Moving to Canada? Or have friends or family who are? Canada’s known for its great education system and universal health care…not to mention stunning landscapes and diverse population. All in all, we think it’s a great place to visit and an even better one to call home! But did you know that non-residents won’t be covered by provincial health care if they experience an accident or medical emergency? Here’s what you need to know about provincial health coverage for Canadian immigrants.
Understanding provincial health care coverage in your province of choice
If you’re looking for detailed health care information about the province you’re moving to, the Government of Canada’s website is a great place to start. Health care is managed provincially and they’ve got a comprehensive list of links to all provincial government health care sites. They’ve also got tips for finding a place to live, planning your finances, adjusting to life in Canada and more.
How to apply for public health insurance
Register as soon as you get to Canada. This way you won’t be unprotected for longer than necessary. You can find enrollment forms on your province’s website or at doctors’ offices, hospitals, pharmacies and immigrant organizations. To apply, you’ll need documents that provide identification and confirmation of your permanent resident status. Some provinces (BC, New Brunswick, Ontario and Quebec) have a 3-month waiting period for coverage.
Waiting for coverage
If you’re a Canadian immigrant waiting for your provincial health coverage to kick in, you’ll want to get private insurance to cover you and your family’s health care needs.
Learn about visitors to Canada insurance with a provider in the province you’re moving to. It’s suitable for both visitors and newcomers and will protect you if you get sick or injured.
Once you’ve become a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for public health insurance and get a health card. Then you won’t have to pay for most of your medical care, since it’ll be covered by taxes. You’ll have to show your card when you go to a hospital or clinic for medical care. Remember, medical plans do vary by province, so learn about what yours covers to avoid surprises.
You’ll need to show your health card when you go for medical care.
If you experience an emergency before you get your health card, all provinces will provide free emergency medical services. Just remember that restrictions may apply, depending on your immigration status.
Cost of health care in Canada
You may have heard all about Canada’s free health care. However, although Canadians don’t pay directly for health care services, they pay through government taxes (except in BC, where there’s a monthly premium). Coverage varies from province to province, so if you’re travelling within Canada it’s a good idea to ask about a travel within Canada plan.
What is and isn’t covered by provincial health care
Getting to know the doctor at the neighbourhood clinic.
As comprehensive as Canada’s provincial coverage is, keep in mind that it won’t cover everything. Most basic care is covered; this includes primary care physicians (the doctors you go to first with your ailments), specialists and hospital services. What’s not covered varies by province, but usually includes:
Dental services
Eye care
Cosmetic surgery
Some elective surgeries
Although pharmaceutical benefits aren’t available to everyone, they’re covered for the elderly, people with disabilities or those who earn a low-income.
For a complete breakdown of who’s eligible and what’s covered, the Health Canada website answers your frequently asked questions.
Have more questions? Ask below or tweet us at @tugoinsurance!
All avid bikers will agree – nothing beats the thrill of the open road and the exhilaration of riding a two-wheeler. But while the element of danger makes it fun, it also leaves the rider vulnerable to many uncertainties on the road. Ardent motorcyclists, Mark and Lori faced a medical emergency in 2014 during their riding trip in Powell, Wyoming. They accidentally hit a deer and got severely injured in the process. Luckily they had travel insurance and after weeks of treatment, they’ve now recovered completely, bought a new motorbike and are planning more motorcycling vacations together. Nothing can stop this cool motor biking couple! Mark and Lori agreed to share their story, to help fellow motor cyclists and travellers facing a similar situation. Here’s an account of their motorcycle accident and the role Claims at TuGo played to get them home safe.
A motor vehicle accident lands Mark and Lori in hospital
When Mark and Lori hit that deer, Lori faced a thumb fracture and was rushed to the nearest hospital for a minor surgery. Mark on the other hand, sustained more serious injuries and suffered from broken ribs and a pneumothorax. He was immediately taken to an ICU in Montana for further treatment.
Mark Rovang next to the Yellowstone National Park sign in Wyoming with his motorcycle in the foreground.
As Mark’s condition stabilized, they thought they would be transferred to a hospital close to home in Alberta soon. But complications related to his chest tube and pulmonary contusion prolonged their hospital stay in Montana by a few more days. Mark was finally transferred to a hospital in Hinton, Alberta via air ambulance and was able to recover completely in the care of his provincial health services.
How the TuGo team helped during a critical time
TuGo’s customer service and claims team helped Lori with all aspects of the claim once she called in to inform us about the accident. We advised her to contact the auto insurance company as a primary insurer and co-ordinated with a range of service providers such as nurses and doctors from the US and Canada, social workers, and medical evacuation and air ambulance professionals, to help Mike and Lori get the best care and service possible. TuGo also worked with their auto insurers to get the best possible outcome for their claim.
Mike and Lori talk about their experience with TuGo
Both Mark and Lori shared some kind words with TuGo team members who helped them with their auto and travel claims. Here’s their testimonial and review in their own words:
Mark and Lori on a bike trip to the Washington Coast.
“Lori and I cannot thank you folks enough for all the hard work that you did on our behalf after our motorcycle accident in September 2014. Your timely communications, actions and dedication are the very definition of professionalism and we both feel very fortunate to have had the both of you looking out for our best interests. Our accident was trauma enough without adding the additional stress of having to handle the documentation and correspondence that goes along with the medical bills and payment. It would have been overwhelming to say the least. Both Lori and I feel that it is important that the people that you work for, or report to, know of the incredible level of service that you folks have extended to us and recognize you for it. “
~ Mark and Lori Rovang
We know how scary a medical emergency away from home can be and were extremely glad to provide Mark and Lori with the care and guidance during such a difficult time. We want to thank them for letting us share their story and also want to give a big thumbs up to our Claims and Customer Service team for taking such good care of them. Watch a similar TuGo travel insurance review by Bridget Milsom who suffered a mountaineering accident in Nepal.
Preparing for a medical emergency away from home
If you’re an avid biker like Mark and Lori, remember to purchase travel medical and auto insurance. Your auto coverage may have limits or restrictions that won’t cover all the expenses when a serious accident occurs. Adding coverage will ensure that you and your travel companion are covered and taken care of in case of any kind of medical emergency, especially when travelling out of your province.
Our hearts go out to those affected by the Brussels bombings. Since Tuesday morning’s subway and airport blasts, the tragedy has been top-of-mind for us here at TuGo.
If you or your loved ones have been injured or affected by the bombings or are planning a trip to Brussels, you’re likely wondering how your travel insurance protects you. We provide some advice below.
If you’ve been injured in the attack
Contact local emergency services immediately to get medical attention. If you’ve got a TuGo Travel Insurance plan and need support, call our worldwide collect emergency number at 604-278-4108. We’ll coordinate medical care and help you get in touch with the Canadian Embassy or Consulate, if needed.
If you’re planning a trip to Brussels — how your TuGo® Policy covers you
You may be wondering if you should still go. You may also be wondering whether your Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Plan would cover the cost of your trip if you decided not to.
As per our policy, coverage is available when the Canadian government has issued an advisory that recommends travellers “Avoid all travel” or “Avoid non-essential travel” on the contracted dates to the contracted destination. The advisory must be issued after you bought your policy and booked your trip.
However, in response to this tragedy, TuGo has made an exception and will allow Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption coverage.
You can submit claims for travel that was scheduled to depart from, to or through Brussels between March 22 and March 28, 2016.
You must have booked your trip and bought your policy by March 21.
If you want to change your travel plans
If you’re making changes to your travel plans, you should contact your airline providers; many are waiving change fees and offering refunds.
From today until Wednesday, April 27, major German airports will be affected by the Verdi trade union strike. All intercontinental flights to and from Munich will be cancelled as well as many international flights. Düsseldorf, Cologne and Frankfurt airports will also be affected.
If you’re planning to travel through any of these airports, you can expect cancellations, disruptions and delays for flights impacted by the strike, which will end later on Wednesday.
There may be some disruption tomorrow due to German airports strike action, please check with airline before travel https://t.co/37fFTWoJ2O — London City Airport (@LondonCityAir) April 26, 2016
Does TuGo Travel Insurance cover airport strikes?
Although our Traveller Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption plan covers some “Delays and schedule changes of the airline”, schedule changes due to a strike or labour disruption are not covered. Please refer to your policy wording for more detailed information.
Have questions?
Feel free to give us a call at 1-855-929-8846 or ask below.
