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How To Choose The Best Travel Insurance For Canada

By Hugo O'Doherty

Updated 6 days ago

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Share article, whether you're planning a temporary visit or temporary move (with a temporary work permit), there are many companies offering travel insurance for canada -- and health insurance as well. but which policy will meet your needs.

Not all travel insurance or health insurance policies are created equal for your stay in Canada. Your plans will dramatically impact the type of coverage you need, so you will need to consider the following (amongst other factors):

The length of your stay.
Which provinces and territories you plan to visit.
Your age and health status.
Your planned activities while you stay (snow sports and other adventure sports may require specific coverage).
Any supplementary coverage you might need.
Whether you need specific insurance to receive your work permit .

It’s important that you find coverage that’s tailored, meets your needs, and is affordable.

What you'll find on this page

Start your IEC working holiday with a free Moving2Canada account

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Do you have IEC health insurance?

What’s the difference between travel insurance for canada vs. health insurance.

Health insurance is designed specifically to cover medical expenses. Travel insurance can cover a range of different costs, which may include things like trip cancellation, lost luggage, medical costs, and repatriation. Notably, some travel insurance packages actually include health insurance coverage, so you may not need to buy them separately.

Health Insurance for Permanent Residents in Canada

If you are moving to Canada through a permanent residence program, you may eventually enjoy publicly-funded healthcare in Canada — but you won’t be covered for the first few months after landing. The reason for this is that it often takes a few months for your provincial or territorial health coverage to kick in. This means that you should consider health insurance for these first months in case of any emergencies.

Health Insurance for Temporary Residents in Canada

While you may get coverage in the province or territory you settle in, you may also need to wait several months for the coverage to kick in if you are moving to Canada on a study permit or on a work permit (with some exceptions, see below). It’s important for you and your family, if applicable, to get quality health insurance for those early months, both Cigna Global and BestQuote are leaders in these policies. Get a quote from Cigna and a quote from BestQuote to begin comparing your options.

IEC Work Permit

If you’re participating in the IEC Working Holiday Visa in Canada program, you are required to have health insurance that covers the full duration of your work permit and insurance that will cover repatriation costs. Oftentimes, you can purchase a package for travel insurance for Canada which will cover all IEC requirements, including for health insurance.

You need this insurance even if you become eligible for provincial healthcare and medical cover from your employment in due course.

We always recommend beginning with BestQuote as they will offer you a comparison of rates for many different options on the market. Get your free quote from BestQuote today.

Quick note: British Columbia and Alberta are world-famous for skiing and snowboarding. If you want to hit the slopes, make certain your Canadian travel insurance policy contains coverage for any potential injuries.

Where will you be buying your travel insurance or health insurance for Canada?

Where you are in the world impacts the insurers that will be available to you. Scroll through the insurers below to see if they’re available in your current region:

BestQuote Travel Insurance

Best Quote Travel Insurance is a full-service Canadian travel insurance broker offering the widest selection of travel insurance plans for visitors to Canada. Available plans may include health coverage, coverage for up to 24 months, and coverage related to pre-existing medical conditions. Plans are available before or after leaving home . Get your quote from BestQuote today !

Best Quote Travel Insurance is available to travellers currently in:

The rest of Europe
New Zealand
The rest of the world.

True Traveller

True Traveller is a popular option for Europeans seeking mandatory insurance for International Experience Canada (IEC), including the Working Holiday program. True Traveller’s IEC insurance covers medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation, and it exceeds IRCC’s mandatory requirements. Get your quote from True Traveller today !

True Traveller policies are available to people currently in:

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

One company of choice for Australian IEC participants seeking travel insurance for Canada. Options for 12 and 24 months, and a range of products from medical only to comprehensive, snow sports, and adventure activities. Duo policies, for couples or two friends travelling together, get 5% off. Get a quote from Fast Cover , only available for individuals currently in Australia.

Have You Already Left Your Country of Residence?

If you are already travelling, you will have more limited options for coverage. Many insurers will only cover people who buy the coverage before they leave for their travels.

Best Quote is one insurer that offers coverage for travellers who have already left for their travels. We recommend seeking a quote from Best Quote if this applies to you.

Get A Free Quote

Cigna Global

Permanent residence applicants may want insurance during the waiting period for provincial coverage or to cover extras after landing in Canada for additional peace of mind.

Expatriate health insurance ensures access to the best possible healthcare while living and working abroad. Cigna Global is a leader in these policies and provides 12-month cover for those moving to Canada, regardless of nationality or age.

Click here to get a free online quote.

Why IEC work permit holders need health insurance (and may want travel insurance for Canada)

1. It’s mandatory for IEC work permits.

Every year, we hear countless stories from people who aren’t issued with an IEC work permit because they didn’t buy Canadian health insurance. The rules clearly state that you must have insurance for the full duration of your work permit (e.g. two years).

2. You can’t buy a short policy, and then extend it later.

Again, the rules are clear: you can’t buy a three-month policy and agree to extend it to a two-year policy just to appease the immigration officer.

For example, if you only buy health insurance on a three-month or six-month policy, then the immigration officer is within their rights to issue only a three-month or six-month visa. This cannot be extended at a later date.

3. Provincial insurance doesn’t give the coverage you need.

Provincial insurance that’s on offer is not accepted as adequate by federal immigration officers. This is because it will not cover repatriation costs, i.e. flying you to your home country in the event of death.

Other costs not included in provincial cover included: dental accidents, ambulance, medications, medical devices like casts and crutches, and trips to the US and Mexico. BestQuote has these options and will enable you to compare rates from many different insurance providers. Get your quote from BestQuote today !

4. Nobody likes paying for insurance, but the alternative could be a lot worse.

You buy insurance in case the worst happens. Often, we feel it’s a waste if that big event does not happen. As an adult, we encourage you to be responsible, as your family would not appreciate a $20,000 hospital bill in the event of serious injury or death and your repatriation home.

Where to next?

Get your Canadian adventure off to the best start! Download our free Getting Started Guide magazine .
Learn how to shop around: see our 7 easy questions to ask your travel insurance provider article.
Find work in construction and engineering. Visit our Outpost Recruitment agency .

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Best IEC Travel Insurance: Our Best Travel Insurance for Canada 2024

By: Author Sunset Travellers

Posted on Last updated: January 12, 2024

Categories Canada , Travel

In this post, we cover the Best IEC Travel Insurance: Our Best Travel Insurance for Canada – IEC Working Holiday Insurance.

If you’re moving to Canada under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, you NEED to take out the right IEC health insurance policy.

After you receive your POE (point of entry) letter, it’s time to find the best travel insurance for Canada. Trust us, we spent a few weeks researching and trying to find the best one. So, having spent two years on our own IEC visa in Canada, we decided to share our travel insurance recommendations so you can pick the best option for you.

So, what is the best IEC Travel Insurance you recommend?

Loved these views in Vancouver!

You can read further down about why we chose these companies and what the guidelines are from the Canadian government. Based on all the important factors, we have found these companies to have the best travel insurance for Canada:

True Traveller (for Europe and UK residents)
Fast Cover insurance (for Australian residents)
BestQuote Travel Insurance (for all nationalities, pre or post-departure)

There are a lot of companies out there which can make things quite hard when choosing the appropriate travel insurance for your Working Holiday Visa in Canada. Depending on the country you are from, your IEC visa might be approved for one or two years. For example, Steve has received a two-year work permit with an Irish passport. Sabina, with a Polish passport, was able to receive a work permit that was valid for one year only.

But thankfully, I have dual citizenship and got approved for a second IEC visa with my other passport. Otherwise, I was unable to stay for two years with Steve in Canada.

We have used these companies not only personally but also in our IEC Facebook group .

Navigating Insurance Requirements for the 2024 IEC Working Holiday:

Understanding the correct insurance for your 2024 IEC Working Holiday in Canada can be a bit perplexing. In the past, even the Canadian Government referred to the necessary coverage as ‘travel insurance’ in its communications with IEC applicants. This terminology led many insurance providers and information sources to promote travel insurance policies specifically for IEC participants.

However, the Government’s recent communications have shifted to a more precise term: IEC health insurance. This change aligns more closely with the actual requirements, as the essential coverage you need is health-related, not just general travel insurance. We’ll delve into the specifics of this coverage in the following section.

Despite this clarification, some insurance providers might still market their policies as IEC travel insurance. But, often, these policies are essentially health insurance. It’s crucial, therefore, to thoroughly examine any policy you’re considering to ensure it meets the specific health coverage requirements for your IEC Working Holiday.

This is why we worked hard to double-check with these companies that they are acceptable as the IEC travel insurance.

So, if you are coming from:

True Traveller Insurance

A favourite (and the one we used!) among Europeans for the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, including the Working Holiday initiative, True Traveller stands out for its comprehensive coverage. Our IEC-specific insurance not only meets but exceeds IRCC requirements, encompassing medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation. Trust True Traveller for your IEC journey – get your quote today!

