Like many people you may ask yourself why you need travel insurance for your next holiday. Here are some common myths and truths.
1. I'm covered under Provincial Heath Care.
The Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada states: "Do not rely on your provincial or territorial health plan to cover costs if you get sick or are injured while abroad. Out-of-country health care can be costly, and your health plan may not cover any medical expenses abroad. It is your responsibility to seek information from your provincial or territorial health authority and to obtain supplementary travel insurance and understand the terms of your policy."
2. My credit card covers my travel insurance.
You may or may not have sufficient coverage through your credit card plan. Contact your credit card company before you travel to clarify the type of coverage your card provides. Ask if you have medical coverage and not just travel accident insurance. Many credit card plans limit the trip lengths and do not provide coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.
3. My employer health coverage includes travel insurance.
Many employer plans don't include trip cancellation or interruption insurance which is recommended. You can likely purchase it on its own as an optional coverage. Also, many plans only provide coverage for the employee. If you are travelling with family members, purchasing a family plan may be your most economical option.
4. Travel insurance is only needed if I travel outside Canada.
Each province has a reciprocal agreement that allows visitors to another province to seek emergency medical treatment without cost, but not all costs are covered (meaning you’re still on the hook for some out-of-pocket costs). Not to mention, trip cancellation and interruption coverage can save you lots of money, even in Canada.
5. Short trips don't require insurance.
The risk of an accident or injury isn’t decreased by the length of time of the trip. An accident can occur as easily on a weekend trip to the United States as on a long trip to Europe. And if the incident requires critical care and the injured person can’t be moved, it could mean a long stay in a foreign hospital before transportation home is possible. That can add up to a financial disaster rather quickly.
6. If it's an emergency, my booking will be refunded by the airline or hotel.
Unfortunately, many hotels, airlines, and attractions simply are not that understanding. Even if the hotel isn’t paid for in advance, cancellation rules could cost you one night or the entire stay. And airline tickets, attraction tickets, and other pre-paid travel plans are rarely refundable. Travel insurance is often the only way to get that money back.
Be sure to check out your options by talking with your UNIGLOBE Travel Consultant about affordable travel insurance options for your next trip!