What Is the Best Travel Insurance for Backpackers, Solo Travelers, and Digital Nomads?

SafetyWing vs Heymondo: Which Travel Insurance Is Better?

Whether you're backpacking through Southeast Asia on a budget, working remotely from a European co-living space, or exploring South America, having the right travel insurance is essential. The ideal policy goes beyond basic medical coverage—it offers comprehensive protection and peace of mind, allowing you to navigate new cultures, flexible itineraries, and unexpected challenges with confidence. Notably, prices for such extensive coverage start from just $2 per day — less than the cost of a single cup of coffee.

So, which travel insurance provider is the better choice for backpackers, solo travelers, and digital nomads? In this detailed comparison, we pit SafetyWing against Heymondo to help you make an informed decision. We'll break down their coverage details, pricing structures, and claims processes to help you identify which insurance plan better aligns with your travel style and needs, ensuring you stay protected wherever your adventures take you.

Affiliate Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. This does not affect our recommendations. We only feature products we genuinely believe in, based on quality, traveler reviews, and firsthand experience.


Comparison Summary: Your First Step to Finding the Right Travel Insurance

Comparing travel insurance isn't just about price—it's about coverage specifics, reliability, and ensuring your policy aligns with your travel style. Just as you'd compare flight options before booking, it's wise to weigh different insurance providers to secure the support you need—no matter where your next adventure takes you.

SafetyWing: Your Reliable Global Companion

Considered a go-to choice for digital nomads and long-haul adventurers, SafetyWing provides flexible, subscription-style coverage that adapts to your life on the road. Its straightforward approach may not offer every niche add-on, but if you value simplicity, affordability, and steady protection wherever you roam, SafetyWing stands out as a popular choice among location-independent travelers.

Heymondo: Tech-Savvy Insurance with Customizable Coverage

Heymondo brings a modern approach to travel insurance with its user-friendly mobile app and flexible coverage options. If you're looking for a tech-forward solution with strong customer support and the ability to tailor your coverage, Heymondo offers an impressive suite of features including instant medical assistance through their app and customizable plans for different types of travelers.

Genki: Comprehensive & Flexible Health Insurance

Genki offers versatile insurance solutions tailored for modern travelers. Whether you choose Genki Explorer’s flexible, subscription-based travel health coverage or Genki Native’s full international plan, Genki adapts to your unique travel needs for both short trips and long-term stays abroad.

The Bottom Line: Which Travel Insurance Is Best?

Genki:

Ideal for expats, families, and long-term travelers, Genki Native provides extended worldwide coverage. Choose from Basic and Premium variants to access additional benefits like preventive, dental, and vision care.

SafetyWing:

Best for flexible, subscription-based coverage and straightforward pricing—ideal for digital nomads and long-term travelers who value simplicity and affordability.

Heymondo:

Perfect for customizable plans, integrated telemedicine, and a user-friendly app—tailor your coverage to your travel style and stay connected to professional support 24/7.

When Should You Get Travel Insurance?

Securing travel insurance is a critical step in planning any trip, whether it's a short getaway or a long-term adventure. Here are the key moments when obtaining travel insurance is essential:

  • Before Booking Your Trip: Purchase travel insurance immediately after booking your flights and hostels. This ensures you're covered for any unforeseen changes or cancellations that may occur before your departure.
  • During Trip Planning: If you're still finalizing your itinerary, purchasing insurance during the planning phase provides flexibility and comprehensive coverage tailored to your evolving travel plans.
  • When Traveling to High-Risk Destinations: For trips to countries with expensive healthcare systems or regions prone to natural disasters, travel insurance offers essential protection against high medical costs and emergencies.
  • Engaging in Adventure Activities: If your travels include activities like trekking, scuba diving, or extreme sports, specialized insurance coverage is crucial to protect against potential accidents and injuries.
  • Long-Term Travel or Digital Nomadism: Extended stays abroad require robust insurance plans that offer continuous coverage, accommodating your dynamic lifestyle and changing locations.

