6 Essential Travel Insurance Tips

Before leaving the country, find out what travel medical expenses your health insurance will cover. If your health insurance policy provides coverage outside the U.S., it's a good idea to carry your insurance policy identity card.

Many health insurance companies won't pay for your return back home should it be required for medical reasons. Check with your personal health insurer. Medical evacuation can easily cost more than $10,000 depending on your location and medical condition. That's why purchasing comprehensive emergency travel medical insurance is so important. If you're a senior citizen, travel medical insurance is even more crucial: the U.S. social security Medicare program doesn't provide you with coverage for hospital or medical costs outside the U.S.

In case of accident or emergency illness:

Keep the telephone number of your insurer and your policy number handy in case of emergency. Your insurer will guide you through the process of making a claim, and may provide advice to help you through any potential crisis.
Ask for detailed reports
Keep all receipts of tests, prescriptions, etc. as these will be absolutely crucial when you make a claim
File the claim within 90 days of the accident or incident

Most travel health insurance covers medical emergencies and accidents. These are unforeseen circumstances, and coverage does not extend to medical care for a pre-existing illness or condition.

Canadian winters can be cold! Be sure to:

Bring warm, layered clothing so you fully enjoy the snow and other winter activities
Invest in a pair of waterproof boots

If you are travelling in summer, bring:

Shorts and sunscreen to enjoy the warm weather
Sunglasses to protect your eyes against glare
Mosquito repellent especially if you’re camping