A bicycle ride is a wonderful way to explore somewhere new. No wonder there are so many bicycle tours that explore everywhere from Italy’s wine country to the most popular national parks in the United States. But what if you want to get off the beaten path and get your adrenaline pumping a little more?
If you’re planning a mountain biking trip, it’s important that you have a travel insurance policy in place — one that covers adventure sports including mountain biking. Here’s what you need to know about mountain biking insurance, both for domestic and international travel.
Top mountain biking destinations
Canada
With its dramatic landscapes and expansive unspoiled wilderness, it’s no wonder Canada is a top mountain biking destination. British Columbia is the undisputed hotspot, with world-famous trails in Whistler, Kamloops, and on Vancouver Island.
Italy is a popular mountain biking destination, thanks to its varied scenic terrain. You can wind your way through limestone seaside cliffs in Sardinia, cycle in the shadow of the Dolomites, or pedal past World War I monuments on MTB trails in the Trentino-South Tyrol region.
Some of the world’s greatest mountain biking destinations may be in your own backyard. Traverse the desert landscapes of Utah and Arizona, challenge yourself to some high-altitude biking in Colorado, or explore Vermont’s forested tracks.
Norway
Especially during the famously long summer days, mountain bikers from all over the world flock to Norway for challenging biking, complemented by incredible mountain views. Discover single-track courses or bike down off-season ski slopes.
What does mountain biking travel insurance cover?
With a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes coverage for mountain biking adventures, you’ll be able to pedal with peace of mind. Note that most travel insurance plans exclude professional mountain biking. Here’s what a mountain biking travel insurance policy typically covers:
- Sports equipment coverage: if your bike (or other luggage) is damaged, lost, or delayed, your insurance policy may reimburse you up to a specific dollar amount as outlined in your policy.
- Travel medical insurance: mountain biking isn’t without risk and if you’re traveling internationally, your everyday health insurance may not cover medical expenses if you’re injured in an accident or if you fall ill during your trip. When you purchase travel insurance, you have coverage for emergency medical care you may need to seek, including medical evacuation in case of serious injury.
- Other unexpected events: despite your best efforts, sometimes when you’re traveling abroad plans don’t always go off without a hitch. Luckily, travel insurance can help if your trip is canceled for a covered reason, delayed, or interrupted. And, no matter what happens, you’ll also enjoy 24/7 travel assistance, whether you’re a few states away or halfway across the world.
What is not covered
If you’re traveling abroad, it’s possible that your health insurance won’t provide coverage.cal bill. With travel medical insurance in place, you’ll have coverage up to a preset maximum.