travel insurance canada bc

Travel Insurance

More coverage in more places ®.

Get out there and enjoy yourself knowing you have the right coverage and 24/7 access to a caring team who’s always on call—no matter how big or how small the emergency.

More Coverage In More Places™

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Explore Your Coverage Options

Travel packages.

Coverage for the widest range of unexpected travel situations.

Travel Medical

Coverage to fill the gap left by my provincial health insurance.

Cancellation & Interruption

Coverage for non-refundable and/or non-transferable trip expenses if my trip is cancelled or interrupted.

Visitors to Canada

When visiting, immigrating to or studying in Canada and need emergency medical coverage.

Travel Insurance Advice by Trip Type

Choose from the topics below for some quick advice on the type of coverage that may be right for you:

Travel Insurance FAQs

Have a question about travel insurance? Get the answers you need here.

For questions about travel and COVID-19, please visit the COVID-19 page.

• Eligibility
• Emergencies

Our goal is to make affordable travel insurance coverage available to as many Canadians as possible. In general, any Canadian resident can purchase some form of coverage with us. Factors such as where you are travelling, your health and the length of your trip may affect the specific coverage(s) available to you.

Note : Non-residents travelling to Canada, immigrants to Canada or foreign students studying in Canada may be eligible to purchase one of our Visitors to Canada Plans.

Generally speaking, no. While your age can affect your eligibility for certain coverages, we have packages and plans that cover all age groups. If you are age 65 or older, we may ask you to answer a few questions about your health to make sure you have the most appropriate coverage.

Yes, you may purchase a policy for your parents. Simply call us at 1-866-896-8172 , buy online , or visit an RBC Insurance Store . Depending on their age, they may be required to complete health questions in order to obtain coverage. If this is not a requirement, please keep in mind that all terms and conditions apply to your parents, therefore we recommend that you review the insurance with them prior to purchase.

Possibly. Depending on your age, medical condition and, if applicable, your answers to our health questions, pre-existing medical conditions are covered if they are stable for a certain time period (as specified in your policy) before your policy's effective date.

Note: Please refer to the policy document for complete coverage details regarding pre-existing conditions.

Your answers to the health questions (if applicable) will be used to help determine the benefits you are eligible to receive under your insurance policy.

When answering the health questions:

• Take your time. The questions may take up to 10 minutes to complete.
• You (the applicant) should complete and sign the Medical Questionnaire. (If you have someone else complete the Medical Questionnaire on your behalf, it is still your responsibility to make sure the answers to the questions are correct.)
• Read and answer each question carefully and accurately. Review your answers to confirm they are correct. Incorrect answers may lead to your coverage being voided or your claim denied.
• Have your prescriptions or a description of your medications nearby for reference.
• If you are unsure about any questions regarding your medical condition or medications, please speak to your physician.

If necessary, a family member or close friend can complete the questions on your behalf. Please keep in mind, however, that it is still your responsibility to sign the form and make sure the answers are correct.

Yes, it is recommended that you buy coverage for your spouse as well.

This answer depends largely on your child's age.

• If your child is under 2 years old and you are purchasing the Deluxe Package or a TravelCare ® Package, then your child receives emergency medical coverage at no extra cost.
• If your child is 2 or older , you'll need to purchase emergency medical coverage for him or her.
• No matter how old your child is , if you've purchased an airline ticket or made a separate trip deposit for him or her, consider buying a travel insurance package or trip cancellation and interruption insurance .

The right coverage for your trip depends on several factors, including (but not limited to) where you're travelling to, how long you’ll be gone, the kind of transportation you'll be using and, in some instances, your overall health. View all of our travel insurance products now.

An accident, illness or medical emergency can happen anywhere, anytime. If you need medical care or treatment in another country, your government health plan may cover only a portion of the costs. Travel insurance starts where these plans leave off.

Plus, with our emergency medical coverage, you have access to the multilingual representatives of Allianz Global Assistance.

Yes, if you are travelling outside your home province or territory. There are several reasons why it's important to get travel medical insurance when you're travelling within Canada. One reason is that accidents can happen anywhere. Another is that government health insurance plans do have limits on reimbursement of emergency medical expenses incurred while you are in another province. For example, the ambulance, emergency dental treatment and prescription drugs might not be covered by some government health insurance plans.

You may extend your coverage if you extend your trip, subject to certain conditions of your policy.

If you've purchased a single trip plan, the following conditions apply:

• If you have not had a medical condition during your trip or while covered under your policy, you can request an extension by contacting us at 1-866-896-8172 before your original policy’s expiry date.
• If you have had a medical condition during your trip and while covered under your policy, you must request the extension by contacting Allianz Global Assistance before the expiry date of your original policy. Your extension is subject to the approval of Allianz Global Assistance.
• You must pay the required additional premium before your original policy’s expiry date.
• If we are unable to extend your particular policy's coverage due to the trip duration limits of your policy, you may be able to purchase a new policy from us.

If you've purchased a multi-trip annual plan, the following conditions apply:

You may purchase a top-up policy for the additional number of days beyond the duration covered by your multi-trip annual plan as follows:

• Before your effective date, you may contact us at 1-866-896-8172 to purchase top-up coverage.
• After your effective date and if you have not had a medical condition during your trip, you must contact us at 1-866-896-8172 before your original policy’s expiry date to purchase top-up coverage.
• After your effective date and if you have had a medical condition during your trip, you must contact Allianz Global Assistance before your original policy’s expiry date to request approval for and to purchase top-up coverage.
• The terms, conditions and exclusions of the new top-up policy apply to you.
• You must pay the required top-up premium on or before the effective date of the top-up period.

If you do NOT top-up your coverage for a trip, you will not be covered for any claims you make outside the period of insurance for that trip. If the top-up policy you are purchasing requires you to complete health questions, you must complete the health questions.

Please see the policy documents for complete coverage details regarding trip extensions.

It may, but not always. We recommend that you carefully review the travel insurance coverage provided by your credit card, as well as any special conditions or stipulations.

Do you have an RBC Royal Bank ® credit card?

To review the travel insurance coverage that comes with your RBC Royal Bank credit card, visit: www.rbcroyalbank.com/cards/documentation/index.html and click the "Insurance Certificate" link for your card.

We recommend that you carefully review your government health plan coverage. Government plans may not cover all emergency medical expenses once you leave your home province/territory and typically cover only a limited portion once you leave the country. In fact, the Canadian Government (Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada) urges Canadians to purchase supplemental health insurance when leaving the country. They say:

Do not rely on your provincial or territorial health plan to cover costs if you get sick or are injured while abroad. Out-of-country health care can be costly, and your health plan may not cover any medical expenses abroad. It is your responsibility to seek information from your provincial or territorial health authority and to obtain supplementary travel insurance and understand the terms of your policy. 2

Plus, government health insurance plans don't guarantee coverage for special care (air ambulance or emergency dental services, for instance).

Unlike government health insurance plans, our insurance offers you:

• Unlimited coverage for eligible medical expenses 1
• Up-front payment of eligible medical expenses whenever possible
• 24-hour, multilingual emergency medical assistance—one toll-free phone call puts you in touch with a multilingual professional who will refer you to a local doctor or facility in order for you to receive the care you need

Government health insurance plans also don't provide coverage for situations such as lost, damaged or delayed baggage or trip cancellation and interruption. Our travel insurance can provide these coverages and more.

Yes, you do need travel insurance to protect yourself against the unexpected, even if you are going to the United States for a few days. An illness or accident can happen at any time, whether you're on the road for a few days, or a few months. And remember, the cost of health care is very expensive in the United States and very little of this cost would be covered by your government health insurance plan, credit card or company benefits plan. For a short trip, the cost of travel insurance is minimal, and it gives you the protection you need.

If you purchase trip cancellation and interruption insurance, it will help pay for your expenses to return home in the event of a covered emergency. There are a number of circumstances that qualify as an emergency (for example, the death or serious illness of a family member). The cost of cancelling a trip prior to departure can be very expensive, as most trips are non-refundable and/or non-transferable, especially if you have to cancel just before leaving on your trip. Having to return early from a trip can also be very expensive. Either way, trip cancellation and interruption insurance is very important to protect your travel investment.

You must purchase coverage before departing on your trip. You may benefit from purchasing coverage as soon as you make your initial trip deposit, especially if you are purchasing trip cancellation and interruption insurance —either as stand-alone coverage or as part of one of our insurance packages .

If you were to book your trip 6 months in advance, consider the unexpected situations that could occur in that time.

If you purchase travel insurance from RBC Insurance, we will pay the eligible bills directly to the hospital or physician whenever possible.

There are a number of sports that are not covered during your trip. For more details, see the Exclusions section of the individual policy document.

You may purchase a top-up policy for the extra number of days beyond the duration covered by your multi-trip annual plan. Here are the conditions:

• After your effective date and if you have had a medical condition during your trip, you must contact Allianz Global Assistance before your original policy’s expiry date to request approval for and purchase top-up coverage.

Please see the policy document for complete coverage details regarding top-up coverage.

If you purchase one of our travel medical insurance plans—either Classic Medical or TravelCare ® Medical—you can, subject to certain conditions:

• If you are travelling for more than 183 days, you may purchase single trip coverage for up to 365 days provided that you are covered under your government health plan for the full duration of your trip.
• If you are 40-74 years of age , you must also answer a few health questions, which will determine whether you are eligible to purchase coverage for trips beyond 183 days.

Yes, if you are travelling with your spouse/partner and children or other family members, you could save money with our family plan pricing.

The cost of a trip can be a significant financial investment. A lot can also happen in the time between booking your trip and departing—if a medical emergency or other unexpected event prevents you from going on your trip, you could potentially lose some (or possibly all) of the money you paid.

