This website is theoretically directed towards the whole Earth so it is not within our scope to give specific recomendations or advice for specific countries. This article is just designed to remind you that you ought to give some thought to insurance. What would happen if you got lost and had to call out a helicopter? What would happen if you became seriuosly ill on a walk or had an accident?
One of the reasons why commercial walks are so expensive is that the organisers have to have public liability insurance and comply with many health and safety requirements. Of all the outdoor activities hiking is one of the least dangerous. In my many years of walking with groups I have only seen two accidents. One was a severly twisted ankle and the other was a seriuos cut to the forehead. In both cases we became very aware of how much communication we had via phone to be able to call an ambulance and also how you actually move someone who can't walk. A commercial group should have already thought about the answers to these questions. They should be carrying a lightweight emergency stretcher, first aid kits and should be aware of the mobile coverage for each walk. Once you start charging people for going on walks you will have to get a good insurance. Here in Spain some walking groups who charge get around the insurance issue by insisting that all people of a walk have their own insurance. To be allowed on the walk you have to prove that you are insured by showing some paperwork or a screen from your smartphone. It is possible to insure a group on a day by day basis according to how many walker there are. Any commercial walking group will have to make sure that they are properly insured.
In my own experience of non profit groups we get around insurance and legality by having a disclaimer. This is some sort of text or document in which you state that everyone walks at their own risk and you do not have any responsibility. To go on the walk you have to agree to this. In the case of a website you can make someone click a box before being signed up on a walk. If somone falls of a cliff on your walk they can't blame you because everyone is acting on their own behalf and taking responsibility for their own actions. The legality of this has never been fully tested. It seems reasonable that just because you are the leader of something and don't charge anything you should not be responsible for other people. However, I imagine that if you act in a very irresponsible way and take a group of unsuitable, inadequately dressed teenagers up a mountain just before dark with only a small amount of power in you phone battery, get lost and some of them die of hypothermia then in many places in the world you make have to face the consequences of your irresponsibility. This could be through the legal system or some sort of mob justice.
We lead walks. We have own own insurance for ourselves, to be honest insurance is a thing that people don't talk about much, people don't expect to have an accident. If an accident happened we would do our best to help. The last time we have an accident we just happened to have a doctor and 4 nurses with us so we didn't have to do anything.
I asked chat GPT to write an article about insurance for hikers and this is what it can up with . It may be better than I could have written myself, you decide.
Embarking on a hiking expedition can be an exhilarating experience, allowing enthusiasts to connect with nature, challenge personal limits, and create lasting memories. However, as with any adventure, there are inherent risks associated with hiking, ranging from minor injuries to more severe accidents. To ensure that hikers can enjoy their outdoor pursuits with peace of mind, it's crucial to consider the importance of hiker's insurance.
Hiker's insurance is a specialized form of travel insurance that is designed to provide coverage for a range of potential risks and emergencies encountered during hiking trips. While traditional travel insurance may cover some aspects, hiker's insurance goes the extra mile to address the unique challenges and hazards associated with outdoor activities.
Medical Expenses:
Accidents and injuries can happen even to the most experienced hikers. Hiker's insurance typically covers medical expenses, including hospitalization, emergency medical evacuation, and outpatient care. This coverage ensures that hikers receive prompt medical attention without worrying about the financial burden. Trip Cancellation or Interruption:
Unexpected events such as illness, injury, or family emergencies can force hikers to cancel or cut short their trips. Hiker's insurance often provides reimbursement for non-refundable trip expenses, allowing individuals to recoup their financial investment in case plans change. Search and Rescue:
Hiking in remote areas can increase the risk of getting lost or encountering emergencies that require professional assistance. Hiker's insurance may cover the costs associated with search and rescue operations, providing peace of mind for adventurers exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. Gear and Equipment:
Hiking gear can be expensive, and loss or damage to equipment can disrupt a trip. Hiker's insurance may include coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged gear, ensuring that hikers can replace essential items without significant financial strain. Emergency Evacuation:
In the event of a natural disaster, severe weather conditions, or other unforeseen circumstances, hiker's insurance may cover the costs of emergency evacuation, ensuring that hikers can quickly and safely leave the affected area. Choosing the Right Policy:
When selecting hiker's insurance, it's essential to carefully review policy details and compare options to find coverage that meets individual needs. Consider factors such as coverage limits, exclusions, deductibles, and the reputation of the insurance provider.
Know Your Coverage:
Familiarize yourself with the specifics of your hiker's insurance policy. Understand what is covered, what is excluded, and any limitations on coverage. Plan Accordingly:
Plan your hiking trips with safety in mind. Be aware of potential risks, weather conditions, and the level of difficulty of the chosen trails. Adjust your plans accordingly and communicate your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Emergency Preparedness:
Carry a basic first aid kit, emergency supplies, and communication devices. Knowing basic first aid can be invaluable in handling minor injuries until professional medical help arrives.
Hiking is a rewarding and transformative experience, but it's essential to recognize and prepare for the potential risks associated with outdoor adventures. Hiker's insurance acts as a safety net, providing financial protection and peace of mind, allowing enthusiasts to fully enjoy the beauty of nature without unnecessary worries. By investing in comprehensive hiker's insurance, individuals can safeguard their well-being and ensure that their hiking experiences are memorable for all the right reasons.