1. Who is eligible to purchase travel insurance?

2. How do I determine the level of coverage I need?
3. Can I purchase travel insurance after booking my trip?
4. Are pre-existing medical conditions covered under travel insurance?
5. What types of events or situations are typically covered by travel insurance?
6. Is it necessary to purchase separate coverage for my personal belongings?
7. What documents do I need to provide when filing a claim?
8. How long does it take for a claim to be processed and paid out?
9. What happens if my trip is cancelled or interrupted due to a natural disaster?
10. Can I cancel my travel insurance policy if I change my mind?

2. What does travel insurance cover?

Travel insurance typically covers unexpected events or situations during a trip, such as:

1. Trip cancellation or interruption: This coverage can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled or cut short due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness, injury, or death of yourself, a family member, or travel companion.

2. Emergency medical and dental care: This coverage can help pay for medical treatment if you become ill or injured while traveling, including emergency transport and evacuation.

3. Lost, stolen, or damaged luggage: This coverage can reimburse you for your belongings if they are lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip.

4. Flight delays and missed connections: This coverage can provide reimbursement for additional expenses like meals and accommodations if your flight is delayed for a certain amount of time.

5. Trip delays and missed activities: Some policies may offer reimbursement for prepaid activities or tours that you miss due to a covered reason.

6. Travel assistance services: Many travel insurance plans offer 24/7 assistance services such as emergency cash transfers, translation services, and legal referrals.

It’s important to note that what is covered specifically will vary depending on the policy and provider. It’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of the policy to understand exactly what is included in the coverage.

3. Is my pre-existing medical condition covered under travel insurance?

It depends on the type and severity of your pre-existing medical condition, as well as the specific policy and provider of your travel insurance. Some policies may cover pre-existing conditions while others may exclude them altogether. It is important to carefully read the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy or speak with a representative to determine if your specific condition will be covered.

4. How much coverage do I need for medical expenses?

The amount of coverage needed for medical expenses varies depending on individual circumstances such as current health conditions and anticipated medical needs. It is recommended to have enough coverage to cover potential emergency medical situations and ongoing healthcare costs. It is recommended to consult with a licensed insurance agent or financial advisor to determine an appropriate level of coverage for your specific needs.

5. Does travel insurance cover trip cancellations or interruptions due to unforeseen events?

Yes, travel insurance can cover trip cancellations or interruptions due to unforeseen events. These may include:

1. Medical emergencies: If you or a family member falls ill or is injured while traveling and cannot continue with your trip, travel insurance can provide coverage for the cancellation fees and other expenses.

2. Natural disasters: If a natural disaster such as a hurricane, earthquake, or tornado occurs at your travel destination and disrupts your plans, travel insurance can cover the costs of cancelling or rescheduling your trip.

3. Unforeseen work commitments: If you have to cancel your trip unexpectedly due to work commitments such as being called in for jury duty or being laid off, travel insurance can reimburse you for any non-refundable expenses.

4. Unforeseen death or injury: In case of the death or serious injury of you, a family member, or a traveling companion, resulting in the cancellation of your trip, travel insurance can cover the related expenses.

5. Terrorist attacks and political unrest: If there is a terrorist attack in your destination country that makes it unsafe for you to continue with your trip, travel insurance can provide coverage for trip cancellation costs.

It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your specific travel insurance policy to understand what events are covered and any exclusions that may apply.

6. Are acts of terrorism covered under travel insurance?

Yes, many travel insurance plans cover acts of terrorism. However, it is important to carefully review the policy to understand the specific coverage and exclusions related to acts of terrorism. Some policies may have limitations on coverage for terrorism-related events or only cover certain types of expenses, such as medical expenses or trip cancellation. Additionally, most travel insurance plans require that the terrorist incident occur in a location that is not your intended destination and/or within a certain time frame before your departure date. It is best to consult with your insurance provider for specific details about coverage for acts of terrorism.

7. What is the difference between single trip and annual multi-trip policies?

Single trip insurance provides coverage for a single trip within a specific time frame, usually from the time of departure until the time of return. Once the insured person returns home, the coverage ends and a new policy would need to be purchased for any future trips.