With trip cancellation and interruption insurance, you're protected when certain situations prevent you from travelling as planned. Examples include:

• You can't travel due to an illness, job loss or immediate family member's medical emergency
• You need to return home earlier than scheduled because of a family emergency or medical condition

Note : We strongly recommend that you purchase trip cancellation and interruption insurance at the time you pay your initial travel deposit. Please see the policy document for complete coverage details, including terms and conditions.

Yes! Tell them about our Visitors to Canada Plans , which offer affordable emergency medical protection to visitors, immigrants, foreign students and Canadians without government health plan coverage.

We strongly recommend you do. Your insurance policy is a valuable source of information and contains provisions that may limit or exclude coverage. Please read it before you go, keep it in a safe place and carry it with you when you travel.

RBC Insurance has appointed AZGA Service Canada Inc. (operating as “Allianz Global Assistance”) as the provider of all assistance and claims.

Whether you have a new claim or questions about an existing claim, representatives will work with you to make things as easy as possible. Visit the Travel Insurance Claims page for more details about how to submit a claim.

It's our goal to settle every claim as quickly as possible. While every claim is different, there are things you can do to speed things up:

• If you require emergency care on your trip , call our emergency contact number immediately, or at the earliest possible opportunity (someone else can call if you're unable to). If you do not, your coverage may be limited and your benefits could be reduced.
• If you need to cancel your trip prior to departing , call your travel agency, airline, tour company or the carrier immediately to cancel your trip no later than one business day after the cause of cancellation. Call Allianz Global Assistance the same day.
• For all claims , carefully read the instructions for submitting your claim. Make sure you fully complete any required claims forms and submit all required documentation at your earliest possible convenience. For example, you may need to provide information on your past health history if you are submitting an emergency medical claim or a trip cancellation claim due to a medical condition.

The documentation you need to provide will depend on the type of claim, the type of plan you purchased and the province/territory in which you live. Visit the Travel Insurance Claims page for more details about how to submit a claim.

No matter where in the world you are, we’ll be here for you. If you have an emergency, you can call Allianz Global Assistance toll-free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-855-947-1581 from the U.S. and Canada or (905) 816-2561 collect from anywhere in the world . Or as an alternative, you can email Allianz Global Assistance at: [email protected] . Disclaimer 3

The multilingual representatives of Allianz Global Assistance are ready 24 hours a day, seven days a week when you have a medical emergency. You can rely on them to refer you or (when medically appropriate) transfer you to one of the accredited medical service providers within the Allianz Global Assistance network, so you can receive the care you need as quickly as possible.

Because the representatives are multilingual and have 24-hour access to real-time translation services, they can provide the help you need in your own language—and also have someone to communicate on your behalf with medical personnel who may speak a different language.

Whenever possible, Allianz Global Assistance will also request for the medical service provider within the network to bill the covered medical expenses directly to us instead of you—reducing stress and hassle.

Yes, as soon as medically possible. There are several reasons to call the emergency contact number first:

The multilingual representatives of Allianz Global Assistance are experienced experts in coordinating emergency care for travellers in foreign lands.

They're available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you don't call Allianz Global Assistance first, your benefits may be reduced and your coverage may be limited. As stated in your policy, if you do not contact Allianz Global Assistance at the time of your medical emergency or you choose to receive treatment from a medical service provider outside the Allianz Global Assistance network, you will be responsible for 30% of your medical expenses covered under your insurance and in excess of your medical expenses paid by your government health plan.

You can call Allianz Global Assistance toll-free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-855-947-1581 from the U.S. and Canada or (905) 816-2561 collect from anywhere in the world.

Of course, obtaining urgent care in an emergency is your #1 priority—and our representatives are here to help at our toll-free emergency contact number. However, if your medical condition Opens in new window prevents you from calling before seeking emergency treatment, then you must call as soon as medically possible.

Someone else (a family member, friend, hospital or physician's office staff, etc.) may call on your behalf–so it's a very good idea to carry your RBC Insurance travel insurance wallet card with you at all times.

They may call Allianz Global Assistance toll-free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-855-947-1581 from the U.S. and Canada or (905) 816-2561 collect from anywhere in the world.

Or as an alternative, they can email3 Allianz Global Assistance at: [email protected] .

We will pay your eligible medical bills directly to the medical provider or hospital for you whenever possible.

Travel together. Save together.

Travelling with a group of 10 or more? Save with a group discount and enjoy all the benefits of RBC ® Travel Insurance.

Reasons to Love RBC Travel Insurance

Coverage available for all ages.

If you are travelling with your spouse/partner and children or other family members, you could save money with our family plan pricing.

Simplified Medical Questionnaire

Age 65 or over? Buying travel insurance is faster than ever – no long, complicated medical questionnaires.

Variety of Coverages

Whether you’re going on an overseas adventure, or a quick jaunt to another province or state for the weekend, a variety of packages and plans are available to cover your travels.

24/7 Worldwide Emergency Medical Assistance

Experienced staff at the 24/7 assistance centre will provide:

• Caring, multilingual support
• Help finding local medical care
• Access to emergency air ambulances
• Access to expert medical professionals who will monitor your care
• Help with transportation to the nearest medical facility

For emergency medical and travel assistance

• See Emergency Contact Details

For questions about travel insurance or claims

• Speak to a Travel Advisor at 1-866-896-8172
• Get a Quote

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Take off with Canada’s #1 travel insurance provider

Enjoy the confidence and peace of mind with Blue Cross when exploring Canada or around the world

#1 in Travel Insurance

Out-of-province emergency medical expenses are not generally covered by your provincial medical plan and these expenses can be financially overwhelming.

For millions of Canadians, comprehensive emergency travel coverage offered by Blue Cross has become an essential part of their holiday plans.

As a recognized symbol of health care globally, being trusted, professional and familiar is what you need in your coverage provider when travelling out of province.

Travel Worry Free

Let Blue Cross travel coverage take care of any unexpected medical emergency costs so you can make the most of your trip.

Whether you travel frequently during the year, take regular sun destination trips or do only occasional short trips, there is a plan that’s right for you.

Blue Cross is a member of a trusted global network, including the American Blue Cross & Blue Shield Association and the International Federation of Health Funds.

Canadians are optimistic about travel in 2024

The cost of travel is on the rise, but that isn’t stopping most Canadians from planning a vacation.

A ccording to a new study from Blue Cross , Canadians spent an average of $4,200 on their last vacation, and 94 per cent feel the cost of travelling is increasing .

H owever , the 2024 Blue Cross Travel Study also reveals that more Canadians are feeling optimistic about travel and are planning more trips this year.   

Find the Right Plan

We understand making the right choice for your benefits and coverage is important.

We’re here to help!

Please click below to be redirected to your local Blue Cross for more specifics, including local contact information.

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Choose your region

By Lisa Jackson

Best travel insurance in Canada

Day Of Victory Studio / Shutterstock

You’ve packed your bags, mapped your itinerary, and set your “out of office” message – it’s vacation time! But what about travel insurance?

According to a 2024 study by Pacific Blue Cross ,  a British Columbia health benefits provider, 87% of Canadians recognize the risks of travelling without insurance, while 57% purchase a policy at least occasionally. However, younger generations remain rather hesitant about the need for this coverage when travelling abroad. Nearly half of Gen Z travellers (47%) who never purchase insurance say it is because they don't think anything anything bad will happen when vacationing. They also underestimate the actual cost of emergency medical care more than any other generational cohort. 

As a professional travel writer, I find this rather alarming. Canadian health insurance is not valid outside Canada, and your provincial or territorial health plan may not cover all the costs even if you’re travelling domestically. If you suffer an accident or get sick abroad, unexpected medical bills can bankrupt you. It’s why the Canadian government advises all travellers to buy travel insurance, and I never leave the country without it. Whether you’re taking a two-week trip or a spending a year abroad, every one needs the best travel insurance offered to Canadians, regardless of age, health status, destination or length of vacation.

Best for thrill seekers: World Nomads

Designed for adrenaline lovers with wanderlust, World Nomads insures a long list of adventure sports, activities and volunteer or work experiences, as well as sporting equipment delay/loss/theft. You also get access to a 24/7 hotline that provides information that adventure travellers may need including weather reports and travel advisories, assistance locating the nearest trail and finding a gear shop.

The standard policy covers emergency medical expenses up to $5 million, emergency dental, trip cancellation/interruption/delay, baggage delays/theft/damage and more. The downside: You must be under 66 years of age to qualify.

Best for families: CAA Travel Insurance

A long-trusted Canadian institution, CAA travel Insurance offers flexible travel plans to suit every type of traveller and vacation, but its policies are particularly great for families. The stand-alone emergency medical policy of up to $5 million in health coverage is extremely comprehensive, even including medical repatriation, emergency dental and reimbursements for pet care and kennelling.

The Vacation Package Plan provides full cancellation/interruption insurance – ideal for prepaid, all-inclusive vacation packages – and family transportation and escort of children during emergencies. Anyone can buy CAA travel insurance but members get a 10% discount.

CAA’s emergency medical plans also now include coverage for COVID-19-related illnesses for vaccinated customers. Coverage is up to $2.5 million if partially vaccinated and up to $5 million if fully vaccinated.

Best for seniors and retirees: Blue Cross

Blue Cross has been around for more than 70 years, and 1 in 4 Canadians utilize its travel insurance. The company's emergency medical covers up to $5 million. It has special “snowbird” travel insurance packages designed for Canadians who head to warmer climates each year, making Blue Cross ideal for retirees.

Part of the package is the Flight Delay Service, a free perk that provides a range of benefits if including exclusive coupons for access to lounges or hotels (depending on the length of the delay). Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered.

