When you’re planning your next big adventure, travel insurance might not be the most exciting part of your checklist. But, trust me, it’s one of the most important.
After years of exploring the world, I’ve learned the hard way that the unexpected is, well, always expected.
Reliable travel insurance has saved my bacon more than once.
That’s why today, I’m breaking down two of the biggest names in travel insurance: SafetyWing vs World Nomads.
Both are well-known in the travel community, but they each have their own strengths, quirks, and pricing to consider.
Whether you’re a digital nomad, a weekend adventurer, or planning a family trip abroad, I’ll help you figure out which option is the best fit for your journey.
Ready? Let’s roll.
Quick Comparison: SafetyWing vs World Nomads
Feature | SafetyWing | World Nomads |
|---|---|---|
Coverage Area | Worldwide, excluding North Korea, Cuba, and Iran. Limited coverage in the U.S. | Over 140 countries; coverage varies by country of residence. |
Price Range | Starting at approximately $45 USD per 4 weeks. | Starting at about $120 USD per 4 weeks. |
Target Audience | Digital nomads, remote workers, and long-term travellers seeking affordable, flexible coverage. | Adventure travellers and backpackers desiring comprehensive coverage, including some high-risk activities. |
COVID-19 Coverage | Included in all plans for treatment if contracted after policy start. | Coverage for COVID-19 related illnesses, subject to terms and conditions. |
Flexibility | Subscription-based model; start, pause, or cancel anytime. | One-time payment with options to extend or claim online while travelling. |
Online Reviews | Generally positive; praised for affordability and flexibility, with some noting limited coverage for high-risk activities. | Positive reviews highlight comprehensive coverage, though some find it pricier. |
My Note: Prices and coverage details are subject to change; always refer to the providers' official websites for the most current information.
Now, let’s start this World Nomads vs SafetyWing review.
World Nomads Vs. SafetyWing
When it comes to travel insurance, it’s all about finding the right match for your travel style.
Both SafetyWing and World Nomads offer solid coverage, but they cater to slightly different types of adventurers.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what makes each company stand out:
SafetyWing: Built for the Digital Nomad Life
If you’re someone who’s traded your office desk for co-working spaces in Bali or the beaches of Mexico, SafetyWing might feel like it was designed just for you.
This up-and-comer in the travel insurance world focuses on affordable, subscription-based plans that are perfect for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
Some of my favourite SafetyWing perks include:
- Monthly payments keep things flexible, much like your remote work schedule.
- Plans cover you almost anywhere, with the option to add U.S. coverage if needed.
- Bonus: They even provide limited coverage for short visits to your home country—a rare find in travel insurance.
SafetyWing isn’t flashy, but its practicality and affordability make it a no-brainer for travellers who are always on the go.
World Nomads: Adventure-Ready Since Day One
For the thrill-seekers and bucket-listers, World Nomads has been a trusted name in travel insurance for years.
Known for its comprehensive trip-based policies, this provider excels at covering adventure sports and high-risk activities.
Whether you’re bungee jumping in New Zealand or scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef, World Nomads has your back.
Here’s what stood out to me when I first used World Nomads travel insurance:
- Policies specifically designed for adventurous travellers.
- Coverage for over 150 sports and activities, from hiking to heli-skiing.
- Option to extend your policy mid-trip. This is a lifesaver if you decide to stay longer (because, let’s face it, it happens).
World Nomads brings peace of mind to travellers who live for the rush but still want to play it smart.
Now that we have a solid idea of what World Nomads and SafetyWing are about, let’s look at what they both offer.
Ready for unlimited adventure? Get travel insurance that covers over 150 activities and 190 destinations.
What SafetyWing and World Nomads Offer
Travel insurance isn’t just about having a safety net. It’s about having the right safety net for your kind of adventure.
Let’s break down what SafetyWing and World Nomads bring to the table so you can decide which one has the coverage you need when things don’t go as planned.
Medical Coverage
SafetyWing
Focused on the essentials, SafetyWing provides solid medical coverage for sudden illnesses and injuries.
Their plans include emergency medical evacuation, so if you’re off the beaten path and need to be airlifted to proper care, you’re covered.
However, it’s worth noting that pre-existing conditions aren’t covered, and there’s a cap on certain expenses, so be sure to read the fine print.
World Nomads
Known for its robust medical coverage, World Nomads steps up with higher limits for emergency care and evacuation.
They also cover dental emergencies, which is a win if you’ve ever bitten into something that fought back.
Plus, they’re a bit more flexible with pre-existing conditions if you meet their criteria.
Adventure Activities
SafetyWing
SafetyWing covers basic adventure activities like hiking, cycling, and some watersports.
