- The best single trip travel insurance plans
- What exactly is single trip travel insurance?
- The price of single trip travel insurance
- What does single trip travel insurance cover?
- The conditions of single trip travel insurance
- Why take out single trip travel insurance?
- How to choose the right single trip travel insurance
- Is single trip travel insurance covered by my current policies?
- FAQ
Single Trip Travel Insurance: Key Takeaways
1. Definition: Single trip insurance covers one specific journey from departure until your return to Canada for unforeseen events.
2. Price: For a one-week trip to Europe, expect to pay between $60 and $100 CAD for standard coverage.
3. Coverage: It covers medical emergencies and trip cancellation but often excludes pre-existing conditions and high-risk adventure sports.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Provincial plans (OHIP, MSP) and credit cards provide very limited coverage abroad, with low medical caps.
5. Tips: Always declare pre-existing conditions and verify that medical coverage limits are sufficient for your destination.
6. Other useful info: To get trip cancellation benefits, you must often buy your policy shortly after booking your trip.
Why trust HelloSafe ?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travellers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in Canada, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best single trip travel insurance.
The best single trip travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best single trip travel insurance plans available in Canada for 2025. These policies are recognised for their high medical coverage limits, low deductibles and simplified conditions that ensure reliable protection for your travels.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 5.0M $ CAD | 0 $ CAD | • Full cover for medical emergencies. • Includes telemedicine consultations. • Easy mobile enrolment and claims. • No advanced payment for hospital stays. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 2.0M $ CAD | 0 $ CAD | • 24/7 global support. • Fast digital claims system. • Covers urgent dental care. • Free assistance app. |
| Tourist Card | 2.0M $ CAD | 100 $ CAD | • Coverage worldwide. • Quick refund process. • Support for COVID-19. • No age-based rate increases. |
| World Travel | 1.0M $ CAD | 50 $ CAD | • Includes adventure sports. • Direct payment to hospitals. • Covers lost luggage. • Telemedicine services. |
| Globe Partner | 2.0M $ CAD | 0 $ CAD | • Suitable for short trips. • No medical questionnaire under age 65. • Quick issue of certificate. |
| Globe Traveller | 2.0M $ CAD | 0 $ CAD | • Valid for travel up to 12 months. • Fixed premium after age 60. • Assistance available in several languages. |
• Includes telemedicine consultations.
• Easy mobile enrolment and claims.
• No advanced payment for hospital stays.
• Fast digital claims system.
• Covers urgent dental care.
• Free assistance app.
• Quick refund process.
• Support for COVID-19.
• No age-based rate increases.
• Direct payment to hospitals.
• Covers lost luggage.
• Telemedicine services.
• No medical questionnaire under age 65.
• Quick issue of certificate.
• Fixed premium after age 60.
• Assistance available in several languages.
The best single trip travel insurance will depend on your profile and travel needs. Use HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison tool to select and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareWhat exactly is single trip travel insurance?
Single trip travel insurance is a policy that covers one specific journey, from departure to return, for Canadian travellers.
It provides protection against unexpected events during a single trip, such as emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost baggage, or travel delays.
Coverage is active only for the duration of this journey, from when you leave Canada until you return.
Single trip travel insurance is often more cost-effective for those who travel infrequently.
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out single trip travel insurance is especially recommended if you live in Canada:
- When your provincial plan offers minimal coverage outside Canada.
- For travel to countries with high healthcare costs, like the USA.
- If your trip involves significant non-refundable pre-paid expenses.
- When you have any pre-existing medical conditions to declare.
- If you travel infrequently, taking one or two trips per year.
- To supplement limited coverage provided by your credit card insurance.
- For trips including higher-risk activities like skiing or scuba diving.
The price of single trip travel insurance
On average, single trip travel insurance costs between 3% and 6% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 5 days in New York | 1,800 CA$ | 55 to 110 CA$ |
| 2 weeks in France and Italy | 4,100 CA$ | 120 to 210 CA$ |
| 10 days in Japan | 3,500 CA$ | 105 to 200 CA$ |
| 1 month in Australia | 6,200 CA$ | 180 to 360 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 single trip travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: the longer the journey, the higher the premium.