Pro Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute to purchase travel insurance. Securing a policy early not only provides peace of mind but may also offer more comprehensive coverage options and better pricing. And no: This is indeed not a marketing-trick.

How to Get Travel Insurance: The Process

Navigating the process of obtaining travel insurance is straightforward when you understand the steps involved. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you secure the right coverage for your trip:

  1. Assess Your Needs: Determine the type of coverage you require based on your travel plans, activities, and personal health considerations. Consider factors like trip duration, destinations, and any specific risks associated with your itinerary.
  2. Compare Providers: Utilize comparison tools or consult comprehensive guides like ours to evaluate different insurance providers. Key aspects to compare include coverage options, premium costs, claim processes, and customer reviews.
  3. Select a Plan: Choose a policy that aligns with your needs and budget. Pay close attention to the coverage limits, exclusions, and additional benefits offered by each plan.
  4. Provide Necessary Information: Fill out the application form with accurate details, including your personal information, travel dates, destinations, and any pre-existing medical conditions.
  5. Review the Policy: Carefully read through the policy documents to understand the terms and conditions. Ensure that all your selected coverage areas are adequately addressed.
  6. Make Payment: Complete the purchase by paying the premium through the provider’s secure payment gateway. Some providers offer monthly subscriptions, while others require a one-time payment.
  7. Receive Confirmation: Upon successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email with your policy documents. Keep these documents accessible during your travels, either digitally or in print.
  8. Understand the Claims Process: Familiarize yourself with the steps to file a claim in case of an emergency. Knowing the process in advance can save time and reduce stress during unforeseen events.

Pro Tip: Make yourself a list of the absolute basics you want your insurance to cover. This will simplify your decision-making process. If diving is a must for you, make sure it’s included. It's incredibly frustrating to purchase a policy only to discover that a key activity isn’t covered.

What Affects the Price of Your Travel Insurance?

Let's talk money: How much does this insurance set me back? Find below the calculator by Genki. Check how much your own insurance would be:

Your travel insurance premium is influenced by several key factors that determine the level of risk and coverage you require. Understanding these parameters can help you make informed decisions and potentially lower your insurance costs.

  • Nationality: Depending on your nationality, certain regions may have higher or lower risk profiles, affecting premium costs.
  • Age: Generally, older travelers may face higher premiums due to increased health risks.
  • Destination: Traveling to countries with expensive healthcare systems or higher risk of natural disasters can elevate your premium.
  • Duration of Travel: Longer trips typically result in higher premiums as the duration of coverage extends.
  • Travel Purpose: Business trips, leisure travels, or adventure activities can influence the type of coverage required and the associated costs.
  • Health Status: Pre-existing medical conditions may require additional coverage or result in higher premiums.
  • Coverage Limits: Higher coverage limits for medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other benefits will increase the premium.
  • Policy Type: Comprehensive plans with extensive coverage options are more expensive than basic plans with limited benefits.
  • Deductibles and Exclusions: Policies with lower deductibles typically have higher premiums, while those with more exclusions may offer lower costs.

Pro Tip: To get the best rates, compare multiple providers and tailor your coverage to exclude unnecessary extras. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding high-risk activities can help reduce your premium costs.

Sports Covered By Safetywing Nomad Insurance

Below you’ll find a full list of all sports activities covered by SafetyWing insurance. Please note that coverage may change over time, so we recommend double-checking the official SafetyWing website for the most up-to-date information. SafetyWing also offers add-ons for adventure sports coverage for extra $10/month. You can find the list of sports included in the add-ons here.