When I was younger, I used to hop across the border without a care in the world. Day trips to the US, weekends in Las Vegas, and even an expedition to Europe. I always made sure I packed everything I could possibly need…except for travel insurance. After all, I was young and healthy, and didn’t need it, right? Nope!
When I came down with a stomach bug in Las Vegas, I found out that even going to urgent care would cost me all of my spending money for the rest of the trip. Accidents and sickness can happen to anyone, and since joining TuGo, I’ve learned that you need to be covered for medical emergencies, no matter how few candles are on your cake.
1. Travel is expensive and your investment needs to be protected
Even with discounts, packages, and deals, travel can be expensive. My last trip to England took more than a year to save up for, even though I travelled frugally. There were definitely no luxury hotels or business-class tickets on my itinerary! Since travel usually requires careful budgeting and planning, especially when travelling to multiple destinations, it’s a good idea to do everything you can to ensure that your trip goes as smoothly as possible, and budgeting the cost of coverage into your trip can help.
Young travellers are often on a budget and need to protect their trip expenses.
Delays, flight cancellations, and even an unexpected illness or death in the family can happen to anyone. Trip cancellation and interruption can definitely help you if you need to cancel your entire trip, or if you need come home early.
2. Your provincial health plan doesn’t fully cover you out-of-province.
As Canadians, we’re fortunate to have medical coverage under provincial health plans. However, if you get sick or injured while travelling outside of Canada, your provincial health care coverage will only pay for less than 10% of the total cost. This means that in case of a doctor’s visit or hospitalization, your out of pocket expenses can add up fast.
Even if you’re only travelling to a different province, your provincial health plan may not cover all of your expenses. Things like ambulance costs, prescription medications, and physiotherapy aren’t covered by your provincial plan, which is why it’s a good idea to have stay covered, even for trips outside of your home province.
3. Health care costs can be a financial strain
The biggest shock of my TuGo career came when I found out just how much health care can cost, especially when travelling to the US. Even something like a broken bone can quickly amount to thousands of dollars as up-front payments. If you’re wondering whether or not the cost of travel insurance is worth factoring into your trip budget, here’s a real-life example of a medical claim:
14-year-old Tomas travelled to Mexico for spring break. After a few days, he started having severe abdominal pain, and saw the hotel doctor. He was diagnosed with appendicitis, sent to hospital via ambulance, and stayed in the hospital for two days before being released with various prescriptions.
Hotel doctor fees: $950.50
Ambulance fees: $1,200.00
Hospital fees: $22,530.47
Doctors’ fees: $7,165.00
Prescriptions: $47.11
Total cost of the claim: $31,893.08
His provincial health plan covered just $330.16, which means that TuGo paid $31,562.92.
4. Baggage mishaps can also happen
For me, one of the most nerve-wracking parts of air travel isn’t the takeoff or turbulence, it’s standing by the baggage carousel, anxiously awaiting the arrival of my bag. Though it’s a good idea not to take anything irreplaceable on vacation, baggage insurance can help you replace your things if your luggage is lost, stolen, delayed or damaged.
Losing your luggage can be a nightmare when travelling internationally.
5. Health care in Canada isn’t free for visitors or inbound students
It’s a common myth that health care is free in Canada for everyone, since residents are covered under a provincial health plan. But if you’re a visitor to Canada, or a student studying here, you won’t be covered under a provincial health plan, which means that you’re financially responsible for any medical emergencies or accidents that might happen.
To find out more about what you should look for in your health coverage when visiting Canada, read our answers to your most frequently asked questions.
Nikki is an Administrative Assistant at TuGo. When not hiking some of Vancouver’s beautiful trails or tackling another interminable knitting project, she can be found tapping on a keyboard or planning her next travel adventure.
The countdown to Rio 2016 has officially begun and it’s definitely an exciting time for travellers headed to Brazil for the summer Olympics. Rio de Janeiro is a beautiful city and a captivating mix of beaches, mountains, carnivals and nightlife. Going by the exchange rate, it’s also one of the value destinations for Canadians looking to travel internationally on a low loonie. What’s more is if you’re a Canadian passport holder; you’re even exempt from the tourist visa requirement between June 1 and September 18, 2016, for a stay up to 90 days.
But while travellers are excited about their trip to the summer Olympics, there are also concerns about the safety in Rio de Janeiro due to reports about Zika and the increasing crime rate in the city. Wondering if it’s safe to travel to Rio for the Olympics? Here are a few things you need to know:
For other travellers, experts recommend to take extra precautions and regularly check for updates or travel advisories related to Zika before leaving.
If you’ve already booked your trip to the Rio Olympics, don’t let Zika or other reports about Rio ruin your trip. Stay informed and prepared about the precautions you need to take to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are our top 5 safety tips for travel to Rio de Janeiro.
Get your vaccinations for Brazil
If you’re travelling soon, now is a good time to schedule a vaccination appointment with your doctor or medical clinic. Apart from routine vaccines for flu and chicken pox, check in with your health care provider about vaccines needed for hepatitis A,B, measles, yellow fever and rabies. If you’re travelling with children, check if any vaccines need to be scheduled outside of the regular routine.
Currently, there is a shortage of yellow fever vaccine in Canada, so travellers will need to contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre to get the specific vaccine. For extra precaution, carry a copy of your and your family’s immunization records with you.
Prevent mosquito bites
Zika is caused by the bite of an infected mosquito; therefore it’s very important to take every possible precaution against mosquito bites.
While it may be tempting to wear shorts on a beach in Rio, wear long pants and sleeves as much as possible.
Use an insect repellent on exposed skin. Look for active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, OLEm or PMD. Remember to follow instructions on the label and apply sunscreen first, when both are used together.
Avoid areas with stagnant water, both indoors and outdoors.
Insist on air-conditioned rooms or a mosquito net at your accommodation in Rio.
Follow these four basic steps to protect yourself and your family from Zika
Watch out for petty crime in Rio de Janeiro
Crime in Rio de Janeiro ranges from pickpocketing and purse or bag snatching to mass mob or flash mob robberies on Rio’s beaches and crowded tourist areas. While it’s easy to get anxious about travelling around the city, there are a few things you can do to travel more confidently :
Avoid showing signs that you might be carrying money by wearing minimal clothes, jewellery and handbags.
Consider keeping your high-end phones at home and carry a cheap back-up version for practical use. Also try and keep expensive gadgets such as cameras and laptops inside your hand bag when walking around the city.
Try not to travel alone and avoid walking on isolated streets or beaches, especially at night.
Carry small amounts of cash (only enough for a day) and keep the rest of it along with other valuable documents in the hotel safe. If you’re withdrawing cash, try to use machines in secured zones like shopping centres as opposed to ATMs on the streets.
Credit card fraud is also common in Rio. Think about carrying multiple prepaid cards instead of your regular credit or debit cards.
Plan your transport within the city
Local transport within Rio de Janeiro ranges from public options like the metro and city bus to premium ones like taxis, vans and executive buses, also known as Frescão. While car rentals are easily available, driving around is usually painful due to crowded, chaotic streets and relaxed driving regulations in the city.
Getting around Rio de Janeiro is easy with a lot of local transport options
Transport in Rio de Janeiro is clean and safe, but also very irregular. Follow these transport tips for getting around in Rio:
Pre-book your airport transfer via the hotel. This will save you the time and effort of speaking and bargaining with private taxi owners as soon as you land.
You can also access your Uber app in Rio for reliable and cashless ride options.
If you do decide to use public transportation, visit the Rio de Janeiro municipal government’s website, Cidade Olimpica for detailed fare information, timetables and competition venues. The government has also partnered with Moovit (just like Google Maps) to track your route on the local map.
Don’t use public transportation during late evenings or at night. Instead, rely on taxis or hotel pick-ups for safety.
Travel Insurance for the Rio Olympics
Before you hop on the plane to cheer for your favourite team/athlete at Rio 2016, don’t forget to purchase comprehensive travel insurance coverage or check the details of existing coverage.
Planning a bucket list adventure in Rio de Janeiro? Make sure you have the right travel insurance for it.
Here are some things you should look for to ensure adequate travel insurance coverage in Rio de Janeiro:
Get luggage insurance that covers loss and theft of your belongings and cash/currency.
Look for medical coverage that includes hospital confinement and treatment including Dr.’s services, ambulance services, x-rays and other diagnostic laboratory tests, prescription drugs, emergency dental services, and emergency air transportation for which you must be pre-approved.
If you plan to participate in adventure sports such as paragliding, surfing, parasailing, snorkeling or scuba in Rio, look for travel insurance that will cover.
