AIG Travel Insurance

Travel Guard is a reputable and well-regarded entity within the travel insurance sector. The company presents three primary coverage options, all of which boast above-average protection against baggage loss and delays and generous medical evaluation coverage limits. While the premium rates may slightly surpass those of some competitors, they remain consistent with the industry’s prevailing norms.

Battleface, the insurance company, surveyed for 2021 and found out almost half of the Americans bore the fees and had to face the losses while traveling without travel insurance. 36% of Americans are now purchasing insurance for traveling abroad in the COVID-19 pandemic, and 34% are now buying for domestic trips.

What is AIG travel insurance?

AIG travel insurance is a way to ensure a safe journey, saves the flight cost, and gives you benefits in case of accidental death insurance coverage, injury during the flight, or some additional benefits such as lost baggage, baggage delay, sickness, and medical evacuation, injury during the flight. In addition, AIG travel insurance can help you get a refund if you miss a flight, cancel a flight, or some mishap occurs while you are flying.

Only the cost of your flight is covered by flight insurance, not all of your prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. In most cases, if an issue covered by your flight insurance coverage disrupts your travel plans, you will only be reimbursed for non-refundable flight expenses. Policies can cover everything from modest reimbursements to lost or damaged baggage. If you’re unsure why travel insurance is essential, read this article for more information.

What is covered in AIG travel insurance?

A comprehensive overview of the coverage included in AIG travel insurance reveals the extent of protection and assistance it offers to travelers in various situations. This insurance plan encompasses a range of benefits that cater to unforeseen events, ensuring peace of mind and financial security throughout your journeys.

Some common problems are mentioned below that are typically covered by flight insurance:

Lost luggage

Even if your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged, replacing all contents, including clothes, electrical gadgets, and medicines, can be costly. On the other hand, travel insurance may help cover many of these products’ costs.

Cancellation of the flight or flight delay

Storms and blizzards are examples of bad weather that cause flight cancellations. In addition, unexpected aircraft delays, such as equipment breakdowns, force you to miss a connection.

Accidental injury

An unforeseen accident or illness before travel insurance On your departure may be the most typical cause of ruined vacations. For example, if you or a travel partner became ill just before a planned trip and had to cancel, you may lose the entire trip fee. In many circumstances, no reimbursement may be available if a medical emergency arises during your trip, and you must return home early. This is where travel insurance may be useful.

Hospitals abroad:

Your health insurance may not apply in foreign countries, forcing you to pay the bill for an entire hospital stay unless you have the appropriate travel insurance.

Airlifts for an emergency:

Helicopter transport could cost thousands of dollars if you were taken to a hospital or rescued from a dangerous situation. On the other hand, travel insurance may cover these expenses.

Loss of a friend or family member:

Suppose your close friend or family member passes away before your leaving date. In a disaster, travel cancellation coverage may allow you to cancel or postpone your vacation.

Early returns and mid-fight diversion:

Even if it’s an emergency, the airline may charge you for your flight changes if you must return home immediately and cancel the rest of your trip. Alternatively, a mid-flight detour requires you to land at a new airport. But, again, travel insurance may help you recover those expenses.

Damaged destinations or terrorist events:

You could lose the cost of the flight, side trips, and even the resort you’ve paid for if a hurricane or winter storm closes the airport for days, preventing you from reaching the resort you’re going to. In addition, a terrorist attack or severe crime was committed near the city you are traveling to. If you buy AIG travel insurance while booking your trip, you may be compensated for these costs.

Immediately signing in the office

What if your backup leaves the business or you’re offered a new position that starts immediately? However, has your trip been scheduled on the work calendar for weeks? In case of cancellation of your trip due to a work-related issue, travel insurance may be able to help.

In the event of an international journey, travel insurance is needed. There should be no doubt that foreign travel is costly, and missing a flight for whatever reason will result in a significant financial loss. Then, on the other hand, domestic and international travel insurance is vital since it is inexpensive and protects you from future losses.

