With Summer fast approaching and after a week of lessened restrictions, many of us are beginning to wonder what travel options may look like in the coming months. Of course, with cases of the India variant rising rapidly in some areas, there is still cause for concern and any travel plans may later be subject to further restrictions. Despite this, we felt it important to discuss what options you may have when it comes to travel insurance, should you be thinking about making plans any time soon. With the government’s recently unveiled traffic light system, there has been some confusion over what rules and regulations are in place, depending on the area you wish to travel to.
Having received updated guidance from our travel insurance partners Tifgroup, we felt it important to share the information we have received, in order for you to be able to make the most informed choice. The guidance currently pertains that “you should not travel to red or amber list countries or territories for leisure purposes.” With this in mind, insurance cover from our provider would only apply where such trips have been deemed essential, such as for work purposes. Despite this, it is highly inadvisable to travel to such countries at this time, and any cancellations related to a change in advice due to the pandemic will not be insured. Both Tifgroup and many other providers also have similar policies in place, meaning that cover does not apply in the case of:
- Cancellation due to a change in the FCDO (Foregin, Commonwealth and Development Office) guidance associated with the pandemic.
- Being denied entry to a country you have travelled to.
- Needing to isolate or quarantine on return to the UK, including any hotel costs.
- Being required to purchase and take a covid test.
For those travelling to amber list countries, cover will apply only in the instance of emergency medical expenses, provided you have adhered to the country’s rules and restrictions, and can be seen to have acted in a sensible manner. Comparatively, those travelling to green list countries are covered, provided they are not acting against the advice of the FCDO.
However as the current guidance is subject to change, it’s important to remember that even if you do travel to a green list country there are still associated risks. Should the country you travel to change to the amber or red list, it’s extremely important to check updated advice by the FCDO, as you may be required to return to the UK. If you fail to comply with updated guidance such as needing to return home, your travel cover could become invalidated.
With this information in mind we hope you are able to evaluate your travel options safely and sensibly. Whilst we realise it may be tempting to book something now (with bookings already soaring rapidly), bear in mind the safety and necessity of the travel, as well as any additional expenses your journey may incur owing to the pandemic. Our information is based on advice from our providers and given the tumultuous climate is subject to change at any time. As such, we would always recommend seeking advice from your broker or insurer before making any plans.