Purchasing travel medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage remains a crucial decision for any traveler from Latin America. This comprehensive guide will explain why it's essential, what coverage you should l...
Purchasing travel medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage remains a crucial decision for any traveler from Latin America. This comprehensive guide will explain why it's essential, what coverage you should look for, and how Baraglo's plans protect you from any unforeseen events related to the virus, ensuring your peace of mind and financial security anywhere in the world.
Travel Medical Insurance with COVID-19: Complete Guide 2024
Although the most critical phase of the pandemic is behind us, COVID-19 has not disappeared. It remains a risk factor in international travel, capable of generating not only health problems but also logistical complications and unexpected medical expenses that can ruin your budget. For this reason, travel medical insurance that offers explicit and robust COVID-19 coverage has gone from being an option to a fundamental necessity for the modern traveler. At Baraglo, we have integrated this protection into all our plans so you can travel with maximum confidence.
What is travel medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage?
Travel medical insurance with COVID-19 coverage is a travel assistance policy that treats coronavirus infection like any other sudden illness or accident occurring during your trip. This means that if you are diagnosed with COVID-19 while abroad, the insurance will cover the associated medical expenses, from a simple consultation to an intensive care hospitalization, within the limits and conditions of the plan you have purchased. It guarantees that you won't have to face the enormous medical bills that can arise in another country on your own.
Beyond direct medical care, good COVID-19 coverage usually includes additional benefits that are vital in the context of this disease. These may include:
- Expenses for diagnostic tests (PCR or antigen): If prescribed by a doctor after presenting symptoms.
- Trip cancellation or interruption: If you or an immediate family member test positive before departure and cannot travel.
- Hotel expenses for convalescence or quarantine: If you test positive at your destination and local authorities require you to isolate, covering the cost of extra accommodation.
- Medical repatriation: Specialized medical transfer back to your home country if your condition requires it.
In essence, it transforms the uncertainty of COVID-19 into a manageable and covered risk. Baraglo ensures that all its plans, from Standard to Premium, include full COVID-19 coverage as if it were any other illness, without hidden clauses or confusing exclusions.
Why is COVID coverage still essential in 2024?
Many travelers wonder if, with the reduction of global restrictions, this coverage is still relevant. The answer is a resounding yes. Travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is not an expense; it is an investment in your peace of mind and financial security. The reasons for not letting your guard down are clear and compelling, especially for the Latin American public.
Although the general perception is one of normality, the virus continues to circulate and evolve. An infection abroad can have significant consequences:
- Exorbitant international medical costs: This is, without a doubt, the most important factor. A day of hospitalization in the United States can easily exceed $4,000 USD. An intensive care stay can amount to tens of thousands of dollars. In Europe, although public systems are robust for residents, as a tourist without insurance, you can face bills of thousands of euros. Insurance with at least $50,000 USD coverage, like our Essential Plus plan, protects you from this financial catastrophe.
- Persistent entry requirements: Although less common, some countries may still require proof of insurance with COVID-19 coverage as an entry condition. Traveling without it could mean denial of entry at the airport, losing all the money invested in flights and reservations.
- Unexpected interruptions and quarantines: If you test positive, you might have to extend your stay compulsorily to comply with a quarantine. This involves unplanned expenses for accommodation, food, and rescheduling your return flight. The "hotel expenses for convalescence" coverage of good insurance becomes crucial in this scenario.
- Saturated or difficult-to-access local health systems: In some destinations, especially in developing countries, accessing quality medical care can be complicated or very expensive for a foreigner. Having travel assistance like Baraglo connects you directly to a network of trusted hospitals and doctors, managing your care from start to finish.
Ignoring the risk of COVID-19 in 2024 is a risky gamble. The protection offered by travel insurance is disproportionately high compared to its daily cost, which is usually less than a coffee at your destination.
Key coverages your COVID-19 travel insurance should include
When evaluating travel insurance, it is not enough for it to say "covers COVID-19." You need to understand what that coverage means in practice. Essential COVID-19 coverage must include medical expenses for illness, hospitalization, and medical repatriation. However, a truly comprehensive plan adapted to current reality must offer more than that. Here we break down the coverages that cannot be missing from your policy.
- Medical Assistance for Illness (including COVID-19): This is the pillar of the insurance. It should cover medical consultations, hospitalization, surgical interventions, intensive care, and prescribed medications. Pay close attention to the maximum coverage amount; for travel to the United States or Europe, we never recommend less than $50,000 USD.
- Diagnostic Tests (PCR/Antigens): The policy must cover the cost of tests if they are medically necessary and prescribed by a doctor from the assistance network after the onset of symptoms. It usually does not cover tests required for travel.
- Hotel Expenses for Convalescence or Mandatory Quarantine: If you test positive and cannot return on your original date, this coverage reimburses you for extra accommodation expenses up to a specific limit. It is one of the most valuable coverages in the post-pandemic context.
- Medical and Funeral Repatriation: If the illness is so severe that it requires specialized medical transfer to your home country, this coverage manages and pays for it. It also covers the repatriation of remains in the worst-case scenario, a cost that can be astronomical for a family.
