bcaa travel insurance ratings

HelloSafe » Travel Insurance » BCAA

Is BCAA travel insurance good? Updated Review 2024

verified information

Information verified by   Adeline Harmant

Our articles are written by experts in their fields (finance, trading, insurance etc.) whose signatures you will see at the beginning and at the end of each article. They are also systematically reviewed and corrected before each publication, and updated regularly.

BCAA Travel Insurance offers comprehensive and flexible travel insurance suitable for various travel needs, including individual and family plans.

Whether you're heading on a quick trip within Canada or to the USA or a long vacation to Europe or Asia, BCAA travel insurance has you covered with affordable options starting at $20 per trip. It offers extensive emergency medical and COVID coverage up to $10,000,000, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, free coverage for your kids, and more.

So what does BCAA travel insurance cover? Does it offer coverage for seniors? What are its pros and cons? What does it cost? How to get a BCAA travel insurance quote? Who is it best for? Find out all this in our comprehensive review.

BCAA Travel Insurance: Key Takeaways

• BCAA Travel Insurance plans start at just $20
• Up to $10,000,000 Emergency Medical and COVID-19 Coverage
• Comprehensive Single Trip and Annual Multi-trip Plan options
• Your kids are automatically covered for free
• BCAA members save 10% on premiums, and an additional 10%* as a loyalty discount
• Automatic payouts for flight and baggage delays
• One of BC's most trusted travel insurance brands
• You can get BCAA travel insurance quotes online

Our BCAA Travel Insurance Review

BCAA Travel Insurance is offered by BCAA which has been serving Canadians for over 80 years . BCAA provides a range of flexible travel insurance plans tailored to various travel needs of both Canadians travelling abroad and visitors to Canada . It provides affordable coverage starting at just $20 per trip.

BCAA travel insurance policy offers up to $10,000,000 in Emergency Medical and COVID-19 Coverage which is much higher than several other providers like Blue Cross travel insurance and CAA which offer up to $5 million. It offers both single-trip and annual multi-trip plans, and automatic and free travel insurance coverage for your children when both parents are insured.

If you're a BCAA member, you enjoy an instant 10% discount on premiums, with an additional 10% loyalty discount available. BCAA travel plans also include automatic payouts for flight and baggage delays , making it a convenient choice for travellers. You get access to 24/7 virtual care and worldwide medical assistance .

For visitors to Canada, the Travel Emergency Medical Insurance plan provides up to $300,000 for emergency treatments , including hospitalization, prescription drugs, and dental services. The coverage for visitors is higher than most providers like CAA travel insurance which has a limit of $150,000.

The Trip Protection Coverage plan offers reimbursement for trip cancellations, interruptions, airline delays, and baggage loss or delay, with automatic payouts for delays, including COVID-19 quarantine expenses .

What also makes CAA stand apart is the optional pre-existing condition coverage of up to $300,000 making sure those who are otherwise rejected by other insurers get coverage. There is also no age limit for BCAA travel insurance ensuring there's comprehensive coverage for seniors.

Expert advice

BCAA Travel Insurance is ideal for families, seniors, and frequent travellers seeking comprehensive travel coverage and reliable customer service . It's particularly beneficial for BCAA members who can take advantage of the discounts and loyalty rewards. It's also a great choice for those with pre-existing conditions, and those travelling with children who get free travel insurance.

Pros of BCAA Travel Insurance Canada

• BCAA offers budget-friendly travel insurance plans
• Up to 10,000,000 Emergency Medical + COVID-19 coverage
• Conveniently spread your payment across months in case of a tight budget
• BCAA travel insurance is also available to seniors - No age limit
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions
• BCAA travel insurance reviews are positive for customer service and easy claims handling
• Get BCAA travel insurance quotes online
• BCAA members get a 10% discount and could qualify for an additional 10% loyalty discount
• You can insure trips as long as 365 days
• Pet Boarding coverage is available

Cons of BCAA Travel Insurance Canada

• Medical questionnaires and exams if you are above 60
• No coverage for adventure and extreme sports activities
• Only BCAA members get special discounts on travel insurance plans

Before choosing BCAA travel insurance, compare other options and quotes. A little shopping around can help you to save money and find coverage that fits your needs. Use our free tool below to compare travel insurance quotes from Canada's best providers.

Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!

What does BCAA travel insurance cover?

BCAA travel insurance offers three types of plans to meet all your travel needs. Here are the key details:

1. Travel Emergency Medical Insurance

• Coverage Limit: Up to $10,000,000 per person, per trip.
• Included Services: Hospital, physician, ambulance services, and more.
• 24/7 Virtual Care: Access medical help anywhere in the world.
• Worldwide Medical Assistance: Direct payment to medical providers whenever possible.
• Pre-existing Condition Coverage: Optional coverage up to $300,000 for unstable conditions.

2. Visitors to Canada Travel Emergency Medical Insurance

• Coverage Limit: Up to $300,000 for emergency medical treatment.
• Emergency Medical Services: Coverage for hospitalization and emergency treatments.
• Prescription Drugs: Cost covered during hospital stay and a 30-day supply post-discharge.
• Dental Services: Coverage for emergency dental expenses.
• 24/7 Virtual Care: Medical help anywhere in the world.

3. Trip Protection Coverage

• Coverage: Trip cancellation, trip interruption, airline delays, baggage loss or delay.
• Trip Cancellation & Interruption: Recover pre-paid travel fees if the trip is cancelled or interrupted.
• Baggage Insurance: Coverage for loss, damage, or theft of personal items.
• Travel Accident Coverage: Covers death, dismemberment, or loss of sight due to an accident.
• Travel Delay +AutoPay: Automatic payouts for flight and baggage delays, including COVID-19 quarantine expenses.

Good to know

BCAA offers both single and multi-trip options for you to choose from.

• Single Trip Plan : Ideal for travellers taking one or two trips a year; provides comprehensive protection for a single trip.
• Annual Multi-Trip Plan : Perfect for frequent travellers; offers year-long protection for multiple trips, based on the length of the longest trip.

Additional Benefits

• Pre-existing Condition Coverage: Optional coverage up to $300,000.
• Kids Go Free: Kids are covered at no extra cost when both parents are insured.
• 24/7 Emergency Assistance: Available anytime, anywhere.
• Travel Delay Coverage: For flight delays over 4 hours or baggage delays over 6 hours.
• Worldwide Virtual Care: 24/7 access to medical help.

For more information on BCAA travel insurance policy, download the PDF below:

Here's a quick table on the BCAA Travel Insurance coverage

Before you explore travel insurance plans, you must also check the coverage offered on your credit card. Most Canadian credit cards from top providers offer insurance benefits. You can use our free tool to check the credit card travel insurance benefits on your card.

Does BCAA cover COVID-19-related travelling issues?

BCAA offers up to $10,000,000 for COVID-19-related medical costs outside of Canada for vaccinated policyholders . Vaccinated Visitors to Canada are also covered. The amount depends on the purchased travel insurance plan.

Key aspects of the BCAA travel insurance COVID coverage are:

• Emergency Medical Coverage: Up to $10,000,000, including COVID-19.
• Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Covers non-refundable travel costs due to COVID-19.
• Travel Delay + AutoPay: Automatic payouts for delays due to COVID-19 quarantine.
• Quarantine Expenses: Coverage for mandatory quarantine costs.
• Pre-existing Conditions : Optional coverage for COVID-19-related complications.

BCAA travel insurance pre-existing conditions coverage

BCAA offers coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, provided the conditions are stable before travel. Up to $300,000 in optional coverage is available for unstable pre-existing conditions.

BCAA travel insurance for seniors

BCAA provides comprehensive travel insurance tailored for seniors, including emergency medical coverage up to $10 million, 24/7 emergency assistance, and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions which seniors are more likely to have.

You can explore the best travel insurance for seniors in our comprehensive guide.

BCAA travel insurance pregnancy coverage

BCAA covers emergency medical expenses related to pregnancy up to 31 weeks , provided the pregnancy is not considered high-risk. This includes unexpected complications and necessary medical treatments while travelling.

How much is BCAA Travel Insurance?

BCAA travel insurance plans start from as little as $20. Here are sample BCAA travel insurance quotes we obtained on July 31, 2024:

BCAA Travel Insurance Cost depends on several variables like:

• Your desired coverage and options.
• Your deductible.
• Your waiting period.
• Your destination(s).
• The length of your trip.

Therefore, we advise you to get a customized BCAA travel insurance quote for accurate rates.

Before settling on BCAA, check out other travel insurance plans, coverages and prices using our free comparison tool below. Compare free travel insurance quotes online and get instant results with our free HelloSafe tool.

How to get a BCAA travel insurance quote?

You can get a BCAA travel insurance quote easily online, via phone, or in person. Here's how:

• Online: Visit the BCAA travel page, click "Get a Quote," enter your trip details, and review your quote.
• Phone: Call BCAA at 1-888-268-2222, provide your trip details, and receive a quote from a representative.
• In-Person: Visit one of the BCAA travel insurance offices, discuss your travel plans with a representative, and get a quote on the spot.

How to claim BCAA travel insurance?

There are several convenient options for making a BCAA travel insurance claim. Follow the steps below to ensure a smooth claims process.

Online Claims

• Visit the Global Excel Management (GEM) website .
• Create or log in to your account to start your claim.
• If you've already started a claim, you can check the status online here .

Email Claims

• Send your claim details to [email protected] .
• To check your claim status or provide more information, email BCAA Claims Assistance at [email protected] .

Phone Claims

• Call 1.833.560.0522.
• Call 800.083.0811.
• Dial 800.464.71111.
• To use this service, first dial the international access code for Canada, then enter the 11-digit toll-free number. Note: Service may not be available in all countries.
• Call 519.325.1567.
• To make a collect call, contact the operator in the country you're in and request to make a collect call. If you have difficulty reaching BCAA, call directly at 1.519.325.1567, and BCAA will reimburse the call.

BCAA travel insurance Google reviews and other feedback from customers are largely positive. BCAA has a strong reputation for customer service and reliability. Many users report satisfaction with the prompt and efficient handling of claims​.

