What is backpacker travel insurance?
A gap year, study-abroad programme or extended trip overseas can be the adventure of a lifetime. Backpacker travel insurance helps protect you from unexpected events while you're away, providing cover for emergency medical expenses, cancellation costs, loss of personal belongings or money and a range of other travel-related risks.
Backpacking insurance is available as a single-trip policy for leisure travel, study and incidental work, covering a single trip that begins and ends in the Republic of Ireland. It is designed for longer journeys abroad, unlike annual multi-trip travel insurance, which covers multiple shorter trips throughout the year.
Before your travel 
Backpacker travel insurance is available to residents of the Republic of Ireland. Your trip must begin and end in the Republic of Ireland and you must have arranged your return journey before you leave.
Good to know
- Cancellation cover begins from the date you buy your policy. All other cover starts when your trip begins and continues for the period shown on your policy schedule.
- If you change your mind, you can cancel your policy at any time. If you cancel within 14 days of purchase and have not travelled or made a claim, you may receive a full refund subject to the policy conditions. Different cancellation terms apply after this period.
Why standard travel insurance may not be enough
While standard travel insurance may suit a short getaway, backpacker travel insurance is designed for the unique demands of longer trips abroad. If you're travelling long-term, studying abroad or taking part in incidental work, it's important to choose insurance that's designed for the way you travel.
Backpacker travel insurance offers cover for trips of up to six months, helping you stay protected as your adventure unfolds. From a single destination to a multi-country itinerary, giving you access to support if you need it while travelling.
Why backpackers need specialist travel insurance?
Travelling for longer periods
Longer trips can come with added uncertainty. Backpacker travel insurance can help protect you against the unexpected, providing support throughout your time abroad.
Visiting multiple countries on one trip
Many backpackers visit several destinations as part of one adventure. Specialist cover can help ensure you are protected as you travel between countries and explore new places.
Managing unexpected travel disruptions
From cancellations and delays to lost belongings, unexpected disruptions can affect your plans. Having the right cover can help reduce the impact and provide support when you need it.
Backpacker cover for extended journeys abroad
The best trips don't always go to plan. A detour can become a highlight, and an unexpected stop can turn into a lasting memory. Backpacker travel insurance is designed to help you enjoy the adventure while staying protected throughout your travels.
What's covered by backpacking insurance?
24-hour emergency medical assistance
Medical emergencies can happen at any time, with 24-hour emergency medical assistance available if you need urgent help while travelling. The assistance team can help arrange medical support, contact hospitals and assist with medically necessary travel arrangements. Call on +44 20 8137 3648.
Travel delay and missed departures
Travel doesn't always go according to plan. Delays, cancellations and missed connections can cause disruption along the way. Cover for travel delays can help with unexpected costs and provide support when your journey is interrupted.
Baggage delay
If your baggage is delayed for more than 12 hours on your outward journey, you may be able to claim for essential replacement items, subject to the policy terms and limits.
Medical evacuation and air ambulance support
Access to medical care can vary depending on where you are travelling. In serious situations, medical evacuation or air ambulance transport may be required to help you reach appropriate treatment. Depending on your policy, this support may be available when needed.
Personal accident and personal liability cover
Accidents can happen anywhere, especially when exploring unfamiliar destinations. Personal accident and personal liability cover can help provide protection if you are injured or become responsible for causing accidental damage or injury to others.
Passport replacement assistance
A lost or stolen passport can quickly turn into a stressful situation when you're away from home. If your passport is lost, stolen or damaged while abroad, this cover may help with emergency travel documents and certain additional travel and accommodation expenses needed to continue your journey or return home.
What’s not covered by backpacker cover?
- Travel against Department of Foreign Affairs advice.
- Known events that could reasonably affect your trip.
- Certain pre-existing medical circumstances.
- Activities listed as excluded in the policy document.
Who should consider backpacker travel insurance?
