- The Best family Travel Insurance Plans
- What exactly is family travel insurance?
- The price of family travel insurance
- What does family travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of family travel insurance
- Why take out family travel insurance?
- How to Choose the Right Family Travel Insurance
- Current Insurance Policies and family Travel Insurance
- FAQ
family travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Family travel insurance bundles coverage for parents and dependent children under a single, cost-effective travel policy.
2. Price: For a one-week family trip to Europe, expect to pay between $120 and $250 CAD.
3. Coverage: It covers medical emergencies and trip cancellation but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Provincial plans (like OHIP/RAMQ) and credit cards offer very limited or no coverage abroad for families.
5. Tips: Prioritize high medical limits ($1M+), check child age limits, and verify pre-existing condition stability clauses.
6. Other useful info: An annual multi-trip plan can be more cost-effective for families who travel frequently each year.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best family travel insurance.
The Best family Travel Insurance Plans
Here is a selection of the best family travel insurance plans available for residents of Canada in 2025. These policies stand out for their high coverage limits, low deductibles and flexible conditions, ensuring optimal protection for worry-free family travel.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1,025,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Family bundle covers two adults and children. • Family repatriation included. • No age-based premium increase. • 24/7 multi-language support for all ages. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1,025,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • 24/7 emergency hotline. • Child escort to Canada. • Direct billing to hospitals. • Pre-existing conditions option. |
| Tourist Card | $220,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Fast and easy online claims. • Baggage and trip cancellation covered. • Flexible family options. • Multi-risk guarantees. |
| World Travel | $1,025,000 CAD (USA/Canada), $440,000 CAD (others) | $50 CAD | • High medical coverage for North America. • Covers family visits in emergencies. • Psychological support. • Worldwide assistance. |
| Globe Partner | $440,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Simple enrolment for families. • Covers major destinations. • No deductible per family member. • All claims paperless. |
| Globe Traveller | $440,000 CAD | $0 CAD | • Suited for long trips and families. • Coverage stable after 60 years. • Global support. • Family plans available. |
• Family repatriation included.
• No age-based premium increase.
• 24/7 multi-language support for all ages.
• Child escort to Canada.
• Direct billing to hospitals.
• Pre-existing conditions option.
• Baggage and trip cancellation covered.
• Flexible family options.
• Multi-risk guarantees.
• Covers family visits in emergencies.
• Psychological support.
• Worldwide assistance.
• Covers major destinations.
• No deductible per family member.
• All claims paperless.
• Coverage stable after 60 years.
• Global support.
• Family plans available.
The best family travel insurance may differ for each individual. We invite you to use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to find the plan that suits you best and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareWhat exactly is family travel insurance?
Family travel insurance is a comprehensive policy that covers one or two adults and their dependent children during trips, offering financial protection against unexpected events affecting any family member.
The policy is designed to cover emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and family-specific needs such as child medical care or family repatriation.
All family members are listed on one policy, usually at a better rate than buying individual plans.
It is sometimes offered as an option or add-on to a standard travel insurance policy.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out family travel insurance is especially important for residents of Canada:
- When traveling outside of Canada, where provincial health plans don't apply.
- For trips to countries with high medical costs like the USA.
- If traveling with children or elderly family members with health risks.
- When a family member has a pre-existing medical condition.
- If you book an expensive or non-refundable family vacation package.
- When your family plans to participate in adventure sports or activities.
- For peace of mind with 24/7 assistance and family-specific coverage.
The price of family travel insurance
On average, family travel insurance costs between 3% and 7% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1-week vacation to Florida | 5,000 | 40 to 80 |
| 2-week road trip across Canada | 7,000 | 55 to 110 |
| 10-day city tour in Europe | 6,500 | 50 to 100 |
| 3-week cultural trip to Japan | 9,000 | 70 to 140 |
These prices are provided as an indication and may vary depending on the type of plan chosen (standard or premium) and the specific conditions of each insurer.
The price of your family travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer the family trip, the higher the cost.
- destination: travel to countries with higher healthcare costs, like the USA or Japan, raises premiums.
- number and age of travelers: more family members and older adults increase the total cost.
- level of coverage: higher medical limits, baggage protection, and low deductibles mean higher premiums.
- selected options: adding trip cancellation, sports, or adventure activities will increase the price.
What does family travel insurance cover?
