- The Best international Travel Insurance Plans
- international Travel Insurance Explained
- The price of international travel insurance
- What does international travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of international travel insurance
- Why take out international travel insurance?
- How to Choose the Right International Travel Insurance
- International travel coverage under your current insurance policies
- FAQ
international travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: International travel insurance covers unexpected medical emergencies and travel mishaps that can happen outside of Canada.
2. Price: For a one-week trip to Europe, expect to pay between $45 and $85 CAD.
3. Coverage: It typically covers medical care and cancellations but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Provincial health plans (OHIP, RAMQ) and credit cards offer very limited coverage for travel abroad.
5. Tips: Always declare pre-existing conditions and verify coverage limits, especially for travel to the United States.
6. Other useful info: Consider an annual multi-trip plan if you travel internationally more than twice a 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 international travel insurance.
The Best international Travel Insurance Plans
Here is a selection of the best international travel insurance plans available for residents of Canada in 2025. These contracts are among the best due to their high coverage limits, low deductibles and simplified conditions, supporting travelers with robust and reliable protection.
Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
---|---|---|---|
HelloTravel Premium | 2.0M $ | 0 $ | • Worldwide recognition. • Instant online policy issuance. • Wide coverage for family members. • Early refund option for unused travel period. |
Cap Assistance 24/24 | 2.0M $ | 0 $ | • 24/7 medical assistance. • Medical teleconsultation included. • No waiting period. • Digital claims process. |
Tourist Card | 1.0M $ | 40 $ | • Emergency repatriation covered. • Fast claim approval. • Personal liability included. • Multilingual support. |
World Travel | 1.5M $ | 65 $ | • Covers lost luggage. • Extended coverage for adventure sports. • Child discounts. • Cancellation option for any reason. |
Globe Partner | 0.5M $ | 0 $ | • Affordable for students. • Easy online subscription. • Direct billing possible. • Travel delay benefit included. |
Globe Traveller | 1.0M $ | 0 $ | • Suitable for long trips. • Coverage for chronic conditions. • Stable premium at renewal. • Immediate emergency support. |
• Instant online policy issuance.
• Wide coverage for family members.
• Early refund option for unused travel period.
• Medical teleconsultation included.
• No waiting period.
• Digital claims process.
• Fast claim approval.
• Personal liability included.
• Multilingual support.
• Extended coverage for adventure sports.
• Child discounts.
• Cancellation option for any reason.
• Easy online subscription.
• Direct billing possible.
• Travel delay benefit included.
• Coverage for chronic conditions.
• Stable premium at renewal.
• Immediate emergency support.
The best international travel insurance for you may depend on your specific needs. To find the plan that suits you best and subscribe directly online, use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareinternational Travel Insurance Explained
International travel insurance is coverage that protects Canadian travellers from unexpected risks outside Canada. Its purpose is to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and other incidents during international trips.
This insurance is essential because Canadian health plans provide little or no protection abroad, and medical costs in other countries can be very high.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out international travel insurance is especially important if you live in Canada:
- when your provincial health plan offers minimal coverage outside Canada
- if you visit a country with high healthcare costs, like the USA
- if your trip involves expensive, non-refundable bookings for flights or hotels
- in case of any pre-existing medical condition, regardless of its severity
- when participating in adventure sports like skiing, scuba diving, or hiking
- for long-duration trips where provincial health coverage may become invalid
- if you might need emergency medical evacuation from remote areas or cruises
The price of international travel insurance
On average, international travel insurance costs between 3% and 6% of your total trip price.
Trip | Trip cost (CA$) | Indicative price per person (CA$) |
---|---|---|
5 days in Paris | 2,000 | 60 to 120 |
2 weeks tour in Thailand | 4,200 | 125 to 250 |
3 weeks road trip across the United States | 6,000 | 180 to 340 |
Mediterranean cruise (1 week) | 3,500 | 100 to 210 |
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 international travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer the trip, the higher the cost.
- destination: trips to countries with high medical costs, such as the United States, generally cost more.
- traveller’s age: older travellers may pay higher premiums.
- level of coverage: more comprehensive plans with higher limits cost more than basic ones.
- options chosen: coverage for high-risk activities or valuable items will increase the price.
What does international travel insurance cover?
International travel insurance is designed to support Canadian travellers on journeys outside of Canada. It acts as a safety net against the unpredictable, ensuring you are protected in case of emergencies abroad.
Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
---|---|---|
✈️ Trip cancellation | Refund of non-refundable trip costs if you cancel before departure for a covered reason. | A minimum cover of CA$2,500 is recommended. Avoid deductibles over CA$100. Pre-existing illness, visa refusal and change of mind are usually excluded. |
🚫 Missed departure | Covers extra transport expenses if you miss your flight due to events beyond your control. | Aim for CA$250 minimum. There should be no deductible. Late arrival and delays not proven in writing are excluded. |
🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation if your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged during international travel. | Choose at least CA$1,500 cover. Avoid plans with a deductible above CA$50. Unattended bags and valuables over set limits are not covered. |
🕒 Travel delay | Fixed compensation for delays exceeding a set period during your trip. | Look for CA$150+ after 6 hours. There should be no deductible. Delays under 6 hours or not documented are not covered. |
🏥 Emergency medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Covers urgent medical care if you fall ill or are injured while travelling. | At least CA$1,000,000 is advised, and the deductible should not exceed CA$100. Routine care, chronic illness and incidents after risky activities may be excluded. |
🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Arranges transport back to Canada if your health or safety requires it. | This should be unlimited and handled by the insurer. Voluntary or non-medically necessary returns are excluded. |
🦷 Emergency dental care | Pays for urgent dental treatment for accidents or pain during the trip. | Recommend at least CA$500. Avoid deductibles over CA$30. Routine or cosmetic care and pre-existing dental problems are excluded. |
🪪 Personal liability abroad | Covers injury or property damage you cause to others during your trip. | At least CA$1,000,000 is strongly recommended. Deductible should be below CA$100. Family disputes, damages to rented items or deliberate acts are excluded. |
🧳 Luggage delay | Pays for essentials if your baggage is delayed during the trip. | Opt for CA$200 for each 24h delay. Deductibles are rare. Delays on returning home and lack of proof are typically excluded. |
⚖️ Legal assistance abroad | Covers lawyer fees, bail or legal support during your trip after an incident. | Look for CA$5,000 for legal costs and CA$10,000 for bail. Criminal acts, alcohol use or pre-existing disputes are usually excluded. |
Pre-existing illness, visa refusal and change of mind are usually excluded.
Late arrival and delays not proven in writing are excluded.
Unattended bags and valuables over set limits are not covered.
Delays under 6 hours or not documented are not covered.
Routine care, chronic illness and incidents after risky activities may be excluded.
Voluntary or non-medically necessary returns are excluded.
Routine or cosmetic care and pre-existing dental problems are excluded.
Family disputes, damages to rented items or deliberate acts are excluded.
Delays on returning home and lack of proof are typically excluded.
Criminal acts, alcohol use or pre-existing disputes are usually 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 international travel insurance best suited to your journey, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of international travel insurance
To make sure your international travel insurance is active and valid, several essential conditions must be met.
- Timing of purchase: you must buy your insurance before leaving Canada, ideally at the time you book your trip.
- Canadian residency: you must be a resident of Canada when purchasing the policy and at departure.
- Trip duration compliance: insurance is valid only during dates and countries specified in the policy contract.
- No ongoing travel: you cannot already be abroad when taking out international travel insurance for your trip.
- Incident notification: you must contact the insurer as soon as possible after any covered incident or emergency.
- Supporting documentation: claims require official documents such as medical reports, police records or airline confirmations.
- Destination restrictions: travel to regions under a travel advisory from Global Affairs Canada may invalidate coverage.
- Deductible compliance: you must agree to pay the chosen deductible amount on each accepted claim, as noted in the contract.
Watch out!
A common misunderstanding for Canadians is that a stable pre-existing medical condition is automatically covered. Most policies require a “stability period” of 90-180 days with no changes in treatment or symptoms before your trip. Overlooking this detail can lead to a denied claim and huge bills.
Why take out international travel insurance?
