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Cycling

Travel Insurance for Cycling

Get cover for your cycling adventure with Redpoint protection

There are few better ways to explore a new destination than on two wheels. Whether you love the thrill of mountain biking or prefer clocking leisurely miles on the road, cyclists are able to see so much more than your typical traveler.

And there's no shortage of places perfectly suited for epic cycling vacations, from braving the mighty climbs of the French Alps to rubbing shoulders with pros in Girona, Spain, to weathering the elements in northern Scotland. But regardless of where you decide to take your bike, you'll need cycling travel insurance cover to protect you while you're on your trip.

Like any trip that involves adventurous activities, a cycling holiday comes with some risks. From accidents and injuries to gear damage and theft, bicycle insurance helps ensure that your costs are covered if any emergencies or unforeseen events arise. Read on to learn more about travel insurance cover for cycling trips.

Medical, health, & safety for cycling

Cycling holidays can require a fair bit of preparation. First things first: You’ll want to make sure your bicycle is properly maintained and your equipment and gear — lights, helmets, first-aid kit, etc. — is all in good working order.

You’ll also need to spend some time planning and mapping your route, as relying on GPS can be risky if you cycle in areas with no reception. And to avoid serious injury and/or the need for medical treatment while you’re pedaling away, you should prioritize training and conditioning so your fitness levels are up to par for the route or climbs you plan to conquer.

If your cycling trip takes you off road, be sure to respect animals’ habitat, regard them from a safe distance, and never feed them. Be prepared to deal with insect bites and minor stings, as those can be common in warmer months.

Natural disasters are another consideration. Be vigilant and proactive about checking local conditions and weather forecasts. Avoid cycling through areas with a high risk of landslides or flash flooding, especially during the rainy season. Subscribe to local alerts to ensure you’re getting the most up-to-date information, and always have a backup plan if you need to abandon your ride.

Road safety is of course a major consideration for cyclists. Stick to designated bike paths or low-traffic roads whenever possible, and always follow local traffic laws. If you’re cycling in a foreign country, make sure you familiarize yourself with the rules of the road and any specific cycling etiquette. Always use lights and reflective gear to increase visibility, especially in low-light conditions.

Trip insurance benefits & coverage for cycling

You may be wondering: Does my travel insurance cover cycling? Many travel insurance companies cover cycling as part of a comprehensive travel insurance policy, including Redpoint.

Here are the core coverage areas you should look for when purchasing cycling holiday insurance.

  • Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance: Trip cancellation insurance reimburses your nonrefundable trip expenses if your cycling trip is canceled or cut short due to a covered reason, like illness, severe weather, or family emergencies. If you’ve paid for race-entry fees as part of your trip, these can potentially be refunded as well. If you think you may need extra flexibility, consider adding cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage to your policy. 
  • Travel medical insurance: Travel health insurance covers unexpected medical expenses related to any injuries or illnesses that happen during your cycling trip. Keep in mind that your health insurance from home will not be accepted in most cases, so if you don’t have travel insurance, any medical bills or medical expenses that you incur on your cycling trip would need to be paid for out of pocket. You’ll probably also need to apply for a waiver if you have any preexisting conditions. 
  • Emergency medical evacuation insurance: Emergency evacuation coverage reimburses you for transportation to the nearest medical facility or back to the U.S. in extreme or emergency situations. If you’re doing any adventurous travel, such as mountain biking in a remote or rural area, emergency evacuation coverage is essential.
  • Baggage and personal belongings insurance: This covers loss, theft, or damage to your belongings should they go missing during your trip. If you are taking expensive gear or your own bike, you should make sure that your bicycle travel insurance policy covers the maximum value of your equipment, such as a replacement bike.
  • Trip delay insurance: Travel delay benefits provide coverage for additional expenses if your trip is delayed before it starts or during any connections or transfers.

For adventurous travelers, Ripcord is the best option for cycling insurance. An extensive plan with high coverage limits and enhanced coverage, it includes generous benefits for emergency medical evacuation, search and rescue, trip cancellation, delay, and interruptions, and political, security, or natural disaster evacuation. It can also cover multiple cycling activities if you’re planning an extensive itinerary.

Redpoint’s other travel insurance plans, Cavalry and Harbor, provide international coverage and comprehensive protection for a wide range of situations as well. If you’re planning on cycling along city streets or recreational paths, Cavalry is particularly suited for urban travel and luxury cultural experiences, while Harbor offers robust coverage to the budget-minded leisure traveler.

For travel insurance costs and more information, check out our purchase page for a quote today.

FAQs about cycling travel insurance

Loaded with bags red bicycle stands on side of road surrounded by mountains in countryside of VAshlovani national park. Bicycle touring holiday in Georgia

What is insurance for cycling?

A cycling insurance policy is simply a travel insurance policy that includes coverage for cycling, in addition to all other elements of a comprehensive travel insurance policy. It typically covers incidents such as accidents, damage to your bike, theft, and personal liability if you accidentally injure someone or damage property while cycling.

Does travel insurance cover cycling?

Yes, many travel insurance policies cover cycling, but the extent of coverage depends on the policy. Casual cycling, like sightseeing or recreational rides, is usually included in standard travel insurance. However, more intensive activities, like mountain biking, racing, or long-distance cycling tours, may require additional coverage or a specialized policy.

How much is travel insurance for cycling?

The cost of travel insurance for cycling varies depending on factors such as your destination, trip duration, age, and the type of cycling involved. Redpoint's coverage usually runs from 6% to 15% of your total trip cost.

What should your travel insurance cover for a cycling trip?

Your travel insurance policy should include coverage for medical expenses and emergency evacuation for injuries; coverage for theft, loss, or damage to your belongings and gear, including your bike; trip cancellation or interruption; personal liability if you injure someone or damage property; and optional add-ons for high-risk activities, like mountain biking or racing.

What happens if a tourist gets injured while cycling?

If you're injured while on a cycling trip, you should seek out local medical care. If you're injured on the road or a trail and unable to reach a facility, you may require evacuation assistance or emergency services. To be prepared, your travel insurance should cover medical expenses, including hospitalization, treatment, and emergency evacuation, if needed.

If you are injured on a cycling trip and struggling to access care, Redpoint's team can assist with locating services and providers covered by your insurance. Reach out to our 24/7 emergency helpline at +1-415-481-0610.

Protect your trip with Redpoint travel insurance

Redpoint is known for comprehensive, easy-to-understand travel insurance policies that can suit any type of trip, from a family cycling holiday through the hills of Provence to a bike tour along the back roads of South America. Explore our three international travel insurance plans — Ripcord, Cavalry, and Harbor — and get a quote today.