It is important to be aware of the fact that some policies exclude coverage for pandemics. Others may not cover these events until they have been declared. To learn more, you should read the policy documentation. If you're unsure, it is a good idea to get comprehensive travel insurance. A policy with Cancel for Any Reason coverage is a smart choice.
Cancel for any reason coverage
The standard policy does not include coverage for pandemics, epidemics, or other risks. 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 included the COVID-19 pandemic in their travel insurance policies over recent years. This coverage is only available to travelers who have been certified by a doctor. 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. However, travelers should be aware that this coverage is 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
A few standard travel insurance policies will not cover travel expenses if there is a pandemic. To add this coverage, you will need to upgrade your policy. The upgrade covers up to 25% of non-refundable costs and costs approximately 40 percent more than the standard plan. If you're concerned about a pandemic, this is an option.
To find out if pandemic coverage includes you, ensure you carefully read your policy. Check your policy to determine if any other mishaps may be excluded. Also, ensure that your policy limits provide enough coverage to cover costs incurred by other mishaps. You should also ensure that your policy covers evacuation and transportation in an emergency.
Cancellation due to fear of travel
Travel insurance policies typically don't cover cancellation due to fear of pandemics and disease. Some companies have changed their policies. Under the optional Cancel Any Reason benefit, 50-75% can be claimed if you are ill and cancel your trip. To be eligible, you must act quickly. You can cancel up to 2 days in advance of your departure to get this benefit.
Unfortunately, standard travel insurance policies will not cover cancellations caused by pandemics, epidemics or viral outbreaks. Your plan will not cover your trip if your cancellation is due to "fear or travel". But travelers should know that there are many reasons why they may need to cancel. 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. Although most travel insurance policies don't cover these conditions, there are exceptions. If you have a chronic illness you may be eligible to receive a waiver for pre-existing conditions.
This waiver allows you avoid high premiums for medical conditions. Pre-existing Conditions Waiver: If you have been diagnosed with a condition or suffered from it for at most 60 days prior to buying your travel insurance policy, you may be eligible. However, you should make sure that your policy covers any type of illness by reviewing your medical records.
Cancellation coverage for COVID-19
Travel insurance is necessary if you travel to a affected region by the Covid-19 viruses. Some insurance policies provide coverage for cancellations of trips due to certain diseases. Others will pay quarantine costs. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, it's important to find out what your specific coverage is.
Insurance policies typically exclude loss due to epidemics. Therefore, you should inquire about cancellation coverage to COVID-19. It depends on what coverage you have and what your policy limits. Some plans exclude losses due to COVID-19 because it's a communicable disease. If they're part a joint public/private initiative, however, others might provide coverage.