Travel Insurance for Canada: All You Need to Know
Feb 21,2025 | Milo
Table of contents
Why purchase travel insurance for Canada?
What Should Travel Insurance for Canada Cover?
Top Five Travel Insurances for Canada
Which Travel Insurance is Best for Canada?
Canada is a dream destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With its majestic mountains, vast national parks, dynamic cities, and a wide range of outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. However, before setting off to the land of maple leaves, one crucial aspect to consider is travel insurance. Without proper coverage, medical expenses and other unexpected costs can be overwhelming.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the ideal travel insurance for Canada. From understanding why it’s a must-have to identifying key coverage features and comparing top options, we’ve got you covered. Want to ensure a smooth and secure trip? Keep reading to discover the best insurance plan for your Canadian adventure!
Why purchase travel insurance for Canada?
Going to Canada without travel insurance is a risky move. While some countries have relatively affordable healthcare, Canada is known for its steep medical costs. Picture this: a single night in the hospital could set you back $3,000 USD, while a routine doctor’s visit might cost around $600 USD. Even calling an ambulance in certain areas can come with a hefty price tag of over $1,000 USD.
Unexpected expenses in Canada go beyond medical bills. Losing your luggage or having it stolen can also put a serious dent in your budget, and without proper insurance, you might not get any compensation for your losses. Canada is also a paradise for adventure seekers, offering thrilling activities like skiing and hiking in its breathtaking national parks. However, these adventures come with inherent risks—imagine taking a fall on the slopes of Whistler and facing staggering medical and rescue costs without any financial protection.
Simply put, having travel insurance for Canada is an absolute must. It’s not just about covering medical emergencies—it also includes benefits like trip cancellations, repatriation, and round-the-clock assistance in your preferred language. In a country where healthcare expenses rank among the highest in the world, this kind of coverage ensures you can fully enjoy Canada’s landscapes and vibrant cities without the looming fear of unexpected costs.
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What Should Travel Insurance for Canada Cover?
Selecting the right travel insurance for Canada isn’t just a precaution—it’s a necessity. With the country’s notoriously high medical expenses and its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, standard coverage simply won’t cut it. To truly safeguard your trip, you’ll need a policy that’s both comprehensive and adaptable, covering everything from unexpected hospital stays to misplaced luggage while on the move. In short, opting for generic medical insurance may leave gaps in protection, so it’s crucial to choose a plan tailored to Canada’s unique travel risks.
For a worry-free journey in Canada, it’s essential to choose an insurance plan that offers extensive coverage and reliable support throughout your travels. Here are some key features to look for in a well-rounded policy:
Top Five Travel Insurances for Canada
While most travel insurance plans for Canada provide similar basic coverage, some policies excel in specific areas, such as covering adventure sports or offering higher medical expense limits. That's why we’ve taken a deeper dive into the offerings of different insurance providers, breaking down the key details so you can make an informed decision. Select the plan that fits your needs to fully enjoy your Canadian adventure, free from concerns.
IATI
IATI is recognized for its attentive, personalized service, perfect for travelers who value assistance in their native language. With more than 135 years of expertise, it provides comprehensive emergency coverage and reimbursement options, making it a trusted choice for extended or activity-packed journeys. It stands out for its emphasis on adventure sports, making it ideal for those eager to explore Canada's thrilling outdoor offerings.
- IATI Backpacker: €53.99 ($58.39 US) for 7 days.
- IATI Basic: €32.90 ($35.58 US) for 7 days.
- IATI Standard: €38.88 ($42.05 US) for 7 days.
- IATI Star: €70.87 ($76.64 US) for 7 days.
For trips to Canada, the IATI Star plan is highly recommended. It offers coverage of up to $5,000,000 US for medical expenses and includes optional coverage for adventure sports with the Premium Adventure add-on.
Key coverage details:
- Medical expenses: Ranging from €100,000 ($105,465 US) under IATI Basic to €5,000,000 ($5,273,250 US) with IATI Star.
- Repatriation: Fully covered at 100%.
- Luggage loss: €500 ($515.38 US) with the basic plan, and up to €2,500 ($2,576.91 US) with the Star option.
- Adventure sports coverage: Available in premium plans. For activities like white-water rafting, canyoning, cross-country skiing, and other high-risk sports, you’ll need to opt for the “Premium Adventure” clause.
Delay compensation: €300 ($316 US) under the IATI Star plan.
HeyMondo
HeyMondo offers an excellent solution for those seeking extensive yet manageable insurance coverage. It’s known for providing global assistance, wide-ranging coverage options, and the benefit of no upfront payments required during emergencies. Moreover, its mobile app allows users to handle incidents and access 24/7 medical support via chat, offering convenient help whenever it's needed.
- Essential Travel: €30.55 ($91.80 US) for 7 days.
- Ease of Mind Travel: €35.59 ($91.80 US) for 7 days.
- Top Travel: €57.18 ($61.82 US) for 7 days.
- Premium Travel: €76.01 ($82.18 US) for 7 days.
Key coverage:
- Medical expenses: Up to €600,000 ($648,837 US) for the "Ease of Mind Travel" plan, and up to €10,000,000 ($10,796,250 US) for the "Premium Travel" plan.
- Repatriation: Unlimited coverage.
- Lost or stolen luggage: Covered up to €1,500 ($1,622 US) with the Ease of Mind plan and up to €3,500 ($3,778 US) with the Premium plan. The Top Trip fare covers up to €2,500 ($2,700 US).
