Are you like many Atlantic Canadians who look forward to heading south for a few months each year? Being a snowbird means escaping harsh winter weather, but it also means special considerations from a health insurance perspective, especially if you have pre-existing condition. There are many options to insure your health when traveling out of the country for a few months.
- Purchase an annual travel insurance policy. This covers you for multiple trips over the course of a year and can be more cost-effective. But check your dates. Ensure that the insurance policy is for the whole time you’re traveling.
- Buy a single-trip travel health insurance policy that’s in place for the entire length of your trip. This option is the least complicated. However, it can also be the most expensive. If you’re a snowbird heading to the US where the cost of medical care is high, this might not be the best choice.
- Get snowbird health insurance. Yes, there are policies specifically for Canadians who spend 4-6 months at a time away from home. Since this insurance was created with the needs of snowbirds in mind, the coverage tends to be more comprehensive than traditional travel health insurance.
Do your homework. Read the terms and conditions of your health insurance policy closely so you’re clear on what is covered and what’s not, before you buy. In the event of an injury or accident, the last thing you want are financial surprises when you make a claim.
Canadian Snowbird Health Insurance Comparison
Here’s a quick overview of the health insurance choices you have as a Canadian snowbird:
| Policy option | Insurance coverage | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Annual coverage | Are you a frequent traveler? Annual policies cover many trips in a 12 month period. | More cost effective, but if varies based on the number of trips, travelers’ ages, and other factors. |
| Single trip coverage | This policy covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and interruption, and other basic coverages. | Costs vary based on the trip’s length, travelers’ ages, and other factors. |
| Comprehensive coverage | Comprehensive policies cover more (as the name suggests): medical expenses, trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, emergency medical transportation, and repatriation. | More expensive. However, if you have pre-existing medical conditions or going to a remote area, consider this option. |
| Top-up coverage | This extra coverage can be added to an annual or single-trip policy to extend the coverage period or add additional benefits, such as rental car insurance or lost passport reimbursement. | Costs vary based on how long you need the coverage and what additional benefits you choose. |
With top-up coverage or an annual policy you can purchase coverage anytime. Be sure you’re adequately covered for all of your trip. However, for single trip and comprehensive health insurance policies, make your purchase before you leave Canada.
Advice for Canadian Snowbirds
Here are a few additional considerations for snowbirds before you head for the warmer climate:
- Do you have any pre-existing conditions? Do you have special needs or requirements? Make sure your policy coverage takes these into account.
- Do you plan to boat, mountain bike, play golf, etc while you’re away? Some are riskier than others; make sure the health insurance policy you choose covers all of the activities.
- Know what your policy’s maximum financial payout is. This is useful to know if you have to make a claim.
- Policy terms can be complex. Give yourself time to understand your options and what you’re buying. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unclear.
Remember that travel health insurance is not a substitute for health care. In the event you or your traveling companion has a medical emergency while you’re away, seek medical attention immediately. Learn more about what you should do if you get sick while traveling in another country.
If you’re a snowbird planning to escape the Atlantic Canadian winter, don’t leave home without packing travel health insurance! The right policy can protect you from financial loss and put your mind at ease so you can enjoy the sunshine. Learn more about travel health insurance coverage and options.