If you’re going on a trip, now is the time to consider getting AIG travel insurance carefully.

Pet bundle coverage

This feature offers a daily travel benefit for boarding and medical expenses related to the illness or injury of a dog or cat. It also encompasses trip cancellation or interruption coverage if the pet falls critically ill or dies within seven days of the scheduled departure date.

Adventure sports bundle coverage

With this option, exclusions for adventure and extreme activities are waived. This means that you can partake in your desired adventurous pursuits without worrying about coverage limitations.

Baggage bundle coverage

Enhancing your baggage coverage with AIG, this bundle provides primary coverage, a higher coverage limit, and benefits for baggage delay. This ensures that your belongings are well-protected throughout your journey.

Wedding bundle coverage

Specifically designed for wedding-related circumstances, this bundle offers trip cancellation coverage in case the wedding itself is canceled. It’s important to note that this coverage does not extend to the bride and groom.

Family member naming bundle coverage

This bundle allows you to designate a single individual as a “Family Member” for the purpose of coverage related to unforeseen events involving family members.

What is not covered by AIG travel insurance?

Each travel insurance policy comes with its own set of exclusions. Therefore, reviewing the detailed terms is wise to understand the scope of coverage limitations. Here are several instances of general exclusions applicable to the AIG Travel Guard Deluxe plan:

• War or Acts of War: Coverage is not extended to instances of war or acts of war.
• Participation in Riots or Civil Disorders: Situations involving participation in riots or civil disorders are not covered.
• Felony Attempts or Commitments: Any attempt to commit or actual commission of a felony is excluded from coverage.
• Influence of Drugs or Narcotics: Unless prescribed by a physician, coverage does not apply if the insured is under the influence of drugs or narcotics.
• Alcohol Intoxication: Instances of alcohol intoxication beyond the legal limit are not covered.
• Travel Against Medical Advice: Traveling against the advice of a physician is considered an exclusion under the plan.

Comprehensive travel insurance policies coverage alternatives

On the other hand, comprehensive travel insurance policies contain a broader range of coverage alternatives, such as:

Emergency medical and dental coverage:

This coverage reimburses medical or dental expenses incurred while traveling due to injuries or illnesses covered by the policy.

Emergency medical transportation coverage:

The insurance reimburses and arranges essential medical transportation for a sudden injury or illness covered by the policy.

Missed connection coverage:

You may be reimbursed for expenses paid due to missing a flight, cruise, or another mode of transportation due to unforeseeable events.

One disadvantage of getting travel insurance through your airline is that you are limited to the airline’s partner provider, which may not be your first choice or may not provide the coverage you desire or require.

When you acquire travel protection or insurance through an airline, you normally won’t fully personalize your plan. Assume, for example, that you will engage in activities that some plans do not approve of (like bouldering, ballooning, or even some volunteer work). In that situation, you may be unable to upgrade to a plan that involves protection for risky activities.

However, if you don’t expect extra coverage (though some would argue that you should never expect to require it), checking that box on the checkout page while purchasing your travel is generally simple and inexpensive. Read it thoroughly to know exactly what is and isn’t covered to avoid disappointment if you ever need to file claims.

Baggage benefits of AIG travel insurance:

When you get travel insurance when traveling to an international destination, you will receive luggage benefits in the following situations:

• Baggage missing/theft
• Damage to baggage
• Delay in checked-in baggage
• Loss of tablet/laptop

How does AIG travel insurance work?

One of the most important things to remember when contemplating flight protection is that any advantages are secondary to any compensation you may receive directly from the airline. For example, if the weather caused your trip to be delayed or canceled, or if you had a claim for lost or stolen baggage, you would be obliged to claim with the airline first for reimbursement under the “contract of carriage.”

