Out-of-province travel? Experts share why travel insurance is a good idea

Planning your next vacation in Canada? As you pack your bags and map out your itinerary, there's one essential item you don't want to overlook: travel insurance. While getting caught up in the excitement of planning adventures and picking outfits is easy, ensuring you have the right coverage is just as important as remembering your passport.  

To help our insurance experts answer some of our Members' top questions about domestic travel.  

Does provincial insurance cover us for a family trip across Canada, or do we need travel medical insurance?

Many Ontarians mistakenly believe their Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) will fully cover unexpected medical expenses when travelling to another province or territory. While your provincial plan covers some medical care, there are many medical expenses it doesn't include.  

Provincial health plans don't cover services like ambulance rides, prescription medications, or unexpected transportation home. That is why travel insurance is essential; otherwise, you may be responsible for paying out of pocket.  

How can I save on insurance for multiple cross-Canada trips? 

If you're planning multiple trips, a Canada Plan or Multi-Trip Plan ¹ can help you save money while ensuring you're covered.  

Canada Plans offers emergency medical coverage for trips ranging from a few days to nearly a year, providing peace of mind no matter the duration.  

For frequent travellers, Multi-Trip Plans ¹ deliver unlimited emergency medical coverage within Canada for a set period (typically 12 months), making them a convenient choice.  

Looking for more comprehensive protection? The Multi-Trip Vacation Package² combines emergency medical insurance with trip cancellation coverage. It's the perfect solution for avid adventurers seeking complete peace of mind. 

If I get injured on an out-of-province hiking trip, will travel medical insurance help?

Yes, provincial insurance like OHIP covers hospital visits, but it doesn't cover everything outside your home province. Services like ambulance transport, prescriptions, crutches, wheelchairs, and other medical equipment are often excluded.  

If you're hiking and have an accident, costs like emergency airlifts or treatment at rural hospitals can add up fast. OHIP won't cover hospital fees above provincial rates or towing your vehicle. That's why travel medical insurance is essential for hikers, protecting you from unexpected expenses wherever your adventures take you. 

Can trip cancellation insurance help if I get sick before my flight to another province? 

Absolutely. Trip cancellation insurance safeguards your prepaid, non-refundable expenses—flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. Here’s a tip: if you get trip cancellation and interruption insurance within 72 hours of booking your vacation, you’ll also get Cancel For Any Other Reason coverage.   

If you have to cancel your trip for any reason not already listed under the insured risks, CAA’s Cancel For Any Other Reason covers the cost of your non-refundable trip.  If an illness or unforeseen event forces you to cancel, this coverage ensures you're reimbursed for those costs. It provides peace of mind, offering financial protection even when life throws surprises your way. 

Do I need travel insurance for a Canadian road trip? 

It's highly recommended. Travelling outside your home province means stepping beyond the limits of your provincial health coverage.  

Travel medical insurance is both affordable and practical. For instance, a four-day Multi-Trip Plan³ offers unlimited coverage for a full year of travel within Canada. Single-trip plans provide an excellent alternative if you're planning a longer journey.  

Both options safeguard you against unexpected medical expenses. 

Are there insurance options for frequent day trips to places like Gatineau or Montreal? 

A Four-Day Multi-Trip Plan is an excellent choice for frequent travellers taking short trips. The coverage offers year-round coverage and unlimited travel, each lasting up to four days. If travelling within Canada, there is no limit (no top-up required). 

The best part? There's no need to inform your insurer before every trip, making it a hassle-free solution. It's ideal for anyone who frequently travels across provincial borders. 

No matter your travel plans within Canada, having the right insurance keeps your adventures stress-free. We're happy to answer any questions you have about travel insurance. Get a quote here or visit CAA Travel Insurance for more information. 

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.  

1. Emergency Medical Insurance - Multi-Trip 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. 

2. Vacation Packages Plan – Multi-Trip covers 4, 8, 15 or 30 days per trip depending on the plan purchased. Top-Up coverage is available for longer trips. Coverage cannot exceed 365 days from departure date or effective date. There is a maximum travel coverage of 63 days including Top-Up for travellers aged 60 to 84 years of age. 

3. Price of a 4-day Emergency Medical Insurance - Multi-Trip Plan per adult under age 60 with the CAA Member savings. Emergency Medical Insurance - Multi-Trip 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. 

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