Which Program Is Right For You?

Whether you’re going to Europe for two weeks or planning an epic trip around the world, you need travel insurance.

Seriously.

I know, it’s not a fun topic to read about. And yes, it will add to your travel budget. But after nearly two decades on the road, I’ve learned the hard way how important travel insurance can be.

I’ve lost my luggage, burst an ear, and even been stabbed. Add in countless delayed and canceled flights and I’m out thousands upon thousands of dollars.

Fortunately, I had travel insurance. They were there to help me deal with problems and make sure I didn’t go broke paying emergency expenses.

These days, SafetyWing is my travel insurance company. I’ve been using them for years and have found their plans to be very affordable, their customer service fast and friendly, and their installation just what I need.

Currently, SafetyWing offers two programs for travelers:

• Nomad Insurance Essential
• Nomad Insurance Complete

While both programs are great, each is designed for specific types of travelers. In this post, I’ll explain what each plan includes and who it’s for so you can decide which plan is right for your next trip.

SafetyWing Essential Plan

This is a great travel insurance plan from SafetyWing. Designed for travelers who want the basics without breaking the bank. That’s the plan I use when I travel these days.

The program costs just $56.28 USD for 4 weeks (for guests aged 10-39). That is one of the lowest prices for reliable travel insurance. They are super competitive when it comes to prices.

For comparison, similar programs from other companies are double that (or more). The plan is suitable for travelers up to age 69, although travelers ages 60–69 will pay $196.84.

Here’s what the Essential plan covers at a glance:

• $250,000 for emergency treatment and hospitalization
• $100,000 medical deductible
• $250,000 car accidents
• Up to $3,000 for lost baggage ($500 per item)
• $10,000 for evacuation due to political unrest
• $5,000 for travel disruption
• $200 for travel delay ($100 per day for two days)

They also have three useful additions:

• Installation of adventure games
• Cover if you travel to the US
• Installation of electronic equipment theft

Since not everyone needs these, I like that they are available as add-ons. Personally, I always need more electronics, but I never need adventure games since I’m more of an adrenaline junkie. I love that I can customize the schedule to fit my travel plans/travel style.

Whose master plan is it?

The main SafetyWing system is great for most travelers. Here are the types of travelers I think the policy is best for:

Backpackers – I think the Essential plan is the best travel insurance plan for budget travelers. That’s what I use when I travel these days because it balances accessibility and availability. With just a few bucks a day it won’t break the bank and can handle all the most critical emergencies.

Budget & Midrange Travelers – If you are going to Europe for a few weeks or going to the Caribbean for a relaxing vacation, this program is for you. It balances costs with emergency cover, and some coverage for things like delays and cancellations.

SafetyWing Complete Plan

The Complete Plan is insurance for digital travelers, remote workers, and long-term travelers. It’s a combination of your standard emergency coverage (like the priority plan above) but also includes “regular” non-emergency coverage.

Therefore, the program not only covers things like emergency injuries and illnesses but also regular visits and preventive care. It represents the type of health insurance you can get in your country, which ensures that you are taken care of no matter what happens.

The program costs $150.50 for 4 weeks (for visitors aged 18–39). Available to travelers up to the age of 64.

Here’s a look at what the plan covers in case of an emergency:

• $1,500,000 in coverage for medical emergencies
• $100,000 medical deductible
• $1,500,000 car accidents
• Up to $3,000 for lost baggage ($500 per item)
• $10,000 for evacuation due to political unrest
• $5,000 for travel disruption
• 150 per day for travel delays (up to three days), $60 for delays of more than three hours
• $100,000 for accidental death

In general, the emergency coverage of this program is similar to the priority program, but it is expanded and has higher limits.

Here’s a look at the plan’s additional “regular health care” coverage:

• $5,000 for doctor visits (dermatologist, gynecologist, etc.)
• $300 for a standard inspection
• 10 visits to a psychologist or psychiatrist per year
• $1,500,000 for cancer treatment
• $2,500 for maternity care
• $5,000 for medical treatment
• $5,000 in stolen property

As you can see, the complete system is much stronger than the critical system. It’s the plan I wish I had when I started backpacking full time because it’s perfect. If I were working remotely overseas full time, this is the program I would use.

Additionally, new conditions such as diabetes or asthma are covered under a comprehensive plan (under Essential, they become pre-existing conditions). That’s not something that many other companies offer, which I think is a huge plus.

One important difference between the comprehensive and essential plans, however, is that, unlike standard travel insurance, applicants for Nomad Insurance Complete must be approved. You can’t just buy a plan and be on your way to happiness, as the insurance team needs to review your application, as well as any medical history and/or pre-existing conditions. They may also ask for additional medical documentation or documentation.

Although I don’t like that some people can be tested and you can just buy a plan with a click and be on your way, I understand the concept given the cost of health care around the world.

Whose Perfect Plan?

The complete SafetyWing system is suitable for three types of travelers:

Long Term Travelers – If you plan to travel for a year or more, this is the plan for you. It will ensure that you receive help in emergencies, as well as routine check-ups. And higher limits of delay and cancellation coverage are required for frequent travelers.

Digital Nomads – If you’re going to travel and work, you’ll want emergency coverage with a higher limit. Good health coverage that includes a comprehensive plan is also a good deal.

Expats – If you’re living abroad for part (or all) of the year, you’ll want access to both emergency care and regular check-ups. An exit cover is also necessary if you live in turbulent areas.

I never leave home without travel insurance. For just a few dollars a day, you not only ensure that you are not destroyed in the event of an emergency, but you will also gain peace of mind knowing that you have help and support if something does happen.

Whether you’re a budget traveler looking for a basic plan or a seasoned digital maven in need of solid healthcare, SafetyWing has you covered.

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