DENVER — As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to track new cases of the novel coronavirus, airlines and hotels are canceling reservations for those planning to travel to the most affected areas.
With spring break just a few weeks away, some travelers may be worried about what these cancellations mean for their upcoming trips.
Denver7 has compiled a list of tips on how to protect your trip and the money you’ve spent on it.
1. Check with your travel insurance company as soon as possible.
Some travel insurance policies will not cover coronavirus.
Recently, Allianz Travel Insurance issued a statement informing customers that their travel insurance policies purchased on or after Jan. 22 will not cover coronavirus because after that date, the company considers it a “known event.”
Most policies are very specific and cover things like significant injury or illness, severe weather, and terrorist attacks.
2. If you don’t have travel insurance or your policy doesn’t cover the coronavirus, check with the airline or hotel where you plan to stay.
United Airlines and Marriott have both issued statements saying they are allowing customers to change or cancel their reservations free-of-charge if the coronavirus impacts a traveler's destination (such as China).
3. Consider a “cancel for any reason” policy
Typically, these policies are more expensive but if you want to book your trip early, and you're worried that the coronavirus will impact your travel plans, this policy may be the best way to go.