48 hours in advance of your scheduled departure date.
Pet Care: Up to $2,500 in veterinary expenses & $250 for kenneling. Coverage of veterinary expenses if you take your furry friend along (including pet sickness or injury), or kenneling costs if you arrive back home later than expected.
Adventure & Extreme Sports: Up to $250K (international trips) or $50K (domestic trips) for accidental & sickness expenses. Medical and transportation coverage if you become injured while participating in an adventure or extreme sport, like skydiving, bungee jumping, motocross or free diving.
Faye insurance provides American residents one of the biggest medical coverages on the market at a very competitive price. You can also add or subtract items so you only pay for what you really need.
We recommend Faye for:
- Seniors over 65
- Adventure cruises
- Ski trips
- Mountain biking holidays
For U.S. residents seeking complete travel protection, including high medical coverage, trip protection, and baggage coverage, Faye emerges as one of the best options available.
Our Pick For
Expensive Trips ($10k+) + High Medical Coverage
Nationalities: Only residents of the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Norway, Sweden, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand and UAE can purchase a Travel Guard insurance policy.
Pre-existing conditions: Yes.
Seniors Over 65: Travelers aged 65-75 are covered.
Trip Duration: All plans cover trips up to 364 days.
Groups: One children aged 17 and under is included with an adult policy at no extra cost.
Reasons To Buy
Highest medical expenses and trip cancellation/interruption coverage combined under the same policy.
Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver Available (must be purchased within 15 days of the Initial Trip Payment).
Reasons To Avoid
Not all nationalities are covered.
Must be less than 75 years old.
Travel Medical Expense/Dental Expense: Up to $100,000/$500. Travel Medical Expense pays for medical expenses incurred due to a Sickness or Injury that happens while on a Trip. A $500 sub-limit applies for dental expenses.
Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation of Remains: Up to $1,000,000. Covers evacuation expenses as directed by a Physician to the nearest adequate medical facility or home in the event of death or if medically required.
Trip Cancellation: Up to 100% Insured Trip Cost. Reimburses nonrefundable, Unused payments or deposits if you must cancel your Trip due to an illness, Injury, or death of you, a Family Member, Traveling Companion or Business Partner, or for other covered reasons. Maximum of $150,000.
Trip Interruption: Up to 150% Insured Trip Cost: Reimburses nonrefundable, Unused payments or deposits if you must interrupt your Trip due to an illness, Injury, or death of you, a Family Member, Traveling Companion or Business Partner, or for other covered reasons. Maximum of $225,000
Trip Interruption – Return Transportation Only: Up to $1,000. Reimburses the additional Transportation expenses incurred by you to reach the Return Destination if your Trip is interrupted by one of the Unforeseen events shown in the Policy Trip Interruption section.
Trip Delay: Up to $1,000. Reimburses up to $200 per day for Reasonable Additional Expenses until travel becomes possible if your Trip is delayed for more than 5 hours due to covered reasons.
Baggage Coverage: Up to $2,500. Reimburses you if your luggage is lost, damaged, or stolen while on your Trip. Coverage is primary.
Trip Saver: Up to $5,000. Reimburses up to $5,000 for meals, Hotels and additional Transportation if the Insured must begin their Trip sooner than the originally scheduled Departure Date due to Inclement Weather or Common Carrier changes.
Baggage Delay: Up to $500. Reimburses you for the purchase of necessary personal effects if your bags are delayed for more than 12 hours.
Missed Connection: Up to $1,000. Reimburses you if Inclement Weather or Common Carrier causes cancellation or a delay to your point of departure of regularly scheduled airline flights for three or more hours. Does not apply if you do not leave adequate time between connecting flights.
Security Evacuation: Up to $100,000. Coverage for security evacuation, Flight Guard® and Trip Cancellation or Trip Interruption due to a riot or civil disorder.
Cancel for Any Reason Bundle. Reimburses up to the Maximum Limit shown on the Schedule of Benefits if you cancel your Trip for any reason, not otherwise covered under the Policy, up to 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
Adventure Sports Bundle. Removes the exclusions for adventure and extreme activities from all benefits on the Policy.
