One of the most overlooked (and most important) aspects of long-term travel is health insurance. Whether you’re a digital nomad, slow traveler, or full-time wanderer, having the right coverage can protect your health, finances, and peace of mind.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to look for in a travel health insurance plan, the best options for remote workers abroad, and how to stay protected on the road—no matter where your passport takes you.
1. Why You Absolutely Need Travel Health Insurance
Traveling without insurance might seem like a way to save money—until something goes wrong. Accidents, illness, or emergencies can happen anywhere, and medical costs abroad can be unpredictable.
Without insurance, you may be responsible for:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgeries or hospital stays
- Medical evacuation or air transport
- Prescriptions and follow-up care
- Legal fees or third-party liability
Don’t risk going unprotected. Insurance gives you access to better care and financial security.
2. Understand the Difference: Travel Insurance vs. Health Insurance
Not all “travel insurance” is created equal. Some plans only cover trip delays, baggage loss, or cancellations—but not medical needs.
Two types you should know:
- Travel Health Insurance – covers emergency medical care, illness, and sometimes routine checkups.
- Global Health Insurance – full international health coverage, often used by expats or remote workers abroad long-term.
Choose based on how long you’ll be traveling and what kind of care you want.
3. Look for These Key Features in a Plan
Not all policies offer the same protection. When choosing a plan, check for:
✅ Emergency medical coverage (at least $100,000)
✅ Medical evacuation and repatriation
✅ Coverage in all countries you’ll visit
✅ COVID-19 coverage (still important!)
✅ 24/7 emergency assistance
✅ Prescription medication reimbursement
✅ Optional add-ons (e.g., adventure sports, dental)
Bonus: Some plans also include coverage for lost gear, trip interruption, or personal liability.
4. Consider Your Travel Style
Your destination, activity level, and risk tolerance all affect your insurance needs.
Questions to ask:
- Are you visiting high-cost countries like the U.S. or Japan?
- Will you be hiking, surfing, or motorbiking?
- Do you have pre-existing conditions?
- How long will you be on the road?
Someone doing yoga in Bali for a year needs a very different plan than someone backpacking across South America.
5. Best Insurance Providers for Long-Term Travelers
Here are some of the most trusted options in the digital nomad and travel community:
🌍 SafetyWing
- Monthly subscription style
- Covers COVID-19
- Easy to start and cancel anytime
- Affordable and flexible
- Great for digital nomads under 69
🌐 World Nomads
- Good for adventure travel
- Coverage for 150+ activities
- Available for residents of many countries
- Strong emergency and gear coverage
💼 IMG Global / Nomad Insurance
- Strong international network
- Customizable plans
- Available for both short and long-term stays
🧳 Insured Nomads
- Global medical and travel coverage
- Innovative features like mental health support
- Suitable for individuals, couples, and teams