Travel insurance is something every traveller should have, whether there is a global pandemic or not, but especially during times like these when travel can become seriously interrupted due to the virus.
The federal government has advised against non-essential international travel.
Canadians who are still considering travel should think more carefully about getting travel insurance and what their coverage includes amid the spread of the COVID-19 Omicron variant as health and travel conditions can change suddenly.
Those types of insurance policies are an add-on, and while they would cost more money, they might give you a peace of mind.
First, travellers should get insurance that includes but not limited to, hospital/medical, trip cancellation and cancel for any reason coverage costs incurred should they suffer from severe symptoms during their trip, customers to cancel a trip for any reason and get back a portion of non-refundable deposits.
Every passenger should ensure they have coverage that includes medical care if they contract the virus while abroad, accommodation coverage in the case they are required to quarantine, and trip interruption insurance should they become sick before the trip even starts.
Research who you are booking your flight, cruise, or tour company to see what their cancellation or rebooking policies are as well as what they offer as a travel protection plan.
Travel insurance is not one-size-fits-all. Policies and what they cover can vary wildly. And everyone’s will be priced differently based on duration, age, and health conditions.
Every single policy wording is different. All Canadians are recommended, before purchasing any policies, to review the policy wording. When shopping for travel insurance, read the terms of your plan carefully before purchasing to ensure you get the appropriate coverage.
Research is important to any traveller ahead of a trip. It’s no different with the coronavirus. Become familiar with the Centre for Disease Control’s recommendations and the government of Canada advisories in place recommendations, consult your healthcare professional, and chat with a travel agent about cancellation policies, waivers, travel insurance possibilities before making any decision.
Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before travelling. OnantaForbes.com does not endorse travelling against government advisories.
