- The best Round-the-world travel insurance plans
- What is Round-the-world travel insurance?
- The price of Round-the-world travel insurance
- What does Round-the-world travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of Round-the-world travel insurance
- Why take out Round-the-world travel insurance?
- How to choose the right Round-the-world travel insurance?
- Do my current insurance policies cover Round-the-world travel?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Round-the-world travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Round-the-world insurance is specialized coverage for long-term, multi-destination international trips, lasting several months to over a year.
2. Price: A six-month round-the-world policy for a single traveler can range from approximately $800 to $1,200 USD.
3. Coverage: It typically covers major medical emergencies and evacuation but often excludes pre-existing conditions and non-emergency care.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Your US health plan (Medicare, etc.) and credit cards offer little to no coverage for extended international travel.
5. Tips: Verify the policy allows for itinerary changes and has high medical evacuation limits, especially for remote destinations.
6. Other useful info: Many countries require proof of sufficient medical insurance coverage for long-stay visas or entry.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best Round-the-world travel insurance.
The best Round-the-world travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best Round-the-world travel insurance options available for residents of the United States.
These contracts are known for their high coverage limits, low deductibles and clear policy terms, offering dependable protection for extended worldwide journeys.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 0.3M $ | None mentioned |
|
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 0.3M $ | None mentioned |
|
| Tourist Card | 0.2M $ | 33 $, 68 $ for USA/Canada |
|
| World Travel | 0.3M $ (USA/Canada), 0.14M $ (others) | 55 $ per claim |
|
| Globe Partner | 0.14M $ | None mentioned |
|
| Globe Traveller | 0.2M $ | None mentioned |
|
- Covers emergency evacuation and repatriation.
- Flexible for changes in itinerary.
- Includes 24/7 teleconsultation.
- Quick claims process.
- Multilingual support 24/7.
- Sports and adventure activities insured.
- Immediate hospital payment.
- Extension possible during travel.
- Medical evacuation included.
- Emergency dental coverage.
- Refundable in case of visa refusal.
- Facilities for digital nomads.
- Adventure sports included.
- Psychological support available.
- Missing passport assistance.
- Political evacuation if required.
- Suits under-40s price-wise.
- Only online enrolment.
- Real-time claims updates by email.
- Up to 12 months one trip.
- No price increase after age 60.
- Multilingual helpline and support.
The best Round-the-world travel insurance depends on each traveler’s plans and needs. Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find your best option and subscribe online.
Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareWhat is Round-the-world travel insurance?
Round-the-world travel insurance is specialized long-term coverage for journeys across multiple countries over several months or years. It is designed to protect travelers continuously during extended global trips, covering medical emergencies, trip interruptions, lost belongings, and more.
This insurance is essential for those taking gap years, digital nomads, or anyone planning an extended world tour.
Round-the-world travel insurance differs from single-trip or short-term policies by offering higher limits, broader scope, and flexibility for changing itineraries and extended stays.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out Round-the-world travel insurance is especially important for travelers from the United States:
- For trips lasting six months or more across multiple continents.
- When your US health plan offers no coverage internationally.
- If your long-term itinerary is flexible or subject to change.
- To cover high-cost medical emergencies and potential medical evacuation.
- When participating in adventure sports or other high-risk activities.
- For protection in countries with vastly different healthcare systems.
- If traveling with expensive electronics like laptops or cameras.
The price of Round-the-world travel insurance
On average, Round-the-world travel insurance costs between 7% and 12% of the total cost of your journey.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months traveling through Asia, Australia, and Europe | $10,000 | $700 to $1,200 |
| 12 months exploring South America, Africa, Asia, Europe | $20,000 | $1,400 to $2,400 |
| 18 months visiting all continents and 25 countries | $35,000 | $2,450 to $4,200 |
| 2 years, extended tour with remote destinations worldwide | $50,000 | $3,500 to $6,000 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your Round-the-world travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: longer journeys result in higher insurance costs.
- destinations covered: travel in countries with high medical expenses or specific risks can increase the premium.
- traveler’s age: older travelers usually pay more for coverage.
- coverage amount: higher medical limits, personal belongings protection, and evacuation features add to the price.
- planned activities: coverage for adventure sports or high-risk activities may raise the overall cost.
What does Round-the-world travel insurance cover?
