- The best short term travel insurance plans
- What exactly is short term travel insurance?
- The price of short term travel insurance
- What short term travel insurance covers
- The conditions of short term travel insurance
- Why take out short term travel insurance?
- How to choose the right short term travel insurance
- Does your current insurance policy cover short term travel insurance?
- FAQ
short term travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: It provides single-trip coverage for medical emergencies, cancellations, and other unexpected events that can occur while travelling.
2. Price: A one-week policy for Europe typically costs between $25 and $45 CAD, depending on your age and coverage.
3. Coverage: It typically covers emergency medical care and trip cancellation but excludes pre-existing conditions and some adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Provincial plans (e.g., OHIP, RAMQ) and credit cards offer minimal coverage, insufficient for most international medical emergencies.
5. Tips: Declare all pre-existing conditions and ensure medical limits are high enough, especially for travel to the USA.
6. Other useful info: Your provincial health plan's coverage abroad is extremely limited, making private top-up insurance essential for any trip.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 short term travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best short term travel insurance.
The best short term travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best short term travel insurance plans available for residents of Canada. These policies stand out for their high coverage limits, low deductibles and simple, accessible terms, providing strong protection for trips of limited duration.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 2.0M CA$ | 0 CA$ | • Covers all destinations including USA and Asia. • Trip cancellation included. • Includes sports and adventure cover. • Family options with shared limits. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.0M CA$ | 0 CA$ | • 24/7 medical hotline. • Quick hospital assistance. • Advance payment for care abroad. |
| Tourist Card | 0.5M CA$ | 40 CA$, 60 CA$ for USA/Canada | • Easy online claims. • Luggage protection available. • Includes legal assistance. |
| World Travel | 0.7M CA$ (USA/Canada), 0.3M CA$ (others) | 50 CA$ | • Quarantine and repatriation. • Available for all ages. • Assistance for lost passport. • Political evacuation included. |
| Globe Partner | 0.3M CA$ | 0 CA$ | • Fast enrolment process. • No minimum stay required. • Claim tracking online. |
| Globe Traveller | 0.5M CA$ | 0 CA$ | • Coverage for up to 12 months. • No age-related increase. • Multilingual support. |
• Trip cancellation included.
• Includes sports and adventure cover.
• Family options with shared limits.
• Quick hospital assistance.
• Advance payment for care abroad.
• Luggage protection available.
• Includes legal assistance.
• Available for all ages.
• Assistance for lost passport.
• Political evacuation included.
• No minimum stay required.
• Claim tracking online.
• No age-related increase.
• Multilingual support.
The best short term travel insurance may vary depending on your needs. 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 short term travel insurance?
Short term travel insurance is temporary coverage designed for trips lasting from a few days up to 6 months, often limited to 90 days. It offers financial protection for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, interruptions, and lost baggage during a single, defined trip.
This insurance is essential for Canadians traveling outside the country where provincial health plans offer minimal or no coverage abroad.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out short term travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in Canada:
- When travelling outside Canada, where provincial health plans provide little coverage.
- For any trip to the United States due to its high medical costs.
- If your trip has significant non-refundable costs like flights or accommodations.
- When you have a pre-existing medical condition, even if it is stable.
- If your credit card insurance has low limits or short duration caps.
- For participating in adventure sports not covered by standard insurance policies.
- For trips within Canada but outside your province of residence.
The price of short term travel insurance
On average, short term travel insurance costs between 2% and 6% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 3 days in Montreal | 600 CA$ | 12 CA$ to 30 CA$ |
| 7 days in New York | 1,500 CA$ | 30 CA$ to 80 CA$ |
| 2 weeks in France | 3,000 CA$ | 60 CA$ to 180 CA$ |
| 4 weeks in Thailand | 4,500 CA$ | 90 CA$ to 250 CA$ |
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 short term travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: longer trips increase the overall insurance cost.
- destination: travelling to countries with higher medical care costs, like the United States, usually raises the price.
- traveller’s age: rates are generally higher for older travellers.
- level of coverage: enhanced coverage, lower deductibles, or additional benefits will increase cost.