How can I contact BCAA travel insurance?

You can contact BCAA by phone, filling up an online form, or walking into one of the BCAA travel insurance offices.

• Phone: Call their expert advisors at 1-888-268-2222. Available Monday to Friday from 8:00 am – 6:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.
• In-Person: Visit one of 29 locations across BC. Walk-ins are welcome and encouraged. Limited appointments are available for booking online.
• Online Form: For non-urgent enquiries, fill out the Contact Us form on the BCAA website, and a representative will get back to you.

Detailed Coverage of BCAA Travel Insurance Plans

Based on the provided document, here are the coverage details under each BCAA travel insurance plan, structured into separate tables:

2. Trip Protection Package

3. visitors to canada travel emergency medical insurance.

Nishadh Mohammed is a seasoned news editor and financial writer, working with HelloSafe since May 2023. Nishadh has developed expertise in financial markets, insurance, and investment products, with a deep understanding of the Canadian financial landscape. He has honed his SEO skills and content marketing strategies while writing for Canadian publishing houses. Armed with a master's in Business Analytics and extensive journalistic experience, Nishadh uniquely combines data proficiency and thorough research to deliver comprehensive and accessible information.

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in August 2024

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that travelers need to be prepared for the unexpected — from a pandemic to flight troubles to the crowded airport terminals so many of us have encountered.

If you don't have sufficient travel insurance coverage via your credit card , you can supplement your policies with third-party plans.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care or a policy that includes extreme sports, these are the best travel insurance providers to get you covered.

How we found the best travel insurance

We looked at quotes from various companies for a 10-day trip to Mexico in September 2024. The traveler was a 55-year-old woman from Florida who spent $3,000 total on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan was $126.53. The costs displayed below do not include optional add-ons, such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage or pre-existing medical condition coverage.

Read our full analysis about the average cost of travel insurance so you can budget better for your next trip.

However, depending on the plan, you may be able to customize at an added cost.

As we continue to evaluate more travel insurance companies and receive fresh market data, this collection of best travel insurance companies is likely to change. See our full methodology for more details.

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover, what’s not covered, how much does it cost, do i need travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, what are the top travel destinations in 2024, more resources for travel insurance shoppers.

Top credit cards with travel insurance

Methodology

Best travel insurance overall: berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

• ExactCare Value (basic) plan is among the least expensive we surveyed.
• Speciality plans available for road trips, luxury travel, adventure activities, flights and cruises.
• Company may reimburse claimants faster than average, including possible same-day compensation.
• Multiple "Trip Delay" coverage types might make claims confusing.
• Cheapest plan only includes fixed amounts for its coverage.

Under the direction of chair and CEO Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has been around since 2014. Its plans provide numerous opportunities for travelers to customize coverage to their needs.

At $135 for our sample trip, the ExactCare Value (basic) plan from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers protection roughly $10 above the average price.

Want something cheaper? Air travelers looking for inexpensive, less comprehensive protections might opt for a basic AirCare plan that includes fixed amounts for its coverage .

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at nearly all plan levels. 

Plans available for travelers going on a cruise, participating in extreme sports or taking a luxury trip.

ExactCare Value (basic) plan was among the least expensive we surveyed.

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

Allianz Global Assistance is a reputable travel insurance company offering plans for over 25 years. Customers can choose from a variety of single and annual policies to fit their needs. On top of comprehensive coverage, some travelers might opt for the more affordable OneTrip Cancellation Plus, which is geared toward domestic travelers looking for trip protections but don’t need post-departure benefits like emergency medical or baggage lost.

For our test trip, Allianz Global Assistance’s basic coverage cost $149, about $22 above average.

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

Stand-alone and add-on rental car damage product available.

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

Best for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions: Travel Guard by AIG

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

Travel Guard by AIG offers a variety of plans and coverages to fit travelers’ needs. On top of more standard trip protections like trip cancellation, interruption, baggage and medical coverage, the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available on certain Travel Guard plans, which allows you to cancel a trip for any reason and get 50% of your nonrefundable deposit back as long as the trip is canceled at least two days before the scheduled departure date.

At $107 for our sample trip, the Essential plan was below average, saving roughly $20.

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

Three comprehensive plans and a Pack N' Go plan for last-minute travelers who don't need cancellation benefits.

Flight protection, car rental, and medical evacuation coverage, as well as annual plans available.

Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver available on all plan levels, as long as it's purchased within 15 days.

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

• Higher-level plan include optional add-ons for event tickets and for electronic equipment
• Rental car protection add-on for just $8 per day, even on lower-level plan.
• Many of the customizations are only available on the higher-tier plan.
• Coverage cost comes in above average in our latest analysis.

Travel Insured International offers several customization options. For instance, those going to see a show may want to add on event ticket registration fee protection. Traveling with expensive gear?Consider adding on coverage for electronic equipment for up to $2,000 in coverage.

Be sure to check which policies are available in your state. You will need to input your destination, residence, trip dates and the number of travelers to get a quote and see coverages.

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

Comprehensive plans include medical expense reimbursement accidents, sickness, evacuation and pre-existing conditions, depending on the plan.

Flight plans include coverage for missed and canceled flights and lost or stolen baggage.

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

Many travel insurance plans contain exclusions for adventure sports activities. If you plan to ski, bungee jump, windsurf or parasail, this might be a plan to consider.

Note that the Standard plan ($72 for our sample trip), while the most affordable, provides less coverage than other plans. But it can be a good choice for travelers who are satisfied with trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $2,500 or less, do not need rental car damage protection, find the limits to be sufficient and do not need coverage for certain more adventurous activities.

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

Coverage available for adventure activities, such as trekking, mountain biking and scuba diving.

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

For starters, basic coverage from Travelex Insurance Services came in at $125, almost exactly average for our sample trip.

Travelex’s plans focus heavily on providing protections that are personalized to your travel style and trip type.

While the company does offer comprehensive plans that include medical benefits, you can also choose between cheaper plans that don’t provide cancellation coverage but do offer protections during your travels.

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Three comprehensive plans available, two of which cover international trips.

Offers a post-departure plan geared exclusively toward disruptions after you leave home.

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

Each Seven Corners plan offers several optional add-ons. Among the more unique is a Trip Interruption for Any Reason, which allows you to interrupt a trip 48 hours after the scheduled departure date (for any reason) and receive a refund of up to 75% of your unused nonrefundable deposits.

» Jump to the best cards with travel insurance

The basic coverage plan for our trip to Mexico costs $124 — right around the average.

What else makes Seven Corners great:

Comprehensive plans for U.S. residents and foreigners, including travelers visiting the U.S.

Cheap add-ons for rental car damage, sporting equipment rental or trip interruption for any reason.

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

• Coverage available for adventure travelers.
• Offers direct billing.
• Claim approval can be lengthy.

While some travel insurance companies offer just a handful of plans, with IMG, you’ll really have your pick. Though this requires a bit more research, it allows you to search for coverage that fits your travel needs.

However, travelers will want to be aware that IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite is expensive. Coming in at $149.85, it’s the costliest plan on our list.

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

• In addition Cancel For Any Reason, some plans offer cancel for work reason coverage.
• Adventure sports-specific coverage is available.
• Plans have overlap that can be hard to distinguish.
• Only one plan includes Rental Car Damage coverage available as an add-on.

Tin Leg’s Basic plan came in at $134 for our sample trip, adding about $8 onto the average basic policy cost. Note that you’ll pay a lot more if you shop for the most comprehensive coverage, and there are eight plans to choose from for trips abroad.

The multitude of plans can help you find coverage that fits your needs, but with so many to choose from, deciding can be daunting.

The only real way to figure out your ideal plan is to compare them all, look at the plan details and decide which features and coverage suit you and your travel style best.

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

• Covers up to $300 redepositing points and miles on eligible canceled award flights.
• Optional add-on protection for business equipment or sports rentals.
• Multi-trip or year-long plans aren’t available.

Selecting your travel insurance plan with TravelSafe is a fairly straightforward process. The company’s website also makes it easy to visualize how optional add-on elements influence the total cost, displaying the final price as soon as you click the coverage.

However, at $136, the Basic plan was among the more expensive for our trip to Mexico.

What else makes TravelSafe great:

Rental car damage coverage add-on is available on both plans.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage available on the TravelSafe Classic plan.

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

• Covers travelers up to 95 years old.
• Includes direct pay option so members can avoid having to pay up front for services.
• A 24-hour delay is required for baggage delay coverage on the TripProtector Economy plan.
• No waivers for pre-existing conditions on the lower-level plan.

HTH offers single-trip and multitrip medical insurance coverage as well as trip protection plans.

At around $125, the Trip Protector Economy policy is at the average mark for plans we reviewed.

You can choose to insure group trips for educators, crew, religious missionaries and corporate travelers.

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

As you shop for travel insurance, you’ll find many of the same coverage categories across numerous plans.

Trip cancellation

This covers the prepaid costs you make for your trip in cases when you need to cancel for a covered reason. This coverage helps you recoup upfront costs paid for flights and nonrefundable hotel reservations.

Trip interruption

Trip interruption benefits generally involve disruptions after you depart. It helps reimburse costs incurred for flight delays, cancellations and plenty of other covered disruptions you might encounter during your travels.

This coverage can cover the costs for you to return home or reimburse unexpected expenses like an extra hotel stay, meals and ground transportation.

Trip delay coverage helps cover unexpected costs when your trip is delayed. This is another coverage that helps offset the costs of flight trouble or other travel disruptions.

Note that many policies have a total amount a traveler can claim, with caps on per diem benefits, too.

Cancel For Any Reason

Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to recoup some of the upfront costs you paid for a trip even if you’re canceling for a reason not otherwise covered by your standard travel insurance policy.

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

This coverage helps cover the costs of essential items you might need when your luggage is delayed. Think toiletries, clothing and other immediate items you might need if your luggage didn’t make it on your flight.

Many travel insurance plans with baggage delay protection will specify how long (six, 12, 24 hours, etc.) your luggage must be delayed before you can make a claim.

Lost baggage

Used for travelers whose luggage is lost or stolen, this helps recoup the lost value of the items in your bag.

