Best travel insurance in Canada for 2024

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 challenging 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.

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a policy that protects your investment in a trip. It reimburses for financial losses of a cancelled 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.

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. Travelling: 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 travelling 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 coverage	Amount
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

What does it not cover?

Common exclusions typically include:

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Coverage may not extend to pre-existing medical conditions without a specific waiver or rider.
• High-Risk Activities: Activities like extreme sports or dangerous hobbies may require additional coverage or be excluded.
• Travelling 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 travelling 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.

How much is travel insurance in 2024?

A basic plan for a 30-year-old single traveller could be as little as $26 for a week, while a comprehensive plan could cost that same traveller $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 traveller	Trip length	Type of Coverage	Destination	Price
25 years old	1 month	Basic	Japan	$90.02
50 years old	2 weeks	Comprehensive	United States	$296.18
50 years old	2 weeks	Comprehensive	France	$327.45
75 years old	2 week	Comprehensive	Mexico	$333.31

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 for an individual, while an annual multi-trip policy can range from $100 to $300. 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 travellers.

Leading plans medical travel insurance for seniors Canada plans offer:

Cover	Guarantee
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

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. Get free quotes in seconds. You can also check out our guide on travel insurance for seniors with pre-existing conditions.

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 traveller’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.

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 in Canada or 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 Provider	Coverage Types	Notable Features
SoNomad	Trip, Medical, Visitors	Affordable and straightforward Tailor-made coverage with 3 primary insurance types Comprehensive coverage for trip cancellation, delay, interruption, medical emergencies COVID-19 coverage at no extra cost
Allianz Travel Insurance	One-Trip Prime, All-Trips Executive, Rental Car Damage Protector	Comprehensive coverage 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 online
TuGo Travel Insurance	Emergency Medical, Trip Cancellation/Interruption, Baggage Loss	$10 million emergency medical coverage Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option All-inclusive plans with age limitations 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 for pre-existing conditions and various deductible choices Free quotes online
Manulife Travel Insurance	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 for pandemic-related medical expenses and trip interruptions
Blue Cross Travel Insurance	Emergency Medical Coverage, Trip Protection, Visitors to Canada	Tailor-made plans based on location, unique needs Flight Delay Service at no extra charge 24/7 emergency assistance, discounts for members Multiple deductible options for Emergency Medical Care
CAA Travel Insurance	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, snowbirds 10% discount for CAA members Easy online application, claims
RBC Travel Insurance	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 for cardholders Flexible payment option
TD Travel Insurance	Single Trip Plan, Annual Travel Plan, Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption, Bank Card Travel Coverage	High coverage limits Various card options with built-in travel coverage Comprehensive coverage for emergency medical care, trip protection
BCAA Travel Insurance	Travel Emergency Medical Insurance, Visitors to Canada Coverage, Trip Protection Coverage	Budget-friendly options starting at $20 per trip No age restrictions Free coverage for kids Coverage for unstable preexisting medical conditions available for purchase

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 plan. You must weigh whether its coverage is sufficient for you and your trip.

The best travel insurance credit cards have offerings like this:

Type of Coverage	Amount
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

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 travelling outside Canada?

Yes, we always recommend travel medical insurance when travelling abroad. Healthcare prices and standards can be very different while travelling. 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.

Do I need travel insurance to USA from Canada?

A private travel protection plan is highly recommended when travelling 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 travelling within the country. Specific plans are available for domestic travellers. 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 travelling within Canada may qualify for a discount on their medical travel insurance.

When travelling 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 travelling 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.

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, cancer patients need 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 cancelled 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

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