If my family member or I get sick, am I covered to cancel?

Last Updated: October 25, 2013November 27, 2024

Planning a trip is exciting, but what happens if an unexpected illness strikes before you leave? Whether you or a family member is falling ill, this guide explains how trip cancellation coverage works, what’s typically covered, and what to check in your travel insurance policy. But, of course, always read the fine print of your insurance company’s policy, as each is unique.

What Is Trip Cancellation Insurance?

Trip cancellation insurance reimburses prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you have to cancel your plans for a covered reason. Illness is one of the most commonly covered reasons, but not all policies are created equal. Understanding your policy’s specifics is crucial.

To qualify for trip cancellation benefits due to illness:

Proof is Required: You’ll need documentation detailing the medical reasons that prevent travel by the scheduled departure date. Something as simple as a doctor’s note would suffice.
Severity Matters: Travel insurance coverage often hinges on whether the illness is severe enough to interfere with travel plans. Minor colds typically don’t qualify for travel protection, but conditions requiring medical treatment, hospitalization, or extended care usually do.

Does Coverage Extend to Family Members?

Many policies cover trip cancellation if an immediate family member, like a spouse, parent, or child, becomes seriously ill. However, coverage may not extend to more distant relatives (e.g., cousins or in-laws) unless specifically listed.

Most policies also include coverage for traveling companions, so check your policy’s definition of “covered family members.”

How Can You Maximize Your Coverage?

Choose the Right Policy

Not all travel insurance plans offer comprehensive trip cancellation benefits. When exploring policies and comparing coverage benefits, consider the following:

Compare plans that include comprehensive travel cancellation options.
Look for policies that cover pre-existing conditions (more on this below).

Understand Pre-Existing Medical Condition Waivers

If your or your family member’s illness is related to a pre-existing condition, you’ll need a policy with a pre-existing condition waiver. To qualify:

Purchase the policy within a set window, often 14-21 days after making your first trip payment.
Be medically fit to travel when the policy is purchased.

Consider Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) Coverage

For ultimate flexibility, CFAR coverage allows you to cancel for reasons not covered by standard policies.

Typically reimburses up to 75% of your trip costs.
It must be purchased within a short window after your first trip payment.

Filing a Claim and Coverage

Travel insurance benefits can only help if you file the claim and it’s approved. But, filing for most providers is easy.

Here are a few quick tips:

Notify Your Insurer Promptly: Some companies require notice within 48 hours of cancellation, not last minute.
Gather Documentation: Keep all receipts, medical expenses, and proof of illness.
Follow-up: Ensure your insurer receives all required forms to expedite the claims process.

If your claim is approved, you can be reimbursed for trip expenses like non-refundable airline tickets, prepaid hotel stays, and tour or cruise costs.

Pro Tip: Check whether your policy covers rebooking fees if you’re rescheduling instead of canceling.

FAQs About Canceling Travel Due to Illness

Do I Need a Doctor’s Note for My Claim?

Yes, most insurers require proof from a physician stating you or your family member cannot travel due to illness.

Can I Cancel if My Travel Companion Gets Sick?

Yes, as long as your travel companion has the same itinerary and their illness meets the coverage criteria.

What If I’m Already on My Trip?

If illness strikes mid-trip, look for coverage options like trip interruption insurance, which reimburses for unused trip costs and unexpected expenses to return home.

How Much Does Trip Cancellation Insurance Cost?

Unfortunately, some pre-planned travel activities charge cancellation fees. However, with insurance, trip cancellation insurance typically costs 5-10% of your trip, which tends to be less than the fees for activities or the change fee for airfare that airlines will charge.

How Does Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Insurance Work?

Trip Cancellation covers prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you cancel before departure for a covered reason. Trip interruption covers unused trip costs and additional expenses if you cut your trip short for a covered reason. You can learn more here.

Find the Best Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation

No one plans to get sick, but having the right travel insurance can ease the stress of unexpected changes. Use Squaremouth’s comparison tool to find a plan tailored to your needs and budget.

Choosing a policy covering illness can protect your travel investment and plan with peace of mind.