Should you buy travel insurance to the USA?
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Whether it's indulging in the vibrant music scene of New Orleans or hiking through the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite National Park, or relaxing at the iconic Central Park of New York City, USA has so much to offer.
But before you cross the border, there's one crucial item you mustn't forget: travel insurance for the USA. Yes, like the rest of the world, Canadians visiting USA need travel insurance too.
In this comprehensive article, we'll explore the ins and outs of travel health insurance for Canadian residents visiting the USA, answering all your questions about its necessity, how it functions, the prices, and everything else you need to know.
Travel insurance USA: 5 Key takeaways
- Travel Insurance for the USA for Canadians is a must-have especially due to high healthcare costs.
- The premiums are based on age, length of the trip, extent of coverage, add-ons.
- Travel Insurance for Canadian seniors might cost higher than younger adults.
- The best travel insurance for the USA is based on specific individual needs.
- Use our comparator to compare travel insurance plans offered by Canada's top providers and get free quotes.
Is travel insurance mandatory when going to the USA?
It is not mandatory for Canadian travellers to buy travel health insurance when going to the USA However, it's recommended.
In the case of air travel, it's crucial to secure insurance coverage that accounts for possible trip interruptions, lost luggage, and the need for document replacement. On the other hand, if you intend to drive like many Canadians, make sure you have sufficient coverage for both the driver and the vehicle in the event of an accident.
Why buy travel health insurance to the USA?
Travel health insurance is a must-have when you're traveling because your Canadian health insurance does not typically cover medical expenses incurred outside of Canada. Your provincial or territorial health plan may provide limited or no coverage for medical care abroad, and it does not offer upfront payment for your bills.
This can be problematic since foreign hospitals often have expensive medical care costs and may require immediate cash payment. Moreover, in certain countries, hospitals and clinics may refuse treatment if you lack adequate insurance coverage or funds.
It's important to remember that the Government of Canada does not assume responsibility for your medical bills while traveling. By purchasing travel health insurance, you ensure that you are adequately protected and financially prepared for any unexpected medical emergencies that may arise during your trip.
Can a Canadian get travel insurance in the US?
Yes, Canadians can buy and get travel insurance in the US. Many insurance providers in the US offer travel insurance policies that can be purchased by Canadian residents. These policies typically provide coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, and other travel-related risks.
How much USA travel insurance is needed?
The required amount of travel health insurance USA from Canada depends on your individual circumstances. It's recommended to have sufficient coverage for emergency medical expenses, as healthcare costs can be high in the USA.
Consider the duration of your trip, any pre-existing medical conditions, and the value of your belongings. Additionally, having coverage for trip cancellation/interruption is important to protect your investment in case of unforeseen events.
Assess your needs and select a policy with coverage limits that align with your requirements for the best insurance.
Do you need medical insurance to travel to the USA?
Medical insurance for travel to the USA typically focuses on providing coverage specifically for medical expenses incurred during your trip to the USA.
It is designed to cover emergency medical treatment, hospitalisation, doctor visits, prescription medications, and emergency medical evacuation. The primary emphasis is on healthcare-related costs and services.
Medical insurance for travel to the USA is crucial due to high healthcare costs. Look for comprehensive coverage including emergency medical expenses, hospitalisation, and emergency evacuation.
Ensure coverage limits are adequate for potential expenses. Consider pre-existing conditions and any required screenings. Familiarise yourself with the claim process and 24/7 assistance provided.
Also the cost of travel insurance to the USA with pre existing conditions will vary based on the coverage of the said condition and its severity.
How much medical insurance do you need for USA?
The amount of travel medical insurance you need for the USA depends on factors such as your age, health condition, and the length of your trip. It is recommended to have coverage that includes at least $100,000 to $500,000 for emergency medical expenses.
Consider your personal circumstances and consult with insurance providers to determine the appropriate coverage amount for your specific need as the requirements may be different from the travel insurance for USA residents.
What is covered by travel insurance to the USA?