- pre-existing medical conditions or activities: high-risk activities or declared health issues may also increase premiums.
What short term travel insurance covers
Short term travel insurance protects you for a specific trip, usually lasting from a few days up to a few months.
It is suitable for Canadians who need coverage for unexpected events during a single holiday, business trip, or visit abroad.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🛑 Trip cancellation | Key guarantee. Refund of pre-paid trip costs if you must cancel before departure. | We recommend a minimum cover of 1,500 CA$ and deductible below 50 CA$. Illness before departure, visa refusal or voluntary cancellation are commonly excluded. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Covers transport if you miss your flight due to events beyond your control. | Choose at least 200 CA$ without a deductible. Not valid if late without proof or if missed connection is not confirmed by the carrier. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation if your luggage is lost, stolen, or damaged during the trip. | Look for at least 1,000 CA$ coverage. Deductible should be under 30 CA$. Items left unattended or expensive electronics are often excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Compensation for long flight or train delays during your trip. | At least 100 CA$ per 4-hour delay is advised. Deductibles are not usual. Delays under 4 hours and claims without official proof are excluded. |
| 🏥 Medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Covers necessary urgent medical treatment if you get sick or injured. | Minimum 1M CA$ coverage is recommended. Deductible should not exceed 50 CA$. Chronic illnesses and regular check-ups are not covered. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Pays for return to Canada if needed for health reasons. | This should be unlimited and organized by the insurer. Refusal to cooperate with insurer decisions is often excluded. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers urgent dental treatment required during your trip. | At least 250 CA$ is recommended. Keep deductible under 30 CA$. Cosmetic treatment and unplanned previous dental issues are not covered. |
| 🪪 Personal liability | Covers costs if you cause injury or damage to others during your trip. | At least 1M CA$ coverage is advised. Deductible should be under 100 CA$. Incidents involving family, or rented property usually excluded. |
| 🧳 Luggage delay | Provides funds to buy essentials if your bag arrives late. | Minimum 150 CA$ after 24 hours of delay, preferably no deductible. Lost baggage and unverified delays are not covered. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Key guarantee. Refund for unused travel services if you return earlier due to a covered reason. | Minimum 1,000 CA$ is advised with low deductible. Voluntary returns, pre-existing events, or minor issues are generally excluded. |
Illness before departure, visa refusal or voluntary cancellation are commonly excluded.
Not valid if late without proof or if missed connection is not confirmed by the carrier.
Items left unattended or expensive electronics are often excluded.
Delays under 4 hours and claims without official proof are excluded.
Chronic illnesses and regular check-ups are not covered.
Refusal to cooperate with insurer decisions is often excluded.
Cosmetic treatment and unplanned previous dental issues are not covered.
Incidents involving family, or rented property usually excluded.
Lost baggage and unverified delays are not covered.
Voluntary returns, pre-existing events, or minor issues are generally 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 short term travel insurance best suited to your profile and your trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of short term travel insurance
Short term travel insurance is only valid if specific conditions are met. These are some of the main requirements for Canadian travelers:
- Residency status: you must be a resident or citizen of Canada at the time of purchasing the insurance.
- Policy purchase timing: you must buy the insurance before departing from Canada, not after your trip begins.
- Trip duration compliance: your trip must not exceed the maximum coverage period stated in your policy, usually up to 180 days.
- Physical presence: you must be physically present in Canada when you purchase the policy.
- Incident notification: you must notify the insurer as soon as possible in the event of an emergency or claim.
- Documentation required: you are required to submit official proof, such as medical reports or receipts, when making a claim.
- Destination exclusions: your coverage may not apply if you travel to a region under an “avoid all travel” advisory from the Government of Canada.
- Eligibility criteria: age, health, and certain trip purposes (like business or adventure sports) may limit eligibility or available coverage.
Watch out!
A common misunderstanding for Canadians concerns pre-existing medical conditions. Many assume they're covered if they feel well. However, most policies require conditions to be 'stable' for a set period before travel. An undeclared or unstable condition can void your entire policy, leaving you with the bill.
Why take out short term travel insurance?
During a trip, many risks are possible and even basic medical care can lead to significant expenses abroad.
