Dernière mise à jour le 4 August 2024
You're planning your next surf trip and you're ready to take on the waves. You may be a little nervous, but you've taken the time to plan every detail. But hold on, have you thought about your travel insurance? We're not talking about those basic unforeseen events such as a stomach virus, a missed flight or a lost suitcase.
As surfers, we are exposed to a wide range of hazards much more specific risks clippings driftfractures, even bites from marine animals (we haven't forgotten about them)!
Let's not forget natural disasters. From earthquakes to tsunamis, tropical destinations are not spared (Bali), Sri Lanka, Indonesia, etc...)
For the record, I'm no insurance expert, but as a traveling surfer, I've learned the hard way the importance of choosing the right coverage!
Why you need specialized travel insurance for your Surf Trip
Having the right safety measures in place is not only crucial in the event of a glitch, it also allows you to surf in complete freedom, knowing that your safety is assured. Imagine a scenario where you're injured and a serious medical decision has to be made.
This decision will be based on your insurance coverage. If you're the only person who knows the details of your policy, it's crucial to be able to communicate them quickly to the person trying to help you. So take control of the situation by getting the right information.
No one can tell you which insurance will be best for you, as it depends on many factors such as your country of origin, your travel destination, the spots where you plan to surf, etc.
In conclusion, surfing presents an increased risk of injury, and specialized insurance offers financial protection against the unexpected. Don't overlook this aspect, and make sure you're adequately covered.
Types of travel insurance for your Surf Trip
The market offers a variety of insurance policies, each tailored to specific needs, so it's important to know what you're getting. Most surf travel insurances logically cover all these points, so no stress.
- Full travel and surf insurance : If you're planning to surf the Mexican coast, for example, insurance companies will ask you where you're planning to go to adjust the rate. They include everything from equipment coverage to health care and clauses tailored to that particular location. It's the ideal choice!
- Health insurance : very important, especially if you're venturing into remote areas like Australia's far-flung beaches. In the event of a medical emergency, this insurance covers local medical expenses and repatriation if necessary.
- Equipment insurance : It's crucial to consider insurance for your equipment. Not only for your board, but also for accessories such as your wetsuit and leash. In the event of breakage or theft, such insurance will enable you to continue your adventure without financial inconvenience.
- Travel and cancellation insurance : This type of insurance is vital for dealing with unforeseen events such as flight cancellations, delays or other interruptions. Some policies even offer options for sudden interruption of your stay, compensating you if an event forces you to return home in a hurry.
What you need to prepare before your Surf Trip
The most important element of your safety is choosing the right surf travel insurance, with the right coverage. But it doesn't stop there. Here are a few key points to check before you take off on your surf trip.
- Check out the different insurance coverages: it's crucial to read the fine print of your contract to find out what's covered and what's not. Make sure that the insurance you choose covers not only medical expenses, but also emergency evacuations, cancellations, equipment damage and other risks associated with surfing.
- What are the deductible amounts and co-payments for your insurance? It's a good idea to know how much you're going to have to pay up front, especially depending on your bank balance. The higher the deductible, the lower the price of your insurance, which is logical...
- Know the location of the nearest emergency department: in the event of an accident, every minute counts. Knowing where the nearest emergency service is can make the difference between a happy outcome and a tragic situation.
- Study surf spots before taking to the water: Before getting in the water, find out about the spots you plan to surf. Be aware of potential hazards, such as currents, reefs and marine life, to avoid unpleasant surprises.
- Have a medical first-aid kit : It's always wise to travel with a well-equipped first-aid kit. Make sure it contains essentials such as bandages, disinfectants and pain medication. By being prepared, you can greatly reduce the impact of a minor injury and act quickly in the event of an emergency.
Physical preparation with sport and yoga and logistical preparation are the keys to a successful, trouble-free surf trip! From travel insurance to knowledge of your surroundings, every detail counts to ensure your safety and well-being.
