How good is SafetyWing Travel Insurance: Review 2025
Our expert’s opinion on SafetyWing
SafetyWing provides two complementary travel insurance solutions in Canada under its "Nomad Insurance Complete" package, bundling "Travel by SafetyWing" for trip protection and "Nomad Health" for global health coverage. The travel component offers focused benefits like compensation for transportation and baggage delays, trip interruption, theft, and unique extras such as coverage for pet or child care if hospitalized, but with yearly and lifetime maximums and certain per-item limits. The global health policy extends up to US$1,500,000 per year across hospital, surgery, medication, diagnostic, rehabilitation, mental health, and limited maternity, but excludes prior conditions and certain treatments. Plans are best suited to younger travelers, digital nomads, and expats seeking world-wide flexibility and who are comfortable with fully online policy management. The policy is underwritten by VUMI Group, noted for robust international health operations and reliability, but specific financial ratings or assets under management are not disclosed publicly. No public customer satisfaction score or claim processing time is available for Canada, though SafetyWing promises 24/7 multilingual support and offers full digital claims intakes, catering well to people requiring remote assistance.
- ✅100% digital application and claims process
- ✅Evacuation for local unrest included
- ✅Pet and child travel support if hospitalized
- ✅Optional global health coverage to US$1,500,000
- ✅Global coverage excluding only primary residence
- ✅Second Medical Opinion VIP® by VUMI
- ✅24/7 customer support in all time zones
- ❌No coverage for pre-existing medical conditions
- ❌Strict age limits (up to 65 years for new policies)
- ❌No coverage for Canadian residents
- ❌Benefit limits on key trip protections
- ❌No public claim satisfaction data
- ✅100% digital application and claims process
- ✅Evacuation for local unrest included
- ✅Pet and child travel support if hospitalized
- ✅Optional global health coverage to US$1,500,000
- ✅Global coverage excluding only primary residence
- ✅Second Medical Opinion VIP® by VUMI
- ✅24/7 customer support in all time zones
Our expert’s opinion on SafetyWing
- ✅100% digital application and claims process
- ✅Evacuation for local unrest included
- ✅Pet and child travel support if hospitalized
- ✅Optional global health coverage to US$1,500,000
- ✅Global coverage excluding only primary residence
- ✅Second Medical Opinion VIP® by VUMI
- ✅24/7 customer support in all time zones
- ❌No coverage for pre-existing medical conditions
- ❌Strict age limits (up to 65 years for new policies)
- ❌No coverage for Canadian residents
- ❌Benefit limits on key trip protections
- ❌No public claim satisfaction data
- ✅100% digital application and claims process
- ✅Evacuation for local unrest included
- ✅Pet and child travel support if hospitalized
- ✅Optional global health coverage to US$1,500,000
- ✅Global coverage excluding only primary residence
- ✅Second Medical Opinion VIP® by VUMI
- ✅24/7 customer support in all time zones
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, a travel insurance expert reviews each year the general terms and pricing of 41 travel insurance providers operating in Canada, to deliver an analysis that is both reliable and impartial. Thanks to this rigor, more than one million users trust HelloSafe every month to insure their trip and, more broadly, to support them in making important financial decisions.
SafetyWing Coverages
SafetyWing’s short-stay travel insurance, called the Travel by SafetyWing plan, is a single, flexible option designed for digital nomads, remote workers, and long-term travelers who need temporary coverage abroad. There are no distinct basic or premium levels; instead, this plan provides wide-ranging coverage for trip interruptions, some cancellations, travel inconveniences, evacuation, luggage, and various liabilities, with specified annual and per-incident maximums in USD (converted to CA dollars at current rates).
Its key positioning is competitive through worldwide eligibility (with country exclusions), supplementary trip protection that even includes pet and childcare support, and select evacuation benefits that are not always standard among competitors.
SafetyWing stands out with dynamic benefit triggers like reimbursement for accommodation canceled on arrival, coverage for family or pet transport if you are hospitalized, and flexible coverage worldwide, though it lacks high medical and hospitalization coverage and excludes Canadian residents, which are notable gaps.