But if you’re planning to jump out of a plane or ski off-piste, you might want to double-check their exclusions list.
It’s a good option for casual adventurers, but hardcore adrenaline junkies might find it a bit limiting.
World Nomads
This is where World Nomads shines.
With coverage for over 150 sports and activities, including scuba diving, bungee jumping, and skiing, it’s tailor-made for travellers who like their trips with a side of heart-pounding excitement.
If it gets your pulse racing, chances are they’ve thought of it.
Trip Protection
SafetyWing
Their policies focus more on medical needs, so trip protection is limited.
They don’t offer extensive coverage for trip cancellations, delays, or interruptions, which might leave you in the lurch if your flights go haywire.
World Nomads
In contrast, World Nomads has a strong suite of trip protection options.
They cover trip cancellations, delays, and interruptions, which can save you from eating the cost of non-refundable bookings if your plans suddenly change.
Personal Belongings
SafetyWing
Coverage for stolen or lost items is limited.
If your camera or laptop is a big part of your travels, you might need to look elsewhere for comprehensive protection.
That said, they do cover essentials like travel documents and basic personal items.
World Nomads
Offering broader coverage for stolen or lost items, World Nomads is a better choice if you’re travelling with pricey gear like cameras, laptops, or outdoor equipment.
Just be ready to provide receipts or proof of ownership if you need to make a claim.
TL;DR: If you’re a low-key traveller who prioritises affordable medical coverage, SafetyWing has you covered (literally).
But if you’re the kind of person who plans trips around adrenaline and wants peace of mind for every eventuality, World Nomads is your go-to.
Still undecided? Stick around for the final verdict! Next up, let’s look at costs to see which one is more affordable.
SafetyWing vs. World Nomads: Which Fits Your Budget?
Let’s count pennies. After all, you want to make sure you’re getting solid value for your hard-earned cash. Here’s how SafetyWing and World Nomads stack up when it comes to cost:
SafetyWing: Affordable and Flexible
SafetyWing operates on a subscription-based model, starting at just $45 per 4 weeks. This makes it a fantastic choice for long-term travellers or digital nomads who don’t have a fixed return date.
The pay-as-you-go setup is refreshingly flexible—cancel anytime, and you’re only charged for the time you’ve used.
- Deductibles: SafetyWing’s deductible is $250 per claim, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re the type to need coverage more than once in a trip.
- Hidden Fees: SafetyWing keeps things simple. What you see is what you pay. No sneaky charges here.
Who it’s best for: Travellers on a budget who value flexibility and aren’t planning on filing frequent claims.
Ready for unlimited adventure? Get travel insurance that covers over 150 activities and 190 destinations.
World Nomads: Pay Once, Play Hard
World Nomads uses a one-time payment system, like Rise & Shield, with pricing based on your destination, trip duration, and the activities you’ll be doing.
While it’s not the cheapest option, it’s designed to offer comprehensive coverage for short-term or adventure-packed trips.
- Deductibles: Deductibles vary depending on the type of claim, but they’re generally reasonable for the level of coverage provided.
- Hidden Fees: Again, pretty transparent. You’ll know exactly what’s covered and what’s not when you purchase.
Who it’s best for: Travellers planning a single trip packed with adventure or those who want the peace of mind of broader coverage.
But wait, there’s more ground to cover in this SafetyWing vs. World Nomads review. Next: flexibility.
How Flexible Are SafetyWing and World Nomads?
Flexibility is a big deal when it comes to travel insurance because life on the road rarely goes exactly to plan.
Whether it’s extending your stay in paradise or making a quick pit stop back home, the ability to adjust your coverage without jumping through hoops is a game-changer.
So, how do SafetyWing and World Nomads measure up?
SafetyWing: Like a Digital Nomad’s Best Friend
SafetyWing’s subscription model is as easygoing as your travel itinerary.
You pay every four weeks, and if your plans change, you can pause or cancel anytime with no penalties.
Need to take a break from travelling or switch gears? That is no problem. Just log into your account and adjust your coverage.
Here’s a standout perk: SafetyWing includes limited coverage for short visits to your home country.
For example, if you’re a nomad returning home for the holidays, you’re still protected for up to 30 days (or 15 days if you’re from the U.S.).
It’s not full-scale coverage, but enough for peace of mind during quick visits.
Ready for unlimited adventure? Get travel insurance that covers over 150 activities and 190 destinations.
World Nomads: Adventure-Ready with Built-In Flexibility
World Nomads doesn’t offer a subscription model, but it does provide plenty of flexibility within its one-time policies.
For example, you can extend your coverage mid-trip if you decide to keep the adventure going or tweak your policy details if your plans change.