BestQuote , a premier Canadian travel insurance broker, offers an extensive range of travel insurance options tailored for visitors to Canada. Our plans, which can be obtained either before or after departure, may cover health-related needs, extend up to 24 months, and even include pre-existing medical conditions. Secure your peace of mind with BestQuote’s comprehensive travel insurance plans – get your quote now!

Australia And New Zealand IEC insurance cover 🦘 :

Fast Cover(AUSTRALIA ONLY) is the go-to insurance provider for Australian participants in the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. Catering to your travel needs in Canada, we offer flexible policies for both 12 and 24 months. Our diverse range includes everything from basic medical to comprehensive coverage, as well as specialized options for snow sports and adventure activities. Travelling as a couple or with a friend? Our Duo policies offer a 5% discount for pairs. Start your Canadian adventure with confidence – get a quote from Fast Cover today.

BestQuote (NZ + AUSTRALIA) works for Australians as it is a premier Canadian travel insurance broker that offers an extensive range of travel insurance options tailored for visitors to Canada . Our plans, which can be obtained either before or after departure, may cover health-related needs, extend up to 24 months, and even include pre-existing medical conditions. Secure your peace of mind with BestQuote’s comprehensive travel insurance plans – get your quote now!

Rest of the world:

BestQuote is a premier Canadian travel insurance broker that offers an extensive range of travel insurance options tailored for visitors to Canada . Our plans, which can be obtained either before or after departure, may cover health-related needs, extend up to 24 months, and even include pre-existing medical conditions. Secure your peace of mind with BestQuote’s comprehensive travel insurance plans – get your quote now!

The International Experience Canada website states the following requirements:

For an iec working holiday visa in canada , you must have health insurance for the entire time you are in canada..

Therefore, we both needed 24-month insurance for Canada. If we were to get travel insurance for Canada for any shorter period than our intended stay, we would have received a work permit only valid until our insurance is.

This rule applies to everyone.

It is very important to get the appropriate travel insurance for Canada.

If you get asked at the border for proof of your travel insurance, make sure that it is valid for the entire duration of your intended stay.

Many people get only six months or one year of insurance and receive shortened work permits. When choosing the best travel insurance for your IEC visa in Canada, make sure that it also covers all the government requirements .

The Best Travel Insurance for Canada: IEC Working Holiday

As per the IEC rules , health insurance must cover you for the following:

medical care
hospitalisation and
repatriation (returning you to your country in the event of severe illness, injury or death).

If you go to Canada without appropriate IEC travel insurance, your work permit might be shortened and/or you might be refused one entirely.

A note from the government website :

“ We recommend you buy this insurance only after you receive your port of entry (POE) letter of introduction. We can’t recommend specific insurance companies or plans, but you can search online for something that meets your needs. You may be refused entry if you don’t have insurance. If your insurance policy is valid for less time than your expected stay in Canada, your work permit may expire at the same time as your insurance .”

Provincial Canadian healthcare or medical cover from your employment typically does not cover repatriation costs.

After you land your dream job, it takes time to get enrolled in the healthcare system, and there’s usually a cool-off period.

Therefore, you need to get separate 2-year travel insurance for Canada.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking you will be fine without one. We personally know a few people who decided to get the most basic insurance and ended up in a hospital with a broken bone and a huge medical bill to take care of. Many companies have policies built especially for the IEC visa, but it is essential to find the best travel insurance for Canada suitable for you.

We had to do our research based on several criteria and important inclusions.

What is the best IEC travel insurance?

That great feeling when you are fully insured!

Great question!

Depending on where you are travelling from and what you want to do in Canada, there will be certain criteria you might be looking for.

Based on all the important factors, we have found these companies to have the best travel insurance for Canada:

There are a lot of companies on the market, but based on our own experience and friends’ recommendations, these are the best companies to go with.

When choosing your coverage, there are a few important questions you need to ask the insurance company before buying your 24-month travel insurance for Canada.

Let’s face it: 24 months is a LONG time, and you don’t want to pick the wrong company!

Buying the best travel insurance for Canada

Along with the Canadian government rules, there are a few different things you might want to consider when choosing your insurance.

To put it simply, these are the most common things you want to check before buying IEC travel insurance:

What is the level of my coverage?

If you are planning to hit the slopes or go hiking or kayaking, make sure that your insurance covers you. Most insurance companies will have an additional premium for covering you for extra activities. Who knew that cage shark diving isn’t included in the basic cover!?

Am I covered for trips outside of Canada?

Travelling to the US, Central America, or any location outside of Canada might not be covered by some companies. If you are planning to explore the world, check if the places you are heading to while in Canada are covered. BestQuote has options to include trips outside of Canada to the USA, Mexico or elsewhere.

What is your policy if you wish to take a trip back home for a holiday?

Some insurers have a limit on trips to your home country, others only allow a couple, and some enable unlimited trips back and forth. Whether you plan to stay in Canada or visit home regularly, find out how your insurer covers you for home visits.

True Traveller , for example, allows you to go home as many times as you like!

Is there any excess?

You need to know how much you have to put out of your pocket to make a claim. The best coverages are no excess ones- but usually, you will have to pay a bit more for these.

Are your items and luggage covered?

It is critical for the company to cover you in case of luggage delay, bags lost by the carrier in transit (it happens!), stolen luggage, stolen passports etc.

Are you covered for activities like winter sports?

While we didn’t plan on snowboarding when we first landed in Vancouver, we were glad we opted for the additional cover when we decided to try snowboarding. We ended up doing a whole winter season in Whistler, and True Traveller completely covered us! You might also want to hike the Rocky Mountains , so make sure to get the right cover.

Whether the policy can be started abroad if you are already travelling elsewhere.

Most insurers are limited to only covering those who haven’t left home yet.

How do I contact the insurance company in case of an emergency in Canada and abroad?

Save the phone number on our phone as soon as you purchase your coverage.

So what are the best two-year IEC travel insurance options and why?

Relaxing again because kayaking is included in your policy.

Before you get overwhelmed with contacting every travel insurance company asking the above questions, we have done the hard work for you.

If you prefer to do your own research, remember that buying the cheapest travel insurance for Canada usually isn’t a good idea.

Cheap insurance will have a lot of coverage limits, and keep in mind this is the next two years of your life!

The best travel insurance options for Canada

Flying high over Toronto!

True Traveller – Available for EU citizens (including the UK)

These guys have been incredible, and we have continued to use them as we travel around the world. They offer you not only unlimited trips home but also fantastic coverage.

Travel insurance policies with True Traveller are available for up to 24 months, which covers you for the entire duration of your visa!

Winter sports coverage is available, and there are no minimum residency requirements.

You can claim while you’re still in Canada, as there is no need to wait to return home.

True Traveller covers you for over 92 activities on their standard cover.

These include bungee jumping, horse riding, safari touring, scuba diving to 18 meters and lots more activities you may end up doing on your trip.

For those extreme travellers out there, you can easily add more options at very reasonable prices.

We both used them for our 2-year IEC travel insurance and always recommended them to others.

We found True Traveller, the best and cheapest IEC insurance for Canada from Europe .

Get a quote here for your IEC travel insurance.

Couple talking in the snow about what travel insurance company they went with

“Oh, so you went with Fast cover to!? Woo”

Fast Cover – Available for Australians

Our family, friends and many other people we met who have come from Australia went with Fast Cover.

They offer initial cover for 12 months but then it can be easily extended for another 12 months on the day of departure.

This totals the full 24 months needed for the IEC working holiday for Australians.

You simply purchase the first 12 months of travel insurance, and then you can log in and purchase the next 12 months.

Simply log in to the ‘Your Policy’ section of their website and extend it up to the full two years.

They also allow unlimited trips home, and it is not necessary to have a return ticket home in order to submit your claim.

Winter sports cover is also available, and their basic cover includes a whole host of activities!

Also worth noting is that their Ski & Snowboarding cover is one of the best we have ever seen!

They even include off-piste activities, which are often not included.

Fast Cover policies also include 24-hour overseas emergency assistance for IEC travellers.

Whale watching in Vancouver!

BestQuote Travel Insurance

With BestQuote , you can view and compare the best insurance options available for your IEC visa.

We really like them as their website is very clear and you can easily view and compare insurance prices, benefits, refund policies and much more.

Simply start your quote by:

choosing the dates of your intended stay in Canada,
adding any additional countries, you wish to visit
indicating the number of travellers included in the cover
adding dates of birth
filling your email address

And your quote will appear instantly!

BestQuote Travel Insurance also offers several IEC policies that allow for up to two years of coverage.

Whether you are from Ireland, Australia, the UK, France, Portugal or New Zealand (max 23 months), you can get covered for the two years of your IEC visa.

The BestQuote policy is issued through Lloyd’s Underwriters and has been specifically designed for IEC travellers (which means peace of mind for you).

With BestQuote, you get the required health and repatriation benefits.

They also include basic skiing/snowboarding cover and allow unlimited trips outside of Canada for up to 35 days.

Final tips for Working Holiday Insurance for Canada ( th e small print)

Finding travel insurance for canada.