You’ll want to make sure you closely follow the correct procedures for your plan. Many plans include a maximum total amount you can claim under this coverage and a per-item cap.

Travel medical insurance

This covers out-of-pocket medical costs when travelers run into an emergency.

Because many travelers’ health insurance plans don’t cover medical care overseas, travel medical insurance can help offset out-of-pocket health care costs.

In addition to emergency medical coverage, many plans have medical evacuation or repatriation coverage for costs incurred when you must be taken to a hospital or return to your home country because of a medical situation.

Most travel insurance plans cover many trip protections that can help you be prepared for unexpected travel disruptions and expenses.

These coverages are generally aimed at protecting the money you put into your trip, expenses you incur because of travel trouble and costs incurred if you have a medical emergency overseas.

On top of core coverages like trip cancellation and interruption and travel medical coverage, some plans offer add-on options like waivers for pre-existing conditions, rental car collision damage waivers or adventure sports riders. These usually cost extra or must be added within a specified timeframe.

Typical travel insurance policies offer coverage for many unforeseen events, but as you research to select a plan, consider your needs. Though every plan differs, there are some commonly excluded coverages.

For instance, you typically can’t get coverage for a named storm if you bought the coverage after the storm was named. In other words, if you have a trip to the Caribbean booked for Sept. 25 and on Sept. 20 a hurricane develops and is named, you generally won’t be able to buy a travel insurance plan Sept. 21 in hopes of getting your money back.

Many plans also don’t cover activities performed under the influence of drugs or alcohol or any extreme sports. If the latter applies to you, you might want to consider a plan with specific coverages for adventure-seekers.

For numerous plans, a few other situations don’t qualify as an acceptable reason to cancel and make a claim, such as fear of travel, medical tourism or pregnancies (unless you booked a trip and bought insurance before you became pregnant or there are complications with the pregnancy). This is where a Cancel For Any Reason add-on to your coverage can be helpful.

You can also run into trouble if you give up on a trip too soon: a minor (or even multihour) flight delay likely isn’t sufficient to cancel your entire trip and get reimbursed through your plan. Be sure to review what requirements your specific plan has when it comes to canceling a trip, claiming trip interruption, etc.

Travel insurance costs vary widely. The final price of your plan will fluctuate based on your age, length of trip and destination.

It will also depend on how much coverage you need, whether you add on specialized policies (like Cancel For Any Reason or pre-existing conditions coverage), whether you plan to participate in extreme sports and other factors.

In our examples above, for instance, the 35-year-old traveler taking a $2,000 trip to Italy would have spent an average $76 for a basic plan to get coverage for things like trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, etc. That’s a little less than 4% of the total trip cost — lower than average.

If there were multiple members in a traveling party or if they were going on, say, a rock-climbing or bungee-jumping excursion, the costs would go up.

On average, travel insurance comes to about 5% to 10% of the trip cost. However, considering many of the plans reimburse up to 100% of the trip cost (or more) for disruptions like trip cancellation or interruption, it can be a worthwhile expense if something goes wrong.

It depends. Consider the following factors that might affect your decision: You’re young and healthy, all your bookings are refundable or cancelable without a penalty, your flights are nonstop, you’re not checking bags and a credit card you carry offers some travel protections . In that case, travel insurance might not be necessary.

On the other hand, if you prepaid a large chunk of money for a nonrefundable African safari, you’re going on a Caribbean cruise in the middle of a hurricane season or you’re going somewhere where the cost of health care is high, it’s not a bad idea to buy a travel insurance plan. Here’s how to find the best travel insurance coverage for you.

If you’re thinking of booking a trip and not planning to buy travel insurance, you may want to consider at least booking refundable airfare and not prepaying for hotel, rental car and activity reservations. That way, if something goes wrong, you can cancel without losing any money.

Selecting the best travel insurance policy comes down to your needs, concerns, preferences and budget.

As you book, take a few minutes to consider what most concerns you. Is it getting stranded because of flight trouble? Having the ability to cancel for any reason you see fit without losing money? Getting sick or injured right before departure and needing to postpone the trip? Injuring yourself or falling ill while overseas?

Ultimately, you want a plan that protects you, your money and the large investment in your trip — but doesn’t cost too much, either.

Medical coverage. If your priority is having adequate medical coverage abroad, you might want to look for plans with high limits for medical emergencies and medical evacuation.

Complex travel itinerary. If your itinerary has lots of flight connections, prepaid hotels and deposits for activities you can’t get back, prioritizing a plan with the best coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions may land at the top of your list.

Travel uncertainty. If you’re on the fence about a trip and have nonrefundable reservations, you may want to select a plan with a Cancel For Any Reason coverage option, which can help you recoup about 50% to 75% of the costs. This helps provide peace of mind, placing the decision on whether to travel entirely in your hands.

Car rentals. If you’re renting a car, a collision damage waiver is often worth looking into.

The following destinations are the top insured destinations in 2024, according to Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner).

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

In 2022, travelers spent about 25.53% more on trips than they did before the pandemic.

As of December, NerdWallet analysis determined travel prices are 10% higher than pre-pandemic. Each statistic makes a strong case for protecting your travel investment as you plan your next trip.

Bookmark these resources to help you make smart money moves as you shop for travel insurance.

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight:

Breadth of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered plus the range of their standard plans. 

Depth of coverage: We considered two data points to get a sense of how much each company pays out for common travel issues — the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims.

Cost: By looking at the costs for basic coverage across multiple companies, we determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices against.

Customizability: While standard plans can cover a lot of ground, sometimes you need something a little more personal.

Customer satisfaction. Using data from Squaremouth when available, and Google Reviews as a backup, we can give kudos to companies with better track records from their clients.

No, it doesn’t necessarily get more expensive the longer you wait to purchase. However, as you put off buying insurance, you may lose access to potential plans and coverage options.

In general, buying travel insurance within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

But, generally, many plans do allow you to buy coverage quite close to your departure date.

To get the most out of your travel insurance plan, buy it soon after making your initial prepayment or deposit to ensure you have access to the biggest menu of plans possible.

Select a plan that’s comprehensive enough to cover the travel scenarios you’re most concerned about or likely to encounter but not too expensive or laden with protections you’d never likely need.

Whatever your coverage, thoroughly review the plan so you understand what’s covered and what’s not, plus how to adhere to the plan’s rules for making a claim.

Travelers frequently use phrases like “trip insurance” and “travel insurance,” as well as “trip protection,” interchangeably, but they do mean different things, according to Stan Sandberg, founder of insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com.

Trip insurance, or trip protection, generally refers to predeparture (or preevent) coverage if you need to cancel. You may see these plans sold by airlines, online travel agencies or even ticketed event sellers.

“You could refer to it as the portion that protects the investment in the trip,” Sandberg says.

A travel insurance plan typically includes that — plus more comprehensive benefits to protect you during your trip, from medical coverage to trip delay and lost baggage protections, and many more elements, depending on the plan.

Though travel insurance is typically not required for international trips, your personal circumstances will play a key role in whether it’s a good investment.

For instance, young, healthy travelers with few prepaid trip expenses embarking on a relatively risk-free trip may not see a need to buy a plan.

Older travelers with complicated itineraries who are visiting destinations where they could potentially fall ill or get injured — or who could encounter bad weather or some other disrupting factor along the way — may want to buy coverage.

Consider a few key questions:

How well would your health insurance plan cover you if you needed to visit a hospital overseas?

How much did you prepay for a hotel or rental car?

How much money would you be out if weather or some other flight issue derailed your itinerary?

Could you afford an unexpected night in a city where you have a connecting flight?

Do you already have a credit card that provides some travel protections?

Your answers to these questions can help you decide whether you need travel insurance for your international trip.

In general, buying travel insurance

within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit

for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

On a similar note...

By Lisa Jackson

Best travel insurance in Canada

Day Of Victory Studio / Shutterstock

You’ve packed your bags, mapped your itinerary, and set your “out of office” message – it’s vacation time! But what about travel insurance?

According to a 2024 study by Pacific Blue Cross ,  a British Columbia health benefits provider, 87% of Canadians recognize the risks of travelling without insurance, while 57% purchase a policy at least occasionally. However, younger generations remain rather hesitant about the need for this coverage when travelling abroad. Nearly half of Gen Z travellers (47%) who never purchase insurance say it is because they don't think anything anything bad will happen when vacationing. They also underestimate the actual cost of emergency medical care more than any other generational cohort. 

As a professional travel writer, I find this rather alarming. Canadian health insurance is not valid outside Canada, and your provincial or territorial health plan may not cover all the costs even if you’re travelling domestically. If you suffer an accident or get sick abroad, unexpected medical bills can bankrupt you. It’s why the Canadian government advises all travellers to buy travel insurance, and I never leave the country without it. Whether you’re taking a two-week trip or a spending a year abroad, every one needs the best travel insurance offered to Canadians, regardless of age, health status, destination or length of vacation.

Best for thrill seekers: World Nomads

Designed for adrenaline lovers with wanderlust, World Nomads insures a long list of adventure sports, activities and volunteer or work experiences, as well as sporting equipment delay/loss/theft. You also get access to a 24/7 hotline that provides information that adventure travellers may need including weather reports and travel advisories, assistance locating the nearest trail and finding a gear shop.

The standard policy covers emergency medical expenses up to $5 million, emergency dental, trip cancellation/interruption/delay, baggage delays/theft/damage and more. The downside: You must be under 66 years of age to qualify.

Best for families: CAA Travel Insurance

A long-trusted Canadian institution, CAA travel Insurance offers flexible travel plans to suit every type of traveller and vacation, but its policies are particularly great for families. The stand-alone emergency medical policy of up to $5 million in health coverage is extremely comprehensive, even including medical repatriation, emergency dental and reimbursements for pet care and kennelling.

The Vacation Package Plan provides full cancellation/interruption insurance – ideal for prepaid, all-inclusive vacation packages – and family transportation and escort of children during emergencies. Anyone can buy CAA travel insurance but members get a 10% discount.

