Find the Best Coverage for Your Canadian Adventure
Planning a trip to Canada? Whether you’re exploring Toronto’s vibrant neighborhoods, trekking the Rocky Mountains, or enjoying the coastlines of Nova Scotia, having the right travel insurance is essential. It protects against unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, interruptions, or baggage loss.
This article outlines the best travel insurance for Canada, what to expect in terms of costs, and how to tailor a plan to suit your specific activities.
Planning a trip to Canada? Whether you’re exploring Toronto’s vibrant neighborhoods, trekking the Rocky Mountains, or enjoying the coastlines of Nova Scotia, having the right travel insurance is essential. It protects against unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, interruptions, or baggage loss.
This article outlines the best travel insurance for Canada, what to expect in terms of costs, and how to tailor a plan to suit your specific activities.
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Do I Need Travel Insurance for Canada?
Travel insurance is not required to enter Canada, but it is highly recommended for all visitors. Canada’s healthcare system is universal, but it only covers residents, so non-residents need travel insurance to avoid potentially high medical costs if they fall ill or get injured.
Moreover, foreign health insurance is usually not accepted in Canada, making it even more important to secure travel medical insurance before you go.
Some travelers also choose extra protection, such as trip cancellation insurance, which isn’t mandatory but can be valuable, especially for expensive trips. It helps recover costs if you must cancel unexpectedly. Many travel medical plans also include benefits such as lost luggage coverage.
When choosing a policy, it's important to consider your trip length, any pre-existing conditions, and planned activities to ensure you have the right coverage and peace of mind throughout your trip.
Read More: Is Travel Insurance Worth It?
Travel Insurance for Common Risks in Canada
As well as protecting against common travel disruptions, such as flight cancellations, delays, and lost luggage, travel insurance also covers risks specific to each destination.
Canada is known for its incredible natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers. Whether you’re skiing in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, kayaking in British Columbia, rock climbing in Quebec, or camping in the Yukon, these thrilling activities come with unique risks.
For instance, skiing accidents or a kayak capsizing in swift currents can result in serious injuries, and the cost of medical treatment can quickly become overwhelming without proper coverage.
Emergency room visits in Canada can exceed CAD $1,000, and inpatient care can cost over CAD $4,000 per day. Without travel insurance, you would be left to cover these expenses out-of-pocket.
Standard travel insurance may not cover high-risk activities like extreme sports or wilderness adventures. Therefore, you may need an “extreme sports” rider or an adventure travel plan that provides additional coverage for activities not included in regular policies.
Canada’s harsh winter weather and remote wilderness areas also present unique risks. Driving on icy roads or being involved in an accident in isolated regions can be particularly dangerous. Travel insurance can provide coverage for car rental damage, roadside assistance, and emergency evacuation, which can be especially costly in remote locations.
Given these factors, it’s important to carefully review your policy to ensure it offers the right coverage for your planned activities. With the right plan, you can enjoy all of Canada’s outdoor adventures and natural beauty with peace of mind, knowing you're protected throughout the entire trip.
Types of Travel Insurance for Visitors to Canada
Travel insurance for Canada provides a range of coverage options to protect you from unexpected disruptions and expenses during your trip. It can cover both medical emergencies and travel-related incidents, offering peace of mind throughout your journey.
While the exact coverage will depend on the policy you choose, key benefits typically include:
- Medical Expenses and Emergency Treatment – This covers medical costs if you fall ill or get injured while traveling.
- Emergency Medical Evacuation and Repatriation – Pays for transportation to the nearest medical facility or back home if necessary.
- Trip Cancellation and Interruption – Reimburses non-refundable costs if your trip is canceled or cut short for covered reasons.
- Lost, Stolen, or Delayed Luggage – Compensates for lost, stolen, or delayed personal belongings.
- Travel Delay – Covers additional expenses for meals, accommodations, and transport due to unexpected delays.
