Holidays…. For most of us, this means months and months of saving, planning, and organizing. But even more so it is the excitement and anticipation for those days of pure bliss and fun. Some of us even start the countdown on our calendars and start day dreaming about our time away.
Until…
Nobody goes on holiday with the intention of having to deal with a medical emergency or any other disruptions. Some of us will have taken the steps necessary and will be ready for such a situation, and unfortunately others will find them selves dealing with nightmarish circumstances. For many, the primary focus in booking a vacation is in finding the best deal, but we take very little time to find and purchase travel insurance.
Most people take travel insurance lightly and never discuss it in detail with their travel agents. It is important to know what your travel insurance covers in the event of any unforeseen situations which may subject you to a financial loss.
There are several types of travel insurance available, including: Trip Cancellation/Interruption, Lost Baggage and Emergency Medical. Many insurers will offer these as a “bundle”, or you may wish to purchase only one or two of them. It’s best to check with your insurance provider regarding the details, as travel health coverage policies vary.
The Government of Canada provides some great tips when searching for travel insurance. The full article can be found here. A brief summary of some key considerations is included below:
Be sure to ask a lot of questions!
- Will you be covered for the duration of your trip, all the way up to the time you get home?
- Does the insurer offer translation services for the country that you will be visiting?
- Are pre-existing medical conditions covered?
- Be sure to obtain written confirmation as to what is (or is not) covered, specific to your own health.
- Does the policy include medical evacuation to Canada, or to the nearest location for appropriate care?
- Before purchasing the policy, be sure that you are comfortable with all of the terms and conditions that are included, and most importantly – have the responses to your questions answered in writing before you leave.
You may be interested in reviewing this recent (famous, or infamous?) situation dubbed “The Million Dollar Baby”: https://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/million-dollar-baby-canadians-handed-1m-bill-after-woman-gives-birth-in-u-s-1.2107020
Corinne Kassee / Benefits Administrator / PEO Canada