The top 5 travel insurance pitfalls and how to steer clear of them

Avoid holiday travel insurance mistakes. Buy insurance right after booking, don't rely only on credit card coverage and disclose health changes.

Between daydreaming about adventures, picking destinations and booking your flights, planning a holiday is always exciting. But in all the excitement, travel insurance is often an afterthought.

Small oversights can have big consequences when the unexpected happens, but if you avoid these five common travel insurance mistakes, your next trip will be nothing but smooth sailing.

Buying travel insurance at the last minute

For many people, buying travel insurance isn’t something they do until just a few days before departure. But the best time to buy is right after you book your trip, to make sure you’re protected against unexpected events before you even leave.

To make the most of your coverage, aim to purchase your travel insurance within 72 hours of your initial trip payment. Doing so may make you eligible for ‘Cancel For Any Other Reason (1)’ protection, which provides valuable flexibility if your plans change.

“You never know what might happen, and life can be unpredictable,” says Rachel Lalonde, CAA Orleans travel store manager.

“I want to ensure my trip is protected right away; it’s peace of mind knowing I can make adjustments or cancel, with insurance protecting my investment.”

Relying on credit card or employer coverage

It’s tempting to assume your workplace or credit card insurance offers complete travel protection, but coverage limits are often lower than you think or don’t cover what you need.

While some credit cards include coverage for emergencies, trip interruptions, or lost baggage, these aren’t always automatic and benefits can vary greatly depending on your card type or plan. Plus, you may need to pay extra to even activate them at all.

Before relying on your credit card or work benefits to cover everything, use this checklist to ensure you’re covered, and always read the fine print or contact your provider to confirm what’s included. Never assume your coverage is comprehensive without checking the details first.

Not disclosing health changes or pre-existing conditions

Even small changes to your health, like a new prescription or results from a recent doctor visit, can affect your travel insurance eligibility. If your health status changes after you’ve bought your policy, always update your insurer before you leave for the trip.

Transparency is key. Travellers who have required medical care abroad have had their claims denied because they failed to report a seemingly minor change in medication or condition. If in doubt, disclose it. It’s not worth risking the loss of coverage when you need it most.

Overlooking insurance for domestic travel

Many Canadians assume travel insurance isn’t needed for trips within the country, but that’s not always true. While provincial healthcare plans like OHIP cover most out-of-province medical expenses, there are limitations and you might be left paying for certain services, especially in remote regions where you might need special emergency transport in the event of an emergency.

If you’re travelling to another province or planning to visit remote areas, it’s worth adding domestic travel insurance. It’s an affordable way to ensure you’re protected no matter where your journey takes you.

Assuming all policies are the same

Every traveller is different, and so are their insurance needs. Seniors, families, adventure seekers, and frequent flyers should all consider tailored coverage.

If you travel several times a year, a multi-trip plan (3) could save you money and hassle. It covers multiple getaways under one cost-effective policy, making it ideal for snowbirds, spontaneous adventurers, or families who travel often.

For those chasing excitement, such as parasailing, hot-air ballooning, or helicopter tours, remember that high-risk activities aren’t always covered under standard plans. Ask your CAA Travel Consultant about adding extra protection with rider options (1) if your travel plans include adventure sports or activities.

Protect your trip and get true peace of mind

Before your next holiday, make sure you’re fully covered. CAA Travel Insurance offers comprehensive protection that goes beyond what most group or credit card plans provide. CAA Members can save up to 20 per cent (2) on their policy, and getting an online quote takes just a few minutes.

Enjoy your getaway knowing you’re protected every step of the way with CAA Travel Insurance. Bon voyage!

CAA Travel Insurance, an Orion Travel Insurance product, is underwritten by Echelon Insurance. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply. Subject to change without notice. A Medical Questionnaire is required if you are 60 years of age and older. Quotes are valid for 30 days.

1. Certain exclusions, limitations and restrictions apply.
2. To have your pre-existing medical condition covered by your travel insurance policy, the medical condition must be stable as defined by your policy. Please see the policy at [caaneo.ca/policy] for full details.
3. Multi-Trip medical plans cover 4, 8, 15, 30, or 60 days per trip depending on the plan you purchased. Top-Up coverage is available for longer trips. Coverage cannot extend beyond 365 days from departure date or effective date. Multi-Trip vacation packages covers 4, 8, 15 or 30 days per trip depending on the plan purchased. Top-Up coverage is available for longer trips. Coverage cannot exceed 365 days from departure date or effective date. There is a maximum travel coverage of 63 days including Top-Up for travellers aged 60 to 84 years of age.
4. Applies to CAA Members in good standing (CAA Membership dues paid in full by Membership expiry date). Up to twenty percent (20 per cent) savings applies to the total premium excluding applicable taxes. Minimum premium applies. Subject to change without notice. Excludes Visitors to Canada Insurance. CAA Everyday, Classic®, and Plus® Members save 10 per cent. CAA Premier® Members save 20 per cent at CAA Stores or by calling 1-800-267-8713. CAA Premier Members save 10 per cent and earn 10 per cent in CAA Dollars® when booking online.

®CAA trademarks are owned by, and use is authorized by, the Canadian Automobile Association.