SafetyWing vs World Nomads: Backpacker Insurance Review

SafetyWing vs. World Nomads – Which One’s Right for You?

Let’s cut through the fluff and get straight to it—when it comes to long-term travel insurance, the two biggest players are Safetywing and World Nomads. Or as I like to call them: David vs. Goliath.

If you’re just going on a quick getaway, picking travel insurance is easy. But when you’re packing up your life to roam the world for months (or years), you need real coverage in case things go sideways.

For digital nomads and long-term travelers, the companies are the go-to choices. Both have their perks and drawbacks, and I’m here to break them down for you—no boring insurance jargon, just the stuff that actually matters.

To make things super simple, I’ve put together a side-by-side comparison so you can easily figure out which one fits your travel style best. Let’s dive in!

World Nomads Vs SafetyWing (side by side comparison)

View the comparison table below to see what both companies offer.

	World Nomads	SafetyWing
What's Covered?	- Unexpected illness or injury abroad - Hospital, doctor, dental and prescription expenses - Emergency evacuation - Missed and delayed flights - Lost checked luggage and stolen or lost belongings (covering gear and tech) - Adventure activities	- Unexpected illness or injury abroad - Hospital, doctor, dental and prescription expenses - Emergency evacuation - Travel delays out of your control and lost checked luggage - Every 90 days of coverage abroad = 30 days of coverage in home country, unless U.S. which is 15 days
What's Not Covered?	- Routine check-ups and preventative care - Pre-existing conditions - Cancer treatment	- Routine check-ups and preventative care - Pre-existing conditions - Some adventure sports and activities
Where Are You Covered?	Worldwide	Everywhere but North Korea, Cuba and Iran
Is Equipment Covered?	Yes - Smartphones - Computers & Laptops - iPads & Tablets - Camera and camera gear	No, unless it’s lost checked luggage
Excess/Deductible	$100 USD per event claimed, except Emergency Medical Evacuation & Repatriation expenses	$250 USD per policy
Adventure Sports Coverage	Yes (more covered with Explorer package)	Some, but not most
Buying Coverage	Buy coverage abroad and extend as much as you need while traveling	Buy coverage abroad and extend as much as you need while traveling
U.S. Coverage	Yes	Can pay for additional U.S. coverage, otherwise U.S. residents get 15 days of coverage for every 90 days of coverage abroad
Monthly Price	About $120 USD/4 weeks (depending on package)	About $37 USD/4 weeks (depending on age)
	Your Link Text	SafetyWing

Keep reading for more of a deep dive on both companies.

But...Do I even need travel insurance?

The short answer? YES! 100% YES!

Now, ask yourself—what if something goes wrong? A jellyfish sting, a scooter crash, a killer snake bite (yep, those exist), or even some mysterious tropical virus that has you Googling symptoms at 3 AM. The list of potential travel mishaps is endless!

Let’s talk about Thailand for a sec. I can’t tell you how many people I saw wipe out on scooters there—it’s almost a rite of passage. But here’s the scary part: over 5,000 people die from motorcycle accidents in Thailand every year. And if you’re not used to driving on the left side of the road? Well… let’s just say the odds aren’t exactly in your favor.

Now, here’s the kicker—as a digital nomad, your risk of an accident skyrockets because you’re constantly on the move. And with all the gear, flights, and expenses already on your plate, why take the gamble?

Let me be brutally honest—when you’re traveling, anything can happen, at any time, and usually when you least expect it. If you’ve ever been on the road long-term, you already know what I mean. What if you had a medical emergency? Could you afford that bill?

Luckily, companies these companies have your back. They offer solid travel insurance options that can literally save you thousands if (or when) things go sideways.

Don’t be that person who thinks, “I’ll be fine,” only to end up crowdfunding their hospital bill. Get covered. Travel smart. Keep the adventure going.

Do They Really Cover Everything?

If you’re a digital nomad or long-term traveler, having the right travel insurance isn’t just important—it’s non-negotiable. Thankfully, these companies have made it ridiculously easy with their flexible plans.

Now, let’s be real—no two insurance companies are exactly the same, but at the end of the day, they both have one mission: making sure travelers are covered where it actually matters.

Is There an Insurance Plan That Covers EVERYTHING?

Short answer? YES! Both companies offer what’s known as “hybrid plans”—basically, you pay as you go (kind of like Netflix or Spotify) while getting coverage for accidents, health emergencies, and all those unpredictable travel mishaps. This is a game-changer for the travel industry.

Breaking It Down (Because Insurance Talk Can Be a Headache)

Most standard travel insurance covers things like:

✅ Flight cancellations & trip interruptions

✅ Lost, stolen, or damaged luggage

But what about health coverage? That’s where these two really shine. They step it up by covering:

🏥 Hospital stays & medical emergencies

🚑 Air ambulances & emergency evacuations

💊 Medications if you get sick

Oh, and here’s something digital nomads will love—both companies cover your belongings too. So if someone snatches your camera or laptop, you won’t be out thousands of dollars.