Best for budget travellers: Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance

Starting at only $1.36 a day, Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance offers very affordable travel insurance packages. Yes, it’s geared toward students (e.g., you can swap your travel dates at no charge due to an exam schedule conflict), but anyone between 15 and 50 years of age can purchase a policy.

The standard package includes hospital and medical up to $1 million, dental care, air ambulance evacuation, flight accident, accidental death or dismemberment and trip interruption/cancellation insurance. Adventure and extreme sports are also covered.

Best for Canadians with pre-existing medical conditions: Manulife CoverMe

Manulife CoverMe offers highly comprehensive Canadian travel insurance packages and You access to the TravelAid mobile app, which provides directions to the nearest medical facility and local emergency telephone numbers.

However, the stand-out feature is arguably TravelEase – a special policy designed to cover fully disclosed medical conditions. For travellers with pre-existing conditions, it insures a bunch of expenses for health services and transportation. It provides up to $10 million in emergency medical benefits – a unicorn in the travel insurance world.

Best for emergency medical assistance: Medipac Travel Insurance

Medipac is one of the only travel insurance companies out there that is staffed by their own team of trained medical professionals, via its Medipac Assistance hotline. The company's medical professionals are your first point of contact in an emergency medical situation. This service is also helpful for dealing with foreign medical systems and helping prevent unnecessary expenses when dealing with a large deductible.

Medipac offers several competitive features for their travel insurance plans, including no age limits, a claim-free discount and a 90-day stability period for most pre-existing conditions. If your pre-existing medical condition isn’t covered by a standard Medipac insurance plan, the company also offers personalized, underwritten insurance policies to help you meet your needs.

Medipac provides coverage for up to $5 million USD, including COVID-19, in addition to its other benefits. Additionally, most new clients may be able to save 3-5% in their first year with the company's Claim-free Advantage discount.

Best for frequent travellers: Allianz Travel Insurance

Touted as a world leader in the Canadian travel insurance and assistance industry, Allianz Travel Insurance is a major provider of travel insurance, corporate assistance, and concierge services. It seeks to help its customers find solutions to various travel-related problems. Allianz Travel has partnered with many reputable companies, including travel agencies, airlines, resorts, websites, event ticket brokers, corporations, universities and credit card companies.

Allianz Travel Insurance is a great choice for anyone looking for travel insurance. Its single-trip plans are perfect for those leaving home and visiting another destination (or destinations) before going back home. Its parent company, Allianz Global Assistance, has five plans to choose from, all offering different levels of protection and coverage.

Allianz Travel Insurance’s annual/multi-trip plans are perfect for both personal and professional travelers who take multiple trips in a year. It offers four distinct options to choose from.

Will my provincial insurance be valid overseas?

No! If you get sick or injured overseas, the Canadian government will not cough up a dime to cover your medical costs. Here are the sobering facts:

• Canadian public health insurance is not valid outside of Canada.
• Foreign hospitals can be extremely expensive and may demand payment before treating you.
• The Canadian government will not pay a Canadian’s medical bills for an illness or accident suffered abroad. You’re on the hook for footing the bill!

Will my provincial insurance work in another province/territory?

Flash your valid provincial health card in another part of Canada and you’ll likely be covered for some of the same services insured by your home provincial plan. This is because the provinces and territories (except Quebec) signed an agreement whereby the host province foots the bill for any medically necessary health care services and gets reimbursed by the home province later.

However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of the woods. Depending on your destination, a slew of other services may not be covered such as an ambulance, hospital transfer, prescription drugs, transportation back to your home province and procedures not currently approved by your home plan.

Additionally, since Quebec wasn’t a signatory to the interprovincial billing agreement, you’ll likely be charged for any medical bills incurred there. For this reason, it’s recommended that you buy extra travel insurance (or verify your  credit card’s travel insurance coverage ) to cover any uninsured health care services that may crop up during your trip.

What does the best travel insurance in Canada cover?

Every travel insurance policy is different and what’s covered depends on how much you’re willing to pay for coverage. Typical medical services that you can expect to be covered include:

• Emergency hospital and medical costs
• Ambulance and air ambulance costs
• Outpatient services
• Physician and laboratory costs
• Prescription drugs
• Direct payment to the hospitals and doctors caring for you
• Assistance with bringing a family member to your bedside
• Air ambulance or commercial repatriation home
• Return of your vehicle if you are ill and have to come home

Additional benefits may include:

• Trip cancellation for non-refundable monetary losses
• Trip interruption
• Baggage loss, rental car damage, out-of-pocket expenses
• Accidental death and dismemberment

How much coverage do I need?

Securing a policy with a $1 million as a maximum payable is a safe bet. But don’t just look at the numbers when choosing a policy – read the fine print. Every insurer has a list of situations in which coverage is not provided, otherwise known as “exclusions.” Check whether your provider includes coverage or has provisions for the following:

• Pre-existing medical conditions: According to the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers, a pre-existing condition is “something that happened (or started to happen) before you were insured.” Some policies may cover claims relating to pre-existing conditions that are “stable and controlled,” but read the definitions carefully. If you don’t declare a condition, the entire policy could be invalidated!
• Medical evacuation: Ensure the policy covers medical evacuation to the nearest hospital and/or to Canada, as well as the costs of a medical escort to accompany you to your final destination.
• Repatriation in case of death: On the grim side, ensure that your plan covers the preparation and return of your remains to Canada.
• Adventurous Activities: If you plan on engaging in “high-risk” activities on your trip, you may need to shell out extra money for a more comprehensive plan. Many policies don’t cover “risky” activities, such as skiing or snowboarding “out of bounds,” skydiving, scuba diving, white-water rafting, mountaineering or participation in any rodeo activity. To cover your bases, ask questions and get specifics before purchasing a policy.

You may have to pay more to have these things included, but a few extra bucks may be worth it for peace of mind.

Should I buy “a la carte” travel insurance or get a travel credit card with free insurance?

A credit card with travel insurance is always a good thing to carry in your wallet. The  best travel credit cards in Canada  usually cover everything from emergency medical costs to trip cancellation/interruption to flight delay to rental car insurance, which could save you a wad of cash.

The  Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card  has saved my butt a few times, and I’ve filed several travel-related claims through my card. I cancelled my trip to Portugal a few years ago due to a death in the family, and I got a full refund on my hotel deposit and flights for myself, my husband and my baby. It totally justified the $120 annual fee.

That being said, don’t rely on your credit card to take care of all your travel insurance needs. It usually includes a basic policy, meaning it offers low (or no!) travel medical insurance as part of the package. Like any travel insurance company policy, you’ve really got to read the fine print and understand the conditions of your policy to avoid sticky situations.

For instance, the Scotiabank Gold American Express ® Card requires a cardholder to have charged at least 75% of trip expenses to make a trip cancellation/interruption insurance claim. So if you book an all-inclusive vacation for $5,000 and then cancel due to illness, at least $3,750 must have been charged onto your AMEX to qualify for a claim. If you didn’t do that, you’re out of luck.

Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more. *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.

Can I still purchase insurance if i’ve already started my vacation?

The short answer: most insurance providers won’t cover you after your departure date. However, a handful of insurers (such as World Nomads) will allow you to purchase a policy while already overseas. Just know that it can come with sky-high costs and/or conditions: World Nomads has a 48-hour waiting period before coverage kicks in. The bottom line? It’s always best to buy travel insurance before leaving the country.

Can I get travel insurance for part of a trip?

Some plans offer insurance coverage options that will allow you to customize your coverage, but you’ll have to research to find one that works for your unique circumstances. Alternatively, you could take out an insurance policy for each destination and/or segment of your trip.

For instance, you could get a World Nomads policy for the two weeks you’re scuba diving in Australia, followed by a basic Travel CUTS Bon Voyage insurance to cover a month-long trip to Europe. However, when you buy Canadian travel insurance, you must select a trip start and end date – meaning you must know the exact dates for travelling to those places.

Should I carry a printout of my policy with me at all times?

I recommend carrying the travel insurance card in your wallet and locking it up in the hotel safe with other important travel documents like your passport. But don’t rely totally on paper: Wallets get lost or stolen, luggage can be delayed or M.I.A. and papers are easy to misplace when you’re on the road. My advice is to send a copy of the policy to your email and save it on your iCloud or another storage system that can be accessed anywhere, anytime.

Recommended reads

• What’s the Added Value of a Credit Card with Travel Insurance?
• The Best Travel Rewards Programs in Canada
• Aeroplan vs. AIR MILES vs. Avio n

Lisa Jackson is a freelance personal finance and travel journalist, editor, and blogger who contributes to various online and print media outlets in Canada and abroad, including The Globe & Mail, Toronto Star, Islands Magazine, Fodors, BRIDES, Huffington Post Canada, CAA Magazine, The Food Network, West Jet Magazine, NUVO Magazine, and many others. When she's not writing from her home office, she's busy globe-trotting to new destinations in search of her next story.

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Manulife CoverMe ® Travel Insurance for Travelling Canadians

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Spend a little to save a lot in case of an emergency with Manulife travel insurance

When you’re travelling, unexpected expenses can result in a hefty bill on top of what you already paid for your trip. Travel insurance for Canadians can:

• Help pay for emergency health expenses if you were to get sick, fall and be sent to a foreign hospital
• Take your mind off “what ifs” and the financial consequences of flight delays or cancellations, misconnections, baggage issues, and more
• Minimize loss of non-refundable travel expenses when you must cancel for a covered reason, such as visa delays, or if a loved one gets sick and needs your care

Manulife travel plans for travelling Canadians

Single trip plans help protect you for one trip, either just for yourself or for your family. You can get these whenever you travel out-of-province or country.