Have you travelled to Rio de Janeiro or are you prepping to go there for the summer Olympics? Share your own safety tips with us in the comments section.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this weekend’s failed military coup in Turkey, which reveals more instability in a country that has seen repeated terrorist attacks in the past year. Since Friday night’s violent military coup attempt to overthrow the Turkish government, the conditions in Turkey have been top-of-mind for everyone, including us here at TuGo.
If you’re planning to interrupt your trip and return to your home in Canada, or you’re thinking of cancelling your trip to Turkey, you’re likely wondering how your travel insurance protects you. Here’s TuGo’s advice:
Cancelling your trip to Turkey? See how your TuGo® policy covers you
If you’re travelling to Turkey, you may be wondering whether it’s safe to move forward with your travel plans. You may also be wondering whether your travel insurance – particularly your Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption plan, would cover the cost of your trip if you decided not to go.
TuGo’s Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption plan provides coverage for cancelling your trip if an official travel advisory is issued by the Canadian government after you bought your policy and booked your trip. In this case, the travel advisory for Turkey was announced by the federal government on Friday, July 15, advising Canadians to “avoid all travel”, which was then updated to “avoid non-essential travel”. If you booked your trip and purchased your policy before July 15, you’re eligible for trip cancellation coverage.
If you want to change your travel plans to Turkey
As a result of the military coup, some flights have been cancelled or diverted. If you’re making changes to your travel plans, contact your airline providers or booking agents to check the status of flights. Many airlines are also waiving change fees and offering refunds.
If you’re already in Turkey
Stay indoors, avoid large crowds and take extra care in public places – particularly resort areas and those visited by foreigners. If you’re injured, contact local emergency services immediately to get medical attention.
If you have a TuGo Travel Insurance plan and need support, call our worldwide collect emergency number at 604-278-4108. We’ll coordinate medical care and help you get in touch with the Canadian Embassy or Consulate, if needed. Your Travel Medical or Trip Interruption plan may cover your injuries and pay for your return home.
If you’re trying to leave Turkey, contact your airline or travel agent to find alternate routes or airports to get you to your final destination.
To keep up-to-date on travel advisories for Turkey and other countries, check out the Government of Canada’s website. Have questions related to this event? Leave a comment for us below.
Whether you long for liveaboard diving or you’re a casual scuba enthusiast, exploring the world’s oceans can give you a brand new perspective on your destination. However, adding any adventurous travel activities or extreme sports to your itinerary, including scuba, ups the risk of experiencing a medical emergency, so you’ll want to be prepared. Before you dive into your next scuba adventure, whether it’s within Canada or abroad, get a comprehensive travel insurance plan to protect you, just in case.
All travel insurance policies have exclusions, so you’ll want to research your options and be sure scuba’s covered before you buy. TuGo® Travel Insurance now covers all types of scuba enthusiasts, from uncertified newbies to certified divers, and professionals diving at different depths.
We know travel insurance can be confusing. So to make things easier, we’ve answered a few of your frequently asked scuba diving travel insurance questions, below.
Getting ready for a day of diving. An experienced guide or instructor, well maintained dive gear and travel insurance are essential for a safe and successful scuba vacation.
Q. Why do I need scuba diving travel insurance?
Although scuba diving’s very popular, it’s still an extreme sport and comes with health risks. If you were to experience a medical emergency while diving, you’d want to be covered. Medical treatment, like a stint in a hyperbaric chamber or air evacuation (in more extreme cases) is expensive when you’re away from home; and your provincial health care won’t cover more than 10%. Travel insurance makes sure you get the appropriate care where and when you need it and protects your financial investment.
Divers explore the ocean floor, deep below the surface.
Q. Will I be covered if I’m not a certified diver?
A. If you’re uncertified and want to try scuba diving on your next trip, TuGo will cover you if you add our Extreme Sports Coverage on to your Emergency Medical Insurance. It covers scuba divers who aren’t certified by an internationally recognized and accepted program.
Q. Do I need to buy additional coverage if I’m a certified scuba diver?
A. No, certified scuba divers don’t need additional scuba coverage for dives under 30 metres. With our Emergency Medical Travel Insurance, you’ll be covered for dives under 30 metres and for any injury or sickness while scuba diving as long as you’re certified by an internationally recognized program such as PADI or NAUI. For any other certifications, you’ll have to verify first whether your program meets the criteria.
Colourful coral adorns a reef in Egypt’s red sea, an internationally recognized diving mecca.
Q. What if I’m certified and travelling for a scuba instructor training course?
If you’re PADI/NAUI certified and travelling to take a training course to become a scuba instructor, our Emergency Medical Insurance plan will cover you as a professional diver. However, if you finish your instructor training course successfully and are diving over 30 metres, you’ll want to add our Extreme Sports Coverage to your Emergency Medical Insurance.
Q. I’m a visitor to Canada, can I still be covered for scuba diving?
Yes, if you’re a certified diver, our Visitor to Canada Emergency Medical plan will do the trick! If you’re not certified, or diving over 30 metres, you’ll need to add the Extreme Sports Coverage to your plan. This will provide you with coverage up to the sum insured amount you chose for the the Visitor to Canada Emergency Medical plan.
We hope we’ve answered a few of your pressing scuba diving travel insurance questions. But if you have more, feel free to ask below!
The uncertainty of travel is definitely something that sparks our wanderlust and makes it exciting. But recent terrorist attacks and political events have given a new meaning to travelling uncertainty, and have caused concerns, confusion and fear, even among the most seasoned travellers.
It’s a sad reality, but acts of terrorism continue to be seen across the globe, from the airport bombing in Brussels to the mass killings in Nice, and attempted military coup in Turkey. Along with these attacks, we’re also hearing about major health scares including the Zika virus and how it impacts pregnant women; and weather alerts like the recent Tropical Storm Earl in the Caribbean seem to be increasing too.
In light of these events, we need to be more alert than ever, and travel advisories issued by the Canadian Government can help us determine the risk for each destination. Unsure of how unforeseen events can affect your travel plans? Read on to learn more about Canadian travel advisories, how they impact your travel insurance coverage and how you can use them to protect yourself if something goes awry.
What’s a travel advisory and why is it important?
The Government of Canada issues travel advisories to provide Canadian travellers with official information and advice (country-wide and region-specific) on situations that may affect their safety and well-being abroad. They cover specific events that could impact your travel plans, such as:
Terrorist threats
Civil unrest or political instability, including riots or protests
War or military coups
Natural disasters like earthquakes, typhoons, hurricanes or tsunamis
Health emergencies due to diseases including Zika, Ebola, and Chikungunya
Advice and safety precautions provided by the Canadian Government help you analyze the risk of travelling to your planned destination, so you’re better prepared for your trip.
Risk levels of a travel advisory
Below are the risk levels, as described by the Government of Canada, that you’ll want to take note of:
The two highest risk levels “avoid non-essential travel” and “avoid all travel” can have implications on your travel insurance coverage, and should be taken more seriously—they suggest major concerns for Canadians.
How travel warnings and advisories affect your insurance coverage
While interpreting travel advisories can be confusing, determining what your travel insurance covers can be even more intimidating. Should I stay? Should I cancel my trip? What benefits should I look for in my insurance plan?
TuGo® Travel insurance may cover unforeseen circumstances once an official travel advisory has been issued. We’ve compiled a few scenarios to help you better understand how travel advisories impact your coverage before you leave or while travelling abroad:
With looming threats of terrorism in Europe, be sure to protect yourself with adequate travel insurance coverage before your departure.
Emergency Medical Insurance
While sightseeing around the Eiffel Tower, Ranvir is injured in a terrorist attack. Since he bought Emergency Medical Insurance before he left, his policy will cover his medical costs as long as there was no travel advisory in place when he left Canada, and he wasn’t participating in or voluntarily exposing himself to the attack.
Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption
Sally and Peter have booked their trip to Turkey and have bought Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption coverage with their Emergency Medical Insurance. Two days before they’re set to leave, a terrorist attack takes place in Turkey, and the Canadian government issues an official travel advisory to “avoid all travel”. The advisory is still in place on their departure date, so their coverage will cover the cost of cancelling their trip.
Trip Interruption
Leila is travelling alone in Brussels, and unfortunately, there is a terrorist attack while she’s there. She still has a week left, but the Canadian government issues an official travel advisory to “avoid non-essential travel” to Belgium. Leila doesn’t feel safe, and wants to come home early. As long as she bought Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance (or even just Trip Interruption Insurance) before her departure, and there was no travel advisory in place when she left Canada, she can return home early while the travel advisory’s still in place. Her travel insurance will cover the cost of her trip home.