That said, don’t skimp on medical coverage—because as the saying goes, “health is wealth.”

So, let’s give a big thank you to these companies for finally giving us insurance that actually makes sense. Whether you’re hopping borders, working from a beach, or living out of a backpack, you can travel with peace of mind knowing you’re covered.

Note: Always make sure to check the fine print when purchasing your travel insurance (most have a deductible to pay).

Things To Look For When Buying Travel Insurance

When checking out different insurance options, there are a few key things you need to keep an eye on—because not all plans are created equal! SafetyWing & World Nomads are two of the biggest names for digital nomads and long-term travelers, but how do you know which one’s right for you?

Let’s break it down so you can travel smart and stay covered.

Always choose a policy that covers the following:

Hospital room and board
Emergency evacuation
Local ambulance
Outpatient care
Crisis response in case of emergency (terrorism, kidnapping, etc)
Natural disaster coverage
Return of remains
Adventure activities
Emergency medical and dental treatment

Most of these perks come standard in travel insurance, but here’s the catch—some plans have sneaky limitations, especially when it comes to adventure activities like scuba diving, bungee jumping, or anything that gets your adrenaline pumping.

And here’s a pro tip—ALWAYS choose a company that offers 24/7 global assistance. Whether you’re stranded in Bali with food poisoning or need help after a scooter crash in Thailand, you want someone ready to assist you—anytime, anywhere.

That’s why comparing insurance companies is key—they both offer solid coverage, but the details matter depending on your travel style. So, pick wisely and keep the adventure going!

World Nomads Vs SafetyWing...(which one to choose)

Let’s be real—the days of stressing over travel insurance are over. With these companies, getting the right coverage has never been easier or more affordable. That means more money to spend on delicious street food and adventurous experiences (hello, new memories!).

SafetyWing is perfect for both long-term and short-term travelers, so whether you’re taking a quick family getaway or heading off for months of wanderlust, they’ve got you covered. Because let’s face it, unexpected stuff happens when you’re on the road.

And here’s the kicker—flexibility. Forgot to grab insurance before you left home? No worries, you can still buy coverage on the go (no need to be back in your home country!). Plus, if you don’t want long-term coverage, that’s cool—but if you need to extend your plan, it’s as easy as clicking a button.

So whether you’re all about short trips or planning to roam the world for months, SafetyWing & World Nomads have got the flexibility and coverage you need to keep the adventure rolling!

As world travelers, we’re lucky to have two solid options for travel insurance. Both companies give us that sweet peace of mind while we’re out exploring the globe.

Now, they share a common goal—to provide flexible, affordable coverage for those always on the move. But here’s the thing—each one has its own vibe when it comes to policies, prices, and coverage. So it’s definitely worth comparing them to see which one fits your travel style best.

Check out the breakdown below to help you make the smartest choice for you (and your travel crew). Let’s dive in!

World Nomads Travel Insurance: Things To Note

When it comes to travel insurance, both offer solid options, and here’s a quick breakdown of what World Nomads brings to the table. They essentially have two plans—the Standard Plan and the Explorer Plan. The Standard Plan covers all the basics you’ll need, while the Explorer Plan is for those who like to push the envelope with a little more adventure.

Here’s what both plans cover:

Emergency medical expenses abroad – hospital stays, dental treatment, prescriptions, medical evacuation, and emergency transport.

Gear protection – lost, stolen, or damaged gear, plus your passport and travel docs.

Travel delays – including missed, delayed, or canceled flights.

200+ adventure activities – including motorbike and scooter accidents.

U.S. coverage – Yes, if you’re a U.S. citizen, you’re covered!

What’s Not Covered?

Pre-existing conditions – if you’ve been treated for or showed symptoms of something.

Routine check-ups and preventative care

Cancer treatment

Where Are You Covered?

Where you’re covered depends on your country of residence, but in most cases (especially if you’re a U.S. resident), you get worldwide coverage.

How Long Does Coverage Last?

World Nomads is super flexible—you can choose the dates you’ll be traveling and get coverage accordingly. Need to extend your plan? No problem, you can do that while you’re already on the road!

How Much Does World Nomads Cost?

Now, the question we’ve all been waiting for—how much does it cost? Generally, the price is around $120 USD per month, but it depends on where you’re traveling, your country of residence, and which plan you pick.

Ready to take the plunge? Get a free quote to see how much your coverage would be or head to their website for more details.

Why Buy Travel Insurance from World Nomads?

So, why should you choose World Nomads for your travel insurance? Well, let me break it down for you:

✅ Backed by experts – They’ve teamed up with top-tier insurers and global assistance partners, so you’re in good hands no matter where you are.

✅ Buy online—whenever – Even if you’ve already kicked off your trip, you can still snag coverage online. No need to stress if you forgot to buy before leaving.

