Why Travel Insurance Is a Must—Even Within Canada

When planning a trip—whether it's a tropical getaway, a European adventure, or a cross-country tour through Canada—most of us focus on packing the essentials, booking accommodations, and mapping out must-see spots. But there’s one crucial item that often gets overlooked: travel insurance.

Travel insurance isn’t just for trips abroad—it’s essential even when travelling within Canada, OHIP won’t fully protect you once you cross provincial borders, and the last thing you want during your vacation is to worry about how to pay for an unexpected medical emergency.

Travel insurance provides coverage for unexpected events while you're away from home and can help you avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses if something goes wrong, including:

✅ Medical emergencies and hospital visits

✅ Trip cancellations or interruptions

✅ Lost or delayed baggage

✅ Flight delays

The Myth: "I Don’t Need Insurance, I Have OHIP"

Many Ontarians believe they don’t need travel insurance when exploring other parts of Canada because they're covered by OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). Unfortunately, that’s only partially true.

OHIP does not offer full coverage outside of Ontario. While it may reimburse some emergency medical services, the amount is typically limited and may not come close to covering actual costs in another province or territory. 

• Ground or air ambulance services: often not covered by OHIP outside of Ontario and can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars

• Emergency room fees and hospital stays: Provinces charge differently, and OHIP may only reimburse a fraction of what you’re billed

• Prescription drugs or medical equipment: These often aren't covered when you're away from your home province

In other words, outside of Ontario, you could be left footing a very large bill if you don't have the proper coverage.

Why Travel Insurance Makes Sense

1. Financial Protection
   Travel insurance gives you peace of mind knowing that you won’t be caught off guard by costly medical expenses, trip interruptions, or lost belongings.

2. Coverage Across Canada
   Whether you're travelling to the Rockies or to the East Coast, travel insurance ensures you’re protected regardless of what province or territory you’re in.

3. Better Than Partial Reimbursement
   Unlike OHIP, which offers limited reimbursement, travel insurance can offer full coverage for emergency services, giving you access to quality care without the worry of massive bills.

4. Peace of Mind for Families
   Keep yourself and your family protected wherever your next adventure takes you.

CAA Members Save on Travel Insurance

Being a CAA Member has its benefits! Members SAVE 10%* on travel insurance, so not only will you be protected while travelling, you'll have more to spend on travel memories! 

So next time you’re planning a trip—whether it’s to the Rockies or the East Coast, enjoy your adventures with peace of mind knowing you're covered.

*Applies to CAA Members in good standing with dues paid in full by Membership expiry date. 10% savings applies to the total premium excluding applicable taxes. Minimum premium applies. Excludes Visitors to Canada Insurance. CAA Travel Insurance, an Orion Travel Insurance product, is underwritten by Echelon Insurance. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. A Medical Questionnaire may be required if you are 60 years of age and older. Quotes are valid for 30 days.