Travel insurance: Insured Nomads vs. SafetyWing comparison

Travel insurance is an essential consideration for anyone planning to travel, whether for a short vacation or a long-term adventure. With numerous options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. This article compares two popular travel insurance providers, Insured Nomads and SafetyWing, to help you make an informed decision. We'll delve into their coverage, costs, flexibility, customer support, and more.

Key Takeaways

• SafetyWing offers both travel and medical insurance, making it a comprehensive option for travelers.
• Insured Nomads and SafetyWing target different audiences, with SafetyWing catering more to long-term travelers and digital nomads.
• Both providers offer 24/7 customer support, but user experiences may vary.
• Cost and coverage flexibility are key differentiators between Insured Nomads and SafetyWing.
• Reading user reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of each provider.

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Overview of Insured Nomads and SafetyWing

Company Backgrounds

Insured Nomads is a relatively new player in the travel insurance market, focusing on providing comprehensive coverage for digital nomads and remote workers. They aim to offer a seamless experience for those who live a location-independent lifestyle. On the other hand, SafetyWing, often referred to as Nomad Insurance, has quickly become a go-to choice for many digital nomads and remote workers worldwide. Established with the mission to build a global safety net for freelancers and entrepreneurs, SafetyWing offers a flexible, subscription-based model that allows you to start, pause, or cancel your insurance plan as per your travel needs.

Target Audience

Both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing cater primarily to digital nomads, remote workers, and frequent travelers. However, Insured Nomads also extends its services to expatriates and long-term travelers, making it a versatile option for a broader audience. SafetyWing, founded by nomads for nomads, focuses on providing affordable and flexible insurance solutions for those constantly on the move.

Key Features

Insured Nomads offers a range of features designed to meet the unique needs of their target audience. These include comprehensive travel medical insurance, emergency evacuation, and coverage for various travel-related incidents. SafetyWing, known for its affordability, provides coverage starting at $45.08 USD per 4 weeks. Their insurance plans cover both travel emergencies, like flight cancellations, and medical emergencies, including hospital visits and transportation to medical facilities. Additionally, SafetyWing offers 24/7 support, which is crucial for finding a doctor abroad.

Both companies aim to provide a safety net for digital nomads, but their approaches and specific offerings differ, making it essential to understand what each brings to the table.

Coverage Comparison: Insured Nomads vs SafetyWing

When comparing the coverage offered by Insured Nomads and SafetyWing, several key aspects come into play. Both companies provide comprehensive travel insurance, but there are notable differences in their offerings.

Medical Coverage

Insured Nomads offers extensive medical coverage, including emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and outpatient care. SafetyWing also provides robust medical coverage, but its affordability makes it a popular choice among digital nomads. SafetyWing's medical coverage includes emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and even COVID-19 treatment.

Travel Coverage

Insured Nomads covers a wide range of travel-related incidents, such as trip cancellations, delays, and lost luggage. SafetyWing, on the other hand, offers similar travel coverage but with a focus on long-term travelers. Their policies include trip interruption, travel delays, and lost checked luggage.

Emergency Services

Both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing offer emergency services, including medical evacuation and repatriation. However, Insured Nomads provides additional benefits like 24/7 emergency assistance and concierge services, which can be crucial during unexpected situations.

While both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing offer comprehensive coverage, the choice between them often comes down to specific needs and preferences. Insured Nomads is recognized for its extensive coverage, while SafetyWing is known for its affordability and focus on long-term travelers.

Insured Nomads Coverage

Please note — if you purchase insurance, your plan details may differ. This summary is indicative of prior Insured Nomads coverage, but should not be used for any actual decisions without first consulting the details of your particular plan.

Insured Nomads tends to have coverage that includes the following in its World Explorer travel plan.