Travel insurance coverage for trips to the USA can vary depending on the specific insurance policy and provider. However, here's what travel insurance to the USA typically covers and what it may not cover:
What travel insurance to the USA covers:
- Medical expenses, including emergency medical treatment and hospitalisation
- Trip cancellation or interruption due to unforeseen circumstances
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Lost or stolen baggage and personal belongings
- Travel delays and missed connections
- Accidental death and dismemberment benefits
- 24/7 emergency assistance services
What travel insurance to the USA does not cover:
- Pre-existing medical conditions unless additional coverage is purchased
- High-risk activities such as extreme sports or hazardous events
- Non-emergency medical treatment or routine check-ups
- Expenses resulting from illegal activities or intoxication
- Acts of war, terrorism, or civil unrest
- Certain natural disasters or epidemics (coverage varies)
Does travel insurance cover car rental?
Travel insurance to the USA typically does not provide coverage for rental cars or vehicles as its primary focus is on medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, and other travel-related risks. However, some travel insurance policies offer optional add-ons or separate coverage specifically for rental cars, typically covering collision damage due to a collision, theft, and vandalism. This coverage is commonly known as "collision damage waiver" or "loss damage waiver."
Liability coverage for damage to other vehicles or property is generally not included, so it's advisable to check with the rental car company or consider separate liability coverage if needed.
Keep in mind that rental car coverage offered by travel insurance policies may have certain limitations, exclusions, or deductibles.
Expert advice
You could also find this coverage provided by your credit card travel insurance. Higher-tier credit cards often have comprehensive travel insurance, while cash back and rewards cards may offer basic travel insurance.
If you'd like to take a look at the different travel insurance options, you can use our comparator for quick results on pricing, coverage, and also get free quotes.
Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!
How much is travel insurance to the USA from Canada?
The price of travel insurance for visitors to the USA depends on:
- Your age
- Your desired coverage type and limits
- Your destination(s)
- Deductibles and excess
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Additional add-ons
- Length of your trip
Expert advice
Therefore it is important to get an individual quote customised for your unique needs. It is recommended to speak with the travel insurance customer care to get the best plan options. Also, the cost might change based on countries and regions. For example, travel insurance from India to the USA might be different from the premium for visitors from Canada.
However, here is an example of the travel insurance to the USA cost with AIG Travel Insurance. The figures are for a 30-year-old traveler who is a resident of Ontario, on a two-week vacation in the USA.
| Type of travel insurance to the USA | Premium | Coverage Amounts |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Medical Plan - Annual Option - 16 Days | CAN$85.00 | Meals & Accommodations: Up to $1,750 ($175 per day) Emergency Evacuation: Up to $300,000 Emergency Medical Expense Ages 0-54: Unlimited Emergency Medical Expense Ages 55+: Up to $10,000,000 Non-GHIP Emergency Medical Expense: Up to $10,000 |
| Gold Emergency Medical Plan - Single Trip | CAN$36.70 | Meals & Accommodations: Up to $1,750 ($175 per day) Emergency Evacuation: Up to $300,000 Emergency Medical Expenses 0-54: Unlimited Emergency Medical Expense Ages 55+: Up to $10,000,000 Non-GHIP Emergency Medical Expense: Up to $10,000 |
| Silver Deluxe Trip Cancellation/Interruption Package | CAN$210.60 | Trip Cancellation: 100% trip cost up to $20,000 Baggage and Personal Effects: Up to $750 Baggage Delay: Up to $400 Travel Accident: Up to $50,000 |
| Platinum All Inclusive Package | CAN$436.52 | Trip Cancellation: Up to $20,000 Trip Delay: $5,000 Baggage Delay: $750 Emergency Medical Expenses 0-59: Unlimited Emergency Medical Expenses 60+: Up to $10,000,000 Non-GHIP Emergency Medical Expenses: Up to $10,000 |
Good to know
Please note that this table provides a summarised overview, and it's important to review the complete policy documents for accurate and detailed information regarding coverage, terms, and conditions. Also keep in mind the rates are specifically for Canada and not for travel insurance from the UK to the United States.
Why is travel insurance to the USA so expensive?
Travel insurance to the America tends to be more expensive due to factors such as high healthcare costs, higher risks of trip cancellations, the demand for comprehensive coverage, and fluctuating exchange rates.
These factors contribute to higher premiums as insurance providers need to account for potential medical expenses, legal costs, and trip interruption risks. While it may be more costly, travel insurance for the USA offers vital protection and financial security in unforeseen circumstances.
You could use our comparator tool to compare travel insurance USA options, prices, coverage and free quotes:
Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!
8 tips to get the cheapest USA travel insurance
To get cheap travel insurance for the USA, you can consider the following tips
- Compare Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers and compare them to find the most affordable option. You could use our free comparison tool at the end of this page.
