The last few months of 2020 could be the time when many people finally take that vacation they’ve been putting off since last summer. And plenty of travel plans were spoiled this year: 86% of travelers delayed air travel over potential health concerns, reports Bloomberg. TSA reported in July 2020 that the average number of travelers screened was down 75% from that same timeframe in 2019.
Now that some countries are easing their restrictions on tourism, many popular destinations are setting up parameters to keep their guests and their residents safe. As the holidays approach and more travelers head home or to places such as Mexico, it’s important to know that travel itself could be altered.
One such change is the entry into a country. For instance, at the height of the pandemic, much of the world had closed its borders to visitors. As September arrived, many countries began easing restrictions and allowing travelers, but not all. The United Nations reported in mid-September that 53% of destinations around the world had eased travel restrictions.
Yet not all borders are open to US residents. For travelers who are unaware of these limitations, that could mean showing up at a destination and being turned away. For example, US residents traveling to the Canadian border would be denied entry as of this writing.
That could change. In fact, amid an ongoing pandemic, many of these requirements and restrictions have changed and will continue to do so as conditions warrant. In an attempt to keep all travelers and residents safe, many jurisdictions are making decisions based on local conditions.
Even what is open may come with important caveats. The Mexican travel industry has worked hard to ensure that air travel to Mexico occurs smoothly. However, the Mexican government requires all foreign travelers to show proof of travel and medical insurance before being allowed to enter certain portions of the country (i.e., Puerto Vallarta).
Likewise, local cities or resorts might have their own restrictions that could thwart a traveler’s plans. Even in the US, many cities and states have widely varied requirements on mask use, physical distancing or indoor activity. In some states, for example, travelers are required to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.
Even in locales or hotels you’ve stayed at previously, rules could be changed or amenities, such as restaurants, pools or health centers, could be unavailable. There may also be limits on the number of occupants allowed in the facility at one time.
When traveling this season, be aware of the conditions in your final destination. Check with the hotel or resort, the airline, or the visitor’s bureau to ensure that you will be able to reach your destination and will be allowed to enjoy your stay.
Protecting Your Travel Investment
We at NFP strongly recommend that travelers purchase adequate travel insurance to protect the investment in airline tickets or hotel reservations in the event of a cancellation or disruption. When looking for travel coverage, make sure to purchase coverage that includes COVID-related cancellations or disruptions, which includes cancellation due to contracting COVID. A policy that offers “cancel for any reason” (CFR) coverage can reimburse travelers for travel that doesn’t occur for any reason, including illness, concern or cancellation.
A travel insurance policy should also carry some medical protection. A medical expense add-on to your policy will reimburse you for helicopter evacuations (for medical reasons), and for hospital or provider care should you become ill or are injured.
Traveling Smarter
You invest time and effort into your travel planning. Protect your travel by knowing the most up-to-date information on travel restrictions at your destination, by understanding restrictions in the locale you’ll be visiting, and by staying on top of the latest information regarding flights and border requirements.
For those disruptions you can’t predict, make sure to have travel insurance that protects your investment and your health. Doing so can pave the way to an enjoyable vacation, no matter where you’re traveling to.
For more information, please contact Denny Lauritsen at denny.lauritsen@nfp.com