Travelling internationally puts you at risk of high medical expenses, as costs abroad can far exceed Canadian coverage and quickly affect your financial well-being.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
---|---|---|
Foot sprain (X-ray and consultation) |
| Up to 100%, within plan limits |
Medical repatriation |
| Often covered 100% if medically necessary |
Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Frequently covered, subject to policy maximum |
Stitches after a fall |
| Usually up to 100%, excluding deductible |
Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection |
| Typically covered up to 100% |
- Europe: $400–600 CA
- North America: $800–1,200 CA
- Asia: $200–400 CA
- Europe: $50,000–100,000 CA
- North America: $25,000–75,000 CA
- Asia: $75,000–150,000 CA
- Europe: $8,000–12,000 CA
- North America: $15,000–25,000 CA
- Asia: $3,000–8,000 CA
- Europe: $300–500 CA
- North America: $600–1,000 CA
- Asia: $150–300 CA
- Europe: $250–400 CA
- North America: $500–800 CA
- Asia: $100–250 CA
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.
In addition to medical expenses, international travel insurance can include trip cancellation, lost or delayed baggage, personal liability, emergency evacuation, and 24/7 global assistance for better security abroad.
Good to know
Your provincial health plan offers minimal coverage abroad. An emergency could mean facing bills over $100,000 for medical evacuation. A policy from a provider like Chapka is a small price for complete financial protection, ensuring you travel with peace of mind.
How to Choose the Right International Travel Insurance
Not all international travel insurance policies are equal: reimbursement ceilings, deductibles and conditions can vary widely. That is why it is essential to compare offers carefully based on your needs before you travel from Canada.
Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
---|---|---|
💶 Reimbursement limits | A low limit may leave you unprotected for high medical costs abroad | Choose policies with at least $1 million coverage, $5 million if traveling to the USA or high-cost regions. |
📉 Deductible | The amount you pay out of pocket per claim | Prefer plans with zero or low deductibles for medical emergencies to reduce financial surprises. |
📋 Policy conditions | Benefits often require strict compliance with insurer rules | Read all policy terms. Check eligibility, claim processes, and what documentation will be needed abroad. |
👵 Traveller’s age | Senior travelers can face exclusions or higher costs | Review age limits carefully. Senior-focused policies offer better medical and pre-existing condition cover. |
👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Solo, couple or family plans affect coverage and price | Select a plan that matches your group type to benefit from coverage for dependents at a better price. |
📆 Trip duration | Many policies limit single trips to 30 or 60 days | Consider annual or long-stay plans if you expect to travel for extended periods or multiple times per year. |
🌍 Geographic area | Costs and exclusions depend on your destinations | Double-check that all countries visited, including layovers, are covered. Policy exclusions can vary widely. |
🛡️ Existing coverage | Some credit cards or employer plans offer partial protection | Verify your current protections. Supplement with international insurance for benefits no card or work plan covers. |
🧗 Planned activities | Adventure or risky activities may be excluded | Disclose all sports or “adventure” plans to ensure coverage. Seek policies with extra sport/activity options. |
International travel coverage under your current insurance policies
It is reasonable to wonder if your current insurances, such as credit card insurances or your provincial health plan, can provide you with international travel insurance, but unfortunately it is often not enough. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
Type of insurance | international travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
---|---|---|---|
Public health insurance (OHIP, RAMQ, AHCIP, MSP) | Never | Only limited emergency medical care abroad. Does not cover medical evacuation, trip cancellation, liability coverage, or lost baggage protection. | Travel insurance provides up to $10,000,000 for medical emergencies and covers medical evacuation, cancellation, and liability. |
Private health insurance (Manulife, Sun Life) | Almost Never | May cover medical emergencies up to $1,000,000. Coverage is often limited geographically and by duration. Does not cover trip cancellation, missed connections, adventure sports, or high-value baggage loss. | Travel insurance includes up to $10,000,000 and covers comprehensive situations like sports accidents, interruption, and baggage loss. |
Classic credit card (Scotiabank Value Visa, BMO CashBack Mastercard) | Almost Never | Emergency medical coverage up to $500,000–$1,000,000, usually restricted. May include basic lost baggage for low limits. Does not reliably cover trip cancellation, medical evacuation, personal liability, or pre-existing medical conditions. | Travel insurance provides robust coverage up to $10,000,000 and includes evacuation, cancellation, and personal liability worldwide. |
Premium credit card (RBC Avion Visa Infinite, TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite) | Limited coverage | Higher medical limits up to $2,000,000, some trip interruption, and limited cancellation or lost baggage benefits. Does not guarantee emergency evacuation, extended interruptions. | Travel insurance ensures up to $10,000,000 in care, with worldwide evacuation, comprehensive trip protection, and activity coverage. |
Does not cover medical evacuation, trip cancellation, liability coverage, or lost baggage protection.