Coverage Area Options

Worldwide, excluding US or Worldwide, including US

Maximum Benefit per Insured Person per Certificate Period

• Age 14 through 69: $250,000, $1,000,000 or $2,000,000
• Age 70 through 79: Including US ($50,000), Excluding US ($100,000)
• Age 80 and older: $20,000

Insured Nomads World Explorer Eligible Medical Expenses

• Benefit period of 90 days and benefit amount of "maximum" outside of one's home country and the USA and benefit of $5,000 in home country or in the USA)
• Incidental trip home of up to 15 days and 90 days of coverage for maximum benefit
• Acute onset of pre-existing condition from 14 days old to 64 years old up to maximum benefit of $1,000,000 whichever is less (excluding US) with Primary Insurance. Without Primary Insurance up to $20,000. Ages 65 through 69 $2,500 and no benefit for age 70 and older.
• Acute onset of pre-existing condition within the USA is $50,000 for those between 14 days and 69 years old and $10,000 for age 70 and older.
• Physician office visits/hospital visits/services within usual, reasonable and customary charges
• Urgent care centre or walk-in clinic visits/services within usual, reasonable and customary charges
• Outpatient facility charges
• Hospital room and board, including nursing, miscellaneous and ancillary services
• ICU
• Operating room, treatment room and recovery room
• Laboratory
• Radiology/x-rays
• Surgeon fees, anesthesiologist fees, and anesthesia
• Durable medical equipment
• Reconstructive surgery
• Physical therapy
• Ermergency room injury and illness
• Extended care facility
• Home nursing care
• Dental treatment to a maximum of $300 for palliative care only
• Accidents
• Emergency eye exams

Insured Nomads World Explorer Eligible Travel Expenses

• Local ambulance if insured is actually admitted to a hospital
• Interfacility ambulance transfer
• Emergency medical evaluation
• Emergency reunion ($100,000)
• Bedside visit ($1,500)
• Repatriation of mortal remains ($100,000)
• Local burial/cremation ($5,000)
• Return of minor child ($100,000)
• Trip interruption ($10,000)
• Natural disaster daily accommodations ($500 per day)
• Natural disaster evacuation ($25,000)
• Political evacuation and repatriation ($100,000)
• Emergency pet transportation ($1,000)

Insured Nomads World Explorer Lump Sum Benefits

• Accidental Death between $1,250 and $25,000 depending on age
• Accidental dismemberment: 50% of accidental death benefit for one limb or eye, and 100% for more than one
• Accidental death and dismemberment family maximum $250,000
• Common carrier accidental death (100% of accidental death benefit)
• Common carrier accidental death family maximum ($250,000)
• Hospital indemnity $250 per night

Insured Nomads World Explorer Personal Property and Liability

• Lost checked luggage: $50 per item up to a maximum of $500
• Combined personal liability limit: $25,000
• Covered sports equipment: $1,000
• Covered photography equipment: $1,000
• Covered electronics and communications equipment: $500
• Optional coverage is available for adventure sports and marine activities

SafetyWing Schedule of Benefits and Limits

• Overall Maximum Limit
  • Age 65 to 69: $100,000
  • All Others: $250,000
• Maximum per Injury/Illness
  • Same as the overall maximum limits per age category.
• Deductibles
  • $250 per certificate period.
• Coinsurance
  • Pays 100% of eligible expenses after the deductible, up to the overall maximum limit.

SafetyWing Coverage

Please consult individual plans which may differ from the norms and historical levels for median SafetyWing coverage discussed here.

SafetyWing Eligible Medical Expenses

• Hospital Room and Board: Average semi-private room rate, including nursing services.
• Intensive Care Unit: Up to the overall maximum limit.
• Local Ambulance: Usual, reasonable, and customary charges when hospitalization as an inpatient is necessary.
• Emergency Room Co-payment: For illnesses unless admitted to the hospital, a $100 co-payment is required in the U.S.; no co-payment for injuries or for services outside the U.S.
• Urgent Care Center: $50 co-payment per visit in the U.S.; no co-payment required outside the U.S.
• Outpatient Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Care: Up to $50 maximum per day, ordered in advance by a physician.

