That relaxing feeling you had during your getaway could quickly disappear if you test positive for Covid-19 before your flight home—particularly if you’re not sure whether you’re covered for emergency medical and travel-related expenses.

Here’s what you need to know about your travel insurance coverage before you leave for your trip.

What if I can’t get on my return flight due to a positive Covid-19 test?

If you have trip interruption insurance, you may be able to have the cost of your return flight reimbursed if you departed for your destination before a Level 3 (avoid non-essential travel) or Level 4 (avoid all travel) advisory was issued by the Canadian government.

You may also be eligible for Covid-19 coverage from your travel medical insurance provider if you have a medical emergency requiring treatment and a Level 3 travel advisory is in place.

However, coverage is based on your vaccination status. Partially vaccinated travellers are eligible for up to $2.5 million in coverage and fully vaccinated travellers for up to $5 million.

Be sure to read your policy to ensure you meet the requirements before travelling.

Will my expenses be paid for if I can’t return due to a Covid-related hospitalization?

You can use your trip interruption insurance to offset costs if you can’t go home on your return date due to Covid-related illness.

That means you may be reimbursed for expenses like hotel accommodations, meals, car rentals, taxis and essential calls. But this doesn’t apply if the travel advisory was at a Level 3 or 4 on your departure date.

If you have travel medical insurance, you could qualify for a limited allowance for essentials—even if you contract Covid-19 and must stay in the hospital.

If the travel advisory was at Level 3 on your departure date, you may have coverage if you’re fully or partially vaccinated with a Health Canada-approved vaccine. But if the travel advisory was at Level 4 on your departure date, you won’t be eligible.

If I come home early, can I get a refund on my travel insurance premium?

In most cases, travellers can apply for a refund on their unused travel medical insurance if they return home ahead of schedule.

For single trip medical insurance or a top-up, you must have proof of an early return, with no claims made or paid. Keep in mind that requests must be made prior to the original return date of the trip.

Can I extend my travel insurance?

If you want to stay longer at your destination, you’ll need to purchase a top-up for a multi-trip plan or a voluntary extension for a single trip plan before your return date.

But you may need to complete a new medical questionnaire and increase your premium to be eligible for a top-up or extension.

Whether you’re taking off to a sun destination or a remote stay abroad, travel insurance offers peace of mind of knowing that you’re covered if the unexpected happens.

Be prepared

Navigating ever-changing travel requirements can be confusing. Speak with a CAA Travel Consultant to ensure your travel insurance policy is up-to-date in case you need to cancel or you get sick while away. Visit CAA Travel Insurance for more information.

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