Best time to buy travel insurance? Now says CAA travel expert

The bags are packed, the countdown is on, and your dream destination is just a flight away. But before you zip your suitcase, there's one thing you might be forgetting – travel insurance. 

Buying travel insurance early doesn't just offer peace of mind; it can make a big difference in the type of protection you receive. The real question isn't just if you need it, but when to get it.  

A travel expert from CAA breaks it down and explains why timing matters just as much as coverage. 

“You never know what might happen, and life can be unpredictable,” said Rachel Lalonde, Travel Store Manager. “I want to ensure my trip is protected right away, it's a peace of mind knowing I can make adjustments or cancel, with the insurance protecting my investment.” 

Early booking, better protection  

Once the destination is picked, the days are booked off, and the first deposit is down, the next step should be to secure travel insurance. 

Lalonde says that the best time to buy travel insurance is after that first payment. Buying early makes you eligible for more complete protection – coverage that can apply before you even leave home.  

Why early matters  

Being prepared means having coverage in place before the unexpected happens. Still, many travellers hesitate, often because they're unsure of what travel insurance includes.  

A recent CAA study conducted by DIG insights found that seventy-two per cent of Canadians said they don't fully understand travel insurance.¹

While travel insurance offers security, it also comes with limitations. Waiting too long can mean fewer coverage options, limited flexibility to cancel, and no protection against known risks.  

To get the most out of your plan, lock in your quotes with a travel agent as soon as your flight, hotel, cruise or tour is booked.  

When life changes your plans 

Cancelling travel plans can be disappointing, but the right insurance can help soften the blow.  

Cancel for Any Reason coverage helps recover costs from non-refundable trips, offering protection against the financial impact of cancellation. If you buy your coverage early enough – within 72 hours of your first deposit – you may be eligible for a refund of up to 75 per cent of the sum insured, up to $2,500, back on your total cost.

Don't miss the window  

To make the most of your coverage, book your travel insurance within 72 hours of your initial trip payment to qualify for the Cancel For Any Other Reason protection. Speak to a CAA Travel Consultant at 1-800-705-1803 or get your online quote.  

CAA Travel Insurance, an Orion Travel Insurance product, is underwritten by Echelon Insurance. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. A Medical Questionnaire is required if you are 60 years of age and older. Subject to change without notice. Visit the policy guide for full terms and conditions.

1. The online survey was conducted by DIG Insights from September 29 – October 8, 2025, with 2,021 Canadian travellers aged 25-64. Based on the sample size of n=2,021 and with a confidence level of 95%, the margin of error for this research is +/- 2%.

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