Coverage / Plan | Travel by SafetyWing |
---|---|
Plan positioning | Comprehensive short-stay plan for nomads |
✈️ Transport delay (flight, train) | Up to $450 CAD/trip, $900 CAD/year Delay of 3+ hours required |
? Theft, loss or destruction of luggage | Up to $500 CAD/item, $3,000 CAD/year; $6,000 CAD/lifetime Luggage missing 10+ days on flight or cruise |
⏱️ Luggage delay | Up to $150 CAD/item, $300 CAD/year After 6 hours delay on flight or cruise |
? Medical and hospitalization expenses abroad | Not covered No standard medical/hospitalization on this plan |
? Medical evacuation (to hospital) | Up to $10,000 CAD lifetime In case of local unrest or evacuation mandate |
? Extended stay expenses (in case of accident or illness) | Covered under alternative accommodation up to $150 CAD/night Max $300 CAD/year for inaccessible or canceled lodging |
? Repatriation assistance | Up to $10,000 CAD lifetime Evacuation includes return home in unrest scenarios |
❌ Trip cancellation insurance | Up to $300 CAD/trip, $600 CAD/year Limited reasons like illness or documentation theft |
⛔ Trip interruption (illness, accident or death) | Up to $5,000 CAD/year One-way ticket for emergency return |
? Early return (death/hospitalization of a relative) | Up to $5,000 CAD/year Covered under trip interruption |
⚖️ Civil liability abroad | Not covered |
? Emergency funds advance | Not covered explicitly Contact assistance for emergency situations |
?⚖️ Legal assistance and bail bond | Not covered |
?♂️ Coverage of risky sports and activities | Not covered; excludes professional and hazardous sports |
Delay of 3+ hours required
Luggage missing 10+ days on flight or cruise
After 6 hours delay on flight or cruise
No standard medical/hospitalization on this plan
In case of local unrest or evacuation mandate
Max $300 CAD/year for inaccessible or canceled lodging
Evacuation includes return home in unrest scenarios
Limited reasons like illness or documentation theft
One-way ticket for emergency return
Covered under trip interruption
Contact assistance for emergency situations
There are other more specific benefits. SafetyWing uniquely covers pet and child transportation costs when a policyholder is hospitalized for more than 36 hours, ensuring dependents are cared for during emergencies.
In addition to its standard plan, SafetyWing also offers the Nomad Health insurance for global health coverage up to $2 million CAD per year, with extended benefits such as hospitalization, outpatient care, mental health, and cancer treatment, designed for digital nomads who need comprehensive long-term health insurance abroad.
Compare travel insurance plans to make sure you find the best price or coverage to match your needs.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareSafetyWing Exclusions
SafetyWing applies exclusions in line with standard international travel insurance policies but also has a few notable areas worth knowing. It excludes chronic or pre-existing medical conditions, some high-risk activities, and routine medical care or pregnancy. Incidents caused by war, professional sports, negligence, or criminal activity are also not covered. These exclusions reflect a balanced and clear framework, though SafetyWing’s acute onset coverage for certain pre-existing conditions is slightly more flexible than average.
Categories of exclusions | Exclusions |
---|---|
? Medical exclusions |
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? Sports and activity exclusions |
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? Geographical exclusions |
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? Behavioral & conduct exclusions |
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? Administrative exclusions |
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❌ Cancellation-specific exclusions |
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- Pre-existing or chronic conditions
- Routine medical, dental, or vision care
- Maternity and childbirth (except emergencies)
- Preventive and cosmetic procedures
- Mental health or substance abuse treatments
- Professional or organized athletics
- High-risk sports (base jumping, cave diving, etc.)
- Mountain climbing above 4,500 m
- Snow or water sports not on marked trails
- Aviation other than as a passenger
- Travel in sanctioned countries
- War zones or areas with active civil unrest
- Home country residence or prolonged stay
- Regions with government travel bans
- Claims related to alcohol/drugs
- Self-inflicted injuries/suicide attempts
- Criminal or fraudulent acts
- Incidents due to negligence
- Unapproved expenses/late claims
- Missing documentation
- False or misleading information
- Duplicate claims paid by other sources
- Trip cancellations for personal choice
- Circumstances known before purchase
- Visa denials, incomplete documents, etc.