Emergency medical plans

When you travel out of the country, you are responsible for all health-related expenses that could arise. Medical plans help you cover health care expenses such as physician services, ambulances, semi-private hospital accommodations, diagnostic tests, and more.

Single-Trip Emergency Medical

This plan helps protect you from emergency medical costs during one trip for the number of days you'll be away.

• Up to $10 million in emergency medical coverage, including COVID 19 related emergency medical costs*
• Save 50% when your travel is within Canada

Single-Trip TravelEase TM

This plan helps protect you from emergency medical costs, even if those costs are associated with a pre-existing medical condition.

• Medical underwriting required to cover pre-existing medical conditions

COVID-19 Pandemic Plan

This plan can help protect you even if the travel advisory for your destination changes to "Avoid Non-Essential Travel" due to COVID-19.

• Up to $1 million for COVID-19 related emergency medical costs (up to $5 million if vaccinated)
• Up to $5 million for non-COVID-19 related emergency medical coverage

Download a comparison chart for medical plans (opens PDF)

Non-medical plans

Life happens, and even the most carefully planned trip can still be negatively affected by circumstances outside of your control. We offer a range of protections for your trip, which can help you travel securely knowing that your prepaid travel costs are protected from cancellations, interruptions, baggage loss, and even changed plans.

Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption

Helps cover non-refundable trip costs if you need to cancel, return early, or stay longer than planned due to a covered event.

• Select trip cancellation coverage amount based on your pre-booked trip expenses
• Select either $800, $1,500 or unlimited coverage to bring you home early due to a medical emergency or other covered events
• Up to $1,700 for misconnection and up to $1,500 for delay return coverage

Non-Medical All-Inclusive

Includes all benefits from the trip cancellation & interruption plan, and more.

• Unlimited trip interruption coverage for early return due to a medical emergency or other covered event
• Up to $2,700 for misconnection and up to $3,500 for delay return coverage
• Includes up to $1,500 coverage for baggage issues, $100,000 for flight accident, $50,000 for travel accident, and more

Download a comparison chart for non-medical plans (opens PDF)

All-inclusive plans

These comprehensive plans help protect you and your trip from the costs of unforeseen events and medical emergencies, so you can set out knowing that you’re prepared, and that we’re here to help in the event of the unexpected. 

Single-Trip All-Inclusive

The best of both worlds – this comprehensive plan protects you from both emergency health costs and unexpected travel costs.

• Unlimited trip interruption coverage to bring you home early due to a medical emergency or other covered events

Youth All-Inclusive

A discounted all-inclusive plan for travelers 29 and under.

• Up to $1 million in emergency medical coverage, including COVID 19 related emergency medical costs*
• Select trip cancellation coverage amount, up to $5,000 
• Economy flight to bring you home early due to a medical emergency or other covered events
• Same-class flight and up to $300 for accommodation and meals for misconnection and travel disruption coverage
• Includes up to $500 coverage for baggage issues, $25,000 for flight accident, $10,000 for travel accident, and more

Youth Deluxe All-Inclusive

A more comprehensive version of the youth all-inclusive plan, available at a discounted rate for travelers 29 and under.

• Up to $5 million in emergency medical coverage, including COVID 19 related emergency medical costs*
• Select trip cancellation coverage amount, up to $10,000
• Same-class flight and up to $1,300 for accommodation and meals for misconnection and travel disruption
• Includes up to $1,000 coverage for baggage issues, $100,000 for flight accident, $50,000 for travel accident, and more

Download a comparison chart for all-inclusive plans (opens PDF)

*This plan will cease to provide coverage for COVID-19 related emergency medical costs if the government changes the travel advisory to "Avoid Non-Essential Travel" for your travel destination due to COVID-19. 

For the seasoned traveler, these plans help protect you for unlimited trips within the year. They offer versatile and comprehensive protection that goes with you whenever — and wherever — you travel.

Multi-Trip Emergency Medical

Have more than one trip planned for the year? This plan helps protect you from emergency health costs for multiple trips in a year.

• Get covered for unlimited number of days when travelling within Canada
• Protects unlimited trips per year

Multi-Trip TravelEase TM

This plan helps protect you from emergency medical costs for multiple trips a year, including pre-existing conditions approved through medical underwriting.

Multi-Trip All-Inclusive

Comprehensive protection that covers emergency medical and unexpected travel expenses.

• Up to $1,500 or $2,500 per trip for trip cancellation, to a maximum of $10,000 per year
• Up to $2,700 for misconnection and up to $3,500 for delay return coverage per trip
• Includes up to $2,000 coverage for baggage issues, $100,000 for flight accident and $50,000 for travel accident insurance per trip, and more

Download a detailed comparison chart for multi-trip plans (opens PDF)

Have existing coverages through work or credit card? Did you know that these policies only protect you up to a certain number of days which might not be enough to protect you for the entire trip? You can top up your existing coverage to the full duration of your trip with the plan below. 

Emergency Medical Top-up

Top up your existing credit card coverage or multi-trip plan from Manulife or another insurer.

• Up to $10 million in emergency medical coverage
• Includes coverage for COVID-19 related expenses

Why Manulife?

As a top travel insurance provider, all our plans for travelling Canadians come with the following benefits:

• Access to Manulife’s Travel Assistance 24/7 – 365 days a year – wherever you are in the world
• Full refund for medical plans before your effective date if you change your mind
• 50% off when you travel within Canada for select plans

Ready to buy?

You can get a quote and purchase Manulife travel insurance online through Manulife CoverMe.

The cost of travel insurance for Canadian seniors varies depending on age, coverage level, duration and if you want coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, among other features and protections such as trip cancellation, trip interruption, and baggage loss. 

Typically, travel insurance for Canadian snowbirds requires longer duration coverage than other types of trips, since snowbirds tends to stay down south in the USA for longer periods to escape the Canadian cold. The best travel insurance plans for snowbirds offer flexibility for easy extension and comprehensive emergency health coverage. Manulife offers Canadian seniors and snowbirds the flexibility to easily extend their coverage if needed, and our medical plans for vaccinated travellers all contain up to $10 million in medical coverage. If snowbirds are travelling to the USA multiple times a year, they can also consider purchasing a multi-trip plan to cover all their trips within one year. 

Need assistance?

Want to talk through your options.

Have questions and want to speak to a licensed insurance advisor? We can help with that!

Submit a travel claim

Visit our dedicated travel portal to start a claim. First-time on the site? Simply register, activate your account, and sign in.

Explore other travel insurance products

Travel insurance for students.

Get help with medical expenses when studying away from home – either in Canada or abroad.

Travel Insurance for Visitors to Canada

Get affordable coverage for medical expenses while visiting Canada. Meets the requirements for the super visa.

Residents of BC and the Yukon

Single trip travel insurance.

• Medical and Hospital
• Trip Cancellation or Interruption
• Accidental Death
• Air Flight Accidents
• Emergency Return
• Baggage Loss, Delay or Damage
• Learn more about these benefits
• Do you already have PBC coverage?

Multiple Trip Travel Insurance

Buy one policy for the whole year and save!

Includes all benefits of the Single Trip plans, plus:

• Save time buying one plan for all trips in one year.
• Save money if you take two or more trips a year. Learn more...

Visitors to Canada

Visitors to canada travel insurance.

Emergency health coverage for tourists, workers, new immigrants and students. It includes:

• Hospital stays
• Doctors Bills and Prescription Drugs
• Ambulance Service
• Accidental Dental Care
• 24 Hour medical assistance hotline

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I pay by cheque?
• How do I make a claim?
• Who should I contact in an emergency?
• More FAQ's...

Information Centre

• Glossary of terms

Useful Links

• Consular Affairs Bureau
• Travel Advisory website
• Registration for Canadians abroad

Travel Insurance

Planning a trip.

Check out our travel plans before you go.

Save time and buy online. It's easy and secure.

PBC group plan members may be eligible to receive a discount off of the Travel Plan premium.

If you would like to talk with one of our representatives, please call:

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HelloSafe » Travel Insurance » BC

What are the Best Travel Insurance BC Plans in 2024?

• The most competitive offer on the market
• Fast and efficient submission process
• Multilingual emergency assistance services available 24/7

soNomad travel insurance offers emergency medical coverage up to $5,000,000, including COVID-19 at no extra cost, and baggage insurance up to $1,500, all with no deductible. It stands out for its competitive rates and excellent value for money, surpassing competitors like Allianz and Manulife, which are often more expensive for similar coverage. The cancel-for-any-reason program, subscribed within 7 days of booking, provides additional security. Ideal for all travelers, including those with pre-existing medical conditions.

• Higher rates for the greatest coverage offered on the market
• Allianz offers are very comprehensive

Allianz travel insurance offers emergency medical coverage up to $5,000,000, including COVID-19 protection at no extra cost, and baggage insurance up to $1,000. Although its rates are higher, Allianz stands out for the quality and breadth of its coverage. Compared to soNomad and TuGo, Allianz offers a very comprehensive package but at a higher cost, making it an ideal choice for those seeking maximum and uncompromising coverage.

• Interesting formulas for trips lasting up to one month
• Important coverage
• Adapted to your basic needs

Manulife travel insurance offers a "COVID-19 Pandemic Travel Insurance Plan" providing emergency medical coverage up to $1,000,000 for COVID-19 related health issues, increased to $5,000,000 for fully vaccinated individuals. In case of unforeseen quarantine, it covers up to $200 per day per person (maximum $2,800) and $400 per day per family (maximum $5,600). Compared to other plans, Manulife stands out for its extensive coverage and specific quarantine benefits, offering increased security for vaccinated travelers.