- Repatriation of Remains – Covers the cost of returning a deceased traveler’s remains to their home country.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Extreme Sports and Adventure Activities – Some policies allow you to add an "extreme sports" rider to cover high-risk activities like skiing, snowboarding, scuba diving, and bungee jumping. This provides protection for medical emergencies, equipment loss, and activity-related accidents.
Read more about the various benefits of travel insurance and how to find the best plan based on your needs in our article on Comprehensive Travel Insurance.
What’s Excluded from Canadian Travel Insurance?
When choosing a travel insurance plan, it’s important to understand what’s excluded to avoid any surprises.
Canadian travel insurance is typically unlikely to cover the following:
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Injuries from high-risk activities (e.g., snowboarding, ice climbing) unless you add an "extreme sports" rider to your policy
- Non-emergency medical treatments (e.g., routine checkups, cosmetic surgery)
- Self-inflicted injuries
- Alcohol- or drug-related incidents
- Losses from illegal activities
Think before you drink! Canada has a strong drinking culture, and it's tempting to enjoy a few drinks while doing outdoor activities with friends. But remember, travel insurance won’t cover you if you're injured while intoxicated. So, save the beers for when you're safely back at camp or your accommodation.
How Much is Travel Insurance for Canada?
Travel insurance for Canada is generally affordable, though costs vary depending on factors like your age, trip length, the level of coverage you select, and the provider.
The price can also increase if you opt for a low- or zero-deductible plan, add coverage for adventure sports, or need coverage for pre-existing health conditions.
Age is one of the biggest factors in determining the cost of travel insurance. For example, a 25-year-old traveler would pay between $10 and $20 for a 10-day travel medical plan for Canada from the U.S., depending on their chosen maximum limit and deductible. However, a 60-year-old would pay between $40 and $60 for the exact same coverage.
Here are some of the cost elements of travel insurance:
- Premiums: The amount you pay for the policy, either in a lump sum or periodically (e.g., weekly, monthly).
- Deductibles: The amount you pay out-of-pocket for covered expenses before insurance coverage kicks in.
- Co-pays: A fixed amount you pay for certain services, like doctor visits or medical treatments.
- Covered Services: Typical coverage includes emergency medical expenses, evacuation, trip interruption, baggage loss, and flight delays. Make sure your policy covers what matters most to you.
- Exclusions and Limits: Be aware of any exclusions (services or situations not covered) and policy limits (the maximum amount the insurance will pay).
Compare travel insurance plans to find the best value based on your trip details and personal needs. Since each plan varies, be sure to carefully review the coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage to ensure it aligns with your requirements. Depending on your travel plans, you may also want to consider adding extra coverage for specific activities, such as adventure sports, pre-existing conditions, or extended medical coverage.
How to Choose the Right Travel Health Insurance for Canada
Choosing the right travel insurance can feel overwhelming, but following these steps will help guide your search:
- Assess Health Needs: Consider your health needs before purchasing a plan. Who's traveling with you? What are their ages, and do they have any medical conditions? If you're older, take regular medications, or need ongoing treatments, ensure your plan covers pre-existing conditions. Even if you're young, healthy, and traveling solo, make sure your policy covers emergency medical care.
- Consider Activities: Are you planning high-risk activities like skiing, parasailing, ziplining, or rock climbing? Look for adventure sports coverage or add an appropriate rider to your policy to ensure you're covered.
- Plan for Your Trip Length: If you're traveling for just two weeks, you can likely rely on your prescription medications from home. However, longer trips may require more comprehensive coverage. For extended stays (three months or more), you might need a policy that allows for routine medical visits. A longer trip may also benefit from trip cancellation coverage.
- Know the Destination-Specific Risks: Canada has unique risks, such as cold exposure, drowning, falls, wildlife encounters, and other dangers associated with outdoor activities. While urban areas are relatively safe, petty crimes like theft can still occur. Understand the risks at your specific destination in Canada and ensure your coverage addresses them.
- Understand Coverage Limits: Carefully review the policy’s coverage limits, including emergency evacuation, medical treatment, and exclusions. Be sure it provides adequate protection. Compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best value for the coverage you need.
