When you are traveling solo as a woman travel insurance is one of those love-hate things. No one wants it until you need it. We’re going to talk about travel insurance – and whether you need it as a solo female traveler, where to buy it, and what to look for.
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Do You Need Travel Insurance as a Solo Female Traveler?
A few words from founder of SoFe Travel, Amanda Black…
“After visiting 80+ countries (and many of them, 2 or 3 times), here’s what I’ve learned:
- It takes 1 second to sprain your ankle and wind up in the hospital on the first day of your three-week African safari
- It takes 1 person to enter your room, clear out your valuables, and disappear to find yourself stranded without money or clothes
- It takes 1 simple mistake to end up in Austria without any luggage
When it comes to travel, it’s just a matter of time (and perspective!) before you run into a snag and you’re faced with a tough situation.
Just get the insurance.
It doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated, but it will cover you from risks and just, well, life. You’ll get reassurance and the confidence to simply enjoy, be present, and know you’re taken care of.
What should be included in my insurance coverage?
Insurance is personal – meaning it will depend from person to person, depending on what you need. However, there are some general things that you can include or opt out of depending on your travel, lifestyle, and well, how covered you want to be. The difference? Cost. Below, we’ll break down the different components you should consider.
Trip Cancellation
Imagine your bags are packed, time booked off work and your two-week adventure around Italy all planned down to the nines. You’re doing Rome and the Amalfi Coast and even Capri. Then your house floods. Or a loved one gets sick. Or a global pandemic shuts down borders across the world. The point is, life happens, and life can cost a lot. Like many travel companies, SoFe’s terms and conditions are pretty strict when it comes to cancellations and non-refundable deposits. There are a lot of logistics around organizing tours and stays, and last-minute cancellations don’t change the costs already invested – which is exactly what Trip Cancellation Insurance is for. Recoup your expenses through your insurance so you won’t lose out.
Trip cancellation insurance can cover:
- Non-refundable deposits (like retreats or meetups)
- Airfare
- Accommodations
- Excursions
- And more
Check the limits of this coverage to make sure the amount you’re entitled to will actually compensate you adequately. Sometimes there are deduction fees, so take a look at what those are and make sure they are worth it. You’ll also want to check when you can cancel and still receive a payout. Some companies offer ‘cancel at any time’ coverage, which is more flexible.
Our recommendation? Hands down the best policy for trip cancellation insurance is Travel Insured.
Evacuation
Evacuation insurance sounds extra and scary, but after March 2020 left tens of thousands of travelers stranded all over the world and paying exorbitant fees to be evacuated safely, we’ve decided it is a priority. Evacuation basically means for whatever emergency reason, you’re going to be evacuated safely. This covers medical or non-medical situations, terrorism, civil unrest, natural disasters or other emergencies that require you to get out of that place, ASAP.
For example, medical evacuation covers serious injury or illness, flying you home to your own country where the medical staff speak your language and you can be supported by loved ones.
Repatriation
Another thing to check for is repatriation – which isn’t so much for you but for your loved ones. Imagine you pass away overseas and your family wants to take your body home. Okay yes, it’s a morbid thought – but there are all kinds of complications around that process. With repatriation insurance, at least you can make it home (even if you won’t be around to witness it).
Starting or Extending Policies
If you’re an “anything goes” type of gal, this policy is for you.
Starting or extending means if you delay or extend your trip, you can adjust those dates without penalty. Some companies without this policy are super strict and you cannot purchase insurance if you’ve already left on your trip…but this policy will let you play it by ear. SafetyWing, discussed later, is our FAVorite option for the bounce-around-type-of-gal!
Medical Expenses Insurance
Okay, so this policy is probably the most important of them all. Medical expenses or fear of injury or illness is the number one deterrent that keeps people from pursuing their traveling dreams. So you’re already in a foreign country, possibly don’t speak the language and are either super sick or injured…and then you have to max out your credit card just to get admitted somewhere.
Not a good scene in anyone’s books.
However! Medical expenses are covered in just about all travel insurance policies, so what you’re going to want to pay attention to is the amount of coverage you can get.
Typically, you’ll need to cover the costs upfront and expect reimbursement later – but depending on where you’re traveling, there may be reciprocal healthcare relationships in place, just ask your provider.
Pre-existing Conditions
If you already have a pre-existing condition such as heart issues, diabetes, asthma or well, anything else considered serious, your insurance rates might be different. It might not be fair, but it’s the way it goes as you’re considered a higher risk to the company. But some companies are more lax about it than others.
As a general rule, if you have a managed and relatively less serious condition like type 2 diabetes, it would be covered automatically (although you should declare it and always double-check it’s included).
