Travel insurance providers often say they “cover COVID-19,” but what does that really mean? In this real-life 2025 case, a U.S. traveler tested positive and had to cancel their trip—only to have their claim denied. Let’s break down why it happened and how you can avoid the same issue.
1. The Real Case: Positive Test, Denied Claim
According to [USA Today, Feb 2025], a 38-year-old traveler from Texas tested positive for COVID-19 two days before departure to Europe. She purchased a standard travel insurance plan through her airline, assuming COVID-19 would be covered.
But her claim was denied because:
She had no symptoms
Her trip wasn’t canceled by a doctor, but by personal decision
The insurer didn’t recognize “asymptomatic positive test” as a valid reason
📌 Result: She lost $2,800 in non-refundable travel costs.
2. Why Some COVID Claims Are Denied
Even if COVID-19 is listed in your policy, it doesn’t mean every COVID-related event is covered.
Situation
Covered?
Notes
Positive test with symptoms
✅ Likely
Must show proof & medical cancellation
Asymptomatic positive test
❌ Often no
Some insurers require symptoms
Voluntary quarantine
❌ Rarely
Needs to be medically mandated
Fear of travel due to outbreak
❌ No
Covered only with CFAR
Government lockdown or border closure
⚠️ Maybe
Only if listed as force majeure
🎯 Pro Tip: Always ask for a clear claims policy document before buying.
3. How to Avoid This Kind of Denial
Action
Benefit
Choose plans with COVID-19 clauses
Ensures proper coverage
Ask about asymptomatic policy
Not all plans treat it the same
Buy “Cancel For Any Reason” (CFAR)
Covers all cancellations (50–75% refund)
Keep documentation (test results, doctor notes)
Essential for filing claims
📌 Tip: Check if your plan includes “medically required trip cancellation” for illness with or without symptoms.
🚀 Quick Summary Table
Risk Scenario
Covered by Standard Plan?
Notes
Symptomatic COVID test result
✅ Often
With medical proof
Asymptomatic COVID positive
❌ Often denied
Not seen as “sick”
Trip canceled by doctor
✅ Usually
Must be documented
Trip canceled voluntarily
❌ Not covered
Unless CFAR applies
Final Thoughts
Even in 2025, COVID-related travel insurance claims are still tricky. The key lesson from this real case? Don’t assume coverage just because “COVID” is listed. Read the fine print, ask questions, and consider CFAR coverage to avoid losing thousands like this traveler did.
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