Best travel insurance in Canada for 2024

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Travel, whether for leisure, business, or work, has become integral to our modern lives. While it opens doors to diverse experiences, travel insurance is crucial in providing peace of mind against unforeseen expenses like medical emergencies and trip disruptions, particularly during unpredictable events.

But choosing the right travel insurance can be a challenge and demands careful consideration of factors like coverage, individual needs, exceptions, and more. We've got you covered.

In this guide, we take you through everything from coverage types and costs to the best plans and how to find cheap travel insurance. You can use our comparator at the top of this page to compare plans, get free quotes, and find a policy that truly fits your needs.

Top 10 travel insurance Canada plans

  1. soNomad travel insurance: Straightforward and affordable
  2. Allianz travel insurance: Affordable Plans Starting At $27
  3. Tugo travel insurance: Tailored solutions
  4. Destination travel insurance: Specialized coverage
  5. Manulife travel insurance: Flexible policies
  6. Blue Cross Travel Insurance Canada: Flexible plans for every need
  7. CAA travel insurance: Best for CAA members
  8. RBC travel insurance: Coverage from a reputed bank
  9. TD travel insurance: High coverage limits
  10. BCAA travel insurance: Budget-friendly options

Before we explore the best plans in the market, let's look at the basics of this coverage first.

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a policy that protects your investment in a trip. It reimburses for financial losses of a canceled or interrupted trip, as well as emergency medical care during travel, emergency evacuation, damage to a rental car, lost luggage, and more. The medical care component is critical in a country like Canada. Out-of-province care costs more and offers less than in patients' home province.

It takes different forms. You can purchase it as an individual policy or as an add-on to a travel purchase like a flight. It may even be included as a credit card benefit when you use yours to make a travel purchase.

What is international travel insurance?

International travel insurance is a subset of travel insurance, specifically tailored for trips abroad, while the latter can cover domestic and international trips. The key difference is that international coverage is designed to address the unique challenges and risks associated with international journeys, such as medical emergencies, visa issues, and currency exchange, in addition to covering the same aspects as standard travel coverage, like trip cancellations and lost baggage.

How does travel insurance work?

Here's how it typically works:

  1. Purchase a Policy: Before your trip, you buy a policy, specifying the coverage, trip duration, and other relevant details.
  2. Traveling: During your trip, if you encounter covered events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, or other unexpected issues, you can contact your insurance provider or its 24/7 assistance line.
  3. Claim Submission: Submit a claim with the required documentation, such as medical bills or receipts for lost items, to your insurer for reimbursement.
  4. Reimbursement: If your claim is approved, the insurance provider reimburses you for eligible expenses, helping you manage unexpected costs and disruptions during your travels.

What does travel insurance cover?

What is covered depends on the insurer and the level of coverage you choose. It commonly covers emergency medical care, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and lost or damaged baggage.

Travel insurance is customized based on the needs of your specific trip. A basic plan covering just flight cancellation may be fine if you already have supplemental individual medical coverage and are traveling within Canada. On the other hand, if you are planning a ski trip to the French Alps, a comprehensive plan with emergency medical care and evacuation back home could help set your mind at ease if you experience a bad fall on the slopes.

Manulife’s CoverMe is one of the most popular providers in Canada, and here is what their Single Trip All-inclusive plan offers:

Type of coverageAmount
Emergency medical care
$10 million
Trip cancellation or interruption
$3,500
Baggage loss or damage
$1,000
Baggage delay
$500
Flight and travel accidents
$100,000
Example of single-trip all-inclusive travel coverage

What does it not cover?

Common exclusions typically include:

  1. Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Coverage may not extend to pre-existing medical conditions without a specific waiver or rider.
  2. High-Risk Activities: Activities like extreme sports or dangerous hobbies may require additional coverage or be excluded.
  3. Traveling Against Advisories: Trips to countries under travel advisories or travel restrictions may not be covered, depending on the policy.

What are the different types of travel insurance?

The most common categories are:

  • Baggage insurance - Did you make it to that Caribbean island or European capital, but your luggage did not? It does not have to ruin your trip. This insurance will give you some spending money to get essentials due to a delay or replace it in case it is lost.
  • Emergency medical insurance - You cannot put a price on your health. This protects you if you get injured or sick while away.
  • Trip cancellation - Have an emergency back home before your trip? If you are unable to travel, this coverage will reimburse what you spent on nonrefundable travel.
  • Trip interruption - Miss a connection flight? Maybe you need to return home early? That is okay, you are covered. This is similar to trip cancellation insurance but covers you during a trip rather than before it.
  • All-inclusive policies - Want to be prepared for anything? These policies include all of the above insurance types.

