While some insurance companies have very recently launched new Covid-related products, the vast majority do not offer these, and many who previously did have since withdrawn their offerings as of mid-March, leaving customers unprotected.

“There are insurance policies available that offer some protection once you have departed, covering medical expenses should you become ill with Covid-19. However, what happens if the customer needs to return home and a border is closed, or the FCO revises advice ‘not to travel’?” said Anthony Martin, Managing Director at Rock Insurance. “Consumers and agents need to be very clear on what is covered, by whom, and currently this clarity is simply not there.”

As such, Rock Insurance Group will now be running Zoom consultations until June 22 to encourage an open discussion on the issue between the travel trade and major insurance providers.

According to Rock, the travel industry needs to deal with two key issues to get customers booking again: booking flexibility and Covid-19 cover in travel insurance. Peace of mind provided by being able to change destinations and dates without incurring penalty fees will help restore customer confidence, as will cancellation cover options.

“It’s important we get a consensus from the travel industry on the products it needs the insurance sector to supply,” said Martin. “The more consistent the product the easier it will be to explain to customers and help remove the current confusion over who covers what.”