Items usually covered by Surf Trip insurance
It's crucial to understand that every travel insurance policy is different, and may not cover every situation you might encounter on a surf trip. Here's an overview of the coverage generally offered:
- Medical expenses and coverage : If you are injured or fall ill during your surf trip, this clause is essential. It covers the medical costs associated with your treatment.
- Medical evacuation : Particularly important if you surf in remote areas without easy access to a major hospital. This option is not always included and may require a special addition to your insurance policy.
- Civil liability : This coverage compensates third parties in the event of damage caused by you, whether in a car accident or another incident on the water.
- Cancellation insurance : It protects you financially if you have to cancel your trip for a valid reason.
- Dental expenses following an accident : Yes, getting a surfboard in your teeth is a possibility. This clause may prove useful.
- Luggage and boardbag protection: Covers loss or damage to your luggage and surf equipment.
- Protection of equipment in the event of breakage : This often extends to the trip itself, but can also, in some cases, cover damage incurred while surfing.
- Theft and miscellaneous losses : Items such as your passport, money, credit card and telephone are often included.
- Accidental death, loss of income and disability : Clauses are often included to protect you against the darkest scenarios.
Even if surfing is included as an "extreme sport", exceptions may apply. Some insurers exclude professional athletes or stipulate that the sport must be practiced under supervision.
We strongly recommend that you read all the Product Disclosure Statements carefully, and don't simply opt for the basic package. You could end up bitterly regretting it, especially on a stretcher in the emergency room.
Once you've taken all these things into account, if you're still up for a surf trip, you can read on. It's always best to be prepared, because even if you've never encountered any problems, every surf trip is different and comes with its own risks and challenges.
Personally, I've never had anything happen to me apart from a broken nose, but we've all heard a story...
What surfing travel insurance may not cover
It's also crucial to know what is generally not included in travel insurance for surf trips. Here are a few things that may not be covered:
- Household medical expenses and pre-existing medical conditions : Medical conditions you had before your trip that you did not declare may not be covered.
- Cosmetic and aesthetic dental treatments : These treatments are generally considered non-essential and are therefore rarely included.
- Expenses already covered by third-party healthcare agreements : Some medical expenses may already be covered by other forms of insurance or national healthcare systems.
- Failure to notify insurer immediately after hospitalization : Failure to inform your insurer immediately in the event of hospitalization may result in cancellation of your coverage.
- Illegal or reckless actions: Illegal acts or reckless behavior are generally not covered.
- Non-compliance with medical advice or the insurer's instructions : If you don't follow your insurer's medical recommendations or guidelines, you could lose your coverage.
- Lack of reasonable precautions: This includes behaviors such as not getting vaccinated or not wearing a helmet when riding a motorcycle.
Once again, I repeat (for your own good), it's imperative to read the terms and conditions of your insurance contract carefully to understand what's covered and what's not.
Some examples of critical situations without surf travel insurance
It's essential to be aware of the risks associated with a surf trip without adequate insurance. Here are a few case studies (scenarios I created from scratch...) that illustrate the importance of proper coverage:
- Lakey Peak in Sumbawa: Small local hospitals in Indonesia are often unable to treat serious injuries. A severe injury at Lakey Peak will require a transfer to Dompu, and if the situation is still unresolved, the next stop will be Bali or even Singapore. Without insurance covering medical evacuation, the costs can add up quickly.
- Tamarindo in Costa Rica : A surfer, without medical insurance, suffered food poisoning requiring hospitalization. The cost amounted to hundreds of thousands of Colons, or around 1,000 euros per day. A simple meal can therefore become an exorbitant expense in the absence of insurance.
- Playa Colorado in Nicaragua : Even with comprehensive insurance, exclusions can be a problem. An injured surfer at Playa Colorado had insurance, but it didn't cover certain medical evacuation situations. Local helicopters, busy with expensive sightseeing tours, were not required to render assistance to the injured surfer, complicating his treatment...