Family travel insurance is a comprehensive insurance that covers one or more adults and their dependent children under a single plan. It is designed to provide financial protection for unexpected events during domestic or international trips.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | This covers prepaid trip costs if you must cancel before departure for a covered reason. | We recommend at least $2,000 coverage per family member and no deductible over $50. Pre-existing conditions, pregnancy or change of mind are often excluded. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Provides for additional transport if you miss your departure due to a covered reason beyond your control. | At least $300 per person should be covered. No deductible is ideal. Being late, not providing proof, or traffic are commonly excluded. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss or theft | Compensates for your luggage if it is lost, stolen, or damaged during the trip. | Choose $1,000 minimum baggage cover per person, with a deductible under $30. Unattended, forgotten, or unsupervised items are usually excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Pays a fixed amount for long flight or train delays affecting your journey. | Look for $100 or more compensation after a 4-hour delay, with no deductible. Delays under 4 hours, weather issues, or lack of proof are excluded. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. This pays for urgent medical care if you become ill or injured abroad. | Minimum $1M coverage is essential, with no deductible or a maximum of $50. Routine care, chronic diseases and elective treatment are often excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Covers medically necessary transport back to Canada. | The cover should be unlimited and arranged by the insurer. Voluntary repatriation, refusal by the insurer and non-emergency repatriation are not covered. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Pays for emergency dental treatment if you have an accident or sudden pain during your trip. | At least $300 per person should be covered, avoid deductibles over $30. Routine or cosmetic treatment and planned care are excluded. |
| 🪪 Personal liability abroad | Covers legal costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage property abroad. | Have at least $500,000 coverage per claim, deductible under $100. Injuries caused to family, intentional acts, or business activities are not covered. |
| 🚼 Child escort | Arranges and pays for minor children to be escorted home if parents are hospitalized. | Minimum $2,500 coverage is recommended. No deductible should apply. Non-emergency, voluntary returns or missing paperwork are excluded. |
| ⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Pays lawyer fees and sometimes bail if you face legal difficulties abroad. | Look for $3,000 for legal costs and $7,500 for bail. Incidents involving alcohol, criminal behaviour or insured consent are commonly excluded. |
Pre-existing conditions, pregnancy or change of mind are often excluded.
Being late, not providing proof, or traffic are commonly excluded.
Unattended, forgotten, or unsupervised items are usually excluded.
Delays under 4 hours, weather issues, or lack of proof are excluded.
Routine care, chronic diseases and elective treatment are often excluded.
Voluntary repatriation, refusal by the insurer and non-emergency repatriation are not covered.
Routine or cosmetic treatment and planned care are excluded.
Injuries caused to family, intentional acts, or business activities are not covered.
Non-emergency, voluntary returns or missing paperwork are excluded.
Incidents involving alcohol, criminal behaviour or insured consent are commonly excluded.
Reimbursement limits vary depending on the insurer and the plan selected (eco, standard, premium). They must always be checked in the general terms and conditions.
To find the family travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of family travel insurance
To activate your family travel insurance and ensure full coverage, several conditions must usually be met.
- Definition of family group: most policies require one or two adults and dependent children living at the same address.
- Policy purchase timing: you must buy the insurance before leaving Canada, ideally shortly after booking the trip.
- Residency status: all insured family members must be legal residents of Canada at the time of application.
- Trip duration limit: coverage applies only within the duration specified, such as 30 or 60 days per trip.
- No current travel: insurance is not valid if you are already abroad when purchasing the policy.
- Travel purpose compliance: coverage applies to leisure or tourist travel, not to trips for business, study, or permanent relocation.
- Destination restrictions: travel to countries under a Canadian government travel advisory is often excluded from coverage.
- Incident notification: you must notify the insurer as soon as possible in case of emergency, loss, or medical need.
Watch out!
A common mistake for Canadian families is assuming a child's stable pre-existing condition, like asthma, doesn't need declaring. If it flares up abroad, your claim could be denied. Always disclose the full medical history for every family member to ensure your coverage is valid when you need it.
Why take out family travel insurance?
When travelling, unexpected incidents can cause significant expenses that are often much higher abroad than in Canada.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to $1,000,000 to $10,000,000 |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Usually 100% up to plan maximum |
| Intestinal infection (consultation/treatment) |
| Usually up to policy limit |
| Emergency tooth extraction |
| Partial, often up to $2,000 |
| Repatriation for medical reasons to Canada |
| Often 100% if medically necessary |
- Europe: $400
- North America: $1,200
- Asia: $200
- Europe: $350
- North America: $1,000
- Asia: $150
- Europe: $250
- North America: $800
- Asia: $120
- Europe: $300
- North America: $900
- Asia: $180
- Europe: $10,000
- North America: $25,000
- Asia: $15,000
Coverage varies greatly depending on the plan chosen (standard or premium) and the insurer. Refer to the general conditions and always compare with tools like HelloSafe.
