Travel insurance is easy to forget when you are busy planning a holiday. But a sad story from this summer shows why it matters so much for every Canadian who leaves the country.
This post was first published on July 17, 2025. The news story below is from that time.
A Hit-and-Run in Texas Shows Why Travel Insurance Matters
A tragic event recently made headlines. A Toronto woman was seriously injured in a hit-and-run while visiting Texas. Far from home, she now faces a difficult recovery. She also faces enormous medical bills.
This story is a powerful reminder that travel comes with risk. No one plans for an accident on vacation. Still, it can happen to anyone, anywhere. That is why travel insurance is essential before you board a plane or cross the border.
What Your Provincial Health Plan Does Not Cover
Many people do not know how little their health plan covers outside of Canada. For instance:
- OHIP only pays up to $50/day for inpatient care and $200/day for surgeries (source).
- In contrast, a single emergency room visit in the U.S. can cost thousands of dollars.
- Air ambulances, if needed, can exceed $100,000.
Without travel insurance, these costs fall directly on the traveller or their loved ones. Sadly, that burden can be too much to bear. So check what your plan covers before you go.
The True Costs Go Beyond Hospital Bills
Medical treatment is only part of the story. In many cases, you may also need to pay for other unexpected expenses. For example:
- Emergency evacuation.
- Hotel stays for family members.
- Legal and translation services.
- Return flights or repatriation of remains.
- Lost income during recovery.
All of these costs can add up quickly. As a result, what started as a vacation can turn into a financial disaster. Good travel insurance helps keep one bad day from turning into years of debt.
What Travel Insurance Covers
Thankfully, a strong policy can shield you from most of these expenses. Typically, common benefits include:
- Emergency medical care and hospitalization.
- Trip cancellation or interruption.
- Medical evacuation or air ambulance.
- Lost baggage and document replacement.
- COVID-related coverage (depending on the provider).
In short, the right policy offers essential protection. But each policy is different. So read the details, and ask questions until you know what you are buying.
Where Canadians Can Buy Travel Insurance
Here are some well-known providers that sell coverage to Canadians:
- Blue Cross Canada
- Manulife CoverMe
- Allianz Global Assistance
- TuGo
- CAA Travel Insurance
- Desjardins Travel Insurance
To compare plans and prices, you can visit RateHub.ca or RATESDOTCA.
Tip: Many providers offer multi-person or family packages. These can be both cost-effective and convenient.
Also, check whether a credit card or a work benefits plan already gives you some cover. Then compare that coverage with a stand-alone plan, and fill any gaps.
What Happens If You Travel Without Insurance?
Going without travel insurance can lead to serious consequences. If you are uninsured, your family may need to:
- Launch fundraising campaigns.
- Take loans to cover treatment.
- Delay or skip needed care.
- Navigate foreign systems without help.
- Deal with stress on top of an already painful situation.
Clearly, the emotional and financial impact can last for years. Therefore, it is always better to plan ahead.
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance
Before your next trip, consider the following tips:
- Purchase insurance before you leave.
- Read the fine print and policy exclusions.
- Look for medical evacuation and post-care coverage.
- Choose providers with 24/7 emergency support.
- Carry your policy information while travelling.
By following these tips, you can travel with peace of mind. And if your health or your trip plans change, call the insurer first. That way your plan still fits the trip you are taking.
Why This Matters for Mississauga Families
The story of the Toronto woman is heartbreaking. No one expects tragedy while travelling. However, it happens. A small upfront investment in travel insurance can protect your health, your finances, and your family’s peace of mind.
Many families here work hard for years to buy a home and keep it. A large bill from abroad can put that plan at risk. If a trip is coming up, you may also like my tips on what passengers can do during a flight disruption. And for a look at life back home, read why residents here are so happy.
Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with any travel insurance provider mentioned in this article. I do not receive any compensation from them. This post is for educational purposes only.
Talk to a Mississauga Real Estate Agent
Do you have questions about travel, your home or real estate in Mississauga and the GTA? I am always glad to help. Please send me a message or call 416 908 5600. A. Q. Mufti, Sales Representative, RE/MAX Real Estate Centre Inc., Brokerage.