With the never-ending list of travel planning to-dos in addition to the rise of terrorism events and health alerts, travel anxiety can happen to anyone. While no one can predict the future, there are some things you can do to be more informed and proactive. Use these travel safety tips to become better prepared for unforeseen circumstances:
Keep tabs on travel advisories
Refer to the travel advisories page on the government site, or download the Government of Canada’s Travel Smart App for up-to-date travel advice and information on your smartphone. The app has information for 200+ destinations and includes advisories, health updates and even emergency contact numbers.
Stay informed before and during your trip with the Government of Canada’s Travel Smart App
Check destination-specific travel warnings before booking your trip and a few days before leaving. To see how the latest advisories impact your TuGo Travel Insurance policy, take a look at our Canadian Travel Advisories section.
Set Google alerts for your destination
To make sure you don’t miss any updates, it’s best to set Google Alerts for your next destination so you’re informed of any important political events or natural disasters leading up to your departure and during your trip. You can use keywords like ‘destination + travel’ or ‘Canadian travel advisory’ for a specific location.
Print a copy of your travel itinerary
Keep your loved ones at home informed of your travel plans and print them a copy of your travel itinerary. The itinerary should also include the contact details of your hotel and travel insurance provider just in case they need to reach you for any emergencies back home.
Keep personal documents close
When travelling abroad, it’s important to carry your ID and passport with you at all times. You should also keep your travel insurance providers’ information with you on a card that you can easily fit into your wallet to help you in case of any accidents or injuries.
Along with your ID and passport, keep your insurance providers’ information handy for easy access.
For those of you who are savvy travellers, create back-up documents by scanning important information and emailing the files to yourself in case of theft or loss.
Keep the Canadian Consulate contact information handy
Whether you’re travelling to the US or anywhere outside of North America, it’s always a good idea to have the Canadian Consulate contact information in tow for your destination. The Canadian consular services help travellers abroad with a number of medical emergencies, legal issues, lost or stolen passports and contacting friends or relatives back home.
You can also register with Global Affairs Canada so the government will know your whereabouts if something goes wrong, or can inform you if there’s an emergency back home.
Protect yourself with travel insurance and keep the policy expiry in mind
Wherever you’re planning on travelling, don’t forget to protect yourself with Emergency Medical insurance and Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption coverage in case something goes awry before or during your trip. Read your policy carefully and ask your insurance provider or broker about coverage specific to your destination in case you need to cancel your trip or return home early.
Lastly, be aware of when their travel insurance policy actually expires. If you plan to extend your trip, make sure you’re still covered by your policy before making your decision.
Have more questions about how terrorism, unforeseen events or travel advisories impact travel insurance? Feel free to leave a comment below.
Winter is coming, and that means it’s time to get out in the snow and explore Canada’s winter wonderland by enjoying seasonal festivals, holiday activities and various winter sports! Whether you’re setting out on a snowy getaway to channel your inner sports-extremist or tackling your favourite annual winter activity, choosing the right travel insurance policy that provides the best coverage should be at the top of your list. Read on to find out which plan best suits your trip so you can make the most out of your winter!
Your Guide to Winter Sports Travel Insurance
Winter vacations filled with adventure sports can be a ton of fun, but sometimes, those adventures can go awry. Be prepared by having proper travel insurance suited to your winter activities of choice. Start with a solid Emergency Medical plan and add an Optional Sports Coverage plan if you’re partaking in more adventurous sports.
Make sure your travel insurance covers all your adventures this winter!
Be aware that if you’re travelling out-of-province, your provincial health plan won’t cover extra fees, such as the return of your vehicle, prescriptions, home/private nursing, medical equipment rentals or flying family members to your bedside. When looking for a plan with the best coverage, make sure it covers doctor’s visits, x-rays, hospitalization and emergency air transportation, among other features.
Recreational Winter Activities
Are you a ski or snowboard lover? Maybe you’re trying snowmobiling for the first time, or exploring new terrain by snowshoe. Whatever your next winter adventure may be, TuGo has a travel insurance plan fit for your next holiday. Our basic Emergency Medical plan covers many recreational activities like downhill skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and dog-sledding, just to name a few.
Dog, snow and adventure lover? Try dog-sledding in Whitehorse, Yukon for an experience you’ll never forget!
Grab your snow pants, bring your loved ones, and explore Canada’s best ski resorts knowing you’re covered in the event of any accidents or medical emergencies.
Adventure and Extreme Sports
Are you an adventurer at heart? For all the thrill-seekers out there, TuGo’s Optional Sports Coverages could be just what you’re looking for. Whether you’re ice climbing, mountaineering, bobsledding or backcountry skiing or snowboarding, our Adventure Sports Coverage and Extreme Sports Coverage will have you covered during all of your escapades this winter!
Winter Sports Contests
Thinking of entering a winter sports contest this season? You’re in luck – TuGo also covers travellers competing in contests! If you’re participating in a Motorized Speed Contest for snowmobiling or an X Games contest for snowboarding, TuGo will cover you in case of an accident or medical emergency under the Adventure or Extreme Sports Coverage.
Which Plan Covers Which Sport?
To remember which plan you need for your favourite snow sport, use the chart below to find out which optional coverage plan is suited to your next winter adventure!
Tip: If you’re participating in adventure sports and extreme sports, you’ll need to buy both coverage options to be covered for those activities. For example, if you’re going mountaineering over 6,000m, but also want to try snow kiting, you’ll need to purchase an Emergency Medical plan with the Adventure Sports Option as well as the Extreme Sports Option.
Winter Sport
Emergency Medical (*Required)
Adventure Sports (*Optional)
Extreme Sports (*Optional)
Dog-Sledding
✔
Snowmobiling
✔
Snowshoeing
✔
Skiing
✔
Snowboarding
✔
Snow Kiting
✔
Backcountry Snowboarding
✔
Luge
✔
Ice Climbing
✔
High Risk Snowmobiling
✔
Downhill Snowboarding in Organized Contests
✔
Bobsledding
✔
Backcountry Snowshoeing
✔
Downhill Skating
✔
Skeleton
✔
Mountaineering up to 6,000m
✔
Backcountry Skiing
✔
Downhill Freestyle Skiing
✔
Motorized Speed Contests
✔
Mountaineering over 6,000m
✔
Motorized X Game Sports (or those in similar type events)
✔
Don’t see your sport listed here? Chances are, it could be a summer sport, or it could be covered under our basic Emergency Medical plan. If you have any questions about the coverage of a particular sport, contact us or comment below to let us help you out!
Other Travel Insurance Plans to Consider for Your Winter Vacation
Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance
Trip Cancellation is a great idea if you’ve purchased any accommodation or transportation in advance. You never know what emergencies or weather issues can arise before you leave, so it’s best to be covered just in case.
If you’re travelling to elevated areas or participating in a winter sport such as mountaineering, altitude sickness can also become a reality. Don’t forget that any degree of injury can happen on vacation, and it may be severe enough to send you home, so it’s important to be covered with Trip Interruption insurance as well!
Air Ambulance & Evacuation
Venturing off-piste this winter? Climbing up to high snowy altitudes? It would be wise to think about a travel insurance policy that covers you in case of a high altitude injury that requires immediate medical attention.
Don’t forget to look for helicopter ambulance coverage when buying travel insurance this winter.
The Ambulance benefit in our Emergency Medical plan includes a helicopter ambulance to get you to the nearest medical facility. Our Medical Air Evacuation benefit arranges for transportation to your home country or to another facility for treatment, if required.
As hard as it is to think about, accidents do happen – some more severe than others. If you’re participating in any extreme sport, you may want to think about adding Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance to your coverage.
The Right Plan = No Stress
Whatever type of sports lover you are, there’s a plan for everyone. Do your research to make sure you get the right winter sports travel insurance policy, so you’re not stuck in a medical emergency with unwanted fees. If you cover your bases, you’ll have all the peace of mind you need to fully enjoy this holiday season.
When it comes to travel insurance, stability for pre-existing conditions can be a tricky topic to understand. To keep things simple, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about stability in relation to travel insurance, along with a few short examples to help you understand how coverage applies in different scenarios! Interested in learning more? Read on.
What is a pre-existing medical condition?
