(NC) - March Break is one of the year’s busiest travel periods and happens to coincide with the busiest season for colds and flus. Vacation is also a time where we may engage in activities most of us don’t do every day, such as skiing, diving or hiking — activities that may sometimes lead to injuries.
When travelling within Canada, not everything is covered under provincial health plans. Insurance coverage for trips outside a home province can provide important benefits.
For example, if you live in Saskatchewan but sustain injury on a ski holiday in Quebec, travel insurance can help cover incidental costs that may not be covered under your provincial health care plan, including extra costs that may be required to get you home. When travelling outside Canada, medical attention could cost tens of thousands of dollars more than your provincial health plan will cover.
Travellers need to check if they have sufficient coverage through for themselves, their spouses and their children. Students vacationing during “Reading Week” should also confirm what coverage they may have under their parents’ plans.
“With the right travel insurance, you can enjoy your vacation knowing that should any unfortunate incident occur — from stolen travel documents to an accident — your insurer can provide emergency assistance,” Adrian Hall, vice-president of travel at RSA Insurance Group, said.
“They can also help co-ordinate all aspects of care with medical service providers and act as a liaison with important family, medical and business contacts at home.”
Hall also offers the following tips for families before departing on their March Break travels:
- Confirm well in advance if any inoculations or medications are needed before visiting the destination;
- Carry sufficient prescription medication and allergy treatments in your carry-on luggage;
- If travelling outside your home province, carry provincial health cards and drivers licenses.
- Travellers should also carry their insurance wallet card to call for assistance at any time.
Posted by Laurel Myers