CAA’s emergency medical plans also now include coverage for COVID-19-related illnesses for vaccinated customers. Coverage is up to $2.5 million if partially vaccinated and up to $5 million if fully vaccinated.

Best for seniors and retirees: Blue Cross

Blue Cross has been around for more than 70 years, and 1 in 4 Canadians utilize its travel insurance. The company's emergency medical covers up to $5 million. It has special “snowbird” travel insurance packages designed for Canadians who head to warmer climates each year, making Blue Cross ideal for retirees.

Part of the package is the Flight Delay Service, a free perk that provides a range of benefits if including exclusive coupons for access to lounges or hotels (depending on the length of the delay). Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered.

Best for budget travellers: Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance

Starting at only $1.36 a day, Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance offers very affordable travel insurance packages. Yes, it’s geared toward students (e.g., you can swap your travel dates at no charge due to an exam schedule conflict), but anyone between 15 and 50 years of age can purchase a policy.

The standard package includes hospital and medical up to $1 million, dental care, air ambulance evacuation, flight accident, accidental death or dismemberment and trip interruption/cancellation insurance. Adventure and extreme sports are also covered.

Best for Canadians with pre-existing medical conditions: Manulife CoverMe

Manulife CoverMe offers highly comprehensive Canadian travel insurance packages and You access to the TravelAid mobile app, which provides directions to the nearest medical facility and local emergency telephone numbers.

However, the stand-out feature is arguably TravelEase – a special policy designed to cover fully disclosed medical conditions. For travellers with pre-existing conditions, it insures a bunch of expenses for health services and transportation. It provides up to $10 million in emergency medical benefits – a unicorn in the travel insurance world.

Best for emergency medical assistance: Medipac Travel Insurance

Medipac is one of the only travel insurance companies out there that is staffed by their own team of trained medical professionals, via its Medipac Assistance hotline. The company's medical professionals are your first point of contact in an emergency medical situation. This service is also helpful for dealing with foreign medical systems and helping prevent unnecessary expenses when dealing with a large deductible.

Medipac offers several competitive features for their travel insurance plans, including no age limits, a claim-free discount and a 90-day stability period for most pre-existing conditions. If your pre-existing medical condition isn’t covered by a standard Medipac insurance plan, the company also offers personalized, underwritten insurance policies to help you meet your needs.

Medipac provides coverage for up to $5 million USD, including COVID-19, in addition to its other benefits. Additionally, most new clients may be able to save 3-5% in their first year with the company's Claim-free Advantage discount.

Best for frequent travellers: Allianz Travel Insurance

Touted as a world leader in the Canadian travel insurance and assistance industry, Allianz Travel Insurance is a major provider of travel insurance, corporate assistance, and concierge services. It seeks to help its customers find solutions to various travel-related problems. Allianz Travel has partnered with many reputable companies, including travel agencies, airlines, resorts, websites, event ticket brokers, corporations, universities and credit card companies.

Allianz Travel Insurance is a great choice for anyone looking for travel insurance. Its single-trip plans are perfect for those leaving home and visiting another destination (or destinations) before going back home. Its parent company, Allianz Global Assistance, has five plans to choose from, all offering different levels of protection and coverage.

Allianz Travel Insurance’s annual/multi-trip plans are perfect for both personal and professional travelers who take multiple trips in a year. It offers four distinct options to choose from.

Will my provincial insurance be valid overseas?

No! If you get sick or injured overseas, the Canadian government will not cough up a dime to cover your medical costs. Here are the sobering facts:

• Canadian public health insurance is not valid outside of Canada.
• Foreign hospitals can be extremely expensive and may demand payment before treating you.
• The Canadian government will not pay a Canadian’s medical bills for an illness or accident suffered abroad. You’re on the hook for footing the bill!

Will my provincial insurance work in another province/territory?

Flash your valid provincial health card in another part of Canada and you’ll likely be covered for some of the same services insured by your home provincial plan. This is because the provinces and territories (except Quebec) signed an agreement whereby the host province foots the bill for any medically necessary health care services and gets reimbursed by the home province later.

However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of the woods. Depending on your destination, a slew of other services may not be covered such as an ambulance, hospital transfer, prescription drugs, transportation back to your home province and procedures not currently approved by your home plan.

Additionally, since Quebec wasn’t a signatory to the interprovincial billing agreement, you’ll likely be charged for any medical bills incurred there. For this reason, it’s recommended that you buy extra travel insurance (or verify your  credit card’s travel insurance coverage ) to cover any uninsured health care services that may crop up during your trip.

What does the best travel insurance in Canada cover?

Every travel insurance policy is different and what’s covered depends on how much you’re willing to pay for coverage. Typical medical services that you can expect to be covered include:

• Emergency hospital and medical costs
• Ambulance and air ambulance costs
• Outpatient services
• Physician and laboratory costs
• Prescription drugs
• Direct payment to the hospitals and doctors caring for you
• Assistance with bringing a family member to your bedside
• Air ambulance or commercial repatriation home
• Return of your vehicle if you are ill and have to come home

Additional benefits may include:

• Trip cancellation for non-refundable monetary losses
• Trip interruption
• Baggage loss, rental car damage, out-of-pocket expenses
• Accidental death and dismemberment

How much coverage do I need?

Securing a policy with a $1 million as a maximum payable is a safe bet. But don’t just look at the numbers when choosing a policy – read the fine print. Every insurer has a list of situations in which coverage is not provided, otherwise known as “exclusions.” Check whether your provider includes coverage or has provisions for the following:

• Pre-existing medical conditions: According to the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers, a pre-existing condition is “something that happened (or started to happen) before you were insured.” Some policies may cover claims relating to pre-existing conditions that are “stable and controlled,” but read the definitions carefully. If you don’t declare a condition, the entire policy could be invalidated!
• Medical evacuation: Ensure the policy covers medical evacuation to the nearest hospital and/or to Canada, as well as the costs of a medical escort to accompany you to your final destination.
• Repatriation in case of death: On the grim side, ensure that your plan covers the preparation and return of your remains to Canada.
• Adventurous Activities: If you plan on engaging in “high-risk” activities on your trip, you may need to shell out extra money for a more comprehensive plan. Many policies don’t cover “risky” activities, such as skiing or snowboarding “out of bounds,” skydiving, scuba diving, white-water rafting, mountaineering or participation in any rodeo activity. To cover your bases, ask questions and get specifics before purchasing a policy.

You may have to pay more to have these things included, but a few extra bucks may be worth it for peace of mind.

Should I buy “a la carte” travel insurance or get a travel credit card with free insurance?

A credit card with travel insurance is always a good thing to carry in your wallet. The  best travel credit cards in Canada  usually cover everything from emergency medical costs to trip cancellation/interruption to flight delay to rental car insurance, which could save you a wad of cash.

The  Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card  has saved my butt a few times, and I’ve filed several travel-related claims through my card. I cancelled my trip to Portugal a few years ago due to a death in the family, and I got a full refund on my hotel deposit and flights for myself, my husband and my baby. It totally justified the $120 annual fee.

That being said, don’t rely on your credit card to take care of all your travel insurance needs. It usually includes a basic policy, meaning it offers low (or no!) travel medical insurance as part of the package. Like any travel insurance company policy, you’ve really got to read the fine print and understand the conditions of your policy to avoid sticky situations.

For instance, the Scotiabank Gold American Express ® Card requires a cardholder to have charged at least 75% of trip expenses to make a trip cancellation/interruption insurance claim. So if you book an all-inclusive vacation for $5,000 and then cancel due to illness, at least $3,750 must have been charged onto your AMEX to qualify for a claim. If you didn’t do that, you’re out of luck.

Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more. *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.

Can I still purchase insurance if i’ve already started my vacation?

The short answer: most insurance providers won’t cover you after your departure date. However, a handful of insurers (such as World Nomads) will allow you to purchase a policy while already overseas. Just know that it can come with sky-high costs and/or conditions: World Nomads has a 48-hour waiting period before coverage kicks in. The bottom line? It’s always best to buy travel insurance before leaving the country.

Can I get travel insurance for part of a trip?

Some plans offer insurance coverage options that will allow you to customize your coverage, but you’ll have to research to find one that works for your unique circumstances. Alternatively, you could take out an insurance policy for each destination and/or segment of your trip.

For instance, you could get a World Nomads policy for the two weeks you’re scuba diving in Australia, followed by a basic Travel CUTS Bon Voyage insurance to cover a month-long trip to Europe. However, when you buy Canadian travel insurance, you must select a trip start and end date – meaning you must know the exact dates for travelling to those places.

Should I carry a printout of my policy with me at all times?

I recommend carrying the travel insurance card in your wallet and locking it up in the hotel safe with other important travel documents like your passport. But don’t rely totally on paper: Wallets get lost or stolen, luggage can be delayed or M.I.A. and papers are easy to misplace when you’re on the road. My advice is to send a copy of the policy to your email and save it on your iCloud or another storage system that can be accessed anywhere, anytime.

Recommended reads

• What’s the Added Value of a Credit Card with Travel Insurance?
• The Best Travel Rewards Programs in Canada
• Aeroplan vs. AIR MILES vs. Avio n

Lisa Jackson is a freelance personal finance and travel journalist, editor, and blogger who contributes to various online and print media outlets in Canada and abroad, including The Globe & Mail, Toronto Star, Islands Magazine, Fodors, BRIDES, Huffington Post Canada, CAA Magazine, The Food Network, West Jet Magazine, NUVO Magazine, and many others. When she's not writing from her home office, she's busy globe-trotting to new destinations in search of her next story.

Latest Articles

Merchant category codes, the top 22 cheapest places to live in canada, why you need a f--- off fund, where is american express accepted in canada, cerb is ending, 5 smart things wealthy baby boomers do with money.

The content provided on Money.ca is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter. Advertisers are not responsible for the content of this site, including any editorials or reviews that may appear on this site. For complete and current information on any advertiser product, please visit their website.

• In the Media

BCAA Travel Insurance Reviews

Looking for the best Credit Card?

Find your credit card

Are you interested in?

