TLDR
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Not all travel insurance plans are created equal. Understanding what your policy covers – and what it doesn’t – can help ensure you’re protected and prepared.
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For pre-existing conditions to be covered, they must be considered “stable” for a certain period of time before traveling.
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The best value plan doesn’t necessarily mean the cheapest. Deductibles, exclusions and upfront bill payments are important to consider.
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If you’re over 60, be sure to check if your policy has any age limits or age-based restrictions.
There’s something about travelling south in the winter — whether it’s for one week or the whole season. You get to shed some layers, soak up the sun and enjoy your favourite outdoor activities in warmer temperatures. You can’t beat it!
But planning your getaway to the U.S. involves more than packing your sunscreen and digging out your golf clubs (or pickleball racquet or hiking shoes). Purchasing travel insurance for Canadians is an essential step to take before heading south.
The right insurance can help protect you financially in the event of an unexpected illness or accident while you’re away. Here are five considerations to keep in mind as you evaluate your travel insurance options – so you can bring peace of mind along with you on your travels south of the border.
Understand what your policy covers (and what it doesn’t)
Not all travel insurance plans are created equal. Some offer broad protection for medical emergencies, while others are more limited – especially if you’re travelling for longer periods.
Here are the key things your policy should include:
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Emergency medical care and hospitalization: This covers you if you get sick or injured while away and need to see a doctor or stay in the hospital.
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Medical evacuation and repatriation: If you need to be transported to another facility or back to Canada for care, this can save you a lot of money in unexpected costs.
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24/7 emergency assistance: Look for a plan that offers round-the-clock support, so you can get help coordinating care, no matter what time zone you’re in.
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Trip interruption and delay coverage: If your trip is cut short or your flight is delayed for a covered reason, this can help with rebooking costs or lost prepaid expenses.
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Personal liability: This protects you if you accidentally injure someone or damage property while away.
If your plan includes these essentials, you’ll be covered for the most common situations travellers encounter. You can always add extras – like adventure sports coverage – if it aligns with your style of travel.
Know how pre-existing conditions are treated
For many Canadians, managing health conditions is a normal part of life. But when it comes to travel insurance, it’s important to know how your policy defines and handles pre-existing conditions.
Most insurers require that a condition be “stable” for a certain period – usually between 90 and 180 days – before your departure date. That means no changes in treatment, medication or symptoms during that time. If your condition isn’t considered stable, related medical issues may not be covered.
To make sure you’re protected:
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Read the fine print about what “stable” means for your insurer.
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Answer any medical questionnaires honestly and completely.
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Ask your doctor for written confirmation if your condition has been stable.
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If you’re unsure, look into plans designed for travellers with pre-existing conditions – they may offer more flexibility, though usually at a higher cost.
Look beyond the price tag
It might be tempting to pick the least expensive travel insurance, especially if you’re already spending money on flights, accommodations, leisure activities… and all the little extras. But when it comes to coverage, cheaper doesn’t always mean better value.
As you assess insurance plans, be sure to find out a few key details:
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Deductibles: How much would you have to pay out of pocket before coverage kicks in?
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Payment process: Will the insurer pay the hospital directly, or will you have to pay your bills and make a claim later?
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Length of coverage: Does the plan cover the entire stay? Can you renew while you’re away in case your plans change?
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Exclusions: Some plans won’t cover certain activities, destinations or types of travel.
While the right plan might cost a bit more upfront, it can save you money, time and stress if something goes wrong.
Check for age limits and eligibility
Age is another factor that can affect both your coverage and your costs. Many insurers have age-based travel rules for coverage amounts, deductibles or medical questionnaires, especially for travellers over 60 or 65.
For example:
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Some plans require medical screening after a certain age, even if you’re in excellent health
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Others may cap the length of your stay – for instance, offering coverage for up to 60 or 90 days at a time
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Premiums typically increase with age, but policies with lower limits or higher deductibles may help offset the cost
If you’re a snowbird who travels south for several months of the year, make sure your plan covers your full stay and allows extensions if you decide to linger a little longer.
Understand what trip cancellation really covers
Trip cancellation and trip interruption coverage can be a lifesaver, but it’s important to know what’s included and what’s not.
Trip cancellation coverage reimburses you for prepaid or non-refundable travel expenses should you need to cancel your trip due to a range of unforeseen incidents — such as you’re called for jury duty, you or a family member gets sick and can’t travel or there’s a traffic accident on the way to the airport that causes you to miss your flight. But, if you change your mind about travelling, you won’t qualify for reimbursement.
Similarly, trip interruption coverage helps if you need to return home unexpectedly, for example, due to a medical emergency or natural disaster. It can cover unused travel expenses and the cost of getting home early.
Bonus tip: Match your coverage to your travel style
As you choose your policy, think about your cross-border lifestyle. Matching the frequency, style and mode of travel to your insurance plan can help you get the right coverage:
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If you frequently fly to the U.S., an annual plan might save you time and money.
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If you’re planning to drive south of the border, confirm that your plan covers cross-border road trips and that your car insurance extends to the U.S.
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If you’re planning on bringing along family members, make sure everyone is covered under the same policy
Heading south for the winter is one of life’s great pleasures – and having travel insurance can make it even more relaxing. Knowing that you’re protected if something unexpected happens means you can focus on what really counts – warm days, good company and a well-earned break from the snow. Before you go, take the time to compare plans, read the fine print and ask questions about coverage limits, medical requirements and renewal options. With the right insurance in place, you can travel with confidence – and truly enjoy your time away.
Travelling to the U.S?
Set up your U.S. banking and credit card before you travel to make life simpler.
This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.
