Cancellations and refunds on travel plans.
There’s no doubt that the coronavirus has been disrupting travel. From borders closing to flights being grounded, the average American may not have been able to travel to their vacation as they once planned. If this does happen, be sure you know what to do.
Canceling cruises
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a statement with its strongest advice yet for all people, especially those with underlying health conditions, to “defer all cruise ship travel worldwide.” Since cruise ships keep people in repeated contact over a long period of time, going on one can put yourself as higher risk of getting the disease.
The good news is you may not lose your money. Cruise lines are allowing passengers to cancel their voyages, some with as little as 48 hours’ notice, and receive full credit for a future sailing later this year or next year. The offer also is good for future reservations.
Flights
Many flights have already been canceled, but if yours has not, you should look into the area in which you’re landing. Older adults and those with health problems should avoid crowded places and long plane trips. Although canceled and postponed events have left airlines with many empty seats and cheap fares, you should think twice before buying any airplane tickets.
You may be eligible for a refund if your flight was canceled, which means you wouldn’t lose a dim. The airline may give you receive credit for a future flight to be used within a certain period, usually within a year.
Travel insurance
There is limited cancellation coverage under most standard travel insurance policies. Virus outbreaks do not fall under the standard cancellation reasons on most travel insurance plans. Your best bet is to contact your travel insurer directly to see what they can and cannot cover in this unusual situation.
Obtaining the right travel insurance can make all the difference. Contact the insurance professionals at Donald Weiss Insurance Services to have an expert customize a great travel policy that includes cancellation coverage.