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%, depending on policy limit |
| Medical repatriation |
| Usually 100% if medically necessary |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Up to 100%, depending on policy limit |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Partial or up to 100%, depending on plan |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection |
| Up to 100%, often after deductible |
- Europe: $400 to $600 CA
- North America: $800 to $1,200 CA
- Asia: $200 to $400 CA
- Europe: $5,000 to $15,000 CA
- North America: $15,000 to $35,000 CA
- Asia: $8,000 to $20,000 CA
- Europe: $8,000 to $12,000 CA
- North America: $15,000 to $25,000 CA
- Asia: $3,000 to $6,000 CA
- Europe: $300 to $500 CA
- North America: $600 to $1,000 CA
- Asia: $150 to $300 CA
- Europe: $200 to $400 CA
- North America: $500 to $800 CA
- Asia: $100 to $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, short term travel insurance can include other useful guarantees such as emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, lost baggage, civil liability, and 24/7 assistance.
Good to know
Your provincial plan offers minimal coverage abroad. A simple accident can result in a $25,000 bill. Protect your finances and your trip with a plan from a provider like Chapka, covering everything from medical emergencies to lost baggage, so you can travel without worry.
How to choose the right short term travel insurance
Not all short term travel insurance policies are equal: reimbursement limits, deductibles and the scope of coverage can vary significantly.
That is why it is essential to know which criteria to compare, depending on your needs as a traveler from Canada.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💵 Reimbursement limits | Low limits may leave you responsible for large bills if something serious happens. | Choose at least $100,000 for the US, $250,000 recommended for international trips. |
| 📉 Deductible | This is your amount to pay out of pocket before reimbursement applies. | Select a plan with a manageable deductible, ideally under $250, to lower out-of-pocket expenses. |
| 📜 Policy conditions | Time limits, exclusions and requirements impact eligibility and claims. | Read all policy terms carefully, especially pre-existing condition clauses and claim deadlines. |
| 👨🦳 Traveller’s age | Premiums and exclusions often vary for seniors above 60 or 65. | Check for age-related surcharges or exclusions if you turn 60 or 65 before or during your trip. |
| 👨👩👧 Traveller profile | Needs differ for solo, group, family, or business travelers. | Look for family plans, coverage for multiple travelers, or specialized business trip options as needed. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Most short term plans cap coverage at 90 days per trip. | Make sure your plan covers your full trip; opt for an extension if traveling for more than 90 days. |
| 🌍 Geographic area | Risks, healthcare costs and policy price vary by destination. | Make sure US or high-risk country coverage is included if you are traveling to those regions. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Many bank cards or employer benefits offer some travel coverage, but with limitations. | Check existing benefits first and buy extra insurance only for uncovered or underinsured risks. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Exclusions may apply to adventure or high-risk activities. | Disclose sports, adventure or risky activities; buy an appropriate add-on if needed for full coverage. |
Does your current insurance policy cover short term travel insurance?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances such as credit card or provincial health coverage can provide you with short term travel insurance, but unfortunately this is often not enough. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Short term travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) | Never | Covers emergency services abroad up to $400/day hospital, $50/visit physician. Does not cover repatriation, trip cancellation, lost baggage, or flight delays. | Travel insurance typically covers up to $5,000,000 for emergencies plus cancellation, lost baggage and evacuation not provided by OHIP. |
| Private health insurance (Manulife, Sun Life) | Almost Never | Covers some out-of-country health services, usually up to $100,000 - $1,000,000. Does not typically cover trip cancellation, baggage, or flight delays. | Travel insurance can cover $1,000,000 - $5,000,000 and includes baggage, trip cancellation and flight delay not provided by group health plans. |
| Classic credit card (CIBC Classic Visa, Scotiabank Value Visa) | Never | May pay for hospital expenses ONLY if the card is used for the trip, up to $50,000. No coverage for trip interruption, repatriation, or personal liability abroad. | Travel insurance reimburses up to $5,000,000 and includes repatriation, personal liability, and trip interruption not covered by basic cards. |
| Premium credit card (RBC Avion Visa Infinite, BMO World Elite Mastercard) | Limited Coverage | Up to $200,000 medical, $1,000 - $2,500 baggage, or trip cancellation. Does not cover long trips, risky activities, or pre-existing conditions. | Travel insurance covers $1,000,000+ for medical and covers pre-existing conditions, adventure sports, and longer travel durations. |
Does not cover repatriation, trip cancellation, lost baggage, or flight delays.
