How Does Travel Insurance Change During the Pandemic? iNewstelegraph

Travelling during the pandemic comes with unexpected risks and unpredictability. Due to sudden lockdowns, restrictions on borders, and flight cancellations, travel arrangements are more likely to be interrupted than before. Given the unpredictability of travel plans due to the COVID-19 pandemic, travel insurance has become increasingly important.

Let’s look at the reasons why buying comprehensive travel insurance could be one of the smartest things to do before embarking on a journey.

Travel-related restrictions keep on changing

Due to the ongoing pandemic, many people have learned to be prepared for the unexpected. Amid the various waves of the pandemic, even governments across the world were unable to adhere to a uniform policy regarding travel restrictions. Even now, when the number of active cases rises, governments look for new ways to curb infection rates. There is a high likelihood that the country for which you have booked flights may close its borders at the last minute.

Given the situation, it is more important than ever to have comprehensive travel insurance. It will shield you from financial loss if your trip is cancelled.

High chance of contracting the virus

The coronavirus is known for its high rate of transmission. Even if you take all precautions, there is still a chance that you will contract a virus. But what if you contract COVID-19 on your trip abroad? Who will you turn to when your family members are not there to help you? The answer is travel insurance.

Treating medical conditions on foreign soil might deplete your savings. To avoid paying out-of-pocket charges, you will require travel insurance. It not only covers the COVID-19 related costs but will also pay for other medical conditions.

It is mandatory in some countries

Given the lethality of the coronavirus, many countries have made travel insurance necessary for visitors. Therefore, before you plan your trip, familiarise yourself with the country’s rules and regulations. Here’s the list of countries where insurance is mandatory:

The United States of America (USA travel insurance)
United Arab Emirates
New Zealand
Schengen Countries (group of 26 countries)
Russia
Cuba
Thailand
Ecuador
Qatar

Furthermore, before travelling, it is recommended that you must also check that country’s visa requirements.

Risk of getting stuck out of India

Given the virus’s unpredictability, you never know when the government of the country you are visiting declares a lockdown. You risk running out of money during your extended stay if you don’t plan ahead of time for such a situation. Comprehensive travel insurance ensures you remain financially stress-free even if you have to extend your accommodation.

Airlines are facing a financial crunch

Airline companies are struggling to keep their business up and running. They are operating with a minimal profit margin due to the unpredictability of the virus outbreak and the lack of passengers. Furthermore, the number of flights transporting passengers are also running in a limited number. As a result, if anything bad happens, the flight services will be completely shut down for a few days. In this situation, having USA travel insurance will not only help you financially if your flight is cancelled, but it will also compensate you if your luggage is lost.

To sum it up

The threat of COVID-19 is still looming over us. However, as restrictions have been relaxed, many people have begun to travel to get away from their hectic work-from-home schedules and spend quality time with their families. The travel sector, as well as the travel insurance industry, have seen significant changes since the lockdown. The necessity for comprehensive travel insurance has never been more pressing.