Finally, consider how much you will be traveling in the year. Single-trip and annual coverage options exist. Annual plans may save you money if you intend to travel two or more times per year.

What is travel medical insurance?

Travel medical insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies during your trip, including doctor's visits, hospitalization, and emergency medical evacuation. It is a subset of travel insurance, which covers a wider range of risks such as trip cancellations, lost baggage, and non-medical aspects of travel. You can often purchase stand-alone medical coverage if you primarily need health-related coverage for your trip.

How much is travel insurance?

A basic plan for a 30-year-old single traveler could be as little as $26 for a week, while a comprehensive plan could cost that same traveler $125.

How much travel insurance costs depends on the length of your trip, the destination, the desired coverage, and your age. We recommend plans that include emergency medical coverage.

Age of travellerTrip lengthType of coverageDestination Price
25 years old
1 month BasicJapan$90.02
50 years old
2 weeksComprehensiveUnited States$296.18
50 years old
2 weeksComprehensiveFrance$327.45
75 years old
2 weekComprehensiveMexico$333.31
Travel insurance quotes

How much is travel insurance in Canada?

On average, a basic single-trip policy for a one-week trip may cost around $25 to $50 CAD for an individual, while an annual multi-trip policy can range from $100 to $300 CAD. More comprehensive coverage or longer trips can increase the cost. Seniors and individuals with pre-existing conditions may pay higher premiums.

It's essential to compare quotes from different providers to find a policy that suits your needs and budget. Try our comparison tool below to get free personalized travel insurance quotes for your upcoming trip. Compare rates, explore options, and find the best policy for you in just seconds.

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What does travel insurance for seniors cover?

Travel insurance for seniors offers increased medical coverage over other plans and coverage for stable pre-existing conditions. It works like any other emergency medical insurance plan but is adapted to the needs of senior travelers.

Leading plans medical travel insurance for seniors Canada plans offer:

CoverGuarantee
Comprehensive emergency medical
up to $5 million
Coverage for pre-existing conditions
yes
Direct payment of eligible emergency medical bills
yes
24/7 emergency assistance
yes
Medical evacuations
yes
Senior travel insurance coverage

You can use our comparator at the top of this page to find the best Canadian travel insurance for seniors based on their unique needs. It only takes a few steps and you have free quotes in seconds.

How much is travel insurance for Canadian seniors?

The cost of travel insurance for Canadian seniors can vary based on factors like age, health, destination, and trip duration. On average, a comprehensive single-trip policy for a senior traveler may range from $50 to $200 or more, while an annual multi-trip plan could cost approximately $300 to $1,000 or higher, depending on coverage limits and individual circumstances. Pre-existing conditions may also alter the coverage you can access.

What is the best travel insurance for visitors to Canada?

Leading Canadian travel insurance companies offer medical travel insurance to visitors. These can be perfect for non-residents in the country on vacation, business, or visiting family. These plans can be a lifeline for people living in Canada who have not yet qualified for public healthcare.

The best travel insurance for visitors to Canada depends on the traveler’s needs. Additionally, plans may be available to them from their home country.

Is it mandatory to have travel insurance to visit Canada?

No, you do not need private travel coverage to visit Canada. It is not mandatory for all visitors to Canada, but it is highly recommended. Canada's public healthcare system does not cover visitors, and some provinces may require health insurance for entry. Having travel coverage provides financial protection and peace of mind for medical emergencies and unexpected events. Policies and requirements can change, so check with Canadian authorities for the latest information.

Good to know

If you are sponsoring a parent or grandparent to visit you in Canada, did you know that you are required to purchase super visa insurance? Learn more and compare the best super visa insurance plan in Canada in our super visa guide.

How to get the cheapest travel insurance Canada plans?

So how to get travel insurance? Most importantly, how to get the most affordable plans? Follow these 5 steps to get the best deals.