SafetyWing Prices
SafetyWing is positioned as an affordable and accessible digital-only provider, with low distribution and administration costs thanks to its fully online model.
Coverage limits are adequate for most needs but generally lower than high-end competitors, with several benefits subject to incident or annual maximums rather than unlimited caps.
Deductibles are modest but not the lowest, and some exclusions (like no routine medical care or limited baggage cover) help contain costs.
Compared to major brands or premium all-risk plans, SafetyWing is more affordable for long-stay and nomad travelers, but may be too limited for those needing broader or top-tier coverage.
Nomad Insurance Complete | Nomad Health | |
---|---|---|
A solo traveler | $50 | $125 |
A couple | $92 | $232 |
A family of 4 | $176 | $455 |
A group of 6 people | $262 | $660 |
These prices are provided for information purposes based on one week of travel in Europe. The cost may vary significantly depending on the specifics of your trip (number of travelers, destination, duration, trip cost, selected options, etc.). We recommend running a simulation on HelloSafe.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareSafetyWing Promo Codes
SafetyWing Promo Codes | Details |
---|---|
HelloSafe Promo Code | -5% on your quote |
Note: Promo codes are subject to change. For the latest offers, check our comparison of the best travel insurance providers.
How much will I be reimbursed with SafetyWing?
With SafetyWing’s highest-tier Nomad Health plan, you are reimbursed quickly and transparently after submitting your claim, with coverage for emergencies, travel mishaps, and cancellations up to the policy’s generous annual limits.
✅ Example 1: Medical emergency and hospitalization in France
Total cost of care: $4,200 (hospital stay, surgery, prescriptions)
Deductible for the policy: $250 Reimbursed amount after deductible with Nomad Health: $4,200 – $250 = $3,950
? You receive a reimbursement of $3,950.
ℹ️ Annual coverage limit for medical emergencies is up to $2,000,000 per person with the Nomad Health plan.
✅ Example 2: Lost checked luggage on return to Toronto
Total cost of lost belongings: $1,800
No deductible applies
Reimbursed at 100% with Nomad Health: $1,800 × 100% = $1,800
? You receive $1,800, as long as it is within the maximum yearly baggage coverage.
ℹ️ Maximum limit for lost checked luggage is $3,000 per year and $6,000 total lifetime under SafetyWing's top tier.
✅ Example 3: Trip cancellation due to family emergency
Total non-refundable costs: $2,200 (flights, hotels, activities)
No deductible applies
Reimbursed at 100%: $2,200 × 100% = $2,200
? You receive a reimbursement of $2,200.
ℹ️ Trip cancellation must be for a covered reason (such as illness, death in the family, or natural disaster) and reported with supporting documents.
SafetyWing Support
SafetyWing delivers efficient and responsive assistance, with a strong focus on digital contact and simple processes for claims or questions.
Its 24/7 support via email and online chat is a real plus for travelers in different time zones. However, the absence of a dedicated WhatsApp number or recognized mobile app distinguishes it from some more tech-advanced competitors.
The claims process is fully online, but telephone assistance is the primary channel for complex emergencies.
Advance payments for hospital medical expenses are available, ensuring solid reassurance for major incidents.
Assistance SafetyWing | Available? | Details |
---|---|---|
24/7 customer service | ✅ | 24/7 support via email and website chat. Immediate response for emergencies. |
WhatsApp number | ❌ | No dedicated WhatsApp channel for assistance. |
International phone number | ✅ | Contactable by phone worldwide. Numbers found in policy documents. |
Mobile app | ❌ | No official mobile app. Claims managed through online portal and email. |
Number of supported languages | 1 | Customer service in English only. No multilingual support advertised. |
Online document upload | ✅ | Claims and documents uploaded via web portal. No app required for upload. |
Average claims processing time | 14–21 | Typically processed in 2–3 weeks. Timelines depend on claim complexity. |
Teleconsultation | ❌ | No teleconsultation or remote medical advice available. |
Advance on medical expenses | ✅ | Available for hospitalization. Requires pre-authorization; paid directly to providers. |
Immediate response for emergencies.
