Belize Travel Insurance: Where To Buy

If you're planning a trip to Belize, it's a good idea to consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself from any unforeseen events and ensure financial security. While the mandatory requirement to have travel health insurance ended on July 12, 2022, it is still strongly recommended for all travellers as it covers medical expenses and provides peace of mind. You can buy travel insurance from the Belize Tourism Board's website or upon arrival at the airport or land borders. Additionally, there are other insurance companies that offer travel insurance for Belize, such as Insubuy, Travel Guard, and local insurance companies like RF & G Insurance and Belize Insurance Center. Travel insurance typically costs between 5-7% of the total price of your trip and can be tailored to your needs based on your country of residence. It covers trip cancellations, trip delays, medical emergencies, baggage protection, and more, ensuring that you can enjoy your vacation in Belize without worries.

How much does it cost?

Travel insurance plans for Belize typically cost between 5-7% of the total price of your trip. The cost of your travel insurance plan will depend on several factors, such as the product you select and the number of travellers in your party.

The Belize Travel Insurance, which is mandatory for all visitors upon entry to Belize, costs $18 US for 21 days of coverage. This insurance plan provides coverage for up to $50,000 USD in medical expenses related to COVID-19 treatment and lodging expenses due to quarantine, up to $2,000 USD. It also covers emergency assistance services such as air evacuation and emergency expenses related to pre-existing conditions, as well as trip cancellations and extended stays due to COVID-19.

It is recommended that travellers purchase travel insurance with medical expense coverage, as many U.S. health insurance plans may not cover international travel. A good travel insurance policy should provide coverage of up to US $100,000, but policies with higher limits of up to US $2,000,000 are also available. When selecting a policy, it is important to ensure that you have enough coverage in case you need medical attention while travelling.

Additionally, if you plan to participate in adventurous activities such as scuba diving, parasailing, or bungee jumping during your trip to Belize, be aware that these activities may be excluded from medical coverage under many travel insurance plans. In these cases, you may need to purchase an add-on package or upgrade your travel insurance plan to include adventure sports coverage.

When purchasing travel insurance, it is important to carefully review the policy document to understand the scope and amount of coverage provided, as well as any exclusions or limitations.

Where to buy online

As of February 2022, the Belize Travel Insurance required for all visitors upon entry to Belize can be purchased online at https://www.belizetravelinsurance.com. The insurance is mandatory and costs $18 US for 21 days of coverage. It provides coverage for up to $50,000 USD in medical expenses related to COVID-19 treatment and lodging expenses due to quarantine. It also covers emergency assistance services such as air evacuation and emergency expenses related to pre-existing conditions. Additionally, it covers trip cancellations and extended stays due to COVID-19.

The Belize Travel Insurance website also provides an email address ([email protected]) and phone numbers for both the US (+1 786 275 7090) and Belize (+501 614 8189) for inquiries and claims.

Other companies offering travel insurance for Belize include Insubuy, Travel Guard, and Forbes Advisor. These companies provide comprehensive travel insurance plans that include medical expense coverage, trip cancellation and delay coverage, baggage coverage, and optional add-ons for adventure sports such as scuba diving or paragliding.

When purchasing travel insurance for Belize, it is important to consider the benefits and coverage limits offered by each company and choose a plan that best suits your needs.

What it covers

Travel insurance is highly recommended for anyone travelling to Belize. While it is no longer mandatory, it can cover you for a range of situations and emergencies.

Medical Emergencies

Belize Travel Insurance covers medical treatment for COVID-19, including up to $50,000 in expenses and $2,000 for lodging expenses due to quarantine. It also covers emergency assistance services, such as air evacuation and emergency expenses related to pre-existing conditions.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Trip cancellation insurance can cover prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason. This includes situations like the illness or death of a travel companion or close family member, or a serious family emergency. Trip interruption insurance covers similar situations, but for when you are already on your trip and have to cut it short.

Travel Delays

If your flight is delayed or cancelled due to bad weather or mechanical issues, travel delay insurance can cover the cost of a hotel stay, meals, and some personal expenses. It can also compensate you for prepaid trip expenses that you miss out on due to the delay, such as a guided tour or activity.

Baggage Protection

Baggage protection covers lost, damaged, or stolen luggage. It can provide compensation for the actual cash value of your lost items, and some policies may also offer baggage tracking services.