This is included with the purchase of your ticket and explains how the airline must refund or compensate you for the cost of your ticket in specific conditions. The difference between what you were awarded by the airline and the policy limit would then be paid by your flight insurance policy.

How much does AIG travel insurance cost?

Travel insurance costs vary depending on who provides it, whether a third party or the airline itself. Although the cost is minor compared to the cost of a ticket, we have previously outlined why you may want to consider comprehensive travel insurance instead in this post.

You can ensure all your prepaid, non-refundable trip costs with thorough AIG travel insurance for an average fee of 4-10% of your overall trip cost. So, for example, a couple in their 50s traveling to Ireland for a ten-day trip costing $5,000 may cover their trip with a comprehensive plan starting at roughly $180, depending on the plan’s exact limits and exclusions.

Should I get AIG travel insurance?

While the cost of flight insurance is inexpensive compared to other types of coverage, it is critical to consider the aspects of your vacation that follow your flight. For example, assume you’ve spent a lot of money on your travel arrangements. In that instance, flight insurance may leave you with certain coverage gaps because of the lower maximum value and limited range of covered events. If you have pre-booked excursion charges or non-refundable accommodation costs, your overall trip cost may easily exceed the plan maximum of airline insurance. It’s a good idea to look into other types of travel insurance so you can find a plan that meets your demands.

You can ensure your entire trip, including your flight, because comprehensive travel insurance may have greater restrictions on maximum plan value and a broader range of benefits. For example, suppose you are injured while traveling. In that case, comprehensive travel insurance may reimburse you for covered medical expenses up to the plan limit and transportation to another hospital if the nearest one does not have adequate facilities to treat your situation, at the discretion of the insurance company and attending physician. All comprehensive plans additionally provide travelers with a 24-hour assistance line.

Travel insurance & drone disruptions:

When it comes to compensation, passengers can file a claim with the airline if their flight was delayed or canceled due to security dangers, such as drones. In the case of these inconveniences, however, the closure is frequently beyond the airlines’ control, and no compensation is required.

Travelers who have obtained travel insurance can also file a claim to seek compensation if a delay has resulted in additional expenses such as a hotel stay. It is yet unknown how some travel insurance companies will handle claims relating to these types of situations. Most insurers, however, provide travel delay coverage for any anticipated carrier delay.

A few particular plans will also cover trip cancellation in this event if the airport is closed due to a proven security breach.

Different airline travel protection coverage:

For starters, each airline’s travel protection coverage varies. Some airlines do not provide trip protection when purchasing normal flights, but they do provide insurance solutions.

While you can purchase insurance through the airline, a third-party insurer will most likely insure your coverage.

Airlines provide a wide range of travel insurance policies with varied benefits, so check the fine print to ensure you understand your unique coverage. Following are some examples:

• Trip cancellation or interruption means you’ll get a return (up to a specific amount).
• Compensation for misplaced or delayed baggage.
• While traveling, you may require emergency medical coverage or help.

Coverage isn’t the only variable that can change; so can the price. One airline may sell a policy for less than $15, while another may sell it for more than five times that much. This is another case where it’s vital to compare the specifics of what you’re getting.

Independent travel insurance:

On the other hand, Independent travel insurance allows you to shop around and choose a plan that’s right for you.

Using an independent insurance agent ensures that you have coverage customized to your trip and allows you to choose products based on the feature’s price.

For example, if you are packing essential or valuable things in your checked luggage, you may prefer a bigger baggage loss refund plan. Similarly, suppose you are traveling to a nation with a higher risk of catching malaria or another disease. In that case, you may want to purchase extra foreign medical coverage or evacuation insurance. And you can only hand-pick the exact coverage you want or need if you shop outside of any coverage offered by your airline.

Which travel insurance is right for you?

The best option for you depends on what type of coverage you require and the complexity of your trip plans. For example, assume you’re going on a quick domestic or international trip to see friends and relatives in a familiar location and don’t intend to engage in dangerous activities. In that instance, the airline’s travel insurance may be sufficient protection for you.