Round-the-world travel insurance is designed to provide long-term coverage for extensive journeys that span several countries and months. It offers protection for medical care, emergencies, trip interruptions, and personal property throughout your entire trip. This insurance is specifically tailored to the unique needs and risks of extended international travel.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🛑 Trip cancellation | Key guarantee. Refunds costs if you must cancel your journey before departure. | You should have at least $5,000 coverage and deductibles under $75. Cancellations for change of mind, pre-existing events, or unapproved reasons are excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refund for unused parts of your journey if you must cut it short. | Minimum $2,000 recommended and deductible below $75. Voluntary returns, non-emergency family issues, or prior-known events are usually not covered. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss/theft | Compensation for bags and personal effects lost, stolen, or damaged. | Choose at least $2,500 cover, deductible under $40. Unattended bags, cash, or valuables above policy limits are often excluded. |
| 🕒 Missed connection | Reimburses new travel or accommodation if you miss a flight or transport connection. | Minimum $500 coverage, and no deductible. Delays under 6 hours or due to personal errors are usually not insured. |
| 🏥 Emergency medical | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent care during your trip if you get sick or injured. | Look for $500K or higher, deductible no more than $50. Routine checkups, planned treatments, or exclusion of pre-existing conditions are standard exclusions. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation | Key guarantee. Pays for transport to a suitable hospital or back to the US if medically necessary. | End-to-end cover over $500K advised, and no deductible. Not valid for non-urgent needs, refused repatriation, or costs not pre-authorized by your insurer. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental | Pays for sudden, unexpected dental care during your trip. | Minimum $500 coverage, deductible under $30. Cosmetic, orthodontic, or planned care are not included. |
| 🧑⚖️ Personal liability | Covers damages or injury you cause to others during your journey. | Suggested minimum $1M coverage, deductible under $200. Family disputes, claims from vehicle use, or criminal acts are excluded. |
| 🏄♂️ Adventure sports | Covers injuries during activities like diving, hiking, or surfing, if included. | Ensure $100K minimum for sporting incidents and confirm your specific activities are covered. Racing, professional sports, and non-approved activities may be excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance | Pays for lawyer fees or bail if you face legal issues abroad. | $5,000 for legal aid and $10,000 for bail is suggested. Alcohol- or drug-related incidents, intentional harm, or fines are not usually covered. |
Cancellations for change of mind, pre-existing events, or unapproved reasons are excluded.
Voluntary returns, non-emergency family issues, or prior-known events are usually not covered.
Unattended bags, cash, or valuables above policy limits are often excluded.
Delays under 6 hours or due to personal errors are usually not insured.
Routine checkups, planned treatments, or exclusion of pre-existing conditions are standard exclusions.
Not valid for non-urgent needs, refused repatriation, or costs not pre-authorized by your insurer.
Cosmetic, orthodontic, or planned care are not included.
Family disputes, claims from vehicle use, or criminal acts are excluded.
Racing, professional sports, and non-approved activities may be excluded.
Alcohol- or drug-related incidents, intentional harm, or fines are not usually covered.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the round-the-world travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of Round-the-world travel insurance
Round-the-world travel insurance is only valid if several essential conditions are met before and during your journey.
- Timing of purchase: you must buy the policy before leaving the United States, typically before the first departure date.
- Residency requirement: you must be a legal resident of the United States when subscribing to the policy.
- Trip duration compliance: your trip length must not exceed the policy’s maximum limit, often from 6 months to 2 years.
- No ongoing travel at purchase: you must not already be abroad when buying the Round-the-world coverage.
- Continuous cover: you must not return to the United States or interrupt your trip for an extended period unless stated in the contract.
- Country restrictions: your destinations must not include countries under official travel bans or severe advisories by the US Department of State.
- Incident notification: you must notify your insurer quickly in case of an incident, such as medical emergencies or theft.
- Supporting documentation: you must provide all required documents for your claims, such as medical reports, receipts, and official records.
Watch out!
A common pitfall: Round-the-world insurance is for travel *abroad*. It typically offers no or very limited medical coverage if you return to the U.S. for a visit during your trip. You must maintain separate domestic health insurance for any care needed back home.
Why take out Round-the-world travel insurance?