AnglingArcheryBadmintonBallooning
BaseballBiking (included touring and organized tours)BowlingBungee jumping
BushwalkingCamel riding / trekkingCamping under 4,500 meters altitudeCanoeing
Canyon swingCanyoningCapoeira dancingClay pigeon shooting
CricketCycling under 4,500 meters altitudeDeep sea fishingDirt boarding
Dog sledding (not racing or competing)Fell running / walkingFencingFishing
Flying as a passengerGlacier walking under 4,500 meters altitudeGolfGymnastics
Hiking under 4,500 meters altitudeHorse ridingHot air ballooning as a passengerHunting (excluding big game)
Ice skating (indoor or outdoor)Ice climbing under 4,500 meters altitudeJet boatingJet skiing
KayakingLand surfingMountain biking under 4,500 meters altitudeNetball
OrienteeringPaintballingRamblingRap jumping
Rifle range shootingRock climbingRoller bladingRoller skating
Rowing / scullingSafari toursSailingSandboarding
Sand skiingSea canoeingSea kayakingSkateboarding
Skiing (not covered off-piste)Sleigh ridesSleddingSnorkelling
Snow raftingSnowboarding (not covered off-piste)SoccerSpeed boating
SquashStand up paddle surfingStilt walkingSurfing
SwimmingTable tennisTen pin bowlingTennis
Trail bike ridingTrekking (under 4,500 meters altitude)TubingTubing on snow
Ultimate frisbeeVia ferrata (under 4,500 meters altitude)VolleyballWake skating
WakeboardingWalkingWater skiingWeightlifting, cardio and gym classes
WindsurfingYachtingYogaZip line
Zorbing

Sports Covered By Heymondo Top

What sports does Heymondo cover? Below you’ll find a comprehensive list of sports activities covered by Heymondo insurance. Coverage details may change, so we recommend checking the official Heymondo website for the latest information. Heymondo also offers optional add-ons for adventure sports coverage for an additional $10/month. You can explore the list of sports included in the add-ons here.

AthleticsGym activitiesActivities with undomesticated animals (bullfighting, etc.)Basketball
Motorboats (with driver)Bicycle ridingCanoeingCurling
Shooting/small game huntingOrganized hot-air balloon ridesGeneral hikingJogging
FootballGolfPedal boatsBall games
Beach gamesCamping activitiesKartingKayaking
Jet skisSnowmobilesSwimmingSailing
OrienteeringPaddle surfPaddle tennisPaintballing
Helicopter ridesSkatingFishingRope bridges
SnowshoeingClimbing wallsOffroadingSegways
HikingSnorkelingSurfingWindsurfing
TennisZip linesTrekking (below 3,000 meters)Sledding in ski resorts
MushingEquestrian tourismBeach activitiesOther similar activities

Sports Coverage by Genki Explorer

Genki Explorer covers virtually every sports activity to match your active lifestyle. Surfing, kitesurfing, skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, cycling, mountain biking, and hiking, for example, are covered. Rather than telling you what is covered, they specifically lay out what activities are not covered. These not covered activities are called Dangerous activities.

Exclusions - Dangerous activities 🚫

  • Dangerous sports: Diving, motorcycle & car racing (normal driving is fine), parachuting, paragliding, bungee & base jumping, free climbing, and mountaineering (if specialized equipment is required)
  • Pre-existing conditions (any condition treated or advised within 6 months prior to policy start)
  • Professional sports (if you’re earning compensation for participation)
  • Injuries resulting from drugs or excessive alcohol consumption
  • Active participation in war (passive roles like journalism are covered)

Why This Page Matters

This guide is designed to simplify your search for the best travel insurance provider by offering a complete overview of each option’s strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re a backpacker comparing coverage plans or a digital nomad seeking global medical support, this page has you covered.

You’ll also find a detailed review of each provider’s offerings, along with resources and tips tailored to the traveling community. Bookmark this page as your go-to resource for travel insurance, and check back often for updates on the latest policy options, coverage tweaks, and industry changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy SafetyWing or Heymondo insurance after starting my trip?

Yes, you can purchase both SafetyWing and Heymondo insurance after your trip has begun. However, both providers have a 72-hour waiting period (grace period) before your coverage becomes active when purchasing after departure.

Which insurance is better for long-term travelers?