While we have used most of the companies above, it is always worth spending that little bit extra just to read the fine print.

It is important to pick the IEC travel insurance provider and policy that is right for you.

As we mentioned above, you will be with them for the next 12 to 24 months, so it is worth spending that little bit of extra time to read through everything.

Please always double-check cover details directly with your insurance policy provider, as any of the above information may change at any time.

Thank you so much for reading, and if you have any questions at all, please reach out to us!

You will also find a great selection of useful links and discounts on other services below:

If you need more info on moving to Canada, make sure to check out our Canada posts here .

Like what you are reading? Pin the image below!

Thanks for stopping by

Steve and Sabina

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

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Sunset Travellers

Sunday 13th of October 2019

Thanks a lot for letting us know!

Gerphil Galleto

Good day! I already found a travel insurance company they said that if something happens on me at work in canada they can't cover anything that happened to me because of my work. Is this reasonable from Insurance company?

Hi Gerphil,

Travel insurance is not a health insurance. It's designed for emergencies only. Once you are in Canada you most likely will be able to get health insurance via your employer. Best of luck!

Canada Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for canada: a guide for us travelers .

From exploring Banff National Park's breathtaking landscapes to experiencing Toronto's vibrant culture or the historic sites of Quebec City, Canada offers a wide range of popular locations and activities. However, before you dive into your adventure, there's a crucial detail to address: securing your travel insurance.

Discover all the ins and outs of travel insurance for Canada in this guide. We've got you covered with details on costs, requirements, essential coverage, COVID-19 restrictions, and some handy tips for your trip.

What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Canada?

How does travel insurance work for canada, do i need travel insurance for canada , how much does travel insurance cost for canada .

Travel Insurance Requirements for Canada

Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for US Visitors?

Are there any required travel vaccinations for canada , traveling with pre-existing medical conditions , our suggested axa travel protection plan .

At a minimum, your travel insurance to Canada should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. Regarding international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage. AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind.

Medical Coverage – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.
Trip Cancellation & Interruptions – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.
Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.
Coverage for Personal Belongings – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.
Optional Cancel for Any Reason – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons. Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders.

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for Canada.

Let’s say you’re exploring Ottawa's stunning architecture or skiing down Banff's slopes with AXA Travel Protection. If you were to fall ill or face an unexpected travel hiccup, AXA Travel Protection steps in to help support you. Whether assisting in medical transportation or finding the best alternative for a trip delay, AXA Travel Protection ensures you’re supported in your time of need.

How AXA Travel Protection Can Benefit Visitors to Canada

Here’s the entire list of benefits travelers can have access to with an AXA Travel Protection Plan:

Medical Benefits:

Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees.
Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation.
Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms.

Baggage Benefits:

Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries.
Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings.

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits:

Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury.
COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions.
Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations.

Additional Optional Travel Benefits:

Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft.
Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy.
Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures.
Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures.

Americans aren't required to purchase domestic or international travel insurance to visit Canada. But it’s still highly recommended to have a travel insurance plan before embarking on your next trip.

Why? There are several reasons:

Medical Emergencies: Your health is a top priority. If you face a sudden illness or injury in Canada, travel insurance offers the means to receive prompt and quality medical care.
Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.
Flight Delays: Travel disruptions like flight delays can happen. If you miss a connecting flight or incur additional expenses due to delays, travel insurance can help cover the costs.

In general, travel insurance to Canada costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans:

Total Trip cost: The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc.
Age: Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals.

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to Canada will be offered three tiers of insurance: Silver, Gold , and Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs.

Travel Insurance requirements for Canada

Travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers coming to Canada, but having coverage for medical emergencies is a smart move. It's also worth checking if your visa, entry requirements, or tour operator call for extra coverage.

As of October 2023, Canada has eliminated all COVID-19 entry requirements. However, it's crucial to be mindful of your health. If you develop COVID-19 symptoms before your trip, consider postponing your travel plans to Canada. Having Cancel for Any Reason as part of your travel insurance plan becomes invaluable in such a scenario. This optional benefit provides the flexibility to cancel your trip, even for a reason beyond standard coverage.

Canada does not have specific vaccine requirements for travelers. However, due to COVID-19, travel requirements may change from time to time. Stay up-to-date on vaccine requirements and recommendations by consulting official sources such as the Government of Canada's website.

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip. Our Gold and Platinum plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. The Platinum plan, in particular, is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons,

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plans with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We're here to ensure you travel easily, no matter your health situation.

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the Silver Plan , Gold Plan , and Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that Canadian hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses.

The Platinum Plan is your go-to choice if you're looking for extra coverage aligned with the Canadian experience. " Cancel for Any Reason " offers greater flexibility for those unexpected twists in your travel plans and the " Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver) " offers assistance when you're out exploring Canada's stunning landscapes in a rental car.

Additionally, part of the Platinum Plan is the " Lost Skier Days " benefit, offering potential reimbursement if ski resorts unexpectedly close due to ever-changing snow conditions. These perks make the Platinum Plan an excellent option for anyone seeking comprehensive protection during their exciting Canadian adventures.

FAQs about Canada Travel Insurance

1. can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight .

Absolutely, travelers have the option to purchase travel insurance for Canada after they've booked their flights.

It's advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.) AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip. Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14 days of making your initial trip deposit.

2. Do US citizens need travel insurance to Canada?

Travel insurance to Canada from the USA is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. While Canada’s healthcare system is fantastic, it might not cover all your medical expenses as a non-resident and medical bills can add up fast.

3. What type of medical conditions does AXA Travel Protection cover? AXA covers three types of medical expenses:

Emergency medical expenses
Emergency evacuation & repatriation
Non-medical emergency evacuation & repatriation

Emergency medical expenses are unexpected incidents that arise, such as broken bones, burns, unexpected illnesses, and allergic reactions. Emergency evacuation and repatriation can cover your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness. Non-medical emergency evacuation and repatriation can cover evacuation assistance when you immediately leave a destination for non-medical-related events. These could be things like natural disasters or civil unrest.

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions. AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.

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Trip interruption and travel health insurance

If you plan to travel outside Canada—even for a day in the United States—you should buy trip interruption and travel health insurance before you leave.

Your medical bills may not be paid by your personal Canadian health insurance
Your provincial or territorial health plan may cover none, or only a small part, of the costs of your medical care abroad including a medical evacuation, if needed. It will never pay your bills up front
Hospitals and clinics in other countries can be very expensive and may require immediate cash payment
In some countries, hospitals and clinics will not treat you if you don’t have enough insurance or money to pay your bills
The Government of Canada will not pay your medical bills

What your travel health insurance should cover

No matter where you’re travelling, your travel health insurance policy should always cover 3 things:

1. Medical evacuation

Make sure your policy covers medical evacuation to Canada or to the nearest place with medical care. The policy should also cover the costs of a medical escort to travel with you to your destination.

2. Pre-existing medical conditions

Ask the insurance provider to explain the definition of and the limitations and restrictions on any pre-existing conditions and tests and treatments you may have had:

Make sure you get a written agreement that your insurance covers your pre-existing medical condition, otherwise you could find your claim “null and void” under a pre-existing condition clause.
no changes to your medical condition
no new medical conditions, symptoms or medications during the stability period before your trip.
a compassion clause saying that an inaccurate statement may not invalidate the entire policy
a change-of-health clause.

3. Repatriation in case of death

Make sure that your plan includes everything to help your loved ones if you die outside Canada as the result of an accident or a sudden and unexpected illness.

Your insurance should cover:

the preparation and return of your remains
local cremation or burial outside Canada
additional expenses if someone needs to travel to identify your body

Learn more about what to do if a Canadian dies outside Canada.

Why you should buy trip interruption insurance

Trip interruption insurance is different from medical travel insurance. Trip interruption insurance provides coverage for situations that lead you to have to cancel a part of your trip once you’ve departed. It will reimburse the unused portion of your trip if you must return early, due to an unforeseen incident.

It’s also different from trip cancellation coverage, which applies only when you cancel your trip before it starts.

Research your needs. Verify the terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and requirements of your insurance policy before you leave Canada.

When assessing a travel health insurance plan, you should ask a lot of questions:

Plans with 100% coverage are more expensive but may save you money in the long run
Does the plan offer continuous coverage for the length of your stay outside Canada and after your return?
Does the plan exclude or limit coverage for certain regions or countries you may visit?
Travel health insurance rarely covers routine health checkups, non-emergency care or cosmetic surgery.
It may not cover mental health disorders.
Does the plan cover drug or alcohol-related incidents?
Does the plan exclude coverage for activities such as mountaineering, skiing, scuba diving or extreme sports?
Does it offer coverage that is renewable from abroad and for the maximum period of stay?
Does the company have an in-house, worldwide, 24-hour/7-day emergency contact number in English and/or translation services for health care providers in your destination country?
Does it pay for hospitalization for illness or injury and related medical costs at your destination?
Does it pay your bills or provide cash advances up front, so you don’t have to pay them?