Long journeys covering several countries can expose you to unexpected accidents and illnesses with high treatment costs abroad.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to 100%, often from the first dollar |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Up to 100%, subject to limits in the policy |
| Consultation and treatment for an intestinal infection |
| Up to 100%, less deductible if any |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Partial reimbursement, typically up to policy limit |
- Europe: $300 to $500
- North America: $800 to $1,200
- Asia: $150 to $300
- Europe: $200 to $400
- North America: $600 to $1,000
- Asia: $100 to $250
- Europe: $150 to $300
- North America: $400 to $800
- Asia: $80 to $200
- Europe: $250 to $500
- North America: $600 to $1,200
- Asia: $100 to $300
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
Round-the-world travel insurance often includes trip cancellation or interruption, lost or delayed luggage, personal liability overseas, emergency evacuation, and 24/7 travel assistance. These features provide year-round protection across multiple destinations, helping you avoid unexpected financial risks during your world journey.
Good to know
Don't risk your adventure. Your domestic health insurance likely offers zero coverage overseas. A broken arm could cost thousands, and medical evacuation can exceed $100,000. A dedicated plan from a provider like Heymondo protects your health and savings, ensuring your trip of a lifetime stays that way.
How to choose the right Round-the-world travel insurance?
Plans for Round-the-world travel insurance can differ greatly in reimbursement amounts, deductibles, and terms. It is essential to compare based on your destinations, trip duration, planned activities, and any existing insurance you hold.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💵 Reimbursement limits | Large claims can arise over a long journey, especially with serious medical emergencies. | Prioritize medical limits of at least $250,000, especially when traveling outside North America or Europe. |
| 📉 Deductible | A high deductible can reduce the value of your coverage during emergencies. | Prefer deductibles under $200 for all medical or evacuation benefits to avoid out-of-pocket burdens. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Some guarantees are available only if you buy at the right time. | Buy before departure and understand rules on extensions, renewals, and early returns. |
| 🎂 Traveller’s age | Older travelers might pay more, or face coverage gaps or limits. | Check maximum age limits and whether medical coverage is reduced or restricted for certain ages. |
| 🗓️ Trip duration | Many plans cap journeys at a fixed length, affecting coverage and renewal. | Choose plans allowing 12 months (or more), and confirm how to extend from abroad. |
| 🌏 Geographic area | Worldwide trips mean varying risks, costs, and access to care. | Confirm all planned countries are included, and check for exclusions on war zones or sanctioned destinations. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Overlapping with credit card or health insurance may waste money or lower flexibility. | Review current coverage carefully to avoid paying for the same protection twice. |
| ⚽ Planned activities | Many adventure or sports activities are excluded without specific options. | List all risky activities and select plans with built-in or optional adventure sports coverage. |
| 🔄 Policy flexibility | Itineraries often change on world trips, so rigid policies create risks. | Seek flexible policies allowing free changes to travel dates or locations without penalty. |
Do my current insurance policies cover Round-the-world travel?
It is normal to wonder if existing insurance, such as credit card insurance or public health coverage, can provide adequate Round-the-world travel insurance, but unfortunately it is usually not sufficient.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Round-the-world travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare) | Never | Covers only emergencies in US, never abroad. Often capped at $0 for international care. Does not cover: repatriation, trip cancellation, lost baggage, liability, long-term global support. | Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 medical, repatriation, cancellation, and property loss in every country visited. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna) | Almost Never | May cover emergencies abroad, varying by plan, limits often $50,000–$500,000. Does not cover: trip interruption, baggage, evacuation, multi-country, or duration over 90 days. | Travel insurance is designed for $100,000+ worldwide, trip cancellation, baggage, and evacuation, valid for up to two years. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard) | Never | Limited to accidents, very basic medical or travel accident, up to $10,000. Does not cover: routine or emergency health, extended trips, repatriation, property protection, adventure activities. | Travel insurance pays up to $1,000,000, full trip, health, repatriation, and even coverage for adventure sports and long stays. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum) | Limited coverage | Trip cancellation/interruption and baggage: $10,000 and $3,000 per trip. Does not cover: medical, evacuation over 90 days, adventure, high-limit electronics, or liability. | Travel insurance offers $1,000,000 medical/evacuation and broad trip protection for round-the-world, even with long or complex itineraries. |
Does not cover: repatriation, trip cancellation, lost baggage, liability, long-term global support.
Does not cover: trip interruption, baggage, evacuation, multi-country, or duration over 90 days.
Does not cover: routine or emergency health, extended trips, repatriation, property protection, adventure activities.
Does not cover: medical, evacuation over 90 days, adventure, high-limit electronics, or liability.
Expert advice
Your credit card or health insurance may not cover trip interruptions for a relative's illness or death. Always read the fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is Round-the-world travel insurance mandatory?