Does not typically cover trip cancellation, baggage, or flight delays.
No coverage for trip interruption, repatriation, or personal liability abroad.
Does not cover long trips, risky activities, or pre-existing conditions.
Expert advice
Bank card and provincial health plans often exclude key situations like trip interruption for a relative's illness. Read your policy's fine print carefully to avoid surprises abroad. For peace of mind, it's always safer to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Is short term travel insurance mandatory?
Short term travel insurance is required for entry to some countries, such as Cuba and Schengen states, where proof of coverage is mandatory. While not required for most destinations, it is highly recommended for Canadians. For example, a short business trip to the United States without insurance can result in significant expenses if an emergency occurs.
When is it recommended to purchase short term travel insurance?
The best time to buy short term travel insurance is immediately after booking your trip. This ensures eligibility for pre-departure benefits like trip cancellation, and secures coverage before any unexpected issues arise. Early purchase provides the greatest financial protection against unforeseen events.
How do I purchase short term travel insurance?
First, compare available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform. Carefully review all guarantees and exclusions specific to short term coverage, such as medical limits and activity exclusions. Complete the purchase online, then receive your insurance certificate by email, confirming your coverage.
Can I purchase short term travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can purchase short term travel insurance after you have booked your trip, as long as it is before your scheduled departure. However, some benefits, like trip cancellation coverage, may not apply if you have already paid in full or are within days of departure.
How do I make a claim on my short term travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer directly, either by phone or online, and submit the required forms and supporting documents. Be sure to keep all receipts, medical notes, and proof of losses. Many Canadian insurers provide digital platforms to streamline the claims process and communication.
Does short term travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions varies by insurer and policy. Most require the condition to be stable for a specific period, typically 90 to 180 days, before departure. Always declare your health status and review policy terms to confirm eligibility for coverage.
Does short term travel insurance include sports or adventure activities?
Standard short term travel insurance usually excludes risky sports and adventure activities such as skiing, scuba diving, or mountaineering. If you plan to participate in these, look for a plan that offers optional add-on coverage or specifically includes your chosen activities in its protection.
Is short term travel insurance mandatory?
Short term travel insurance is required for entry to some countries, such as Cuba and Schengen states, where proof of coverage is mandatory. While not required for most destinations, it is highly recommended for Canadians. For example, a short business trip to the United States without insurance can result in significant expenses if an emergency occurs.
When is it recommended to purchase short term travel insurance?
The best time to buy short term travel insurance is immediately after booking your trip. This ensures eligibility for pre-departure benefits like trip cancellation, and secures coverage before any unexpected issues arise. Early purchase provides the greatest financial protection against unforeseen events.
How do I purchase short term travel insurance?
First, compare available plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform. Carefully review all guarantees and exclusions specific to short term coverage, such as medical limits and activity exclusions. Complete the purchase online, then receive your insurance certificate by email, confirming your coverage.
Can I purchase short term travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can purchase short term travel insurance after you have booked your trip, as long as it is before your scheduled departure. However, some benefits, like trip cancellation coverage, may not apply if you have already paid in full or are within days of departure.
How do I make a claim on my short term travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer directly, either by phone or online, and submit the required forms and supporting documents. Be sure to keep all receipts, medical notes, and proof of losses. Many Canadian insurers provide digital platforms to streamline the claims process and communication.
Does short term travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?
Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions varies by insurer and policy. Most require the condition to be stable for a specific period, typically 90 to 180 days, before departure. Always declare your health status and review policy terms to confirm eligibility for coverage.
Does short term travel insurance include sports or adventure activities?
Standard short term travel insurance usually excludes risky sports and adventure activities such as skiing, scuba diving, or mountaineering. If you plan to participate in these, look for a plan that offers optional add-on coverage or specifically includes your chosen activities in its protection.