Pet Bundle. Daily benefit for boarding, and a medical expense coverage for illness or Injury of dog or cat while traveling. Includes coverage for Trip Cancellation or Trip Interruption if your Pet is in critical condition or dies within seven days prior to the Departure Date.
Wedding Bundle. Trip Cancellation due to wedding cancellation. Coverage does not apply if you are the bride or groom in the wedding.
The Travel Guard Deluxe plan is the best plan on the market for those who need both the highest medical and trip coverage.
It offers a trip cancellation/interruption coverage up to $150,000 / $225,000, a medical coverage up to $100,000 and emergency evacuation up to $1,000,000.
We recommend Travel Guard for:
- Expensive trips, like adventure cruises
- People needing high medical coverage
Travel Guard offers competitive packages with some of the highest medical expense coverage available in the market.
Our Pick For
Americans Going on Adventure Cruises
Nationalities: All nationalities are covered, as long as they are US residents.
Pre-existing conditions: Yes.
Seniors Over 65: Senior travel insurance package is offered to seniors over 65.
Trip Duration: Travel Select and Travel Basic plans cover trips up to 364 days. Travel America plan covers trips up to 14 days.
Groups: Individual and family plans available.
Destinations covered: Covers worldwide, except Ukraine, Syria, Iran, North Korea, Libya, Belarus, and Russian Federation.
Reasons To Buy
The price is competitive.
Pre–existing conditions accepted.
Covers worldwide, except Ukraine, Syria, Iran, North Korea, Libya, Belarus, and Russian Federation.
Reasons To Avoid
Only available to US residents.
They receive mixed reviews online.
Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expense: Up to $50,000. It comes with a dental coverage sublimit of $500
Emergency Evacuation: Up to $500,000. It comes with an escort coverage limit of $25,000.
Trip Cancellation: 100% of insured trip cost. It comes with a limit of $50,000.
Trip Interruption: 150% of insured trip cost. It comes with a limit of $75,000.
Trip Delay: Up to $2,000. The policy comes with a daily sublimit of $200 and a minimum delay of 5 hours
Baggage & Personal Effects: Up to $1,000. Items sublimits apply.
Additional Medical Coverage. Increase your medical expenses coverage by $50,000 and up your medical evacuation coverage by $500,000.
Adventure Sports. Get protection for participating in professional athletic events, ziplining, skydiving, mountain climbing, and traveling on any air-supported devices.
Cancel for Any Reason. Protect yourself against the unexpected – whatever it maybe – and cancel your trip for any reason up to 48 hours before your scheduled departure date.
The Travelex Select Plan is a good option for American residents going on adventure cruises (or other adventure trips that cost over $10k) and don’t need more than $50k of medical coverage.
We recommend Travelex for:
- Expensive trips.
- Adventure Cruises
- People NOT needing high medical coverage
Travelex is particularly appealing for high-ticket adventure trips, such as adventure cruises, where medical coverage is often included, and the priority is safeguarding your trip investment against potential cancellations.
Our Pick For
Affordable + Good Medical Coverage + Some Baggage Coverage
Nationalities: Most nationalities can purchase insurance from World Nomads, including residents of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, India, Australia, or New Zealand. However, as of the current writing, most European residents are unable to buy a World Nomads policy.
Pre-existing conditions: Not covered.
Seniors Over 65: Travelers aged 70 and over are not covered.
Trip Duration: All plans cover trips up to 365 days.
Groups: Insurance policies for solo travelers, couples and families are available.
Reasons To Buy
The price is competitive.
Reasons To Avoid
Prices and coverage vary greatly by the country of residence.
Some European nationalities are not covered.
Pre-existing medical conditions not covered
Max age is 70 years old.
Emergency Accident & Sickness Medical Expense: Up to $100,000. Coverage is for medical expenses for emergency treatment of an accidental injury that occurs during the trip. Emergency treatment must be medically necessary and performed during the trip. Refer to the certificate / policy for complete details.
Emergency dental treatment: Up to $750. Coverage is for emergency dental treatment for accidental injury to sound, natural teeth. The injury and treatment must occur during the trip.
