You should know that not all policies cover pandemics. Some policies may only cover such events once they have been declared. To find out the details, it is a good idea to review your policy documents. If you're unsure, it is a good idea to get comprehensive travel insurance. It is also a good idea to choose a policy that offers Cancel For Any Reason coverage.
Cancel for any reason coverage
The standard travel insurance policy excludes pandemics and epidemics. The optional "Cancel-for-Any Reason" coverage is not available to travelers. They will not likely be able recover any costs related a pandemic. Because it doesn't cause a specific event, cancellation for any reason coverage is not considered insurance in New York. But, insurers may comply with the law by proving that the benefit pertains to an "authorized enterprise."
Many insurance companies have added the COVID-19 Pandemic to their travel insurance policies in recent times. Travelers must be certified by their doctor to get this coverage. Also, "I'm afraid I will travel" coverage is not included. However, travelers with Cancel for Any Reason coverage may qualify for 50-75% of their trip costs. This coverage is very time-sensitive. Cancel for All Reasons is only available to those who cancel at least two business days before they depart.
Standard trip cancellation policy
Many standard travel insurance policies don't cover the cost of traveling due to pandemics. You must purchase an upgrade to your policy to include this coverage. The upgrade covers up to 25% of non-refundable costs and costs approximately 40 percent more than the standard plan. This option is good if you're worried about an impending pandemic.
Make sure to read your policy to determine whether pandemic coverage is included. You can also check your policy to see what other mishaps might be excluded. Check that your policy limits can cover any other mishaps. You should also ensure that your policy covers evacuation and transportation in an emergency.
Cancellation for fear of travel
Travel insurance policies typically don't cover cancellation due to fear of pandemics and disease. Some companies have changed their policies. An optional Cancel for any Reason benefit may allow you to receive 50-75% of the trip cancellation cost if you become ill. However, this benefit can only be claimed if you act quickly. It is best to cancel no later than 2 days before your departure.
Standard travel insurance policies usually do not cover cancellations for pandemics or epidemics. Your plan will not cover your trip if your cancellation is due to "fear or travel". Travelers should realize that there are many reasons for cancelling their trip. You may have to cancel your trip because of flight cancellations or cruise ship travel suspensions.
Waiver of pre-existing conditions
There are some concerns about the possibility that you might get sick or injured while traveling, particularly if you have any pre-existing conditions. Most travel insurance policies do not cover such conditions, but if you've got a chronic illness, you may be eligible for a pre-existing conditions waiver.
This waiver allows you not to have to pay a high premium for a condition that you already have. Pre-existing conditions waivers are available if you have had the condition or disease for at least 60 calendar days prior to purchasing your travel insurance policy. Make sure you check your medical records to ensure your policy covers these types of illnesses.
Cancellation coverage for COVID-19
Travel insurance is essential if you plan to travel to a country affected by the Covid-19 disease. Some insurance policies provide coverage for cancellations of trips due to certain diseases. Others cover quarantine expenses. It doesn't matter if you are traveling for business or pleasure. You need to know what your coverage is.
Insurance policies often exclude loss from epidemics. If you are unsure, ask your provider for cancellation coverage. The extent of your policy and the type of coverage you have will determine the answer. COVID-19 can be excluded from some plans because it is a communicable condition. However, other plans may cover such events if they are part of a public-private partnership.