Start with A Quick Coverage Check Before You Travel
Whether you’re planning a spontaneous getaway, a carefully organized vacation or an extended stay abroad, reviewing your travel insurance coverage is a smart step in your trip preparation. Many travellers already have some form of coverage through their credit card or an employer-sponsored group insurance plan. However, these plans often include important limitations related to the duration of your trip, your health or the type of medical care you might require.
Taking a few minutes before departure to understand exactly what is covered can make a significant difference if something unexpected happens while you’re away.
Review Your Current Travel Coverage
Travel insurance may come from several sources, including credit cards, group insurance plans and public health coverage. Because each type of insurance works differently, it’s important to review them carefully before you leave.
What OHIP Covers When Travelling
Outside Ontario, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) may reimburse certain emergency medical services, but only up to the rates set by Ontario’s public health system.
This means that travellers may still need to pay for several expenses, including:
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Medical services not covered under Ontario’s public health system
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Emergency transportation or medical repatriation (by ground or air)
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Prescription medication purchased abroad
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Hospital stays in private or semi-private rooms
That’s why OHIP recommends purchasing additional travel insurance before leaving the province.
What Credit Card Travel Insurance Covers
Travel insurance offered through a credit card can vary significantly depending on the card and issuer. Before relying solely on this coverage, make sure you understand:
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The maximum trip duration covered (sometimes limited to 3 days)
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Eligibility requirements and any health-related exclusions
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Maximum reimbursement amounts and deductibles
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The types of coverage included (such as trip cancellation, interruption or baggage insurance, which may be limited or not included at all)
Reviewing these details will help you determine whether you need extra coverage for your trip.
What a Group Insurance Plan Covers
Some employer-provided group insurance plans include travel insurance, typically designed to cover basic travel needs. It’s worth confirming that the coverage aligns with the type of trip you’re planning. Pay particular attention to:
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The maximum trip duration covered
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Eligibility requirements and health-related exclusions
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Maximum reimbursement amounts and deductibles
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Insurance limits for emergency medical care
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Included coverage, such as trip cancellation, interruption or baggage loss (often limited or not covered at all)
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Whether coverage continues if your employment status changes
Complete Your Coverage With Blue Cross
Blue Cross travel insurance can supplement your existing coverage based on your needs: destination, trip length, travel style and desired level of insurance. With Blue Cross, you can count on:
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What is the maximum trip duration covered?
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Flexible coverage tailored to each trip
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24/7 travel assistance anywhere in the world
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Flight Delay Service at no additional cost
Depending on your needs, you can also add:
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Emergency Medical Care, up to $5,000,000.
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Trip Cancellation and Interruption, including the Option: Cancel for Any Reason
Travel Smart, Travel Prepared
Understanding your travel insurance coverage helps you avoid unexpected costs and travel with greater confidence. By reviewing your existing insurance and adding supplementary coverage when needed, you can focus on enjoying the journey, embracing unexpected moments and making the most of every trip.