Travelling is an exhilarating experience, filled with new adventures and discoveries. However, unforeseen events can disrupt even the most meticulously planned trips.

To safeguard against these uncertainties, travel insurance becomes essential for any traveller, including residents of British Columbia. But how do you choose the best travel insurance BC policy that's right for you?

In this guide, we look at the best travel insurance BC plans, what they cover, how much they cost, and more. You can use the HelloSafe comparator to compare plans from various providers and also get free quotes in seconds , so you can pick a policy that truly suits your individual needs.

Best BC Travel Insurance Plans

• SoNomad travel insurance : "Versatile coverage options"
• Allianz travel insurance : "Global assurance for your journey"
• TuGo travel insurance : "Adventure and all-inclusive choices"
• Desjardins travel insurance : "Reputable brand coverage"
• Manulife travel insurance : "Comprehensive protection for all travels"
• Sun Life travel insurance : "Flexible options for all types of travel"
• Blue Cross travel insurance : "Established provider with various plans"
• Medoc travel insurance : "Focus on emergency medical benefits"
• BCAA travel insurance : "Tailored coverage for BC explorers"

Top BC travel insurance plans in 2024

In general, the best travel insurance option depends on your specific needs, such as the type of trip, the level of coverage required and any pre-existing medical conditions. We compared plans from different companies and considered factors like reputation, coverage scope and pricing to help you choose the best option for your travel needs. Here are our top 9 picks for travel insurance for BC residents:

SoNomad travel insurance: Versatile coverage options

SoNomad travel insurance in Canada covers a wide range of expenses, including emergency medical expenses trip cancellation or interruption expenses, baggage loss or damage, personal liability coverage, trip delay insurance, emergency medical transportation, COVID-19-related expenses, such as medical treatment, quarantine and transportation.

SoNomad travel insurance is ideal for Canadian residents who are travelling outside of Canada or Canadian residents who are travelling within Canada, but who do not have a provincial health insurance plan. It’s also a good option for people who are travelling to countries with high medical costs.

• Competitive prices
• Easy to purchase and claim
• Covers a wide range of expenses
• Includes COVID-19-related expenses
• Some plans have high deductibles
• There may be exclusions for certain pre-existing conditions
• The policy may not cover all types of travel, such as adventure travel or cruises

If you would like to explore further and get a SoNomad travel insurance BC quote that is personalized to meet your unique needs, you can do so below and get results in a few moments.

Allianz travel insurance: Global assurance for your journey

Allianz travel insurance is a leading provider in Canada. With a strong international presence, Allianz can help travellers overcome language barriers and get quality medical care wherever they are.

Allianz Travel Insurance Canada offers a variety of coverage plans to fit any travel itinerary. The coverage per travel package is comprehensive and includes medical interventions, car rental protection and travel interruptions.

• Variety of plans to choose from, depending on your budget and travel needs
• Free coverage for dependent children under 17 years old
• Extensive coverage for long trips
• Easy access to customer service for assistance
• Lower coverage limits than some competitors
• Adventure and extreme sports activities not included

If you would like to explore further and get an Allianz travel insurance BC quote that is personalized to meet your unique needs, you can do so below and get results in a few moments.

TuGo travel insurance: Adventure and all-inclusive choices

TuGo is a Canadian travel insurance provider that offers a variety of plans to suit different needs and budgets. It offers emergency medical coverage of up to $10 million, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, adventure sports and more. TuGo travel insurance also offers the Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) upgrade, which allows you to cancel your trip for any reason and receive a full refund.

TuGo is a good option for snowbirds or frequent young travellers who also seek adventure activities. However, its all-inclusive plans are only available for those aged 59 years and under, making it not the best choice for older adults.

• TuGo travel insurance covers a wide range of expenses including rental car damage
• Offers emergency medical coverage, including doctor's visits, hospital stays and ambulance rides
• Has multi-trip plans for frequent travellers
• Can be purchased easily — online or through their customer service representatives
• Premiums can be higher than some other providers
• May not cover pre-existing medical conditions, depending on the severity of the condition
• Some customers reported delays or difficulties in processing claims
• The all-inclusive TuGo travel insurance plan has an age limit of 59
• People above 59 may need to purchase a different plan or provide a medical questionnaire

If you would like to explore further and get a TuGo travel insurance BC quote that is personalized to meet your unique needs, you can do so below and get results in a few moments.

Desjardins travel insurance: Reputable brand coverage

Desjardins is Canada's largest cooperative financial institution, with over 7.5 million members, mostly in Quebec and Ontario. It was founded in 1900 in Lévis, Quebec. Desjardins travel health insurance is therefore provided by a reputable company with a trusted history.

Its coverage includes a range of travel-related risks, such as emergencies like accidents, health, evacuations, trip cancellations, delays and more.

• Well-established and reputable company with a long history of providing financial services
• Desjardins members can get 3 days of complimentary coverage
• Free insurance on some credit cards
• Easy-to-use website and 24/7 customer service
• Penalty for not contacting assistance service
• Some advantages only for Desjardins members
• No online chatbox

Before you decide if Desjardins is the right pick for you, compare coverages, and the pros and cons of Canada's best travel insurance plans right here. You can use our HelloSafe comparator below and compare plans from the best providers and also get free quotes in no time.

Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!

Manulife travel insurance: Comprehensive protection for all travels

Manulife travel insurance in Canada covers a wide range of expenses, including emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption expenses, baggage loss or damage, personal liability coverage, trip delay insurance and emergency medical transportation.

Manulife travel insurance is ideal for anyone who is travelling outside of Canada, whether for business or pleasure. It is also a good option for people who are travelling within Canada, but who do not have a provincial health insurance plan.

• Wide range of coverage

If you would like to explore further and get a Manulife travel insurance BC quote that is personalized to meet your unique needs, you can do so below and get results in a few moments.

Sun Life travel insurance: Flexible options for all types of travel

Sun Life is a well-regarded insurance company hailing from Canada, recognized for its assortment of insurance offerings, which encompass travel insurance as well. Its coverage encompasses emergency medical costs, trip cancellations, interruptions, loss of baggage and insurance against accidents during travel.

Families, individuals and groups of travellers alike will find appeal in its manifold coverage choices and a purchase process that is refreshingly unambiguous. Elderly individuals seeking travel insurance might find it relatively pricey due to the escalations in premiums that come with advancing age.

• An extensive array of coverage alternatives
• Provides robust coverage for exigent medical expenditures
• Simple and easy travel insurance process, catering to individuals, families and even groups embarking on journeys
• More exclusions and constraints compared to competing providers
• Might not extend coverage to pre-existing medical conditions, or the coverage for such conditions could be confined
• The claims process could prove cumbersome, potentially demanding substantial documentation from travellers

Blue Cross travel insurance: Established provider with various plans

Blue Cross travel insurance provides a range of coverage options including emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss and more. They offer various plans tailored to different types of travellers, such as individual, family, or senior travellers.

It offers courage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss, accidental death and dismemberment and travel assistance services. However, pre-existing medical conditions in some cases, risky activities and certain trip cancellation reasons are not covered.

• A well-known and established insurance provider with a strong reputation
• Caters to various types of travellers and offers comprehensive coverage options
• Offers flexibility in plans
• Limited coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Certain exclusions in cancellation coverage

MEDOC travel insurance: Focus on emergency medical benefits

If your primary concern is medical coverage while travelling, MEDOC specializes in offering comprehensive emergency medical benefits. Medoc travel insurance focuses on emergency medical coverage for travellers. It provides coverage for medical emergencies, evacuation and certain non-medical benefits.

While it offers great coverage options, it doesn’t cover pre-existing medical conditions, some adventure sports and certain non-medical trip interruptions.

• Strong emergency medical coverage
• Simple plans tailored to medical needs
• Limited coverage for non-medical aspects
• Pre-existing condition limitations

BCAA travel insurance: Tailored coverage for BC explorers

BCAA is a well-regarded insurance provider in BC, offering a range of coverage options for different types of travellers.

It offers various plans including emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage protection, accidental death and dismemberment and more. Its exclusions include pre-existing conditions, certain risky activities and non-medical trip interruptions.

• Established provider
• Multiple coverage options
• Some plans cover pre-existing conditions
• Limited coverage for pre-existing conditions in some plans
• Exclusions for risky activities

How much does travel insurance BC cost?

The cost of travel insurance in BC will vary depending on the company you choose, the type of coverage you need and your age and health. However, here is a general overview of the cost of travel insurance (for a 27-year-old BC resident travelling to India) from some of the top companies in BC:

Please note that these are just estimated prices for an all-inclusive package with a trip value of $1,000.00. The actual cost of travel insurance will vary depending on the factors mentioned above. It is important to get quotes from multiple companies before you buy a travel insurance policy. Here are some things to keep in mind when comparing travel insurance quotes:

• The level of coverage
• The deductible
• The maximum benefit
• The waiting period
• The exclusions

We recommend that you compare pricing, coverage, and exclusions from various policies before you decide upon one. All you need to do is simply use the HelloSafe comparator below and get free quotes tailormade to your unique needs, in just a few seconds.

What does travel insurance BC cover?

The coverage level for each of these travel insurance providers will vary depending on the specific plan you choose. However, here is a general overview of the coverage that is typically included:

These are just the maximum benefits for each coverage. The actual amount of coverage you receive will depend on the specific plan you choose.

What is travel trailer insurance BC plan?

Travel trailer insurance in BC is a type of insurance that covers your travel trailer against damage, theft and liability. It is similar to car insurance, but it is specifically designed for travel trailers.

Travel trailer insurance can be purchased through a variety of insurance companies, including ICBC, BCAA and Westland Insurance. The cost of insurance will vary depending on the make, model and value of your travel trailer, as well as your driving record and the level of coverage you choose.