Emergency Evacuation: Up to $500,000. Coverage is for an accidental injury or sickness occurring during the trip that results in your necessary emergency evacuation. An emergency evacuation must be ordered by a physician who certifies that the severity of your accidental injury or sickness warrants your emergency evacuation. Refer to the certificate / policy for complete details.
Trip Cancellation: Up to $10,000. Reimburses for prepaid, non-refundable cancellation charges if you must cancel your trip (after the effective date) due to covered sickness, accidental injury, or death of you, a family member or traveling companion; inclement weather, unforeseen natural disaster at home or at your destination, strike or other covered reasons. Refer to the certificate / policy for complete details.
Trip Interruption: Up to $10,000. Reimburses for prepaid, non-refundable, unused expenses if you must interrupt your trip (after departure) due to a covered sickness, accidental injury, or death of you, a family member or traveling companion; inclement weather, unforeseen natural disaster at home or at your destination, strike, or other covered reasons. Refer to the certificate / policy for complete details.
Trip Delay: Up to $3,000. Coverage is for unused portion of pre-paid accommodation or additional expenses, on a one-time basis, if you are delayed en route to or from the trip for 6 or more hours due to a defined hazard as explained in the certificate / policy.
Baggage & Personal Effects: Up to $3,000. Reimbursement is for loss, theft or damage during the trip to baggage and personal effects (including sporting equipment) owned by you, provided you have taken all reasonable measures to protect, save and recover the property. Per article limit of $500.
Activities covered based on 4 groups. You pay more for higher group. The Explorer plan includes more activities than the Standard Plan. Extreme activities not covered (cave diving, free soloing, etc)
The World Nomads Explorer Plan is a great option if you’re looking for an affordable travel insurance with good medical coverage and some equipment coverage (up to $3,000) under the same policy.
We recommend World Nomads for:
- Budget travelers
- Hiking trips
World Nomads offers affordable packages that covers a good amount of adventure activities, along with solid medical expense coverage. However, the coverage for trip cancellations and interruptions is relatively small. They are one of the most budget-friendly companies we’ve reviewed and receive relatively positive reviews online.
Our Pick For
Dive Accident Insurance
Nationalities: Most nationalities are covered. You will need to purchase your membership & insurance with the corresponding DAN office that serves your area (see Limitations section above).
Pre-existing conditions: Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
Seniors Over 65: Includes coverage for divers age 70 and over in the U.S. and Canada
Trip Duration: Both the DAN membership and dive accident insurance are only offered as annual. Travel insurance is offered for single trips or annual.
Groups: Both membership and insurances are available as individual and family plans.
Reasons To Buy
The price is competitive.
Available for divers age 70 and over in the U.S. and Canada.
Plans recognized worldwide
Reasons To Avoid
You need to join DAN first, then add your insurance
Only annual coverage available. You cannot buy a week or month coverage.
Accidental Medical Expense Coverage. Coverage for hyperbaric chamber treatment, physician and hospital charges and emergency transportation by ground, air or marine ambulance.
Accidental Death & Dismemberment. Coverage for loss of life or limb resulting from a covered diving accident or named water sport accident while on a trip.
Permanent & Total Disability Coverage if permanently unable to return to work due to a covered diving accident or named water sports accident while on a trip.
Search & Rescue Coverage. Coverage to support the Coast Guard, local police or the efforts of other international services to locate you at sea due to a covered diving accident.
Extra Transportation & Accommodation. Coverage for airfare, hotels, meals and incidentals if your return travel is delayed due to treatment prescribed by a doctor after a covered diving accident.
Lost Diving Equipment. Coverage for equipment such as a regulator, BCD, dive computer or fins that are unintentionally lost or damaged as a result of a covered diving accident.
DAN dive accident insurance is an affordable way for divers to obtain insurance against the costs of dive injuries that are often left uncovered by most travel insurances. You need to be DAN member to be able to purchase the insurance.
We recommend DAN for:
- Dive accident insurance
DAN is the most popular insurance for divers traveling internationally. Their membership, combined with dive accident insurance, provides comprehensive coverage that every diver should have when traveling.
Our Pick For
Scuba Diving Liveaboard Trips
Nationalities: Most nationalities are covered.
