Adventure travel insurance: Your essential guide to staying safe and protected during extreme sports activities

July 04, 2024

From the peaks of excitement on a mountaintop to the adrenaline of riding the rapids on a canyon river, the rush of emotions of adventure travel can’t be beat. For those with a bold spirit, this form of recreation comes with a long wish list, with destinations and activities around the world. 

As you plan your next big adventure, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety and protect your finances. Adventure travel insurance is an essential companion for these trips, providing a safety net in case something goes awry, and ensuring you aren’t hit with high unexpected costs and risks. Learn more and get a quote for adventure travel coverage with our International Travel Medical Plus plan and the extreme sports add-on, so you make the most of your next extraordinary experience.

Adventure travel activities: An overview

Does the idea of leaping off the beaten path sound like your kind of vacation? From the heart-pounding rush of bungee jumping, ziplining and parachuting to the sights of hot air balooning, paragliding and mountain climbing, adventure travel offers a range of experiences that push your boundaries and create memories unlike any other. If you love to test your limits, check out these possibilities:

• Trekking and backpacking
  Traveling on foot through rugged terrain and remote areas gives you a ground-level view to flora, fauna and epic scenery. Add on overnight camping, and you can delve deep into parts of the world that are a true and complete escape from modern life. Those who love these sorts of trips list mountain routes such as the Inca Trail of Peru and Kalalau Trail in Hawaii as must-dos.
  
  
• Kayaking and rafting
  Whether a sedate sea paddle in the Greek Isles or a white-knuckle expedition through the rivers of the Colorado Rockies, an adventure on water guarantees a thrilling and picturesque experience. With the help of a local outfitter and guide, you can safely navigate new and fast-moving waterways into pristine canyons and caves you’d never see otherwise.
  
  
• Snorkeling and scuba diving
  Love the idea of exploring what’s under the ocean’s surface? Snorkeling is an easy way in, with many guided boat tours taking you to flourishing destinations filled with reefs and ocean life. If you are experienced or with a dive guide, take it up a notch by challenging yourself with scuba diving, allowing you to go deeper and explore longer.
  
  
• Climbing and snowsports
  Mountain climbing is an incredible experience, and with the right certified guide and equipment, can be done safely. Climbing Kilimanjaro or Mt. Everest is an undertaking that takes a considerable investment, but the bragging rights are beyond compare. For those who love mountains but don’t want the huge expenditure of an expedition, a heli-skiing trip into fresh powder should satisfy a craving for high-altitude snow.

Planning an adventure travel experience

Whether you want to dive immediately into your thrilling odyssey or add cultural and sightseeing moments, careful planning is essential to a safe and fully enjoyable trip. Be sure to:

Research your destination before you book anything. Learn about the local culture, what challenges the climate might add, and determine if current political and social situations might create complications to your travels. In addition, specifically research the activities you are interested in, as well as trusted outfitters, guides and local experts you may want to hire to ensure a successful vacation.

Choose the right activities for you and consider your fitness level, budget, and experience in a given sport. If you’re a beginner at a sport or activity, it’s best to start with lower-level challenges and gradually work your way up to expert situations. Also consider whether you have the time and resources to add dimensions to your experience, such as relaxation and recovery time at a local spa or immersion into local cultural sights.

Stock up on the right gear and pack for all possibilities, including clothing that is appropriate for the climate and possibly specialized to your sport or activity (for instance, the proper gear and layers for climbing high altitudes). Be sure to acquire any necessary safety equipment as well as packing a first-aid kit and medications.

Get in shape before you go, exercising for overall strength and cardio fitness as well as specialized training for your sport. A fitness trainer can help you plan a weeks- or even months-long program to prepare you for that once-in-a-lifetime ascent to a legendary mountaintop with the proper endurance and injury-preventing flexibility.

Be aware of the risks and learn about the experience of other travelers who have made similar trips to the one you are planning. Unexpected weather and political events as well as physical challenges can alter the journey ahead, including altitude sickness, dehydration, or animal attacks. Take steps to protect yourself from these risks, such as drinking plenty of water, easing into high-altitude travel, carrying a whistle or other signaling device, and working with local experts to understand the right preparations and precautions.

Buy adventure travel insurance to help with any accidents, injuries and trip delays or cancellations. The right adventure travel plan will cover both medical costs as well as unanticipated travel expenses, and should be purchased before you depart on your trip for optimal coverage.

Why you need adventure travel insurance

The thrill of adventure travel often comes from its challenges, but it's important to be prepared for the risks involved. Adventure travel insurance is a crucial safety and protection measure for anyone planning to participate in extreme sports activities.  The right plan will provide coverage in case of a medical emergency, trip cancellation or emergency evacuation — all possibilities for this type of trip.

If you are hurt while participating in an extreme activity such as mountain climbing, parachuting, hang-gliding, or white-water rafting, specialized insurance coverage kicks in to ensure you receive appropriate medical attention, compensation for trip disruptions, and assistance with emergency evacuations, regardless of your location. That means if you are on the side of a mountain or the middle of nowhere, emergency transportation will come to you and get you to the care you need.

