Should I stay or should I go? – October travel advice for NAHT members

It’s a tough question to answer and with government advice altering on a daily basis there’s no wonder that we’re all in a tizz as to where we can go and what we can do for the October half term break.

One thing that is for certain is that you will have worked hard for your holiday. The first term back has been far from normal with the introduction of bubbles, face masks, social distancing, one way systems and extra cleaning. Add in the pressure of trying to get children back on track after a 3 month stint of home-schooling and it’s clear that all teaching staff will be aiming to dust off the suitcases for a well-earned break.

As of the 27th August 2020, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office still advises British nationals to avoid all but essential international travel. (There is a list of exemptions to this which you can check here. Lloyd & Whyte recommend that you follow the FCO guidance including their checklist for travel. You can find their checklist here.)

Should I staycation?

Many of us will opt for a UK based trip. Whilst you don’t need travel insurance for this, it’s worth checking that your home insurance includes (worldwide) contents cover. This means that the possessions you take with you can still be covered if they are lost, damaged or stolen.

Similarly, you may also want to check the breakdown cover on your car insurance has national recovery just in case you run in to problems.

What should I do about travel insurance if I go?

If you choose for pastures further afield and leave UK shores you’ll need to reassess your travel insurance. If you have an existing policy (which was bought or renewed before 13th March 2020) you have a better chance of having cover for cancellations due to Covid19. As each insurance provider is different, we would always recommend that you contact your insurer for clarification.

If you’re taking out a new policy since the pandemic it is unlikely that any medical expenses or cancellations connected to Covid19 would be included. You will still be able to get these levels of cover for non-coronavirus related causes but it is important that you check that you’re happy with the protection that you have before you book your holiday.

You’ve got to let me know…

Should you stay or should you go? Lloyd & Whyte are experienced insurance professionals who can help you find suitable, affordable personal insurance. We have over 20 years experience of insuring professional associations and are delighted to be affiliated with the NAHT.

Find more information;

Lloyd & Whyte Ltd are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England No. 03686765.  Registered Office: Affinity House, Bindon Road, Taunton, Somerset, TA2 6AA. Calls maybe recorded for use in quality management, training and customer support.