The Best Travel Insurance for Visitors to Canada
Below are our top recommended travel insurance plans for Canada, each offering unique benefits tailored to different needs, from medical emergencies and trip protection to additional coverage options.
The Best Health Insurance for Travel to Canada
The Atlas Travel Insurance plan is a flexible and affordable travel medical insurance plan for visitors to Canada. Atlas provides great customer service and a comprehensive range of benefits, even with the most budget-friendly plans.
The plan includes coverage for pre-existing conditions so you can receive the necessary care while abroad. For those planning Canadian wilderness adventures, Atlas also offers extreme sports coverage and emergency evacuation options.
Atlas Travel Insurance
- Emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation benefits
- Choose between the basic and more extensive coverage
- Meets Schengen visa insurance requirements
- 24/7 worldwide travel and emergency medical assistance
The IMG Patriot Platinum plan is one of the most comprehensive travel medical insurance options available, offering top-tier medical coverage, global emergency services, and valuable travel benefits for travelers to Canada.
Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or long-term, this plan provides reliable protection for medical emergencies, acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and unexpected travel disruptions.
Patriot Platinum Travel Insurance
- Maximum limits up to $8,000,000
- IMG pays 100% of medical expenses in-network
- Evacuation due to Natural Disasters & Political Unrest
For U.S. citizens visiting Canada, GeoBlue's Voyager Travel Insurance plan is an excellent choice. It is affiliated with Blue Cross Blue Shield and provides access to a premium network of doctors and hospitals worldwide.
GeoBlue also offers 24/7 customer support, telemedicine, and prescription drug coverage, which is an important consideration in Canada, where Medicare doesn’t cover outpatient medications. The plan is especially ideal for older U.S. citizens, offering the highest level of coverage for seniors traveling abroad.
GeoBlue Voyager Plan
- For U.S. citizens up to age 95
- Includes pregnancy coverage, baggage loss, trip interruption & more
- 24/7/365 service and assistance
The Best Trip Cancellation Insurance for Canada
With Trawick Safe Travels AnyReason, U.S. citizens and residents can visit Canada, knowing they have both flexibility and financial protection against unexpected changes to their trip itinerary.
This plan offers one of the best Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) benefits at no additional cost. Trawick will reimburse you for up to 75% of your prepaid, non-refundable trip expenses if you have to cancel your trip for reasons beyond the standard covered events.
Safe Travels AnyReason
- Available to US residents traveling within the United States and abroad
- 100% Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Coverage
- Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation
- 75% of Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) is included within 7 days of trip deposit
World Nomads Travel Insurance is a top choice for non-U.S. citizens seeking a travel plan with trip cancellation coverage. Policyholders can recover non-refundable expenses such as flights, accommodations, and prepaid activities.
Beyond trip cancellation coverage, World Nomads also provides coverage for over 200 adventure activities, emergency medical expenses, emergency evacuation and repatriation, and protection against lost or stolen baggage and personal belongings.
World Nomads Travel Insurance for Trip Cancellation
- Trip cancellation and interruption benefits included
- Emergency medical transport and repatriation
- Baggage and gear cover
- Optional Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage available for U.S. citizens/residents (Explorer and Epic Plans)
Safety Advice and Travel Tips for Canada
Canada is generally a safe country, with a violent crime rate lower than that of the U.S. However, it's still important to exercise caution, especially when walking alone at night in urban areas.
While drug-related crime can occur in certain neighborhoods of major cities, it's usually not random. As a tourist, it’s wise to be aware of common risks such as pickpocketing, smash-and-grab thefts, and street scams.
The country maintains a high standard of cleanliness and sanitation, so you can feel confident that food and water are safe to consume no matter where you go. Medical care is excellent and readily accessible, though it may be less available in rural areas compared to larger cities.
If you plan to engage in high-risk activities, keep in mind that even an extreme sports rider won't cover you if you don't follow safety rules. For example:
- Hiking, skiing, or climbing in non-designated areas
- Participating in outdoor activities while intoxicated
- Ignoring provincial or territorial safety restrictions (e.g., fire bans or warnings about dangerous conditions)
Be sure to review the fine print of your policy for any specific exclusions and conditions, and buy extra coverage if you need it for pre-existing conditions or high-risk activities.