While not as effortless as SafetyWing’s approach, it’s still a reliable option for adapting on the fly.
Here’s another important note.
Unlike SafetyWing, World Nomads doesn’t cover you once you’re back in your home country. This is important to remember if you frequently bounce between countries or plan extended stays back home.
Got that? Great. Let’s look at what other travellers are saying about both companies online.
What Travellers Are Saying: SafetyWing vs. World Nomads
Here’s what I dug up when I searched for some other online SafetyWing and World Nomads reviews:
SafetyWing
SafetyWing has a strong 4.0 out of 5 stars on TrustPilot, clearly a popular choice among digital nomads.
I found that users frequently praise its affordable pricing, flexible subscription model, and user-friendly sign-up process.
It’s particularly loved by digital nomads who value the ability to customise policies without worrying about hidden fees.
The simplicity and affordability make it a go-to for long-term travellers looking for reliable coverage.
That said, some users have expressed frustration with the claims process, citing occasional delays and communication gaps.
The good news?
SafetyWing has been actively improving its response times, with claims typically resolved within 7 to 10 business days.
On the customer service front, they receive high marks for their professionalism and 24/7 hotline support, ensuring you’re never left hanging, no matter where in the world you are.
World Nomads
World Nomads holds a 4.1 out of 5 stars rating on TrustPilot. I found a mix of positive and critical reviews.
Many travellers praise the ease of purchasing policies and the comprehensive coverage offered for a wide range of activities, making it a top choice for adventure seekers.
However, some users have raised concerns about the claims process, describing it as lengthy and occasionally frustrating.
High premiums for certain trips have also been a sticking point for budget-conscious travellers.
We’re learning quite a bit about SafetyWing and World Nomads travel insurance. Next, let’s look at some of their common pros and cons.
Ready for unlimited adventure? Get travel insurance that covers over 150 activities and 190 destinations.
SafetyWing vs. World Nomads: The Good and The Bad
Here’s the cold, hard truth: no one-size-fits-all travel insurance solution exists. Every provider has its ups and downs.
So, here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of SafetyWing and World Nomads. I hope this helps you weigh your options at a glance.
SafetyWing Pros and Cons
Pros
- Affordable subscription pricing: Starting at just $45 every 4 weeks, it’s a wallet-friendly choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
- Flexibility: Pause or cancel your policy anytime; perfect for those with unpredictable schedules.
- Home country coverage: Offers limited coverage during short visits home—something you don’t often see in travel insurance.
Cons
- Limited trip protection: Coverage for trip cancellations, delays, and interruptions is minimal, so if your travel plans are high-stakes, you might need supplemental insurance.
- Personal belongings coverage: Doesn’t fully protect expensive items like laptops or cameras, which could be a dealbreaker for tech-savvy travellers.
World Nomads Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extensive adventure sports coverage: With over 150 sports and activities covered, it’s ideal for adrenaline junkies and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Comprehensive trip protection: Covers cancellations, delays, and interruptions, giving you peace of mind for those unpredictable moments.
- Strong medical coverage: Includes higher limits for emergency medical care and evacuation, plus coverage for dental emergencies.
Cons
- Higher costs: The one-time payment structure can be pricey, especially for short-term trips or budget-conscious travellers.
- No home country coverage: Once you’re back home, your policy stops working, which could be a drawback for nomads making frequent visits.
If you’re a long-term traveller or digital nomad, SafetyWing is an affordable, flexible option, as long as you don’t need extensive trip protection or gear coverage.
On the other hand, if you’re packing your itinerary with high-octane adventures and want maximum coverage for activities and cancellations, World Nomads might be worth the extra cost.
So, are you ready for my conclusion to this SafetyWing vs World Nomads review? Let’s wrap this up.
SafetyWing or World Nomads: Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between SafetyWing and World Nomads ultimately depends on your travel style and priorities.
If you’re a budget-conscious nomad, SafetyWing’s affordable subscription model and flexibility are hard to beat.
Travellers with expensive gear will appreciate World Nomads’ robust coverage despite the higher cost.
For families or casual travellers, it’s a toss-up depending on your specific needs—SafetyWing’s affordability versus World Nomads’ broader trip protection.
But what if you’re an adventure-loving traveller looking for something different?
That’s where Rise & Shield comes in.
Our policies combine comprehensive coverage with minimal restrictions, designed to protect not only adventurers but also families and everyday explorers.
Whether you’re scaling mountains, hitting the slopes, or planning a relaxed family getaway, we’ve got your back every step of the way.
Ready for unlimited adventure? Get travel insurance that covers over 150 activities and 190 destinations.