Pre-existing conditions: Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
Seniors Over 65: Includes coverage for divers age 74 and under.
Trip Duration: The maximum trip length for single-trip programs is 180 days, while the maximum trip length for multi-trip program is 42 consecutive days (per trip).
Groups: Both membership and insurances are available as individual and family plans.
Reasons To Buy
Unlike DAN, short term plans are available.
Liveaboard rider protects your trip investment in almost any situation.
Available for divers age 74 and under.
Reasons To Avoid
You need to purchase a membership first, then add your insurance.
Emergency Medical Expenses – Diving Related: Up to $1,000,000.
Emergency Medical Evacuation – Diving Related: Up to $1,000,000.
Emergency and Accidental Medical Treatment and Evacuation – Non-Diving Related: Up to $50,000.
Cancellation and Interruption- Comprehensive Coverage: Up to $15,000.
Lost Diving Days due to Weather: Up to $200/1000 (day/total). Travel Delay: Up to $1,000.
Dive Assure stands as one of the popular insurance choices for international travelers who are avid divers. Their membership, coupled with dive accident insurance, travel insurance, and the liveaboard rider, offers a comprehensive protection package for every diver. It’s the best option for travelers wanting to insure their liveaboard trip.
We recommend Dive Assure for:
- Diving liveaboard trips
Dive Assure stands as one of the popular insurance choices for international travelers who are avid divers. Their membership, coupled with dive accident insurance, travel insurance, and the liveaboard rider, offers a comprehensive protection package for every diver.
It’s the best option for travelers wanting to insure their liveaboard trip.
Comparison Table
Company |
Plan |
Medical Expenses |
Emmergency Evacuation |
Trip Cancellation |
Trip Delays |
Equipment Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Travel |
$100,000 |
$500,000 |
None |
None |
None |
|
|
Adv Sports |
$250,000 |
$500,000 |
100% |
150% |
$2,000 |
|
|
Essential |
$15,000 |
$150,000 |
100% |
100% |
$750 |
|
|
Preferred |
$50,000 |
$500,000 |
100% |
150% |
$1,000 |
|
|
Deluxe |
$100,000 |
$1,000,000 |
100% |
150% |
$2,500 |
|
|
Standard |
$100,000 |
$300,000 |
$2,500 |
$500 |
$1,000 |
|
|
Explorer |
$100,000 |
$500,000 |
$10,000 |
$3,000 |
$3,000 |
|
|
Basic |
$15,000 |
$100,000 |
$10,000 |
100% |
$500 |
|
|
Select |
$50,000 |
$500,000 |
$50,000 |
150% |
$1,000 |
Generic Travel Insurance VS Adventure Travel Insurance
An adventure travel insurance policy differs from a generic travel insurance policy by providing specialized coverage for high-risk and adventurous activities.
While a generic travel insurance policy typically covers standard travel components such as trip cancellations, medical expenses, and lost baggage, an adventure travel insurance policy extends its coverage to include specific adventure activities like mountaineering, bungee jumping, or scuba diving.
These policies account for the increased risks associated with these activities and offer additional benefits such as emergency evacuation, search and rescue costs, and coverage for equipment or gear used during the adventures.
Adventure travel insurance policies are designed to cater to the unique needs of adventure travelers, ensuring that they have adequate protection and peace of mind while engaging in thrilling pursuits.
What's Covered & What's Not
Activities |
Generic Travel Insurance |
Adventure Insurance |
|---|---|---|
|
Land |
Moderate and non-technical hikes, camping. |
High altitude, technical hikes, rock climbing. |
|
Water |
Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding. |
Scuba diving, jet skiing, white-water rafting. |
|
Winter |
Skiing, snowboarding. |
Heli-skiing, off-piste skiing, snowmobiling. |
|
Cycling |
Recreational biking. |
Downhill mountain biking, extreme cycling. |
|
Wildlife |
Basic safari activities, game drives. |
Walking safaris, wildlife interactions. |
|
Air |
- |
Bungee jumping, hang gliding, sky diving. |
Many standard travel insurance policies typically cover a range of adventure and outdoor activities. However, if you plan to do more extreme and adventurous activities, you will need to purchase an adventure add-on or a completely different policy.