• Home Insurance
• Car Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Business Insurance

Extremely hard to get reimbursed for expenses

I had issues getting reimbursed for a one night travel delay. My wife and I had separate health and delay policies, but I submitted all under my policy number because all expenses were paid by myself. I had to submit the same documents over and over because they said some were missing. The level of incompetence is mind-boggling! In the end, I figured out they were only missing the original Westjet booking, even though all the information was on the rebooking I had previously submitted. Long story short, they finally reimbursed for 1/2 of my taxis/meal/hotel cancelation expense. They said my wife had only purchased a medical policy. I provided her claim number and was ghosted. I started a new claim for her but had to step away a minute so pressed the "save draft" button. FATAL ERROR, it said she'd have to log into her email to restart the claim, but the email never arrived. I tried to log in through the application page again, but they want an "intent ID", as if anybody knows what that means. Now I'm locked out. The frustration simply isn't worth the few hundred dollars I'm due. Needless to say, I'll never purchase any insurance involving Global Excel again. A Global Failure! BCAA ought to be ashamed.

0 of 0 people found this review helpful. Did you?

Review topics

Good service.

I bought a 3-month plan from BCAA & they paid up all 3 of my claims, without any hiccups. The policy was expensive, but their service was good. Also, their trained Staff handled all my calls promptly & efficiently.

Secure and Certified

Your information privacy and security is very important to us. We use the same 256-bit encryption and data security levels as all major banks. Our practices are monitored and verified by VeriSign and Digicert.

Independent

InsurEye is not owned by any bank, insurance company, insurance brokerage or any other financial services institution. We collect, validate, and analyze insurance experiences of real consumers.

We aspire to equip you with insights, data and knowledge to help in making informed decisions around personal finance, insurance quotes, and other important matters. We are always open for your comments.

Suggested companies

Squareone.ca, snowbird advisor insurance.

BCAA   Reviews

In the Money & Insurance category

Visit this website

Company activity See all

Write a review

Reviews 3.3.

Most relevant

We are from Manitoba

We are from Manitoba, members of CAA. While in Cranbrook, our car battery died and we placed a call for a boost. They were here in under Ten minutes and Nigel from Yakk Towing was fantastic. His customer service was great, he has a great sense of humour… fixed us up in no time flat. Highly recommend! 👏

Date of experience : September 07, 2024

I had to sit on the side of Hwy 19 just…

I had to sit on the side of Hwy 19 just south of Campbell River when my 2001 Honda Civic decided to take a break(down). Unfortunately, there has been a serious accident earlier in the day involving several vehicles on the Gold River Hwy, which held up my tow for almost 7hrs. That was not my drivers fault, but he was very apologetic about my wait. He arrived, after giving me a heads up, and was not only pleasant but very professional. I was tired and frankly over sitting on the side of the Hwy for all those hours.... But Driver 116 John made my mood instantly better and lightened the atmosphere. John got me into Willow Point safely and with a smile. Good Job, John Coastline Towing Driver 116!!!!

Date of experience : September 04, 2024

The way BCAA travel insurance ignore…

The way BCAA travel insurance ignore their customers is unbelieveable. I bought a family multi-trip yearly policy. They refused to allow me to claim for flight delay, initially claiming that my policy does not cover for delay, then later another rep said it covers but I had to notify them in advance of the trip through a link that was never sent to me when I purchased the policy. I made a complain and they said will hopefully get back to me in 48 hours and after 30 days i heard nothing. I wrote to complain to ombudsperson and according to their website will respond in 5 business days. Again no response till now which is almost 10 business days. For such a big company to provide such bad client service, it is unbelievable to say the least.

Date of experience : August 29, 2024

Called for a tow at 2am exhausted

I called for a tow at 2 am completely done for the night and alyne got my call and was an absolute delight made an absolutely horrible situation calm cool and collective I hope more people deal with her it was a fantastic experience

Date of experience : September 06, 2024

IDP International driving permit applications

We applied for IDP International driving permits and received prompt and clear help. 4 days after sending in our completed forms, they wrote with file ref numbers and a direct telephone contact enabling us to finalise our applications. The licenses were sent to us that very same day and we received them 2 days later. We are in the Yukon and their is no local CAA office. So, BCAA was recommended to us. Fantastic, friendly, and pro active service from start to finish.

Date of experience : August 08, 2024

Brutal Service with a request for BCAA…

Brutal Service with a request for BCAA roadside service waited for four hours. Had to call back multiple times kept getting a BS answer. Oh they’ll be there in 5 to 15 minutes then called back. Oh, it’s gonna be another 45 minutes. Not sure what value there is at all for what you’re paying for BCAA will be cancelling all four of our families cards immediately

Date of experience : August 03, 2024

I called BCAA because my wife’s car…

I called BCAA because my wife’s car wouldn’t start - even turn over . The battery is almost 4 yrs old so assumed I needed a new battery . Louis came to my home within 1/2 hr. He performed test, boosted battery and gave me a full report on the health of my battery ( said it was good for at least another year, if not 2. He was professional, helpful, cheerful , and a pleasure to deal with ….and did not try to sell me a new battery .

Date of experience : August 07, 2024

7 hrs, and still no sign of my jump start

I am sitting outside Merritt BC in my RV, going on seven hours waiting for a jump start. No communication from BCAA or the local tow company they use, unless I call. Get same BS answer each time I call that they are '45 minutes to an hour away". Zero customer service. Brutal. Avoid at all costs unless you use them in a large urban centre.

Date of experience : July 06, 2024

was moving vehicle registration from…

was moving vehicle registration from alberta to bc and dreading it. but had my papers, inspection report, etc and headed in. alanna at the abbotsford office took such amazing care of me. over and above - exceptional customer service to get my vehicle registered and insured. there were some discrepancies in my alberta registration which required her to call in to ICBC and figure some things out. nothing about my reg was straightforward but she helped work thru each barrier. so grateful to her b/c i was already feeling under the weather. it did take a bit of time but she got everything done eventually. i am already a member and happy to support a company like this with employees like alanna. and car insurance is way cheaper in bc than alberta! go figure.

Date of experience : February 10, 2024

I cancelled my membership back in 2022

I cancelled my membership back in 2022. It should have been cancelled with my housing insurance . I moved to another continent. Had no idea that were still taking out payments until I got a notification from them today. Ridiculous!

Date of experience : May 03, 2024

Stealing money from my credit card!

Having left Canada 5 years ago, where I was insured with BCAA, I was surprised to find out that they had been taking a few payments from my credit card in recent months. I emailed asking for this issue to be looked into and - it was not. they took more money. Sketchy at best. I hope them seeing this review helps them hurry up and process my refund! Lesson; make sure you ask companies you no longer hold direct debits with, to remove your details from their records.

Date of experience : July 14, 2023

The underwriters for BCAA Travel…

The underwriters for BCAA Travel insurance is a company called GLOBAL EXCEL AVOID AT ALL COSTS #RIPPOFF SCAMMERS I called their 1800 number and got verbal approval to get treatment for high blood pressure while in Texas on Dec 1, 2023 and they keep requesting the same documents over and over. Supervisor won’t call you back and they “accidentally “ disconnect the call when you finally do get through. Biggest rip off company I’ve ever dealt with and nothing but a bunch of crooks. Nice move you guys You collected $500 a year for 3 years of travel insurance and then you scam us for $130? Are you kidding ? AVOID AT ALL COSTS BECAUSE THEY ARE A BUNCH OF CROOKS

Date of experience : December 01, 2023

My front car was totalled by a careless…

My front car was totalled by a careless driver who doesn’t know that you have to factor in the back end of the car when you turn a corner or their back end will crash your front end. They reported it to ICBC who told me it was all down to BCAA from here on. It is Tuesday 17 July. I tried to phone the claims department starting at 4:45 and after I selected English with the number one. Then all I got was a rapid busy tone. I tried this several times and couldn’t get through. I got through on the internet to a chat agent who confirmed there was a problem with the phone system and gave me a different number with the other numbers to follow on. She got in the Q so I did too. She reported the phone system issue. Then her office closed down. I was in the phone system from 4:45pm to 9pm. They would periodically announce a wait time of 70 minutes, then 67 minutes, then 45 minutes then unbelievably it would go back up to 70 minutes. The automated voice and music was unbearable after 4 hours so I had to call it a day. For BCAA to treat customers trying to effect a claim when they’re stressed out already is just plain rude and offensive. I regret doing the private portion of my car insurance with BCAA. Also when I renewed it and got the BCAA portion the agent showed me the screen. It said coverage at $2,800,000. He then said but it’s really $3m it just doesn’t say so. My document printed out with the $2.8m coverage instead of the $3m so that is a lie and inefficient. Can’t recommend them. Waiting 4 hours on the phone is shocking. Victoria BC is expanding with so much extra housing and condos. The traffic is already at a standstill and it’s doubtful that our services are going to be able to serve Victoria residents comfortably from now on. The government and council have officially ruined Victoria for all concerned.

Date of experience : July 16, 2024

AVOID BCAA MEDICAL TRAVEL INSURANCE...

November flights to New Zealand needed to be cancelled because of severe illness. Now more than three months later still no reimbursement for airfares. Apparently outsourced to an oxymoronic company called Global Excellence. DO NOT BUY MEDICAL TRAVEL INSURANCE FROM THIS COMPANY.

Date of experience : February 15, 2023

I experienced a flat tire on the…

I experienced a flat tire on the freeway in the thick of rush hour traffic. Called BCAA and from start to finish the customer service was excellent. Thanks for everything Joe!

Date of experience : February 08, 2024

Is this your company?

Claim your profile to access Trustpilot’s free business tools and connect with customers.

BCAA Travel Insurance for Canadians: Travel with Peace of Mind

• By rideoncanada

Canadians are known for their adventurous spirit and love of exploration. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach vacation, a thrilling backpacking trip, or a visit to family abroad, having the right travel insurance is crucial. Explore BCAA Travel Insurance, a trusted solution for Canadians seeking comprehensive protection for their journeys.

