Are you wondering about health coverage while traveling abroad? In this article, we’ll cover options for health insurance as a digital nomad or frequent traveler. We’ll also go over the difference between primary health insurance and emergency coverage, so you can understand exactly what you need.
What to Consider When Looking for Health Insurance as a Digital Nomad
When searching for a plan, you’ll want to consider whether you want full health insurance (including routine checkups, screenings, and preventative care) or if you want to opt for emergency coverage only.
Emergency coverage is for unexpected illness or injury while traveling (and does not include routine doctor visits or preventative care).
It’s also important to check restrictions on your travel health insurance when you’re in your home country. For example, if you’re based in the US, some policies that cover “full time travel” may restrict the number of days in the US that you’re covered.
Options for Full Health Insurance for Digital Nomads
- Safety Wing Health Insurance – this for full health insurance coverage while traveling, including routine checkups and screenings, and preventative care.
- Allianz – offers a variety of options for expats or digital nomads
- IMG Global– provides long-term coverage to people living or working outside of their home country, typically for one year or longer. They state that their plans are ideal for expats and their families, individuals with dual residences, multinational employers, and more.
- Genki -offers options for short term travel health insurance, or long term international health insurance
Options for Emergency Health Coverage
- Safety Wing Emergency Coverage – for emergency coverage, including unexpected illness or injury. Also provides emergency travel-related benefits such as evacuation from local unrest, unplanned overnight stay and lost checked luggage. A popular choice amount digital nomads, with very affordable plans
- United Health Care – offers short term catastrophic coverage
Preparing to Travel
Wherever you’re headed, having peace of mind is a great accessory to bring along. With these options you can make sure you’re covered – no matter where your adventures may take you.
You may also want to check out some more helpful tips about how to choose a phone plan and how to get a permanent mailing address as a digital nomad.