- destination: trips to countries with high healthcare costs usually cost more.
- traveller’s age: premiums rise with age, especially for seniors.
- level of coverage: enhanced medical, cancellation, or baggage coverage increases the price.
- chosen options: coverage for sports, valuables, or cancellation for any reason will affect the cost.
What does single trip travel insurance cover?
Single trip travel insurance is a policy that covers you for one specific journey from your departure until you return home. It is an ideal choice for Canadians taking a single vacation or business trip outside the country.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refunds prepaid non-refundable trip costs if cancelled for a covered reason. | A minimum reimbursement of CA$2,000 is essential. Do not accept deductibles above CA$50. Cancellations for change of mind, visa refusal or work reasons are excluded. |
| 🚫 Missed departure | Pays extra transport if you miss your flight due to events beyond your control. | At least CA$300 coverage is recommended. There should be no deductible. Being late or missing proof are not covered. |
| 🎒 Baggage loss or theft | Compensation if luggage is lost, stolen or damaged during your journey. | The cover should be CA$1,500 minimum. Avoid plans with deductibles over CA$30. Unattended luggage and valuables above set limits are excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Fixed sum paid if your flight or train is delayed for several hours. | Ensure at least CA$100 after four hours, with no deductible. Delays under four hours or without documentation are not covered. |
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent medical care due to illness or accident abroad. | The minimum should be CA$1M, with a deductible not exceeding CA$100. Routine care and pre-existing conditions are typically excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Key guarantee. Pays for transport to a hospital or back to Canada in an emergency. | Unlimited coverage is preferred, arranged by the insurer. Non-medical evacuations and refusal by the traveller are not covered. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers urgent dental treatment during your trip. | Select at least CA$500 cover and do not exceed a CA$30 deductible. Planned procedures, orthodontics, and cosmetic care are excluded. |
| 🪪 Personal liability | Covers injury or damage you cause to others during your trip. | A limit of CA$500,000 or more is wise, with no more than CA$100 deductible. Damage to family and rented property is excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refund for unused travel services if you must cut your trip short. | Minimum cover: CA$1,000, avoid high deductibles. Voluntary returns or trivial reasons are not covered. |
| 🧍♂️ Personal accident | Lump sum if you die or suffer permanent disability during your trip. | Start at CA$10,000 and avoid any deductible. High-risk sports, intoxication and intentional acts are excluded. |
Cancellations for change of mind, visa refusal or work reasons are excluded.
Being late or missing proof are not covered.
Unattended luggage and valuables above set limits are excluded.
Delays under four hours or without documentation are not covered.
Routine care and pre-existing conditions are typically excluded.
Non-medical evacuations and refusal by the traveller are not covered.
Planned procedures, orthodontics, and cosmetic care are excluded.
Damage to family and rented property is excluded.
Voluntary returns or trivial reasons are not covered.
High-risk sports, intoxication and intentional acts are 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 single trip travel insurance best suited to your trip and your needs, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The conditions of single trip travel insurance
To benefit from your single trip travel insurance and ensure your coverage applies, several main conditions must be met.
- Purchase before departure: you must buy the policy before leaving Canada.
- Canadian residency: you must be a resident of Canada when you purchase the insurance.
- Trip duration limit: you must respect the maximum duration covered, usually from a few days up to 180 days.
- No ongoing travel: you must not already be abroad when buying the insurance.
- Eligible age limit: your age must fall within the insurer’s allowed range, often with a higher premium above age 65.
- Destination eligibility: your destination must not be under a government travel advisory or warning at the time of purchase.
- Accurate declarations: you must truthfully declare any pre-existing medical conditions and travel plans.
- Prompt notification: you must notify the insurer as soon as possible in case of medical emergency or claim.
Watch out!
A common myth is that you can buy single trip insurance anytime before you leave. For trip cancellation coverage to be valid, many insurers require you to purchase the policy within a set period, like 7-21 days, after making your first trip payment. Don't delay!
Why take out single trip travel insurance?