The coverage that is typically included in travel trailer insurance includes:

• Physical damage: This coverage will pay for the cost of repairing or replacing your travel trailer if it is damaged in an accident, fire or other event.
• Theft: This coverage will pay for the cost of replacing your travel trailer if it is stolen.
• Liability: This coverage will pay for the cost of damages that you cause to other people or property while driving your travel trailer.
• Medical payments: This coverage will pay for the cost of medical expenses for people who are injured in an accident involving your travel trailer.
• Collision forgiveness: This coverage will waive your deductible if you are involved in an accident that is not your fault.
• Rental reimbursement: This coverage will pay for the cost of renting a replacement travel trailer if yours is damaged or stolen.

Do you need medical travel insurance in BC?

Yes, you need to purchase medical travel insurance if you are a British Columbian travelling outside of the province, even if you are only going to another part of Canada. This is because the British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP) does not cover medical expenses outside of the province.

There are many different travel insurance providers available, so it is important to compare plans before you buy. Some things to consider when comparing plans include:

• The level of coverage: Make sure the plan covers all of your medical expenses, including emergency hospitalization, doctor's visits and prescription drugs.
• The deductible: The deductible is the amount of money you will have to pay out of pocket before the insurance company starts paying.
• The maximum benefit: The maximum benefit is the total amount of money the insurance company will pay for your medical expenses.
• The waiting period: Some plans have a waiting period, which is the amount of time you have to wait before the insurance company starts paying for your medical expenses.
• The exclusions: Make sure you understand the exclusions, which are the types of medical expenses that are not covered by the plan.

Is there BC government employee travel insurance?

British Columbia government employees are eligible for group out-of-country and travel assistance coverage through Canada Life. This coverage includes:

• Emergency medical and dental services
• Emergency transportation
• Travel delay reimbursement
• Baggage loss or damage
• Trip cancellation or interruption

Employees can also purchase an optional emergency travel medical benefit, which provides additional coverage for medical expenses that occur during trips that begin and end in Canada. In addition to group coverage, BC government employees may also want to consider purchasing individual travel insurance. This can provide additional coverage for things like:

• Cancelling or postponing a trip due to a non-medical reason
• Lost or stolen passports or travel documents
• Trip interruption due to weather or other events
• Medical evacuation

If you'd like to explore policies that cover you beyond your government employee benefits or if you'd like to look for a policy with comprehensive coverage, you can do it right here. You can use the HelloSafe comparator below and get free personalised quotes from the best travel insurance providers.

5 tips to get cheap travel insurance BC plan

• Compare Quotes: Shop around and compare prices from different insurers. Use the HelloSafe comparator and get free quotes in seconds.
• Choose Basic Coverage: Opt for essential coverage that matches your trip needs.
• Travel Off-Peak: Plan your trip during less busy travel seasons for lower rates.
• Bundle with Existing Policies: Check if your existing insurance provider offers discounts for travel insurance.
• Increase Deductibles: Consider higher deductibles to lower premium costs.

Sunny has over six years of experience curating engaging content spanning across industries. Specifically in finance, his expertise is insurance reviews and lending and investment topics.

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Visitor to Canada Trip Plan

Our Visitors to Canada Travel plan provides protection against the high cost of emergency medical care for foreign visitors entering Canada

Before we start

Definitions, foreign workers and immigrants.

This insurance is available to foreign workers in Canada and to immigrants or persons who intend to file an application for immigrant status during their trip. For foreign workers, a valid proof of active work during the Period of coverage is required from the employer.

Foreign Students

This insurance is offered to foreign students in Canada. Registration as a full-time student in an educational institution is required during the Period of coverage.

Visitors To Canada

This insurance is offered to foreign persons visiting Canada.

Returning Canadians

This insurance is offered to returning Canadians that are not eligible for a government health insurance plan due to an extended leave.

• Visitor to Canada
• Foreign Student (49 and under)
• Landed Immigrant
• Foreign Worker
• Returning Canadian

Are you buying this coverage prior to or within 30 days of your arrival in Canada?

Policies may only be purchased prior to or within 30 days of arrival.

If you wish to extend your existing Visitor to Canada Coverage you must contact us directly.

For more information or to extend your existing plan, please contact us at 1 800 873-2583 or email us .

Who is Visiting?

Complete this section if you are travelling alone and selected "Visitor to Canada" above.

Complete this section if you are travelling alone and a Foreign Student.

Complete this section if you are travelling alone and a Landed Immigrant OR a Foreign Worker.

Complete this section if you are travelling with one or more family members and selected "Visitor to Canada" above.

What is an Adult?

Adult means a person who is:

• 19 years of age or older, and
• not applying as a dependent.

What is a Dependent?

A dependent is defined as the child of the applicant, the applicant spouse, or both, over 30 days old before departure date, who is dependent on the contract holder, who is not married, and who is:

• under 21 years of age or;
• under 25 years of age and attends an educational institution full-time as a duly registered student, or;
• with disabilities

For a disabled dependent, 21 years of age or older, please call us at 1 800 873-2583 or 604 419-2200 in the Lower Mainland to purchase coverage.

Complete this section if you are travelling with one or more family members and a Foreign Student

Complete this section if you are travelling with one or more family members and a Landed Immigrant OR a Foreign Worker

Discount Eligibility

If you have a Pacific Blue Cross Extended Health Care and/or Dental plan you may be eligible to receive a discount off of your Travel Insurance premium during our sales promotions. Simply enter your Promotion code or your friend or relative’s extended health or dental policy number and any applicable discounts will be applied.

How long are you visiting for?

When this coverage is purchased prior to arrival in Canada, coverage becomes effective on the day you arrive.

If you wish to extend your existing Visitor to Canada Coverage you must contact us directly at 1 800 873-2583 or email us .

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Travel Insurance

Travel insurance plans are designed to help protect you and your family wherever your travels take you.

What is travel insurance?

Whether you’re headed outside your home province or to the other side of the world, traveling can be stressful.

Travel insurance can help protect you from the difficulties that come from unexpected medical expenses.

Why do I need travel insurance?

If you’re planning to travel, there are many reasons why travel insurance may be right for you:

• For the peace of mind.  You’ll know you’re protected in case of an accident or sudden illness.
• To cover unexpectedly high bills.  The cost of medical care can be much higher abroad than in Canada,
• To be supported by a team of professionals.  They’ll make sure that you have access to medical care and arrange for you to come home if needed.
• For unexpected hospital visits.  Some hospitals require that uninsured patients pay a deposit of several thousands of dollars before providing the necessary care. With travel insurance, you'll save money on any potential hospital charges.

What does travel insurance cover?

When you’re traveling outside your home province, territory, or country, unexpected emergencies can cost thousands of dollars.

Your government health care plans have limits on how much they’ll cover. You may be left with any potential bills.

Travel insurance can help you manage your way through difficult situations:

• Emergency medical care. Travel insurance can help when you need unexpected hospital, ambulance, and dental care.
• Theft or loss of documents. Insurance specialists can help you reach the Canadian embassy or your financial institution if your documents or cards are lost or stolen.
• Translation services. If you don’t speak the local language where you’re traveling, multilingual interpreters can help. In an emergency, these interpreters can help you communicate with local resources.
• Trip interruption. Travel insurance can help you arrange for your return home in the event you must cut your trip short due to a medical reason.

Keep in mind that your coverage may not include any pre-existing health conditions.

Planning a trip?

Make travel insurance a key part of your preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does travel insurance cover my expenses in case i get sick abroad.

Yes, travel insurance will typically cover you in case you get sick abroad. Some plans may exclude medical expenses incurred in places where a Level 4 Travel Advisory is in effect.

Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?

There are policies that may cover specific losses arising from sudden and unforeseeable circumstances related to COVID-19.

Does travel insurance cover COVID-19 tests?

Depending on your plan, COVID-19 tests may be covered.

Does travel insurance cover cancelled trips due to COVID-19 restrictions?

Travel insurance typically won’t cover canceled trips due to COVID-19 restrictions. This is because COVID-19 is a known event, meaning it’s not unexpected or improbable that circumstances may cause cancelation or interruption of your trip. Trip cancelation or trip interruption claims due to the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 advisories will typically not be covered.

Does travel insurance cover accommodation during emergencies?

Some travel insurance policies may cover accommodation during certain emergencies.

What else should I consider before travelling?

You may have important reasons to travel in these uncertain times, such as for family or work. If you’re preparing to travel outside of Canada, consider the requirements of the country that you’re visiting. As with every trip, we recommend you review and follow  Government of Canada travel advisories .

Please note: This is general information about travel insurance.  Click here to learn more

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BCAA Travel Insurance & COVID-19

Bcaa travel insurance & covid-19 coverage.

BCAA Travel Insurance offers both Travel Emergency Medical Insurance and non-medical Trip Protection Coverage (i.e. Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance, and more) and COVID-19 impacts each coverage differently.

BCAA Travel Emergency Medical Insurance: If you purchased your policy on August 13, 2021 or later, your policy includes up to $1,000,000 or $10,000,000 in coverage for COVID-19 related medical expenses outside of Canada depending on your vaccine status and your eligibility*.  Your coverage wording is available at bcaa.com/wordings.

BCAA Visitors to Canada Travel Emergency Medical Insurance. If you purchased your policy on August 13, 2021 or later, your policy includes coverage for COVID-19 related medical expenses, up to the coverage limit you selected at the time of purchase**. Your coverage wording is available at bcaa.com/wordings.

BCAA Trip Cancellation or Trip Interruption (Trip Protection Package/Non-medical Travel Package): As of March 5, 2020, COVID-19 is considered a known event worldwide, and no coverage is available for COVID-19.