If you have a terminal illness, a pacemaker, a condition that requires surgery or has recently required surgery, you can expect to pay more – if you can get coverage at all.
If you’re traveling with a pretty significant pre-existing condition, there are some dedicated travel insurance providers such as All Clear Travel Insurance that you should take a look at.
Extreme Sports
Shout out to our wild childs’! If you’re more of the let’s go surfing and hiking glaciers and backcountry skiing down the slopes of Hakuba in Japan, travel insurance is probably more for you than for anyone else.
All companies differ in what they categorize as extreme or adventure sports or those that require specific coverage. Climbing at high altitudes, skydiving, shooting sports, some moped and motorbike riding, cliff jumping and sailing generally require extra or different coverage plans. Even things like scuba diving can have limits, according to the depth you’re diving, whether you’re with a qualified instructor, whether you have an open water license and the equipment you use. If you’re planning on running with the bulls in Pamplona or zip lining though a Canadian forest, check your policy.
One of the best companies for thrill seekers is SafetyWing which has extensive coverage for all kinds of adventurous, extreme sport-type things.
Lost or stolen baggage
Guess what the NUMBER ONE submitted claim is for travel insurance. Yep, it has to do with baggage. Despite advances in systems and technology, missing baggage claims have actually gone up since 2020, primarily due to airline staff shortages across the world. Typically lost or stolen baggage is included in your basic travel insurance, but you’ll want to check or add it if it’s not.
If you’re taking valuables away with you, like expensive jewelry, musical instruments, sporting gear or like, your work computer…it’s really important to check that they are covered. The wording on policies can be sneaky and providers are especially careful about this becasue so many people do make this sort of claim. You may only be covered if your provider deems you were acting responsibly (not leaving items unattended) and this can be a really gray area.
Our recommendation? Get the baggage coverage. If you’re a traveler and have not yet experienced missing luggage, you’re one of the lucky few. It’ll catch up with you, we promise.
Electronics Coverage
Some companies only cover electronics like laptops, phones, iPads, and camera gear if they’re in your carry-on. Even then, the coverage may only apply if the items are in checked baggage that has been lost (as opposed to stolen). These days, our electronics are a pretty important part of travel for many of us, especially those of us who are digital nomads. So check for this. Make sure your two thousand dollar drone is covered. We speak from experience.
What to do when something goes wrong
Okay, so something went wrong.
First, keep your cool. Realize you’re going to be fine, you’ve got coverage and it wasn’t your fault.
Second, document everything. We’re talking police reports, receipts, emails from your airlines about delays, all of it. Record and keep everything with accurate dates and times. Take photos of paper receipts on your phone. Use an app to record phone calls if you need evidence of verbal agreements or instructions. Take time-stamped photos of any valuable gear your take with you.
Third, read the fine print of your policy to know exactly what’s covered and what’s not. Ideally, doing this beforehand is the way to go. But if you’re already in a situation, you’re going to feel a lot better knowing what’s in the document and what you’re actually covered for.
Fourth, hindsight is great but foresight is better. That’s why you’re reading this article, isn’t it?
So IF you’re in the middle of deciding whether or not you want to save $6.00, just don’t. Get the highest level of coverage you can afford. There’s nothing more frustrating than paying for a policy, trying to claim, and realizing you’re not actually covered for the circumstance you’re in. I’m telling you, it’ll be worth it.
Expect the unexpected, both good and bad. That’s what travel is about!
Which Insurance Company is Best For Solo Female Travelers?
There are literally thousands of insurance companies around the world with tons of moving parts and fancy lingo. The plan you choose depends on what is most important for you. But if you’re more of a generalist and are looking for a solid plan that covers all the basics without breaking the bank, keep reading.
#1 Company for All-Around Travel insurance: Travel Insured
If you’re going on one of our SoFe Travel Meetup Tours, go with Travel Insured – not only because it’s a great company – but also because we have a dedicated rep so if anything goes wrong, we can contact them directly.
That means we get access to your details in case of emergency and we’ll be able to make decisions based on your level of coverage on your behalf.
UPSIDES: good coverage, reasonable pricing, and top priority on urgent claims. Can cover individuals from across the world.
DOWNSIDES: their claims process for non-emergency stuff isn’t very fast – which is only annoying if you need the reimbursement quickly.
We’ve (the SoFe Travel team) used Travel Insured for years and all of our experiences have been good.
“When all my stuff was stolen in Mexico, I was issued payment for the maximum amount allowed in less than 6 days. It replaced a stolen computer, camera, lenses, dive gear and cash…IN A WEEK. That’s pretty damn good in the insurance world.” -Amanda, SoFe Travel Founder
For less serious claims (like a $50 doctor visit), they may take a bit longer. Another SoFe team member used Travel Insured when she was in Australia and felt off. She went to a naturopath and got expensive, fancy vitamins and an IV drip, and Travel Insured covered it all. So the medical expenses don’t have to be traditional Western standards, either.