If you’re driving, make sure you have driver and vehicle coverage in case you have an accident.

If you’re flying, make sure you get insurance for trip interruption, lost luggage and document replacement. You may also want to consider trip cancellation insurance.

Meet the terms of your policy

It’s your responsibility to know and understand the terms of your insurance policy. Read the fine print and ask for help if you need it.

The information you provide must be accurate and complete. If you have any questions, contact the insurance company. Ask them to send you a written explanation.

Carry your insurance information with you and leave a copy with a friend or relative at home.

Get a detailed report and invoice from your doctor or hospital before leaving the country where you received medical treatment. Trying to get the proper paperwork from thousands of kilometres away can be frustrating.

Always submit the original receipts for medical services or prescriptions you received abroad. Keep a copy of the documents for your files.

Effects of travel advisories on travel insurance policies

Many travel insurance policies will not cover you if you travel to regions where the Government of Canada has issued a travel advisory to “avoid all non-essential travel” or “avoid all travel.”

The Government of Canada is not responsible for travel insurance policies nor how Travel Advice and Advisories may affect travel insurance policies. The Government of Canada does not issue its Travel Advice and Advisories for the purpose of travel insurance coverage or refunds.

Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories provide information and recommendations about safety and security conditions in destinations around the world to help you make informed decisions.

We issue travel advisories when the security or health situation in a country or region may pose a significant threat to the personal safety and security of Canadians travelling or living there.

As new information becomes available, we review the level of risk. A travel advisory for a destination may be issued, upgraded, downgraded or removed.

Before you book your trip and buy insurance, check the details of any insurance policy you’re considering and the travel advice and advisories for your destination.

Travel insurance is not intended to be used when you are living outside Canada for an extended period, or permanently.

If you live abroad or you’re planning to, consider your insurance needs. Local laws may require that you have medical insurance, and you may have to include proof of medical insurance with your visa application.

If you study outside Canada

If you study or plan to study outside Canada, contact your educational institution or program administrator for advice on the insurance coverage you need.

The Government of Canada is limited in the help it can provide you when you are outside Canada.

See the services available at our consular offices outside Canada.

Our travel advice and advisories provide recommendations about safety and security conditions outside Canada to help you make informed decisions. The decision to travel is yours and you’re responsible for your personal safety abroad.

Whether you are planning a vacation or living outside Canada, sign up for the free Registration of Canadians Abroad service so that we can notify you in case of an emergency outside Canada.

For help with emergencies outside Canada, contact the:

nearest Canadian office abroad
Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa

Top Travel Insurances for Canada You Should Know in 2024

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Canada is a massive country known for its natural splendour, including the Rocky Mountains, the Northern Lights, and Niagara Falls, as well as its energetic cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Although travelling to Canada can be an accessible holiday destination for many people, out-the-pocket healthcare costs in the country tend to be expensive, so it's a very good idea to arrive there with travel insurance under your belt.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to Canada and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young travellers, adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats.

Canada Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for Canada:

Best Travel Insurances for Canada

01. Should I get travel insurance for Canada? scroll down
02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
05. FAQ about travel insurance to Canada scroll down

Heading to Canada soon? Don't forget to check the following list before you travel:

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💬 Want to learn the local language? Babbel and italki are two excellent apps to think about.
💻 Want a VPN? ExpressVPN is the market leader for anonymous and secure browsing.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Canada?

No, there's currently no legal requirement to take out travel insurance for travel to or through Canada.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to Canada or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for Canada:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms, VisitorsCoverage is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for travellers going abroad to Canada. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to Canada, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel disruptions. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

Coverage 9.0
Quality of Service 9.0
Pricing 7.6
Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for Canada:

Policy names: Varies
Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /traveller /month
Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another very good travel insurance option, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

Coverage 7.8
Quality of Service 8.5
Pricing 7.4
Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month
Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for younger travellers or digital nomads because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

Coverage 7.0
Quality of Service 8.0
Pricing 6.3
Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /traveller /month
Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travellers

How Do They Compare?

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to Canada? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 4/1/2024

FAQ About Travel Insurance to Canada

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

No, you'll not be required to take out travel insurance for Canada. However, we strongly encourage you to do so anyway, because the cost of healthcare in Canada can be high, and taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself if you need medical attention during your stay.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to travellers worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the traveller, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent travellers.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

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Should you get travel insurance for Canada? Here are 7 frequently asked questions about travel insurance to help you decide!

FAQs: 7 Questions to Ask When Choosing Travel Insurance for Canada

Many of us spend years saving up for a trip abroad and spend countless hours planning every detail of our trip itinerary. What we don’t prepare for is an unexpected pandemic or a luggage bag that suddenly grew legs and disappeared.

Things don't always go as planned and we learned this the hard way in 2020. While we can’t predict the future, we can definitely minimize the damage with a good travel insurance policy. So, if you’re planning to travel to Canada as a tourist, worker, student, or even if you’re a new permanent resident, you might want to consider getting travel insurance for your own peace of mind.

Don’t be left in the dark when it comes to finding the best insurance for your trip. Here are 7 questions to ask when choosing travel insurance for Canada.

7 Frequently Asked Questions About Canadian Travel Insurance

concept booking travel insurance on wooden background | Travel Insurance for Canada

FAQ 1. What is Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is a policy that you select and purchase from a travel insurance company to cover you from certain financial losses during your trip. Losses can be minor like delayed baggage to significant losses like injuring yourself while hiking in Banff National Park, and, needing 20 stitches! There is nothing that can quite put a damper on your holiday like unexpected medical bills overseas.

In most scenarios, travel insurance reimburses you for your covered financial losses after you file a claim and the claim is approved.

FAQ 2. Do I Need Travel Insurance for Canada?

It really depends on your reasons for traveling to Canada. If you’re planning to explore the country as a tourist with a visitor visa then the choice is really up to you. Most visitors consider travel insurance a worthwhile investment, especially if they're undertaking high risk activities like skiing at Whistler Blackcomb.

It’s important to note that your medical provider at home may not cover you overseas and you also won’t be covered by the free public healthcare system in Canada if you do have a medical emergency. Only some work permit holders, international students and permanent residents can access free healthcare in Canada.

Learn more: Can Non-Citizens Get Healthcare in Canada?

On the other hand, if you participate in an IEC Program in Canada , including the Working Holiday, Co-Op, and, Young Professionals categories then you must get Canadian travel insurance as a strict requirement. Many applicants are rejected purely because they didn’t get travel insurance for the full duration of their work permit that ranges from one to two years.

While provinces like British Columbia offer free healthcare to IEC work permit holders, it won’t be accepted by immigration officers because it doesn’t cover things like repatriation costs.

Lastly, if you’re a new permanent resident of Canada then you might want to look at getting private health insurance until you qualify to apply for a provincial health insurance card. The waiting period is usually three months.

FAQ 3. What Should Travel Insurance Cover?

Suitcases in airport departure lounge, airplane in background, summer vacation concept, traveler suitcases in airport terminal waiting area

Different travel insurance packages will cover different individual needs so you would have to find a package that meets all your travel requirements. For example, planning a trip that involves many high-risk activities and travel within a few provinces of Canada would require a different travel insurance package to one which would be required for a quiet Montreal holiday. Depending on your package, below is a list of items your package could cover. You, of course, would need to verify this with your insurance company.

Types of Coverage

Delayed or lost baggage;
Natural disasters;
Pre-existing health conditions;
Stolen passport;
Travel health insurance for medical emergencies;
International health plans;
Trip cancelation;
Repatriation; and

FAQ 4. What is the Best Travel Insurance for Canada?

You can buy travel insurance through travel agents, insurance brokers, and even your credit card company may offer limited insurance coverage. To get the best policy for the right price it’s a good idea to request a few quotes from different insurance providers to consider all your options. There are some insurance providers like Best Quote Travel Insurance that offer packages that are tailored for specific visa programs like the IEC. This means you won’t have to add additional coverage or pay for something that you won’t need.

FAQ 5. How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

You can purchase a once-off insurance policy or if you’re a frequent visitor to Canada, you can get a more expensive annual cover that will pay out quickly. Your travel insurance premium will depend on a few factors such as your age, your trip duration, pre-existing medical conditions, your smoker status, and your policy type (single trip vs multiple trips). The overall cost of your trip will also be taken into consideration. So, an all-inclusive 21-day Canadian tour will be more expensive to insure than a trip to Canada without a lot of prepaid expenses. According to Business Insider, the average cost of travel insurance is $111.

FAQ 6: How Does COVID-19 Affect Travel Insurance?

two-woman-with-masks-elbow-greeting-travel-to-canada

Thousands of unexpected canceled trips and COVID-19 infections have led to a surge in demand for travel insurance. Previously, a pandemic was not considered an insured event by some insurance providers. So, it’s extremely important to choose travel insurance for Canada that offers COVID-related coverage. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) is a popular insurance option for travelers amidst the pandemic that reimburses between 50%-75% of travel costs, depending on the policy.

FAQ 7. What Are the Cons of Travel Insurance?

