Whenever you plan a trip, it’s important to have the right
level of travel insurance cover. Although we all hope our holidays run
seamlessly, if something does go wrong, the last thing you need is to discover
you’re not protected.
Here’s everything you need to know about travel insurance
for the Caribbean.
Travel insurance must haves
Here are some of the key factors to look for when you’re
choosing an insurance policy for your next trip to the Caribbean:
Validity
Is the policy valid in the Caribbean? When you request a
quote, make sure the insurance policy covers the Caribbean islands. Although
most major travel insurance companies cover this part of the world, there are
usually two types of worldwide policy available – with Caribbean or without
Caribbean.
Medical and evacuation coverage
If you suffer from a serious illness or injury during your
stay in the Caribbean, it’s likely that you will be evacuated by air ambulance.
This means that your medical bills can quickly reach a significant amount. Make
sure you have an adequate level of medical cover and that air evacuation is
included.
Repatriation
If you have to return to the UK for medical reasons, the
policy should cover the cost of the emergency repatriation.
Lost, stolen and damaged luggage
If you’re visiting more than one island during your stay,
there’s a greater risk of losing or damaging your luggage, so make sure you’ve
got a suitable level of cover.
Some areas of the Caribbean also have high instances of
theft, robbery and pickpocketing, so take precautions while you’re out and
about. Ensure that any gadgets, jewellery and other high value items are
covered by your travel insurance policy.
Cancellation or curtailment
A comprehensive policy will cover your costs if you have to
cancel or shorten your Caribbean holiday, including any travel and
accommodation costs you’ve already paid and are unable to use or claim back.
Dangerous activities
The Caribbean is the perfect place to try unique and
exhilarating activities. If you’re planning on going scuba diving, jet-skiing
or trying any other water sports, make sure they’re covered in your
policy.
Hurricane coverage
Hurricanes are relatively common in the Caribbean,
especially at certain times of year. Make sure your policy covers you for any
natural disasters, including delays caused by natural disasters or having to
cancel your holiday altogether.
What countries are included in the Caribbean for insurance?
Insurance policies that cover the Caribbean, usually cover
the following islands:
- Anguilla
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Bermuda
- Cayman Islands
- Cuba
- Dominica
- Dominican Republic
- Grenada
- Guadeloupe
- Haiti
- Jamaica
- Martinique
- Montserrat
- Netherlands Antilles
- Puerto Rico
- St Kitts and Nevis
- St Lucia
- St Vincent and the Grenadines
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Turks and Caicos Islands
- Virgin Islands (British)
- Virgin Islands (US)
Of course, you should always check with your insurance
provider whether your destination is covered.
Do I need travel insurance before booking flights?
Although you can buy your travel insurance at any point in
the run up to your holiday, it’s always advisable to purchase it at the same
time as booking your Caribbean holiday and your flights. Why? A good,
comprehensive travel insurance policy will cover any changes or cancellations that
could potentially occur in between booking your holiday and your destination
date.
What travel insurance documents do I need to take with me?
While most travel insurance policy documents are now easily
accessible online, it’s always worth taking physical copies with you in case of
an emergency, particularly if you’re travelling somewhere with unreliable
mobile phone or Wi-Fi cover.
Travel insurance and coronavirus
Most policies will offer emergency medical expenses and
repatriation if you catch COVID-19 during your trip. So, if you develop
COVID-19 symptoms on holiday and need assistance, you will be covered, as long
as you declared any pre-existing medical conditions. However, it’s important to
note that most policies won’t cover you in the event that your holiday is
cancelled due to coronavirus.
Even when travel returns to normal, it’s likely that COVID-19 will continue to impact our lives, travel plans and insurance policies for the foreseeable future. Always check with your provider what is covered in terms of coronavirus.
For all Covid-19 related updates from Elite Island Resorts, please see here.
How much should I pay for travel insurance to the Caribbean?
The cost of your Caribbean travel insurance policy will
depend on a range of factors, including your age, the activities you’re
planning while you’re away, the level of cover, the duration of your holiday
and whether you have any pre-existing medical conditions.
As a general rule of thumb, the average premium for a
holiday covered by worldwide travel insurance, including the Caribbean, is £49.