Why Travel Insurance Is a Must-Have for the 2021 Traveler

2020 was a crazy year for the travel industry. The pandemic restricted travel availability which resulted in a 42% decline in travel spending according to the U.S. Travel Association. 

Even though 2020 was bleak, 2021 shows hints of optimism. Coronavirus vaccines are in the distribution phase, prompting some countries to lift restrictions and open their borders to tourism. This doesn’t quite represent a complete return to pre-pandemic status, although it is a step in that direction. Rules still need to be followed and certain restrictions will be enforced depending on the destination.

Many of these countries that are relaxing tourism restrictions have adopted a common denominator in their requirements, and that denominator relates to Travel insurance. To highlight this, please look at the following three countries’ travel insurance rules that tourists are required to follow.*

Costa Rica

Requires that all tourists complete the Passe de Salud (Health Pass). In addition, travel insurance must be obtained before traveling to the country. 

Brazil

All tourists must present the airline company with proof of purchase of health insurance. This is required prior to boarding.

Thailand

Although Thailand doesn’t require travel insurance, it does require travelers to be responsible for all expenses related to the 14-day quarantine government requirement. In addition, you may be responsible for additional hospitalization costs if you test positive for COVID-19. 

By looking at the above three examples, it’s clear that travel insurance plays an integral part in the current travel environment. Such requirements are in place for safety and to protect the receiving country against unpaid hospitalization and quarantine expenses. It also serves as a hedge against costs for the traveler.

But how much insurance is needed? Is purchasing only enough insurance to fulfill the bare minimum advisable? Is it smart to get more than the minimum, or is that simply overkill? These questions can be daunting for the traveler.

Travel Insurance Expert, Dan Drennen with Travel Insurance Center^® sympathizes with the plight that these questions impose on trip-takers. It’s difficult to separate what is required vs. what is needed for your particular situation and budget, says Drennen. Fortunately, Dan and his team specialize in helping travelers research insurance plans in order to make suitable recommendations tailored to the needs of each individual as it relates to their specific excursion itinerary.

Are you in need of Travel Insurance Expert advice? If yes, then Dan encourages you to take the next step.

The Next Step

The Travel Insurance Experts at Travel Insurance Center specializes in finding the best travel insurance options for your specific needs and budget. Reach out by clicking here, or by calling 1.866.979.6753.

*Travel insurance rules accurate as of the printing of this article.(March, 2021)