What you need to know about travel insurance as Tropical Storm Erika heats up in the Atlantic
As hurricane season peaks, and Tropical Storm Erika threatens the East Coast, experts say it's a good reminder take a closer look at travel insurance and how you can protect yourself from so much unpredictability.
"We recommend it for any trip," explained AAA Travel & Insurance General Manager Sandra Horton.
"We recommend it for the value of the trip, so you'll have insurance coverage while traveling, but certainly to cover the cost of the trip - to be reimbursed for all trip expenses," Horton explained.
Horton says travel insurance will vary based on your trip and age, but it is especially important when it comes to medical issues.
"Basically, insurance is for medical reasons, for illness or death to yourself or any immediate family member," said Horton.
"You can get a policy based on trip cost from $25, but it can also go up to a thousand dollars based on total trip cost and age," Horton explained.
And, for weather events? Horton says there are specific policies that include some severe weather issues.
"There are policies you can purchase for cancellation for any reason," Horton explained. "Those policies, however, are a bit more expensive."
Horton advises travelers to consult with a local travel agent to understand the fine print for cancelling for any reason. Because in the case of a cruise, Horton says if the ship sails, insurance will not cover you. But travelers would be reimbursed if a hurricane caused their home to be uninhabitable.
"If you do not want to go because you're fearful of the hurricane, then that is not covered unless you purchase a cancel for any reason plan," said Horton.
She says travel insurance also covers international travel while personal policies usually do not.
For more information on travel insurance from AAA click HERE