Why Travel Insurance Matters for Canadians:

Unexpected events can disrupt even the best-laid travel plans. From flight cancellations and medical emergencies to lost luggage and trip interruptions, travel insurance provides a financial safety net, ensuring you’re covered for unforeseen circumstances. Here’s why travel insurance is essential for Canadians:

• Medical Coverage: Medical expenses abroad can be astronomical. Travel Insurance offers emergency medical coverage, ensuring you receive necessary medical treatment without breaking the bank.
• Trip Cancellation & Interruption: Unexpected situations may force you to cancel or interrupt your trip. BCAA’s travel insurance helps you recoup prepaid, non-refundable trip costs if you need to cancel due to covered reasons like illness, injury, or weather events.
• Trip Delay: Flight delays can disrupt your itinerary and cause frustration. BCAA Travel Insurance can provide reimbursement for additional expenses incurred due to a covered trip delay.
• Baggage Loss or Damage: Lost luggage can be a major inconvenience. BCAA Travel Insurance offers coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged baggage, helping you replace essential items.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing you’re covered for unexpected events allows you to relax and enjoy your travels without constant worry.

Understanding BCAA Travel Insurance Options:

BCAA offers different travel insurance plans to cater to diverse travel needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options:

• Single Trip: This plan offers coverage for a single trip, ideal for those planning a one-time vacation.
• Annual Multi-Trip: This plan provides coverage for multiple trips throughout the year, suitable for frequent travelers. This plan often comes with additional benefits like lost passport coverage or trip interruption due to a medical condition of a close relative back home.

Features and Benefits:

BCAA Travel Insurance offers several features and benefits that make it a compelling choice for Canadians:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Plans include emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation/interruption, trip delay, baggage loss/damage, and more.
• Flexible Coverage Options: You can customize your plan by adding optional coverages like adventure activities, cancellation for any reason, or cruise travel protection.
• 24/7 Emergency Assistance: BCAA provides 24/7 emergency assistance to help you navigate any situation that arises during your trip.
• Competitive Rates: BCAA offers competitive rates on their travel insurance plans, ensuring you get the protection you need without breaking the bank.
• Canadian-Based Company: BCAA is a trusted Canadian company with a long-standing reputation for providing exceptional service.

Getting Travel Insurance Quote:

Getting a quote for BCAA’s Travel Insurance is quick and easy. Here are a few options:

• Online: Visit the BCAA website to access a quote calculator. Enter your trip details and BCAA membership information (if applicable) to receive a personalized quote.
• By Phone: Contact BCAA by phone to speak with a travel insurance specialist who can answer your questions and provide a quote.
• BCAA Branch: Visit your local BCAA branch and speak with a representative about BCAA Travel Insurance options and get a quote in person.

Advantages for Canadians:

It offers numerous advantages for Canadians, making it a compelling choice for travel protection:

• Tailored for Canadians: BCAA plans are designed with the needs of Canadian travelers in mind, including coverage for medical expenses incurred outside Canada.
• 24/7 Emergency Assistance in English & French: BCAA offers assistance in both English and French, ensuring clear communication and support during emergencies.
• Additional Benefits for Members: BCAA members may receive additional discounts or benefits on travel insurance plans.

Why Choose BCAA Travel Insurance?

BCAA Travel Insurance provides Canadians with a comprehensive and reliable solution for travel protection. By offering diverse coverage options, competitive rates, and 24/7 emergency assistance, BCAA empowers Canadians to travel with confidence, knowing they’re covered for unexpected events.

Additional Tips for Canadians:

• Read the Policy Wording Carefully: Before purchasing any travel insurance plan, including BCAA’s, carefully review the policy wording to understand what is and is not covered.
• Disclose Pre-Existing Medical Conditions: Be honest about any pre-existing medical conditions you or your traveling companions have. Failure to disclose pre-existing conditions could invalidate your travel insurance coverage.
• Consider Your Travel Activities: If you’re planning adventurous activities like skiing, white-water rafting, or skydiving, ensure your chosen BCAA travel insurance plan includes coverage for these activities. Some plans may require an optional add-on for adventure sports.
• Compare Plans from Different Providers: While BCAA offers a great travel insurance option, it’s always wise to compare plans from different providers to ensure you’re getting the best coverage and value for your needs.

Beyond Insurance: Travel Resources for Canadians:

Here are some additional resources for Canadians to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience:

• Government of Canada Travel Advice & Advisories: Stay informed on travel advisories and safety information for your destination country.
• Canadian Airports Authority: Find information about Canadian airports, including security procedures and travel tips.
• Nexus Program: Consider enrolling in the Nexus program for expedited border crossings between Canada and the United States.

Conclusion:

By understanding the importance of travel insurance, exploring the offerings of BCAA Travel Insurance, and utilizing the recommended resources, Canadian travelers can embark on their journeys with peace of mind. BCAA Travel Insurance provides a safety net, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories and enjoying your exploration of the world.

• rideoncanada
• June 21, 2024

Download Now

© RideON Canada, All rights reserved | 🗲 by coderef.co

We use cookies to provide you with the best possible experience. By using our website, you agree to the use of cookies.

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

• Travel Insurance
• Pacific Blue Cross Travel Insurance Review

The Forbes Advisor editorial team is independent and objective. To help support our reporting work, and to continue our ability to provide this content for free to our readers, we receive payment from the companies that advertise on the Forbes Advisor site. This comes from two main sources.

First , we provide paid placements to advertisers to present their offers. The payments we receive for those placements affects how and where advertisers’ offers appear on the site. This site does not include all companies or products available within the market.

Second , we also include links to advertisers’ offers in some of our articles. These “affiliate links” may generate income for our site when you click on them. The compensation we receive from advertisers does not influence the recommendations or advice our editorial team provides in our articles or otherwise impact any of the editorial content on Forbes Advisor.

While we work hard to provide accurate and up to date information that we think you will find relevant, Forbes Advisor does not and cannot guarantee that any information provided is complete and makes no representations or warranties in connection thereto, nor to the accuracy or applicability thereof.

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Insurance Review 2024

Updated: Feb 28, 2024, 7:04am

Pacific Blue Cross has a stellar reputation in B.C. as the number one ranked health benefits provider in the province. In addition to life, health and group insurance, Pacific Blue Cross offers comprehensive travel insurance with $10 million in medical coverage and an attractive pre-existing conditions benefit. While the premiums are more affordable than other insurers, some of the benefit limits are lower. In addition, you must be a resident of B.C. or the Yukon to purchase a travel plan.

• Customizable benefit options
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Free emergency medical coverage for kids
• Medical questionnaire is optional
• Some benefit limits lower than other insurers
• No electronic submission for claims
• Must be a resident of B.C. or the Yukon

Table of Contents

About pacific blue cross travel insurance, what travel insurance does pacific blue cross offer, pacific blue cross travel insurance plans, summary: plan comparison, pacific blue cross travel insurance cost, comparing pacific blue cross travel insurance with other insurers, optional add-ons for pacific blue cross travel insurance, does pacific blue cross travel insurance offer any discounts, does pacific blue cross travel insurance offer annual multi-trip plans, pacific blue cross travel insurance 24/7 travel assistance, does pacific blue cross travel insurance have cancel for any reason (cfar), does pacific blue cross travel insurance have interruption for any reason (ifar), pacific blue cross travel insurance and pre-existing medical conditions, pacific blue cross travel insurance exclusions, pacific blue cross travel insurance eligibility, how to file a claim with pacific blue cross travel insurance.

Based in Burnaby, B.C. the not-for-profit PBC Health Benefits Society (operating as Pacific Blue Cross) provides health, dental, life, disability and travel coverage for residents of B.C. and the Yukon. Pacific Blue Cross is British Columbia’s number one health benefits provider through group benefits and individual plans.

Pacific Blue Cross is a registered trademark of the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans (CABCP) and the registered trade name of PBC Health Benefits Society, an independent licensee of CABCP. Life and Property and Casualty insurance is sold through PacBlue Life Services Ltd., a licensed insurance agency and subsidiary of Pacific Blue Cross, and underwritten by various underwriters, depending on the coverage purchased.

Here are the key types of travel insurance coverage offered in Pacific Blue Cross travel insurance plans:

• Emergency medical insurance: If you fall ill or are injured on your trip, travel medical insurance can pay for emergency medical expenses, up to the coverage limits in your plan. These expenses can include doctor and hospital bills, medication and lab work.
• Trip cancellation insurance: If you cancel a trip for a reason listed in your travel policy, such as you or your travelling companion becoming ill, weather conditions causing a massive delay or you end up losing your job, trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you for prepaid, non-refundable costs.
• Travel interruption or delay insurance: Trip interruption insurance can pay for a last-minute flight home in an emergency and money that you lose if you have to return home earlier than expected, such as non-refundable activities and hotel stays. If your flight is delayed , your insurance can cover the cost of incidentals, such as meals or accommodations, after a specified period of time, usually six, 10 or 12 hours.
• Baggage insurance: Baggage travel insurance can compensate you up to your policy limits if your luggage is lost or stolen. It will reimburse the depreciated value of your suitcases and what you packed. If your checked bags are delayed, it can reimburse you for the cost of the necessities you’ll have to buy to tide you over.
• Travel accident insurance. This coverage offers compensation in the event of accidental death or catastrophic injury from an accident during your trip. Flight Accident Insurance covers injury while you’re on a commercial plane, during a connection or in an airport. Travel Accident Insurance covers death or dismemberment, including the loss of limbs or eyesight, while on your trip. This is also called Accidental Death and Dismemberment benefit.

Pacific Blue Cross allows you to customize the amount of coverage you need. For example, you could opt for the most comprehensive travel insurance protection by selecting the Emergency Medical Care Benefit and the All Inclusive Trip Protection Plan, or you could choose the Basic Trip Protection Plan alone if you’re mostly concerned about baggage and travel accidents.