#1 Company for frequent travelers: Safetywing
SafetyWing is another favorite of ours, founded by Norwegian digital nomads and focuses on providing great coverage for people who spend a lot of time on the road. There’s an interesting thread on ProductHunt where the CEO and Co-Founder, Sondre Rasch, chats to commenters about how the start-up began and grew here.
These plans are amazing because they are SUPER affordable, and you can book for weeks or months or even a year at a time. The longer your trip, the cheaper the weekly cost is. You choose your start and end dates and can cancel at any time, which is obviously ideal for the lifestyle of a digital nomad. Some home country coverage is also included, which isn’t that common – and is a major perk. There are also add-ons including US coverage, Adventure Sports and Electronic Theft.
UPSIDES: good coverage, reasonable pricing, can be purchased while you’re already traveling. Especially good for nomads.
DOWNSIDES: they are a newer company, which doesn’t really mean that much.
PS. They also have a subscription model for their services, which makes them pretty flexible for frequent travelers.
#1 company for non-North American individuals: Allianz
Allianz is another name that comes up a lot when you search for travel insurance recommendations. They’re one of the big companies out there, backed up by one of the world’s biggest diversified insurance companies, so they know their stuff.
Although they don’t have coverage that encompasses the breadth of activities that our other preferred companies do, they do provide coverage for almost every nationality in the world.
Allianz has a 24-hour hotline with multilingual staff on hand which we’ve found handy. While the premiums are generally lower at Allianz, so are the limits, meaning the caps on reimbursement for things like lost luggage may not be as high as other providers.
UPSIDES: good customer service and simple submission process
DOWNSIDES: doesn’t cover everything, just the basics
Insurance in a snapshot
**The prices here are subject to age, health, coverage, and more. This number is an estimate only and not to be taken as absolute.
Conclusion: Do Solo Female Travelers Need Travel Insurance?
Yes. Travel insurance is an essential companion for solo female travelers, offering not only financial protection but also peace of mind as you explore the world. From safeguarding against unforeseen medical emergencies to covering trip cancellations, lost belongings, and more, the right insurance plan can make all the difference. Remember to assess your travel needs, compare policies, and understand the fine print to ensure you’re adequately covered. With the right preparation and coverage, you can embark on your adventures with confidence, knowing you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Safe travels!
FAQs: Travel Insurance for Solo Female Travelers
1. Do I really need travel insurance as a solo traveler?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended, especially for solo travelers. It provides financial protection in case of emergencies such as medical issues, trip cancellations, or lost belongings. When traveling alone, having insurance ensures you’re supported even without a travel companion to rely on.
2. What types of coverage should I prioritize?
Key coverages to prioritize include medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost or stolen belongings, and personal liability. Adventure activity coverage might also be important if you plan to engage in activities like hiking or scuba diving.
3. Are there travel insurance policies specifically for women?
While there aren’t policies exclusively for women, many insurance providers offer customizable plans that can address specific needs. For instance, you might want a policy that covers solo activities or has provisions for higher-risk scenarios common to solo female travelers.
4. How do I choose the best travel insurance provider?
When selecting a provider, compare policies based on coverage options, customer reviews, claim processes, and cost. Make sure the provider has a reliable reputation and offers 24/7 assistance.
5. Does travel insurance cover theft or assault?
Most travel insurance plans cover theft of personal belongings, provided you file a police report. For assault or other personal safety incidents, coverage depends on the policy, so it’s important to review terms related to personal liability and medical coverage.
6. Can I buy travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, but it’s best to purchase travel insurance shortly after booking your trip. This ensures you’re covered for unexpected cancellations or interruptions that might occur before departure.
7. Is travel insurance valid if I visit multiple countries?
Most travel insurance policies are valid for multiple countries, provided you list them when purchasing the policy. Some plans also offer worldwide coverage, but it’s important to check exclusions for specific regions.
8. What should I do if I need to make a claim while traveling?
In case of an incident, keep all relevant documentation, such as medical reports, police reports, and receipts. Contact your insurance provider immediately for guidance on submitting a claim.
9. Are there exclusions I should be aware of?
Yes, travel insurance policies often have exclusions, such as pre-existing medical conditions, extreme sports, or travel to high-risk areas. Always read the fine print to understand what isn’t covered.
10. Can I extend my travel insurance if I decide to stay longer?
Many providers allow you to extend your travel insurance coverage, but you’ll need to do so before the original policy expires. Contact your provider to discuss extension options.