When it comes to travel insurance, it’s important to read the terms and conditions and be very clear about the specific coverage of your policy. It’s not unheard of that a policy refuses to pay out because of certain clauses or insured events that you were not aware of.

When Do Canada’s Travel Restrictions End?

Hipster young girl with backpack enjoying sunset on peak of foggy mountain | Canada’s Travel Restrictions

Canada has extended its travel restrictions until May 21, 2021, for all countries. It’s not the first time that Canada changed the date that will allow entry to visitors for non-discretionary purposes. This is even more reason to protect your paid-for expenses such as flight tickets and hotel accommodation with the help of a great travel insurance policy.

What Else Do You Need to Travel to Canada?

Besides travel insurance, you’ll also need a visa to enter Canada. The type of visa you need to apply for depends on what you want to do in the country. For example, if you’re planning to visit family then you’ll need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization . Or if you want to work in Canada then you’ll need a Canadian work permit which will be issued along with a temporary resident visa. Canada has over 100 immigration and visa programs that make it possible for you to enter the country and participate in many activities or call Canada your permanent home!

Need a Visa? Apply Today!

Get your visa for Canada easier and quicker by applying through CanadianVisa.org . We specialize in assisting our international clients to identify a visa program that’s right for their needs and take care of the entire application process on their behalf!

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Travel insurance

Travel insurance for Canada

Mandy Sleight

Alyce Meserve

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Heidi Gollub

Updated 5:04 a.m. UTC Jan. 25, 2024

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Lucky-photographer, Getty Images

Travel insurance can cover injuries or illnesses while you’re traveling in Canada, as your domestic health insurance may not travel with you across the border.
The best travel insurance for Canada will also cover costs associated with trip cancellation, delay and interruption.
If you plan to travel with high-value items like a laptop, smartphone or camera, ensure the travel insurance you buy has enough per-item coverage for lost, damaged or stolen belongings.

Many U.S. travelers flock to our northern neighbor to take in Canada’s cultural experiences and stunning remote landscapes. While travel insurance isn’t a requirement to enter Canada, it may be worth purchasing for the benefits, like medical insurance, trip cancellation and baggage coverage.

“Even if Canada doesn’t feel too far from the U.S., being out of the country can be stressful, and any unexpected costs that get in your way, from lost baggage to getting sick or injured, can make any mishaps even more upsetting,” said Daniel Durazo, spokesperson for Allianz Global Assistance. “With the right travel insurance policy, you can ease your mind from unexpected travel scenarios or outrageous out-of-pocket bills.”

Here’s what you should consider when buying travel insurance for Canada.

Understanding travel insurance for Canada

Understanding Canada travel insurance can make choosing a policy easier. Compare plans to see which policies meet your travel needs. For example, some plans have exclusions for adventure activities, such as rock climbing without equipment, but may offer an adventure sports bundle as an upgrade.

There are also various limitations on medical coverages, trip delay, trip interruption and trip cancellation benefits that could make one policy better than another for your Canada trip.

It’s best to buy travel insurance soon after making your first trip deposit. This way you’re covered for a longer period, at no additional cost.

“Travel insurance policies typically only cover unknown and unforeseen situations, from unexpected injuries or illness to flight cancellations and weather-related events,” said Durazo. “If you wait until you have a problem, you likely won’t be covered.”

Buying travel insurance coverage within 14 days of your first trip deposit ensures you get the most benefits. Depending on the plan, buying early could also make you eligible for a pre-existing condition waiver. This means the insurance provider won’t look back at your medical records if you file a claim for a medical condition you already had before buying the policy.

But if you have a trip coming up soon, don’t worry — you can buy a travel insurance policy up to 24 hours before your departure date.

Key coverage considerations for travel insurance in Canada

The best travel insurance plans bundle together several types of insurance, from trip cancellation insurance to travel medical insurance. No matter what your plans are once you enter Canada, consider these key coverages when researching travel insurance to Canada.

Trip cancellation insurance

Sometimes, things happen that require you to cancel your trip. Maybe a family member was going to watch your kids while you’re gone, and they’re now too sick to take care of them. Or severe weather impacts the airline, grounding your flight for the days you planned to be in Canada.

Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse up to 100% of prepaid, nonrefundable expenses, like a flightseeing tour in the Yukon or a Johnston Canyon tour in Banff, if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason. Other reasons you might have to cancel include family emergency, job loss, severe injury or sickness, terrorism or military deployment.

However, you can’t cancel for any reason — like a falling out with your travel companion — and get reimbursed, unless you upgrade your travel insurance plan to “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage. Although CFAR can add around 50% to your travel insurance costs, the ability to cancel for any reason and receive up to 75% of your nonrefundable expenses can make the extra expense worth it. Just make sure you cancel at least 48 hours before your departure date and time to get this benefit.

Delays in your Canada trip

If you’re headed to Canada during winter, severe weather could shut down the airport or cause flight delays. If you’re flying from Baltimore to Whistler with a connection in Chicago, but a winter storm causes delays in Baltimore, you might miss your connecting flight to Vancouver.

Most travel insurance plans will reimburse for meals and hotel accommodation expenses you incur from a travel delay. But to be eligible, the delay usually has to be at least six hours, with some policies requiring 12 consecutive hours before trip delay coverage kicks in. Seven Corners, for instance, will reimburse up to $250 per day per person to a maximum of $2,000 for a delay of at least six hours.

Trip insurance with delay benefits will also reimburse for prepaid expenses you miss out on because of a covered delay. So, if you miss out on your first two days at the ski lodge and can’t transfer or exchange prepaid snowboarding lessons, you can file a claim.

Tackling trip interruption

The last thing you’d expect while taking in the Halifax, Nova Scotia sites is to have a family emergency back home. If you get a call that your mom fell down the stairs and is in the hospital with a broken leg, you’ll probably be ready to catch the next flight home to be with her.

Luckily, travel insurance includes trip interruption benefits, which can help you get there without a large out-of-pocket expense. Trip interruption coverage will pay for your one-way ticket back home and cover any prepaid accommodations and tours you’ll miss from having to shorten your trip.

Dealing with lost bags and belongings

Travel insurance will also cover baggage loss and personal items that get damaged, stolen or lost while you’re traveling. So if you check your hiking poles and boots and they get damaged or lost during the flight, your travel insurance will reimburse you for the depreciated cost of those items.

You’ll also have coverage if someone steals your backpack while you’re sightseeing in Toronto. If you’re traveling with high-value items, make sure you have enough coverage. Many travel insurance plans have a $500 to $1,000 cap on certain items like cameras, watches and computers. Some policies also exclude coverage for smartphones.

Making plans for medical bills in Canada

Don’t be surprised if your health insurance provides little to no coverage in Canada or requires you to pay a large out-of-pocket deductible, said Carol Mueller, spokesperson for Berkshire Hathaway. Canada doesn’t accept Medicare from the U.S., and your health insurance won’t cover you unless you have global coverage. The Government of Canada will also not cover hospital and medical expenses for visitors, including American tourists.

Whether you’re planning to hit the slopes, go hiking or just take advantage of what the swanky resort you splurged on has to offer, you never know when you might fall ill or get hurt. This is where travel medical insurance can help.

Allianz’s OneTrip Prime single-trip plan will pay up to $50,000 for your medical expenses, such as X-rays, prescriptions, doctor’s visits or a hospital stay. Other plans, such as as some in our rating of the best travel insurance for seniors cover up to $500,000.

Even if you’re up-to-date on your COVID-19 vaccines, you might still want to consider a travel insurance plan that covers COVID-related medical treatment, like those in our rating of the best COVID-19 travel insurance .

Evacuation for serious medical issues

Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is critical if you plan to travel to remote areas of Canada. The nearest trauma facility equipped to treat your medical emergency might be hundreds of miles away, requiring a medevac to get you there.

If you don’t have medical plan coverage, you could be on the hook for thousands of dollars in medical costs and private medical transportation. Travel insurance provides emergency medical evacuation coverage .

The Allianz OneTrip Prime and Berkshire Hathaway’s ExactCare travel plans will cover up to $500,000 for emergency medical transportation and repatriation of remains. Travel Guard and Seven Corners plans will each provide up to $1 million.

What is the cost of Canada travel insurance?

There are several factors insurers use to determine the cost of a travel insurance policy , including age, trip cost, destination and length of the trip. In general, you can expect travel insurance to cost about 5% to 6% of your total trip cost.

When calculating the trip expenses to insure, only include those that are nonrefundable. If your prepaid, nonrefundable flights, accommodations and tours total $5,000, you can expect to pay around $275 for travel insurance. You may pay more if you choose a plan with higher coverage limits and upgrades.

Companies use different criteria and weigh factors differently than other providers, so comparing travel insurance policy quotes can help you find the most comprehensive plan for the best price. You can use travel insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth to compare coverage limits and add-on coverage such as rental car, “cancel for any reason” and adventure sports.

