See how to use wellness credits in your life!
If you spend a good part of your life in hotels, airports, and foreign cities, you need to keep your physical and mental health up to date.
The good news? Many health plans offered by companies in the United States now include wellness credits, a benefit that can be a true ally for those who are constantly on the move.
What are wellness credits?
Wellness credits are annual or monthly amounts offered by some health plans or corporate benefit programs, aimed at encouraging healthy practices.
They can be used for a variety of services, such as gym memberships, fitness apps, therapy sessions, yoga, pilates or meditation classes, and health monitoring equipment.
Nutrition and healthy eating programs, therapeutic massages, acupuncture, and mindfulness and sleep apps are also eligible options.
Companies like UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, among others, have already incorporated this type of benefit into their plans.
A benefit that travels with you
If you’re a digital nomad, international executive, or just someone who loves to explore the world frequently, you might be wondering: do these credits work outside the United States?
The answer is in most cases, yes—especiallyhen the services are digital or when the insurer allows for global reimbursement.
How to use the credits abroad
Take advantage of digital services
The simplest way to use the credits outside the U.S. is through digital apps and platforms. Many plans cover options like
- Subscriptions to apps like Headspace (meditation), Centr (personalized workouts), MyFitnessPal (nutrition), or Sleep Cycle (sleep).
- Live or recorded yoga, HIIT, stretching, and meditation classes on platforms like ClassPass, Peloton, or Apple Fitness+.
- Online therapy or coaching sessions through platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace.
That’s because everything is done digitally, since the purpose of the credits is precisely to encourage healthy daily habits—notospital visits!
Check international reimbursement policies
Some plans allow you to submit receipts for wellness services purchased outside the U.S., such as massage sessions, spa day passes, yoga classes, or consultations with local nutritionists or physical therapists.
Just keep the receipts and fill out a simple form on the insurer’s portal. It’s important that the service is on the list of qualified activities and that the receipt includes details (provider name, service, amount, date).
Use global partner networks
Some insurers have international partnerships with gyms, studios, and clinics. Cigna, for example, offers access to wellness networks in various countries through its global plans.
Before traveling, it’s worth checking the insurer’s portal to see which partners are available at your destination.
Stay connected to your routine
Being away from home doesn’t have to mean the end of your healthy routine.
On the contrary, using your wellness credits strategically can be an extra incentive to keep up with your workouts and maintain mental balance.
Benefits beyond the body
Investing time and energy in wellness while traveling is not just about physical health. It’s also a way to reduce the stress of changes and jet lag.
The credits can help you stay focused and productive at work and also enjoy cultural experiences with energy and balance.
In other words, taking care of your health is what allows you to travel more—and better.
Practical tips for frequent travelers
If you’re always on the move, here are some quick tips to make the most of your wellness credits outside the U.S.:
- Activate the benefits: Many plans require initial activation or enrollment. Do this before you travel.
- Explore global apps: Prioritize platforms with international access and support in different languages.
- Centralize your receipts: Use apps like Expensify or Evernote to store proof of wellness services used abroad.
- Talk to HR: If you receive the plan through your company, request an updated list of benefits and usage options abroad.
- Plan ahead: If you’re going to a specific country for a longer period, look for local studios or clinics that accept international reimbursement.