- Trip Cancellation or Interruption "Plus" or "Multi-cause": Standard cancellation coverage is usually for serious illness or death of the policyholder or a family member. "Multi-cause" or "Plus" coverage is more flexible and could include cancellation if you test positive on a mandatory PCR test before traveling. Always review the specific conditions of this coverage.
- Family Member Transfer: If you are hospitalized for an extended period (generally more than 5-7 days), the insurance may cover the airfare for a family member to accompany you.
- Telemedicine or Remote Medical Assistance: The possibility of having a medical consultation via video call for mild symptoms is an invaluable convenience. It allows you to get a preliminary diagnosis and prescription without having to go to a medical center, ideal for the first symptoms.
Check the fine print and make sure these coverages are clearly stipulated in the policy you choose. At Baraglo, we pride ourselves on the transparency and clarity of our plans.
Comparison of Baraglo plans with COVID-19 coverage
All our travel assistance plans provide robust COVID-19 coverage, treating it as any other illness. The choice of plan will depend on your destination, the duration of your trip, and the level of peace of mind you wish to have. Below, we present a comparison to help you decide. Remember, our Essential Plus plan offers an ideal balance between cost and robust coverage, especially for demanding destinations.
| Plan |
Total Medical Coverage |
COVID-19 Coverage |
Ideal for |
Approx. Price (USD/day) |
| Standard |
USD 35,000 |
Included up to plan limit |
Travel within Latin America, short getaways. |
$4.99 |
| Essential Plus |
USD 50,000 |
Included up to plan limit |
Europe, Asia, cruises. Excellent cost-benefit balance. |
$5.29 |
| Premium |
USD 100,000 |
Included up to plan limit |
United States, Canada, long trips, families, maximum peace of mind. |
$8.99 |
| Europe Plan (or Schengen Visa) |
USD 30,000 |
Included up to plan limit |
Travelers from Dominican Republic, Ecuador, and Bolivia who need a Schengen visa. |
$2.99 |
As you can see, COVID-19 coverage is integrated into the total medical assistance amount of each plan. This gives you the flexibility to use the coverage for any medical emergency, be it COVID-19 or a fracture. For the vast majority of destinations and trip types, the Essential Plus Plan of $50,000 USD represents the optimal point of security and price, meeting and exceeding the requirements of most countries.
How does COVID-19 coverage work in practice?
Having insurance is the first step, but knowing how to use it in a stressful moment is just as important. The process is designed to be as simple and quick as possible, so you can focus on your recovery. If you start to feel COVID-19 symptoms during your trip, these are the steps to follow.
- Do not self-medicate or go to the first hospital: The most important thing is to stay calm. Your first contact should always be with Baraglo's 24/7 emergency center. Contact numbers and alternative methods (such as WhatsApp or email) will be on your voucher.
- Report your situation: Contact the center and explain your symptoms, your location, and provide your policy number. A medical coordinator will assess your case.
- Follow instructions: Based on your situation and location, the coordinator will guide you. This may involve:
- Coordinating a telemedicine consultation for an initial evaluation.
- Sending a doctor to your hotel or accommodation (if the service is available in the area).
- Directing you to the nearest and most appropriate network hospital or clinic for your care.
- Direct payment management: When you go to a medical center in our network, Baraglo takes care of coordinating the direct payment of expenses covered by your plan. This way, you don't have to pay large sums of money out of your pocket (except for possible deductibles, if applicable).
- Keep communication open: It is vital to keep the assistance center informed about your progress and follow their instructions for any additional procedures, such as tests, hospitalization, or medication purchases.
This coordinated process is one of the greatest benefits of assistance insurance. It not only covers expenses but also guides you through a foreign healthcare system that can be confusing and overwhelming. You will find more details in our article on how to use your travel insurance in an emergency.
COVID-19 coverage based on your destination: requirements and recommendations
The level of coverage you need is directly related to the cost of medical care at your destination. For destinations like Europe, robust insurance is an essential requirement; the minimum recommended coverage is $50,000 to avoid any unforeseen events. Below are our specific recommendations by region.
Europe and the Schengen Area
For most Latin American travelers (from countries like Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay, etc.), a visa is not required to enter the Schengen Area for tourism up to 90 days. However, having travel insurance is an implicit and highly recommended migratory requirement. Authorities may request it upon your arrival and deny you entry if you do not have it. The official minimum requirement is €30,000 (approximately $32,000 USD), but due to medical costs, we recommend higher coverage.
- Our recommendation: The Essential Plus Plan ($50,000 USD) is perfect. It far exceeds the minimum and gives you a wide margin of safety in case of hospitalization due to COVID-19. We do not recommend traveling to Europe with coverage lower than $35,000 USD; therefore, the Basic Plan is not an option for this destination.
- Special case (Dominicans, Ecuadorians, Bolivians): Citizens of these countries do need to apply for a Schengen visa. For them, it is mandatory to present insurance that meets all consulate requirements. Our Schengen Visa Plan ($30,000 USD) is specifically designed to meet these demands at a very competitive price.
- Learn more about insurance for Europe here.