The definition of pre-existing condition varies depending on what plan you purchase, but for TuGo® Travel Insurance Emergency Medical plans, a pre-existing condition is a dental or medical condition, illness or injury:
That has been diagnosed, and for which you have consulted or received dental or medical treatment before the date you leave for your trip; or,
That has not yet been diagnosed, and for which you were experiencing symptoms before the date you leave for your trip; or,
That is a medically recognized complication or recurrence, whether or not the condition was diagnosed before the date you leave for your trip.
When planning your trip, prep yourself by learning the ins and outs of your travel insurance policy.
What is a 7-day exclusion and when does it apply?
For TuGo Travel Insurance policies, a 7-day exclusion may apply to travellers 59 and under, depending on the trip length (you’ll need to check your policy and/or contact your local insurance professional to confirm required stability periods based on trip length). The exclusion applies in the 7 days leading up to the departure date if your pre-existing condition flairs up, gets worse, requires medical treatment, or develops but remains undiagnosed before departure.
Does testing affect stability?
If you require frequent medical testing, you may be wondering if testing affects stability.
Medical testing won’t affect your pre-existing condition coverage unless there’s a change in your condition.
There are no exclusions for routine check-up tests or routine monitoring tests leading up to the departure date, and testing won’t affect your pre-existing condition coverage unless there’s a change in your condition. For example:
71-year-old Eleanor goes for routine tests to monitor her lung condition every 3 months, and takes a test within the required stability period* before she leaves for her cruise. As long as she meets all requirements to be considered stable, she may be covered (subject to conditions and exclusions).
*Check your policy wording to confirm required stability periods based on age and trip length
With temperatures rapidly dropping, wanderlust is certainly kicking in. If you’re looking for a winter-sun destination, why not travel to the Caribbean? The various islands ensure that everyone will have a great time with a smile on their face. Do you love wildlife and jungle terrain? Check out Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast! If white beaches and constant sunshine are more your speed, travel to Cuba for a rich history lesson and great weather. No matter which country you choose to visit, it’s important to pack your travel insurance along with your bathing suit. Read on to find out which coverage is best for you!
Travelling is the perfect opportunity to try something new. Whether you’re eating local street food or going on a crazy adventure, it’s important to protect yourself in case a situation goes awry. Look for a solid emergency medical plan and don’t forget your provincial health plan doesn’t cover extra fees, such as:
• Return of your vehicle • Prescriptions • Home/private nursing • Medical equipment rentals • Flying family members to your bedside • X-rays • Doctor’s visits • Hospitalization • Emergency air transportation
Tip: If you end up in a hospital, let the medical team know that you have travel insurance. In most scenarios, this will get you into a private hospital because they know the bills will be covered. Not only will the facilities be better, but you’ll most likely receive better treatment – win win!
Baggage Insurance
Don’t get stuck having to buy clothing from tourist shops out of pocket. Use baggage insurance to cover the essentials you need if anything is to go missing on your trip.
Invest in baggage insurance in case your luggage is lost, damaged or delayed at the airport
Payment for lost, damaged, destroyed or stolen baggage and personal effects, anywhere in the world, on water, land or in the air
✔
Coverage for stolen currency due to theft or robbery, up to the benefit limit of $100
✔
Payment for personal necessities if your baggage is delayed, up to the benefit limit of $200
✔
Sports & Activities Optional Coverages
Are scuba diving, zip lining or other fun activities on your bucket list? Make sure you’re covered with one of TuGo’s sports & activities optional coverages! Most common sports will be included under your emergency medical plan, but there are some that need extra coverage. For example, if you’re skydiving to experience breathtaking views of the islands, you’ll need the Adventure Sports option for the best protection. Read about which sport is covered under which plan here! Have more questions? Contact us or comment below to let us help you out!
Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance
Travelling is full of surprises – some better than others. If an unexpected event happens, such as a natural disaster, loss of a job, death of a family member or a personal medical situation that requires you to cancel your trip, Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance will protect the financial investment you’ve made for your trip. Unexpected natural disasters and diseases are just two of the many reasons that stress the importance of travel insurance.
Unfortunately, natural disasters can happen. Make sure you have Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance to protect you in case you’re stuck in a hurricane.
If you’ve already booked your trip and a formal travel advisory to avoid all travel or avoid non-essential travel to your destination is in effect after the fact, you may be covered under our Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption plan, if you’ve purchased it.
Many Caribbean islands offer all-inclusive resorts that have everything you could possibly need, all in one spot – including alcohol. Drink responsibly when you’re away as booze and travel insurance don’t mix. Not only could your claim be denied if alcohol is involved, but it could also be detrimental to your health. Did you know that binge drinking could make your heart could skip a beat? It’s called holiday heart syndrome, which is an irregular heartbeat in an otherwise healthy person. Make sure you understand your travel insurance policy so you’re not caught paying the medical bill yourself.
Information to Know Before You Go
Your island of choice will probably depend on what type of vacation you want. Some islands are more remote with lots of adventurous activities, while others are beach oases with trendy hotels, restaurants and shops. Decide on your interests and pick the island from there. Along with finding the island that’s made for you, it’s important to know the entry and exit requirements in order to arrive prepared. Use the chart below to understand what you need to arrive at your destination and travel back home safely. For more information, visit the Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories page.
Tip: Looking for deals? Travel packages will most likely be offered for the more popular destinations. But be warned, the tradeoff could be a more expensive island filled with tourists.
Country
Entry Requirements
Departure Tax
Travelling with children
Other
Aruba
• Health Insurance (travel insurance that includes health insurance) • Return or onward ticket • Proof of sufficient funds
Payable upon departure, included in airline ticket price
Special documentation
• Embarkation and Disembarkation card (ED-card) must be completed upon booking your travel • Yellow fever vaccination
Barbados
• Onward or return ticket • Intended address
Included in airline ticket
Special documentation
Yellow fever vaccination
Cayman Islands
Need a valid photo ID (driver’s license) and proof of citizenship (birth certificate) only if travelling by direct flight from Canada. All other scenarios require a passport.
N/A
Special documentation
• Yellow fever vaccination • Advised to bring a passport in all situations
Cuba
• Health Insurance (insurance policy, insurance certificate, medical assistance card accepted) • Onward or return ticket • Proof of sufficient funds
25 CUC (may be included in airline ticket cost)
Special documentation
• Can’t leave country with outstanding medical bills • Tourist card • Yellow fever vaccination
Dominican Republic
Return airline ticket
US$20
Special documentation
• Drug screening • Register biometrics (fingerprints and facial scan) • Tourist card (US$10) • Yellow fever vaccination
Jamaica
• Onward or return ticket • Proof of sufficient funds
C$20
Special documentation
Yellow fever vaccination
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Return airline ticket • Proof of sufficient funds
40 Eastern Caribbean dollars cash
Special documentation
Yellow fever vaccination
Turks and Caicos Islands
• Return ticket • Need a valid photo ID (driver’s license) and proof of citizenship (birth certificate) only if travelling by direct flight from Canada. All other scenarios require a passport
N/A
Special documentation
• Advised to bring a passport in all situations • Yellow fever vaccination
From a quick dose of Vitamin-D to spending Christmas on the beach, the Caribbean islands are great sunny destinations to visit this winter! Pair the sunshine and adventures with the right travel insurance plan and you’re bound for a memorable trip.
Where’s your favourite Caribbean destination? Let us know in the comments below!
Now that winter has officially begun, you’re probably already starting to plan your winter vacation. If you’re an avid traveller who loves the sun, you’ll fall in love with Cuba, and you’ll definitely want to read this post! Here are the best tips for you to enjoy your time in Cuba.
Choosing the Right All-Inclusive Resort for Seniors
Depending on what you’re looking for, every resort in Cuba has its pros and cons. You may want to travel for the scenery, the amenities, or maybe even the culinary experience. If food is what you’re after, try to have as many “à la carte” meals as possible. Although most 4 or 5 star resorts offer great food at in their daily buffets, the best way to guarantee fresh, high quality food is by choosing “à la carte” meals, which are typically offered 2 or 3 times per week.
Not only do all-inclusive resorts include your food, they include all of your alcohol, too. On this note, keep in mind that your travel insurance won’t cover you in case of an alcohol-related accident or illness. So, if you plan on taking advantage of the endless open bars on site, remember that alcohol and travel insurance don’t mix.
Sun bathing after a few drinks might be a dangerous mix. Remember to drink responsibly when travelling to an all inclusive resort.
If you want to sit back and relax by the beach, Cuba is the destination for you! Unlike beaches in other Caribbean destinations which can be rocky and difficult to walk on, the beaches in Cuba are soft to the touch.