Does not cover trip cancellation, missed connections, adventure sports, or high-value baggage loss.
Does not reliably cover trip cancellation, medical evacuation, personal liability, or pre-existing medical conditions.
Does not guarantee emergency evacuation, extended interruptions.
Expert advice
Your bank card or provincial health plan often excludes 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 international travel insurance mandatory?
International travel insurance is not mandatory for all destinations, but certain countries require proof of coverage for entry, such as Cuba or countries within the Schengen Area. Even where it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. For example, medical bills in the United States can quickly reach thousands of Canadian dollars, and having insurance could prevent significant financial hardship during a medical emergency abroad.
When is it recommended to purchase international travel insurance?
It is best to purchase your international travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. This ensures you are protected if an unexpected event forces you to cancel before departure, and guarantees your coverage starts the moment you leave Canada. Early purchase is particularly important to maximize pre-departure and trip interruption protection.
How do I purchase international travel insurance?
First, compare policies using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best coverage. Next, check guarantees and exclusions to ensure the policy meets your international travel needs and covers your destinations and planned activities. Then, purchase the insurance online. Once payment is complete, you will receive your digital certificate to present if requested.
Can I purchase international travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase international travel insurance any time after booking, but before departure is strongly advised. Buying sooner helps ensure coverage for trip cancellation, delays, or other pre-departure incidents. Waiting until the last minute may limit your eligibility for some benefits, such as trip interruption or baggage protection.
How do I make a claim under international travel insurance?
To file a claim, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible and provide necessary documentation, such as receipts, medical records, or proof of loss. Most Canadian insurers allow digital submission of claims for greater convenience. Keep copies of all supporting documents and follow up with your provider to track claim progress.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by international travel insurance?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions varies by insurer and policy. Some offer coverage only if the condition has been stable for a certain period, usually 90 to 180 days before travel. It is essential to declare all medical conditions when purchasing; failure to do so may void your coverage in the event of a claim.
Does international travel insurance cover adventure sports or extreme activities?
Many standard international travel insurance policies exclude coverage for certain adventure or extreme sports, like skiing, scuba diving, or mountain biking. However, many insurers offer add-ons or specialized plans covering these activities for an additional premium. Always specify planned activities when buying coverage to ensure you are fully protected.
Is international travel insurance mandatory?
International travel insurance is not mandatory for all destinations, but certain countries require proof of coverage for entry, such as Cuba or countries within the Schengen Area. Even where it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. For example, medical bills in the United States can quickly reach thousands of Canadian dollars, and having insurance could prevent significant financial hardship during a medical emergency abroad.
When is it recommended to purchase international travel insurance?
It is best to purchase your international travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. This ensures you are protected if an unexpected event forces you to cancel before departure, and guarantees your coverage starts the moment you leave Canada. Early purchase is particularly important to maximize pre-departure and trip interruption protection.
How do I purchase international travel insurance?
First, compare policies using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find the best coverage. Next, check guarantees and exclusions to ensure the policy meets your international travel needs and covers your destinations and planned activities. Then, purchase the insurance online. Once payment is complete, you will receive your digital certificate to present if requested.
Can I purchase international travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can purchase international travel insurance any time after booking, but before departure is strongly advised. Buying sooner helps ensure coverage for trip cancellation, delays, or other pre-departure incidents. Waiting until the last minute may limit your eligibility for some benefits, such as trip interruption or baggage protection.
How do I make a claim under international travel insurance?
To file a claim, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible and provide necessary documentation, such as receipts, medical records, or proof of loss. Most Canadian insurers allow digital submission of claims for greater convenience. Keep copies of all supporting documents and follow up with your provider to track claim progress.
Are pre-existing conditions covered by international travel insurance?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions varies by insurer and policy. Some offer coverage only if the condition has been stable for a certain period, usually 90 to 180 days before travel. It is essential to declare all medical conditions when purchasing; failure to do so may void your coverage in the event of a claim.
Does international travel insurance cover adventure sports or extreme activities?
Many standard international travel insurance policies exclude coverage for certain adventure or extreme sports, like skiing, scuba diving, or mountain biking. However, many insurers offer add-ons or specialized plans covering these activities for an additional premium. Always specify planned activities when buying coverage to ensure you are fully protected.