Getting travel insurance coverage

First step in shopping for travel health insurance? Find out if you're already covered and if you are go over the policy's details. Is your spouse covered? How about the kids? Is there a limit to the number of days you can be away? Bottom line - make sure any existing coverage is adequate.

What to look for in a travel health insurance policy
Travel health insurance plans are not created equal. Read the policy and ask questions. Insurance jargon got you puzzled? Ask for clarification.

Sample questions worth knowing the answer
Get the facts before you buy. Here are some questions to ask your potential travel insurance provider:

• What is the maximum amount my policy will pay above my provincial health insurance limits?
• Will I need to pay a deductible? If so, how much?
• Is there a co-payment clause? If so, what percentage of medical expenses must I pay?
• Does the policy restrict my participation in certain sports or activities?
• What if I get sick or am injured when travelling with my child? Is child care included?
• Is there 24-hour assistance in the case of a medical emergency?
• If I decide to stay out of the country longer than expected, how will this affect my coverage?
• What must I do if I need medical attention?
• Do I need a separate policy for my children?
• Do I need to pay for medical services upfront?
• What is your procedure for handling complaints?

Be prepared to answer some questions, too. The cost and extent of coverage depends on things like your health, your age, any medication you take, where you're going and how long you'll be away. Answer all questions accurately and completely, not doing so could be costly should you end up needing to make use of your travel insurance coverage.

Travel insurance quickguides

• Introduction to travel insurance in Canada
• What's covered by a travel insurance policy and what's not
• Getting travel insurance coverage
• Getting medical attention with your travel insurance

The information contained within this article is subject to change. Always speak with your travel insurance supplier, or a licensed insurance representative, to answer your specific questions. The information collected and compiled here is intended to simply act as a guide.