When you’re planning a trip, the last thing you want to think about is the possibility of it being delayed or canceled. Unfortunately, many factors can disrupt your plans, from unpredictable weather to a family emergency. This is where Trip Cancellation Insurance comes in. It offers financial protection in case you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason, and it’s one of the most common reasons travelers purchase travel protection plans. With this coverage, you can be reimbursed for non-refundable, pre-paid expenses if you have to cancel your trip before departure.
Here are the top 10 reasons why Trip Cancellation Insurance is a wise investment for your next trip:
1. Illness or Injury
No one wants to think about getting sick or injured before a trip, but it’s a real risk that can lead to canceling your plans. Trip Cancellation Insurance can help protect your investment if you fall ill or get hurt and are unable to travel.
2. Death in the Family
The sudden loss of a loved one can throw everything into disarray. If a family member, travel companion, or business partner passes away before your trip, you can be reimbursed for your non-refundable expenses under your Trip Cancellation policy.
3. Work Commitments
Sometimes, work demands can crop up unexpectedly, requiring you to cancel your travel plans. If you’re called into work just before your scheduled trip, having Trip Cancellation Insurance will give you peace of mind. (Make sure your plan includes the “Cancel for Any Reason” option, as not all policies cover work-related cancellations.)
4. Accidents
Accidents can happen anytime, and they can often impact your ability to travel. Whether it’s a car accident or any other incident that leaves you unable to take your trip, Trip Cancellation Insurance will help you recover your costs if you have to cancel your plans.
5. Civic Duty
You might get called for jury duty or other civic responsibilities just before your trip. Additionally, if you’re a member of the Armed Forces and are called to duty, your Trip Cancellation Insurance will cover your costs for canceling the trip.
6. Government Shutdown
A government shutdown, like the one in 2018, can disrupt air travel and other services, leading to delays or cancellations. While not all travel insurance plans cover a government shutdown, those with “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage give you the flexibility to cancel your trip for virtually any reason, typically reimbursing up to 75% of your insured costs.
7. Airline Strikes
Airline strikes can have a significant impact on flight schedules, as seen with the 2018 Air France strike, which led to the cancellation of 25% of the airline’s flights. If a strike affects your travel, Trip Cancellation Insurance can help cover the costs of your canceled trip.
8. Airline Bankruptcy
In the unfortunate event that your airline goes out of business, you may find yourself stranded with no way to get home. Trip Cancellation Insurance can help you recoup your costs if the airline fails financially before or during your trip.
9. Weather-Related Cancellations
Weather can be unpredictable, and severe storms can lead to flight cancellations. In 2018, over 500 flights were canceled in Chicago alone due to weather-related disruptions. Trip Cancellation Insurance covers you if inclement weather forces you to cancel your plans.
10. Terrorism
While traveling abroad, terrorism is a concern for many. If a terrorist attack happens within 30 days of your departure in a city you plan to visit, Trip Cancellation Insurance can protect your investment, helping you recover the costs of canceled travel plans.
Travel plans are meant to be exciting and stress-free, but the unexpected can happen. Having Trip Cancellation Insurance gives you the reassurance that you won’t lose your financial investment if something goes wrong. Hopefully, your trip goes smoothly, but it’s always wise to be prepared with coverage that can protect you when you need it the most.