It’s important to note that the coverage provided by each travel insurance policy can differ significantly. Therefore, it is essential to carefully review the policy wording and contact the insurance provider to understand exactly what activities are covered and if any additional coverage is required.
The following table shows what’s normally expected from a travel insurance policy and what activities require a specific adventure add-on.
Things to Be Aware
When shopping for travel insurance, there are several important points to consider to make sure you select a policy that best suits your needs and provides peace of mind during your trips.
Every insurance has its own small print which sometimes might be confusing. So we’ve compiled the key things you need to check before purchasing any policy for travel.
Coverage Types & Limitations
Understand the different types of coverage offered, such as medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, emergency evacuation, lost baggage, and travel delays. Check how much are you cover for each and if there are any limitations.
Typical limits include a trip cancellation of 100% but with a limit of certain amount (i.e. Up to $10,000). So it’s not really 100% if your trip cost you over $10,000.
Luggage protection is a tricky one as well. They will offer you a total amount (i.e. $3,000) but they will have certain limits per item (i.e. $300 per item). So if your $2,000 camera is lost, you will only receive $300 compensation.
Trip Duration and Frequency
Consider the duration and frequency of your trips. Some insurance policies may have restrictions on trip length or provide coverage only for a specific number of days. Ensure the policy aligns with your travel plans.
Destination Coverage
Verify that the policy covers the destinations you plan to visit. Some countries may have specific requirements, or might not covered at all. So make sure your destination is included in the policy you purchase.
Medical Coverage
Review the medical coverage limits and inclusions. Ensure the policy covers emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, medical evacuation, and repatriation.
Check if pre-existing conditions are covered or require additional riders. If covered, you normally have to purchase it within 15 days of the initial trip payment
Deductibles and Limits
Understand the deductibles and limits associated with various coverage areas. Deductibles are the amount you must pay before the insurance coverage kicks in, and limits are the maximum amount the insurer will pay for a particular category of expenses.
Policy Exclusions
Carefully read the policy exclusions to understand what is not covered. Common exclusions may include pre-existing conditions, adventure sports, high-risk activities, or acts of terrorism. Be aware of any limitations that may impact your coverage.
Trip Cancellation/Interruption Coverage
Evaluate the terms and conditions for trip cancellation or interruption coverage. Understand the covered reasons for cancellation, the reimbursement limits, and any required documentation.
Some insurance companies provide a Cancel for Any Reason rider, which needs to be purchased separately.
Travel Assistance Services
Check if the insurance provider offers 24/7 travel assistance services. These can include emergency hotlines, medical advice, translation services, or help with lost documents. Having reliable support during your travels can be invaluable.
Claims and Assistance
Filing a Claim
In the unfortunate event that a traveler needs to file a claim, the process is usually straightforward. The traveler should contact their insurance provider as soon as possible and provide all relevant information. This may include documentation of the incident, such as police reports or medical bills.
It is important to note that different insurance providers may have different requirements for filing a claim. Some may require the traveler to fill out a claim form, while others may allow the traveler to file a claim online. It is important to read the policy details carefully and follow the instructions provided by the insurance provider.
Typical limits include a trip cancellation of 100% but with a limit of certain amount (i.e. Up to $10,000). So it’s not really 100% if your trip cost you over $10,000.
Luggage protection is a tricky one as well. They will offer you a total amount (i.e. $3,000) but they will have certain limits per item (i.e. $300 per item). So if your $2,000 camera is lost, you will only receive $300 compensation.
Emergency Assistance Services
In addition to providing coverage for medical expenses and trip cancellations, many adventure travel insurance policies also offer emergency assistance services. These services can be invaluable in the event of an emergency, such as a medical evacuation or a natural disaster.
Emergency assistance services may include access to a 24-hour hotline, which can provide immediate assistance and advice in the event of an emergency. They may also include assistance with finding medical care or arranging for transportation back to the traveler’s home country.
It is important to note that emergency assistance services may not be available in all locations. Travelers should check their policy details carefully to understand what services are included and how to access them in the event of an emergency.