These examples show that specialized travel insurance for surf trips is not only recommended, but often essential to deal with unforeseen events and complications.
G1G: for whippersnappers and multi-skilled practitioners
Why choose G1G
Looking for travel insurance that really understands you as a surfer? G1G Insurance is the obvious choice. This specialist company doesn't just cover the basics; it goes beyond by offering a diverse range of sports covered, from surfing to diving to bungee jumping.
The best part? You can customize your level of extreme sports coverage online. In fact, with G1G Insurance, everything is designed to simplify your life, including the possibility of purchasing your insurance plan in just a few clicks.
And if you're ever in doubt about the ideal cover for your next adventure, a consultant is on hand to guide you. Tailor-made, comprehensive coverage and personalized support - that's travel insurance from G1G Insurance.
Insurance price
Prices vary according to destination, package and level of practice. We recommend that you visit the site directly!
What G1G covers in more detail
Personalized pricing and family coverage :
- Prices adapted to your sport and adventure activities.
- Coverage for individuals and the whole family
Medical benefits :
- Medical benefits of either €475,000 or €950,000.
Emergency Medical Evacuation :
- 950,000 in emergency medical evacuation protection.
- These elements complete the summary of insurance coverage.
Main features :
- Affordable, reliable coverage.
- Comprehensive coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical care and post-trip coverage.
- Up to €47,500 in emergency medical cover and €190,000 in emergency evacuation cover.
- Coverage in the event of a missed connection.
Medical and dental insurance :
- Covers emergency medical, surgical and dental expenses if you become ill or are accidentally injured during your trip. Coverage is in excess of your standard coverage.
- 10-day free trial: Refund of premium if not satisfied and if the trip has not started and no claim has been filed.
- 712.50 baggage delay cover.
Travel Assistance Services :
- Emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of mortal remains, transport after stabilization, visit by a family member or friend, return of dependent children, return of travel companion.
Travel Support Services :
- Medical monitoring, convalescent hotel arrangements, medical and dental research, advance of emergency medical expenses, assistance with replacement of medication, medical devices and eyeglasses, transfer of insurance information and medical records, assistance with emergency travel arrangements, interpretation/translation, locating lost or stolen items, advance of emergency funds.
Uninsured Personal Assistance Services :
- Pre-trip information, interpretation/translation, legal reference/bonding, emergency cash advance.
Additional services by Trawick International :
- Concierge services and access to the Trawick International assistance application.
Trip Cancellation and Interruption :
- Illness, injury or death, complications of pregnancy, transfer of employment, revoked military leave, call to emergency duty, inclement weather, terrorist incident, victim of assault, theft of passport or visa, quarantine, court summons, interruption of public services at destination, traffic accident, mechanical breakdown of carrier, strike.
Not covered by G1G
- No travel protection: This option must be purchased separately as an add-on.
- Limited customized offers : Your coverage is specific to your chosen extreme sport (for example, surfing). Other extreme sports will not be covered if you have not included them.
- Special packages : If you opt for the snowboard package, it doesn't mean you're also covered for surfing. Check the list to find out which level of activity is riskier than the other, so that you're covered for both.
Seven Corners: insurance for surfers
Why choose Seven Corner
Seven Corners is a well-known and respected brand in travel insurance, offering extensive coverage that also extends to surfers. Although their offering is not exclusively designed for surfers, the thoroughness of their coverage makes them a solid choice in this sector.
What particularly sets Seven Corners apart is its commitment to the surfing community. The brand goes beyond simply providing insurance, writing relevant articles and taking a customer-centric approach. Indeed, it is one of the few players in the industry to truly put itself in the shoes of surfers, making it a top choice for this community.
Seven Corners insurance prices
Between 70 and 100 euros (for a 25-year-old) depending on your needs for 30 days in Bali, for example
- 100,000 covered and 0 deductible: 70 Euros
- 2,000,000 covered and costs fully covered: 100 Euros
→ You absolutely must add "Adventure Activities", for an extra 12 Euros.
