- The best snowbirds travel insurance plans
- What exactly is snowbirds travel insurance?
- The Price of snowbirds Travel Insurance
- What does snowbirds travel insurance cover?
- The Conditions of snowbirds Travel Insurance
- Why take out snowbirds travel insurance?
- How to Choose the Right Snowbirds Travel Insurance
- Does My Current Insurance Policy Cover snowbirds Travel Insurance?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
snowbirds travel insurance: key takeaways
1. Definition: Snowbird insurance is for Canadians taking long winter trips, mainly covering emergency medical costs abroad.
2. Price: A three-month policy for the US can cost from $900 to over $2,200 CAD.
3. Coverage: It covers high medical costs and repatriation but often excludes unstable pre-existing conditions and routine care.
4. Bank cards and health insurances: Provincial plans (OHIP, RAMQ) and credit cards offer very limited coverage for long-term stays.
5. Tips: Disclose all medical conditions and verify the "stability period" clause required by your chosen insurer.
6. Other useful info: Top-up insurance can extend coverage from an existing group or credit card plan for 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 here everything you need to know to choose the best snowbirds travel insurance.
The best snowbirds travel insurance plans
Here is a selection of the best snowbirds travel insurance plans available for Canadian residents in 2025. These contracts stand out thanks to their high medical reimbursement limits, low deductibles and streamlined conditions, ensuring wide protection for extended trips.
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement | Deductible | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $5,000,000 | $0 | • Covers winter stays over 6 months. • Approved for pre-existing conditions. • Direct billing at many hospitals. • 24/7 multilingual emergency support. |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $5,000,000 | $0 | • Long trip coverage. • Rapid reimbursement process. • Trip interruption included. • Reliable medical repatriation. |
| Tourist Card | $5,000,000 | $250 | • Specific USA and Mexico coverage. • Covers pre-existing conditions (stable). • Flexible cancellation options. • No age limit for snowbirds. |
| World Travel | $5,000,000 | $250 | • High medical limits in the USA. • Includes critical illness transport. • Covers loss of medication. • Compatible with provincial health plans. |
| Globe Partner | $1,000,000 | $0 | • Economy option for healthy seniors. • Simple online signup. • Worldwide coverage. • Emergency dental included. |
| Globe Traveller | $1,000,000 | $0 | • Suits trips up to 12 months. • Guarantees policy extension. • Accepted by US clinics. • Assistance in English and French. |
• Approved for pre-existing conditions.
• Direct billing at many hospitals.
• 24/7 multilingual emergency support.
• Rapid reimbursement process.
• Trip interruption included.
• Reliable medical repatriation.
• Covers pre-existing conditions (stable).
• Flexible cancellation options.
• No age limit for snowbirds.
• Includes critical illness transport.
• Covers loss of medication.
• Compatible with provincial health plans.
• Simple online signup.
• Worldwide coverage.
• Emergency dental included.
• Guarantees policy extension.
• Accepted by US clinics.
• Assistance in English and French.
The best snowbirds travel insurance depends on your needs. Use HelloSafe’s comparison tool to find your ideal plan and subscribe directly online.
Compare the best travel insurance policies for freeI compareWhat exactly is snowbirds travel insurance?
Snowbirds travel insurance is a specialized policy designed for Canadians, usually retirees, who spend several weeks or months outside Canada, often in warmer destinations.
It provides emergency medical coverage, trip interruption and cancellation, and protection for pre-existing medical conditions over extended stays.
This insurance is designed for long durations, higher age limits, and specific needs not covered by standard travel insurance.
It is sometimes called “long-stay travel insurance for seniors” or “extended-stay travel insurance.”
Expert advice
Here are the situations where taking out snowbirds travel insurance is especially important for residents of Canada:
- For extended winter stays of several weeks or months abroad.
- When travelling to countries with high medical costs like the USA.
- If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, even stable ones.
- Because your provincial health plan offers very limited coverage abroad.
- When your credit card insurance is insufficient for long-term stays.
- To cover the high cost of emergency repatriation to Canada.
- If you are a senior, as many policies have age limitations.