Tips for Travelers
Pre-Trip Preparations
Before embarking on an adventure trip, it’s important to take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. One of the most important things to do is to purchase travel insurance that covers adventure sports. This will provide coverage for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during the trip.
When selecting a travel insurance plan, travelers should carefully read the policy and understand what is covered and what is not. Some policies may not cover certain activities, such as bungee jumping or skydiving, so it’s important to choose a plan that covers all the activities planned during the trip.
Staying Safe Abroad
While traveling abroad, it’s important to stay alert and aware of the surroundings. Travelers should avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items and keep important documents, such as passports and visas, in a safe place. It’s also a good idea to keep a copy of these documents in case they are lost or stolen.
In addition, travelers should research the local customs and laws of the country they are visiting to avoid any misunderstandings or legal issues. It’s also important to stay up to date on any travel advisories or warnings issued by the government.
By taking these precautions and purchasing the right travel insurance plan, adventure travelers can enjoy their trips with peace of mind, knowing they are prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should I consider when choosing travel insurance for high-risk activities?
When choosing travel insurance for high-risk activities, there are a few factors to consider. First, make sure the policy covers the specific activities you plan to participate in. Some policies may exclude certain activities, such as bungee jumping or skydiving. Second, consider the level of coverage you need. If you’re participating in an activity with a higher risk of injury, you may want a policy with higher medical coverage limits. Finally, consider the deductible and other policy limits, as well as any exclusions or restrictions.
How much does adventure travel insurance typically cost?
The cost of adventure travel insurance can vary depending on a number of factors, including the level of coverage, the activities you plan to participate in, and the length of your trip. On average, however, adventure travel insurance can cost anywhere from 4% to 10% of the total trip cost.
What’s the best company for travel insurance that covers extreme sports?
There are several companies that offer travel insurance for extreme sports and adventure activities. Some popular options include Global Rescue, Faye and World Nomads. It’s important to compare policies from different companies to find the one that best meets your needs.
How do I determine the right amount of coverage for my adventure trip?
When determining the right amount of coverage for your adventure trip, consider the potential risks and costs associated with your planned activities. Look for policies with high medical coverage limits, as well as coverage for emergency medical evacuation and trip cancellation/interruption. It’s also a good idea to consider the deductible and any exclusions or restrictions.
Are there any adventure activities that travel insurance won’t cover?
Yes, there are some adventure activities that travel insurance may not cover. These can vary depending on the policy and the insurance company, but common exclusions include activities such as base jumping, mountaineering, and professional sports. It’s important to carefully review the policy details to ensure that your planned activities are covered.
What’s the claims process like for adventure travel insurance?
The claims process for adventure travel insurance is similar to that of other travel insurance policies. In the event of a covered loss, you’ll need to file a claim with the insurance company and provide documentation to support your claim. This may include medical bills, police reports, or other evidence of the loss. The insurance company will then review your claim and determine whether it’s covered under the policy.
Insurance for Adventure Travel Online
When doing your research, you might want to read what other publications have to say about the best insurance for adventure trips.
Here are some of the most popular articles I found interesting.
Best Adventure Sports Travel Insurance – NerdWallet.com
7 Best Travel Insurance for Extreme Sports and Adventure Activities – Outofyourcomfortzone.net
About the Author
Antonio was born and raised in Southern Spain, and quit his job in 2013 to travel the world full-time with his wife Amanda for 10 years straight. Their passion for adventure took them to visit 150+ countries.
They cycled 25,000km + from California to Patagonia, sailed over 10,000NM around the Caribbean & Sea of Cortez, rode their motorbikes 30,000 kms+ across West Africa (Spain to South Africa) and visited Antarctica, among many other adventure expeditions. Today, they’re still traveling, currently around the USA with an RV.
Traveling to so many places, remote destinations and by different means taught them a lot about travel insurance, which policies to hold depending on the area and the type of adventure they were doing. Antonio now publishes regular content to help other travelers choose the best travel insurance for adventure trips.
Together, they also run the travel community Summit, the RV site Hitched Up, the boutique accommodation blog Unique Places and the popular newsletter Adventure Fix, where they share their knowledge about the places they’ve visited and the ones still remaining on their list.
Antonio Cala
Co-Founder of Adventure Fix