One of the biggest challenges that full-time travelers like us face is finding reliable and affordable health insurance that suits our lifestyles. Whether we are hopping from one country to another, or staying in one place for a while, we need health insurance that can adapt to our needs and provide us with peace of mind.
Unfortunately, most traditional health insurance plans are not designed for this kind of flexibility and mobility. They often have limitations on the duration, destination, and type of coverage that they offer, and they may not cover pre-existing conditions, emergency evacuations, or preventive care.
That's why full-time travelers and digital nomads, like us, need a different kind of insurance: one that is global, comprehensive, and customizable. A product that allows us to choose where we want to receive treatment, how much we want to pay, and what benefits we want to include. A product that follows us wherever we go, and that supports our adventurous and independent lifestyle.
Understanding your travel and health insurance needs can be a bit of a headache, but it's important to find a suitable product that fulfills your specific travel and health insurance requirements. This is why we revisit this topic every year, as the available travel and health insurance products keep evolving as do one's specific requirements
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SafetyWing’s Nomad Health — the ultimate health insurance for travelers like us — has just upped the game, and here's why you should be excited.
Full health coverage, ensuring you're protected no matter where you roam.
Access to vaccines and regular screenings to help you detect issues early and stay in peak form.
Dental care including routine cleanings and fillings, & vision benefits with reimbursements for new lenses or contacts each year
Virtual therapy visits in your native language to keep your mental health in check during your adventures.
Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, dietitians, osteopaths, and more.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Nomad Health if I have public health insurance in my country of residence?
You don’t need it, but you may want it! With Nomad Health you can see any doctor or hospital, public or private, so you can skip those public waitlists. Plus, you also get vision, dental and mental health benefits that may not be available to you with your public health insurance.
Can I use Nomad Health in any country?
Can I add my family members?
How do I make claims and get reimbursed for medical expenses?
Do I need to provide proof of travel or international residence to be eligible?
What is the waiting period before my coverage starts?
Does Nomad Health offer coverage for maternity and childbirth expenses?
What is the coverage duration for each policy term?
If you are a full-time traveler or an expat, you may face some health and safety challenges that require your ongoing attention and preparation.
Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and safe on your journey
Have reliable health insurance. One of the most important things you can do is to have a health insurance plan that covers you abroad, especially for hospitalization and emergency evacuation. Some countries may require proof of health insurance for entry or visa purposes, and some may not have adequate healthcare facilities or standards. You don't want to be stuck with a huge medical bill or unable to get the care you need in case of an illness or injury. You can look for expat health insurance plans that offer comprehensive coverage and flexibility for your needs.
Get vaccinated and regularly check your health status. Before you leave, make sure you are up to date on all your routine vaccines, as well as any destination-specific ones. You should also visit your healthcare provider at least a month before your departure to get a check-up and any prescriptions or medicines you may need. If you have any pre-existing conditions or allergies, make sure you have a medical alert bracelet or card with you at all times.
Avoid bug bites and drink safe water. Depending on where you travel, you may encounter insects that can transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue, yellow fever, or Zika. To avoid bug bites, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and sleep under a mosquito net if needed. You should also avoid drinking tap water or ice cubes unless you are sure they are safe. You can use water disinfection tablets, filtration systems, boil water, or buy bottled water to prevent diarrhea and other waterborne illnesses.
Choose safe transportation and be alert. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among healthy travelers, so always wear a seat belt and use car seats for children. If you drive, be familiar with the local traffic rules and road conditions, and avoid driving at night or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you use public transportation, such as buses, trains, or taxis, make sure they are licensed and reputable, and avoid overcrowded or poorly maintained vehicles. Be alert when crossing the street, especially in countries where people drive on the left side of the road.
Research your destination and follow local laws. Before you go, learn about the health risks, safety concerns, cultural norms, and legal issues of your destination country. You can check the websites of the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the US Department of State for travel advisories and recommendations. You should also respect the local customs, dress codes, and etiquette, and avoid any political or religious conflicts or demonstrations. Follow the local laws and regulations, and avoid any illegal activities such as drugs, gambling, or prostitution.
By following these tips, you can reduce your health and safety risks and enjoy your full-time travel or expat experience.
PLEASE NOTE:
We do not make any recommendations for you, every person’s situation is different and needs to be evaluated as such. This is merely a discussion about certain aspects to take into consideration for you to arrive at the best solution for yourself. We are not paid to endorse any insurance over another and do not represent SafetyWing. However, we are an affiliate partner for both World Nomads and SafetyWing and we might receive a small fee when you get a quote or sign up for one of their products. This article is not a recommendation to buy any specific product and we are in no way partial to your choice. You should always consider your individual needs and risk profile - what will work for you may not work for everyone and we do not endorse or recommend any specific provider or product over any other.
Also, note that some of the links above may be affiliate links and at no additional cost to you,
we may earn a commission if you end up making a purchase and the income goes to keeping the site ad-free.
