Travel insurance is designed to protect travellers from unexpected events that could cause financial hardship. There are many reasons why you might need travel insurance. If you are planning a trip to Canada, obtaining or having travel insurance is not a requirement for admission. However, travel insurance does provide protection for covering expenses should you encounter unexpected surprises such as missed flights, cancelled bookings, or experience medical emergencies.
Travel insurance is recommended when visiting Canada
While many people may be hesitant to purchase travel insurance, it is actually a wise decision, especially when visiting a country like Canada. There are many reasons why this is the case. First of all, Canada is a very large country with a range of climate zones and terrain. This means that there are many different activities to enjoy, from skiing and snowboarding in the mountains to hiking in the forests. Additionally, if you are taking a cruise or travelling to a remote destination while in Canada, travel insurance can provide peace of mind in case of an emergency.
However, each of these activities comes with its own set of risks. For example, if you were to injure yourself while skiing, travel insurance would help to cover the cost of your medical treatment. Similarly, if you were to lose your luggage or have it stolen, travel insurance would reimburse you for the cost of replacing your belongings. In short, travel insurance provides peace of mind and financial protection in the event that something goes wrong while you are travelling. So, if you are planning a trip to Canada, consider purchasing travel insurance before you depart.
Check your credit card benefits and existing insurance policies before purchasing travel insurance policies
Credit cards
Some credit cards offer travel insurance as a perk, so be sure to check your benefits before purchasing a separate policy. Make note of the exclusions on the policy, for example are trips to Canada covered and are winter sports covered as well?
Existing health insurance policies
Some health insurance policies include some basic cover while travelling. However, the coverage may not be sufficient to pay for expenses in a country such as Canada, where the healthcare costs can be high relative to other nations. It is important to check with your insurer before you travel to see if your coverage exists and if it is sufficient.
What kind of coverage can you expect with travel insurance
There are many different types of coverage available, and the best policy for you will depend on the specific details of your trip. For example, some policies will cover trip cancellations due to illness or weather, while others may provide coverage for lost baggage or delays. When making a claim, travel insurance policies will reimburse you for non-refundable expenses. Non-refundable expenses include plane tickets, activity bookings, transportation and hotel reservations if your trip is cut short or requires updates. While it’s impossible to predict every possible scenario, a good travel insurance policy can give you peace of mind and help you enjoy your trip worry-free.
The costs to buy travel insurance for Canada
While the cost of insurance will vary depending on the length of your trip and the level of coverage you require, it is generally affordable to purchase a policy that will provide a good level of protection. Some things to consider when purchasing travel insurance for Canada include medical coverage, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, and baggage and personal effects coverage. You can get a quote for travel insurance online in minutes, so be sure to shop around and compare rates before buying a policy. By taking some time to research your options, you can ensure that you have the right level of protection at the best price.
What should you do if you have a medical emergency while in Canada
If you have a medical emergency while in Canada, there are a few things you should do. First, if you are able, call 911. This will connect you with emergency services who can provide medical assistance. If you are not able to call 911, or if your symptoms are not life-threatening, you can go to the nearest hospital or walk-in clinic. You may also want to contact your embassy or consulate, as they may be able to provide assistance. In any case, it is important to get medical help as soon as possible if you are feeling unwell.
Some important things to remember when travelling to Canada
When travelling to Canada, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
- First, it is important to have a valid passport. All travellers must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the planned date of departure from Canada.
- Secondly, it is important to obtain a visa or an eTA before travelling. Citizens of some countries may be eligible for an electronic travel authorization (eTA), but others will need to apply for a visa through the Canadian embassy or consulate.
- Thirdly, it is important to be aware of the local laws and customs before travelling. For example, possession of marijuana is legal in Canada, but it is illegal to cross the border with it.
By keeping these things in mind, you can ensure that your trip to Canada goes smoothly.
Getting the right travel authorization for Canada
If you’re not a Canadian or U.S. citizen, or don’t hold a Canadian Visa, you will need to obtain a travel authorization, such as an eTA or a Canadian Visa. A Canadian eTA, or electronic Travel Authorization, is a digital travel authorization issued by the Canadian government to citizens of countries deemed as low security and immigration risks. You can check your eligibility for eTA by taking the online assessment. An eTA can be used for short business, tourism or transit purposes when entering Canada. It is issued for a period of five years and can be used for multiple visits to Canada.
Conclusion
While the decision to purchase travel insurance is ultimately up to you, we strongly recommend that you buy a policy before your trip to Canada. There are many reasons why you might need travel insurance, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. With travel insurance, you can expect coverage for things like medical emergencies, cancelled flights, and lost luggage. Travel insurance typically costs a fraction of your total trip cost. If you have a medical emergency while in Canada, call 911 right away. Be sure to have your travel insurance information handy so that the hospital can contact your insurer. When packing for your trip, don’t forget to bring along your travel insurance policy documents.