  1. Compare Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from various insurance providers to find the best price for your desired coverage.
  2. Choose Essential Coverage: Select coverage that matches your specific travel needs, avoiding unnecessary add-ons.
  3. Consider Annual Policies: If you travel frequently, annual policies often offer more value than single-trip coverage.
  4. Review Deductibles: Higher deductibles can lower your premium, but be prepared to pay more in case of a claim.
  5. Utilize Membership Discounts: Check if your memberships or affiliations offer discounted coverage options.

While finding the cheapest travel insurance Canada plan or to other regions may seem like a daunting process, we've got you covered. You can simply use our free comparator below to compare plans, and coverage, check on discounts, and get free quotes in no time.

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When should I buy travel insurance?

Travel insurance can be purchased anytime between booking and departure, but we recommend buying a plan at the same time that you book your trip.

Booking as soon as possible ensures greater protection. The ideal time to purchase is right after making your initial trip payment, typically within 10-21 days. Buying it early allows you to access coverage for pre-existing medical conditions and other benefits. You can often obtain last-minute insurance up to the day before departure, but some coverages may be limited.

But when is it too late to buy travel insurance? Once you've begun your trip or used any part of it, you generally cannot purchase coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions. However, annual multi-trip policies can be purchased at any time, with coverage beginning from the policy's start date.

What are the best travel insurance plans in 2024?

Travel Insurance ProviderCoverage TypesNotable Features
SoNomad
Trip, Medical, Visitors*Affordable and straightforward policies
*Tailor-made coverage with three primary insurance types
*Comprehensive coverage for trip cancellation, delay, interruption, and
medical emergencies
*COVID-19 coverage included at no extra cost
Allianz
One-Trip Prime, All-Trips Executive, Rental Car Damage Protector*Comprehensive coverage plans for various trip needs
*Robust international footprint for effective global assistance
*Versatile plans including medical interventions, car rental protection, and travel interruptions
*Free personalized quotes are available on website
TuGo
Emergency Medical, Trip Cancellation/Interruption, Baggage Loss*$10 million emergency medical coverage
*Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
*All-inclusive plans with age limitations
*MyFlyt Service for airport lounge access during flight delays
Destination
Visitors to Canada, International Students, Travelling Canadians*Specialized coverage for distinct travel needs
*Tailored emergency medical coverage for specific demographics
*Coverage options for pre-existing conditions and various deductible choices
*Free personalized quotes available online
Manulife
CoverMe for Travelling Canadians, CoverMe for Visitors to Canada, CoverMe for Students*Flexible plans with various coverage levels
*Exclusive benefits for Costco members
*COVID-19 plan covering pandemic-related medical expenses and trip interruptions
*Dedicated COVID-19 coverage for certain plans
Blue Cross
Emergency Medical Coverage, Trip Protection, Visitors to Canada*Tailor-made plans based on location and unique needs
*Coverage for pre-existing conditions with short stability periods
*COVID-19 coverage for fully vaccinated individuals
*24/7 emergency assistance and discounts for members
CAA
Emergency Health Travel Insurance, Visitors to Canada Insurance Plan, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance Plan, Vacation Package*Extensive coverage for emergency medical intervention
*Specialized plans for seniors and snowbirds
*10% discount for CAA members
*Easy online application and claims processes
RBC
Deluxe Package, TravelCare Package, Travel Within Canada, Visitors to Canada Insurance, Student Travel Insurance*Coverage from a reputable bank
*Unlimited medical benefits with easy online application
*Exclusive credit card travel insurance options for cardholders
*Flexible payment plans for certain packages
TD
Single Trip Plan, Annual Travel Plan, Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption, Bank Card Travel Coverage*High coverage limits catering to Canadian residents
*Various card options with built-in travel coverage
*Comprehensive coverage for emergency medical care, trip protection, and more
*Bank card travel coverage options are available
BCAA
Travel Emergency Medical Insurance, Visitors to Canada Coverage, Trip Protection Coverage*Budget-friendly options starting at $20 per trip
*No age restrictions, accessible for all seniors
*Free coverage for kids
*Coverage for unstable preexisting medical conditions available for purchase
Best Travel Insurance Canada plans

Please note that the specific coverage, terms, and pricing may vary based on individual circumstances and plan options. It's essential to review the policies in detail and obtain personalized quotes to make an informed decision for your needs. You can do that using our comparator below. Compare multiple plans and get free quotes in no time right here.