Adventure Sports

If you plan on participating in adventurous activities like scuba diving, parasailing, or bungee jumping, you may need to add an adventure sports bundle to your policy. Basic travel insurance plans often exclude these activities from medical coverage.

Evacuation

Emergency medical evacuation insurance can cover the cost of air ambulance transportation to a medical centre that can treat your condition. This can be especially important in the case of severe injuries or illnesses that require immediate attention.

Other Benefits

Belize Travel Insurance also covers trip expenses incurred by COVID-19 positive travellers who need to extend their stay. It is also mandatory for all visitors upon entry to Belize and can be purchased online, at the airport, or at land borders.

Why you need it

Why You Need Travel Insurance for Belize

Belize is a tropical paradise, full of ancient wonders and natural beauty. However, as with any trip, there are risks and unforeseen events that could impact your travel plans. Here are some reasons why you need travel insurance when visiting Belize:

Medical Emergencies:

Belize offers a range of adventurous activities, from exploring ancient Maya temples to diving in the Great Blue Hole. While these experiences are exhilarating, there is always a risk of injury or accident. Travel insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind by covering medical treatment costs if needed. In the event of a medical emergency, you can rest assured that you will be covered by one of the best medical emergency policies in the region.

Trip Cancellation and Delays:

Imagine having to cancel your trip to Belize due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or a family emergency. Without travel insurance, you could lose all the money you've already spent on non-refundable expenses like flights and hotel bookings. Travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage will reimburse you for these prepaid costs, ensuring your financial security. It also provides coverage for trip delays, helping to offset the costs of unexpected expenses such as hotel stays and meals.

Emergency Medical Evacuation:

In the unfortunate event of a severe medical issue, emergency medical evacuation insurance will cover the cost of air ambulance transportation to the nearest adequate medical facility. This can be life-saving and provide peace of mind, especially when dealing with a medical crisis in a foreign country.

Baggage Loss and Delay:

Belize is known for its laid-back pace, but what if your luggage doesn't arrive on time or goes missing? Baggage loss and delay coverage will reimburse you for the actual cash value of your lost items and compensate you for essential purchases if your luggage is delayed. This ensures that you can still enjoy your vacation, even when your belongings are not readily accessible.

COVID-19 and Other Illnesses:

While the requirement for mandatory travel health insurance in Belize has ended, the risks of COVID-19 and other illnesses remain. Travel insurance provides coverage for medical expenses related to COVID-19 treatment and quarantine lodging expenses. Additionally, it protects you from other illnesses or injuries that may occur during your trip, ensuring you have the financial means to seek the necessary treatment.

Adventure Sports Coverage:

If you plan to participate in adventure sports such as scuba diving, parasailing, or bungee jumping, be aware that these activities may be excluded from medical coverage under standard travel insurance plans. Upgrading your policy to include adventure sports coverage ensures that you are protected financially in case of an accident during these high-risk activities.

When to buy

In the case of Belize, there is a specific requirement for travel insurance that has been in place since February 15, 2022. All international visitors are mandated to buy official travel insurance to cover any COVID-19-related medical expenses and potential quarantine costs. This insurance costs \$18 and provides coverage for 21 days, including medical treatment and evacuation, trip interruptions, and cancellations. Therefore, it is essential to purchase this insurance before your trip to comply with the country's entry requirements.

While it is possible to buy this insurance upon arrival at the airport or land borders, it is recommended to do so in advance. This will ensure a smoother entry process and provide peace of mind before your trip. Additionally, it is worth noting that some exemptions apply to the insurance requirement, including Belizeans, permanent residents, foreign homeowners, and military personnel, among others.

Furthermore, consider the activities you plan to engage in during your trip. If you intend to participate in adventure sports such as scuba diving, parasailing, or bungee jumping, you may need additional coverage. These activities are often excluded from standard medical coverage, so review your policy carefully and consider upgrading if necessary.

Lastly, keep in mind that travel insurance is not just for emergencies. It can also provide benefits such as trip cancellation coverage, which reimburses you for prepaid and non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to covered reasons. Therefore, purchasing travel insurance early can provide financial protection and peace of mind throughout the entire process of planning and taking your trip to Belize.

Frequently asked questions