Are you a snowbird? Don’t fly away without CAA’s travel medical coverage

As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, Canadian snowbirds head south and to Europe in search of sandy beaches and milder temperatures. It’s a great lifestyle of perpetual summer, but it does require a bit of planning ahead. Fortunately, CAA offers snowbird insurance that gives piece of mind for long-term travellers. Here are a few commonly asked questions to help get you started!

What is covered by travel insurance?

With CAA, you pick the plan based on your travel needs. CAA Travel Insurance offers emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation, and trip interruption protection. Over 60? Don’t worry! With CAA’s pre-existing conditions rider*, you can travel safely while chasing the sun. Go online to get a quote in just a few simple steps or contact a CAA Travel Consultant. 

Which medical conditions impact travel insurance rates?

For those age 60 and above, any medical conditions you knew of prior to purchasing travel insurance are considered “pre-existing conditions” — and you’ll need to declare them. These conditions can range from high cholesterol and diabetes to cancer. Go online to learn more or speak with a CAA Travel Consultant.  

Which medical conditions are not covered by insurance?

Travel insurance rarely covers routine health checkups, non-emergency care, cosmetic surgery, and non-essential therapies. Your travel insurance plan is there to protect you in case of emergency.  

Are pre-existing conditions covered?

Coverage is still available for individuals with a pre-existing condition if you purchase a top up to your emergency medical plan. We cover pre-existing conditions if your health has remained stable for 3 months prior to travelling. If you’re 70 or older, you’ll need stable health conditions for 6 months prior to travelling.  

Is a medical exam required for emergency medical insurance?

It is unlikely that a medical exam will be necessary when purchasing travel insurance. However, a medical questionnaire must be completed for travellers aged 60 and up. This can be done online or over the phone with a CAA Travel Consultant.  

How do insurance companies find out about pre-existing conditions?

Insurers generally determine the presence of a pre-existing condition based on an applicant’s current health status. Being honest on medical questionnaires will determine the best coverage. You’ll want to answer truthfully so you know you’re covered in case you need to make a claim.  

Can I use OHIP to cover out-of-country medical expenses?

While OHIP can cover some out-of-country medical expenses, it is recommended you don’t rely on OHIP alone. If you’re travelling over the winter (especially if you’re gone for a few weeks to a few months), you’ll want to get comprehensive insurance coverage.  

What travel insurance plans cover multiple trips in a year?

If you’re a snowbird who likes to fly back home now and again, you may be interested in CAA’s multi-trip insurance plans.2 This plan protects against the cost of unexpected medical emergencies for multiple individual trips (up to 4, 8, 15, 30, or 60 days each) throughout the year. Your multi-trip plan starts each time you leave Canada, and if you stay longer than the days included in the plan, a top-up can be purchased. For travel within Canada, your number of travel days is unlimited with a multi-trip plan, and atop-up is not necessary.

Can I save on my travel insurance policy if I buy through CAA?

CAA Members save up to 20%³ on CAA Travel Insurance – and if you’re travelling for a few weeks or even months, those savings can really add up! Go online to get a quote and see how much you will save! CAA makes it simple to get travel insurance so you can travel safely. Go online to get a quote in a few simple steps or call 1-800-267-8713 to speak with a CAA Travel Consultant. 

~CAA Travel Insurance is underwritten by Orion Travel Insurance Company, a CAA Company. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. Subject to change without notice. A Medical Questionnaire may be required to purchase travel insurance. Quotes are valid for 30 days.~

~All pre-existing medical conditions must be stable within 7 days prior to departure. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply.~

~1. Terms and conditions apply. $5 million CAD emergency medical coverage, is dependent on having received all Health Canada approved COVID-19 vaccines, at least 14 days prior to departure. Please see the COVID-19 Endorsement for details.~

~2. Medical Multi-Trip Annual Plans cover 4, 8, 15, 30, or 60 days per trip depending on the plan you purchased. Top-Up coverage is available for longer trips. Coverage cannot extend beyond 365 days from departure date or effective date.~

~3. 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.~