If you’re more of an active traveller, find out what activities your all-inclusive resort offers. Most resorts will offer a variety of non-motorized water sports, and a few sports and activities on site, but you’ll have to pay extra to enjoy a round of golf, a horseback riding adventure or a day at the spa.
Keep in mind that just because it’s called an all-inclusive resort, doesn’t mean everything is free! Be prepared to tip the bar, the servers at the restaurants, and the cleaning staff. You may also have to pay extra for premium alcohol and other unforeseen expenses.
For a more cultural experience in Cuba, take the time to walk around Havana. The city is known for its night clubs and salsa music, but you can also explore El Malecon during the day, along with other art museums and historical buildings. You’ll also discover great street art and experience the Afro-Cuban culture first-hand!
Other Noteworthy Caribbean Destinations
Dominican Republic is well known for its beautiful turquoise water.
Other Caribbean destinations have interesting places to visit outside of the all-inclusive resorts. La Romana, in southern Dominican Republic, is a magnet for international tourists. It offers magnificent offshore islands, brilliant turquoise waters and an extensive array of attractions! If Mexico is your destination of choice, Manzanillo is also a great spot to discover. There is plenty to do for avid shoppers, history buffs, active travellers and foodies!
Sightseeing in La Romana is definitely worth checking off your list, especially if you want to do more than just sun bathe!
Avoid Hurricane Season and Check Travel Advisories
Hurricane season in Cuba is between July and November, so if you plan on leaving later this year, keep an eye on official Canadian travel advisories for Cuba. The Government of Canada may advise against all travel or all non-essential travel before or during your trip, so make sure you have adequate travel insurance in case you decide to cancel your trip or return to your home province before your trip is over.
With panoramic views and captivating ski scenes, who doesn’t love to hit the slopes every year to enjoy winter sports in Canada? Whether you’re a powder-hound or a family on an annual snow vacation, if you plan to ski or snowboard, it’s important to make sure that you have the right travel insurance coverage for your trip.
Did you know that skiing and snowboarding accounts for most winter sports injuries? And while most snow enthusiasts understand the risks of injury, there isn’t enough information on travel insurance for skiing and snowboarding. So before you start prepping to hit the slopes, arm yourself with the facts to help you select travel insurance that suits your needs.
Emergency Medical is a Must
This one’s a no-brainer, but you need to make sure that you’re covered for treatment at the nearest medical facility, in case anything goes awry when skiing or snowboarding outside of your province.
Besides covering any accidents on the hill, our travel medical insurance covers mishaps on the trip to the resort too. We also cover rental of essential medical equipment including crutches, air casts, boot casts, etc. Here are two top reasons to invest in medical insurance and what you should look out for:
Your Provincial Healthcare will cover only part of the expenses
Skiing and snowboarding are both all about the thrill, but what would be your biggest concern in case of a medical emergency on the slopes? Getting immediate medical care, of course. Our Emergency Medical plan covers your expenses if you need to see the local or resort medical practitioner or if ground or air ambulance and paramedics have to transfer you from the accident to the nearest hospital.
Search and Rescue volunteers can help you get to the nearest medical facility, but subsequent expenses can be covered with travel insurance.
Our Emergency Air Transportation benefit can help you with medical evacuation at the time of hospitalization for return to Canada or transfer to a different hospital. This benefit doesn’t just include air evacuation, but will also cover you for the cost of an airline seat upgrade, if medically necessary. It’s important to note that the emergency air transportation benefit is only payable when it’s pre-approved and arranged by Claims at TuGo. Learn more about Emergency Medical Helicopter and Air Ambulance Insurance.
Extreme Skiing
If you’ve always dreamt of taking your skiing to the next level, there are many ways travel insurance can protect you on your amped-up skiing or snowboarding adventures:
Backcountry Skiing and Snowboarding
Aspiring to venture off-piste is common for seasoned skiers; and it’s easy to do in Canada, with access to many remote slopes that are still within the ski boundaries. If you’re skiing backcountry away from your home province, travel insurance becomes a must to avoid any out-of-pocket expenses.
TuGo covers backcountry, slackcountry and off-piste skiing and snowboarding when you add the Adventure Optional Sports Coverage to your Emergency Medical Plan. However, we don’t cover out-of-bound skiing, snowboarding or snowshoeing. Learn more about how we define out-of-bounds and details on coverage for backcountry skiers.
Heli-skiing
Many ski aficionados are now adding cat-skiing, heli-skiing and heli-boarding to their winter activities wish lists. Unlike backcountry skiing, helicopter ski tours allow skiers to access the remote terrains without the physical effort of hiking. But inaccessible slopes also require skiers to have the right back up in case of a medical emergency.
If heli-skiing is on your bucket list, make the adventure both memorable and safe by ensuring that the activity is covered by your winter sports insurance.
While many insurance companies don’t offer travel insurance coverage for heli-skiing, we do! TuGo’s Emergency Medical Insurance will cover you for medical expenses in case you need an air ambulance to be transported to the nearest medical facility and also reimburse for hospital and treatment expenses. Although, it’s important to know that we’ll cover you for heli-skiing only when you book through a tour operator and not if you’re doing it on your own.
Baggage Insurance for Your Ski Equipment
If you’re flying with your skis, purchasing additional Baggage Insurance is a good idea. Our Baggage Insurance covers the loss, damage or theft of your ski gear while in transit or when you’re in your hotel or resort. This is provided you’ve notified police and relevant authorities at your accommodation or mode of transport. Read the policy wording carefully to learn about the exact amount of coverage for your ski or snowboard gear.
Here’s another thing that comes in handy with our policy; if you’re air ambulanced back home under our Emergency Air Transportation benefit, and there’s no room on the aircraft, we cover the return of excess baggage when pre-approved by Claims at TuGo. Skis and boards usually fall in this category on a full flight!
Travel Insurance for Freestyle Skiing Contests
Planning to master aerial, moguls and half-pipes for a freestyle ski contest? TuGo’s Adventure Sports Coverage protect both amateur and professional freestylers and snowboarders when you participate in, coach, teach, train or practice for Downhill Freestyle Skiing/Snowboarding in Organized Contests.
Freestyle skiers can now be covered by travel insurance
Note that for speed contests and motorized X Game sports, you’ll have to buy additional Extreme Sports Coverage. Check in with TuGo’s Customer Service team on our toll-free number 1-855-929-8846 in case you’re not sure about travel insurance coverage for the snow sport that you’re participating in. We’ll be more than happy to clarify specific questions related to the event/activity.
Comprehensive Winter Sports Travel Insurance
Looking for new ways to get adrenaline on ice? Apart from travel insurance for skiing and snowboarding, TuGo offers comprehensive protection for your winter sports activities when you purchase the Optional Sports Coverages. This includes everything from recreational activities like snowshoeing and snowmobiling to adventure sports like Snow Kiting and Ice Climbing.
Whether you’re a basic ski bunny or a daredevil powder-hound, check out our guide to winter sports travel insurance to find the plan that’ll best match your winter adventure itinerary. Be extra prepared by understanding what’s covered in your policy and ski responsibly; and don’t forget…your snow sports travel insurance could be denied if you sustain injuries under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
Have any travel insurance related questions for an upcoming winter trip? Share with us in the comments below.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s Executive Order has caused confusion and anxiety for travellers across the globe. While the ban temporarily suspends the entry of citizens from Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, it also impacts Canadian citizens, permanent residents with work or student permits, and visitors to Canada travelling to or via the US.
With conflicting information online, it’s difficult to understand how the immigration ban affects you and how you can change your plans in case you’re scheduled to travel to the US or want to interrupt your trip if you’re already in the country. We’ll help explain the impact of the US travel freeze on Canadians and let you know how we’re covering TuGo customers currently affected by the ban.
Canadians can still travel across the US border
Post-announcement, there was a lot of confusion about how the travel ban would affect Canadians with roots from the above countries. The Government of Canada was quick to clarify that the US entry requirements for Canadians don’t change as a result of the Executive Order. This includes:
Canadian citizens and passport holders
Dual citizens who have Canadian citizenship and citizenship from the seven countries (provided they present valid Canadian passports)
Canadian permanent residents who hold a passport from one of those seven countries (provided they have a valid Canadian permanent resident card)
Is it safe to travel to US?
While there could be protests across the US, it’s still safe for Canadians to travel there. However, the Government of Canada advises Canadians to expect delays at airports and borders, due to the possibility of additional screening measures; disruptions, flight delays and cancellations are also possible.
