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Pacific Blue Cross Travel Insurance Review 2024

Updated: Feb 28, 2024, 7:04am

Pacific Blue Cross has a stellar reputation in B.C. as the number one ranked health benefits provider in the province. In addition to life, health and group insurance, Pacific Blue Cross offers comprehensive travel insurance with $10 million in medical coverage and an attractive pre-existing conditions benefit. While the premiums are more affordable than other insurers, some of the benefit limits are lower. In addition, you must be a resident of B.C. or the Yukon to purchase a travel plan.

• Customizable benefit options
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Free emergency medical coverage for kids
• Medical questionnaire is optional
• Some benefit limits lower than other insurers
• No electronic submission for claims
• Must be a resident of B.C. or the Yukon

Table of Contents

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Based in Burnaby, B.C. the not-for-profit PBC Health Benefits Society (operating as Pacific Blue Cross) provides health, dental, life, disability and travel coverage for residents of B.C. and the Yukon. Pacific Blue Cross is British Columbia’s number one health benefits provider through group benefits and individual plans.

Pacific Blue Cross is a registered trademark of the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans (CABCP) and the registered trade name of PBC Health Benefits Society, an independent licensee of CABCP. Life and Property and Casualty insurance is sold through PacBlue Life Services Ltd., a licensed insurance agency and subsidiary of Pacific Blue Cross, and underwritten by various underwriters, depending on the coverage purchased.

Here are the key types of travel insurance coverage offered in Pacific Blue Cross travel insurance plans:

• Emergency medical insurance: If you fall ill or are injured on your trip, travel medical insurance can pay for emergency medical expenses, up to the coverage limits in your plan. These expenses can include doctor and hospital bills, medication and lab work.
• Trip cancellation insurance: If you cancel a trip for a reason listed in your travel policy, such as you or your travelling companion becoming ill, weather conditions causing a massive delay or you end up losing your job, trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you for prepaid, non-refundable costs.
• Travel interruption or delay insurance: Trip interruption insurance can pay for a last-minute flight home in an emergency and money that you lose if you have to return home earlier than expected, such as non-refundable activities and hotel stays. If your flight is delayed , your insurance can cover the cost of incidentals, such as meals or accommodations, after a specified period of time, usually six, 10 or 12 hours.
• Baggage insurance: Baggage travel insurance can compensate you up to your policy limits if your luggage is lost or stolen. It will reimburse the depreciated value of your suitcases and what you packed. If your checked bags are delayed, it can reimburse you for the cost of the necessities you’ll have to buy to tide you over.
• Travel accident insurance. This coverage offers compensation in the event of accidental death or catastrophic injury from an accident during your trip. Flight Accident Insurance covers injury while you’re on a commercial plane, during a connection or in an airport. Travel Accident Insurance covers death or dismemberment, including the loss of limbs or eyesight, while on your trip. This is also called Accidental Death and Dismemberment benefit.

Pacific Blue Cross allows you to customize the amount of coverage you need. For example, you could opt for the most comprehensive travel insurance protection by selecting the Emergency Medical Care Benefit and the All Inclusive Trip Protection Plan, or you could choose the Basic Trip Protection Plan alone if you’re mostly concerned about baggage and travel accidents.

The individual benefits are as follows:

Emergency Medical Care Benefit: If you’re worried about medical emergencies while travelling, this benefit offers the following coverage:

• Hospital accommodation in a semi-private or private room
• Hospital allowance for incidental expenses, such as TV rental, parking, telephone, etc., up to $100 per hospitalization
• Physician fees
• Private duty nursing
• Paramedical services, such as care from a physiotherapist, chiropractor, osteopath or podiatrist, up to $300 per profession
• Tests and diagnostics, including X-rays
• Prescription medication as part of emergency treatment
• The purchase or rental cost of crutches, canes or splints, and the rental cost of a wheelchair, orthopedic corset or other medical appliances
• Emergency dental due to injury, up to $2,000 per accident
• Emergency dental due to pain or disease, up to $500 per trip
• Ground or air ambulance transportation
• Repatriation for medical treatment
• Transportation for a bedside companion, plus subsistence allowance for meals, accommodation and childcare
• Return of vehicle due to illness or accident
• Baggage return if you are repatriated due to medical reasons
• Return of your remains in the event of death
• Subsistence allowance for meals and accommodation if your return is delayed due to a medical reason