The Price of snowbirds Travel Insurance
On average, snowbirds travel insurance typically costs between 5% and 10% of the total price of your trip.
| Trip | Trip cost | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| Three months in Florida | $8,000 | $800 to $1,700 |
| Six months in Arizona | $18,000 | $2,000 to $4,500 |
| Four months exploring Mexico | $11,000 | $1,200 to $2,800 |
| Two and a half months in Spain | $7,500 | $700 to $1,600 |
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 snowbirds travel insurance depends on several factors:
- trip duration: longer stays generally mean higher premiums.
- traveller’s age: older travelers pay more due to increased health risks.
- pre-existing medical conditions: coverage for these conditions increases the cost, especially if recent changes or instability.
- destination: trips to the United States are more expensive due to higher healthcare costs compared to other countries.
- coverage limits: higher maximum coverage levels and lower deductibles raise the policy price.
- included extras: additional options, such as trip cancellation, return of vehicle, or higher baggage limits, also increase premiums.
What does snowbirds travel insurance cover?
Snowbirds travel insurance is designed for Canadians, especially retirees, who spend weeks or months in warmer countries during winter. It safeguards against unexpected healthcare costs and travel disruptions while abroad. Policies are structured for longer trips and higher medical risks.
| Covered guarantee | Definition | Expert advice |
|---|---|---|
| 🗓️ Trip cancellation | Refunds prepaid non-refundable costs if you need to cancel before your snowbirds trip. | We recommend a minimum cover of $2,500 with a deductible no higher than $100. Known risks, existing symptoms and change of mind are usually excluded. |
| 🏥 Emergency medical expenses abroad | Key guarantee. Pays for urgent treatment or hospitalization for illness or injury outside Canada. | Insurance should cover at least $1.5M with no deductible, or max $100. Unstable pre-existing conditions, routine care and high-risk sports are often excluded. |
| 🚑 Medical repatriation | Key guarantee. Covers medically necessary return to Canada for ongoing care or specialized treatment. | We recommend unlimited cover via insurer-managed transport services. Refusal by medical authorities or personal choice often voids coverage. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care abroad | Pays for emergency dental procedures during your trip. | At least $500 cover is recommended and deductibles should not exceed $50. Cosmetic procedures and care planned before departure are excluded. |
| 🚗 Return of vehicle | Pays costs for returning your car or RV to Canada if you cannot drive home due to illness. | A minimum cover of $3,000 is recommended, with no deductible. Non-medical causes or voluntary decisions to stop travel are not covered. |
| 🧳 Baggage loss, theft or delay | Compensates for loss, theft or long delay of your personal luggage during transport. | Look for at least $1,000 cover and deductibles below $30. Unattended baggage or partial loss is commonly excluded. |
| 💔 Trip interruption | Refunds unused trip portions and extra return costs if you must interrupt your snowbirds stay for a covered reason. | Choose at least $2,000 cover and avoid deductibles above $100. Voluntary returns and minor reasons are not covered. |
| 🧍 Personal accident | Pays a lump sum for accidental death or permanent disability during your stay abroad. | At least $20,000 cover is advisable with no deductible. Hazardous activities and self-inflicted injuries are often excluded. |
| ⚖️ Personal liability abroad | Covers injury or damage you cause to others during your trip. | Seek minimum cover of $500,000 and a deductible not exceeding $100. Family and property rental-related damage is excluded. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Provides compensation for extra expenses due to significant travel delays. | Compensation of $150 or more after a 6-hour delay is suggested, no deductible. Delays under 6 hours or not confirmed by a carrier are not covered. |
Known risks, existing symptoms and change of mind are usually excluded.
Unstable pre-existing conditions, routine care and high-risk sports are often excluded.
Refusal by medical authorities or personal choice often voids coverage.
Cosmetic procedures and care planned before departure are excluded.
Non-medical causes or voluntary decisions to stop travel are not covered.
Unattended baggage or partial loss is commonly excluded.
Voluntary returns and minor reasons are not covered.
Hazardous activities and self-inflicted injuries are often excluded.