What Seven Corners covers
For the 100 Euros cover :
Protecting your health :
- Co-insurance: 100%
- Hospital care and treatment: Covered up to the medical maximum
- COVID-19 treatment: Covered up to medical maximum
- Emergency visit: Covered up to the medical maximum
- Emergency care: Covered up to the medical maximum
- Medical teleconsultations: Covered up to the medical maximum
- Physiotherapy & Chiropractic: €47.50 per visit, up to 10 visits
- Local ambulance: Covered up to medical maximum
- Daily hospital allowance: €142.50 per day, up to 30 days
- Extension of benefits in country of origin: €9,500
- Occasional trips to home country: €9,500
- Penalty for failure to pre-certify in the United States: 25% reduction in expenses covered for failure to pre-certify
Pre-existing conditions :
- 14 days - 64 years: €47,500
- 65 - 79 years: €9,500
- 80 and over: N/A
Others :
- Terrorist activities: €23,750
- Dental - Sudden pain relief: €190
- Dental - Accident: €475
- Emergency eye examination: €95
- Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation: €475,000
- Emergency medical meeting: €190 per day, up to €1,900 and €47,500 for 10 days
- Bedside visit: €950
- Children's return: €47,500
- Return of mortal remains: €47,500
- Local burial or cremation: €47,500
Protecting your travel expenses :
- Trip interruption: €4,750
- Travel delay: €95 per day, up to 2 days per occurrence
Protecting your property:
- Loss of checked baggage: €47.50 per item, up to €475 per occurrence
- Loss or theft of travel documents: €95
Other benefits :
- Evacuation in the event of a natural disaster: €23,750
- Daily allowance for natural disasters: €95 per day, up to 5 days
- Political evacuation and repatriation: €9,500
Death and disability :
- 14 days - 18 years: €4,750
- 19 and over: €23,750
- Overall limit: €237,500
Personal liability :
- 47 500 €
24/7 travel assistance services :
- Included
What Seven Corners doesn't cover
Some destinations are not covered by travel insurance and the Adventure Activities extension. You'll find out when you finalize your booking.
Satefy Wing: for surfers and digital nomads
Why choose Satefy Wing
Safety Wing is a travel insurance company that particularly stands out in the surf travel niche, thanks to its specific offerings such as Nomad Insurance and Remote Health Insurance. The company's great strength lies in the flexibility of its payment plans, which can easily be extended or reduced as required.
In addition to their flexibility, Safety Wing offers an exceptional user experience thanks to an easy-to-use website and online services. What makes this company unique is its dedicated health insurance proposition, particularly useful for those planning to live abroad for an extended period, whether for a university semester or an internship.
Insurance price
85 Euros per month for 30 days (for a person aged between 10 and 39), including sports such as surfing and protection of electronic devices.
→ You must select "Adventure sport" and "Electronics theft".
What Safety Wing covers
- Sports and Activities: You are covered for participation in amateur/non-professional sports and activities for recreational purposes related to a trip. Conditions apply, such as wearing appropriate safety equipment at all times.
- Hospitalization: Hospital room and nursing care covered.
- Emergency care: No co-payment for emergency care outside the USA.
- Emergency Quarantine Allowance - COVID-19: 50 $ per day for up to 10 days if you are quarantined.
- Loss or Theft of Passport/Travel Visa: Reimbursement of up to 100 $ for replacement.
- Travel Delay: Up to 100 $ per day after a 12-hour delay necessitating an unscheduled stay.
- Lost Checked Baggage: Up to 3,000 $ per certificate period; 500 $ per item.
