The travel insurance that’s set to revolutionise digital nomadism

A throwback to when I gave being a digital nomad a go for a week in Krakow, Poland.

The term ‘digital nomad’ is a fairly recent phenomenon, thanks in no small part to the explosion of internet access across the globe and an increase in internet speeds. A couple of years ago I wrote an introduction for “the digital nomad” as part of one of my university assignments.

I looked at the rise of digital nomadism – where people leverage technology in order to work remotely and live an independent and flexible lifestyle. It’s one of the most desirable career choices of the digital age and allows people to not only work, but see the world while they do so. I’ve even toyed with the idea myself before, though as it currently stands, I balance my full-time job with regular, monthly travel.

But if I did want to become a digital nomad – where would I start?

Tbilisi - the capital of the only country in the world to offer 365-day visa-free access to citizens of the United Kingdom.

Well, I’d need to find out which places I could go and stay long enough (Georgia has a 365-day visa, while Estonia is supposed to be releasing a visa specifically for those who want to do location-independent work in the country). I’d also need a viable business in order to cover costs. But there’s something else I’d have to factor in – insurance.

While insurance may seem minor – and it usually is – it is probably one of, if not the most important thing you have to consider while travelling. What could cost relatively little could end up having a massive impact if you face medical bills or maybe cancellations – whether that’s on flights, activities or accommodation.

But while sorting out travel insurance for your average holiday may not be all that difficult, it’s a whole other kettle of fish when you’re trying to insure yourself as a digital nomad. That’s where SafetyWing have you covered.

SafetyWing – the insurance for travellers, by travellers

A typical digital nomad setup in Krakow, Poland.

As someone who’s obsessed with travel and is active in the travel blogging scene, I was delighted to learn about SafetyWing – the travel insurance providers for travellers by travellers. Not only is it great to support those in the travel community, but it is also reassuring to be covered by a team who knows what it means to travel.

People who are location independent fall between the cracks due to various reasons, whether that’s a lack of access to insurance or lack of cover for visitors by nations. SafetyWing, however, are building a global society safety net tailored to the needs of freelancers, entrepreneurs and remote companies.

Currently, SafetyWing are offering travel medical insurance, but they will soon be adding comprehensive health insurance, disability and pension and much more. Here is a flavour of the benefits you can expect:

Buy while you’re abroad: You can sign up for SafetyWing insurance even if your journey has started – and there aren’t many companies who can claim the same.

Automatic monthly payments: From your chosen start date, your insurance will automatically extend until you provide an end date and cancel. It works just like a subscription. If you’re going on a shorter trip or travelling between specific dates, however, you can also take up the insurance the usual way for a fixed duration, starting from five days.

Visiting home is covered: For every 90 day period, you can use your medical coverage for up to 30 days in your home country if something happens while you’re there

Young children are included: Up to one young child per adult and up to two per family, aged between four months and 10 years of age, can be included on your insurance without additional costs.

To find out more about SafetyWing and their innovative insurance, head to their website.