Beyond medical expenses, family travel insurance can also protect against other risks: trip cancellation or interruption, baggage loss or theft, personal liability, repatriation assistance and services such as child escort or emergency fund advance.
Good to know
Your provincial health plan won't cover a $20,000 U.S. hospital bill for appendicitis. Don't risk financial disaster on your family vacation. A dedicated policy ensures everyone is protected, with 24/7 assistance from providers like Chapka to handle emergencies, so you don't have to.
How to Choose the Right Family Travel Insurance
Each family travel insurance plan can differ in coverage limits, reimbursement levels and conditions. That is why it is important to know which criteria to check and to compare each policy against your family’s actual travel habits and needs.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💶 Reimbursement limits | Low limits mean potential out-of-pocket costs if a family member needs care abroad. | Choose plans with at least $1,000,000 medical coverage, especially when travelling to the USA. |
| 📉 Deductible | The deductible is the amount you pay yourself in case of a claim. | Prefer policies with low or no deductible to avoid surprises after a claim. |
| 📋 Policy conditions | Deadlines and eligibility rules may affect who is covered and when. | Read all policy conditions to understand who is insured and under which circumstances. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Families have specific coverage needs, such as child illness or parent-child repatriation. | Look for family-specific benefits, such as child escort and coverage for all dependants. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Some policies limit coverage for longer or multiple trips within a year. | If you travel often, consider an annual multi-trip plan for flexibility and long-term savings. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Coverage and claims process can differ if you go to the USA, Europe or Asia. | Check if your destination is excluded and ensure USA coverage is included for high-cost regions. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Credit cards or group policies may overlap with family travel insurance. | Compare your current coverage to avoid duplicating protection and paying more than necessary. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Risky or adventure sports may not be covered by default, especially for children. | Declare all planned activities to ensure sports and adventure coverage applies to your whole family. |
| 🔍 Offer comparison | Not every plan offers the same protections or value, even for the same price. | Use side-by-side comparison tools to clearly see differences in benefits and costs between insurers. |
Current Insurance Policies and family Travel Insurance
It is legitimate to wonder whether your existing insurances, such as a credit card or provincial health coverage, can truly replace dedicated family travel insurance, but unfortunately, these solutions are usually not sufficient.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Family travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (OHIP, RAMQ) | Never | Covers emergency hospital care in Canada, maximum reimbursement is $400 per day. No coverage for emergency abroad, repatriation, baggage loss, trip cancellation, or liability. | Travel insurance covers up to $10,000,000 for medical abroad, trip interruption, lost luggage, and family repatriation, far beyond public plans. |
| Private health insurance (Manulife, Sun Life) | Almost Never | Emergency medical covered only if with add-on, usually up to $1,000,000. No coverage for cancellation, baggage, family escort, trip delay, or child-specific benefits. | Travel insurance provides up to $10,000,000 coverage plus trip cancellation, family escort, and child benefits, not included by private plans. |
| Classic credit card (CIBC Classic Visa, RBC Classic Mastercard) | Never | Emergency medical for short trips only, up to $50,000 – $500,000 with strict conditions. Excludes children over a certain age, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, or liability. | Travel insurance covers all ages, pre-existing risks, and up to $10,000,000, adding family-specific guarantees and no travel payment requirement. |
| Premium credit card (Scotiabank Gold Amex, BMO World Elite Mastercard) | Limited coverage | Covers emergency medical with limits, up to $2,000,000 and some trip cancellation. Almost never covers baggage loss, family repatriation, personal liability, or child escort. | Travel insurance covers all named family members up to $10,000,000, including family repatriation, liability, lost bags, and trip interruption. |
No coverage for emergency abroad, repatriation, baggage loss, trip cancellation, or liability.
No coverage for cancellation, baggage, family escort, trip delay, or child-specific benefits.
Excludes children over a certain age, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, or liability.
Almost never covers baggage loss, family repatriation, personal liability, or child escort.
Expert advice
Your bank card and provincial health plan often exclude key situations like trip interruption for a family emergency. Always read the fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to a dedicated travel insurance policy tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is family travel insurance mandatory?
Family travel insurance is generally not mandatory for trips from Canada, but some countries—such as Cuba or Schengen-area states—require proof of adequate travel medical coverage for entry. Even where it is not required, it is strongly recommended: a sudden illness or accident abroad can lead to medical bills reaching tens of thousands of CAD. Having insurance ensures your family is protected against the unexpected and avoids financial hardship in emergencies.