Key benefits of having travel insurance for your Canada trip

Even though you’re not flying across an ocean, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy a travel insurance plan. Some of the key benefits of having travel insurance for your Canada trip include:

Not stressing or worrying about not having government health insurance plan coverage since you’re not a Canadian resident.
Not losing out on your nonrefundable, prepaid trip costs if something unforeseen occurs and you have to cancel your trip or head home early.
Knowing that if your trip is delayed or canceled, or you lose a bag or get something stolen, you have coverage to recoup at least some of your out-of-pocket costs.

The right travel plan can provide peace of mind, and many policies will pay for themselves if you need to make a claim for a covered reason.

Tips for choosing the best travel insurance provider for your Canada trip

Comparing travel insurance companies can help you make the right choice when choosing a travel insurance product. Check customer reviews and complaints on websites like Trustpilot. Travel insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip can also help you identify the best travel insurance company and most generous policy.

Don’t be afraid to call an insurance company to ask them “what if?” questions to ensure you’re getting the right policy. “You should feel confident in the coverage you purchase and trust you will receive the level of claims service you deserve if you need to file a claim,” said Mueller.

You should always read the fine print to know your policy’s limitations and exclusions. This includes restrictions on trip delay, cancellation and interruption benefits, and understanding what you’ll need to file a claim for baggage damage, loss, or medical care.

Tip: Most travel insurance companies offer a 10 to 15 free look period, which allows you to review the policy and cancel it for a full refund if you decide it’s not the best choice.

Other insurance considerations for Canada

If you’re planning to participate in adventure activities, like dogsledding in the Yukon, kayaking the Johnstone Strait to see orcas or surfing and hiking in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, you want to make sure you’re covered.

World Nomads Explorer travel insurance plan covers more than 200 adventure activities. You can also get extreme sports coverage, license fees and equipment delay coverage with Berkshire Hathaway’s AdrenalineCare travel plan. Travel Guard offers an Adventure Sports Bundle optional upgrade, which waives benefit exclusions for adventure and extreme activities.

We mentioned CFAR coverage above, but some policies also offer optional “interruption for any reason” (IFAR) coverage. It works like CFAR, allowing you to end your trip early for any reason, not just those listed in your policy. Seven Corners offers a CFAR and IFAR upgrade for up to 75% of nonrefundable trip costs as long as you purchase it within 20 days of your first trip payment.

Road trips are also a popular way to see Canada’s beauty. If you plan to rent a car, it may be worth getting rental vehicle coverage if your credit card doesn’t offer it. World Nomads will cover up to $35,000 in collision damage waiver, while Travel Guard’s rental vehicle damage coverage will pay up to $50,000 in damage to your rental vehicle. Note that this coverage does not include liability insurance , if you are at fault for an accident that results in injuries or damage to others’ property. Check with your car insurance company to make sure your U.S. auto insurance coverage extends to driving in Canada.

Travel insurance for Canada FAQs

Travel insurance is not a requirement to travel to Canada. However, travel insurance will provide travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage, as well as benefits for lost or delayed baggage, trip delay, cancellation or interruption and sometimes missed connections.

The average cost of travel insurance is around 5% to 6% of your travel costs to Canada. Your age, trip cost and other factors determine how much you’ll pay for travel insurance.

To find the best travel insurance for Canada, fill out a brief online form on an insurer’s website with your name, age, address and details about your trip, like the total cost and number of travelers. A travel insurance comparison site like Squaremouth allows you to fill out one application and get multiple quotes at the same time.

The best travel insurance in Canada depends on where you’re going, what activities you’re doing and the types of coverage you need. After comparing dozens of providers, we found WorldTrips , Travel Insured and TravelSafe are among the best travel insurance companies .

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Mandy is an insurance writer who has been creating online content since 2018. Before becoming a full-time freelance writer, Mandy spent 15 years working as an insurance agent. Her work has been published in Bankrate, MoneyGeek, The Insurance Bulletin, U.S. News and more.

Alyce Meserve is an experienced insurance, personal finance and travel writer. Alyce is a licensed insurance professional in life, health and property and casualty, and holds an Executive Certificate in Financial Planning from Duke University.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

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It pays to protect yourself against financial loss on a Canadian vacation. Travel insurance for Canada can provide coverage if your travel plans are interrupted, including unexpected cancellations or delays, emergency medical treatment and baggage loss.

We at the MarketWatch Guides Team have researched and ranked the best travel insurance companies to help you plan your next getaway. Read on to learn about the benefits, requirements and costs of travel insurance for a trip to Canada, plus general travel and safety tips.

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Do I Need Travel Insurance for Canada?

There are no requirements for U.S. citizens to have travel insurance coverage as a condition of entry to Canada. However, most Canadian hospitals do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare. Travel insurance can help cover unexpected health care costs while traveling to Canada, along with unexpected trip cancellations .

Whether you’re mountain biking in Quebec or enjoying winter sports in Alberta, adventure activities are popular on Canadian vacations. Travel insurance includes emergency medical coverage for injuries or accidents, including up-front medical costs. Some tour companies may require travelers to have medical insurance to participate.

Cancel for Any Reason Coverage

Standard travel insurance includes trip interruption coverage to recoup costs in the case of an unexpected cancellation or delay. But policies limit cancellation coverage to predetermined reasons, such as the death of family members, hospitalization or other emergency circumstances.

With cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage , canceling a trip is at your discretion. For example, say you booked a flight and hotel to attend an event hosted by a Canadian resident, friend or family member. If the host cancels the event, CFAR coverage allows you to claim compensation for prepaid and nonrefundable costs (like your flight).

Most travel insurance providers offer CFAR coverage as an add-on to your standard policy, and it’s subject to rules that vary by plan. You typically have to purchase CFAR coverage within a set number of days from booking your trip, and claim eligibility may depend on limits such as canceling within 48 hours of your departure date.

Gear Theft Protection

For all-inclusive vacations that include ski resorts in Whistler or wildlife photography journeys in Banff National Park, many travelers choose to bring equipment to Canada. For a Canadian trip, you may wish to take the following gear:

Professional camera equipment
Sports equipment including snowboards
Personal entertainment gadgets

A trip insurance policy with gear theft protection can guard against financial loss if you are traveling with valuables. If items are lost, damaged or stolen during flights or on tours, travel insurance can help you recover the costs. Your specific policy will include predetermined coverage limits, exclusions and deductibles, but you may choose to leave valuable items at home that you deem irreplaceable.

Medical Emergency Insurance and Emergency Medical Evacuation

Canada provides world-class hospitals and top-ranked health care in the event of a medical emergency. However, U.S. government health insurance plans do not pay for hospital costs, medical expenses or prescription drugs for visitors to Canada. But if you have private insurance, you can check with your provider to see if you have coverage while abroad.

Travel insurance or a travel medical plan can provide coverage if you need emergency assistance or have a pre-existing medical condition. Typically, travel insurance for medical emergencies covers a variety of expenses, including:

Hospital fees
Operating room charges and anesthesia
Ambulance rides
Emergency dental work
Lab tests and X-rays

Most travel insurance plans include emergency medical evacuation and repatriation if you can’t receive health care locally. This covers the cost of an evacuation to your home country or a major Canadian hospital.

Rental Car Protection

Canada requires and includes fire and third-party liability insurance with all rental vehicles. Liability insurance covers damage or injury to people or property outside the rental car from your effective contract date. It’s also mandatory to have collision and theft insurance.

Optional coverage is available to further reduce your risks while driving in Canada. Depending on the car rental company, you can purchase local car insurance to cover the following:

Personal effects protection
Personal accident insurance
Tire and windshield protection
Roadside protection

Travel insurance plans offer an additional safeguard you can combine with rental car insurance. While some companies include rental car coverage in comprehensive plans, other providers may offer coverage as a policy add-on. This coverage can help you recover the costs if the rental car is damaged.

Trip Cancellation Insurance

Should you need to cancel your Canadian vacation before departure, trip cancellation insurance offers reimbursement for nonrefundable and prepaid costs. While this helps prevent financial loss, travel insurance policies include limits on eligible reasons to cancel. Most standard policies state the following reasons as applicable:

Hospitalization, serious injury or illness
Death of family members or traveling companions
Domestic or international acts of terrorism
Severe weather conditions, excluding some natural disasters
Jury duty or military orders

If you prefer the peace of mind of canceling for any reason, opt for CFAR insurance.

How Much Does Canada Travel Insurance Cost?

What you pay for travel insurance will depend on your age, trip details and coverage needs. Most companies provide single-trip plans , but others offer multi-trip plans to suit more frequent travelers. You can also explore options for cheap travel insurance options if you are on a budget.

Travel insurance quotes will reflect the following details:

Age and number of travelers in your group
Destination country and location
Total trip price

We requested quotes from ten travel insurance companies for their most affordable plan for a trip to Canada. The below quotes are for a 30-year-old traveler from Florida, traveling to Canada for ten days in September 2024, with a total trip cost of $4,000. Policies include coverage for cancellations, interruptions, delays, medical care and evacuation.

These quotes were collected in April 2024 for a trip in September 2024.

