Travel Insurance

Travel insurance usually doesn't cover trips to places where the Canadian government, through Global Affairs Canada, has advised against travel. This includes warnings against all travel or non-essential travel issued before your policy starts. Before you buy travel insurance and before your trip, it's a good idea to check the Government of Canada's Travel and Tourism website for any travel advisories. Also, make sure to read your travel insurance policy's terms and conditions to confirm that it covers your destination.

You can view the Government of Canada Travel Advisories at the following URL: Travel advice and advisories - Travel.gc.ca

Travel insurance coverage can be influenced by travel advisories, such as government warnings or media reports about severe weather, civil unrest, or disease outbreaks at your destination. Many policies include a "known events" clause. This means if an event (like a volcanic eruption) is already known when you buy your insurance, you might not be covered for claims related to that event. For instance, if you buy a policy after a travel warning is issued and then need to cancel your flight because of that event, your claim could be affected. However, claims for unrelated medical expenses are usually assessed based on your policy's terms and conditions, regardless of the travel advisory.

Travel insurance doesn't cover everything. For instance, it usually doesn't pay for issues related to high-risk pregnancies, activities like motor racing or stunts, and pre-existing medical conditions that aren't stable. It's important to read your policy to know these exclusions. If you're unsure about what's not covered or need more information about your policy's specific rules and limits, you can always contact your advisor for help.