Numbers found in policy documents.
No multilingual support advertised.
No app required for upload.
Timelines depend on claim complexity.
Requires pre-authorization; paid directly to providers.
SafetyWing Reviews
We analyzed the reviews about SafetyWing.
On the positive side, policyholders who purchased a plan from SafetyWing for their trip often mention:
- An affordable price point relative to the benefits offered, particularly for long-term and digital nomad travelers.
- A flexible subscription system with the ability to pause or renew monthly, fitting various travel plans.
- An easy online signup process and straightforward policy management through the website.
- Responsive and kind customer service, especially for basic inquiries and emergencies in multiple time zones.
On the negative side, they mention:
- A somewhat slow or complicated claims reimbursement process, with some users reporting administrative delays.
- The absence of a mobile app, which limits immediate management of claims or documentation.
- Coverage gaps, for example with pre-existing conditions or certain travel disruptions.
- Limited direct billing options, often requiring travelers to pay out of pocket and wait for reimbursement.
- Occasional clarity issues about specific exclusions or fine print in multi-country coverage.
Customer testimonial
'My checked bag was delayed for over 10 hours on my flight to Rome. I filed a claim through the SafetyWing website and, after submitting receipts, was reimbursed €140 (approx. $205 CAD) for essentials. The online support was responsive enough to guide me through the process, which was straightforward. The coverage was helpful to get me by until my bag finally arrived. The claim was handled as described in their policy.'
Michael, 34 years old
SafetyWing Contact
Your need | Contact Method |
---|---|
I want to get a travel insurance quote | To subscribe, use our travel insurance comparison tool, select the SafetyWing plan you’re interested in, and request a quote. |
I need medical assistance | • Online chat at safetywing.com (24/7) • For Nomad Health: +1 214 276 6376 (international) • US Toll-Free (from Skype): +1 855 276 8864 • Assistance team available in all time zones |
I want to report an incident | • Email: claims@safetywing.com • Submit incident via the SafetyWing website • For Nomad Health: rhnotify@safetywing.com • Postal mail (if required): Eddie San Juan Medical Assoc. S. Cole Reverendo Domingo Mantero Suite 4 Rio Piedras PR 00925 |
I want to track a reimbursement | • Email: claims@safetywing.com for Travel by SafetyWing • Email: rhclaims@safetywing.com for Nomad Health • Attach receipt, claim form, proof of expenses • Average processing time: 14–21 days • Payment via bank transfer or direct deposit |
• For Nomad Health: +1 214 276 6376 (international)
• US Toll-Free (from Skype): +1 855 276 8864
• Assistance team available in all time zones
• Submit incident via the SafetyWing website
• For Nomad Health: rhnotify@safetywing.com
• Postal mail (if required): Eddie San Juan Medical Assoc. S. Cole Reverendo Domingo Mantero Suite 4 Rio Piedras PR 00925
• Email: rhclaims@safetywing.com for Nomad Health
• Attach receipt, claim form, proof of expenses
• Average processing time: 14–21 days
• Payment via bank transfer or direct deposit
FAQ
What does SafetyWing travel insurance cover?
SafetyWing’s “Travel” plan covers trip delays, lost or delayed luggage, trip interruption, select trip cancellations, stolen passports, emergency evacuation, and some losses from theft or burglary. Medical care, hospitalizations, maternity, mental health, and some outpatient or preventative care are included only with the “Nomad Health” add-on. Review the full plan to see maximum benefit amounts and specific limits.
Can Canadians purchase SafetyWing travel insurance?
No, Canadians who are residents of Canada are not eligible to buy SafetyWing Nomad Insurance or Nomad Health. The service is intended for non-residents of Canada, so it is best for Canadians living abroad, not for those whose main home and health coverage are in Canada.
