Trip Delay Insurance
We help you travel with confidence, wherever you go.
What is trip delay Insurance?
A traveler contacted us after her connecting flight was cancelled due to severe weather, leaving her overnight in an unfamiliar city. She had questions about where she could stay, what expenses were eligible, and how to move forward. It can be difficult to deal with unexpected changes during a trip, but since trip delay insurance was included in her travel protection plan, I was able to help her understand how the benefit applied.
This coverage reimburses certain expenses, such as meals, hotel stays, and local transportation, when travel is delayed for a covered reason, subject to the terms of the travel insurance plan. I guided her through the steps she needed to take, from tracking receipts to documenting the delay, and explained what to include when filing a claim. By the end of our conversation, she had a clear plan and felt more in control of the situation.
~ Lin, Licensed Travel Assistance Agent with AXA
When Does Trip Delay Coverage Apply?
Trip delay insurance may offer reimbursement if your trip is delayed for twelve (12) or more hours due to covered reasons outlined in your policy. These may include:
Common carrier delays
Severe weather conditions
Traffic delays due to an accident not involving you
Lost or stolen travel documents, passports, or money
Quarantine
Hijacking
Unannounced strike
Natural disaster
Civil commotion or riot
Road closures ordered by government authorities
Be sure to review your specific travel insurance plan to confirm what events are covered.
How AXA Covers Trip Delays
Three of AXA’s Travel Protection plans include Trip Delay insurance, which may reimburse you for eligible additional expenses incurred during a covered delay. The maximum benefit per person varies by plan:
How Does AXA Travel Protection Address Travel Delays
Whether you're traveling to your destination or returning home, AXA Travel Protection plans include trip delay insurance that may help with unexpected expenses during a covered delay. Covered events may include severe weather, traffic accidents, lost or stolen documents, unannounced strikes, and other reasons listed in your plan.
Depending on your selected plan, trip delay insurance may reimburse for eligible costs such as:
Unused Accommodations
Reimbursement may be available for prepaid lodging you are unable to use due to a covered delay.
Meals and Essential Expenses
Trip delay insurance may cover reasonable costs such as meals,, local transportation, and necessary communication during the delay.
Rejoining Your Trip
If the delay interrupts your journey, coverage may include the cost of an economy fare to help you rejoin your original travel itinerary.
Returning to Your Scheduled Destination
If a delay causes you to miss your return trip, the plan may reimburse for a one-way economy fare to your originally scheduled return location.
Pet Kennel Fees (Platinum Plan Only)
If a delay prevents you from picking up your pet on time, the Platinum Plan may cover additional kennel fees up to the amount listed in your travel insurance plan.
Coverage for Both Departure and Return
Trip delay insurance applies whether the delay occurs en route to your destination or while returning home, provided it meets your plan’s requirements.
How Do You File a Trip Delay Claim?
If you experience a covered trip delay and need to file a claim, AXA Travel Protection makes the process straightforward. To help ensure your claim is processed smoothly, follow these general steps:
1. Review Your Plan Documents:
Check your travel protection plan to confirm that your situation qualifies as a covered trip delay and meets the minimum delay duration requirement.
2. Gather Supporting Documentation:
Collect receipts for expenses such as meals, lodging, or transportation. You may also need documentation from your transportation provider confirming the delay and its cause.
3. Submit Your Claim Promptly:
Visit AXA’s claims portal or contact the claims team to start the process. You’ll need to complete the claim form and upload the necessary documents.
4. Follow Up as Needed:
If additional information is required, AXA’s claims team will reach out. You can check the status of your claim online or by phone.
Remember to keep all original documents until your claim is fully resolved.
FAQs About Trip Delay Insurance
Is Trip Delay Insurance Different from Trip Interruption Coverage?
Yes. Trip interruption insurance may reimburse you if your trip is cut short due to a covered reason, such as a medical emergency or a natural disaster at your destination. This coverage may include unused prepaid trip costs and additional transportation expenses needed to return home early, depending on your plan's terms.
Is trip delay coverage necessary?
Trip delay insurance may help reimburse certain expenses if your trip is delayed due to a covered reason such as severe weather, stolen travel documents, or a strike. Covered expenses can include meals, lodging, and transportation. Reviewing your travel protection plan can help you understand if this coverage suits your needs.
What is the minimum delay duration required for trip delay coverage to apply?
The required delay duration depends on the AXA Travel Protection plan you choose. Most plans include coverage if your delay lasts at least six or twelve hours. This timeframe must be met before eligible expenses can be considered for reimbursement. You can find the exact delay duration in your plan's schedule of benefits and policy documents.
Does trip delay insurance apply to both the outbound and return portions of a trip?
Yes, trip delay coverage may apply whether you are starting your trip or heading home. If a covered delay occurs during either part of your journey and meets the plan's required duration, the insurance may reimburse you for eligible expenses. Always keep supporting documentation in case a claim needs to be submitted.
What documents are required when filing a trip delay claim?
To file a claim for a trip delay, you should submit documentation from your travel provider confirming the delay and its cause. Receipts for expenses such as meals, lodging, or transportation are also required. In some cases, you may need proof of unused accommodations or additional travel arrangements. Refer to your plan for the full list of required documents.
What kinds of expenses may be reimbursed during a trip delay?
Covered expenses may include meals, hotel stays, transportation between lodging and the airport or station, and essential phone calls. Some plans may also provide reimbursement for costs related to catching up with your trip or returning home if the delay affects your itinerary. These benefits are subject to limits and must meet the terms of your plan.
Does AXA offer trip delay insurance for international and domestic travel?
Yes, AXA Travel Protection plans include trip delay insurance for both domestic and international trips. Whether you are traveling across the country or abroad, you may be eligible for reimbursement if your trip is delayed due to a covered reason and the delay meets the minimum required timeframe. Always check your plan details to understand what is covered.
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Travel Assistance Wherever, Whenever
With over 65 years of travel assistance experience, AXA supports millions of travelers across 164 countries. Our licensed representatives are available 24/7 to guide you through medical needs, trip concerns, or questions about your plan. You'll always speak with real people who are here to help, wherever you travel.