In addition to protecting you in case of an extreme sports injury, adventure travel insurance can also provide coverage for other activities, such as wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and nature expeditions. Whether you’re exploring dense jungles, traversing rugged terrains, or embarking on cultural experiences, these insurance plans can against potential mishaps or unforeseen circumstances. Comprehensive coverage enhances your overall travel experience, enabling you to travel with security, confidence and the joy of simply enjoying the excitement of the moment.

What to look for in an adventure travel insurance policy

Until you have a few adventure trips under your belt, you may not fully know how to prepare, and what risks you might want to be insured for. Here are a few tips on smart coverage options and policy details to look for, ensuring you have adequate protection for your plans.

Coverage for adventure sports and activities. Ensure a policy you are considering covers the specific adventure sports and activities you plan to participate in. Some policies may have limitations or exclusions for certain high-risk activities, such as mountaineering, scuba diving or skydiving. Make sure the policy clearly states the covered activities and any restrictions.

Medical coverage. Most U.S.-based health care insurance policies do not extend coverage to illness or injury overseas. Since adventure sports come with inherent risks and potential injuries, you will need a policy that provides comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. Consider a policy’s limits and deductibles to ensure they meet your needs.

Trip cancellation and interruption coverage. Unexpected events can disrupt even the best-laid travel plans. Look for a policy that covers trip cancellation and interruption due to covered reasons, such as illness, injury, natural disasters, or travel advisories. Pay attention to the policy’s cancellation and refund terms, including any time restrictions or penalties.

Emergency assistance services. Reliable and responsive emergency assistance is crucial if you get hurt or sick. Choose a policy that provides 24/7 emergency assistance services, including medical advice, coordination of medical care, and assistance with travel arrangements in case of emergencies.

Coverage for adventure travel gear. Adventure sports may require specialized gear and equipment, and can be a big financial investment. Consider a policy that covers loss, damage, or theft of your adventure gear, including sports equipment, clothing and electronics. Some policies may have specific limits or exclusions for certain items, so check the policy details carefully.
Policy limits and deductibles. Pay close attention to a policy’s limits and deductibles. Policy limits determine the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for covered expenses, while deductibles represent the amount you’ll need to pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in. Seek out a policy with limits and deductibles that align with your risk tolerance and budget.

Be sure to read any policy you are considering carefully. Before purchase, be sure you understand what is covered, and pay attention to the terms and conditions, exclusions, and any limitations or restrictions. If you have any questions or concerns, consult with the insurance provider or an insurance professional for clarification. By carefully considering all these factors, you can find the right plan for you, and protect your adventure ahead.

Make safe and smart choices

Want more tips as you plan your bucket-list expedition? Here are a few additional things to keep in mind for during your travels:

Respect your skill level and experience. You don’t know until you actually face that mountain or walk down that jungle path what the true challenges are. As you go, assess your abilities realistically and adapt if you need to. Changing the plan on the go is simply another way to ensure trip enjoyment and success.

Don’t skimp on proper safety equipment. Your local experts may recommend gear you didn’t pack or anticipate needing. Be realistic about what will keep you safer, and use high-quality safety gear specifically designed for the activity you’ll be participating in. This may include helmets, protective clothing, or backup gear just in case. Make sure your equipment fits properly and is in good condition.

Be aware of your surroundings and the risks. As you embark on an activity, refresh yourself on the risks you researched about the extreme sports activity you’ve chosen, and talk yourself through what to do if conditions or situations change. Understand the terrain, weather conditions, and any specific hazards related to the activity.

Stay hydrated and eat regularly. A healthy body is what will get you through this adventure, so support your wellness by maintaining adequate hydration and drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your activity. Have nutritious snacks on hand to keep your energy levels up and prevent fatigue.

Listen to your body and take breaks when you need them. You are testing yourself in extreme conditions that you’re not used to, so pay attention to your physical and mental state. If you feel tired, dizzy, or experience any discomfort, don’t hesitate to take a break or stop an activity altogether. Pushing yourself beyond your limits can increase the risk of accidents.

Pack a first aid kit. When researching your activity and destination, learn what kinds of first aid supplies will be available where you are going. Along with many other helpful tips, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends bringing a simple first aid kit including items such as:

• Bandages, gauze, an ace bandage, cotton-tipped applicators
• Scissors, tweezers, and a digital thermometer
• Antiseptic
• Aloe gel for sunburn
• Oral rehydration solution packets

Prepare for the burn and the bite. Outdoor exposure also exposes you to sunburn and insect bites. Be prepared with an adequate supply of sunscreen that has a high SPF and both UVA and UVB protection, and plan to apply it often. Additionally, make sure to stock up on adequate insect repellent. Research the best insect repellent for your destination and be mindful of use cases.

Buy travel medical and evacuation insurance. Chances are your domestic health plan won’t cover you overseas in the same way it does at home. Depending on your destination and plans, access to medical care may also be limited. A plan like SafeTrip International Travel Medical Plus from UnitedHealthcare Global includes medical evacuation if you can’t be treated where you are. Add-on coverage for extreme sports also is available if mountain climbing in high altitudes, parachuting or other risky activities are part of your itinerary.

Unleash your imagination and start exploring the vast world of possibilities in adventure travel. Keep in mind: The more preparation and planning you do before that mind-bending trip, the more you can be in the moment and savor all the thrills and chills of the experience.