Travel insurance provides financial protection and assistance for Canadians traveling both internationally and within Canada, particularly when traveling to a different province. It covers unexpected events, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other travel-related issues.
Types of Travel Insurance
International Travel Insurance: For Canadians traveling outside of Canada.
Inter-Provincial Travel Insurance: For Canadians traveling within Canada but outside their home province.
Key Features
Medical Coverage: Covers emergency medical expenses, hospital stays, doctor visits, and sometimes medical evacuation.
Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Reimburses non-refundable trip costs if the trip is canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons such as illness, injury, or unforeseen events.
Baggage Protection: Covers loss, theft, or damage to luggage and personal belongings.
Accidental Death and Dismemberment: Provides benefits in case of accidental death or serious injury while traveling.
24/7 Assistance: Access to emergency assistance services, including medical advice, travel support, and coordination of care.
Requirements and Recommendations
Not Mandatory: While not legally required, travel insurance is strongly recommended for both international and inter-provincial travel to protect against unforeseen expenses.
Destination Requirements: Some countries may require proof of travel insurance for entry, particularly for coverage of COVID-19 related expenses.
International Travel Insurance
Medical Coverage: Since provincial health plans offer limited or no coverage outside Canada, international travel insurance is essential to cover medical emergencies abroad.
Trip Cancellation: Protects against financial losses if a trip needs to be canceled or cut short due to covered reasons.
Baggage and Personal Effects: Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage.
Domestic Travel Insurance
Medical Coverage: Covers medical emergencies that may not be fully covered by provincial health plans when traveling within Canada but outside one’s home province. This is crucial as some provincial plans may not cover all expenses, such as ambulance services or prescription medications.
Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Similar to international policies, this covers the cost of trip cancellations or interruptions for covered reasons.
Baggage Protection: Provides coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage during domestic travel.
Benefits
Financial Protection: Shields travelers from high medical costs and other unexpected expenses.
Peace of Mind: Ensures travelers have support and coverage in case of emergencies.
Comprehensive Coverage: Offers a range of protections beyond just medical expenses, such as trip cancellations and lost baggage.