Family and property rental-related damage is excluded.
Delays under 6 hours or not confirmed by a carrier are not covered.
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 snowbirds travel insurance best suited to your profile and trip, easily compare offers on HelloSafe.
The Conditions of snowbirds Travel Insurance
To ensure your snowbirds travel insurance applies, several essential conditions must be fulfilled. These may vary between policies, but the most common are:
- Canadian residency: you must be a resident of Canada at the time you buy your coverage.
- Advance purchase: you must purchase your insurance before departing Canada and before your trip begins.
- Trip duration limit: your stay must not exceed the maximum continuous coverage period stated in your policy.
- Pre-existing condition requirements: only stable pre-existing conditions may be covered, with a stability period usually required.
- Age limits: you must meet the insurer’s age requirements, often applicable for travelers aged 65 and over.
- Return to Canada: you must intend to return to Canada after your trip, and not become a foreign resident.
- Destination eligibility: you must not travel to countries or regions under a Canadian government travel advisory.
- Claim procedure compliance: you must promptly report incidents and provide supporting documents as required by the insurer.
Watch out!
A common misunderstanding for Canadian snowbirds involves pre-existing conditions. Many assume they're covered, but policies require the condition to be “stable” for a set period before departure. A recent change in medication or symptoms can void your entire policy, leaving you unprotected against massive medical bills.
Why take out snowbirds travel insurance?
While travelling for an extended period as a snowbird, even a minor medical issue can result in significant expenses abroad. Typically, these costs are not covered by your provincial health plan and must be paid out of pocket.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs abroad:
| Type of treatment | Average cost | Covered by insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation and treatment for a respiratory infection |
| Up to $10,000,000, depending on policy |
| Stitches after a fall |
| Often 100% up to the policy maximum |
| Emergency medical repatriation to Canada |
| Usually 100% if medically necessary |
| Hospitalization for heart attack |
| Up to $10,000,000, depending on policy |
| Emergency dental extraction |
| Partial coverage, usually within limits |
- Europe: $300 to $600
- North America: $700 to $1,500
- Asia: $150 to $400
- Europe: $350 to $600
- North America: $1,000 to $2,000
- Asia: $200 to $500
- Europe: $15,000 to $30,000
- North America: $30,000 to $60,000
- Asia: $20,000 to $50,000
- Europe: $15,000 to $30,000
- North America: $50,000 to $100,000
- Asia: $10,000 to $20,000
- Europe: $500 to $1,000
- North America: $1,500 to $3,000
- Asia: $350 to $800
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, snowbirds travel insurance may also include coverage for trip interruption or cancellation, lost or delayed baggage, personal liability, and 24/7 emergency assistance, all useful protections when travelling for a long stay.
Good to know
Your provincial plan won't cover you in the U.S. A medical emergency can cost over $100,000. Don't risk your retirement savings on massive medical bills. A comprehensive plan from an insurer like AVA Assurances ensures you're protected, so you can enjoy the sun worry-free.
How to Choose the Right Snowbirds Travel Insurance
Not all snowbirds travel insurance policies offer the same coverage or limits: what is reimbursed, specific limits and conditions can vary widely between companies and contracts. That is why it is essential to compare plans based on their key guarantees before leaving Canada.