✅ Flexible coverage on the go – Need more coverage? Want to file a claim? You can handle it all while traveling, no hassle.

✅ Adventure sports? No problem! – Whether you’re into scuba diving, bungee jumping, or any other adventure sport, they got your back.

✅ Give back – When you choose World Nomads, you’re helping fund community development projects around the world. It’s a win-win!

When comparing the two, World Nomads shines in flexibility and coverage, especially if you’re all about adventure. Ready to travel smart? Get covered today!

Note: All of the information provided about travel insurance is a brief summary only. It does not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, and termination provisions of the travel insurance plans described. Coverage may not be available for residents of all countries, states, or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage.

SafetyWing Travel Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

With its affordable and flexible options, SafetyWing is a solid alternative—especially if you’re looking for something a bit lighter on coverage. But here’s the thing: depending on what you need, SafetyWing can be a game changer! If you’re after something that fits your travel style, this company might just be the perfect match.

Want to know which one is right for you? Keep reading for the full breakdown of all the details!

What’s Covered?

When it comes to SafetyWing, they’ve got your back with solid coverage for those unexpected travel hiccups. Here’s what you’ll get:

✅ Emergency & Medical Coverage – Whether you’re dealing with an illness or injury, you’re covered for hospital stays, doctor visits, prescriptions, and even emergency medical evacuation.

✅ Lost Luggage & Travel Delays – Flight delayed or luggage lost? No worries, you’re covered for those travel nightmares outside your control.

✅ Home Country Coverage – For every 90 days of travel, you get 30 days of coverage back home (unless you’re in the U.S., in which case, it’s 15 days).

What’s Not Covered?

Like everything, there are a few things that aren’t included, so here’s the lowdown:

❌ Routine Check-ups & Preventative Care – Not part of the deal.

❌ Pre-existing Conditions – If you’ve already got symptoms or have been treated, you’re on your own for that.

❌ Expensive Electronics – Sorry, your laptop, GoPro, iPad, camera, and lenses aren’t covered.

❌ Limited Sports & Adventure Coverage – You’re not fully covered for extreme activities.

Where Are You Covered?

SafetyWing offers worldwide coverage except for North Korea, Cuba, and Iran. Oh, and if you’re heading to the U.S., it’ll cost you an extra $31 for four weeks of coverage.

How Long Does Coverage Last?

Here’s the cool part: SafetyWing operates on a flexible pay-as-you-go system, giving you coverage for four weeks(28 days) at a time. After that, it automatically renews every 28 days until you decide to cancel. No long-term commitment! You can stay covered for up to a year, then just grab another package if needed.

How Much Does SafetyWing Cost?

Affordable? Absolutely! Depending on your age and whether you need U.S. coverage, you can get covered for as low as $40 USD per month. Now that’s a steal!

Looking for something more comprehensive or specialized? We’ve got all the comparisons you need to make the best choice for your travel plans!

Pros & Cons

Yes…here they come. The good old pros and cons! Let’s start with SafetyWing.

The pros for SafetyWing are:

Affordability and flexibility.

If you’re a budget traveler then SafetyWing will do just fine. At 40$ per month, it won’t break the bank, so you can spend your money on more plane tickets!

As for the downside of SafetyWing…. its U.S coverage is not the greatest if you’re thinking of spending a long time traveling around. Lastly, they do not have the best gear insurance, so if you have thousands of dollars in gear (laptop, camera) etc…

When it comes to World Nomads…

• Coverage anywhere in the world

• Gear protection for your tech and all that digital nomad gear

• Adventure sports and activities covered

• Two packages to suit your needs

The downside? It’s a bit pricier at around $120 per month, which might not be in everyone’s budget. But if you’re the kind of traveler who’s a little clumsy, always dropping your gear, or traveling with a ton of equipment (laptops, cameras, drones, you name it), then this options is definitely worth considering!

Still unsure? Don't take our word for it!
Check out real customer reviews to see how SafetyWing and World Nomads have helped travelers just like you!

Get an honest look at how each insurance plan stands up in real travel situations.

Conclusion: World Nomads Vs SafetyWing?

Both companies are top-notch options—it really comes down to what you need covered. SafetyWing is perfect for solo travelers on a quick trip, offering flexible and affordable coverage for a few weeks. On the other hand, World Nomads shines for digital nomads, especially if you’re traveling with a ton of gear—think drones, cameras, laptops, and all that tech. They cover your gear, while SafetyWing doesn’t.

At the end of the day, it’s all about your travel style and priorities. But one thing’s for sure—don’t hit the road without coverage. You never know what might pop up while you’re adventuring!

As you can tell, buying insurance can feel like a bit of a headache. But it really boils down to your travel style. Are you the adventurous type, always seeking thrills? If so, World Nomads is your go-to. But if you’re more of a laid-back traveler, just looking to explore new destinations and indulge in tasty food, then SafetyWing is perfect for you.

Bottom line: Don’t hit the road without travel insurance—better safe than sorry!