Canadians crossing the border with their passports can expect to go through the normal entry and transit process in US. In case you face any problems at the border, contact the Canadian Embassy 24/7 at 613-996-8885.
Canadian passport holders and dual citizens will not be affected by the ban. Problems at the border? Call us 24/7 at 613-996-8885.
How TuGo is helping Canadians & Visitors to Canada affected by the ban
Although the ‘travel ban’ isn’t a covered risk under TuGo’s Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption plan, we’ve decided to make an exception.
TuGo will provide coverage for visitors to Canada and/or Canadian residents with work or study permits, who hold passports from these countries and who:
booked trips to the USA, or,
have stopovers in the USA that now have to change or cancel flights to return to their home country
Any travellers with TuGo Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption policies purchased before January 27, 2017 will be covered. Coverage will only be considered if departure/stopover into the US is within the 90 days the ban is in effect.
Check out some examples and situations below to see how your TuGo® policy covers you:
Hiba is a visitor in Canada from Sudan who was planning to travel to the US in February. She bought a TuGo Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption policy on January 10, 2017 to cover a flight from Vancouver to Las Vegas on February 1, 2017, only to find out she’ll be unable to travel due to the ban. TuGo will make the exception to cover the cost of her flight, even though there is no covered risk for this situation.
Farhad is a visitor from Iran who bought TuGo’s Visitor to Canada Holiday Package on December 31, 2016 for a trip to Canada from January 15 to February 15, 2017. His itinerary to return home includes a stopover in Los Angeles; however, due to the ban, he’ll no longer be able to take the flight and has to book a new direct flight to return home from Canada. TuGo will make the exception to cover the cost of the new flight home.
Maya is an international student in Canada who holds a Syrian passport. She bought a TuGo Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption policy on January 20, 2017 to cover a trip to Disneyland for spring break. The trip needs to be cancelled, since the ban prevents her from entering the United States. TuGo will make the exception to cover and reimburse her booking expenses.
If you’re a TuGo customer affected by the Executive Order, we recommend that you contact your airline/travel supplier first to check if they’re allowing refunds or waiving cancellation fees before contacting Claims at TuGo to open a claim.
Questions? Share them in the comments below or contact TuGo’s Customer Service toll-free at 1-855-929-8846.
I’ve always been a staunch believer in travel insurance. When I first started travelling with friends, I was surprised that most of them didn’t buy travel insurance! And those that did, often relied on credit card insurance coverage. But I’ve since learned that not all policies are created equal. So if you’re relying on credit card or group plan travel insurance coverage, you may want to reconsider.
Does your credit card cover activities like skiing and scuba diving?
How to determine if your credit card insurance coverage is enough
1. Coverage clauses
Do you have to pay for the whole trip with your credit card to be covered? Is there a minimum amount?
What’s the maximum number of days covered for one trip?
Do you have to pay for the whole trip with your credit card to be covered? Is there a minimum amount?
Also, if you have employee group plan travel insurance, make sure you find out the answers to these questions too. While you may have coverage, you may be surprised at how little.
Here’s a quick and easy way to compare coverage. Download our handy Credit Card Questionnaire Comparison Tool and have it on-hand when you’re speaking with your travel insurance provider:
If you’re over 60 and you love to travel, you’re probably familiar with a Medical Health Questionnaire (MHQ), which must be completed in order to determine your rate for emergency medical travel insurance. Lucky for you, we’ve updated our Traveller MHQ to make it clearer and easier to understand. We’ve outlined the changes for you below, so you know exactly how to answer our questionnaire before your next adventure!
Updates to Question #1
Previously, you had to count aspirin as a medication for heart conditions and heart disease. Now, you don’t need to, whether it’s been prescribed to treat an existing heart condition or for preventative reasons.
This question also explains how to count hypertension and high cholesterol medication correctly. You must include hypertension (high blood pressure) or high cholesterol medication if it’s been prescribed to treat a heart condition or disease. But you don’t need to count it if it’s been prescribed solely for hypertension and/or high cholesterol.
What’s the difference between taking prescribed medication and over–the-counter medication?
When answering the Traveller MHQ, any medication that requires a prescription, or bought over-the-counter as per a doctor’s or other registered medical practitioner’s advice, would be considered medication.
We’ve improved our Traveller MHQ to make it easier for you and your spouse to answer!
Updates to Question #4
We’ve removed the word “ever” from this question to clarify that conditions only need to be counted if they are currently being treated. With this revision, we’ve made it easier to understand for seniors with previous conditions!
Of course, despite our best efforts to help you complete your MHQ correctly, mistakes can happen, but TuGo’s got you covered! If you do happen to make an honest mistake on your MHQ, a $15,000 deductible may be applied to reimburse you for the remainder of your claims cost. It’s always best to protect yourself when answering an MHQ, so be sure to take note of our tips to avoid unpaid claims!
Do you have any additional questions about our Traveller MHQ? Feel free to leave a comment below!
With temperatures rapidly dropping, wanderlust is certainly kicking in. If you’re looking for a winter-sun destination, why not travel to the Caribbean? The various islands ensure that everyone will have a great time with a smile on their face. Do you love wildlife and jungle terrain? Check out Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast! If white beaches and constant sunshine are more your speed, travel to Cuba for a rich history lesson and great weather. No matter which country you choose to visit, it’s important to pack your travel insurance along with your bathing suit. Read on to find out which coverage is best for you!
Travelling is the perfect opportunity to try something new. Whether you’re eating local street food or going on a crazy adventure, it’s important to protect yourself in case a situation goes awry. Look for a solid emergency medical plan and don’t forget your provincial health plan doesn’t cover extra fees, such as:
• Return of your vehicle • Prescriptions • Home/private nursing • Medical equipment rentals • Flying family members to your bedside • X-rays • Doctor’s visits • Hospitalization • Emergency air transportation
Tip: If you end up in a hospital, let the medical team know that you have travel insurance. In most scenarios, this will get you into a private hospital because they know the bills will be covered. Not only will the facilities be better, but you’ll most likely receive better treatment – win win!
Baggage Insurance
Don’t get stuck having to buy clothing from tourist shops out of pocket. Use baggage insurance to cover the essentials you need if anything is to go missing on your trip.
Invest in baggage insurance in case your luggage is lost, damaged or delayed at the airport
Payment for lost, damaged, destroyed or stolen baggage and personal effects, anywhere in the world, on water, land or in the air
✔
Coverage for stolen currency due to theft or robbery, up to the benefit limit of $100
✔
Payment for personal necessities if your baggage is delayed, up to the benefit limit of $200
✔
Sports & Activities Optional Coverages
Are scuba diving, zip lining or other fun activities on your bucket list? Make sure you’re covered with one of TuGo’s sports & activities optional coverages! Most common sports will be included under your emergency medical plan, but there are some that need extra coverage. For example, if you’re skydiving to experience breathtaking views of the islands, you’ll need the Adventure Sports option for the best protection. Read about which sport is covered under which plan here! Have more questions? Contact us or comment below to let us help you out!
Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance
Travelling is full of surprises – some better than others. If an unexpected event happens, such as a natural disaster, loss of a job, death of a family member or a personal medical situation that requires you to cancel your trip, Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance will protect the financial investment you’ve made for your trip. Unexpected natural disasters and diseases are just two of the many reasons that stress the importance of travel insurance.
Unfortunately, natural disasters can happen. Make sure you have Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance to protect you in case you’re stuck in a hurricane.
If you’ve already booked your trip and a formal travel advisory to avoid all travel or avoid non-essential travel to your destination is in effect after the fact, you may be covered under our Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption plan, if you’ve purchased it.
Many Caribbean islands offer all-inclusive resorts that have everything you could possibly need, all in one spot – including alcohol. Drink responsibly when you’re away as booze and travel insurance don’t mix. Not only could your claim be denied if alcohol is involved, but it could also be detrimental to your health. Did you know that binge drinking could make your heart skip a beat? It’s called holiday heart syndrome, which is an irregular heartbeat in an otherwise healthy person. Make sure you understand your travel insurance policy so you’re not caught paying the medical bill yourself.
Information to Know Before You Go
Your island of choice will probably depend on what type of vacation you want. Some islands are more remote with lots of adventurous activities, while others are beach oases with trendy hotels, restaurants and shops. Decide on your interests and pick the island from there. Along with finding the island that’s made for you, it’s important to know the entry and exit requirements in order to arrive prepared. Use the chart below to understand what you need to arrive at your destination and travel back home safely. For more information, visit the Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories page.