Outside of Canada's major cities, the main dangers come from nature. Winters can be extremely cold, so it's essential to pack proper clothing to avoid frostbite and hypothermia.
Winter sports are popular but carry inherent risks, and outdoor activities like boating, kayaking, and waterskiing – especially on the coasts – can be dangerous in the summer as well.
Traveling in remote areas can also be risky. With Canada's vast wilderness, it’s easy to get lost, and help may take longer to arrive. For this reason, it's a good idea to consider emergency evacuation insurance before heading into more isolated regions.
If you do face an emergency while in Canada, dial 911 for help.
Don't go astray! Canada is known for its wilderness, but these remote areas can be dangerous if you're unprepared. If you plan on hiking or camping in areas far from cities, be sure to have a GPS, a map, and an emergency contact. Always tell someone your itinerary and expected return time. Keep in mind that mobile service can be limited in these remote areas, so it's essential to take extra precautions.
Medical Preparation for Travel to Canada
Before leaving your home country, make sure you have enough medications and any other necessary medical equipment for the duration of your stay. It's also a good idea to visit your healthcare provider for a checkup to ensure you're fit for travel and that your vaccinations are up to date.
Additionally, securing travel insurance is essential for protecting you in case of unforeseen medical emergencies, such as illness or injury, during your trip.
What Vaccinations Do I Need to Travel to Canada?
Canada does not require specific vaccinations for entry. However, it is recommended that travelers are up to date on routine vaccines, including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, and polio. Seasonal vaccines, such as the flu and COVID-19 vaccines, are also advised.
Although the risk of rabies is low for most travelers, it can still be found in bats and other mammals in Canada, so the vaccine is recommended for adventure travelers who are engaging in activities like caving or rock climbing in remote areas may want to consider the rabies vaccine if they’re at risk for animal bites.
Read More: Vaccine Requirements for Traveling Abroad
How to Bring Medications to Canada
When bringing prescription medications to Canada, it’s important to carry a copy of your prescription and keep the medication in its original packaging. If you’re unsure about whether your prescription is legal in Canada, contact your country's embassy for clarification.
Don’t forget to bring any birth control prescriptions with you. While condoms and other barrier methods of birth control are widely available at drug stores, grocery stores, and corner stores, oral contraceptives require a prescription and can only be obtained at pharmacies.
Most over-the-counter medications are also available in Canada, but it may be helpful to bring some from home to avoid potentially higher prices. Be aware that some medications commonly found in the U.S. may be kept behind the counter in Canada and vice versa.
Read More: Traveling Internationally with Prescription Medication
How to Access Medical Care in Canada for Visitors
While anyone can receive emergency medical care in Canada, you’ll be billed if you don’t have a Canadian health card. When selecting your travel insurance, check which healthcare providers are covered under your plan. In many cases, you may need to pay upfront for services and seek reimbursement later.
Canada has an abundance of doctors, clinics, hospitals, and emergency rooms, especially in larger cities. It’s wise to research and compile a list of doctors and specialists at your destination and keep this information with you during your trip.
Note that some services, such as emergency services, optometry, dentistry, fertility treatments, and outpatient prescription drugs, may not be covered by Canada’s public health insurance. Review your travel insurance policy to ensure it aligns with the healthcare providers and services you might need.
Some travel insurance plans offer telemedicine visits, which can help reduce upfront costs if you don’t require in-person hospital care. Many plans also provide translation services, which can be especially useful in Quebec, where French is predominantly spoken.
Read More: Hospitals in Canada
Travel Warnings and Alerts for Canada
Various government agencies provide travel advisories and alerts for Canada. The official Canada Travel and Tourism page offers comprehensive safety and travel advice for those traveling to or within the country.
Depending on where you're traveling from, you can also check the following resources for up-to-date advisories and alerts for Canada:
- US Department of State: Official travel advisory page for Canada.
