Travel insurance for tours: is it really necessary?

Let’s cut to the chase. G Adventures isn’t just selling trips around the world — we’re crafting stories, meaningful connections, and experiences that stick with you long after you’ve unpacked. Sure, travel insurance doesn’t sound as exciting as spotting penguins in Patagonia or sharing street food in Vietnam, but it’s the one thing that can save your trip (and your wallet) if the unexpected strikes.

Travel insurance is not just something G Adventures recommends — it’s something we require. That might sound a little formal for a company known for its adventurous, friendly vibe, but it’s not about red tape. It’s about making sure you’re protected if the unexpected shows up in your itinerary.

Having the right travel insurance for your G Adventures tour means you can focus on the good kind of surprises, knowing you’re covered for the not-so-good kind. Nothing kills the buzz faster than getting stranded without help in a far-flung land. Travel insurance might not be the most exciting thing you pack for your trip, but it might be the most important.

G Adventures’ insurance requirements

Here’s the non-negotiable: G Adventures requires every traveller to have a travel insurance policy.

Mandatory insurance coverage

Your travel insurance policy must cover at least US$200,000 for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. This isn’t just a random figure — we’ve seen enough real-life situations to know that costs can rise quickly, especially in remote locations. Emergency evacuation alone can run into tens of thousands of dollars, and that’s before you factor in any medical care you might need. When you arrive for your tour, your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will ask to see your proof of insurance. No documentation, no go — it’s as simple as that.

Pro tip: Keep a digital copy of your insurance policy and your provider’s emergency contact info saved on your phone and on paper. Wi-fi isn’t a sure thing in remote areas.

Recommended additional coverage

The required coverage gets you through the door, but it’s worth thinking beyond the basics. After all, this is adventure travel, where the terrain laughs in the face of predictability. Depending on your G Adventures travel style and destination, we strongly recommend that you consider adding:

– Personal liability: in case you accidentally cause injury or property damage
– Trip cancellation or curtailment: if illness, emergencies, or other events force you to change your plans
– Loss of luggage or personal effects: for when your stuff decides to go on its own vacation
– Activity-specific coverage: for trekking, climbing, diving, and other adventure sports

Not every insurance policy includes coverage for adventurous activities by default, so check your plan carefully if your G Adventures tour includes anything more active than sightseeing.

Don’t forget: “Adventure travel insurance” isn’t just a marketing phrase — it’s a reminder to make sure your policy matches your itinerary. If you’re climbing a glacier, your insurer needs to know about it before your crampon hits the ice.

Why is travel insurance essential?

Adventure travel is exciting because it’s not entirely predictable. The same factors that make it memorable can also make it riskier than a beach vacation. That’s why G Adventures treats insurance as essential, not optional.

Medical and rescue costs can be high

If an accident happens in a remote area, you might need local treatment and transport to a better-equipped facility. In some cases, that means a helicopter or private plane. These costs add up quickly and, without insurance, they’re your responsibility. A US$200,000 policy might sound like overkill — until it isn’t.

Your gear isn’t just luggage

For many travellers, equipment is part of the adventure: cameras, hiking boots, snorkelling gear, and laptops for keeping in touch. If these items are lost or stolen, replacing them can be expensive, especially if you’re far from home. Adventure travel insurance can help cover these costs and keep the trip intact if your gear goes rogue.

Plans can change — fast

Bad weather, airline delays, personal emergencies… there are lots of ways your plans can take an unexpected detour. With trip cancellation coverage, you can recover some or all of your non-refundable expenses instead of taking a complete loss.

Reality check: Travel insurance doesn’t stop problems from happening, but it does stop them from emptying your bank account.

How to choose the right travel insurance

When you’re comparing options for travel insurance for G Adventures' group tours, look for a policy that matches your trip’s itinerary.

Destination-specific coverage

Some insurance policies exclude certain countries or regions. Make sure all the countries you’re visiting are covered, especially if your itinerary crosses borders.

Activity-specific coverage

Not all policies automatically cover adventurous activities. If your trip includes trekking, diving, cycling, or similar activities, confirm that your policy includes them. If not, ask about adding them.

Duration of coverage

Your coverage should start the day you leave home and end on the day you return. G Adventures trips often include pre- and post-tour travel days, so don’t forget to include those in your policy.

Pro tip: If you’re adding a personal trip before or after your G Adventures tour, make sure your policy covers the entire travel window, not just the official tour dates.

Using credit card insurance

Some travellers rely on insurance that comes with a premium credit card. This can be a good option, but only if you confirm it meets G Adventures’ requirements.

– Proof is key. You need your insurer’s name, policy number, and confirmation that you have at least US$200,000 in medical, evacuation, and repatriation coverage.
– Know the details. Credit card coverage can have restrictions based on how the trip was paid for, trip length, or the type of activities. Don’t get caught out by a lack of research.
– Check emergency contact information. Make sure you know who to call and how to reach them if you need help during your trip.

If you plan to use your card’s coverage, call your bank well in advance to confirm and to request written proof for your CEO on the first day of your tour.

Heads up: Some credit card policies kick in only if you paid for the entire trip on the card. Splitting costs with friends or using points might reduce your coverage.

FAQs about G Adventures travel insurance

Still have questions about travel insurance? We've got answers.

Is travel insurance required for all G Adventures tours?

Yes. Every traveller must have a policy covering at least US$200,000 for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. Show it on the first day of your tour, or you won’t be able to continue.

Do I need insurance for my G Adventures trip?

Absolutely. It’s part of the booking requirements and ensures you’re financially protected if something unexpected happens. It’s not just a box to tick — it’s your ticket to ride.

What should my travel insurance cover?

At a minimum, it must include medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. Optional extras, such as trip cancellation, personal liability, and lost luggage coverage, are highly recommended.

Can I use credit card insurance for G Adventures?

Yes, as long as it meets the minimum requirements and you can provide proof of coverage. Always double-check your policy details before relying on it.

How much does travel insurance cost?

Probably less than you think. The cost depends on how long you’ll be away and what you want to include. Adding extras such as trip cancellation and interruption (often called “all-inclusive insurance”) is based on the total value of everything you’re covering: your tour, flights, hotel nights, and other prepaid services.

Example (in USD) for a 10-day tour valued at $1,000, plus $1,000 in airfare:

– Medical insurance only for 10 days: about $81
– All-inclusive insurance (medical plus cancellation) for $2,000 total coverage: about $183

Rates shown are for travellers aged 54 or under and are for example purposes only. Actual costs may vary based on your age, trip details, and provider.

What if I forget to buy travel insurance before my trip?

If you arrive without proof of insurance, you won’t be able to join the tour. Some travellers have had to buy emergency policies at the starting point, but options may be limited and more expensive. It’s best to arrange your adventure travel insurance long before departure.