The Medical Follow-up in Canada Benefit is included if you purchase the Emergency Medical Care Benefit. If you are repatriated due to a medical emergency, the following costs will be reimbursed if incurred within 15 days of your repatriation:

• The cost of a semi-private room in a hospital, rehabilitation centre or convalescent home, maximum $1,000
• The fees for home nursing care when medically required, up to $50/day, maximum 10 days
• The costs for the rental of crutches, standard walker, canes, trusses, orthopedic corset and oxygen, maximum $150
• The cost for transportation, including ambulance and/or taxi, in order to receive medical care, maximum $250

All Inclusive Trip Protection: This package option includes trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage, air flight accident and accidental death and dismemberment benefits.

• Trip cancellation with interruption: This reimburses you for insured travel expenses (such as hotels or prepaid excursions) if you have to cancel, interrupt, extend or modify your trip due to a covered reason either before your trip or after you have left home. This includes transportation expenses if you have to interrupt, modify or extend your trip, as well as a subsistence allowance for hotels and meals if your return home is delayed.
• Baggage: This provides compensation if your baggage is delayed, lost, stolen or damaged during your trip.
• Air flight accident: This offers coverage for the accidental loss of life or limb while travelling as a passenger on a plane, land or water conveyance, helicopter shuttle, or while waiting at the airport. This coverage also includes losses due to exposure after a forced landing.
• Accidental death or dismemberment: This coverage option offers reimbursement in the event you die, or lose the use of one or more limbs during a travel accident. The amount paid out depends on your age and the severity of the accident.

Deluxe Trip Protection: This package option includes trip interruption (that reimburses you for prepaid expenses if your trip gets unexpectedly interrupted once it’s begun), baggage, air flight accident and accidental death and dismemberment.

Basic Trip Protection: This package option includes baggage, air flight accident and accidental death and dismemberment.

We’ve highlighted the key benefits for each coverage option available for the single trip plan when travelling outside of Canada to help you identify your travel needs:

Emergency Medical Care Benefit:

Travel benefits:, trip cancellation & interruption benefit:, baggage benefit:.

The price of a Pacific Blue Cross travel insurance plan depends on factors such as the cost of your trip, your age, your health and the amount of coverage you choose.

Here are some examples of the cost for Pacific Blue Cross single trip plans for healthy travellers based in B.C.:

In addition, when you purchase emergency travel insurance for one or two parents, each dependent child who is 21 years of age or younger will receive free emergency medical coverage up to the $10 million policy limit.

Emergency medical: $5 million Cancel For Any Reason: Yes, 50% to 75% Baggage insurance (maximum): $1,500

Related: CAA Travel Insurance Review

Blue Cross (Ontario)

Emergency medical: $5 million Cancel For Any Reason: No Baggage insurance (maximum): $1,500

Related: Blue Cross (Ontario) Travel Insurance Review

Manulife Financial

Emergency medical: $10 million Cancel For Any Reason: No Baggage insurance (maximum): $1,000

Related: Manulife Financial CoverMe Travel Insurance Review

Pacific Blue Cross offers an optional Pre-Existing Condition Benefit for travellers who also purchase the Emergency Medical Care Benefit. This benefit gives you up to $10 million in medical coverage following an emergency due to a pre-existing condition that would otherwise be excluded from coverage. This benefit does not cover any expenses if the medical condition showed symptoms in the seven days before your departure.

This benefit must be purchased within 15 days of buying the emergency medical benefit and before your departure date if the insurer decides a detailed medical review is required.