SafetyWing Emergency Benefits

• Emergency Medical Evacuation: Up to $100,000 lifetime maximum.
• Repatriation of Remains: Up to $20,000 lifetime maximum.
• Local Burial or Cremation: Up to $10,000 lifetime maximum.
• Crisis Response: Up to $10,000 including ransom, personal belongings, and response fees and expenses.

SafetyWing Additional Coverage

• Hospital Indemnity: $100 per day for inpatient hospitalization.
• Emergency Reunion: Up to $50,000, covering up to 15 days.
• Bedside Visit: Up to $1,500.
• Return of Minor Children: Up to $5,000.
• Pet Return: Up to $1,000.
• Political Evacuation: Up to $10,000 lifetime maximum.
• Trip Interruption: Up to $5,000.
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment: $25,000 for ages 18 through 69; $5,000 for under age 18.
• Common Carrier Accidental Death: $50,000 for ages 18 through 69; $10,000 for under age 18.

SafetyWing Miscellaneous Benefits

• Lost Checked Luggage: Up to $3,000 per certificate period; $500 per item.
• Travel Delay: Up to $100 a day after a 12-hour delay requiring an unplanned overnight stay.
• Lost or Stolen Passport/Travel Visa: Up to $100.
• Border Entry Protection: Up to $500 for denial at the U.S. border under specific visa conditions.
• Natural Disaster Replacement Accommodations: Up to $100 a day for 5 days.
• Emergency Quarantine Indemnity – COVID-19: $50 a day for up to 10 days, subject to conditions.

Cost Analysis: Insured Nomads vs SafetyWing

Premiums and Deductibles

When comparing the costs of Insured Nomads and SafetyWing, it's essential to look at both premiums and deductibles. SafetyWing offers a highly affordable option, with coverage starting at $45.08 USD per 4 weeks. On the other hand, Insured Nomads' pricing varies based on the plan and coverage level, but it generally tends to be higher than SafetyWing.

Payment Flexibility

Both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing offer flexible payment options. SafetyWing allows for monthly payments, making it easier for digital nomads to manage their budgets. Insured Nomads also provides flexible payment plans, but the specifics can vary depending on the chosen policy.

Value for Money

When evaluating value for money, it's crucial to consider what you get for the price you pay. SafetyWing is known for its cost-effectiveness, offering comprehensive coverage at a lower price point. Insured Nomads, while more expensive, provides a broader range of coverage options and additional benefits that might justify the higher cost for some users.

Ultimately, the choice between Insured Nomads and SafetyWing will depend on your specific needs and budget constraints. While SafetyWing is more budget-friendly, Insured Nomads offers more extensive coverage options.

Flexibility and Customization

Policy Adjustments

Both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing offer highly flexible policies that cater to the dynamic needs of travelers. Insured Nomads allows for extensive customization, enabling you to tailor your coverage to fit your specific requirements. On the other hand, SafetyWing operates on a subscription model, which means you can start, pause, or cancel your insurance plan as per your travel needs. This is particularly beneficial for digital nomads on a budget or those who prefer to have the flexibility to adjust their coverage as their travel plans change.

Duration of Coverage

Insured Nomads provides coverage options that can be adjusted based on the length of your trip, whether it's a short vacation or an extended stay. SafetyWing's subscription model also allows for flexible duration, making it easy to extend or shorten your coverage period without hassle. This flexibility is ideal for nomads who are not planning to come back home or are traveling full-time.

Geographical Flexibility

When it comes to geographical flexibility, both providers excel. Insured Nomads offers worldwide coverage, ensuring you're protected no matter where you go. SafetyWing also provides global coverage, making it a fantastic fit for the majority of travels. This is especially useful for those who frequently change locations and need a reliable insurance plan that adapts to their ever-changing itinerary.

The ability to customize and adjust your travel insurance plan is crucial for modern travelers, especially digital nomads who have unpredictable schedules and destinations.

