How will the device ban affect your travel insurance?
Important:
Travel insurance rules continue to change as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. We’re working hard to keep up and make sure our guides are up to date, however some information may not be accurate during the pandemic. It’s even more important to double-check all details that matter to you before taking out cover. Please know that some policies may not be available through Finder at this time. Here are some helpful tips:- If you're buying a policy today, it's unlikely that you'll be covered for border closures
- If your travel plans go against government advice, your policy will most likely be voided and you won't be covered
Finally, some good news! Travel is picking up, so some insurers have started offering cover again.
Just remember, you won't be covered for any pandemic related claims if you do take out domestic travel insurance.
Travel expert weighs in on Middle East device ban.
Device ban: Travel insurance update
New information has come to light in relation to whether or not your travel insurance will cover you. Please read the updated story here.
On 21 March 2017, the US and UK Governments announced enhanced security procedures for passengers travelling from or through certain Middle Eastern locations.
The new provisions mean that those travelling to the UK on a flight originating from any country on the banned list will not be permitted to bring personal electronic devices (PEDs) larger than 16cm in length, 9.3cm in width and 1.5cm in depth (or thickness) into the cabin, needing to place these items in their checked luggage instead. The US does not give specifications for the PEDs banned from flights but requires any device larger than a cell phone or smartphone to be placed in checked baggage.
But what happens to that device if it's lost, stolen or damaged in transit?
"Unfortunately travel insurance doesn’t cover laptops, cameras, tablets or phones that are checked in as baggage during a flight, which poses an issue with the new ban," said travel expert at Travel Insurance Direct Ash Zaman.
This is concerning news since Dubai and other locations in the region are international business hubs.
"Our advice is that if you're going to be heading to the USA or UK think about leaving the laptop at home if that's an option. If you need to take it for work, talk to your employer about insurance coverage they have available," Zaman said.
If you are planning on travelling to the region, it's important to confirm if your travel insurance will cover you if you have to check your laptop and how much cover they offer for expensive items at a per item limit.
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