More information is available in the below Frequently Asked Questions .

COVID-19 and Travelling

Before you go.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with travel rules, restrictions and requirements for your departure from, and return to, Canada. Helpful checklists can be found at travel.gc.ca . It’s also a good idea to closely review your insurance coverage so you’re familiar with the terms and conditions before you leave.

While you’re away

If you get sick while you’re away, with BCAA Travel Insurance you have access to personalized care, with safe and convenient virtual and in-person visit options, as well as the flexibility to choose your medical provider and obtain treatment in any hospital anywhere in the world. If you are not familiar with the medical providers at your location, we can help you find appropriate medical attention.

When you return

Anyone travelling to Canada will need to follow testing and quarantine requirements. Visit the Canadian Government website, travel.gc.ca , for the latest detailed information, including helpful pretravel checklists. If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 once you return home, call 8-1-1 for more information and advice.

Helpful resources

• Current Canadian travel advisories: Learn about current travel advisories from the Government of Canada at travel.gc.ca .
• Travel rules and requirements: Travel rules and requirements can change quickly and without notice, so we strongly advise that you check the Canadian government travel website  for rules and requirements for leaving Canada, as well as for those of your destination.
• News on disease outbreaks and ways to protect yourself: The Public Health Agency of Canada and the BC Centre for Disease Control provide the latest news on disease outbreaks, including Coronavirus (COVID-19) and ways to protect yourself, while you’re home and away. You may also want to check the number of COVID-19 cases and vaccination levels for your destination through the World Health Organization .

BCAA Travel Insurance Coverage

Does my bcaa travel emergency medical insurance policy cover covid-19 arrow icon.

All Travel Emergency Medical Insurance policies for Canadian residents provide up to $10,000,000 or $1,000,000 in coverage for COVID-19-related emergency medical expenses depending on your vaccine status*. Coverage also applies when travel is within Canada. For details on Visitors to Canada Travel Emergency Medical Insurance COVID-19 medical coverage, see the BCAA Visitors to Canada Travel Emergency Medical Coverage FAQ section below .

Does my BCAA Trip Protection (Trip Cancellation & Interruption) policy cover COVID-19? Arrow Icon

If you purchased or renewed your Trip Protection Package on or after March 5, 2020 you will not have coverage for Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption for COVID-19, as it is considered a worldwide “known circumstance”. Trip Cancellation & Interruption Insurance policies are designed to cover unexpected issues. Because COVID-19 is so widely known, it’s no longer considered unexpected. You can learn more at bcaa.com/wordings .

What happens if I get sick before I leave? Arrow Icon

If you develop symptoms associated with COVID-19 (or any illness) before your vacation, it would be wise to avoid travelling.

If you test positive for COVID-19 or show COVID-19 symptoms within the 14-days prior to your departure date, COVID-19 medical coverage will not be available to you.

If you experienced a COVID-19 infection more than 14-days before departure, it will be considered an unstable pre-existing condition if it does not meet the definition of minor ailment as outlined in the Definitions section of the policy wording available at bcaa.com/wordings . Optional unstable pre-existing condition coverage is available for additional premium and would provide coverage up to $300,000 for COVID-19 medical emergencies if you do not experience further symptoms or require further treatment within 7-days prior to departure.

If you had a COVID-19 diagnosis that occurred more than 14-days before departure that does meet the criteria for minor ailment, it would not be considered a pre-existing condition and you would be eligible for up to $10,000,000 or $1,000,000 in COVID-19 emergency medical coverage depending on your vaccine status*.

If you have purchased the Trip Protection Package and would like to cancel your trip due to illness, coverage may be available provided you purchased the insurance before contracting the illness and your physician advised you in writing against travelling. If your policy was purchased on or after March 5, 2020, you would not have coverage if you got sick with COVID-19.

Please see full terms and conditions at bcaa.com/wordings or contact us to discuss pre-existing conditions and their impact on available coverage.

If I get sick while I’m away, what are my treatment options? Arrow Icon

If you get sick while you’re away, with BCAA Travel Insurance you have access to personalized care, with safe and convenient virtual and in-person visit options, as well as the flexibility to choose your medical provider and obtain treatment in any hospital anywhere in the world. If you are not familiar with the medical providers at your location, we can help you find appropriate medical attention. You can learn more and find contact information at bcaa.com/travelclaims .

COVID-19 Emergency Medical Coverage

How does a level 3 canadian government travel advisory impact covid-19 emergency medical coverage arrow icon.

COVID-19 emergency medical coverage is still available if a Level 3 (avoid non-essential travel) advisory for COVID-19 is in place for your destination at the time of your departure. Please check the Government of Canada website for the latest travel advisories. Please also check all other FAQs and bcaa.com/wordings for all policy terms and eligibility criteria.

How does a Level 4 (avoid all travel) Canadian Government travel advisory impact COVID-19 Emergency Medical Coverage? Arrow Icon

If a Level 4 Government of Canada travel advisory for COVID-19 is in place at the time of your departure, COVID-19 emergency medical coverage is not available.

If a Level 4 Government of Canada travel advisory for COVID-19 is issued after your departure, COVID-19 emergency medical coverage is available as long as prior to departure the travel advisory in place for your destination was lower than Level 3 (or there was no advisory in place).

Please note that some countries (even particular territories and jurisdictions within those countries) may have Level 4 advisories for COVID-19, so it is important to check the Government of Canada website for the latest travel advisories for your destination.

Who is eligible for COVID-19 Emergency Medical Coverage? Arrow Icon

BCAA Travel Emergency Medical Insurance policies include up to $1,000,000 or $10,000,000 CAD in coverage for emergency medical travel expenses related to COVID-19 outside of Canada based on your vaccine status and eligibility. $10,000,000 limit applies if you have been fully vaccinated (administered with at least two doses of a Health Canada-approved COVID-19 vaccine) and up to $1,000,000 CAD if you have been administered one dose. Dose(s) must be administered 14-days or more prior to departure. Children under the age of 18 are covered regardless of their vaccine status. Full eligibility criteria for COVID-19 coverage and all policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limitations can be found in the policy wording at bcaa.com/wordings .

For details on Visitors to Canada Travel Emergency Medical Insurance COVID-19 medical coverage, see the BCAA Visitors to Canada Travel Emergency Medical Coverage FAQ section below .

Do I need to prove that I’ve been vaccinated to get COVID-19 Emergency Medical Insurance Coverage? Arrow Icon

Proof that you’ve been vaccinated is not required at the time of purchase, however, in the unfortunate event of a COVID-19 emergency medical claim, you will need to provide evidence that you received a Health Canada-approved COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to leaving on your trip. For coverage to apply, travelers also must have not had any COVID-19 symptoms and must not have been diagnosed with COVID-19 within 14-days prior of departure.

Do I have to pay extra to get COVID-19 Emergency Medical Insurance Coverage? Arrow Icon

Your policy includes up to $1,000,000 or $10,000,000 CAD in coverage for emergency medical travel expenses related to COVID-19, depending on your vaccine status*, at no additional cost.

I’m planning a cruise, am I able to get coverage for COVID-19 emergency medical expenses? Arrow Icon

Now that the Canadian Government has lifted the Level 4 (Avoid All Travel) COVID-19 travel advisory for cruise travel, COVID-19 emergency medical coverage is available (depending on your vaccination status*), as long as your trip departed after the travel advisory was lifted on March 7, 2022.

If your trip departed before the travel advisory was lifted on March 7, 2022, there is no coverage for COVID-19 emergency medical expenses for the duration of your trip.

COVID-19 Vaccinations

Do i need to receive a booster vaccine to be considered fully vaccinated arrow icon.

No, you do not need to get a booster vaccine to have COVID-19 medical coverage.

Full terms and conditions are available at bcaa.com/wordings .

If I receive a COVID-19 vaccine prior to departure and I have an adverse reaction to it, will treatment for my adverse reaction be covered? Arrow Icon

Coverage for adverse reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine is the same as coverage for adverse reactions to all other vaccines and depends on a few factors, including when symptoms started. You can learn more at bcaa.com/wordings .

If I receive a first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine while I’m away and have an adverse reaction to it, will treatment for my adverse reaction be covered? Arrow Icon

Yes, coverage would be available as this would be considered an emergency.

Quarantine Coverage

What if i’m quarantined while i’m away arrow icon.

If you are mandated to quarantine by the government or health authority at your destination due to testing positive for COVID-19, your BCAA travel insurance coverage may respond in the following way:

• Travel Emergency Medical Insurance: Your medical coverage, including coverage for COVID-19 related emergency medical expenses, may automatically extend for the duration of your government or health authority-mandated quarantine duration that lasts beyond your originally schedule return date, up to a maximum of 14-days. Visit bcaa.com/wordings to learn more.
• Travel Delay, Travel Delay & COVID-19 Quarantine or Trip Protection Package optional coverages: For departure dates on Feb 18, 2022 and later : Any policies that have the Travel Delay, Travel Delay & COVID-19 Quarantine, or Trip Protection Package optional coverages added to a BCAA Travel Emergency Medical policy, up to $300 per person per day (up to $3,000 maximum) and $500 per family per day (up to $5,000 maximum) in quarantine expense coverage is available for unplanned accommodation and living expenses. Coverage applies if you are mandated to quarantine due to testing positive for COVID-19 and are unable to return on your originally-scheduled return date.

Coverage for all other COVID-19 related claims is not available, as COVID-19 is considered a global “known circumstance”.

Please review your applicable wordings available at bcaa.com/wordings and bcaa.com/COVID-19 to learn more.

