In the coming weeks we will be changing our brand name from HUB SmartCoverage to VIU by HUB. There is nothing for you to do with this rebrand as it does not change your coverage, policy terms or support team. Our new brand name reflects our commitment to a simpler, more modern approach to serving our customers.

Travel with Confidence With Emergency Medical Insurance

By HUB SmartCoverage Team on May 20th, 2026

Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons for Canadians. Whether you’re heading to another province, exploring the United States, or taking an overseas vacation, it’s easy to focus on flights, accommodations, and activities while overlooking one of the most important parts of trip planning: emergency medical travel insurance.

At HUB SmartCoverage, we strongly encourage all Canadians to purchase emergency medical travel insurance before leaving home, even when travelling within Canada.

Provincial Health Coverage Has Limits

Many Canadians assume their provincial health plan will cover them if they become sick or injured while travelling. While some coverage may apply, it is often very minimal and may not cover:

  • Ground or air ambulance services
  • Prescription medications
  • Emergency dental treatment
  • Hospital charges above provincial reimbursement rates
  • Medical evacuation back home
  • Accommodation and transportation for accompanying family members

Even a short hospital stay outside your home province or country can result in significant out-of-pocket costs.

Credit Card Coverage May Not Be Enough

Some travellers rely on the travel insurance included with their credit card. While this can be helpful, there are often important restrictions, such as:

  • The entire trip may need to be charged to the card
  • Coverage may be limited based on age
  • Maximum trip lengths may be short
  • Pre-existing medical condition exclusions may apply
  • Coverage limits may be lower than expected

Before relying on credit card insurance, it’s important to read the policy details carefully.

Workplace Benefits Often Have Limitations

Employer-sponsored travel insurance can also provide valuable protection, but these plans may include:

  • Maximum benefit amounts
  • Restrictions on trip duration
  • Limited family coverage
  • Exclusions for certain medical conditions

Many travellers are surprised to discover their workplace coverage may not fully meet their needs.

Emergency Medical Insurance Is Affordable and Flexible

Standalone emergency medical travel insurance is often more affordable than people expect, especially compared to the potential cost of an unexpected medical emergency.

Policies can be customized based on:

  • Your age
  • Destination
  • Length of trip
  • Medical history
  • Coverage amount and deductible

This allows you to choose a plan that fits your needs and your budget.

The Government of Canada Recommends Buying Travel Insurance

The Government of Canada advises Canadians to purchase the best travel health insurance they can afford before leaving their province. This recommendation reflects the reality that medical costs can be extremely expensive and stressful without proper coverage.

Travel with Peace of Mind

Travel should be about making memories, not worrying about medical bills. Emergency medical travel insurance helps protect you and your family from unexpected costs and provides access to assistance when you need it most.

At HUB SmartCoverage, we make it easy to compare affordable emergency medical travel insurance options so you can travel with confidence. Quote and purchase your policy online today.

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