If you’re planning a trip, seeking independent insurance is a good idea.

• a once-in-a-lifetime trip with various destinations,
• Volunteering activities,
• Participation in what some firms consider harmful activities and travel to areas with limited medical care increases the likelihood of being ill.

If your trip involves many airlines, car rental agencies, lodgings, and activities, deal with a single independent insurance firm that will cover your entire trip.

Also, if you use your credit card to pay for your trip, you may already have some travel coverage. Check the fine print to learn what safeguards your card could provide.

Why “Cancel For Any Reason” Travel Insurance is a Must-Have

Trip cancellation insurance is a key part of top travel insurance plans. It covers losses if you cancel your trip for reasons listed in the policy. This coverage offers peace of mind, ensuring you won’t lose significant money if, for instance, you get injured before your trip.

But what if you need to cancel for reasons not covered by the policy?

Here’s where “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR) travel insurance comes in. This upgrade broadens your cancellation options beyond the standard policy reasons.

If you dislike a new Covid testing requirement at your destination or are uneasy about flying in small planes, CFAR coverage has you covered. It reimburses up to 75% of nonrefundable trip costs, no matter the reason for cancellation.

Typically, CFAR coverage adds 40% to your base travel insurance cost.

To get CFAR coverage, you must first buy a basic travel insurance plan. Then, add CFAR within 14 to 21 days of your initial trip payment. Providers set the specific time frame for adding CFAR, and not all offer it.

Travel insurance usually costs between 5% and 10% of your trip cost. So, if your vacation costs $5,000 and your base insurance is $500, you might pay an extra $200 for CFAR coverage.

With CFAR coverage, you can cancel your trip for any reason not covered by your policy. Generally, you’ll get reimbursed for up to 75% of your prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses. Check your policy for the exact reimbursement percentage.

Always read the policy details and know your cancellation deadlines to ensure smooth claims processing.

How much do I get back?

You lose only a portion of what you lose to prepaid and nonrefundable deposits, usually 50% or 75%.

Can I cancel my trip at any time and use CFAR coverage?     

You may need to cancel at least two days before your flight to be eligible for CFAR compensation. If you leave within two days (48 hours), your CFAR coverage might be void.

How to claim and get reimbursement for travel insurance?

Filing an insurance claim is never a good feeling: It signifies you’ve encountered a problem that will cost you money. And filing a travel insurance claim implies that you’ve had a problem with a trip—possibly one you’d been looking forward to for a long time.

Take these measures to smooth out the claim process to maximize your quick reimbursement chances.

How can you properly submit a travel insurance claim?

According to experts, documentation is key to ensuring that your claim is processed swiftly.

Since there are delays in processing a claim, the policyholder’s primary justification is a lack of proof to demonstrate their actual financial loss.

According to the AIG American travel agency’s chief administrative officer and head assistant, they allow the insurer to evaluate the claim thoroughly.

In general, if you obtain a comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes a trip delay benefit and arrives at the airport on the day of your trip to learn that your flight has been delayed, the policy may cover you.

Check your insurance to see how much time you need to wait before you can get reimbursed. Depending on the travel insurance coverage, this could range from three to twelve hours.

At that time, your extra expenses, such as meals, an overnight hotel stay, or a cab journey to a friend’s house, may be reimbursed by insurance. Then, if you produce deciding proof for those covered expenses, you may be paid up to the benefit’s capped amount.

How to File a Travel Insurance Claim: What You Need

If your vacation must be canceled entirely, your insurer will need proof of your out-of-pocket expenses. This can include documentation that you canceled your schedule with the travel supplier and the amounts of any refunds or credits issued by the supplier as part of your reimbursement.

Only prepaid and non-refundable payments are covered by travel insurance. In many circumstances, the supplier may reimburse a percentage of the initial trip cost; therefore, your insurer must see evidence indicating what the provider is or is not going to refund.

