The insurance specialist said the decision would “simultaneously” protect consumers against Covid-related issues both pre-departure and during their time abroad. 

Rock said it hoped the policy change would help the trade by instilling consumer confidence to travel even if a destination is removed from the UK government’s travel corridors list.

The policy only currently applies to European destinations, although countries outside of the continent would be announced soon, Rock added.

Policyholders will be entitled to…

Before a trip:
Cover if a customer tests positive for coronavirus within 14 days before their holiday
Cover if they have been hospitalised within 28 days of their holiday
Cover if they are not allowed to board their flight as a result of a positive Covid test or raised temperature
The policy can be cancelled if the UK or the customer’s local area enters lockdown again within 14 days of purchase
 
During a trip:
Cover if they have checked in at their holiday accommodation but the property needs to close as a result of a coronavirus outbreak
Medical cover included if they catch Covid abroad
Cover if it is medically necessary to bring the customer home
Cover for additional accommodation and travelling costs if they contract coronavirus abroad
 
Managing director Antony Martin said: “Due to the continuous updates to travel restrictions, we wanted to bring an option to market that allows travel against FCO advice as it is becoming difficult and expensive to administer all the changes and consumers need to have flexible products they can trust.

“While some insurance brands have launched products that allow travel against FCO advice, we are proud to be the first to provide this type of cover whilst simultaneously protecting travellers against Covid-related issues both pre-departure and during their trip. 

“Our goal is for consumers to continue their holiday plans as normal which will be key to rebuilding the travel industry. We saw an opportunity to provide an integrated solution that would sit as part of our core offering and benefit our partners, potential new partners within the travel trade space and their customers. We are expecting an exceptionally strong conversion as it ultimately provides the customer with the protection and confidence they really need to travel.”