Travel insurance requirements in Nepal is a hot topic of discussion amongst many trekkers arriving here. Tours, trek and travel in Nepal, especially in high-altitude regions like the Himalayas, is an incredible experience. However, it’s crucial to be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. This is where trekking insurance comes in – it provides financial protection in case of medical emergencies, accidents, or other unexpected situations that might arise during your trek.

Why trekking insurance is essential in Nepal?

Medical Expenses: High-altitude medical emergencies can be very expensive. Helicopter evacuation from remote areas can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Trekking insurance can cover these costs, ensuring you receive the necessary medical care without any financial burden.

Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Unexpected events like illness, flight cancellations, or natural disasters can disrupt your trip. Trekking insurance can reimburse you for prepaid trip costs if you’re forced to cancel or cut your trek short.

Search and Rescue: If you get lost or injured on the trail, trekking insurance can cover the cost of search and rescue operations.

Personal Liability: In case you accidentally injure someone or damage property during your trek, trekking insurance can cover the associated liability costs.

How to choose your trekking insurance?

Coverage Limits: Ensure your insurance offers sufficient coverage for medical expenses, repatriation (transporting you back home in case of a medical emergency), trip cancellation, and other potential risks associated with trekking.

Altitude Coverage: Make sure your insurance policy explicitly covers high-altitude trekking at the specific elevation you’ll be reaching during your trek. Some standard travel insurance policies might exclude high-altitude activities.

Activities: Choose a policy that covers the specific activities you plan to do on your trek, such as hiking, climbing peaks, or glacier crossings.

Deductible: The deductible is the amount you’ll pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Choose a deductible you’re comfortable with, considering the overall cost of the insurance policy.

How to find a right trekking insurance?

Compare Quotes: Get quotes from multiple insurance companies to compare coverage and pricing.

Read the Fine Print: Carefully review the policy wording to understand what’s covered and excluded.

Disclose Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Be upfront about any pre-existing medical conditions you have, as these might affect your coverage or eligibility.

Here are some resources to help you find trekking insurance:

• World Nomads: https://www.worldnomads.com/ (specializes in travel insurance for adventure travelers)
• SafetyWing: https://safetywing.com/ (offers various travel insurance plans)
• International SOS: https://www.internationalsos.com/ (travel medical and security services provider, also offers insurance)

Regional insurance provider recommendations:

For the travelers from the United States:

• Travelex Insurance (recommended)
• Worldnomads /Tripmate USA
• Travel Safe Insurance
• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Severn Corner

For the travelers from Canada:

• RBC Travel Insurance
• TuGo Travel Insurance
• Can Assistance
• TIC Travel Insurance
• Allianz canada

For the travelers from the United Kingdom & Europe:

• Racc Spain
• Fedmi Spain
• Europ Assistance (All European)
• Allianz Travel Insurance (Germany, Switzerland)
• Hens Merkur ( Germany )
• Uniqa Insurance (Austria)
• Dog Tag (UK)
• Alpineverein ( Austria,Germany)
• British Mountaineering Council (BMC)

For the travelers from Australia:

• Allianz Travel Insurance
• Cover More
• Budget Direct Travel Insurance
• 1 Cover Travel Insurance (New Zealand)
• Aussie Travel Cover
• Fast Cover New Zealand

For the travelers from Asia and the Middle East:

• Clal Insurance (Israel)
• Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance (Japan)
• Life Card Travel Insurance (Japan)
• Sompo Insurance (Japan)
• Bubblegum Insurance (Singapore)

Note: Remember, trekking insurance is an investment in your safety and peace of mind. By getting proper coverage, you can focus on enjoying your Himalayan adventure with confidence!