Purchasing, Renewing, Extending or Cancelling Your Policy

Can i buy a new bcaa travel emergency medical insurance policy if i’ve already left on my trip arrow icon.

No, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, BCAA is not currently able to provide coverage for travelers who have already left the country.

Can I renew my BCAA Travel Emergency Medical Insurance policy if I’m outside of Canada? Arrow Icon

Yes, you can renew your policy mid-trip.

My BCAA Travel Emergency Medical Insurance policy is about to expire and I’m still on my trip. Can I extend it? Arrow Icon

Yes, you can extend your policy. Depending on when you departed and purchased your policy, there may be certain limitations on how long you can extend your policy for, so please give us a call to discuss your circumstances.

Can I cancel and/or get a refund for my BCAA Travel Emergency Medical Insurance policy? Arrow Icon

Your eligibility for a refund depends on the type of policy you purchased, how long it’s been in effect and whether you’ve travelled on the policy. Please refer to the following table for more information. Refund rules are also available in your policy wording at bcaa.com/wordings .

What value can I get from my Annual Multi-trip BCAA Travel Emergency Medical policy if I can’t get a refund? Arrow Icon

With the global travel restrictions in place, we know that your travels may be taking you within Canada instead. Your BCAA Annual Multi-trip policy provides tremendous value for travel within Canada. For example, your maximum trip length limitation does not apply to travel within Canada, so if you selected a maximum trip duration of 8 days, you can exceed that and travel longer within Canada. Also, your policy covers COVID-19 related emergency medical expenses within Canada up to $10,000,000.

Can I cancel and/or get a refund for my BCAA Trip Protection (Non-medical/Trip Cancellation & Interruption) policy? Arrow Icon

Your eligibility for a refund depends on the type of policy you purchased. Please refer to the following table for more information. Refund rules are also available in your policy wording at bcaa.com/wordings .

Refunds are not available if you intend on making a claim on your Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance Coverage.

BCAA Visitors to Canada Travel Emergency Medical Coverage

Does bcaa visitors to canada travel emergency medical insurance provide coverage for covid-19 related medical expenses arrow icon.

BCAA Visitors to Canada Travel Emergency Medical Insurance policies include coverage for COVID-19 related medical expenses, up to the coverage limit you selected at the time of purchase.

For coverage to apply, all vaccine dose(s) must have been administered at least 14 days prior to the effective date, arrival date or COVID-19 diagnosis date, whichever occurs later. Children under the age of 18 are covered regardless of their vaccine status. Vaccines approved by the health authority in your home country will be accepted, even if they are not approved by Health Canada for use within Canada. Coverage also does not apply if you have COVID-19 symptoms or a positive test within 14-days of arrival date or, effective date or, the date of the COVID-19 diagnosis, whichever occurs earlier. Coverage for COVID-19 related medical expenses does not apply if you are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated.

Full eligibility criteria for COVID-19 coverage and all policy terms, conditions, exclusions and limitations can be found in the policy wording at bcaa.com/wordings .

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Do I Need Travel Insurance When Travelling Within Canada?

Published: Sep 22, 2023, 10:13am

Table of Contents

How does health insurance work in canada, what is not covered by my ghip, what is not covered when travelling within canada, what travel insurance do i need for travelling within canada, where can i get travel insurance for travelling within canada, how much does travel insurance for travelling within canada cost, the bottom line.

Maybe you’ve heard the horror stories of people who have travelled to far-flung destinations, gotten sick or injured and been saddled with hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills. As a savvy traveller, you know it’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance when going abroad, but what about a trip within Canada?

Whether you’re planning a month-long expedition across the country, a ski trip in Quebec or a leisurely tour of the east coast, if you think that your provincial health insurance will cover all your medical expenses while you’re in another province, think again.

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The Travel Industry Council of Ontario ( TICO ) recommends that Canadians should always protect themselves by purchasing medical insurance even when travelling within Canada. That’s because not all medical expenses are covered by your provincial or territorial government health insurance plan once you leave your home province or territory. Here’s what you need to know.

Canada has a universal health care system that provides public health insurance to any Canadian citizen or permanent resident. This is known as the Government Health Insurance Plan, or GHIP. Each province and territory has its own health plan; for example, in Ontario it’s called the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, or OHIP, and in B.C. it’s called the Medical Services Plan, or MSP.

In general, with public health insurance, you won’t have to pay for most health care services, including family doctor’s visits, lab tests, diagnostics including X-rays, and emergency medical and hospital services.

There are differences between provincial and territorial plans, so it’s important to know what your plan covers. For example, Manitoba Health covers up to seven chiropractor visits per year, while Ontario does not offer chiropractic coverage.

Here is list of provincial and territorial public health care plans:

• British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP)
• Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)
• Saskatchewan Health Services
• Manitoba Health
• Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)
• Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)
• New Brunswick Medicare
• Nova Scotia Medical Service Insurance (MSI)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP)
• Northwest Territories NWT Health Care Plan
• Yukon Health Care Insurance Plan (YHCIP)
• Nunavut Health Care Plan

While Canada’s public health insurance plan is comprehensive, it doesn’t cover everything. While the particulars differ between provinces, the following are examples of services generally not covered by public health insurance:

• Cosmetic treatments and surgery
• Certain prescription drugs and vaccines
• Over-the-counter drugs
• Medical appliances
• Private nursing
• Additional charges for a private hospital room
• Services provided by paramedical health providers, such as chiropodists, physiotherapists, psychologists, dieticians, etc., outside of a hospital
• Some medical supplies, such as syringes
• Routine dental care, extractions and procedures

However, your province may offer publicly-funded drug plans for students, youth and/or seniors. Your employer may offer employment-related health insurance or you can purchase your own private health insurance plan to cover any coverage gaps.

Emergency medical insurance is a must-have for any out-of-province travel, even if you’re still in Canada.

In general, if you are travelling outside of your home province or territory and you don’t have supplemental travel insurance and you are faced with with a medical emergency, the following costs may not be covered:

• Treatment provided by a health-care practitioner, such as a physician assistant, nurse practitioner, chiropractor or physical therapist
• Prescription drugs
• Medical supplies
• Ambulance services, by ground or air
• Dental emergencies

Fees can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Say you’re visiting Toronto from Winnipeg and you take a tumble down a flight of concrete steps. You’re taken by ambulance to the nearest local hospital and it’s discovered you fractured your femur. The ambulance ride alone will cost you. According to the Ontario Ministry of Health , visitors to Ontario who require ambulance services will have their costs fully covered only if:

• You are a visitor to Ontario from another province, and
• You are insured under your province’s health care plan, and
• A physician deems your ambulance service medically necessary, and
• You are transported between and Ontario hospital and a hospital in another province, or between two Ontario hospitals, and
• Your trip is for diagnostic or therapeutic services, and
• You are returned to the hospital of origin within 24 hours.

In all other cases you will have to pay a land ambulance service co-payment charge of $240. And if you need to be transported by air ambulance, you’ll be billed the actual cost. According to figures of Canadian hospital rates from August 2019 provided by Vancouver-based David Cummings Insurance Services, an air ambulance by helicopter in B.C. costs $2,746 per hour.

Most Canadian provinces and territories have reciprocal agreements with each other, except for Quebec, which means that if you are visiting Ontario from Nova Scotia and you need to visit the emergency department, the Ontario physician will bill their own provincial health care plan for insured services. The only exception is Quebec, where you’ll need to pay the health provider up front.

If you are required to pay out of pocket, you can typically submit a medical expense claim to your own GHIP when you return home. Keep in mind there may be a variation in billing rates between provinces and you could be on the hook for any difference.

Whenever you leave your home province, it’s important to get comprehensive emergency medical insurance in case of an unexpected illness or injury. In general, travel medical insurance pays for unexpected medical expenses during your trip, including:

• Ambulance services (ground and air)
• Physicians’ bills
• Hospital and operating room charges
• Diagnostics and lab tests
• Drugs and medication
• Emergency dental care
• Repatriation to your home province or territory
• Cost to bring a companion to your bedside if you’re hospitalized
• Childcare costs if you’re hospitalized
• Vehicle return if a hospitalization prevents you from returning your rental car

You can purchase travel insurance for travelling within Canada at the same place you’d buy travel insurance for any other trip. You can purchase travel insurance online, through a broker or a travel agent.

Some insurance companies, such as Scotia Travel Insurance , offer cheaper rates for travel within Canada. Others offer a bespoke Canada package. For example, RBC Insurance offers a comprehensive Travel Within Canada Package that offers emergency medical and trip protection for travel within Canada, while TuGo offers an Emergency Medical Within Canada package with $10 million in coverage.

Your travel credit card may also provide sufficient emergency medical coverage for trips within Canada. Before you leave home, check the fine print to ensure you’re properly protected.

The cost of travel medical insurance depends on several factors, such as your age, the duration of your trip, your destination and your health.

Using a sample quote of a 45-year-old healthy woman travelling from Toronto to Vancouver for eight days, here are some examples of the cost of emergency medical travel insurance:

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth spending that extra cash on travel insurance for a trip within Canada, consider it a small investment for extra peace of mind. Not having sufficient emergency medical coverage can ruin your vacation—and your bank balance.

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Fiona Campbell is a Staff Writer for Forbes Advisor Canada. She started her career on Bay Street, but followed her love for research, writing and a good story into journalism. She is the former editor of Bankrate Canada, and has over 20 years of experience writing for various publications, including the Globe and Mail, Financial Post Business, Advisor’s Edge, Mydoh.ca and more.

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What are my travel insurance coverage options, through bcaa you can purchase emergency medical travel insurance, visitors to canada insurance and/or a trip protection package to cover you on your travels. sep 28, 2022 • knowledge, was this article helpful, related articles.

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