When is it recommended to purchase family travel insurance?
It is best to purchase family travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, ideally the same day. Buying early means your family is immediately protected for covered events, including trip cancellation due to illness or other emergencies before your departure. Waiting may expose you to gaps, especially if someone becomes unwell before the policy is in effect. Advance purchase helps secure maximum benefits and peace of mind.
How do I purchase family travel insurance?
1/ Compare: Start by comparing offers using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform for families.
2/ Check guarantees and exclusions: Review conditions specific to families, especially age limits or coverage for all children.
3/ Purchase online: Select the appropriate plan and complete your application online.
4/ Receive the certificate: Once payment is made, you’ll receive a policy certificate via email to show as proof of coverage.
Can I purchase family travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can buy family travel insurance after booking your trip and even up to the day before departure. However, purchasing early is always better, as some benefits such as trip cancellation only apply if bought shortly after booking. For full protection, buy your insurance as soon as possible to avoid missing coverage due to unforeseen events arising before you purchase.
How do I make a claim under family travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer as soon as possible, ideally before incurring any large expenses. Be ready to provide documentation such as medical bills, proof of travel, and your policy number. Most insurers offer online claims and 24/7 assistance services for families. It is helpful to keep copies of all receipts and communications related to your claim for a smooth reimbursement process.
Are pre-existing conditions covered under family travel insurance?
In most cases, pre-existing conditions are only covered if they are stable and declared during the application process. Many policies exclude coverage for recent or unstable medical issues unless you purchase a policy option that explicitly covers them. If a family member has a health condition, disclose it to ensure you choose a plan that suits your needs and avoid possible claims denial.
Does family travel insurance cover adventure or sports activities?
Standard family travel insurance often covers common recreational activities such as hiking or swimming, but higher-risk activities (like skiing, scuba diving, or organized sports) may require an add-on or special policy. Before you travel, review your policy to confirm what is included or consider adding extra coverage for your planned activities, especially if your family is active or traveling during the winter.
Is family travel insurance mandatory?
Family travel insurance is generally not mandatory for trips from Canada, but some countries—such as Cuba or Schengen-area states—require proof of adequate travel medical coverage for entry. Even where it is not required, it is strongly recommended: a sudden illness or accident abroad can lead to medical bills reaching tens of thousands of CAD. Having insurance ensures your family is protected against the unexpected and avoids financial hardship in emergencies.
When is it recommended to purchase family travel insurance?
It is best to purchase family travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, ideally the same day. Buying early means your family is immediately protected for covered events, including trip cancellation due to illness or other emergencies before your departure. Waiting may expose you to gaps, especially if someone becomes unwell before the policy is in effect. Advance purchase helps secure maximum benefits and peace of mind.
How do I purchase family travel insurance?
1/ Compare: Start by comparing offers using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform for families.
2/ Check guarantees and exclusions: Review conditions specific to families, especially age limits or coverage for all children.
3/ Purchase online: Select the appropriate plan and complete your application online.
4/ Receive the certificate: Once payment is made, you’ll receive a policy certificate via email to show as proof of coverage.
Can I purchase family travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can buy family travel insurance after booking your trip and even up to the day before departure. However, purchasing early is always better, as some benefits such as trip cancellation only apply if bought shortly after booking. For full protection, buy your insurance as soon as possible to avoid missing coverage due to unforeseen events arising before you purchase.
How do I make a claim under family travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer as soon as possible, ideally before incurring any large expenses. Be ready to provide documentation such as medical bills, proof of travel, and your policy number. Most insurers offer online claims and 24/7 assistance services for families. It is helpful to keep copies of all receipts and communications related to your claim for a smooth reimbursement process.
Are pre-existing conditions covered under family travel insurance?
In most cases, pre-existing conditions are only covered if they are stable and declared during the application process. Many policies exclude coverage for recent or unstable medical issues unless you purchase a policy option that explicitly covers them. If a family member has a health condition, disclose it to ensure you choose a plan that suits your needs and avoid possible claims denial.
Does family travel insurance cover adventure or sports activities?
Standard family travel insurance often covers common recreational activities such as hiking or swimming, but higher-risk activities (like skiing, scuba diving, or organized sports) may require an add-on or special policy. Before you travel, review your policy to confirm what is included or consider adding extra coverage for your planned activities, especially if your family is active or traveling during the winter.