When traveling outside Canada, even minor accidents or common illnesses can lead to significant expenses, as healthcare is often much more expensive 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 plan chosen |
| Medical repatriation |
| Up to policy limit, often 100%, if medically necessary |
| Appendicitis surgery and hospitalization |
| Typically up to 100% within plan maximums |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Commonly covered up to 100% by most plans |
| Consultation and treatment for intestinal infection |
| Usually 100%, excluding the deductible |
- Europe: $800 CA
- North America: $1,200 CA
- Asia: $400 CA
- Europe: $50,000 CA
- North America: $75,000 CA
- Asia: $40,000 CA
- Europe: $15,000 CA
- North America: $25,000 CA
- Asia: $8,000 CA
- Europe: $600 CA
- North America: $900 CA
- Asia: $300 CA
- Europe: $400 CA
- North America: $600 CA
- Asia: $200 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, single trip travel insurance can protect you with other useful guarantees: trip cancellation, lost baggage, civil liability, emergency medical transport, and 24/7 assistance services.
Good to know
Your provincial plan won't cover you fully abroad. An unexpected accident could lead to thousands in medical bills. A simple policy, like one from Chapka, ensures you're protected for a fraction of the cost, giving you peace of mind on your single trip.
How to choose the right single trip travel insurance
Not all single trip travel insurance plans are the same: coverage limits, deductibles, and eligibility requirements can differ a lot. It is important to compare specific criteria to ensure your insurance fits your trip and personal needs.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💸 Reimbursement limit | A lower limit may leave you with large unpaid medical bills abroad. | Opt for a reimbursement limit of at least $1 million for extra-regional trips. Higher caps are wise for USA trips. |
| 💲 Deductible | You pay this amount before insurance kicks in for each claim. | Favour policies with low or zero deductibles for medical and hospital expenses where possible. |
| 📄 Policy conditions | Some benefits apply only if the policy is purchased on time. | Buy as soon as your trip is booked to secure cancellation and interruption coverage from day one. |
| 👵 Traveller’s age | Age impacts premium and sometimes eligibility, especially over 65. | Review the age limits and possible surcharges. Some policies are designed specifically for seniors. |
| 🧑🤝🧑 Traveller profile | Singles, families, and seniors have different needs and risk factors. | Select a plan matching your traveller type for relevant benefits, like child illness coverage or family repatriation. |
| 📆 Trip duration | Longer trips often require higher cover and have stricter conditions. | Check the maximum covered duration for your single trip and buy an extension if staying abroad longer. |
| 🌎 Geographic area | Some policies restrict or surcharge for risky or expensive regions. | Ensure your destination is covered, especially if travelling to the USA or war-risk territories. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Other insurances like credit cards may duplicate some benefits or lack key covers. | Itemise what your credit card or employer coverage includes to avoid unnecessary overlapping or gaps. |
| 🧗 Planned activities | Adventure sports and certain activities can be excluded unless declared. | If planning sports, check the wording for inclusions and optionally add relevant activity extensions. |
Is single trip travel insurance covered by my current policies?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances like credit card insurances or public health system, can offer you a single trip travel insurance, but that 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 | Single trip travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (OHIP, MSP) | Never | Emergency medical, part of doctor or hospital fees abroad, up to $400/day. Does not cover medical evacuation, trip interruption, or lost baggage. | Travel insurance can reimburse up to $10,000,000 CAD including evacuation, baggage, trip cancellation. |
| Private health insurance (Manulife, Sun Life) | Almost Never | Emergency medical, some dental expenses abroad, up to $2,000,000 for medical. Does not cover trip cancellation, interruption, or lost luggage. | Travel insurance provides up to $10,000,000 CAD with cancellation and disruption guarantees included. |
| Classic credit card (TD Classic, RBC Classic) | Almost Never | Limited emergency medical, up to $50,000–$100,000, travel accident up to $100,000. No comprehensive cancellation or baggage coverage, low medical limits. | Travel insurance covers up to $10,000,000 CAD, including substantial baggage and disruption cover. |
| Premium credit card (RBC Avion, BMO World Elite) | Limited Coverage | Emergency medical up to $1,000,000–$2,000,000, partial baggage, trip delay up to $2,500. No coverage for evacuation flights, high-risk sports, full cancellation. | Travel insurance often offers up to $10,000,000 CAD, including evacuation and all major travel risks. |
Does not cover medical evacuation, trip interruption, or lost baggage.
