What to know about Travel Insurance

News about the Coronavirus, also known as the Wuhan Coronavirus, is now all over the news. Originating in China, 15 countries, including the US, have confirmed cases of the virus.  
Whenever we are faced with contagious diseases like this, there is a domino effect of other events that take place, such as people wanting to cancel/delay travel plans.

Canceling a trip can be costly, which is why purchasing travel insurance is recommended.

There are however, a few very important points to keep in mind, even when purchasing travel insurance.

1. Purchasing a travel insurance policy should be done as soon as a deposit has been made for your trip.  Remember you have no coverage until a policy is in place.  
2. If an expected natural disaster, political unrest, contagious disease etc. has been mentioned in the media, it will no longer be a covered benefit.
3. Some policies carry a pre-existent condition rider, at no added cost as long as policy is purchased within 14 days of paid deposit. (may vary depending on policy).  This rider can not be added after this timeframe - not even at a cost.
4. Purchase your policy from a reputable Travel Insurance Company is recommended because it will have a superior coverage, and refunds will be monetary, not be given as a new trip with restrictions and expiration dates.  The insurance companies also have experts in place all over the world to handle emergencies.
5. Not all policies are created equal!   It is important that you understand the coverage of your plan.  Plans that have Trip Cancellation, for instance, will NOT cover you simply. for fear of traveling to a specific destination, even for fear of illness. Please. review your policy for more detailed information. The optional upgrade to.Cancel for Any Reason coverage would however provide coverage  because, as the name states, this coverage allows you to cancel for any  reason.
   
   

As a travel agent, by law I must offer travel insurance to my clients. I sell policies from most of the major insurance companies.  I am not a certified insurance agent, and can not give specific recommendations, but can get you in touch with someone who can answer any concerns and questions you have.