The individual benefits are as follows:

Emergency Medical Care Benefit: If you’re worried about medical emergencies while travelling, this benefit offers the following coverage:

• Hospital accommodation in a semi-private or private room
• Hospital allowance for incidental expenses, such as TV rental, parking, telephone, etc., up to $100 per hospitalization
• Physician fees
• Private duty nursing
• Paramedical services, such as care from a physiotherapist, chiropractor, osteopath or podiatrist, up to $300 per profession
• Tests and diagnostics, including X-rays
• Prescription medication as part of emergency treatment
• The purchase or rental cost of crutches, canes or splints, and the rental cost of a wheelchair, orthopedic corset or other medical appliances
• Emergency dental due to injury, up to $2,000 per accident
• Emergency dental due to pain or disease, up to $500 per trip
• Ground or air ambulance transportation
• Repatriation for medical treatment
• Transportation for a bedside companion, plus subsistence allowance for meals, accommodation and childcare
• Return of vehicle due to illness or accident
• Baggage return if you are repatriated due to medical reasons
• Return of your remains in the event of death
• Subsistence allowance for meals and accommodation if your return is delayed due to a medical reason

The Medical Follow-up in Canada Benefit is included if you purchase the Emergency Medical Care Benefit. If you are repatriated due to a medical emergency, the following costs will be reimbursed if incurred within 15 days of your repatriation:

• The cost of a semi-private room in a hospital, rehabilitation centre or convalescent home, maximum $1,000
• The fees for home nursing care when medically required, up to $50/day, maximum 10 days
• The costs for the rental of crutches, standard walker, canes, trusses, orthopedic corset and oxygen, maximum $150
• The cost for transportation, including ambulance and/or taxi, in order to receive medical care, maximum $250

All Inclusive Trip Protection: This package option includes trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage, air flight accident and accidental death and dismemberment benefits.

• Trip cancellation with interruption: This reimburses you for insured travel expenses (such as hotels or prepaid excursions) if you have to cancel, interrupt, extend or modify your trip due to a covered reason either before your trip or after you have left home. This includes transportation expenses if you have to interrupt, modify or extend your trip, as well as a subsistence allowance for hotels and meals if your return home is delayed.
• Baggage: This provides compensation if your baggage is delayed, lost, stolen or damaged during your trip.
• Air flight accident: This offers coverage for the accidental loss of life or limb while travelling as a passenger on a plane, land or water conveyance, helicopter shuttle, or while waiting at the airport. This coverage also includes losses due to exposure after a forced landing.
• Accidental death or dismemberment: This coverage option offers reimbursement in the event you die, or lose the use of one or more limbs during a travel accident. The amount paid out depends on your age and the severity of the accident.

Deluxe Trip Protection: This package option includes trip interruption (that reimburses you for prepaid expenses if your trip gets unexpectedly interrupted once it’s begun), baggage, air flight accident and accidental death and dismemberment.

Basic Trip Protection: This package option includes baggage, air flight accident and accidental death and dismemberment.

We’ve highlighted the key benefits for each coverage option available for the single trip plan when travelling outside of Canada to help you identify your travel needs:

Emergency Medical Care Benefit:

Travel benefits:, trip cancellation & interruption benefit:, baggage benefit:.

The price of a Pacific Blue Cross travel insurance plan depends on factors such as the cost of your trip, your age, your health and the amount of coverage you choose.

Here are some examples of the cost for Pacific Blue Cross single trip plans for healthy travellers based in B.C.:

In addition, when you purchase emergency travel insurance for one or two parents, each dependent child who is 21 years of age or younger will receive free emergency medical coverage up to the $10 million policy limit.

Emergency medical: $5 million Cancel For Any Reason: Yes, 50% to 75% Baggage insurance (maximum): $1,500

Related: CAA Travel Insurance Review

Blue Cross (Ontario)

Emergency medical: $5 million Cancel For Any Reason: No Baggage insurance (maximum): $1,500

Related: Blue Cross (Ontario) Travel Insurance Review

Manulife Financial

Emergency medical: $10 million Cancel For Any Reason: No Baggage insurance (maximum): $1,000

Related: Manulife Financial CoverMe Travel Insurance Review

Pacific Blue Cross offers an optional Pre-Existing Condition Benefit for travellers who also purchase the Emergency Medical Care Benefit. This benefit gives you up to $10 million in medical coverage following an emergency due to a pre-existing condition that would otherwise be excluded from coverage. This benefit does not cover any expenses if the medical condition showed symptoms in the seven days before your departure.

This benefit must be purchased within 15 days of buying the emergency medical benefit and before your departure date if the insurer decides a detailed medical review is required.

A medical questionnaire is an option for travellers over age 61 with pre-existing conditions. The insurer notes, “You are not obligated to complete the questionnaire, however doing so gives you a definite advantage. In 80% of cases, the questionnaires result in coverage that may not otherwise be granted.” Your doctor needs to complete the questionnaire and forward it to Pacific Blue Cross. There the medical director will review your answers and “if your pre-existing condition is stable and does not present an increased risk, it will be covered and you will be able to leave on your trip with true peace of mind.”

You are not eligible for this benefit if any of the following conditions apply:

• You have been advised by your physician not to travel.
• You have a medical condition in a terminal phase.
• You have kidney failure that is being treated by dialysis.
• You have a lung condition being treated with oxygen or cortisone therapy.
• You have cancer with metastasis.

Here are some examples of the cost of the Pre-Existing Benefit add-on:

Pacific Blue Cross offers a 10% or more discount off your travel insurance premium if you also have a Pacific Blue Cross Extended Health Care and/or Dental plan.

Yes. You can buy multi-trip annual insurance if you travel more than once a year for multiple individual trips. Pacific Blue Cross offers emergency medical coverage and trip protection coverage for 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 or 180 days per trip. If you plan a trip longer than your selected coverage, you can add extra days or top-up your coverage.

Here’s how the prices between single trip and multi-trip insurance compare using the example of the Emergency Medical Care benefit:

Medi-Assist Travel Assistance (provided through CanAssistance) is offered free of charge with all Pacific Blue Cross travel insurance products and toll-free assistance is available 24/7, 365 days of the year. Depending on the coverage provided by your insurance policy, emergency support includes:

• Referral to an appropriate clinic or hospital
• Advance of funds to the hospital, if necessary
• Confirmation of the medical insurance coverage to avoid paying a substantial deposit
• Following your medical file and communicating with your family physician
• Coordinating repatriation to your home province if medically necessary
• Coordinating the safe return of dependent children if you (the parent) are hospitalized
• Making arrangements for a bedside companion if you are hospitalized for at least seven days
• Coordinating the return of your vehicle if you are unable to return it due to a covered accident or illness
• Transmission of urgent messages to your family or business partner(s)
• Coordination of claims
• Interpreter services for emergency calls
• Referral to legal counsel in the event of a serious accident
• Settlement of formalities in the event of a death
• Assistance in the event of loss or theft of identification documents
• Information regarding embassies and consulates
• Pre-travel information regarding visas and vaccines

If you, or someone acting on your behalf, does not call Medi-Assist within 24 hours of an emergency and before seeking treatment, your claim could be denied.

When calling Medi-Assist, you’ll need your government health plan number and your Pacific Blue Cross Travel Certificate number.

In general, Pacific Blue Cross will not pay medical expenses related to any medical condition that is not stable for a set period of time, either three or six months (depending on your age, coverage choices and medical conditions), before your coverage takes effect.

Pacific Blue Cross has a number of age- and condition-specific exclusions whereby medical expenses will not be paid, including:

For policyholders under age 61 or for policyholders age 61 to 75 travelling for 30 days or less with package insurance including trip cancellation and interruption:

• Consulted a physician, other than for a regular checkup
• Was hospitalized
• Was prescribed or received a new treatment
• Was prescribed or took a new medication
• Received a change in existing medication, including dosage or usage (with some exceptions)
• Any heart condition that you’ve taken nitroglycerin more than once in a seven-day period for the relief of chest pain
• Any pulmonary condition that you’ve been treated with home oxygen or corticoid therapy

For policyholders between age 61 and 75 with individual or annual insurance, or for policyholders age 61 to 75 travelling for 30 days or less with package insurance not including trip cancellation and interruption, or policyholders age 61 to 75 covered by package insurance for 31 days or more, or policyholders age 76 and above:

• Was prescribed or took a new medication for cardiovascular conditions, chronic obstructive lung conditions, neurological conditions, insulin-dependent diabetes, kidney failure or transplantation, gastrointestinal conditions or cancer or malignant tumours

There are a number of scenarios not covered by travel insurance and it’s critical to know what not to do before you make a claim. In addition to exclusions related to pre-existing conditions, the following are some of the most common situations not covered by medical travel insurance:

• Any state or condition for which you ignored the symptoms, did not follow medical advice or the recommended investigations, treatments, tests or procedures
• Pregnancy, and complications arising from pregnancy in the last eight weeks before your expected due date
• Any accident sustained while participating in a sport for pay or a sporting event where money prizes are awarded to the winners, any kind of motor vehicle competition or speed event (with exceptions), any dangerous or violent sport including (but not limited to) off-track snow sports, show jumping obstacles, grade 4 or 5 rock or mountain climbing, parachuting, gliding or hang-gliding, bungee jumping, canyoning, and any sport or activity with a high level of stress and risk involved
• Abuse of medication, alcohol or drugs, or driving a vehicle while intoxicated
• Any trip undertaken to receive medication attention
• Suicide, attempted suicide or any self-inflicted injury
• War, invasion, enemy acts, hostility between nations, civil war, rebellion, revolution, insurrection, military power or usurped power, or confiscation, nationalization, requisition or destruction of or damages to belongings due to any government or local authority
• Perpetration or attempt to perpetrate a criminal act
• Any condition resulting from a mental, nervous, psychological or psychiatric problem unless you are hospitalized due to that reason
• Any claim while in a chronic care hospital or ward, nursing home or health spa
• Any care or treatment other than that required for stabilization of the emergency medical condition
• Custodial care (assistance with basic personal care activities, such as bathing, dressing, etc.)
• Care or treatment for cosmetic purposes
• Care or treatment not covered by your government health plan
• Care or treatment provided by a podiatrist, acupuncturist, homeopath or naturopath
• Certain products, even when obtained by a prescription, including infant formula, dietary or food supplements, antacids, digestives, laxatives, antidiarrheals, decongestants and any other cold/flu medications, and all dermatological products
• Any additional medical treatment if you continue your trip as planned after a medical emergency
• Any expenses for an infectious disease or illness for which there is a travel advisory or health warning, unless you have been fully vaccinated against the infectious disease or the condition occurs in a dependent child under the age of 18 (with exceptions)
• Any expenses incurred in a region where there is an active “avoid all travel” advisory in effect by the Government of Canada

There are additional exclusions if you purchase trip cancellation and interruption coverage, baggage and/or travel accident coverage.

