Escaping the cold Windsor-Essex winter? If your 2026 plans include trips to warm destinations like Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America or anywhere outside of your home province, make sure your travel plans include solid medical protection.
According to the Government of Canada, Canadians are currently advised to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling in Mexico and other popular destinations due to elevated crime levels, kidnapping risks, and other security concerns. Some areas have regional warnings advising to avoid non-essential travel.
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Why Travel Medical Insurance Matters
Travel insurance is more essential than ever. Rising overseas medical costs, more frequent travel disruptions (weather events, delays), and stricter entry requirements make buying appropriate coverage an important part of trip planning. Provincial health plans like OHIP cover very little outside Canada.
Common Misconceptions About Coverage
- Credit card or workplace benefits may not be enough
Even if you have some coverage through a credit card or employee benefits plan, it may not include emergency medical, evacuation, repatriation, or travel interruption coverage. Governments and insurance professionals alike strongly recommend comprehensive travel medical insurance for all international trips.
- Not all destinations are equally “safe”
For example, the Canadian government currently lists parts of Mexico on its watch list, warning travellers to carefully assess trips to high-crime states and to exercise extra vigilance everywhere.
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How Travel Medical Insurance Helps
Here’s how travel medical insurance should help if something goes wrong far from home:
- Emergency care and hospital costs: Foreign hospital stays and procedures may run into tens of thousands of dollars.
- Medical evacuation and repatriation: Air ambulance or return to Canada in a serious emergency.
- 24/7 assistance and language help: Specialists can help you find care, communicate with providers, and support claims.
- Trip interruption/cancellation coverage: Some options may include reimbursement for prepaid costs if illness or a change in circumstances forces you to return home early.
Tips for Avoiding Trouble Abroad
- Know the local risks — Check the Government of Canada Travel Advice & Advisories before you go and sign up for alerts. 3
- Keep loved ones informed — Let your travel companion(s) know who to call and where to find your insurance details in an emergency.
- Be prepared — Some hospitals abroad require a deposit before they treat you — be ready with a credit card or cash if needed.
- Contact your provider first — If possible, call your insurer’s 24/7 hotline for guidance; they can help coordinate direct billing or paperwork that ensures faster care.
Gibb Insurance Brokers Has Your Back
Whether it’s a short winter getaway or a long snowbird season, let us help you choose the travel medical insurance that fits your needs offering broad emergency protection. Reach out to us or
start your online quote today.
Safe travels and smart planning!