Does not cover trip cancellation, interruption, or lost luggage.
No comprehensive cancellation or baggage coverage, low medical limits.
No coverage for evacuation flights, high-risk sports, full cancellation.
Expert advice
Your bank card or provincial health plan may not cover trip interruption for a relative's illness or death. Always read the fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe to dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Is single trip travel insurance mandatory?
Single trip travel insurance is mandatory for entry into certain countries, such as those in the Schengen Area or for specific visa applications. While it is not required for many popular destinations like the United States or Mexico, it is strongly recommended. For example, even a short vacation in the US can lead to large unexpected medical expenses without adequate insurance coverage.
When is it recommended to purchase single trip travel insurance?
It is advisable to purchase your single trip travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, ideally within 7 to 21 days of making your first payment. This ensures coverage for unforeseen events or cancellations that may arise before your departure and helps secure financial protection from the earliest possible date.
How do I purchase single trip travel insurance?
First, compare plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find offers tailored to your trip. Next, check guarantees and exclusions to be sure conditions fit single trip travel. Then, purchase your policy online through a trusted insurer, and finally, receive your insurance certificate by email for submission to authorities if needed.
Can I purchase single trip travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can usually purchase single trip travel insurance after you book your trip. However, buying it immediately after booking is preferable, as it provides access to cancellation coverage and protection for any event that may affect your travel plans shortly after your initial payment.
How do I make a claim on my single trip travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s claims department as soon as possible, either online, by phone, or via their app. Be prepared to provide supporting documents, such as your policy certificate, receipts, medical reports, or proof of loss, to help process your claim quickly.
What should I consider if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, inform the insurer and review whether the condition is covered or excluded. Some policies may cover pre-existing conditions if you meet certain requirements or pay an additional premium. Always double-check coverage details to avoid unpleasant surprises while abroad.
Can I extend my single trip travel insurance if my trip is prolonged?
Many insurers allow you to extend your single trip travel insurance before your original policy expires, provided you have not made a claim or experienced health changes. It is important to request an extension as soon as you know your plans have changed, and to confirm that continued coverage will apply.
Is single trip travel insurance mandatory?
Single trip travel insurance is mandatory for entry into certain countries, such as those in the Schengen Area or for specific visa applications. While it is not required for many popular destinations like the United States or Mexico, it is strongly recommended. For example, even a short vacation in the US can lead to large unexpected medical expenses without adequate insurance coverage.
When is it recommended to purchase single trip travel insurance?
It is advisable to purchase your single trip travel insurance as soon as you book your trip, ideally within 7 to 21 days of making your first payment. This ensures coverage for unforeseen events or cancellations that may arise before your departure and helps secure financial protection from the earliest possible date.
How do I purchase single trip travel insurance?
First, compare plans using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to find offers tailored to your trip. Next, check guarantees and exclusions to be sure conditions fit single trip travel. Then, purchase your policy online through a trusted insurer, and finally, receive your insurance certificate by email for submission to authorities if needed.
Can I purchase single trip travel insurance after booking?
Yes, you can usually purchase single trip travel insurance after you book your trip. However, buying it immediately after booking is preferable, as it provides access to cancellation coverage and protection for any event that may affect your travel plans shortly after your initial payment.
How do I make a claim on my single trip travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s claims department as soon as possible, either online, by phone, or via their app. Be prepared to provide supporting documents, such as your policy certificate, receipts, medical reports, or proof of loss, to help process your claim quickly.
What should I consider if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, inform the insurer and review whether the condition is covered or excluded. Some policies may cover pre-existing conditions if you meet certain requirements or pay an additional premium. Always double-check coverage details to avoid unpleasant surprises while abroad.
Can I extend my single trip travel insurance if my trip is prolonged?
Many insurers allow you to extend your single trip travel insurance before your original policy expires, provided you have not made a claim or experienced health changes. It is important to request an extension as soon as you know your plans have changed, and to confirm that continued coverage will apply.