To be eligible for insurance with Pacific Blue Cross, the following must apply:

• You are a Canadian resident.
• You are covered under the government health plan of your province or territory for the entire duration of your trip.
• You have not been advised against travel by your physician.
• You have not been diagnosed with a terminal condition.
• You are not receiving palliative care or palliative care has not been recommended.

In addition, to purchase a Pacific Blue Cross travel plan, you must be a resident of B.C. or the Yukon.

You can file a claim online 24/7 by visiting the Pacific Blue Cross website where you can download your forms for emergency medical or trip cancellation and baggage claims. The website provides step-by-step instructions on what you need to do to submit a claim.

You will need to attach original receipts for the services or items rendered. The insurer notes that if the recipes or invoices are in another language, it’s your responsibility to translate these documents.

Pacific Blue Cross may request additional documentation, including:

• A medical certificate completed by a qualified physician providing a complete diagnosis
• Documentary evidence that a non-excluded event was the cause of your claim
• Original or electronic versions of unused transportation tickets, original invoices from the travel provider and/or official receipts for return transportation
• Receipts for land arrangements
• Proof showing the duration of a trip
• Proof of delay of checked baggage from the carrier along with receipts of purchases
• Proof of carrier delay, traffic accident or mechanical failure causing delay of return
• Death certificate
• List of lost or stolen baggage items

Pacific Blue Cross notes that digital signatures are not accepted and all completed claims forms must be mailed to the PBC Out Of Country Claims office or dropped off at the office in Burnaby, B.C.

Pacific Blue Cross will reimburse you for eligible expenses within 60 days of receiving all documentation to satisfy proof of claim.

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Insurance FAQs

Does pacific blue cross pay for medical costs upfront.

According to the travel insurance policy, in the event of an emergency, Medi-Assist will “[refer you] to an appropriate clinic or hospital and advance funds to the hospital if necessary.”

Does Pacific Blue Cross offer coverage extensions?

Yes. Your coverage is automatically extended for 24 hours starting on the final day of your trip due to a transportation delay. If you are hospitalized, your coverage is extended for the period of hospitalization and the 24-hour period after discharge. If your return home is delayed due to a medical emergency that started within 24 hours before your scheduled return date and required emergency treatment, your coverage is automatically extended for up to 72 hours.

You can also request an extension if you want to stay longer on your trip, provided you apply before the expiry date of your policy, you are still eligible for insurance and your health has not changed since your departure. Your request may be denied if you have a claim in progress or the Canadian government has a new travel advisory in effect or recommends travellers return home.

Does Pacific Blue Cross require a medical questionnaire?

Pacific Blue Cross makes the distinction between a statement of health and a medical questionnaire. A medical questionnaire is optional for travellers 61 and older with pre-existing conditions that might not otherwise be covered. Your doctor can complete the questionnaire, forward it to Pacific Blue Cross and if the medical director decides your health is stable, your pre-existing condition will be covered.

The statement of health determines what will be covered, what will be excluded and your travel insurance premium, which is calculated according to the risks inherent with age, your health and the trip length.

Does Pacific Blue Cross have any age restrictions?

There are no noted age restrictions beyond the age-specific exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

When does my coverage with Pacific Blue Cross begin?

In general, if you purchase cancellation coverage, it begins the day you buy your policy and ends the day when you make a claim or leave on your trip. Your emergency medical coverage and interruption coverage, if purchased, begins when you leave home. Your delay coverage begins once an insured risk prevents you from returning home as scheduled.

Can I get a refund with Pacific Blue Cross?

You can request a cancellation and full refund of your contract before the effective date of the contract (or the date the coverage begins) or during the 10 days following the date of purchase, unless:

• You have made or intend to make a claim.
• The contract is for a period of 10 days or less.
• The contract was purchased within 11 days before the trip and includes trip cancellation or interruption coverage.

If you return early from your trip and have not submitted or intend to submit a claim, or if no Medi-Assist case has been opened, you can request a partial refund of your premium. However, a refund of premium does not apply if:

• You are covered for a trip cancellation benefit.
• You are covered for an emergency return benefit.
• You are covered under an annual insurance contract.
• You are repatriated at the insurer’s expense.
• Your refundable premium is less than $20 after application of the $25 administration fee.

Does Pacific Blue Cross offer a free look period?

The Pacific Blue Cross travel insurance policy does not explicitly reference a free look or right to examine period, except to note that a request for a refund must be received during the 10 days following the date of purchase (with some exceptions). However, under the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada’s ( THIA ) Travel Insurance Bill of Rights and Responsibilities, travellers have the right to a no obligation purchase, whereby travel insurance providers will provide a minimum 10-day free review of the policy.

Fiona Campbell is a Staff Writer for Forbes Advisor Canada. She started her career on Bay Street, but followed her love for research, writing and a good story into journalism. She is the former editor of Bankrate Canada, and has over 20 years of experience writing for various publications, including the Globe and Mail, Financial Post Business, Advisor’s Edge, Mydoh.ca and more.

Courtney Reilly-Larke is the deputy editor of Forbes Advisor Canada. Previously, she was the associate editor of personal finance at MoneySense. She was also managing editor of Best Health Magazine and has contributed to publications such as Cottage Life and Blog TO. She currently lives in Toronto.

• World Nomads Travel Insurance
• CAA Travel Insurance
• BCAA Travel Insurance Review
• TuGo Travel Insurance Review
• Goose Travel Insurance Review
• Travel Guard Travel Insurance Review
• Johnson MEDOC Travel Insurance
• Blue Cross Travel Insurance
• GMS Travel Insurance Review
• Medipac Travel Insurance Review
• Manulife Financial CoverMe Travel Insurance
• RBC Insurance Travel Insurance
• TD Bank Travel Insurance
• Tour+Med Travel Insurance Review
• Travelance Travel Insurance
• TD Insurance Travel Insurance Review
• Allianz Global Assistance Travel Insurance
• BMO Travel Insurance Review
• Desjardins Travel Insurance Review

Do I Need Travel Insurance When Travelling Within Canada?

• How To Get Pre-Existing Conditions Covered By Travel Insurance

What’s the Purpose of an ETIAS Travel Authorization?

• Should You Buy Travel Insurance And Is It Worth It?
• How To Travel To The U.S. From Canada
• Credit Card Travel Insurance Vs. Separate Travel Insurance
• Travel Insurance For Trips To Europe

Do Canadian Travellers Need Schengen Visa Insurance?

• Guide To Pregnancy And Travel Insurance
• Why Travel Medical Insurance Is Essential
• 5 Top Tips For Handling Flight Cancellations Like A Pro
• What Does Travel Delay Insurance Cover?
• How To Get Reimbursement For A Travel Insurance Claim
• How Travel Insurance Works For Baggage
• Trip Cancellation Travel Insurance

$10 ETIAS Travel Pass For Europe Visits Pushed To 2025

• Top 10 Travel Insurance Tips For 2023
• Travel Insurance For U.K. Trips
• What Travel Insurance Does Not Cover
• How To Buy Travel Insurance For Cruises

More from  

Bcaa travel insurance review 2024, cumis travel insurance review 2024.

How can we help you?

How does bcaa travel insurance work if i already have coverage with my credit card or health care plan, bcaa travel insurance works in coordination with other benefits you have from another insurer. you can also purchase a "top up" plan if you are looking to extend the amount of days you have covered from another plan. feb 10, 2023 • knowledge.

Both credit card and health care plan policies may not cover all your travel needs or have specific stipulations. For example, some credit cards require that you pay for the full cost of your trip with the card. They may also penalize you if you don’t call the claims company right after an emergency or before you visit the hospital. Additionally, if you decide to extend your trip, some credit card plans won’t allow a mid-trip extension, which BCAA can take care of, as long as you’re eligible.

You also want to be sure your credit card plan comes with medical coverage, not just travel accident insurance. Accident insurance typically provides a lump sum payout for bodily injury or death, whereas travel emergency medical insurance covers you for hospital visits and other emergency treatments as a result of sickness or injury.

Was this article helpful?

Related articles.

• How can I update my credit card?
• I'm waiting for my government health care coverage to start, am I eligible for BCAA Travel Insurance?
• Can I buy a new BCAA Travel Emergency Medical Insurance Policy if I’ve already left on my trip?
• I'm pregnant, what coverage do I have with BCAA Travel Insurance?
• What are my travel insurance coverage options?

Trending Articles

• Do BCAA Members get discounts on car rentals and hotel bookings?
• How can I request Roadside Assistance?
• Can I get passport photos at BCAA?
• How can I get an International Driving Permit?
• What is covered in BCAA Optional Car Insurance Rental Vehicle Coverage?

FIND A BCAA LOCATION

• SERVICE LOCATIONS
• AUTO SERVICE CENTRES

BCAA acknowledges that we operate and support Members and customers on traditional and contemporary territories of First Nations across what is known today as BC.BCAA is headquartered on the lands of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh speaking peoples, known today as the City of Burnaby.

BCAA (The British Columbia Automobile Association) is a member of the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) and the American Automobile Association (AAA), serving Members in British Columbia and the Yukon. Call 1-888-268-2222

Terms | Privacy © 2022 BCAA

Travel Insurance Quick Estimate

Answer just a few questions, and we can provide you with an estimate of how much your travel insurance policy could cost you. After that, you'll have a chance to add the details needed to purchase the plan.

1. What is your age or the age of the oldest traveller?

2. who needs coverage.

3. How many trips do you expect to take in the next 12 months?

4. Where will you be travelling?

5. What are the dates of your trip?

Due to the age you entered, we require completion of a medical health questionnaire. please proceed to the full quote process..