A medical questionnaire is an option for travellers over age 61 with pre-existing conditions. The insurer notes, “You are not obligated to complete the questionnaire, however doing so gives you a definite advantage. In 80% of cases, the questionnaires result in coverage that may not otherwise be granted.” Your doctor needs to complete the questionnaire and forward it to Pacific Blue Cross. There the medical director will review your answers and “if your pre-existing condition is stable and does not present an increased risk, it will be covered and you will be able to leave on your trip with true peace of mind.”

You are not eligible for this benefit if any of the following conditions apply:

• You have been advised by your physician not to travel.
• You have a medical condition in a terminal phase.
• You have kidney failure that is being treated by dialysis.
• You have a lung condition being treated with oxygen or cortisone therapy.
• You have cancer with metastasis.

Here are some examples of the cost of the Pre-Existing Benefit add-on:

Pacific Blue Cross offers a 10% or more discount off your travel insurance premium if you also have a Pacific Blue Cross Extended Health Care and/or Dental plan.

Yes. You can buy multi-trip annual insurance if you travel more than once a year for multiple individual trips. Pacific Blue Cross offers emergency medical coverage and trip protection coverage for 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, 150 or 180 days per trip. If you plan a trip longer than your selected coverage, you can add extra days or top-up your coverage.

Here’s how the prices between single trip and multi-trip insurance compare using the example of the Emergency Medical Care benefit:

Medi-Assist Travel Assistance (provided through CanAssistance) is offered free of charge with all Pacific Blue Cross travel insurance products and toll-free assistance is available 24/7, 365 days of the year. Depending on the coverage provided by your insurance policy, emergency support includes:

• Referral to an appropriate clinic or hospital
• Advance of funds to the hospital, if necessary
• Confirmation of the medical insurance coverage to avoid paying a substantial deposit
• Following your medical file and communicating with your family physician
• Coordinating repatriation to your home province if medically necessary
• Coordinating the safe return of dependent children if you (the parent) are hospitalized
• Making arrangements for a bedside companion if you are hospitalized for at least seven days
• Coordinating the return of your vehicle if you are unable to return it due to a covered accident or illness
• Transmission of urgent messages to your family or business partner(s)
• Coordination of claims
• Interpreter services for emergency calls
• Referral to legal counsel in the event of a serious accident
• Settlement of formalities in the event of a death
• Assistance in the event of loss or theft of identification documents
• Information regarding embassies and consulates
• Pre-travel information regarding visas and vaccines

If you, or someone acting on your behalf, does not call Medi-Assist within 24 hours of an emergency and before seeking treatment, your claim could be denied.

When calling Medi-Assist, you’ll need your government health plan number and your Pacific Blue Cross Travel Certificate number.

In general, Pacific Blue Cross will not pay medical expenses related to any medical condition that is not stable for a set period of time, either three or six months (depending on your age, coverage choices and medical conditions), before your coverage takes effect.

Pacific Blue Cross has a number of age- and condition-specific exclusions whereby medical expenses will not be paid, including:

For policyholders under age 61 or for policyholders age 61 to 75 travelling for 30 days or less with package insurance including trip cancellation and interruption:

• Consulted a physician, other than for a regular checkup
• Was hospitalized
• Was prescribed or received a new treatment
• Was prescribed or took a new medication
• Received a change in existing medication, including dosage or usage (with some exceptions)
• Any heart condition that you’ve taken nitroglycerin more than once in a seven-day period for the relief of chest pain
• Any pulmonary condition that you’ve been treated with home oxygen or corticoid therapy

For policyholders between age 61 and 75 with individual or annual insurance, or for policyholders age 61 to 75 travelling for 30 days or less with package insurance not including trip cancellation and interruption, or policyholders age 61 to 75 covered by package insurance for 31 days or more, or policyholders age 76 and above:

• Was prescribed or took a new medication for cardiovascular conditions, chronic obstructive lung conditions, neurological conditions, insulin-dependent diabetes, kidney failure or transplantation, gastrointestinal conditions or cancer or malignant tumours