How Do I Get Travel Insurance for Canada?

Before shopping for travel insurance products, check if your credit cards (including Visa and Mastercard) offer trip coverage. Your current health insurance may also extend medical coverage abroad, and airlines and hotels typically provide the option to add cancellation coverage when booking.

Otherwise, find the best quote and buy Canada travel insurance after comparing prices between providers. Choose a level of coverage that meets your travel and personal needs. For example, if you are participating in sporting activities in Canada, you may want to include higher medical coverage limits and gear protection.

Canada Safety Tips

In the following sections, we will discuss general travel and safety tips to help you enjoy your vacation to Canada.

Crime and Safety

The Canadian Travel Advisory issued by the U.S. Department of State is at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. Canada ranks among the safest countries in the world, but crime still occurs.

As with travel to any country, basic safety recommendations include locking car doors and storing your valuables in a safe. Remain alert in crowded areas in case of pickpockets targeting tourists. Avoid political or economic protests since such events can be unpredictable.

Day Trips, Tours and Excursions

You can enjoy a range of excursions in Canada, including cycling tours, kayaking, wildlife watching and mountain climbing. If you plan to participate in adventure sports, check that your travel insurance policy covers accidents and injuries. Also, check with your health insurance provider to see if you already have medical coverage abroad.

It’s best to book a tour through authorized and trusted organizations. Ask your travel agent or hotel concierge service for recommendations. Alternatively, you can find information on the official Canadian tourism site .

The government of Canada has removed all COVID-19 restrictions for entry and travel around the country. Check with local authorities in the event of changes to pandemic travel restrictions. Although not required, the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends you remain up-to-date on routine and coronavirus vaccinations before traveling to Canada.

If you are worried about the impacts the coronavirus could have on your travel plans, we recommend a travel insurance policy with COVID-19 coverage .

The Bottom Line: Is Travel Insurance for a Canada Vacation Worth It?

Whether it makes sense to buy travel insurance depends on the terms and conditions of your travel arrangements. If you booked a flight, room, rental or transportation that offers refunds for cancellations, travel insurance might not seem necessary.

However, travel insurance can come with expanded medical protections that prove useful in an emergency, and CFAR insurance may offer you more flexibility if plans change. Shopping around and comparing costs for coverage can help you decide the right type of protection for your trip to the islands.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Insurance in Canada

Do airlines have to compensate you for canceled flights to canada.

Generally, airlines will only compensate you for a canceled flight if the airline is at fault. But even then, compensation is subject to a variety of restrictions. Travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage can safeguard you against unnecessary financial loss if your flight is canceled due to a covered reason. You can also purchase CFAR coverage for more flexibility regarding trip cancellations.

Should I have travel insurance for a trip to Canada?

Travel insurance is not a legal requirement to visit Canada. U.S. residents can enter the country with a valid passport. However, Canada does not cover medical expenses for travelers, and you may risk financial loss due to unexpected trip cancellations. Travel insurance can offer a safeguard by providing these types of coverage.

Do all credit cards include travel insurance?

Not all credit cards offer travel insurance. Most travel rewards cards provide some form of travel insurance and therefore may attract higher annual fees. We recommend you check with your credit card company to see if you have any travel benefits.

What does travel insurance cover?

Most basic travel insurance policies cover the necessities, including trip cancellation and interruptions, emergency medical expenses, and baggage loss or delay. More comprehensive plans include higher coverage limits for trip interruption insurance, plus additional coverages like rental car damage, valuables coverage, sporting gear protection and more.

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The Guide to Single Trip Travel Insurance

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Table of Contents

How single trip travel insurance works

How to choose between travel insurance companies, best plans for single trip travel insurance, other tips for travel insurance for a single trip, travel cards that come with complimentary travel insurance, single travel insurance for a trip recapped.

There are many types of travel insurance, including plans that’ll reimburse you for emergency medical expenses or unexpected travel delays. Along with coverage types, there are also different durations of travel insurance.

Single trip travel insurance will cover you during one vacation, while multitrip or annual travel insurance can last for multiple outings. Let’s take a look at single trip travel insurance, what kind of coverage you can expect and how to choose a plan that works for you.

Purchasing a travel insurance plan is fairly simple, as is making a claim. It generally goes like this:

You gather a few quotes from travel insurance companies.

You pick a plan that suits your needs and customize it to your liking.

You purchase your plan and include a date for it to start.

You go on your trip.

If something happens (such as a flight delay), keep the proof.

You make a claim with your travel insurance company.

The travel insurance company reimburses you.

There are a few variations in how this can work (for instance, some travel insurance plans can pay a medical provider directly), but for the most part, this is how the process will go. This is the case whether you have one-trip travel insurance or multitrip travel insurance.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

There are several travel insurance companies out there, which can make choosing a plan difficult.

NerdWallet analysis found that some travel insurance providers rise above the rest in terms of breadth and depth of coverage, cost, customizability, and overall customer satisfaction. Jump to see our findings on the bets plans for single trip travel insurance.

However, before choosing a company and purchasing a plan, consider these questions:

How much am I willing to pay?

Do I want trip protection, emergency medical coverage or both?

Do I already have coverage somewhere?

How much customizability does my plan need?

Do I need coverage for preexisting conditions?

Will I be doing any sort of adventure activities?

Once you’ve answered these questions, do your due diligence and get quotes from multiple sources. Different providers will offer differing levels of coverage at varying prices, so it’s in your best interest to generate as many quotes as possible and read the fine print.

To make it simple, travel insurance aggregators such as Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) will provide you with multiple quotes at a time.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

We considered a wide variety of factors when it comes to selecting the best insurance for your trip. These factors include cost, customizability, coverage maximums, whether preexisting conditions are included and the type of coverage the policy offers.

World Nomads

World Nomads is great for active travelers because of its standard coverage of adventure activities. With just two plans from which to choose, it’s also simple to decide which one you’d like.

Covers 200-plus activities as standard.

Simple plan options.

Emergency medical coverage included.

Only two choices for policies.

Riskier activities are covered only by the more expensive Explorer plan.

Fixed-rate reimbursement for trip protection.

» Learn more: Read our full review of World Nomads

With eight plans on offer, Tin Leg has a policy for every type of traveler. Along with standard trip protections, Tin Leg also offers Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) add-ons.

Plenty of plans from which to choose.

Preexisting conditions included in most plans.

Primary and secondary medical coverage options.

Cheapest plan doesn’t cover preexisting medical conditions.

Rental car coverage add-on available only on Luxury plan.

» Learn more: Is Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance worth it?

Seven Corners

Seven Corners is an excellent option for those who really want to customize their plans. Whether you’re looking for medical-only insurance or a more comprehensive policy, Seven Corners has options available.

Preexisting condition coverage available.

Medical-only plans on offer.

Covers missed tours and cruise connections.

Inexpensive plan offers secondary medical insurance.

Event ticket registration coverage only for expensive plan.

» Learn more: Is Seven Corners coverage worth the cost?

Our last company on the list is unique in that it covers those who use travel rewards, like purchasing flights or hotels with points and miles . This is fairly uncommon among travel insurance providers and can be really helpful when things go awry during award travel.

Plan options include accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) travel life insurance.

Covers up to $300 in frequent traveler reward costs.

Worldwide travel assistance included on every policy.

Cancel For Any Reason insurance available only on most expensive plan.

Just $35,000 in emergency medical for basic plan (low compared to similar policies at other companies).

» Learn more: Our full TravelSafe review

If you’re interested in getting travel insurance, do yourself a favor and consider these tips before making any purchases:

Consult your medical insurance provider to see whether it offers coverage out of country .

Consider an annual plan to save money if you make multiple trips per year.

Check your credit card for complimentary travel insurance . Many offer this benefit, and if its limits are satisfactory, you can book your travels with it and avoid buying a separate policy out-of-pocket altogether. More on this in the next section.

If you're looking to get coverage for a one-off trip, among your best options is to simply pay for your travel with a card that includes travel insurance as a benefit.

Most travel cards will include coverage for things like trip interruption , trip delays and lost luggage .

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

If you’re in the market for single trip travel insurance, there are plenty of options available to you. Before purchasing a plan, grab quotes from multiple companies because the types of coverage and costs are going to vary.

Beyond this, be sure to check whether your credit card offers complimentary travel insurance and reach out to your medical insurance provider to see what type of coverage it offers overseas.

American Express insurance disclosures

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Insurance Benefit: Baggage Insurance Plan

Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Canada Work & Travel Insurance

Planning on moving to Canada? Get Backpacker Travel Insurance whether you are going to work, study or simply take a gap year in the other side of the Atlantic with your 2 year working holiday visa. Keep in mind that you will need travel insurance for the duration of your stay and you must present a copy of your policy when you enter the country.

We offer insurance for up to 2 consecutive years that meets all the requirements of the International Experience Canada (IEC), including medical and repatriation costs. It also includes many other benefits of a regular backpacker insurance policy, such as cover for work, sports, missed departure and baggage. Get a quote now and enjoy your time in Canada!