United States and Canada
These two countries are known for having the most expensive healthcare systems in the world for non-residents. A simple check-up in an emergency room can cost over $1,000 USD, and hospitalization for COVID-19 can lead to lifelong debt. Here, minimum coverage is not an option; you need the maximum possible protection.
- Our recommendation: The Premium Plan ($100,000 USD) is the most prudent choice. Although the Essential Plus Plan ($50,000 USD) may be sufficient for a minor emergency, a COVID-19 complication can quickly exhaust that sum. Investing in $100,000 coverage gives you the necessary peace of mind to travel to these destinations.
Latin America and the Caribbean
Although medical costs may be lower than in North America or Europe, the quality and accessibility of healthcare systems vary enormously from country to country. In many places, the best care is found in private clinics with high costs for tourists.
- Our recommendation: The Standard Plan ($35,000 USD) is usually adequate for most trips within the region. It offers solid coverage for common emergencies, including COVID-19. If you travel to remote areas or for extended periods, consider upgrading to the Essential Plus Plan for greater security.
Special considerations: travelers over 75 years old and COVID-19
Older travelers are a group that needs special consideration, as they statistically present a higher risk of complications from diseases like COVID-19. At Baraglo, we extend our protection to all travelers, but with adjustments that reflect this increased risk to ensure that coverage is always sufficient and sustainable.
For travelers over 75 years old, a 50% surcharge applies to the chosen plan price. This adjustment is not a penalty but a measure to offer the same quality and coverage limits to a segment of the population that, if they need assistance, will likely require more intensive and costly medical services.
Practical example:
- A 60-year-old traveler purchases the Essential Plus Plan for $5.29 USD per day.
- A 78-year-old traveler purchasing the same Essential Plus Plan would pay an additional 50%. The calculation would be: $5.29 + ($5.29 * 0.50) = $7.94 USD per day.
In exchange for this adjustment, the older traveler gains the peace of mind of knowing they have access to robust coverage of $50,000 USD or more, vital to face a COVID-19 complication or other serious medical emergency abroad.
Steps to purchase your travel insurance with COVID coverage from Baraglo
Purchasing your travel assistance from Baraglo is a fast, simple, and 100% online process. In just a few minutes, you can have your policy in your email, ready for your adventure.
- Go to our online quote tool.
- Fill in your trip details: Origin, destination(s), departure and return dates.
- Indicate the number of passengers and their ages. Our system will automatically calculate any necessary adjustments, such as the surcharge for travelers over 75.
- Compare plans: You will see a clear table with the Standard, Essential Plus, and Premium plans, their coverages, and prices. You can review the details of each one.
- Choose your plan and fill in your details: Select the plan that best suits your needs and complete your personal information.
- Make the payment: We use a secure payment gateway to protect your information.
- Receive your voucher: Done! In moments, you will receive your insurance voucher in your email with all the coverage details, terms and conditions, and emergency contact numbers.
Ready to travel protected? COVID-19 no longer has to be a concern in your plans. Protect your health and your investment with comprehensive travel assistance. Get a quote for your Baraglo travel insurance now in seconds and travel with the peace of mind you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my local health insurance or credit card cover me abroad for COVID-19?
Generally, no. Local health insurance (EPS, prepaid plans, social security) usually has limited or no coverage outside your country of residence. On the other hand, assistance included with credit cards often has very low coverage amounts (e.g., $15,000-$25,000 USD), restrictive clauses, and operates on a reimbursement basis, meaning you have to pay first. Specific travel insurance like Baraglo offers higher amounts and direct payment.
What happens if I test positive for COVID-19 just before traveling?
This depends on the type of cancellation coverage you have. A "multi-cause" or "plus" cancellation coverage usually contemplates this scenario, allowing you to recover part of your non-reimbursable travel expenses. Standard cancellation coverages may not include it. It is crucial to review the conditions of your plan's cancellation coverage before purchasing it.
Does insurance cover mandatory quarantine at the destination if I am not sick?
Most travel insurance policies cover hotel expenses for convalescence or quarantine if you test positive for COVID-19 (i.e., you are sick). However, they generally do not cover a preventive quarantine imposed by a government on all travelers or a group (for example, passengers on a flight) if you do not have a positive diagnosis. Coverage is activated by a medical condition, not by a general administrative measure.
Do Baraglo plans cover PCR or antigen tests?
Yes, as long as the test is prescribed by a doctor from the assistance center or a medical center in the network due to the presence of symptoms compatible with COVID-19. Coverage is intended to diagnose an illness during the trip. Tests performed purely as a requirement to board a flight, a cruise, or cross a border are not covered.
Do I need COVID insurance to travel to Europe if I am from Argentina/Chile/Mexico?
While you don't need a visa, travel insurance with medical coverage (including COVID-19) is an entry requirement for the Schengen Area that migration officers may randomly request. Traveling without it is a risk, as they could deny you entry. Furthermore, due to the high healthcare costs in Europe for non-residents, it is indispensable financial protection. For these cases, the "Europe Plan," ideally our Essential Plus plan of $50,000 USD, is recommended.
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