SafetyWing is generally better for long-term travelers because it offers a subscription-based model that automatically renews every 28 days. Heymondo requires active renewal and is more suited for single trips or specific travel periods.

What's the main difference in coverage between SafetyWing and Heymondo?

Heymondo offers higher coverage limits in most categories (up to $5,000,000 medical coverage vs SafetyWing's $250,000) and includes trip cancellation insurance. However, SafetyWing offers home country coverage for up to 15 days every 90 days, which Heymondo doesn't provide.

Do both insurances cover adventure sports?

Both cover some sports activities, but Heymondo offers more comprehensive adventure sports coverage, including activities like trekking, canyoning, and zipline. SafetyWing covers basic activities like riding, canoeing, and surfing, with the option to purchase add-ons for additional sports.

Which insurance has better technology and support?

Heymondo offers a more tech-forward approach with a dedicated mobile app that includes telemedicine services and claim filing capabilities. SafetyWing provides 24/7 support through their website but doesn't have a mobile app.

What are the age limits for each insurance?

SafetyWing has an age limit of 69 years, while Heymondo's age limit is 49 years.

Is coverage in the USA included?

Both insurers cover travel in the USA, but it comes at an additional cost with both providers.

Which insurance is more affordable?

SafetyWing typically starts from $56.28/month, while Heymondo starts from $15.70 per trip. However, the final cost depends on factors like your age, destination, and coverage duration.

Can I purchase Genki insurance after my trip has begun?

Yes, you can buy Genki insurance even if you’re already traveling. However, if you sign up while abroad, a waiting period applies where only emergencies are covered for the first 14 days.

What’s the difference between Genki Explorer and Genki Native?

Genki Explorer offers flexible, subscription-based travel health coverage for short trips and digital nomads, while Genki Native provides comprehensive international health insurance for long-term travelers, expats, and families—with options for Basic and Premium coverage.

How does the waiting period work for Genki insurance?

If you sign up from abroad without other healthcare, the first 14 days are limited to covering only accidents and life-threatening emergencies. If you have existing healthcare coverage, your Genki policy starts immediately.

Additional Resources

For Journalists: Looking for data, infographics, or insights on global travel insurance trends? Get in touch, and we’ll provide detailed coverage statistics, industry analyses, and resources to support your reporting. We can also provide infographics about hostel trends and backpacker trends.

For Backpackers, Solo Travelers, and Digital Nomads: Explore our travel blog. Sign up for our exclusive guides Pluz for insider advice, coverage hacks, and destination-specific tips.

Note: We update this comparison regularly to ensure you have the most accurate information on travel insurance providers. This guide focuses specifically on coverage options for backpackers, solo travelers, and digital nomads seeking flexible, cost-effective protection. As SafetyWing, Heymondo, Heymondo USA Citizens (Clements), and others roll out new features or adjust their pricing structures, we’ll review and refresh this page so you can make informed, up-to-date decisions.

* Coverage details vary by country, duration, and type of activity. Always read the policy documents carefully before purchasing.

** Our trust scores are subjective ratings based on coverage breadth, claims experience, user feedback, and overall reliability.

Detailed Affiliate Disclaimer: As stated in the beginning, this page contains so-called affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission if you book or purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. Here’s the thing: We do not let commissions decide what we recommend.

Many more travel services and websites would love to be featured here, but we thankfully decline. Why? Because we believe in keeping things simple, useful, and genuinely helpful for travelers like you.

We only feature companies that are reliable, well-reviewed, and that we (or fellow travelers) have actually used and trust. If it’s on this list, it’s because we think it’s worth your time—not because someone paid us to say so. In fact, in our exclusive guides Pluz, we even highlight websites we recommend avoiding when booking your travels.

What’s in it for us? The more helpful we are in planning your trip and finding you great hostels, the more likely you are to come back. And yes, the more you use our site, the more you will book through our links. It’s in our own "selfish" interest to be as genuinely useful as possible — because when you win, we win.

Last Updated: September 2025

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