2 Year Policy from €486.75* Or customise your policy for any length of time up to 2 years.

*Online Premier price for 2 years Canada Only cover for one person under 50 years.

From €129.99* 6 Months, 1 & 2 Year policies available.

*Online Premier price for 6 Months Worldwide incl. USA/Canada cover for one person aged under 50 years.

Key Benefits of Travel Insurance for Canada

Emergency assistance service.

The Emergency Assistance Service is available to you 24/7 with worldwide and multi-lingual support.

Worldwide Coverage

You still will be covered with the policy if you decide to go on a quick trip up to maximum 21 days to The United States of America.

Medical Cover & Repatriation

The policy provides cover for Emergency Medical expenses including hospitalisation and repatriation expenses.

If your plan is to work in Canada, the policy can provide cover for a number of different occupations.

Winter Sports

If you are planning on hitting the Canadian mountains, you can add Winter Cover to your policy for an Additional Premium.

Instant Cover

With BackpackerTravelInsurance.ie you get instantly covered once you have not already departed or commenced your trip.

Please see the policy wording for full terms, conditions and exclusions.

Why choose BackpackerTravelInsurance.ie?

Super competitive prices.

In addition to affordable insurance policies, we provide two levels of cover, Premier and Premier Plus.

Easy Claims Process

Claims procedure is made as simple and straightforward as possible and there is a claims adjuster based in Ireland.

Multi Award Winning Company

Backpackertravelinsurance.ie is part of Cover-More Blue Insurance Services Limited, winner of numerous Best Travel Insurance Provider awards.

High Customer Satisfaction

We have received many 5 star reviews on Trustpilot.

Safe and Secure

BackpackerTravelInsurance.ie website is SSL certified and all the transactions are encrypted.

Trustworthy Underwriter

Policies are underwritten by MAPFRE ASSISTANCE Agency Ireland.

We have received many 5 star reviews on Trustpilot, an independent third-party review platform.

What our Customers Say About Us

BackpackerTravelInsurance.ie,
Blanchardstown Corporate Park 2,
Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.
0818 286 455
01 513 5997
[email protected]
Opening hours:

IMAGES

Travel Insurance 101: Travel to Canada
Travel Insurance for Canada
Best Travel Insurance Canada
How to Move to Canada: Everything to Know Before Moving
Everything You Need to Know About Insurance for Travel to Canada » BD
Travel Insurance Canada: What Is It And Do I Need It?

VIDEO

Does Good IELTS Score Guaranteed A Visa
Why You Need Travel Insurance for Your Trip to Canada

COMMENTS

Travel insurance for Canada
Best Quote Travel Insurance is a full-service Canadian travel insurance broker offering the widest selection of travel insurance plans for visitors to Canada. Available plans may include health coverage, coverage for up to 24 months, and coverage related to pre-existing medical conditions. Plans are available before or after leaving home.
Best IEC Travel Insurance: Our Best Travel Insurance for Canada 2024
If you're moving to Canada under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, you NEED to take out the right IEC health insurance policy. ... Therefore, you need to get separate 2-year travel insurance for Canada. Don't make the mistake of thinking you will be fine without one. We personally know a few people who decided to get the ...
Travel Insurance: USA To Canada Trip
Here's what you should purchase in a travel insurance policy for trips to Canada. Compare & Buy Travel Insurance For 2024. Compare Quotes With Over 22 Travel Insurers. Get A Quote
Travel Insurance for Canada
Sports and adventure travel in Canada. Canada is a winter and adventure sports destination, but certain activities won't be covered as standard under your travel insurance.. We checked Defaqto and found that of 952 annual travel insurance policies, 97% covered cycling, 72% covered horse riding and 59% covered sea kayaking. [2] More extreme sports, like bungee jumping, are less likely to be ...
Canada Travel Insurance
In general, travel insurance to Canada costs about 3 - 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans: Total Trip cost: The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip.
Trip interruption and travel health insurance
No matter where you're travelling, your travel health insurance policy should always cover 3 things: 1. Medical evacuation. Make sure your policy covers medical evacuation to Canada or to the nearest place with medical care. The policy should also cover the costs of a medical escort to travel with you to your destination. 2.
Travel Insurance for Canada: Our Best Options in 2024
Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others. Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support. Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month.
Moving to Canada and travel insurance
During the waiting time, it's important to purchase travel health insurance that provides coverage for medical and dental emergencies and emergency hospitalization and transportation, along with other benefits. When immigrating to Canada, depending on the province or territory you reside in, you may need to wait up to three months to qualify ...
FAQs: 7 Questions to Ask When Choosing Travel Insurance for Canada
Safe Visit covers side trips for up to 30 days. 4. RBC Insurance. RBC Insurance can help you choose travel insurance based on your trip type: gap year, destination wedding, or cruise vacation. 5. World Nomads. World Nomads supports community developing projects when you buy travel insurance from them. FAQ 5.
Travel Insurance For Canada
The average cost of travel insurance is around 5% to 6% of your travel costs to Canada. Your age, trip cost and other factors determine how much you'll pay for travel insurance.
Travel Insurance
Our fully licensed travel insurance agents are available by phone during regular business hours, email, and chat to answer questions, offer guidance so you can make the best purchase decision based on your travel needs, help you understand a policy and support you throughout your entire trip process from beginning a quote to post-trip return.
2 Visit Canada
Insurance can often feel like a maze, with countless options and intricate details that can leave anyone feeling bewildered. With a multitude of choices and an array of coverage plans, finding the right insurance solution for your unique circumstances can seem like a daunting task. At 2 Visit Canada, we understand the complexities of the ...
Travel Insurance for a Canada Vacation (2024)
We requested quotes from ten travel insurance companies for their most affordable plan for a trip to Canada. The below quotes are for a 30-year-old traveler from Florida, traveling to Canada for ...
Single Trip Travel Insurance: What to Know
The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level ...
2 Year Work & Travel Insurance for Canada
It also includes many other benefits of a regular backpacker insurance policy, such as cover for work, sports, missed departure and baggage. Get a quote now and enjoy your time in Canada! 2 Year Policy from €486.75*. Or customise your policy for any length of time up to 2 years. *Online Premier price for 2 years Canada Only cover for one ...
Travel insurance : r/MovingToCanada
If you're travelling outside of Canada frequently for leisure, would highly recommend getting supplementary travel medical insurance. Generally out-of-country medical covered by employer benefits is around $500K lifetime maximum and medical expenses across our closest border could potentially be significantly higher than that.

How To Choose The Best Travel Insurance For Canada

By Hugo O'Doherty

Find the best immigration programs for you

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What you'll find on this page

Start your IEC working holiday with a free Moving2Canada account

Do you have IEC health insurance?

Health Insurance for Permanent Residents in Canada

Health Insurance for Temporary Residents in Canada

IEC Work Permit

Where will you be buying your travel insurance or health insurance for Canada?

BestQuote Travel Insurance

True Traveller

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

Have You Already Left Your Country of Residence?

Cigna Global

Why IEC work permit holders need health insurance (and may want travel insurance for Canada)

Where to next?

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Best IEC Travel Insurance: Our Best Travel Insurance for Canada 2024

If you’re moving to Canada under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, you NEED to take out the right IEC health insurance policy.

So, what is the best IEC Travel Insurance you recommend?

Navigating Insurance Requirements for the 2024 IEC Working Holiday:

Australia And New Zealand IEC insurance cover 🦘 :

Rest of the world:

The International Experience Canada website states the following requirements:

It is very important to get the appropriate travel insurance for Canada.

Therefore, you need to get separate 2-year travel insurance for Canada.

What is the best IEC travel insurance?

Based on all the important factors, we have found these companies to have the best travel insurance for Canada:

Buying the best travel insurance for Canada

True Traveller , for example, allows you to go home as many times as you like!

So what are the best two-year IEC travel insurance options and why?

The best travel insurance options for Canada

True Traveller – Available for EU citizens (including the UK)

Get a quote here for your IEC travel insurance.

Fast Cover – Available for Australians

BestQuote Travel Insurance

Final tips for Working Holiday Insurance for Canada ( th e small print)

Other useful links for your IEC visa:

If you need more info on moving to Canada, make sure to check out our Canada posts here .

Canada Travel Insurance

What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Canada?

Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for US Visitors?

How AXA Travel Protection Can Benefit Visitors to Canada

Medical Benefits:

Baggage Benefits:

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits:

Additional Optional Travel Benefits:

Travel Insurance requirements for Canada

FAQs about Canada Travel Insurance

2. Do US citizens need travel insurance to Canada?

3. What type of medical conditions does AXA Travel Protection cover? AXA covers three types of medical expenses:

AXA already looks after millions of people around the world

Get AXA Travel Insurance and travel worry free!

Travel Assistance Wherever, Whenever

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Trip interruption and travel health insurance

On this page

What your travel health insurance should cover

Why you should buy trip interruption insurance

Meet the terms of your policy

Effects of travel advisories on travel insurance policies

If you study outside Canada

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