Round-the-world travel insurance is mandatory for travelers visiting certain countries where proof of insurance is required for visa or entry, such as Schengen states, Russia, or Cuba. While not mandatory for all itineraries, it is strongly recommended for any extended multi-country journey. In situations like a medical emergency during a trekking trip in Southeast Asia, travel insurance can prevent significant out-of-pocket costs and logistical complications.
When is it recommended to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
The best time to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance is right after booking your flights or making your first payments for the trip. Buying early protects you against unforeseen events like illness or family emergencies before departure. Some benefits, such as trip cancellation coverage, are only valid if the insurance is bought shortly after your initial booking.
How do I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
1/ Compare plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find coverage suited to your journey.
2/ Check guarantees and exclusions carefully, with particular attention to the terms related to Round-the-world trips and policy duration.
3/ Purchase online through your chosen provider’s secure site.
4/ Receive the insurance certificate by email, which serves as proof for border crossings, embassies, and medical care.
Can I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance after starting my trip?
Some insurers allow you to purchase Round-the-world coverage after your departure, but options are limited and coverage may be reduced. Pre-existing events and illnesses before your policy start date are usually not covered. For maximum benefits and fewer exclusions, it is always better to secure your insurance before starting your journey.
How do I make a claim on Round-the-world travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s emergency or claims number as soon as possible and follow their process. Collect documentation such as medical reports, receipts, or airline confirmations that support your claim. Submit your claim online or by mail, depending on the provider, and keep copies for your records. Most insurers respond within a few weeks, but ensure you check time limits for submitting.
Does Round-the-world travel insurance cover adventure sports?
Many Round-the-world plans include coverage for a wide range of adventure sports, but the specific activities must be listed in your policy. Common inclusions are trekking, scuba diving, or skiing, but extreme sports like mountaineering or paragliding may require a specialist plan or policy upgrade. Always check the policy terms to confirm that your planned activities are covered.
Can I extend my Round-the-world travel insurance if my trip is longer than expected?
Several insurers offer the option to extend your coverage while you are still traveling, provided you notify them before your policy expires. Premiums will be adjusted based on the additional time and any changes in your itinerary. It is important to arrange extensions before the original coverage ends to avoid any gaps or loss of protection during your journey.
Is Round-the-world travel insurance mandatory?
Round-the-world travel insurance is mandatory for travelers visiting certain countries where proof of insurance is required for visa or entry, such as Schengen states, Russia, or Cuba. While not mandatory for all itineraries, it is strongly recommended for any extended multi-country journey. In situations like a medical emergency during a trekking trip in Southeast Asia, travel insurance can prevent significant out-of-pocket costs and logistical complications.
When is it recommended to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
The best time to purchase Round-the-world travel insurance is right after booking your flights or making your first payments for the trip. Buying early protects you against unforeseen events like illness or family emergencies before departure. Some benefits, such as trip cancellation coverage, are only valid if the insurance is bought shortly after your initial booking.
How do I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance?
1/ Compare plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find coverage suited to your journey.
2/ Check guarantees and exclusions carefully, with particular attention to the terms related to Round-the-world trips and policy duration.
3/ Purchase online through your chosen provider’s secure site.
4/ Receive the insurance certificate by email, which serves as proof for border crossings, embassies, and medical care.
Can I purchase Round-the-world travel insurance after starting my trip?
Some insurers allow you to purchase Round-the-world coverage after your departure, but options are limited and coverage may be reduced. Pre-existing events and illnesses before your policy start date are usually not covered. For maximum benefits and fewer exclusions, it is always better to secure your insurance before starting your journey.
How do I make a claim on Round-the-world travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s emergency or claims number as soon as possible and follow their process. Collect documentation such as medical reports, receipts, or airline confirmations that support your claim. Submit your claim online or by mail, depending on the provider, and keep copies for your records. Most insurers respond within a few weeks, but ensure you check time limits for submitting.
Does Round-the-world travel insurance cover adventure sports?
Many Round-the-world plans include coverage for a wide range of adventure sports, but the specific activities must be listed in your policy. Common inclusions are trekking, scuba diving, or skiing, but extreme sports like mountaineering or paragliding may require a specialist plan or policy upgrade. Always check the policy terms to confirm that your planned activities are covered.
Can I extend my Round-the-world travel insurance if my trip is longer than expected?
Several insurers offer the option to extend your coverage while you are still traveling, provided you notify them before your policy expires. Premiums will be adjusted based on the additional time and any changes in your itinerary. It is important to arrange extensions before the original coverage ends to avoid any gaps or loss of protection during your journey.
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