Choosing the Best Travel Insurance

“The best investment you’ll ever make is in your own health…”

As we’re almost halfway into 2021, nearly 100 million people in the US have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Now more than ever before, people around the globe are eager to travel. Americans are excited to finally organize summer vacations to see close friends and family members for the first time in two years. As people continue to take precautions and get their first and second vaccines, the world is starting to open up and travel plans are being made. Whether you’re off to explore a domestic location or planning a trip to an international destination, it’s important to stay up to date on safe travel recommendations.

The pandemic has had one of the biggest impacts in history on tourism, with travel numbers drastically down in 2020. Although the future of travel itself has changed and there’s a lot more uncertainty around it, travelers are looking forward to getting out of isolation and tourism-dependent economies are ready to open up. Travel insurance is arguably more important than ever when booking now, as it is the best way to protect yourself from unexpected circumstances. It is important to be kept up to date on the CDC guidelines, especially in the locations you plan to be visiting. There are a few things to consider while you make travel plans.

Up to Date Unbiased & Transparent Travel Advice

For example, there are multiple types of travel insurance coverages and options that exist. General categories include trip cancellation/interruption, medical insurance, evacuation, lost or stolen belongings, and travel life insurance. Trip cancellations cover unforeseen medical issues right before you go, and interruptions cover part of your trip cost in the event you need to cut it short. Most medical insurance won’t be included in your U.S. health insurance coverage, so check with your agent before purchasing to see what is covered. Life insurance isn’t generally covered as it’s an add-on depending on the policy, so this is something you would need to request in addition to your selected coverage.

Each travel insurance policy outlines and enforces these categories in various ways. This depends on the plan you buy, and the circumstances presented. The maximum benefits received also differ per policy. Researching and inquiring about travel insurance quotes based on your specific travel plans is the best route to find which one works best for you and the trip you wish to embark on.

The Impact of Covid-19 on Travel

One impact Covid-19 has on the travel industry is the changing travel medical insurance policies which now cover pandemic-related incidentals. This new coverage includes trip cancellation policies in the incident you or a family member have contracted COVID-19 prior to leaving, trip delays due to changing guidelines, and medical coverage in the event you fall ill with the virus while traveling or abroad. However, they do not cover cancellations out of fear of getting sick or countries with a Level 4 Travel Advisory. These listed countries are constantly changing, so be sure to review that information prior to booking your trip and purchasing your travel medical insurance.

Countries have varying guidelines in place when it comes to international travel. Some international countries such as Israel, have begun implementing a vaccine passport and many are still deciding how they will regulate that. Others are changing their tourism requirements to include having travel medical insurance such as Brazil, Cuba, Thailand, The Bahamas and more. These travel destinations are learning from the events occurring around the world and are taking precautions to protect their own citizens.

A Look into Travel Insurance Policies

When looking into travel medical insurance policies, having COVID-19 coverage may be the new norm for the foreseeable future following the outbreak. Countries will likely require vaccinations or proof of a negative test, possible quarantine timelines, and a good international health insurance coverage. Ultimately, having the safety net of a travel insurance policy will not only give you peace of mind in the event unforeseen circumstances occur, but it also encourages safe global travel procedures.

In need of travel medical insurance advice and don’t know where to start? UrHealth Benefits is here for all Ur (your) healthcare needs. Whether you are looking for Life, Individual & Family Health, Supplemental, Travel and Medicare Insurances, UrHealth offers incredible resources, always puts your health first and provides a personalized approach to simplify the insurance process. Contact UrHealth Benefits to find the best personalized plan that fits your lifestyle.