Is it safe to travel now? Coronavirus is changing all our travel plans.
Whether or not you should take a planned trip depends on many things, including your destination, your own age and health, your family members, and also the people you will be traveling with.
If you choose to cancel or postpone your trip, check with your airline, hotel, cruise line, or tour operator. Many have waived change fees.
Here’s advice from AAA about quarantines and travel insurance.
The Likelihood of Quarantine if you Travel
If you choose to take that trip:
Travel with all necessary travel documentation, including health insurance cards.
At the top of your packing list, AAA recommends travelers pack an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol and disinfecting wipes.
Pack any extra supplies you may need, including additional doses of medication, in case your return trip is delayed.
Know the nearest location of and contact information for the U.S. embassy or consulate.
Enroll in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), so you can be reached if the situation changes while abroad.
Travel Insurance May or May not Cover Coronavirus
ecoXplorer tips on travel insurance
Why You Need Travel Insurance
Type of Travel Insurance Right For You
Travel insurance coverage varies widely.
If you purchased travel insurance before the coronavirus was recognized as an epidemic, your policy likely provides at least some level of protection.
Customers who purchased “cancel anytime” or “cancel for any reason” insurance prior to February 3, when coronavirus was recognized as an epidemic, or soon thereafter may be able to cancel their trip and receive reimbursement for a portion of their non-refundable travel deposits.
Travel insurance generally excludes epidemics.
If you have a trip already booked, check with your travel providers (cruise line, airline, hotel, etc.) to see what waivers they have put in place.
If you are planning a trip, also check with travel providers to understand their coronavirus-related policies and connect with a travel agent.
Depending on your situation, there could be some travel insurance options for your needs.
No matter where you travel, make sure you are taking everyday preventive measures to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases.
- Wash your hands frequently
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
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