| Criterion | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 💰 Reimbursement limits | Costs outside Canada can be very high, especially in the US. | Always ensure the policy covers at least $1,000,000 for emergency medical care. Check if there are sub-limits for specific services. |
| 🧾 Deductible | This is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance starts to reimburse. | Choose a policy with a deductible you can afford, ideally $250 or less. Low deductibles reduce the risk of high upfront expenses. |
| 📅 Maximum trip duration | Snowbirds often travel for several months, which standard travel insurance may not cover. | Verify that your insurance covers the full period of your stay abroad. Pay attention to the insurer’s definition of “single trip.” |
| 👴 Traveller’s age | Some insurers set maximum age limits or higher premiums for seniors. | Look for insurers with no age limit or those who specialize in coverage for seniors. Check if medical questionnaires are required. |
| ❤️ Pre-existing condition coverage | Unstable or recent health changes may exclude or limit coverage. | Confirm pre-existing conditions are covered under “stable” clauses. Review the required stability period without health changes or new prescriptions. |
| 🌎 Destination | Health care costs and policy requirements vary significantly by country. | If travelling to the US, ensure your policy specifically covers US medical costs. Ask about exclusions for certain locations. |
| 🔎 Policy conditions | Certain coverages require timely enrollment or specific procedures if a claim occurs. | Read all conditions carefully and keep your insurer’s emergency number on hand. File claims as soon as possible after an incident. |
| 🧳 Trip interruption/cancellation | These protections can vary, especially for long trips. | Check the amounts and covered reasons for interruption or cancellation. Plans for snowbirds typically include higher limits than standard policies. |
| 🛡️ Existing coverage | Credit cards and provincial plans offer only partial or limited coverage for long stays. | Review your current coverage to avoid gaps or overlapping insurance. Never rely solely on provincial or card insurance for snowbirds trips. |
Check if there are sub-limits for specific services.
Low deductibles reduce the risk of high upfront expenses.
Pay attention to the insurer’s definition of “single trip.”
Check if medical questionnaires are required.
Review the required stability period without health changes or new prescriptions.
Ask about exclusions for certain locations.
File claims as soon as possible after an incident.
Plans for snowbirds typically include higher limits than standard policies.
Never rely solely on provincial or card insurance for snowbirds trips.
Does My Current Insurance Policy Cover snowbirds Travel Insurance?
It is legitimate to wonder if your current insurances, such as credit card insurance or your public health plan, can offer you a snowbirds 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 | Snowbirds travel insurance included? | What it covers | Why travel insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (OHIP, RAMQ) | Never | Pays up to $400/day for hospital or $50/day doctor fees abroad, medical only. No coverage for pre-existing conditions abroad, no repatriation, no trip interruption or cancellation, no lost luggage. | Travel insurance offers up to $10,000,000 CA for long stays. Travel insurance covers pre-existing conditions, repatriation, trip cancellation, and baggage loss. |
| Private health insurance (Sun Life, Manulife) | Almost Never | Possible $1,000,000–$10,000,000 for emergencies with travel add-on, but duration and age limited. No coverage for long stays, most pre-existing conditions, trip extensions, or non-emergency costs for snowbirds. | Travel insurance covers up to $10,000,000 CA for ages up to 89. Travel insurance includes return of vehicle, long stays, and stable pre-existing conditions. |
| Classic credit card (TD Rewards Visa, RBC Visa Platinum) | Never | Usually $1,000,000–$2,000,000 for short trips only (15–21 days), many age limits. No coverage for stays over 21 days, medical evacuation, or pre-existing condition risks for snowbirds. | Travel insurance covers 90–182 days, up to $10,000,000 CA. Travel insurance covers lengthy winter stays and broader medical risks. |
| Premium credit card (BMO World Elite, CIBC Aventura) | Limited coverage | Covers up to $2,000,000 for short trips, may include interruption and baggage, strict age cap. No coverage for 3–6 month snowbird travel, trip extensions, or pre-existing condition changes. | Travel insurance covers months rather than weeks, up to $10,000,000 CA. Travel insurance covers trip extensions, cancellation, medical changes, and repatriation. |
No coverage for pre-existing conditions abroad, no repatriation, no trip interruption or cancellation, no lost luggage.
Travel insurance covers pre-existing conditions, repatriation, trip cancellation, and baggage loss.
No coverage for long stays, most pre-existing conditions, trip extensions, or non-emergency costs for snowbirds.
Travel insurance includes return of vehicle, long stays, and stable pre-existing conditions.
No coverage for stays over 21 days, medical evacuation, or pre-existing condition risks for snowbirds.
Travel insurance covers lengthy winter stays and broader medical risks.
No coverage for 3–6 month snowbird travel, trip extensions, or pre-existing condition changes.
Travel insurance covers trip extensions, cancellation, medical changes, and repatriation.