Backpackers planning extended trips abroad
Travellers taking a gap year
Students studying overseas
Multi destination travellers
Independent long-term travellers
Adventurous travellers seeking longer cover
Cover options for backpacking across Europe, Asia and beyond
You can choose cover for Europe, Worldwide excluding the USA, or Worldwide including the USA, depending on your travel plans. Check your policy schedule for the area covered.
Travelling around Europe
Europe is packed with popular backpacking destinations, from vibrant cities and historic landmarks to hidden gems waiting to be explored. Backpacker travel insurance can help protect you as your plans evolve along the way.
Backpacking in Asia
Asia continues to attract backpackers with its diverse cultures, iconic sights and well-travelled routes. A little preparation before you set off can help make the journey smoother when plans don't go as expected.
An American adventure
North America offers endless opportunities for backpackers, from major cities to unforgettable road trips. The right protection can help you navigate unexpected setbacks during your travels.
Cover for multi-country travel
One of the greatest appeals of backpacking is the freedom to keep moving. With new destinations and unexpected discoveries around every corner, having suitable cover in place can help you travel with reassurance throughout your trip.
Understanding local healthcare systems abroad
Research healthcare options before travelling.
Keep emergency contacts easily accessible.
Know how to access medical support abroad.
Get a backpackers insurance quote
For your next journey. Get a quick quote in just a few steps:
1. Fill in your details e.g. name, email address.
2. Enter your travel details and choose 'Backpackers trip’.
3. Enter traveller details for each person and if you/they have private medical insurance.
4. Your personalised quote will be ready to view.
You can then add optional cover such as winter sports and scuba diving to your quote.
Planning a gap year or long-term adventure
Long-term travel offers the freedom to explore beyond the typical tourist trail, connect with local cultures and embrace new experiences at your own pace. With so much to discover, planning can help you make the most of every moment, particularly if you're travelling solo.
Travel insurance for gap year students
A gap year offers the chance to take a break from routine and experience something different. Whether your plans involve travel, volunteering or studying abroad, it's worth thinking ahead before you set off.
Backpacking after college or university
Finishing college or university often marks the start of a new adventure. Backpacking can be a great way to broaden your horizons, discover new cultures and create memories before taking the next step.
Cover for extended holidays and sabbaticals
An extended holiday or sabbatical gives you the opportunity to spend more time discovering new places and less time rushing from one destination to the next. With the freedom to stay longer and wander further, every destination has the chance to leave a lasting impression.
What to consider before you leave
Check visa, passport and entry requirements.
Keep important documents accessible.
Understand what your travel insurance includes.
Important travel documents and preparation
The best backpacking trips often leave room for spontaneity. A little preparation before you leave can make all the difference.
Backpacking risks and tips
Knowing the potential risks and taking simple precautions can help you have a safer backpacking experience.
Common risks backpackers may face abroad
Flight cancellations and missed connections
Quarantine and unexpected travel changes
Lost, stolen or damaged belongings
Medical emergencies while travelling
Car rental excess considerations
Backpacking tips for safer travel
Keeping valuables secure
Staying connected during emergencies
Researching destinations before you travel
Knowing when to seek emergency assistance
Claims tip
If your belongings are lost or stolen while travelling, report the incident to the local police as soon as possible and obtain written confirmation to support a claim.
Why choose Aviva backpacker travel insurance?
Aviva backpacker travel insurance is designed to support longer journeys abroad, with flexible cover options to suit different travel plans and destinations.
- Cover for backpacking trips up to six months
- Designed for multi-country travel and changing itineraries
- 24-hour emergency assistance while you’re abroad
- Protection for medical emergencies, travel disruption and loss of belongings
Backpacker insurance FAQs
Get answers to common questions about backpacker travel insurance, helping you understand your cover, policy details and what to expect before you travel.
Understanding your cover
How long can backpacker travel insurance cover me?
Can I buy backpacker travel insurance after I leave Ireland?
Can I travel anywhere?
Managing unexpected situations
What happens if I need to return home early?
What should I do if my passport is lost abroad?
Protecting your belongings
How can I protect my valuables while backpacking?
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