4 things to know about insurance when you visit Canada
Canada is undisputedly one of the best countries to live in the world. It may be hard to imagine for those of us who already live here, but a lot of people around the world want to come see this place.
Whether you have family members that want to visit Canada, or you’re an American who wants to take a road trip north of the border for the fun of it, or you’re working or studying here temporarily, there is a wide range of things you want to familiarize yourself with before visiting the country. One of the things to consider when you visit Canada is how to make sure you’re protected against emergencies.
Getting travel insurance coverage when you visit Canada is a good idea. Here are some of the insurance products you should consider before you join us:
1. Travel health insurance is your best friend
Before you leave your country, purchase a travel health insurance policy that will cover any medical needs you may have during your stay in Canada.
Depending on the length or nature of your trip, you’ll want to extended coverage, such as coverage for stolen possessions, but sometimes you might be covered against certain perils without realizing it. The medical coverage is essential, though, if you want to avoid a big hospital bill. You can purchase temporary insurance from a company in Canada, or see if your own health care policy covers your travel in other countries.
2. U.S. car insurance covers you in Canada
If you’re driving your car up from the United States, make sure your policy covers you while you’re out of country. Standard U.S. car insurance policies typically cover you while in Canada, but that’s no reason to assume. The DMV recommends talking to your insurer and telling them about your trip. Also, make sure you get proof of insurance for your trip.
3. You are allowed to drive a borrowed vehicle
If you’re visiting friends or relatives and they don’t mind letting you drive their car a couple of times, they don’t need to worry about their insurance coverage as long as you have a valid driver’s license from your place of residence. The Insurance Bureau of Canada recommends
Canadians who lend their vehicles to friends keep these three things in mind:
- “You must agree – verbally or in writing – that the driver may use your vehicle.
- You can’t lend your auto on a regular basis to someone without naming him or her on your insurance policy. If, for example, a friend wants to drive your auto every Friday to go grocery shopping, update your policy to include him or her as an occasional driver.
- The person who borrows your auto must be licensed and legally allowed to drive in the province or territory where you both live.”
4. Your belongings may be covered with your home insurance
If you have a homeowner’s insurance policy, there’s a good chance your possessions are covered even when you’re travelling. On the off-chance they aren’t, though, you can make sure your belongings are covered with your travel insurance coverage.
Canada is a great place to visit. But, like all travel, there are risks. Insurance is designed to help protect you against them.