Annual multi-trip policies, on the other hand, provide coverage for multiple trips within a year. These policies generally have a maximum duration per trip (usually 30-90 days) and cover all trips taken during that year under one policy. This can be more cost-effective if you are someone who travels frequently throughout the year.

Ultimately, the main difference between single trip and annual multi-trip policies is the number of trips covered by each policy. Single trip insurance covers one specific trip, while annual multi-trip insurance covers multiple trips within a specified period of time.

8. Can I purchase travel insurance after I have commenced my trip?

It is possible to purchase travel insurance after beginning your trip, but it may have certain limitations and exclusions. Many insurance companies require you to purchase the policy before leaving your home country. If you do decide to purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, make sure to carefully review the coverage options and restrictions to ensure they meet your needs. Additionally, some insurance providers may also charge a higher premium for policies purchased during the trip. It is always advisable to buy travel insurance before embarking on a trip for comprehensive coverage.

9. Are adventure activities such as skiing or scuba diving covered under travel insurance?

It depends on the specific travel insurance policy and the level of coverage you have selected. Most standard travel insurance policies do not cover adventure activities such as skiing or scuba diving, but some may offer optional add-ons for these activities at an additional cost. It is important to carefully review your policy documents to understand what activities are covered under your plan and whether any additional coverage is needed for the activities you plan to participate in.

10. Does travel insurance cover lost or stolen luggage?

Most travel insurance policies will cover lost or stolen luggage as long as it was under the care of a common carrier (such as an airplane, train, or bus) during your trip. The coverage amount for lost or stolen luggage varies by policy and may also have per-item limits. It is important to read the specific terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to understand what is covered and any exclusions that may apply.

11. Is it mandatory to have travel insurance for international trips?

It is not mandatory to have travel insurance for international trips, however it is highly recommended. Travel insurance can help protect you against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost baggage, and other travel-related issues. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, some countries may require proof of travel insurance upon entry.

12. What is the maximum age limit for purchasing travel insurance?

The maximum age limit for purchasing travel insurance varies depending on the insurance provider and type of policy. Some policies may have an age limit of 70 or 75, while others may go up to 85 or higher. It is important to check with the specific insurance provider for their age limits before purchasing a policy. Additionally, some policies may also have restrictions on coverage for certain age groups, so it is important to carefully review the policy terms and conditions before making a purchase.

13. Can I extend my policy while on my trip if I decide to stay longer?

Depending on your insurance provider, it may be possible to extend your policy while you are on your trip. However, this is not guaranteed and not all policies offer extensions. It is important to check with your insurance provider before your trip to see if they offer extensions and what the process is for extending your policy. If you decide to stay longer during your trip, make sure to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to request an extension.

14. Do I need a separate policy for each member of my family/group traveling together?

Yes. Individual policies is required for each person with their own E-card and letter of issuance.

14B. Do I need a separate policy for children attending school abroad?
Yes. Underwriter may require proof of enrolment before policy acceptance in order to confirm that the child is enrolled in classes outside Canada

15. Does my medical history affect the rates charged for my travel insurance?
Possibly. Underwriters may take into account pre-existing medical conditions when determining premiums, so you might be charged a higher rate if you have a chronic or serious condition.

16. What should I do if I need emergency medical assistance while traveling?
If you need emergency medical assistance while traveling, contact the emergency assistance number provided in your policy documents immediately. They will be able to provide guidance and help you find appropriate medical care.

17. Can I cancel my travel insurance policy if my trip gets cancelled or postponed? Yes, most travel insurance policies have a cancellation clause that allows you to cancel your policy and receive a refund if your trip is cancelled or postponed before leaving for your destination. However, this would depend on the specific terms and conditions of your policy, so it’s important to review them carefully before purchasing the policy.

18. Can I extend my travel insurance coverage while I am already abroad?
Some policies may offer the option to extend coverage while you are already abroad, but not all policies have this option. It’s best to check with your insurance provider before purchasing the policy to see if this option is available.

19. Is there any type of coverage that is not included in travel insurance?
Most travel insurances will not cover extreme activities such as adventure sports like skydiving or bungee jumping, acts of war or terrorism, pre-existing mental health conditions and elective cosmetic procedures.

20.Is there any item which must be declared before departure ?
Items over a certain value (such as expensive jewelry) usually must be declared before departure. Some policies may also require you to declare any pre-existing medical conditions.