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Other popular companies include the following:

You can find more on these options by clicking on them:

  1. AMA travel insurance
  2. CIBC travel insurance
  3. Costco travel insurance Canada
  4. BMO travel insurance (also includes BMO World Elite Mastercard travel insurance)
  5. Medipac travel insurance
  6. Medoc travel insurance
  7. World nomads travel insurance
  8. Scotiabank travel insurance

What are the FAQs on travel insurance Canada plans?

How does credit card travel insurance work?

Travel coverage is a benefit on many credit cards. It is worth checking what your card includes before purchasing a separate policy. You may already have sufficient coverage.

Credit cards with travel insurance usually only cover expenses purchased on that card. Buy your plane tickets on one card, but the hotel on another? The first company will not reimburse you for a hotel issue. Additionally, terms and exclusions may be more restrictive than a standalone plane. Credit card travel insurance is a wonderful benefit, but weigh whether its coverage is sufficient for you and your trip.

The best travel insurance credit cards have offerings like this:

Type of CoverageAmount
Emergency Medical
Unlimited 15 days/year
Event ticket cancellation
$1,000
Travel accident
$500,000
Trip cancellation
$2,000
Trip interruption
$5,000
Baggage delay
$1,000
Hotel burglary
$1,000
Rental car coverage
$100,000
travel insurance credit card coverage

Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?

Many plans now specifically cover COVID-19 cancellation and medical expenses or offer stand-alone COVID travel insurance. They may reimburse costs incurred from a mandatory quarantine, COVID-19 medical expenses, and trip interruption and cancellation. Some specific COVID plans only cover COVID-19 expenses and do not automatically include coverage for other medical needs.

It is worth verifying details carefully before deciding on a Covid-19 travel insurance policy. Covid-19 coverage and news change frequently, so check with your service providers for the latest information.

There are a few important points to consider:

  • Coverage may be explicitly excluded in your policy if the destination countries or regions are under an “avoid non-essential travel” or “avoid all travel” advisory at the time of purchase.
  • Your Covid-19 vaccination status may affect your coverage. If you are unvaccinated by choice, your insurer may declare your claims ineligible.

Do I need private health care coverage when traveling outside Canada?

Yes, we always recommend travel medical insurance when traveling abroad. Healthcare prices and standards can be very different while traveling. Some public provincial plans offer some coverage, but it may be insufficient. Your provincial plan covers may only pay what the cost would be back at home, not the actual price at your destination. Even then, you likely have to pay out-of-pocket and request reimbursement later.

Watch out!

In some countries, healthcare facilities may request treatment upfront. They may refuse treatment if you are unable to pay. This alone makes emergency medical insurance extremely valuable.

Do I need travel insurance to USA from Canada?

Getting a private travel protection plan is highly recommended when traveling from Canada to the USA, as it provides essential medical coverage. Medical expenses in the USA can be exorbitant, and without insurance, a simple hospital visit can lead to substantial bills, potentially running into thousands of dollars.

For example, a basic emergency room visit for minor treatment might cost around $1,000 to $2,000, while more serious medical procedures or surgeries can lead to bills that range from $10,000 to tens of thousands of dollars, or even more for complex surgeries or prolonged hospital stays.

Do I need travel insurance within Canada?

We recommend getting medical travel insurance Canada plans while traveling within the country. Specific plans are available for domestic travelers. While Canadian citizens and residents are guaranteed basic emergency care by the Canada Health Act, this does not include prescription drugs and ambulance services. Your OHIP coverage from Ontario will not cover you for a private hospital, laboratory, or paramedic services while visiting British Columbia.

Additionally, payment for medical services may be required upfront, leaving you responsible for seeking reimbursement from your home province upon your return. Canadian residents traveling within Canada may qualify for a discount on their medical travel insurance.

When traveling outside of your province or territory without adequate coverage, you assume risk. Note that you may already have sufficient coverage if you have a supplemental individual or group private health insurance policy.

Want to protect yourself while traveling in Canada? Compare the best travel insurance medical plans anonymously today using our comparator at the top of this page.

What does travel insurance for snowbirds cover?

Travel medical insurance for snowbirds commonly covers the following medical expenses:

  • Medical treatments
  • Prescription medications
  • Paramedics and ambulance rides
  • Repatriation to Canada
  • Emergency dental care

Snowbird insurance policies do not usually cover elective treatments. Those should wait until you have returned to Canada.