- Adventure sports: Included in the Complete plan.
- Civil liability: Up to €30,000 ($32,441 US).
Chapka
Chapka is a well-established insurance provider that has been making travel coverage more accessible since 2002. It offers tailored plans designed to meet the needs of different types of travelers. What sets it apart is its strong emphasis on adventure sports and outdoor activities. Unlike many other insurers that keep their pricing uniform across destinations, Chapka adjusts its rates slightly higher for trips to Canada.
- Cap Trip Plus: €41.37 ($42.68 USD) for a 7-day trip.
- Cap Basic: €31.06 ($32.05 USD) for 7 days.
Key Coverage:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage of up to €350,000 ($377,868 USD), with superior plans offering up to €1,000,000 ($1,081,395 USD).
- Repatriation: Fully covered.
- Lost or Stolen Luggage: Compensation of up to €800 ($865 USD) for standard plans, and up to €2,500 ($2,703 USD) for superior options.
- 24/7 Assistance: Round-the-clock medical support available.
- Adventure Sports Coverage: Includes activities such as hiking, diving, surfing, and kitesurfing.
- Flight Delay: Compensation for delays at the start of your journey—up to €150 ($162 USD) for basic coverage and €1,500 ($1,622 USD) with superior plans.
AXA
AXA stands out as a top-tier option for travelers seeking all-encompassing and high-quality insurance coverage. With a vast network of partner hospitals and dedicated emergency support, it is a dependable choice for those who prioritize swift and effective assistance. While its premiums may be on the higher side, the Total Plus plan delivers exceptional value by covering critical emergencies and ensuring repatriation when needed.
- Mini insurance: €37.65 ($40.82 US) for 7 days.
- Total Insurance: €58.07 ($62.80 US) for 7 days.
- Total Plus Insurance: €80.28 ($86.81 US) for 7 days.
For those traveling to Canada, AXA provides two key plans: Mini Insurance, which caters to basic coverage needs, and Total Plus Insurance, which offers a more extensive package, including adventure sports protection as an add-on. The latter is particularly suited for adventure enthusiasts who plan to engage in outdoor activities and want comprehensive emergency support.
Key Coverage Details:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage extends up to €150,000 ($162,209 US) for healthcare costs.
- Repatriation: No limit on expenses for returning home in case of emergencies.
- Lost or Stolen Luggage: Compensation of up to €1,500 ($1,622 US) for baggage-related incidents.
- Adventure Sports: Available as an optional add-on for €33.61 ($34.68 US).
- Civil Liability: Protection up to €30,000 ($32,441 US) in case of third-party claims.
Allianz Global Assistance
Allianz Global Assistance is well known for its exceptional customer support and customizable plans, ensuring travelers get coverage that fits their specific needs. With flexible options designed for various types of travelers, it provides a budget-friendly solution for those seeking reliable yet cost-effective insurance for their trip to Canada.
- Holiday assistance Light: €33.33 ($36.04 US) for 7 days.
- Holiday assistance Standard: €44.69 ($48.33 US) for 7 days.
- Holiday assistance Premium : €51.98 ($56.21 US) for 7 days.
Among its available plans, Allianz offers the Holiday Assistance Standard, which provides essential emergency coverage, while the Holiday Assistance Premium includes higher medical expense limits and enhanced protection—perfect for those looking for extra security during their journey.
Key Coverage Details:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage extends up to €75,000 ($81,104 US) under the Standard plan, while the Premium Assistance plan offers up to €200,000 ($206,350 US) for medical costs.
- Repatriation: Fully covered in all plans.
- Lost or Stolen Luggage: Compensation of up to €800 ($865 US) for Standard coverage and up to €2,000 ($2,163 US) for Premium Assistance.
- 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock assistance is available for any emergencies.
Which Travel Insurance is Best for Canada?
After evaluating various travel insurance plans, IATI Star emerges as the top choice for visiting Canada. This policy provides robust coverage tailored to a country where healthcare costs are exceptionally high and outdoor adventures are a major draw. What sets it apart? Several key benefits make this plan a standout option compared to others, including:
- Comprehensive Medical Coverage with No Deductibles
The IATI Star plan provides up to €5,000,000 ($5,398,125 US) in medical coverage, making it a solid choice for handling unexpected health-related expenses in Canada. Whether it’s a minor injury or a more serious condition requiring hospitalization, this insurance ensures you’re financially protected. Additionally, it includes unlimited medical repatriation, covering all costs if you need to be transported back home due to a medical emergency.
- Round-the-Clock Multilingual Support
Given that Canada primarily operates in English and French, having 24/7 multilingual assistance is a major advantage for international travelers. IATI’s team not only provides language support but also understands the unique challenges faced in adventure travel, ensuring guidance even in the most unpredictable situations.
- Competitive Pricing
Another highlight of IATI Star is its affordable pricing, offering a great balance between cost and coverage. With comprehensive medical protection, adventure sports coverage, and uninterrupted customer support, this policy is an excellent option for those seeking a stress-free and secure travel experience in Canada.
With this comprehensive comparison of travel insurance options for Canada, you're now better equipped to choose the coverage that best fits your needs. If you're looking for more travel tips before heading to the Land of Maple, check out our guides on how to stay connected with internet access during your trip and the top eSIM options for Canada. Wishing you a smooth and worry-free journey!
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