Finding the Travel Insurance That’s Right for You
Published on: October 1, 2025
Canadians are travelling abroad more than ever—whether it’s to recharge, visit loved ones, or discover new experiences. Whatever your destination or reason for travelling, the right insurance is essential because the unexpected can happen when you least expect it.
So how do you know which plan is best for you? This guide shares practical tips to help you identify your needs and introduces the coverage offered by Ontario Blue Cross, so you can travel with confidence.
How to Know if You Have the Right Travel Insurance
1. Am I already covered by my credit card or group insurance?
You may already have travel insurance through a group plan or a credit card. However, this coverage often comes with limitations such as restrictions on the number of days covered, the type of travel, or the benefits included. A cancelled flight or an unexpected hospital visit abroad could end up costing you a significant amount. Before you travel, review your insurance policy carefully to ensure it provides the coverage you need.
2. How many days will I be travelling outside the country?
Be sure to calculate the total number of days you’ll be away to confirm whether your current coverage is sufficient or if you need additional insurance. It’s essential to be insured for the entire duration of your trip; otherwise, you may not be eligible for reimbursement if your policy expires before you return.
3. Are my destination or planned activities considered “at risk”?
A week relaxing at the beach and a remote mountain trek come with very different risks. If you’re travelling to a region under a Government of Canada advisory—especially due to conflict or instability—your travel insurance may have certain limitations or exclusions.
The same applies if you’re participating in activities considered at risk, such as whitewater rafting, off-piste skiing, or free climbing. Check the list of activities covered by Québec Blue Cross travel insurance to ensure your plans are fully insured.
4. Do I have a pre-existing medical condition?
It’s important to understand what qualifies as a pre-existing medical condition and how it may impact your coverage. This knowledge will help you choose a plan that truly fits your situation and prevent unpleasant surprises during your trip.
If you’re unsure, please contact us or refer to our detailed article on pre-existing medical conditions for more information.
5. What is my budget?
Every traveller has a different budget, and there’s a wide range of travel insurance options to match. The key is to strike the right balance between what you’re comfortable spending and the level of coverage you need.
Our tip: Use our online quote tool to compare coverage options and prices. Once you’ve found the right fit, you can complete your purchase in just a few clicks.
6. Do I plan to travel again this year?
If you expect to take multiple trips outside your province this year, it’s worth planning ahead. Not only can you save time, but you can also save a significant amount of money.
With Multi-Trip Annual travel insurance, frequent travellers can purchase a single policy that provides coverage for unlimited trips over 12 months, making it simple and convenient to get away whenever they like.
Travel Insurance Coverage Designed for You
Every trip is unique, just like every traveller’s needs. That’s why Québec Blue Cross travel insurance lets you customize your plan by choosing from the coverage solutions below.
Emergency Medical Care
Our most popular coverage, this protects you against unexpected medical expenses during your trip, whether from an accident or sudden illness.
Baggage
This option safeguards your belongings and helps you stay on track during your trip, even if your luggage is delayed, lost, or damaged.
Trip Cancellation and Interruption
Sometimes unexpected events force you to change your plans. This coverage can reimburse travel expenses you’ve already paid if you need to cancel, modify, or cut your trip short for a covered reason.
Option: Cancel for Any Reason
Add this option and enjoy the freedom to change your plans. You can be reimbursed for part of your travel expenses—even for reasons not typically covered, such as a poor weather forecast for your entire trip.
Accidental Death or Dismemberment
An accident can affect far more than your trip. Protect yourself and your loved ones with coverage of up to $300,000 in the event of death or serious injury.
Included Services That Make Travel Easier
With more than 50 years of experience supporting travellers, we understand that it’s often the small details that make the biggest difference. That’s why every Ontario Blue Cross travel insurance policy includes, at no extra cost, Flight Delay Service and 24/7 travel assistance—so you’re never without support when you need it most.