Delays can mess up your cruise or flight connections, leaving you stranded and frustrated. That’s where missed connection coverage comes in. While similar to trip delay insurance, they’re not the same. Trip delay insurance helps with expenses caused by delays, but missed connection insurance specifically covers costs tied to missing your connection due to circumstances beyond your control.
Cruise and Airline Compensation Limits
When it comes to missed flights or cruises, compensation isn’t always guaranteed. For airlines, if your flight is delayed for over an hour due to mechanical issues or overbooking, they’re required to compensate passengers. Here’s how it typically works:
- Short delays (1–2 hours): The airline owes you $650 or double the ticket price.
- Longer delays (over 2 hours): You’ll get either four times the ticket price or $1,300, whichever is lower.
Cruise lines, on the other hand, have their own rules about compensation. These can vary widely, so it’s a good idea to check the specific policy of your cruise line before you book your trip.
What Missed Connection Coverage Covers
Missed connection coverage in trip insurance steps in when you miss your flight due to delays beyond your control. For example:
- If your first flight is stuck on the tarmac for four hours because of bad weather or mechanical problems, and you end up missing your connecting flight, this insurance will cover you.
- If an unexpected accident or traffic jam makes you late for your flight, this type of coverage also applies.
However, it’s important to note what this coverage doesn’t cover. If you oversleep, get distracted while sightseeing, or miss your flight due to personal mistakes, you won’t be reimbursed.
Why You Should Consider Missed Connection Coverage
Missed connection coverage is especially helpful for trips with multiple flights or cruises. It’s a smart safety net that reimburses you up to the policy’s limit for eligible expenses. But keep in mind, each travel insurance company has different rules and limits.
Before purchasing a policy, take the time to compare the missed connection terms offered by different providers. This way, you’ll ensure the coverage fits your needs and protects you when the unexpected happens.