Travel insurance is essential for everyone, including Canadians. It’s something you should factor into your travel budget just as you would food and accommodations. Whether you are travelling outside of your home province or territory in Canada or taking an international trip to the US or beyond, it’s important that you are covered in case of emergencies.

What is travel insurance and what does it cover?

To put it simply, travel insurance is a type of protection to buy that will cover the costs of sudden or unforeseen events on your trip. These can range from small expenses, such as lost or delayed luggage, to something more expensive like a visit to an international clinic or hospital while travelling abroad.

Typically, travel insurance plans provide an extra layer of protection for health and medical services on any single or multi-city trip, as well as trip cancellation or disruption costs.

While all travel insurance plans do vary a little, all policies should cover particular basics. We should also point out here that a number of plans are subject to certain conditions, so make sure to always read the fine print before buying coverage. Here’s a breakdown of what travel insurance plans should cover:

• Emergency medical: outpatient services and overnight stays if needed

• Emergency dental

• Personal liability coverage

• Damage or loss of your valuables while travelling

• Damage or loss of checked luggage while in transit

• Some degree of trip cancellation or interruption coverage

• Emergency evacuation and repatriation

• Emergency assistance (phone in or online) while abroad

Different travel insurance providers will cover these expenses up to a variety of levels. They’ll also vary how much you might have to contribute towards any claim that you make under that category (the excess amount or deductible). So, it’s important to see what the coverage limit for each of these elements is, and how much you need to pay to make a successful claim.

What is the best travel insurance for Canadians in 2025?

We’ve broken down the essential details for some of the best travel insurance Canadians in 2025 for an easy comparison of the different insurance companies and their plans.

Allianz Canada travel insurance plans

Allianz Global offers comprehensive packages for Canadians. With a presence in over 75 countries across the globe, perks include a 24/7 call line, an in-house medical team to assist travellers with coverage for out-of-country medical benefits, as well as Senior and Youth Travel Insurance plans.

Blue Cross Canada travel insurance plans

Blue Cross insurance coverage plans vary depending on your province or territory of residence, so check the Blue Cross Canada website to find the restrictions that apply to your region.

CAA travel insurance plans

The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) is a non-profit organization that offers roadside assistance, travel insurance, and other travel-related services to Canadians. While you don’t need to be a member to buy coverage, members can benefit from a 10% discount on travel insurance plans. Like most insurance providers in Canada, CAA insurance packages vary by province, from BCAA (British Columbia Automobile Association) to CAA Atlantic.

Manulife travel insurance plans

Manulife: CoverMe offers some of the best travel insurance packages to choose from for Canadians (including students) up to the age of 85. Plans include family coverage for up to three generations (under the age of 60) and insurance coverage for students (up to 44 years old).

World Nomads

World Nomads Canada travel insurance plans is a popular choice for backpackers, solo travellers, and budget travellers. The company provides coverage for more than 250 adventure activities, so it’s a good pick for any of you thrill-seekers out there. Choose from their Explorer and Standard plans and find a plan that best suits your needs.

Choosing the right travel insurance plan for you

Here are some key things to consider when choosing the best travel insurance plan:

• Your age

• Your province of residence (always read the fine print for residents of Quebec)

• Do you have any pre-existing medical conditions?

• Do you plan on doing any “high-risk” activities during your trip?

• Will you travel with a lot of luggage, including expensive items?

It’s important to note that many insurance companies include specific clauses for high-risk activities (scuba diving and whitewater rafting, for instance), so always read the fine print.

For example, some travel insurance plans will cover trekking, but only to an altitude of 3,000 metres. So if you plan to hike to a higher elevation, make sure that your policy covers these new heights.

As is often the case with many travel insurance plans, the limit for a single item is much lower than you’d think, or the excess can be very high. This is why it’s important to be realistic about the value of the items you’re planning to take with you on your trip and choose accordingly. Your best bet is call the 1-800 number posted on the company’s website and speak with an agent so you can share as many details about your trip as possible.

Ultimately, the best health and travel insurance for your trip is the one that suits your unique needs. No dream vacation looks exactly the same, and the same goes for your insurance plan. Different providers offer specific advantages depending on a variety of factors, including the length of your trip and your province of residence.

Tips for making a claim

Before setting out on a trip, make sure to ask your insurance company what they need from you when making a claim. Here are a few best practices you should know:

• Always carry the details of your travel insurance plan with you. Write the policy number down and keep it with you somewhere safe while travelling, and give it to someone you trust at home for an extra layer of assurance.

• If you need medical attention during your trip, contact your insurer as soon as possible.

• Scan and safeguard receipts and paperwork from any unexpected costs incurred on your trip, including hospital bills.

• If an airline loses your luggage, report to the airline and your insurer right away. Be sure to read the airline’s baggage rules, too.

• In the event of theft, make sure to report it to the local police within 24 hours. This is good practice if you are a victim of any type of crime. Also, if you ever feel unsafe, it doesn’t hurt to contact your local Canadian Embassy or Consulate.

Final thoughts: Travel insurance for Canadians

While travel insurance isn’t always a fun cost to incur, it’s something that you shouldn’t travel without. One of the great joys travel brings is spontaneity, but that can manifest in unpleasant surprises, too, so it’s always best to be prepared. Before purchasing the right travel insurance for you, make sure you're informed about exactly what you need for your specific trip. You’ll thank yourself later!

Please note: This page is meant for general guidance only, and all insurance information posted here was up-to-date as of July 25th, 2025.