- Australian Government Smartraveller: Safety and security information for travelers from Australia.
- Gov.UK Foreign Travel Advice: Travel advice for UK citizens traveling to Canada.
- Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Travel advisories and safety tips for Singaporean travelers.
Read More: A Guide to Travel Advisories, Warnings, and Alerts
Emergency Contact Information for Canada
Knowing which numbers to call in case of an emergency is crucial when traveling abroad. It's recommended to keep a list of emergency contacts both digitally and on paper, and always carry it with you in a secure location while traveling.
Emergency Assistance Numbers in Canada
- 911 is the main emergency number in Canada for police, fire, or medical assistance.
- 112 will also forward to 911 if dialed.
- If you are deaf or speech-impaired, you can text 911.
- You can dial 311 in many regions to access non-emergency city services, report issues, or ask for general information.
- To anonymously report a crime when the emergency has passed, dial 1-800-222-TIPS to contact Canadian Crime Stoppers.
For local, non-emergency police, fire, or medical services, you can search the internet for the province or city and the specific service, such as "police" or "fire."
Here are a few examples:
- Ontario Provincial Police: 1-888-310-1122
- Toronto Police Service: 1-416-808-2222
- Vancouver Police Department: 1-604-717-3321
Embassies and Consulates in Canada
- U.S. Embassies and Consulates in Canada
- Ottowa: 1-613-688-5335
- Calgary: 1-403-266-8962
- Halifax: 1-902-812-0049
- Montreal: 1-514-398-9695
- Quebec: 1-418-692-2095
- Toronto: 1-416-595-1700
- Vancouver: 1-604-685-7175
- Winnipeg: 1-204-940-1800
- British Consulates in Canada
- Click on the link above for a directory of all British consulates in Canada.
- To get help, use their contact form
- French Embassy in Canada
- Ottowa: 1-613-789-1795
- Consulates in Moncton, Montreal, Quebec, Toronto, and Vancouver (specific numbers can be found on the embassy website).
- Australian Embassies and Consulates
- High Commission in Ottowa: 1-613-236 0841
- Australian Consulate in Toronto: 1-416-323-4280
- Australian Consulate in Vancouver: 1-604-694-6160
- New Zealand High Commission in Ottowa: 1-613-238-5991
10 Safety Tips for Traveling to Canada
While Canada is one of the safest countries in the world, it's still important to stay aware and take precautions while traveling. Here are some ways to avoid common risks and ensure a smooth trip:
1. Carry Vital Health Information
In case of a medical emergency, keep an identification card listing your blood type, chronic conditions, serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take. This helps emergency responders treat you quickly, especially if you're alone or unable to communicate.
2. Prepare for Travel in Winter Storms
Canada is known for its harsh winter storms, including ice and blizzards. Driving in these conditions can be dangerous. If you must drive, go slow, stay alert, and be mindful of other drivers. Keep an emergency kit in your car, including food, water, and blankets, in case you get stranded. A 4-wheel-drive vehicle or snow tires are recommended if you're driving in rural areas.
3. Bundle Up to Avoid Frostbite and Hypothermia
If you're hiking or sightseeing on foot, wear multiple layers and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite. Thermal underwear, heavy socks, and insulated gloves are essential for comfort and safety. Hypothermia can set in quickly, so be aware of symptoms like confusion, dizziness, or an inability to get warm.
4. Understand the Risks of Winter Trails
If you're skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking, be cautious. Though not frequent, Avalanches can occur in mountainous regions, particularly in Alberta and British Columbia. Stay on marked trails, obey avalanche advisories, and avoid restricted areas.
5. Stay Aware of Wildfires
Wildfires have become more common across Canada in recent years. The Canadian Wildland Fire Information System tracks fire activity and offers hotspot maps from May to September. If you're traveling to Canada to hike, camp, or otherwise spend time in the wild, keep a close eye on wildfire alerts for your destination. Consider trip cancellation insurance in case fires disrupt your travel plans.
