Covid-19 testing is impacting travel

A rise in Covid-19 cases has led to a shortage in testing supplies and delays in results internationally. Entry rules surrounding testing guidelines continue to change to combat the surge. The logistics of securing an approved Covid-19 test, coupled with stricter testing regulations and timelines can disrupt even the best-planned trip. 

When it comes to travel insurance coverage, not all testing concerns are equal, according to travel insurance comparison site Squaremouth. For example, standard trip cancellation policies do not cover cancelling a trip due to being unable to receive a Covid-19 test or timely results.

Even the more lenient, Cancel For Any Reason upgrade, may not be adequate. Cancel For Any Reason requires trips to be cancelled at least 48 hours in advance, meaning it wouldn’t cover any last-minute cancellations related to a Covid-19 test.

Testing requirements can cause issues

Additionally, new testing requirements may pose an inconvenience to travellers. While cancelling due to the inconvenience of a test isn’t covered under a standard trip cancellation policy, it may be covered under Cancel For Any Reason.

Most destinations and airlines have specific tests that are acceptable, often excluding at-home tests. Being turned away for having an unapproved test result isn’t covered under a standard travel insurance policy and may also fall outside of Cancel For Any Reason coverage depending on when the trip is cancelled.

According to Squaremouth, more travellers are concerned about Covid-19 preventing their return, than cancelling their trip. Contracting Covid-19 is covered under most travel insurance policies. Travellers who test positive can be eligible for reimbursement for both medical costs and travel and lodging expenses brought on by an unplanned quarantine. 

Cancelling due to contracting Covid-19 is also commonly covered under most trip cancellation policies. This can often extend to traveling companions and non-traveling family members who test positive.

Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association outlined an agenda for the UK to restore its air transport sector to health by embracing a simpler Covid-19 testing regime.