The Best Travel Insurance for Everest Base Camp Trekking - Tristan Balme (2024)

When you’re venturing into extreme altitudes like the Everest Base Camp, it’s vital to have the right travel insurance plan.

Most standard travel insurance policies won’t cover you above 4000m (13,000 ft).

On the Everest Base Camp trek you’ll spend at least 6 days above 4000m and reach a maximum altitude of 5,644m (18,519 ft) above sea level.

Any major injury or altitude sickness could result in evacuation by helicopter. A beautiful trip! But costing up to $10,000 USD. And that’s before you consider the medical expenses at the other end!!

In this post, I’ll share the best insurance for Everest Base Camp Trek, along with who I used when doing the hike earlier this year.

In this blog post, I’ll share 6 of the best companies I found. Some I’ve used myself (on various trips), while others are insights and recommendations of people I met during my travels.

Everest Base Camp Travel Insurance Considerations

Not all travel insurance policies are created equal, especially for high-altitude treks.

A comprehensive plan will cover you in the case of altitude sickness, unpredictable weather, trips slips and falls, and all other risks in between.

Plus, all the best EBC trekking operators will require proof of insurance before taking you up there.

Here are some key considerations I found crucial.

Altitude Coverage

Everest Base Camp sits at an elevation of 5,364 m (17,598 feet) above sea level, and the quest up Kala Patthar (view point) takes you to 5,644m (18,519 ft) above sea level.

Having coverage that extends up to at least 6,000 meters is essential.

High-altitude trekking comes with unique risks, like acute mountain sickness and other altitude-related conditions. Without the right coverage, you could be left footing a hefty medical bill, not to mention the logistical nightmare of getting proper medical care in such remote areas.

Helicopter Rescue

During my trek we saw multiple trekkers get evacuated by helicopter because of severe altitude sickness.

The cost of a helicopter rescue in the Himalayas can easily run into thousands of dollars.

(The price actually goes up based on how high the rescue takes place at and the number of passengers drops due to the machine is working at the edge of its limits)

Having insurance that covers helicopter evacuation is non-negotiable.

In an emergency, the ability to be airlifted quickly can be the difference between life and death. It’s a sobering thought, but one that reinforces just how important the right coverage is.

Medical Coverage

The right insurance should cover not just basic medical care but also the specific risks associated with high-altitude trekking. This includes coverage for hospitalization or even emergency evacuation to a third country if necessary. Without comprehensive medical coverage, you could find yourself in a precarious situation with limited options for care.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

The weather in the Himalayas is notoriously unpredictable. Flights to and from Lukla, the starting point of the trek, are often delayed or canceled because of poor visibility. This can throw your entire itinerary off course. Having insurance that reimburses you for disruptions, like illness or other unforeseen circ*mstances, can save you a lot of stress and money.

Policy Exclusions

It’s easy to skim over the fine print when purchasing insurance, but doing so can lead to unpleasant surprises. Common exclusions might include pre-existing medical conditions, technical climbing, or certain high-risk activities. You wouldn’t want to find yourself on the trek and realize that your policy excludes coverage for helicopter rescues, for example, until it is too late. Knowing exactly what’s covered (and what’s not) ensures you won’t be caught off guard in an emergency.

Duration and Flexibility

Trekking to Everest Base Camp isn’t something you want to rush, and sometimes delays happen. Whether it’s due to weather, health, or simply wanting to spend an extra day soaking in the views, having a flexible insurance policy is key. I made sure my policy allowed for extensions in case I needed more time. This flexibility gave me peace of mind, knowing I was covered no matter how my trek unfolded.

Best Insurance Providers for Everest Base Camp Trek

1. World Nomads (Best overall!)

World Nomads is well-known for its comprehensive travel insurance. Their plans provide robust coverage for medical emergencies, gear protection, and evacuation.

What package you need?
You won’t go wrong with the Explorer Plan. This plan covers you for high-altitude trekking up to 6,000 meters and other extreme activities.

I used World Nomads for my kili trip and paid around $170.

2. True Traveller (Best for UK and EU Residents)

And best if going ABOVE 6000m!

True Traveller offers simple, flexible policies that can be customized for trekking at different altitudes.Their Extreme Adventure Pack is ideal for trekkers heading to Everest Base Camp or even higher altitudes, like Mera Peak (6,476 meters).

Interestingly they have a “trekking in Nepal” package that specifically covers base camp!

Key Info

3. Global Rescue (most comprehensive package for Americans)

Global Rescue excels in emergency evacuation and field rescue, making it a premier choice for those who prioritize safety in remote and dangerous environments like the Himalayas.

If you’re an American resident and looking for peace of mind then this service is probably best for you.

(Although you’ll have to pay a premium for it!)

Their ‘field rescue’ service is renowned as one of the best in the industry. They partner with only the best international healthcare facilities. Plus, their travel insurance also includes a Travel Assistance facility where they’ll take on the job of rebooking, rectifying documents and repatriation.

SafetyWing (Best for Long-Term Travelers)

This Norwegian-based company offers flexible and affordable coverage for long-term travelers and digital nomads. Their services are subscription-based and cover a wide range of scenarios.

What package you need and pricing

I recommend you subscribe to the Remote Health policy. It doesn’t cover anything above 4,500 meters, but it’s still functional.

The policy costs around $85 per month.