Customer Support and Service

Availability

Both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing offer 24/7 customer support via email and phone. This ensures that travelers can get assistance at any time, regardless of their location or time zone.

Quality of Service

Customer service quality is a critical factor when choosing travel insurance. Insured Nomads is known for its personalized approach, often going the extra mile to resolve issues. SafetyWing, on the other hand, is praised for its quick response times and efficient problem-solving.

User Experience

The user experience for both companies is generally positive. Insured Nomads provides a comprehensive help center and community support, making it easy for users to find answers to common questions. SafetyWing offers a straightforward and user-friendly interface, which simplifies the process of managing policies and claims.

Excellent customer support can significantly enhance your travel experience, providing peace of mind and quick resolutions to any issues that may arise.

User Reviews and Testimonials

Positive Feedback

Insured Nomads and SafetyWing have garnered high ratings on Trustpilot, reflecting their strong customer satisfaction. Many users appreciate the comprehensive coverage and ease of use offered by both providers. Customers often highlight the responsive customer service and the peace of mind they get while traveling.

Negative Feedback

Despite the positive reviews, some users have expressed concerns. A few customers mentioned issues with claim processing times and the clarity of policy details. It's important to read the fine print and understand the terms to avoid any surprises.

Overall Satisfaction

Overall, both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing receive favorable reviews from their users. The majority of travelers find these insurance options reliable and valuable for their needs. However, individual experiences may vary, so it's crucial to assess your specific requirements before making a decision.

For over 10 years of world travel, many have found these insurance options worth the expense, but it's always wise to consider viable alternatives.

Additional Benefits and Perks

Unique Offerings

Both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing offer a range of unique benefits that cater to the needs of digital nomads and frequent travelers. Insured Nomads provides coverage for adventure sports, pet insurance, and accidental death and dismemberment. SafetyWing, on the other hand, includes natural disaster accommodations and airport lounge access for delayed flights.

Discounts and Promotions

Insured Nomads and SafetyWing frequently offer promotions to attract new customers. For instance, Insured Nomads may provide discounts for long-term policies, while SafetyWing often has introductory offers that include bonus points or reduced premiums for the first few months.

Extra Services

Both companies go beyond standard travel insurance by offering additional services. Insured Nomads includes 24-hour emergency medical care, COVID-19 coverage, and emergency dental treatment. SafetyWing offers $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, as well as $25,000 for accidental death and dismemberment.

When choosing between Insured Nomads and SafetyWing, consider the extra services and perks that align with your travel needs. These additional benefits can make a significant difference in your overall travel experience.

Pros and Cons of Insured Nomads

Advantages

• Low deductibles: Insured Nomads offers plans with low deductibles, including options for $0 deductibles.
• Variety of plans: They provide multiple plans tailored to different needs, such as the World Explorer plan for single trips and the World Explorer Multi for multiple trips within a year.
• Customization: Many customization options are available, even for travel to warzones.
• Easy sign-up: The online sign-up process is straightforward and user-friendly.
• Global availability: Plans are available to citizens of any country, not just the U.S.

Disadvantages

• Higher premiums: Some plans may come with higher premiums compared to other providers.
• Limited short-term options: Short-term coverage options might be limited compared to other insurers.
• Complex choices: The variety of plans and customization options can be overwhelming for some users.

Ideal Users

• Digital nomads: Ideal for digital nomads who travel frequently and need comprehensive coverage.
• Remote workers: Suitable for remote workers who may travel with valuable equipment like laptops and cameras.
• Expats: Great for expats who need reliable health and travel insurance while living abroad.

Insured Nomads is a versatile option for those who need flexible and comprehensive travel insurance, especially for global health insurance and travel medical insurance needs.