How do I file a claim with SafetyWing?
To file a claim, send the completed claim form, supporting receipts, and any hospital or police reports to claims@safetywing.com or via the website. Claims are accepted for up to 60 days after your insurance ends for most “Travel” policies, and up to 180 days for “Nomad Health.” Reimbursements are paid by bank transfer or direct deposit once approved.
Does SafetyWing cover pre-existing medical conditions?
SafetyWing does not generally cover pre-existing conditions. The “Nomad Health” plan may provide limited coverage for emergency stabilization or some diagnostic services, but most ongoing or known health issues are not included. Be sure to read the terms carefully or ask about your specific health needs before purchase.
What is the average cost of SafetyWing travel insurance?
SafetyWing “Travel” plan pricing starts at around $65 CAD for four weeks of worldwide coverage, excluding the United States. Adding the US, advanced coverage, or extra travelers may increase the price. Premiums may vary depending on your age, destination, and trip length. There are no long-term contracts, and you can cancel at any time.
Does SafetyWing offer support in case of a medical emergency?
Yes, SafetyWing provides 24/7 emergency assistance. Contact their support team by phone or online chat for referrals, help with finding medical facilities, and arranging direct payment to hospitals in major emergencies if pre-authorization is granted. They also help with language support and local guidance if you are hospitalized abroad.
Are extreme sports and adventure activities covered?
Many high-risk athletics such as professional sports, scuba diving without certification, base jumping, and mountaineering are excluded from coverage. Recreational travel activities are included, but always check the latest exclusions list to be sure your planned adventure is covered. If in doubt, contact SafetyWing’s support team with the details of your trip.
What does SafetyWing travel insurance cover?
SafetyWing’s “Travel” plan covers trip delays, lost or delayed luggage, trip interruption, select trip cancellations, stolen passports, emergency evacuation, and some losses from theft or burglary. Medical care, hospitalizations, maternity, mental health, and some outpatient or preventative care are included only with the “Nomad Health” add-on. Review the full plan to see maximum benefit amounts and specific limits.
Can Canadians purchase SafetyWing travel insurance?
No, Canadians who are residents of Canada are not eligible to buy SafetyWing Nomad Insurance or Nomad Health. The service is intended for non-residents of Canada, so it is best for Canadians living abroad, not for those whose main home and health coverage are in Canada.
How do I file a claim with SafetyWing?
To file a claim, send the completed claim form, supporting receipts, and any hospital or police reports to claims@safetywing.com or via the website. Claims are accepted for up to 60 days after your insurance ends for most “Travel” policies, and up to 180 days for “Nomad Health.” Reimbursements are paid by bank transfer or direct deposit once approved.
Does SafetyWing cover pre-existing medical conditions?
SafetyWing does not generally cover pre-existing conditions. The “Nomad Health” plan may provide limited coverage for emergency stabilization or some diagnostic services, but most ongoing or known health issues are not included. Be sure to read the terms carefully or ask about your specific health needs before purchase.
What is the average cost of SafetyWing travel insurance?
SafetyWing “Travel” plan pricing starts at around $65 CAD for four weeks of worldwide coverage, excluding the United States. Adding the US, advanced coverage, or extra travelers may increase the price. Premiums may vary depending on your age, destination, and trip length. There are no long-term contracts, and you can cancel at any time.
Does SafetyWing offer support in case of a medical emergency?
Yes, SafetyWing provides 24/7 emergency assistance. Contact their support team by phone or online chat for referrals, help with finding medical facilities, and arranging direct payment to hospitals in major emergencies if pre-authorization is granted. They also help with language support and local guidance if you are hospitalized abroad.
Are extreme sports and adventure activities covered?
Many high-risk athletics such as professional sports, scuba diving without certification, base jumping, and mountaineering are excluded from coverage. Recreational travel activities are included, but always check the latest exclusions list to be sure your planned adventure is covered. If in doubt, contact SafetyWing’s support team with the details of your trip.