Escape the winter blues

After a long Canadian winter, most of us feel the need to get away from it all. We’re bored with the drudgery of winter, and feel the need for a little adventure. Whether it’s to Europe, Asia or to a beach in the Caribbean, it’s important to be prepared before going anywhere, and part of that preparation is to ensure that you’re covered in case of an emergency.

Medical Coverage

Although Canada has a great health care plan, it doesn’t always translate into coverage when we travel abroad. Everyone knows about the high cost of American healthcare, and unfortunately for us, when we’re in the United States, we have to pay for our own medical needs. This could be financially crippling for a family, and a simple trip across the border could end up costing you tens of thousands of dollars. And, it’s not just in the United States where we have to be careful. In fact, whenever you travel abroad, there is a good chance that if you had an accident, you’d be paying for the treatment out-of-pocket.

Before you book your next trip, be sure to look into getting some travel insurance. Not only will it save you untold medical costs in case you have a crisis when traveling abroad, it can also give you peace of mind, which is extremely important when you’re trying to relax.

Travel insurance ensures that you can be covered in the following areas:

• Cancellation Insurance - Life happens, and sometimes it’s not possible to make the trips we’ve so painstakingly planned for. If this occurs, cancellation insurance covers the cost of your trip so that you aren’t out the cost of the vacation that you didn’t get to go on.

• Emergency Medical Canada Plan – Unfortunately, our government health care plan doesn’t cover everything we might want when traveling within Canada. The Emergency Medical Canada Plan covers both land and air ambulances, private and semi-private hospital rooms, return of vehicle coverage, medical repatriation and the transportation of family members to the hospital.

• Out-of-Province Medical Insurance – Even though we’re all Canadians, our health coverage is not federally regulated. Each province has its own health plan which is paid for by the taxes of the residents who live there. So, when traveling to a different province, it’s important to get insurance so that you’re covered in case of an accident or an unexpected illness.
 
Travel insurance can also offer infant protection, holiday protection and travel accident plans, so it’s important to research exactly what you need covered and choose your insurance wisely. After all, travel insurance can save your holiday, your finances and even, your life.

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