Pros and Cons of SafetyWing

Advantages

• Affordable Plans: SafetyWing offers basic insurance plans, known as "Nomad Insurance," at a fraction of the cost of many competitors.
• Customer Support: The company is praised for its efficient customer support and quick claim processing times.
• Flexibility: SafetyWing provides coverage that is easily extendable, making it ideal for long-term travelers.
• Global Coverage: The insurance covers you in almost every country, making it a versatile choice for digital nomads and frequent travelers.

Disadvantages

• Claims Process: Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with the claims process and coverage.
• Limited Coverage Options: The plans may not offer as comprehensive coverage as some other providers.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Coverage for pre-existing conditions is limited, which can be a drawback for some travelers.

Ideal Users

SafetyWing is best suited for digital nomads, expats, and long-term travelers who need affordable and flexible insurance options. It is run by nomads and expats who know exactly what such travelers need. If you are looking for basic coverage at a lower cost, SafetyWing could be the right choice for you.

SafetyWing has a "Great" rating of 4.2 out of 5 on TrustPilot, based on over 800 reviews at the time of writing.

Making the Choice: Which is Right for You?

Choosing the right insurance provider is a crucial aspect of your digital nomad journey. Each of these providers offers unique benefits tailored to the needs of remote workers and travelers. It's important to carefully weigh the pros and cons of each, considering your specific circumstances and preferences. By doing so, you'll have the peace of mind knowing that you're protected on your digital nomad journey.

Personal Needs Assessment

When deciding between Insured Nomads and SafetyWing, start by assessing your personal needs. Consider factors such as the type of activities you'll be engaging in, the destinations you'll be visiting, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Understanding your specific requirements will help you choose the most suitable plan.

Budget Considerations

Budget is often a significant factor in choosing travel insurance. Compare the premiums, deductibles, and overall costs of both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing. Create a table to visualize the cost differences:

Final Recommendations

After evaluating your needs and budget, make a final decision based on which provider aligns best with your lifestyle and travel plans. Remember, the best choice is the one that offers the most comprehensive coverage for your unique situation. Safe travels!

Conclusion

In conclusion, both SafetyWing and World Nomads offer robust travel insurance options tailored for digital nomads and frequent travelers. SafetyWing stands out for its affordability, flexibility, and comprehensive coverage, including both travel and medical emergencies. Its 24/7 support and user-friendly experience make it a preferred choice for many. On the other hand, World Nomads also provides extensive coverage and is a reliable option, though it tends to be slightly more expensive. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize cost, coverage, or customer support, both insurers have their unique strengths. Make sure to evaluate your travel plans and choose the insurance that best aligns with your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of coverage do Insured Nomads and SafetyWing offer?

Both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing offer travel and medical insurance. This includes coverage for travel emergencies like flight cancellations and medical emergencies such as hospital visits and transportation to medical facilities.

How do the costs of Insured Nomads and SafetyWing compare?

SafetyWing is generally more affordable compared to Insured Nomads. However, the cost can vary based on the specific coverage options and duration of the policy you choose.

Are there any unique features that set Insured Nomads apart from SafetyWing?

Insured Nomads offers more customizable plans tailored to individual needs, whereas SafetyWing is known for its affordability and user-friendly experience designed for digital nomads.

Can I purchase travel insurance from either company while already abroad?

Yes, both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing allow you to purchase or extend your travel insurance even if you are already abroad.

What kind of customer support can I expect from Insured Nomads and SafetyWing?

SafetyWing offers 24/7 customer support, which is particularly useful for travelers needing immediate assistance. Insured Nomads also provides robust customer support, though the availability hours may vary.

Do Insured Nomads and SafetyWing cover emergency evacuation?

Yes, both companies cover emergency evacuation services as part of their travel insurance plans.

Are there any discounts or promotions available?

Both Insured Nomads and SafetyWing occasionally offer discounts and promotions. It's advisable to check their respective websites for the most current offers.

Which insurance is better for long-term travelers?

SafetyWing is often recommended for long-term travelers and digital nomads due to its flexible and affordable plans. Insured Nomads also offers excellent options but may be better suited for those looking for more tailored coverage.