- Opt for Basic Coverage: Choose a travel insurance plan with basic coverage that meets your essential needs. Avoid unnecessary add-ons or upgraded features that may increase the premium.
- Adjust Coverage Limits: Evaluate the coverage limits offered by different plans. Opt for lower coverage limits if they adequately meet your requirements, as higher limits typically come with higher premiums.
- Increase Deductibles: Select a policy with higher deductibles. Increasing the deductible can lower the premium but be prepared for higher out-of-pocket expenses in case of a claim.
- Exclude Optional Coverage: Review the optional coverage options provided by the insurer and exclude those that are not essential for your trip. This can help reduce the premium cost.
- Shorten Trip Duration: If possible, shorten the duration of your trip. Travel insurance premiums are often calculated based on the length of your trip, so a shorter duration may result in a lower premium.
- Shop Around for Discounts: Look for any discounts or promotional offers provided by insurance companies. Some insurers offer discounts for purchasing online, bundling policies, or for certain memberships.
- Consider Local Providers: Explore travel insurance options from local or regional insurers, as they may offer competitive rates compared to international insurance companies.
Can Canadian seniors buy travel insurance to the USA?
Yes, there is travel insurance available specifically for Canadian seniors visiting the USA. Many insurance providers offer policies tailored to the needs of Canadian seniors traveling to the USA, considering factors such as age, medical conditions, and specific requirements.
These policies typically provide coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, emergency evacuation, and other benefits that cater to the unique needs of senior travellers.
While USA travel insurance for seniors may be relatively more expensive compared to younger travellers, the cost can vary depending on factors such as age, trip duration, coverage limits, and pre-existing medical conditions.
Insurance providers consider the higher risk associated with age-related health conditions, which can contribute to higher premiums.
Which is the best travel insurance for the USA?
The best travel insurance for visitors to the USA depends on individual preferences, specific travel needs, and budget. Different insurance providers offer a range of plans with varying coverage options.
To find the best travel health insurance for a USA trip, consider the following:
- Coverage: Look for comprehensive coverage that includes emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, emergency evacuation, and baggage loss/delay.
- Medical Coverage: Ensure the policy provides sufficient coverage for emergency medical expenses and pre-existing medical conditions.
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Check the coverage for trip cancellation or interruption due to unforeseen events.
- Deductibles and Excess: Consider the associated deductibles and excess amounts.
- Add-Ons and Optional Coverage: Check for additional coverage options like rental car protection or adventure sports coverage.
- Customer Reviews and Ratings: Research customer reviews to assess the insurance provider's reputation for customer service and claim handling.
- Price: Compare premiums to ensure they align with your budget while offering the desired coverage.
The best travel insurance for visitors to the USA will vary based on the aforementioned factors. However, here are some of the popular travel insurances for Canadians and others visiting the USA:
- Blue Cross travel insurance USA
- Allianz travel insurance USA
- World Nomads Travel Insurance USA
- Caa travel insurance USA
- Manulife Travel Insurance
- Tugo Travel Insurance
How to cancel my travel insurance for the USA?
To cancel your insurance, it is important to familiarise yourself with the cancellation terms outlined in your policy. Contact your insurance company or travel agent to initiate the cancellation process, providing the necessary details and reason for cancellation.
Inquire about any applicable fees or penalties, as some policies may have specific cancellation periods or fees for late cancellations. Submit a written cancellation request, keeping a copy for your records.
Request written confirmation of the cancellation, which may be required for potential refunds or dispute resolution. Additionally, inquire about the refund process and the expected timeline for reimbursement.
How to claim my travel insurance for USA?
When filing a claim, there are key steps to follow. Begin by collecting all the necessary documentation, including flight itineraries, hotel reservations, medical bills, medication costs, and any other relevant receipts or records.
Next, reach out to your insurance provider or travel agent to initiate the claim process. Fill out the claim form accurately and ensure that you provide all the required supporting documents. Be prepared to provide any additional information if requested by the insurance provider.
Once your claim form is submitted, patiently await the claim decision and settlement according to the terms of your policy. If your claim is unfairly denied, you have the option to appeal the decision or escalate the matter to a consumer protection agency for further assistance.
Now that you know how important having a travel health insurance is, take a look at the different policies and compare plans offered by Canada's best travel insurances using our comparator below.
Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!
