Travel insurance COVID-19 information and FAQs

COVID-19 has presented the travel insurance market with some real challenges. As a result, insurers’ responses and approaches at this time are rapidly changing. Many insurers have taken the decision to close to new business due to high call and claim volumes as well as future uncertainty as to how COVID-19 will shape product features and terms.


How a COVID-19 claim is dealt with will very much depend on the type of travel insurance policy you have whether it is business, leisure, an employer-paid personal policy or an elected flexible benefit.

Here are some of the frequently asked questions we have received from clients and answers that we have so far. If you require further guidance or want clarification on your specific policy, please speak to your dedicated consultant.

There are a vast number of questions coming out of the travel market and some of the answers from providers are still unclear. These are a few common trends and key considerations you should be thinking about:

  • Future Travel - As destinations that are on and off the government safe to travel list constantly change it is of continued importance that you regularly review these if looking at future travel.  Make sure you check what travel cover is available, if any, and what the implications are if you are suddenly unable to travel in respect to cancellation refunds, changing of your booking and replacement vouchers.  Some of the insurers are now covering medical claims linked to Covid, however not if travelling against FCO advice so again read your policy carefully.  The future of travel is very uncertain and will continue to be for some time.   
  • Travel Provider - Many travel providers are offering refunds on accommodation, flights, excursions that they had to cancel so approach them for refunds first to see if one is available.
  • Eligible claims - Insurers vary on how they deal with potential claims depending on when COVID-19 was declared a pandemic/known event and also when considering guidance from the FCO (Foreign & Commonwealth Office). If you are in anyway unsure please contact your travel insurer for further guidance.
  • Airline vouchers - Be aware if accepting airline vouchers for cancelled flights and ensure you read the full terms and conditions.  Some of them have a shelf life and may expire after a defined period.  In addition if the airline goes into liquidation some insurers may not pay out for a voucher, only a pre-booked flight.

COVID-19 and Travel insurance FAQ

With the number of variations on travel products available this is impossible to answer in one question. Please do give us a call and we can talk with you through your existing policy or contact your insurer directly for guidance.

If you are symptomatic, where possible try to isolate yourself from household members, particularly the vulnerable (e.g. elderly or those with pre-existing medical conditions). Don’t panic. Seek medical advice from your local authorities or your insurer claims team who will have the resources to direct you to the relevant local authority. If it is an emergency situation please try to make them aware you have symptoms before presenting yourself at any medical facility.

The insurers are experiencing high levels of call volumes currently, along with operating remote client servicing due to office closures. Please do keep trying and be patient. If it is a medical emergency insurers should have an option to press when calling for this, but please only use this option if it is an emergency.

Yes, providing your claim is covered under the policy terms and conditions and you are following the travel guidance within the policy (i.e. not travelling against FCO advice) then your policy remains valid.


We hope you have found these FAQs useful. We will add to it as further questions are raised and answered. If you need any further clarification, please speak to your consultant for further guidance.


Useful links


Amtrust - Updates are available but not live. Please contact your consultant or the insurer for further information.

Aviva -https://www.aviva.co.uk/insurance/travel/coronavirus-advice-travel-insurance-customers/

AXA PPP -https://www.axappphealthcare.co.uk/update-on-coronavirus/

Bupa Global – Updates are available but not live. Please contact your consultant or the insurer for further information.

Bupa UK -https://www.bupa.co.uk/travel-insurance/coronavirus-travel-faqs

Canopious - Updates are available but not live. Please contact your consultant or the insurer for further information.

Chubb - https://www.chubb.com/my-en/claims/travel-insurance-claims-response-to-outbreak-of-newcoronavirus-strain.aspx

Crispin Speers -http://www.eb.cspinsurance.com/index.php/newsmain/323-coronavirus

Millstream - Employee Benefit (flex or company paid leisure) - https://www.mstream.co.uk/news/detail/coronavirus-COVID-19-employee-benefits

Pen Underwriting -https://www.penunderwriting.co.uk/~/media/Files/Pen-Underwriting/COVID-19-Notice--PA--Travel.pdf

 
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All information is correct as of 06/07/20

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We recognise that the current economic conditions are putting pressure on many households and businesses. At Howden, we are committed to finding ways to assist our customers who may require additional support during these times.

If you’re currently facing financial difficulty, please speak to us about your insurance policies by:-

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