Tip: Looking for deals? Travel packages will most likely be offered for the more popular destinations. But be warned, the tradeoff could be a more expensive island filled with tourists.
Country
Entry Requirements
Departure Tax
Travelling with children
Other
Aruba
• Health Insurance (travel insurance that includes health insurance) • Return or onward ticket • Proof of sufficient funds
Payable upon departure, included in airline ticket price
Special documentation
• Embarkation and Disembarkation card (ED-card) must be completed upon booking your travel • Yellow fever vaccination
Barbados
• Onward or return ticket • Intended address
Included in airline ticket
Special documentation
Yellow fever vaccination
Cayman Islands
Need a valid photo ID (driver’s license) and proof of citizenship (birth certificate) only if travelling by direct flight from Canada. All other scenarios require a passport.
N/A
Special documentation
• Yellow fever vaccination • Advised to bring a passport in all situations
Cuba
• Health Insurance (insurance policy, insurance certificate, medical assistance card accepted) • Onward or return ticket • Proof of sufficient funds
25 CUC (may be included in airline ticket cost)
Special documentation
• Can’t leave country with outstanding medical bills • Tourist card • Yellow fever vaccination
Dominican Republic
Return airline ticket
US$20
Special documentation
• Drug screening • Register biometrics (fingerprints and facial scan) • Tourist card (US$10) • Yellow fever vaccination
Jamaica
• Onward or return ticket • Proof of sufficient funds
C$20
Special documentation
Yellow fever vaccination
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Return airline ticket • Proof of sufficient funds
40 Eastern Caribbean dollars cash
Special documentation
Yellow fever vaccination
Turks and Caicos Islands
• Return ticket • Need a valid photo ID (driver’s license) and proof of citizenship (birth certificate) only if travelling by direct flight from Canada. All other scenarios require a passport
N/A
Special documentation
• Advised to bring a passport in all situations • Yellow fever vaccination
From a quick dose of Vitamin-D to spending Christmas on the beach, the Caribbean islands are great sunny destinations to visit this winter! Pair the sunshine and adventures with the right travel insurance plan and you’re bound for a memorable trip.
Where’s your favourite Caribbean destination? Let us know in the comments below!
While the health and safety of your future family are always your primary concern, there are still many great destinations for a pre-baby vacation. Whether you consider a less conventional locale, opt for a staycation, or choose to go a little further than you had planned, you still have a variety of great options for a pregnancy friendly vacation without the risk of Zika.
Stay a little closer
The Zika virus has spread primarily in the Caribbean and equator countries, but these aren’t the only sunny destinations to visit. Consider staying in places south of the border, like Nevada. Destinations such as Las Vegas provide beautiful pools, world class food, and stage performances for every taste.
Waikiki beach in Honolulu, Hawaii provides a traditional beach vacation far from the centre of the Zika epidemic
If you’re looking for a more traditional destination, Hawaii is a great option. While still offering everything you would expect from a typical beach getaway, the Hawaiian Islands are far into the pacific, giving lots of space between this locale and the centre of the Zika epidemic. With beautiful oceans and many options for relaxing resorts, Hawaii is a great destination for your last vacation before baby.
Go a little farther
Another great way to protect yourself from Zika is by travelling a little further than your typical vacation destination.
The African country of Seychelles offers all you might expect from a warm getaway. The country has encouraged foreign investment in hotels and other tourism related projects, providing many options for travellers. The country also offers deep cultural influence, making it an unusual yet fascinating place to explore.
Mallorca, Spain, features cultural landmarks as well as serene beaches, perfect for a relaxing, Zika-free getaway
A slightly closer destination providing beaches and beautiful views is Mallorca. Just off the coast of Spain, Mallorca is a known destination for Europeans looking to escape cooler weather. The island showcases incredible coves as well as Roman remains, making it the perfect destination for both exploring and relaxing.
Forego the heat
If hot destinations are not your goal, or still feel risky, then consider foregoing the sun altogether. London is a cultural mecca, with its famous museums and reputation for incredible theatrical shows. Add great shopping and beautiful, historic streets, and you’ll forget you were ever a sun-seeker! If London becomes your destination of choice, do check these travel tips from a former Londoner.
Stay a little closer to home and soak in the scenery of the eastern seaboard.
A closer option might be border hopping on the east or west coast. The eastern seaboard features train travel and foliage viewing through New England. Boston and New York offer many options cultural and historic tours, in addition to distinct dining, music and theatre. On the west coast, cities like Seattle and Portland each offer their own wealth of tourist attractions as well as diverse food and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for relaxing walks, incredible food, or diverse music and entertainment, you’re sure to find whatever may interest you on the West Coast.
While equator and Caribbean countries are considered the centre of the Zika epidemic, some countries have not yet reported any local-borne cases of the virus.
Valparaiso, Uruguay has not yet reported any native-borne cases of the Zika Virus
Uruguay and Chile provide similar cultural offerings to their other South American siblings, but have yet to report a locally contracted case of the Zika virus. Uruguay offers ocean front views in Montevideo, photo ops in Colonia, and relaxing hot springs in Rio Uruguay. With Chile’s endless coastline, the famous Easter Island Moai, and a rural tourist experience few other destinations can advertise, you can’t go wrong! Check out this photo essay featuring adventures in Chile and get inspired.
Travel Safety & Travel Insurance Tips for Pregnant Travellers
If you’re planning on travelling to a country that has reported Zika, consider the following tips to be prepared for your trip.
Staying away from countries with reported Zika cases is the simplest option to protect yourself. If you have a choice, pick a Zika-free destination.
If you aren’t able to avoid travelling to a country that has reported Zika, talk to your doctor or medical practitioner about the best way to avoid the virus, like wearing long sleeve shirts and pants and using insect repellants.
Make sure you research your travel insurance coverage for your pregnancy. Here’s what you need to consider when you’re selecting travel insurance for your babymoon.Have any questions related to Zika advisories for your destination or travel insurance? Share them in the comments below or contact TuGo’s Customer Service toll-free at 1-855-929-8846.
Pregnancy can be an exciting yet stressful time for expecting parents, so its important to take a moment to relax. With this list of babymoon ideas, you can keep your pregnancy stress and Zika free!
Think others would benefit from our Zika travel tips? Share this article on Facebook or Twitter, and don’t forget to tag @TuGoInsurance!
Let’s face it—nobody loves to be restricted on vacation. It’s a time to relax and discover places both new and old! Are you in the midst of planning your next getaway? During your planning process, don’t forget to purchase travel insurance; these days, it’s a necessity! You may be surprised to know that if you’re travelling outside of your home province, your provincial health care will cover less than 10% of medical costs for any unexpected emergencies during your trip; so trust me, that 10% doesn’t go very far! Some people tend to rely on their credit card travel insurance, but it’s important to understand exactly what you’re covered for before leaving for your trip.
With that in mind, cover all your bases on your next vacation with an affordable travel insurance plan that works for you and your travel companions. From medical emergencies to missed flights, lost or damaged baggage and more, our All Inclusive Holiday Package offers comprehensive coverage. Here are 3 reasons why this plan is exactly what you need for your next adventure:
1. Bundling is the way to go
If you’re 59 or younger, and interested in additional coverage on top of Emergency Medical Insurance, your most economical option is an All Inclusive Holiday Package, which will save you time, money, and stress!
2. You’ll be prepared for the unknown
The truth is, accidents happen, travel advisories come into effect on the regular, and there are plenty of unknowns when it comes to travel. But when you’re on vacation, you shouldn’t have to worry about a thing.
Travel prepared with an All Inclusive Holiday Package for the whole family.
Our All Inclusive Holiday Package not only has you covered for Emergency Medical Insurance, but it also includes Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, and Baggage Insurance. So, the next time you’re wondering if hurricane season will impact your trip, or you want to make sure your baggage is protected, opt for the full package!
Re-imbursement for lost, damaged, destroyed or stolen baggage and personal effects, while in transit anywhere in the world, on water, land or in the air.
No matter where your next vacation takes you, make sure your travel insurance covers all the gaps before you set out on your next adventure. An All Inclusive Holiday Package is sure to do all that and more, so you can enjoy your trip carefree!
Nikki is an Administrative Assistant at TuGo. When not hiking some of Vancouver’s beautiful trails or tackling another interminable knitting project, she can be found tapping on a keyboard or planning her next travel adventure.