Documentation is required for claims on other forms of coverage within a travel insurance policy, such as medical expenditures, misplaced baggage, or lost or damaged personal belongings.

It is critical to maintain all receipts to file a successful claim. You should also file loss complaints with airlines or local authorities for issues like misplaced luggage.

If at all possible, submit your claim documentation online to expedite the process. Many travel providers, for example, feature an online “First Notice of Loss Portal” that can lead to a faster claim resolution.

How can you get cheap travel insurance?

Purchasing travel insurance might be on a trip’s to-do list. A good AIG travel insurance policy can help you pay for medical expenditures while on vacation, reimburse you for lost deposits if you have to cancel the tour, and much more. However, you do not want to overpay for insurance.

The essential price considerations in travel insurance are the entire trip cost, your age, and the length of your vacation. Travel insurance normally costs between 4% and 10% of the trip costs you’re insuring.

FAQs

Do AIG travel insurance plans cover covid-related situations?

AIG offers Travel Guard plans, such as Travel Guard Deluxe and Travel Guard Preferred, that provide coverage for Covid-related trip cancellations and medical expenses.

If you need to cancel your trip due to contracting Covid-19 just before your departure, these plans will reimburse you for 100% of the pre-paid and non-refundable deposits you lose. Additionally, if you contract Covid-19 during your trip, the plans can cover your medical costs.

Do AIG travel insurance plans cover pre-existing medical conditions?

AIG offers pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers. It’s important to review your plan’s details to confirm the availability of this coverage.

With this waiver, your coverage won’t exclude pre-existing conditions. For instance, AIG’s Travel Guard Deluxe plan covers pre-existing conditions if the plan is purchased within 15 days of the initial trip deposit, the full value of the non-refundable trip cost is insured, and you were medically fit to travel at the time of the plan purchase.

Do AIG travel insurance plans include “cancel for any reason” coverage?

AIG allows for an upgrade to “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage on plans like Travel Guard Deluxe and Preferred.

Opting for “cancel for any reason” coverage grants you the flexibility to cancel for reasons not listed in the plan’s standard trip cancellation reasons while still receiving partial reimbursement. For example, situations like canceling due to a furniture delivery, which the standard trip cancellation coverage wouldn’t cover, can be covered under CFAR.

It’s important to familiarize yourself with the CFAR rules for your specific plan. For example, AIG Travel Guard Deluxe provides 50% or 75% reimbursement of trip costs under a CFAR claim. The CFAR upgrade must be purchased within 15 days of the initial trip deposit, and to make a CFAR claim, you must cancel at least two days before your departure date.

What is the process for claiming with AIG Travel Guard?

To initiate a claim with AIG Travel Guard, you can reach out by dialing 866-478-8222 during their operating hours of Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST. Alternatively, you have the option to commence a claim online at travelguard.com. This online process requires your policy number and last name.

After you’ve submitted your claim, you can track its status by visiting claims.travelguard.com/status. You’ll need your claim number and last name to access the status updates.

Is AIG the same as Travel Guard?

Indeed, AIG and Travel Guard are synonymous. The term “Travel Guard” refers to AIG’s range of travel insurance offerings. Under the Travel Guard brand, AIG provides a selection of policies with diverse coverage options tailored to cater to individual traveler requirements.

Conclusion:

If you’re planning a trip or studying abroad, consider AIG travel insurance. It’s a smart investment for peace of mind. Travel insurance is crucial for international journeys due to the various risks it covers. AIG’s travel insurance safeguards you against medical emergencies, travel-related hazards, and flight delays.

AIG travel insurance offers comprehensive coverage. It protects you from unexpected medical expenses, ensuring you’re covered no matter where you are. With AIG, you can handle travel disruptions and delays without stress.

Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or a student abroad, AIG travel insurance provides essential protection. Invest in it to enjoy your travels worry-free and focus on making the most of your trip.