15. Are there any exclusions or conditions that may void my coverage?

Yes, there may be exclusions and conditions that can void your coverage. Some common exclusions include intentional acts, illegal activities, and pre-existing conditions. It is important to review your policy carefully and understand the specific exclusions and conditions that may apply to your coverage. Failure to adhere to these exclusions and conditions may result in your claim being denied.

16. How are claims processed and how long does it take to receive reimbursement?

Claims are processed by first submitting all necessary documentation, such as receipts and a completed claim form, to the insurance company. The company then reviews the claim to determine if it is covered under the policy and if any deductibles or co-pays apply. Once approved, reimbursement will typically be sent within a few weeks, depending on the specific insurance company’s processing time and method of payment (such as check or direct deposit). If there are any issues with the claim, such as missing information or disputes over coverage, it may take longer to receive reimbursement.

17. Are there any additional benefits or add-ons available with a standard policy?

Yes, there are additional benefits or add-ons that can be included in a standard policy for an additional cost. These may include:

1. Personal injury protection: This coverage can help cover medical expenses for you and your passengers if you are injured in a car accident.

2. Roadside assistance: This coverage provides services such as towing, jump-starts, and fuel delivery in case your car breaks down on the road.

3. Rental car reimbursement: If your car is being repaired after an accident, this coverage can help cover the cost of renting a car.

4. Gap insurance: If your car is totaled or stolen and you owe more on it than its actual cash value, gap insurance can help cover the difference.

5. Custom equipment coverage: If you have added custom parts or accessories to your vehicle, this coverage will protect them in case of damage or theft.

6. Accident forgiveness: With this benefit, your insurer may forgive one at-fault accident, meaning your rates won’t increase because of it.

7. New car replacement: If your new car is totaled within a certain time frame (usually one to two years), this coverage can help replace it with a brand new one rather than just reimbursing its depreciated value.

It’s important to check with your insurance provider about which add-ons are available and at what cost so you can determine which ones are necessary for you.

18. Will my credit card’s complimentary travel insurance be sufficient for my trip?

It depends on the coverage provided by your credit card’s complimentary travel insurance. It is important to carefully review the terms and conditions of your credit card’s insurance policy to determine if it offers adequate coverage for your trip. Some credit cards may offer basic coverage while others may provide more comprehensive protection. You can also consider purchasing additional travel insurance to supplement any gaps in coverage provided by your credit card.

19. Can I cancel my policy if my plans change before traveling?

Yes, you can cancel your policy if your plans change before traveling. However, the terms and conditions may vary depending on the insurance provider. It is best to check with your insurance company for their specific cancellation policy and any applicable fees.

20. What are some tips for choosing the right travel insurance policy?

1. Identify your needs: Before choosing a travel insurance policy, identify your specific needs. Consider factors like your destination, length of trip, type of activities you will be doing, and any pre-existing medical conditions you have.

2. Check coverage limits: Make sure the policy provides enough coverage for your trip. This includes coverage for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation or interruption, and lost/stolen baggage.

3. Compare policies: Don’t just choose the first policy you come across. Do some research and compare different policies to find one that best fits your needs and budget.

4. Read the fine print: Take the time to read the policy thoroughly and understand what is covered and what is not. Pay special attention to exclusions and limitations.

5. Look for reviews: It’s always helpful to read reviews from other travelers who have used a particular travel insurance company. This can give you an idea of their experience with filing claims and customer service.

6. Consider multi-trip or annual policies: If you are a frequent traveler, it may save you money in the long run to purchase a multi-trip or annual policy instead of individual policies for each trip.

7. Check coverage for pre-existing conditions: If you have a pre-existing medical condition, make sure it is covered by the policy. Some policies may exclude coverage for certain conditions or require additional fees.

8. Consider add-ons: Some insurance companies offer add-on options for specific needs such as cover for adventure activities, rental car excess cover or high-value items like cameras or laptops.

9. Understand cancellation policies: Make sure you understand the cancellation policy of the insurance company in case you need to cancel your trip before departure.

10. Check if your credit card offers travel insurance: Some credit cards provide complimentary travel insurance when purchasing flights using their card, so check if this is an option for you before purchasing a separate policy.