Embarking on an adventure to Canada, eh?
While the Great White North is known for its friendly people, breathtaking landscapes, and tasty poutine, it’s also a land where unexpected occurrences can transpire. As Dave Ramsey would say, “Personal finance is 80% behavior and only 20% head knowledge.”
So, let’s ensure that your behavior includes safeguarding your investment in your trip by selecting the ideal travel insurance plan.
When evaluating travel insurance plans for your Canadian escapade, there are a multitude of factors to mull over.
In the words of Ramsey himself, “Don’t buy something just because it’s on sale.” Instead, let’s delve into the key aspects to consider when sifting through the plethora of options:
The right policy will protect you against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellation, flight delays, and more.
Here are some of the top recommended travel insurance policies for Canadian visitors.
In this article...
Which is the best travel insurance for Canada?
Canada is an incredibly beautiful country, with a variety of landscapes to explore. With such a vast array of experiences on offer, it’s important to make sure you have the right travel insurance plan in place to protect you and your family when travelling.
Whether you’re planning a backpacking adventure or a once-in-a-lifetime family holiday, having the right coverage can give you peace of mind.
In this article, we’ll be looking at the top travel insurance plans available in Canada, so you can find the one that’s right for you.
- Coverage Range: The scope of your coverage should envelop potential mishaps, from medical emergencies and trip cancellations to lost luggage and travel delays. A comprehensive plan that shields you from a wide array of unforeseen circumstances is crucial in maintaining peace of mind during your journey.
- Deductible Choices: A higher deductible may lead to lower premiums, but it could also result in a more substantial financial burden in the long haul if you need to file a claim. Weigh your options and opt for a deductible that harmonizes with your budget and risk tolerance.
- Exclusions: Peruse the nitty-gritty details to comprehend any exclusions that may pertain to your policy. Common exclusions encompass pre-existing medical conditions, high-risk sports or activities, and travel to specific regions or countries. If you harbor particular concerns, address them with your insurance provider before purchasing a policy.
- Duration of Coverage: Ascertain that your policy envelops the entire duration of your trip, from the moment you depart from home until your return. Some policies impose limitations on the length of coverage, so scrutinize the details before making a commitment.
- Policy Extensions: If you decide to prolong your trip or incorporate a destination, verify that your policy can be adjusted accordingly. Flexibility in your coverage is always a boon, just in case your plans undergo alterations.
- Claims Process: Investigate the claims process for any prospective insurance provider. You want to collaborate with a company that boasts a straightforward, efficient claims process to minimize stress and delays if you need to file a claim.
Recommended Plans
Up to $2,000,000 of Overall Maximum Coverage, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Medical coverage for eligible expenses related to COVID-19, Trip Interruption & Travel Delay.
Coverage for in-patient and out-patient medical accidents up to $1 Million, Coverage of acute episodes of pre-existing conditions, Coverage from 5 days to 364 days (about 12 months).
Up to $8,000,000 limits, Emergency Medical Evacuation, Coinsurance for treatment received in the U.S. (100% within PPO Network), Acute Onset of Pre-Existing Conditions covered.
Top Travel Insurance Providers for Canada
An abundance of travel insurance providers saturates the market, but heed Dave Ramsey’s advice: “Don’t buy something just because it’s on sale.” Conduct thorough research and select a reputable provider that proffers comprehensive coverage and exceptional customer service. Some top contenders for travel insurance for Canada include:
- World Nomads: Lauded for their flexibility and all-encompassing coverage, World Nomads is a favored choice among travelers. Their policies envelop a vast range of adventure sports and activities, rendering them an excellent option for thrill-seekers.
- Allianz Travel: Allianz offers an array of travel insurance plans, incorporating single-trip and annual policies. They boast a robust reputation for customer service and claims processing, rendering them a dependable choice for your Canadian expedition.
- Travelex: Travelex is acclaimed for its customizable policies, enabling you to cherry-pick the coverage that best aligns with your needs. They also proffer a “Cancel for Any Reason” upgrade, supplying you with additional tranquility when planning your trip.
- AIG Travel Guard: AIG is a renowned insurance provider with a solid reputation in travel insurance. Their policies provide comprehensive coverage, and they feature a user-friendly online claims process.
- AXA Travel Insurance: AXA offers a medley of travel insurance plans, including options specifically tailored for trips to Canada. They maintain a potent global presence, ensuring you’ll have access to support regardless of your whereabouts in Canada.
- Seven Corners: Renowned for their customizable plans and top-notch customer service, Seven Corners is an excellent option for travelers seeking tailored coverage. Their policies are designed to accommodate various needs, from budget-conscious travelers to those desiring more comprehensive protection.
- IMG Global: International Medical Group (IMG) is a premier provider of global insurance benefits and assistance services. With a strong emphasis on medical coverage and emergency assistance, IMG is an ideal choice for those who prioritize health and safety during their travels.
How to buy travel insurance for Canada?
1. Check the coverage
Make sure that you are getting comprehensive coverage for your trip, including medical and emergency evacuation insurance. Consider the type of activities you plan to do while in Canada and make sure that they are covered.
2. Check the deductible
Your travel insurance policy will have a deductible associated with it. This is the amount that you would need to pay out-of-pocket before the insurer would cover the remaining costs. Make sure that the deductible is within your budget.
3. Check for exclusions
Some policies may exclude certain activities or locations. For example, some policies may not cover extreme sports such as skiing, snowboarding or mountain biking.
Be sure to read the policy carefully and make sure that it covers any activities you plan to do while in Canada.
4. Check the validity period
Most travel insurance policies have a validity period associated with them. This is the time frame during which the policy is valid and you should make sure that it covers the duration of your trip to Canada.
5. Compare different policies
Different insurers offer different levels of coverage, so it’s important to compare policies and find the one that best suits your needs. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek clarification on any points that you don’t understand.
6. Consider the cost
Cost is obviously an important factor when choosing a travel insurance policy. Make sure that you shop around and get the most competitive rate.
In conclusion, selecting the appropriate travel insurance for your Canadian adventure is an integral aspect of planning your journey.
Keep Dave Ramsey’s sage advice in mind: “You must gain control over your money or the lack of it will forever control you.” Invest in a policy that offers comprehensive coverage, aligns with your budget, and emanates from a reputable provider.
This will ensure that you can fully relish the splendors of Canada without fretting over potential mishaps or financial setbacks. Happy travels!
