Travel cancellation insurance: Everything you need to know before you leave
Ready to set off on your trip, but a little hesitation is holding you back because of unforeseen circumstances? Don't let a last-minute cancellation spoil your plans! Find out how travel cancellation insurance can protect you against unforeseen costs, the reasons for cancellation covered, and how to take out insurance easily so you can leave with peace of mind. Whether you're on holiday with your family, on a business trip or on your own, you'll find all the information you need to be well covered!
Guarantees covered by travel cancellation insurance
When you take out a cancellation insurance If you're planning a trip, it's essential to understand the guarantees that protect you in the event of a change of programme. These guarantees cover several scenarios that could compromise your trip. Depending on your contract, you will be reimbursed for the costs incurred in the event of cancellation, which can save you considerable financial loss.
Reasons for cancellation: What your insurance really covers
The grounds for cancellation vary according to your contract, but most insurance policies cover fairly common situations.
Examples of reasons for cancellation covered by a travel cancellation contract
- Unforeseeable illness or serious accident (with medical proof)
- Death of a close family member
- Loss of employment (if this occurs after the insurance has been taken out)
- Inability to travel due to pregnancy or hospitalisation
- Accident or health problem requiring interruption of travel
- Cancellation or change of travel conditions by the carrier (e.g. flight cancellation)
- Travel bans imposed by the authorities (e.g. pandemic-related restrictions)
- The occurrence of a natural disaster at the place of departure or arrival (e.g. flood, storm)
- Breach of an employment contract in the context of professional assignments abroad
The refund will depend on the specific conditions of your contract, such as the amount of the costs incurred and the time at which you cancel.
Exceptions: Which events are not supported?
It is also important to know what your insurance does not cover. Certain situations are generally excluded, such as cancellations due to foreseeable reasons, such as a simple disruption to your schedule. Unannounced strikes, changes of plans for personal reasons without legal or medical justification, and events linked to irresponsible behaviour such as excessive alcohol consumption are not generally covered.
It is therefore essential to read the exclusions mentioned in the general terms and conditions carefully to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If in doubt, don't hesitate to consult your insurer for clarification of specific situations that may not be covered.
How do cancellation charges refunds work?
If you have to cancel your trip, understanding how cancellation reimbursement works will help you avoid surprises. Depending on the conditions of your contract, the amount refunded may vary.
The amount you can be reimbursed depends mainly on the costs incurred prior to cancellation and the compensation limit stipulated in your contract.
Generally, transport costs (plane tickets, trainetc.) and accommodation (hotel reservations, holiday rental) can be covered. But be careful: each policy has its own limits. These limits are often set according to the total value of your trip or the percentage of costs incurred.
For example, some contracts cover up to 100 % of costs in the event of cancellation for serious reasons, while others apply a lower percentage depending on the date of cancellation. Some insurance policies apply excesses, which may reduce the amount to be reimbursed.
Steps to take to recover your expenses
There are a few simple but important steps you need to take to recover the costs you have incurred.
- Contact your insurer as soon as possible.
- Gather your supporting documents (medical certificate, proof of cancellation, etc.).
- Prepare a copy of your expenses (tickets, bookings, etc.).
- Submit your claim in accordance with the insurer's instructions.
- Assessment of your claim by the insurer based on the general terms and conditions of the contract
- Receive your compensation in accordance with the terms and conditions of your policy.
Don't forget to keep all your receipts for travel expenses and payments.
Why take out travel cancellation insurance?
Taking out travel cancellation insurance means protecting yourself against unforeseen circumstances that could jeopardise your holiday plans. Whether for medical, professional, personal or study-related reasons, or in the event of natural disasters at your destination, cancellation insurance enables you to obtain reimbursement of the costs incurred if you have to cancel your trip.
You are strongly advised to take out this insurance as soon as you start booking, ideally within 48 hours of making your first booking, so that you are covered in the event of cancellation before your departure. This period is crucial to ensure that you are eligible for a refund of transport costs, accommodation or other prepaid services in the event of unforeseen circumstances. By taking out insurance early, you can be sure of comprehensive cover and financial protection in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
When and how do I take out travel cancellation insurance?
Deciding when to take out travel cancellation insurance may seem complex, but it's actually quite simple if you know what you need. This step is crucial to ensuring that you are covered in the event of the unexpected. So when should you take out insurance, and how can you do it effectively?
The best time to take out travel cancellation insurance is immediately after booking your tickets or accommodation. By acting quickly, you ensure that you are covered as soon as you incur costs. Some insurances even allow you to benefit from cover as soon as you book. If you wait too long, you risk losing this protection if unforeseen events occur before your departure.
Applying for cover couldn't be simpler: you can apply directly online, often via specialist platforms or your travel agent. Simply fill in a form with the details of your trip and choose the cover that suits your needs. Make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions of the policy, such as exclusions and compensation limits, before validating your contract.
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