How to Choose the Right Insurance
Published on: October 1, 2025
More and more Canadians are travelling abroad—whether to recharge, reconnect with loved ones, or embrace new adventures. No matter the destination or the reason for your trip, having the right insurance is essential because the unexpected can happen at any time.
But how do you know which insurance plan truly meets your needs? This guide provides practical tips to help you make the right choice and highlights the coverage available from Québec Blue Cross, so you can enjoy your travels with confidence.
Essential Questions to Evaluate Your Coverage
1. Am I already covered by my credit card or group insurance?
You may already have travel insurance through a group plan or a credit card. However, this coverage often comes with limitations such as restrictions on the number of days covered, the type of travel, or the benefits included. A cancelled flight or an unexpected hospital visit abroad could end up costing you a significant amount. Before you travel, review your insurance policy carefully to ensure it provides the coverage you need.
2. How many days will I be travelling outside the country?
Be sure to calculate the total number of days you’ll be away to confirm whether your current coverage is sufficient or if you need additional insurance. It’s essential to be insured for the entire duration of your trip; otherwise, you may not be eligible for reimbursement if your policy expires before you return.
3. Are my destination or planned activities considered “at risk”?
A week relaxing at the beach and a remote mountain trek come with very different risks. If you’re travelling to a region under a Government of Canada advisory—especially due to conflict or instability—your travel insurance may have certain limitations or exclusions.
The same applies if you’re participating in activities considered at risk, such as whitewater rafting, off-piste skiing, or free climbing. Check the list of activities covered by Québec Blue Cross travel insurance to ensure your plans are fully insured.
4. Do I have a pre-existing medical condition?
It’s important to understand what qualifies as a pre-existing medical condition and how it may impact your coverage. This knowledge will help you choose a plan that truly fits your situation and prevent unpleasant surprises during your trip.
If you’re unsure, please contact us or refer to our detailed article on pre-existing medical conditions for more information.
5. What is my budget?
Every traveller has a different budget, and there’s a wide range of travel insurance options to match. The key is to strike the right balance between what you’re comfortable spending and the level of coverage you need.
Our tip: Use our online quote tool to compare coverage options and prices. Once you’ve found the right fit, you can complete your purchase in just a few clicks.
6. Do I plan to travel again this year?
If you expect to take multiple trips outside your province this year, it’s worth planning ahead. Not only can you save time, but you can also save a significant amount of money.
With Multi-Trip Annual travel insurance, frequent travellers can purchase a single policy that provides coverage for unlimited trips over 12 months, making it simple and convenient to get away whenever they like.
Travel Insurance Coverage Designed for You
Every trip is unique, just like every traveller’s needs. That’s why Québec Blue Cross travel insurance lets you customize your plan by choosing from the coverage solutions below.
Emergency Medical Care
Our most popular coverage, this protects you against unexpected medical expenses during your trip, whether from an accident or sudden illness.
Baggage
Stay on track even if your luggage is delayed, lost, or damaged. This coverage helps safeguard your belongings so you can keep enjoying your trip.
Trip Cancellation and Interruption
Sometimes plans change. This coverage can reimburse travel expenses you’ve already paid if you need to cancel, modify, or return home early for a covered reason.
Option: Cancel for Any Reason
Want maximum flexibility? Add this option and get reimbursed for part of your travel expenses—even for reasons not typically covered, like a poor weather forecast.
Accidental Death or Dismemberment
An accident can affect far more than your trip. This coverage provides up to $300,000 in benefits to protect you and your loved ones in the event of death or serious injury.
The Little Extras That Make a Big Difference
With over 50 years of experience caring for travellers, we know that it’s often the little extras that can make your trip more enjoyable. That’s why all Québec Blue Cross travel insurance policies include, at no additional cost, Flight Delay Service and 24/7 travel assistance, giving you support whenever you need it most.