5 Most expensive travel insurance claims (and how much they’d cost you)

While we hope you never need it, it’s important to be covered with travel health insurance whenever you’re on vacation. It helps you get the medical attention you need without the massive medical bills, so you can travel with peace of mind. We rounded up the five most expensive emergency medical travel insurance claims and how much CAA Travel Insurance paid* to get our travellers the protection they needed. Without travel insurance, it could be you who is on the hook for these costly medical bills.

$37,000 for Neurological Medical Emergencies*

Neurological emergencies can range from minor to severe. While a headache may not spoil your whole trip, a severe migraine or a concussion might. With travel insurance, your medical expenses for neurological emergencies are covered. Without travel insurance, you’d be paying out of pocket. On average, CAA Travel Insurance pays $37,000 per claim for medical emergencies related to the brain.

$46,000 for Heart Conditions*

When it comes to heart conditions, most people think of heart attacks. Did you know that a heart condition could mean many things? It can also include arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythms), high blood pressure or hypertension.  How much would a heart condition cost you without travel insurance? CAA Travel Insurance pays an average of $46,000 per claim for cardiac medical emergencies.

$51,000 for Gallbladder Pain and Problems*

Your gallbladder helps to break down food—including all the local fare you’re eating on holiday. But, while on vacation, you could suffer from inflammation, gallstones, or other problems that force you to the hospital. Without travel medical insurance, being hospitalized for gallbladder problems is pricey! CAA Travel Insurance, on average, pays $51,000 per claim for cardiac medical emergencies.

$51,000 for Stroke*

Your chance of having a stroke goes up as you get older, with two-thirds of strokes happening in people over 65. After 55, the risk of stroke doubles every ten years. CAA Travel Insurance typically pays $51,000 per claim for a stroke.

$80,000 for Diabetes*

Did you know that 30% of Canadians live with diabetes or prediabetes? It’s a common health concern many travellers have and one you should be covered for. If you have diabetes, you can still get emergency medical insurance with a Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Rider1 if your condition has been stable for three to six months (depending on your age). Consider adding a Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Rider to your travel medical insurance plan. How much would this cost you without travel insurance? CAA Travel Insurance pays around $80,000 per claim for medical emergencies related to diabetes.

Avoid costly medical bills with CAA Travel Insurance

Emergencies can happen at any time – even on vacation. While we’re used to the health care system in Ontario, we need to remember it isn’t the same everywhere else. Get CAA Travel Insurance – it’s a small price to pay in case there’s an emergency. Go online to get a quote in just a few simple steps, or call 1-800-267-8713. Don’t forget, CAA Members save up to 20%² on their policy. 

~CAA Travel Insurance, an Orion Travel Insurance product, is underwritten by Echelon Insurance. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. Subject to change without notice. A Medical Questionnaire is required if you are 60 years of age and older. Quotes are valid for 30 days.~

~*Average cost is per claim and is based on actual claims to Orion Travel Insurance Company, a CAA Company, between Jan. 1, 2022 and Aug. 1, 2022.~

~1. All pre-existing medical conditions must be stable within 7 days prior to departure. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. Age 59 and under: three months stable prior to each departure date (excludes coverage for lung conditions treated with Prednisone three months prior to departure).~

~2. Applies to CAA Members in good standing (CAA Membership dues paid in full by Membership expiry date). Up to twenty percent (20%) savings applies to the total premium excluding applicable taxes. Minimum premium applies. Subject to change without notice. Excludes Visitors to Canada Insurance. CAA Everyday, Classic®, and Plus® Members save 10%. CAA Premier® Members save 20% at CAA Stores or by calling 1-800-267-8713. CAA Premier Members save 10% and earn 10% in CAA Dollars® when booking online.~

~®CAA trademarks are owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association.~