But who are Snowbirds? Snowbirds are people who travel to warmer climates during the cold Canadian winter. They are usually retirees. Therefore, getting adequate protection for their travels is particularly important for these groups. Many of them go to warm parts of the United States, the country with the world’s highest medical care costs.

Snowbirds may be more at risk for a medical emergency while away due to the length of their trips and underlying health conditions.

Good to know

How do I buy travel insurance online?

The easiest way to purchase a travel plan is by using an online comparison tool like ours. See rates and coverage options quickly without giving up personal data. Alternatively, you may purchase it through an agent, a broker, your private individual or group health insurer, or a travel credit card.

How much travel insurance do I need?

The amount of coverage you need depends on various factors, including the destination, duration, and activities of your trip. As a general guideline, consider coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost baggage.

Aim for a coverage amount that provides financial protection for potential unexpected costs while keeping your budget and specific travel plans in mind. It's essential to balance adequate protection with affordability.

What is the best travel insurance for cancer patients?

The best protection plan for cancer patients depends on individual circumstances, including the stage of cancer and current health. It's advisable to look for insurance providers that specialize in covering pre-existing medical conditions, offer comprehensive coverage, and have experience handling cancer-related claims.

Companies like Allianz and IMG Global among others often provide options for travelers with pre-existing conditions, including cancer*. However, it's essential for cancer patients to compare policies, disclose their medical history accurately, and consider consulting their healthcare providers when selecting the most suitable coverage.

Does travel insurance cover cruises?

Yes, travel coverage plans frequently cover cruises. When shopping for a plan, be sure to verify that yours offers cruise coverage. To give an example, RBC offers two popular examples, their Deluxe and TravelCare (for seniors) packages.

They cover:

  • Cruise cancellation or interruption due to mechanical failure or weather
  • Catch-up costs for a missed departure due to a canceled flight
  • Unused shore excursion tickets (due to illness or injury)
  • Last-minute cancellations due to a covered reason
  • Lost luggage, passports, and medications
  • Eligible emergency medical expenses
  • 24-hour worldwide emergency medical and travel assistance
  • Repatriation costs

See our guides on travel insurance in Canada:

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Alexandre Desoutter
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Alexandre Desoutter has been working as editor-in-chief and head of press relations at HelloSafe since June 2020. A graduate of Sciences Po Grenoble, he worked as a journalist for several years in French media, and continues to collaborate as a as a contributor to several publications.

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5 comments
Marylou S.
on

I have had BCAA travel insurance in the past and nothing has changed regarding my medical needs. Am I able to apply for insurance without having to go through all the questions again?

author-profile-picture Alexandre Desoutter Our expert

Hi Marylou,
Thank you for reaching out to us. You should be able to renew your policy without having to go through the whole process again. Here is a link to help you with the same. https://www.bcaa.com/Apps/Travel/FullTravelMedical/Renewal
Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any further doubts. Thank you!

Patricia T.
on

I am wanting a quote for travel/medical insurance

author-profile-picture Alexandre Desoutter Our expert

Hi Patricia,
You can use the comparator tool at the top of the page to find the perfect insurance policy for you. You can then contact the company of your choice directly to get a quote.

Have a nice day,
The HelloSafe team

Julie B.
on

Hi!

If we go to Portugal for one week and France for another, do we buy separate insurance?

author-profile-picture Alexandre Desoutter Our expert

Hi Julie,
It depends. Some insurances contracts cover any trips in a given period, while others are meant to cover a specific destination. You can use the comparison tool at the top of the page to find the perfect contract for you and ask for a quote.

Have a nice day,
The HelloSafe team

Nour
on

Hello, how are you? Does travel insuance covering breast biospys overseas?

author-profile-picture Alexandre Desoutter Our expert

Hi Nour,
Each travel insurance covers different medical services. Please contact the insurer of your choice for more detail about a potential contract.

Have a nice day,
The HelloSafe team

Brian G.
on

Does anybody ever answer the phone at caa Ins. Tried several times and waited half hr or more with no response. I am member but find this very irritating.

author-profile-picture Alexandre Desoutter Our expert

Hi Brian,
We are not related to CAA Insurance and therefore we cannot help you.

Have a nice day,
The HelloSafe team