Expert advice
Bank card and health insurance policies often exclude critical situations like trip interruption for a relative's illness. Always read the fine print to avoid costly surprises abroad. For true peace of mind, it is always safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your specific trip.
FAQ
Is snowbirds travel insurance mandatory?
Snowbirds travel insurance is not legally mandatory for all trips, but it is required by some countries, such as Cuba, which demand valid travel insurance for entry. Even where it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended—for example, during a winter stay in the U.S., a medical emergency can result in bills exceeding $25,000 CAD not covered by provincial health plans. Having insurance protects you from enormous unexpected costs and ensures access to quality medical care abroad.
When is it recommended to purchase snowbirds travel insurance?
The best time to purchase snowbirds travel insurance is before your departure date, ideally right after booking your trip. Buying in advance guarantees coverage even if you develop a new health issue before you leave. Early purchase also means you can benefit from trip cancellation or interruption protection and secure lower premiums while more policy options are available.
How do I purchase snowbirds travel insurance?
First, compare available options using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to ensure you get the coverage that suits your needs. Next, review the guarantees and exclusions, paying attention to conditions specific to snowbirds, such as pre-existing condition clauses and coverage duration. Once satisfied, purchase your plan online and you’ll receive your insurance certificate by email instantly.
Can I purchase snowbirds travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can usually buy snowbirds travel insurance even after booking your trip, as long as you do so before you leave Canada. However, buying earlier has advantages: coverage for last-minute health issues, trip cancellation, and a better chance to find the right policy for your health profile. Purchase as soon as possible to maximize your protection.
How do I make a claim with my snowbirds travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance service right away—most providers offer 24/7 lines. You’ll need to provide your policy number, proof of incident (such as medical reports or receipts), and complete a claim form. Fast communication and thorough documentation help speed up the reimbursement process.
What should I look for if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
If you have a pre-existing condition, choose a policy that explicitly covers it and check the stability period, which is the time your health must remain unchanged before your trip. Ensure the definition of “stable” matches your medical situation; otherwise, any related claim may be denied. Disclose all details honestly to avoid issues later.
Is snowbirds travel insurance mandatory?
Snowbirds travel insurance is not legally mandatory for all trips, but it is required by some countries, such as Cuba, which demand valid travel insurance for entry. Even where it is not mandatory, it is highly recommended—for example, during a winter stay in the U.S., a medical emergency can result in bills exceeding $25,000 CAD not covered by provincial health plans. Having insurance protects you from enormous unexpected costs and ensures access to quality medical care abroad.
When is it recommended to purchase snowbirds travel insurance?
The best time to purchase snowbirds travel insurance is before your departure date, ideally right after booking your trip. Buying in advance guarantees coverage even if you develop a new health issue before you leave. Early purchase also means you can benefit from trip cancellation or interruption protection and secure lower premiums while more policy options are available.
How do I purchase snowbirds travel insurance?
First, compare available options using HelloSafe’s travel insurance comparison platform to ensure you get the coverage that suits your needs. Next, review the guarantees and exclusions, paying attention to conditions specific to snowbirds, such as pre-existing condition clauses and coverage duration. Once satisfied, purchase your plan online and you’ll receive your insurance certificate by email instantly.
Can I purchase snowbirds travel insurance after booking my trip?
Yes, you can usually buy snowbirds travel insurance even after booking your trip, as long as you do so before you leave Canada. However, buying earlier has advantages: coverage for last-minute health issues, trip cancellation, and a better chance to find the right policy for your health profile. Purchase as soon as possible to maximize your protection.
How do I make a claim with my snowbirds travel insurance?
To make a claim, contact your insurer’s emergency assistance service right away—most providers offer 24/7 lines. You’ll need to provide your policy number, proof of incident (such as medical reports or receipts), and complete a claim form. Fast communication and thorough documentation help speed up the reimbursement process.
What should I look for if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
If you have a pre-existing condition, choose a policy that explicitly covers it and check the stability period, which is the time your health must remain unchanged before your trip. Ensure the definition of “stable” matches your medical situation; otherwise, any related claim may be denied. Disclose all details honestly to avoid issues later.
On the same topic