In detail :
General covers :
- Overall maximum limit: $250,000 (65-69 years: $100,000)
- Maximum limit per injury/illness: $250,000 (65-69 years: $100,000)
- Deductible: $250 per certificate period
- Coinsurance: 100% of eligible expenses after deductible
Medical care :
- Hospital room: Average semi-private room rate
- Intensive care unit: Up to overall maximum limit
- Local ambulance: Usual, reasonable and customary charges
Emergency :
- Emergency room (United States): Co-payment of $100
- Emergency room (outside the U.S.): No co-payment
- Urgent care center (United States): Co-payment of $50
- Urgent care center (outside the U.S.): No co-payment
Other treatments :
- Physiotherapy and chiropractic: Up to $50 per day
- Emergency Dental: Up to $1,000
- Emergency eye examination: Up to $150
Pre-existing conditions :
- Acute onset of pre-existing condition: Up to overall maximum limit
Special events :
- Terrorism: Up to $50,000
- Emergency medical evacuation: Up to $100,000
- Repatriation of remains: Up to $20,000
- Political evacuation: Up to $10,000
Civil liability :
- Personal liability: Up to $25,000
- Injury to third party: $25,000
- Third-party property: $25,000
- Associated property: $2,500
Additional covers :
- Trip interruption: Up to $5,000
- Accidental Death & Dismemberment: Up to $25,000
- Lost baggage: Up to $3,000
- Travel delay: Up to $100 per day
- Lost or stolen passport/Visa: Up to $100
What Safety Wing doesn't cover
- General exclusions : Expenses arising directly or indirectly from anything in the general exclusions are not covered.
- Excluded activities : Certain sports and activities are excluded, such as paragliding, cave diving and kite-surfing.
- Pre-existing conditions : Pre-existing medical conditions are not covered, except in very specific cases.
- Insurance Other : No claim will be paid if there is another insurance policy that would pay the claim.
- Country of origin : Coverage does not apply in your home country, except under very specific conditions.
- Professional activities : Sports activities carried out in a professional capacity or for pay, reward or profit are not covered.
Insured Nomad: the choice of simplicity
Why choose Insured Nomad
Insured Nomads has established itself as the travel insurance provider of choice, particularly for surfers.
Thanks to an innovative approach, the company eliminates all the uncertainties often associated with surf-oriented travel. Whether you're a professional surfer or an amateur, the two insurance plans on offer cover surfing without the need for additional coverage.
To make your experience even smoother, Insured Nomads offers an intuitive mobile app and a prepaid credit card for easy management of medical care and payments when needed (and we love that).
This application also provides instant support by locating the nearest doctor or medical facility.
Insured Nomads makes travel insurance simple, reliable and perfectly tailored to your surfing needs.
Insured Nomad insurance prices
Between 150 and 200 euros (for a 25-year-old) depending on your needs for 30 days in Bali, for example
- 250,000 covered and expenses fully covered: 150 Euros
- 2,000,000 covered and costs fully covered: 200 Euros
→ You absolutely must choose "Adventures Sports & Marine Activities".
What Insured Nomad covers
Adventurous Sports Activities :
- Purpose: Designed for leisure and exciting experiences.
- Risk level: Medium.
- Prerequisites: For some sports, training, experience and certification from a recognized agency are required.
Marine Activities :
- Increased medical coverage: Medical coverage limits are higher for water sports.
- Insurance limits by age:
- 14 to 49 years: $100,000
- 50 to 64 years: $50,000
- 65 to 69 years: $10,000
- Equipment coverage: Up to $2,000
- Eligible transport costs (not subject to deductible) :
- Emergency medical evacuation :
- 14-69 years: $1,000,000 or the maximum benefit, whichever is lower
- 70-79 years: $100,000 or maximum benefit
- 80 and over: No benefit
- Emergency meeting: $100,000 (15 days max)
- Bedside visit: $1,500
- Repatriation of mortal remains: $100,000 or $5,000 (instead of repatriation of mortal remains)
- Minor(s) return: $100,000
- Trip interruption: $10,000
- Daily allowance for natural disasters: $500/day (max. 5 days)
- Natural disaster evacuation: $25,000
- Political evacuation and repatriation: $100,000
- Emergency pet transport: $1,000
- Emergency medical evacuation :
- Flat-rate services :
- Accidental death :
- 14-17 years: $1,250
- 18-69 years: $25,000
- 70-74 years: $12,500
- 75 and over: $5,000
- Accidental stripping :
- Loss of 1 limb or eye: 50% of benefit in the event of accidental death
- Loss of more than 1 limb or eye: 100% of benefit in the event of accidental death
- Accidental death :
- Personal property coverage :
- Lost checked baggage: $50 per item (max $500)
- Combined limit of personal liability: $25,000
Additional comments
- A qualified instructor must accompany certain sports.