6. Respect Nature and Wildlife
Canada is home to bears, moose, wolves, and other wildlife. While majestic, these animals can be dangerous if approached. Follow safety guidelines in national parks, stay alert – especially at dawn and twilight – and never approach wildlife, particularly mothers with cubs.
Store food in animal-proof containers or hang it in trees while camping. In bear country, carry bear spray and make noise while hiking to avoid surprise encounters. Spring is a sensitive time, as bears emerge from hibernation and may be more aggressive.
7. Mind the Moose
Moose are also common throughout Canada. While they are generally not interested in people, they are enormous and will stand in the middle of the road. If you see a sign with a moose on it, keep your eyes open while driving and be ready to stop. As with bears, if you see young moose while in the forest, stay clear, as the mother will be nearby and can charge if she feels threatened.
8. Don't Leave Anything In the Car
Smash-and-grab thefts from cars are fairly common in major cities. In Montreal, Vancouver, and Toronto, you may even be fined for leaving your vehicle unlocked or valuables in view. If you're driving in the city, always double-check that you've locked your car, and don't leave anything in it that you can't do without – not even in the glove box or trunk.
9. Be Cautious Around Tent Encampments
Homelessness has been increasing in Canadian cities, particularly in Toronto and Vancouver, leading to more tent encampments in public spaces. While many unhoused individuals are simply seeking shelter, some encampments may have higher rates of crime or unpredictable activity. As a precaution, it's best to avoid these areas, especially at night.
10. Know the Rules on Cannabis
Cannabis is legal to consume in Canada, but it is illegal to bring it across international borders. Do not travel into Canada with cannabis, even if it's for personal use, as you risk arrest or being denied entry. If you wish to purchase cannabis while in Canada, it is available at licensed dispensaries in most provinces.
Your Canadian Adventure Awaits – Travel Smart and Stay Safe!
Canada is an extraordinary destination, offering stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unforgettable experiences. While it’s one of the safest places to visit, being prepared and taking the necessary precautions ensures you can fully enjoy all it has to offer.
From securing the right travel insurance to staying aware of your surroundings, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and memorable trip. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Montreal, skiing the slopes of Banff, or hiking through British Columbia’s lush rainforests, Canada promises an adventure like no other.
Are you ready to explore the Great White North? Get a free quote to find the best coverage for your trip.
Get a Free Quote for Canada Travel Insurance
Traveling to Canada? Compare top-rated travel medical plans and get instant coverage tailored to your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Entry requirements depend on your nationality. U.S. travelers do not need a visa, but visitors from other countries may require a visitor visa or other documentation.
For detailed and up-to-date entry requirements, it’s best to visit Canada's official government website.
While travel insurance for Canada is not mandatory, it is highly recommended. Healthcare in Canada can be expensive for visitors without insurance, and travel insurance provides coverage for unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and more. Having travel insurance ensures peace of mind and financial protection during your trip.
The best travel insurance for visitors to Canada depends on your individual needs. If you're planning a longer trip or have a significant investment in your vacation, consider adding trip cancellation insurance. Adventure travelers may also want to look into coverage for extreme sports coverage and medical evacuation insurance.
Be sure to compare travel insurance plans to find the best option that suits your specific travel needs.
The cost of travel insurance in Canada varies depending on factors such as the length of your stay, your age, and the level of coverage you choose.
Prices generally start around $1.20 USD per day but can increase to $10 per day for older travelers. For the most accurate pricing, it’s best to get a personalized quote from an insurance provider based on your specific situation.
Yes, you can purchase travel insurance after booking your flight. However, it’s recommended to buy it when you first book your flight to ensure that you’re covered for any unexpected events that may arise before or during your trip.
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Author: Kamela Hutzley is a Senior Editor at International Citizens Insurance. She is a native New Jerseyite who recently emigrated to Halifax, Nova Scotia. In late 2022, she spent a month each in Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City, before deciding on Atlantic Canada for the long haul. She’s traveled to Hawai’i, Jamaica, France, Spain, the UK, Ireland, Greece, Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands. Kamela writes about International Life Insurance, Travel insurance, and Health topics as well as advice for expats and travelers.