Buy Travel Insurance: How to Prepare for your Trip Against COVID-19
After being cooped up for two years, we’re all itching to travel and explore. If you’re planning on travelling from Canada to the U.S. or any other international travel, it’s important to know about the COVID-19 restrictions in place. Here’s what you need to keep in mind about travel insurance post-pandemic:
To start with, it’s crucial to note that being vaccinated isn’t a requirement for qualifying for travel insurance. Your coverage won’t be affected by the vaccine, nor will it prevent you from purchasing it.
COVID-19 = Pre-existing Condition
Why does this matter? Well, our travel insurance plans cover pre-existing conditions. Post-pandemic coverage for COVID-19 has been added to your government health plan and medical emergency travel insurance list. However, remember that there is a ‘stability period’ requirement when it comes to pre-existing conditions. The duration of this period varies between companies. Don’t worry; your advisor will ask about this before purchasing insurance to ensure you qualify.
Emergency Medical
Our SK health plan is great, but it’s not perfect. Even if you are travelling inside Canada, the government plan will not cover certain expenses. Emergency Medical can help with extra costs if you need an ambulance, prescriptions, medical treatments, etc.
Travel Advisories
Some countries may still have travel advisories or may in the future if they have another outbreak. If there is a travel advisory to your travel destination, your travel insurance coverage will not respond if you go. Make sure you check the travel advisories before your trip to see if your goal may be at risk.
Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Coverage
If your next big adventure destination has a travel advisory or you contract COVID-19 and need to isolate, you want Trip Cancellation Coverage. If you are on vacation and have to leave early because of a medical condition related to COVID-19, you want Trip-Interruption. These coverages will help cover unused prepaid travel expenses. It reimburses expenses, like the cost of your flight, if you need to cancel your trip unexpectedly due to getting COVID-19. But you have to purchase this coverage BEFORE:
- The unexpected reason for the cancellation occurs
- You leave for the trip
COVID-19 Protocols
Whether travelling to the U.S. from Canada or within the country, it’s important to take extra precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Depending on your mode of transportation, there may be additional measures implemented to prevent the spread of diseases. To prepare for air or border crossings within Canada, consult the travel guide and mandates for up-to-date information.
As you plan your travels, consider obtaining an insurance plan that covers COVID-19 related incidents. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in case something unexpected happens while you’re on the road.
Getting the Best Plan
Here are some questions to ask your travel insurance provider for the insurance before purchasing your insurance. If you already have coverage in place, make sure you have your current plan on hand when you speak to an advisor. Asking questions will ensure you have the proper protection and let you know if you need a little top-up.
- What does my plan cover, and what are the benefit maximums?
- Does the plan cover me if I contract COVID-19 while travelling?
- What are the exclusions and limitations of the COVID-19 Rider?
- Does the plan provide coverage for an automatic extension if hospitalized beyond the return date?
Give yourself peace of mind knowing that your insurance plan will respond if something were to happen that was COVID-19 related. Happy travels!
Posted in Travel on May 26, 2022 by Hope Prost
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