What Insured Nomad doesn't cover
Sports competitions and professional practice (like most insurance), diving to depths of over 10 meters and "extreme" sports.
Allianz Voyage: assistance and proximity
Why choose Allianz Voyage
Allianz Voyage, a subsidiary of the Allianz SE Group established in 1890, offers a range of cover for travellers, including surfers. The company offers comprehensive coverage for various travel-related risks, including flight delays and health crises such as epidemics and pandemics. In the event of flight delays, Allianz Voyage covers hotel and catering expenses.
In addition, a baggage insurance option is available to cover costs associated with lost or damaged baggage. The aim is to provide insurance that addresses the various needs and unforeseen events that surfers may encounter while traveling.
Allianz Travel insurance prices
For a 25-year-old traveling to Bali for 30 days, the cost of vacation insurance without cancellation covering a single trip is €100.28. Depending on your specific needs, this amount can vary between €100 and €200.
What Allianz Voyage covers
- Cancellation or modification: up to €8,000 per insured person
- Missed transport: up to €2,000 per insured person
- Damage to baggage (including loss and theft): Up to €3,000 per insured
- Trip interruption: up to €8,000 per insured person
- Third-party liability abroad: up to €4.5 million
- Sports and leisure liability: up to €150,000
- Transport delays: Up to €500 for all policyholders
- Excess buy-back for leased vehicles: up to €3,000
- Trip extension: Up to €150 per day per insured for 5 days
- Emergency medical expenses abroad: up to €200,000 (€300,000 in the USA and Canada)
- Medical assistance: Actual costs for emergency evacuation, medical repatriation, etc.
- Search and Rescue: Up to €10,000
- Travel assistance: Various ceilings depending on the type of expense
What Allianz Voyage does not cover
- People whose main residence is outside France
- Trips of more than 60 consecutive days
- Intentional or fraudulent misconduct
- Pre-existing medical conditions: Excluded if diagnosed within 6 months prior to travel.
- Professional or semi-professional sports: Not covered, including training sessions.
- Risky activities: Excluded (e.g. deep-sea diving, kite-surfing, ski jumping, etc.).
- Armed conflicts, military service, political risks: Not covered.
- Epidemics or pandemics: Covered, unless otherwise stated.
- Expenses incurred without the insurer's prior agreement
- Voluntary termination of pregnancy, childbirth
- Non-compliance with official prohibitions
- Expenses not mentioned as refundable
In short, choosing your travel insurance should be as carefully considered as choosing your next surfing destination. For thrill-seekers, G1G Insurance stands out for its specialization in various sports, including surfing, and offers extensive online personalization.
Looking for flexibility and coverage tailored to the lifestyle of digital nomads? Safety Wing is made for you, with its flexible payment plans and simplified user interface.
Insured Nomadsis all about simplicity and efficiency, not least thanks to its mobile application. It's not for nothing that their motto could be "a well-informed surfer is worth two".
Finally, for those looking for a more localized solution, with a complete range of cover options, Allianz Voyage offers a reassuring option with its assistance in the event of various risks, including epidemics.
So, whether you're an extreme surfer or a digital nomad, a globetrotter or simply a traveler looking for peace of mind, these insurance options offer a range to suit everyone. The trick is to choose the one that suits you best. And now, the ball's in your court!
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