Travel Insurance in the Post-Pandemic World: What Canadian Travelers Need to Know
Booking a trip is exciting, but in today’s world it also comes with more “what ifs” than ever before. Since the pandemic, travel insurance policies have changed in ways that can surprise even experienced travelers. Some coverages that were once standard now require add-ons, and the fine print has never been more important.
Whether you’re flying to Europe, heading south for the winter, or planning a quick weekend in the U.S., here is what’s different about travel insurance today and how to make sure you are properly covered.
1. Pandemic and Epidemic Coverage Is No Longer Automatic
Before 2020, very few policies mentioned pandemics at all. Now, many insurers treat them as exclusions unless you specifically add a rider for COVID-19 or other outbreaks.
What to check before you buy:
- Does your policy include coverage for illness, quarantine, or cancellations caused by a pandemic?
- If you are visiting more than one country, is coverage valid in every destination?
2. Trip Cancellation Rules Have Tightened
“Cancel for any reason” coverage still exists, but it is now an optional upgrade with higher premiums. Standard trip cancellation policies have more restrictive definitions of what qualifies as a covered reason.
Tip: Always confirm the list of covered cancellation reasons. If you want the flexibility to cancel for personal reasons, speak to your broker about adding the broader coverage before your trip.
3. Medical Coverage Abroad May Be Required for Entry
Some destinations now require proof of minimum emergency medical coverage before allowing entry. If you do not have it, you could be denied boarding or refused at the border.
Before you go:
- Check your destination’s medical coverage requirements.
- Make sure your policy includes hospital stays, quarantine expenses, and emergency evacuation.
4. Trip Delay and Interruption Coverage Is Expanding
Flight disruptions, missed connections, and unexpected quarantines have pushed insurers to expand interruption benefits. These can now include extended hotel stays, meals, and rebooking costs.
Even if your flights are booked with points, interruption coverage can save you hundreds or even thousands in unexpected expenses.
5. Common Travel Insurance Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced travelers can make costly errors when buying coverage. The most common include:
- Assuming your credit card coverage is enough: Many cards offer limited benefits with strict conditions.
- Buying insurance too late: Some benefits, like trip cancellation, only apply if you purchase coverage shortly after booking your trip.
- Skipping pre-existing condition coverage: If you have any medical history, make sure it is covered—or you risk paying out of pocket abroad.
Avoiding these mistakes can make the difference between a smooth claims process and a stressful financial surprise.
The Bottom Line
Today’s travel insurance is about more than medical emergencies. It is about flexibility, compliance, and financial protection in an unpredictable travel landscape.
At Assurances Simon, we help Canadian travelers choose the right coverage for their destination, trip length, and budget. Whether you need a single-trip plan or a policy with broader protection, our team can guide you through the options so you can travel with confidence.