There are a number of scenarios not covered by travel insurance and it’s critical to know what not to do before you make a claim. In addition to exclusions related to pre-existing conditions, the following are some of the most common situations not covered by medical travel insurance:

• Any state or condition for which you ignored the symptoms, did not follow medical advice or the recommended investigations, treatments, tests or procedures
• Pregnancy, and complications arising from pregnancy in the last eight weeks before your expected due date
• Any accident sustained while participating in a sport for pay or a sporting event where money prizes are awarded to the winners, any kind of motor vehicle competition or speed event (with exceptions), any dangerous or violent sport including (but not limited to) off-track snow sports, show jumping obstacles, grade 4 or 5 rock or mountain climbing, parachuting, gliding or hang-gliding, bungee jumping, canyoning, and any sport or activity with a high level of stress and risk involved
• Abuse of medication, alcohol or drugs, or driving a vehicle while intoxicated
• Any trip undertaken to receive medication attention
• Suicide, attempted suicide or any self-inflicted injury
• War, invasion, enemy acts, hostility between nations, civil war, rebellion, revolution, insurrection, military power or usurped power, or confiscation, nationalization, requisition or destruction of or damages to belongings due to any government or local authority
• Perpetration or attempt to perpetrate a criminal act
• Any condition resulting from a mental, nervous, psychological or psychiatric problem unless you are hospitalized due to that reason
• Any claim while in a chronic care hospital or ward, nursing home or health spa
• Any care or treatment other than that required for stabilization of the emergency medical condition
• Custodial care (assistance with basic personal care activities, such as bathing, dressing, etc.)
• Care or treatment for cosmetic purposes
• Care or treatment not covered by your government health plan
• Care or treatment provided by a podiatrist, acupuncturist, homeopath or naturopath
• Certain products, even when obtained by a prescription, including infant formula, dietary or food supplements, antacids, digestives, laxatives, antidiarrheals, decongestants and any other cold/flu medications, and all dermatological products
• Any additional medical treatment if you continue your trip as planned after a medical emergency
• Any expenses for an infectious disease or illness for which there is a travel advisory or health warning, unless you have been fully vaccinated against the infectious disease or the condition occurs in a dependent child under the age of 18 (with exceptions)
• Any expenses incurred in a region where there is an active “avoid all travel” advisory in effect by the Government of Canada

There are additional exclusions if you purchase trip cancellation and interruption coverage, baggage and/or travel accident coverage.

To be eligible for insurance with Pacific Blue Cross, the following must apply:

• You are a Canadian resident.
• You are covered under the government health plan of your province or territory for the entire duration of your trip.
• You have not been advised against travel by your physician.
• You have not been diagnosed with a terminal condition.
• You are not receiving palliative care or palliative care has not been recommended.

In addition, to purchase a Pacific Blue Cross travel plan, you must be a resident of B.C. or the Yukon.

You can file a claim online 24/7 by visiting the Pacific Blue Cross website where you can download your forms for emergency medical or trip cancellation and baggage claims. The website provides step-by-step instructions on what you need to do to submit a claim.

You will need to attach original receipts for the services or items rendered. The insurer notes that if the recipes or invoices are in another language, it’s your responsibility to translate these documents.

Pacific Blue Cross may request additional documentation, including:

• A medical certificate completed by a qualified physician providing a complete diagnosis
• Documentary evidence that a non-excluded event was the cause of your claim
• Original or electronic versions of unused transportation tickets, original invoices from the travel provider and/or official receipts for return transportation
• Receipts for land arrangements
• Proof showing the duration of a trip
• Proof of delay of checked baggage from the carrier along with receipts of purchases
• Proof of carrier delay, traffic accident or mechanical failure causing delay of return
• Death certificate
• List of lost or stolen baggage items

Pacific Blue Cross notes that digital signatures are not accepted and all completed claims forms must be mailed to the PBC Out Of Country Claims office or dropped off at the office in Burnaby, B.C.

Pacific Blue Cross will reimburse you for eligible expenses within 60 days of receiving all documentation to satisfy proof of claim.

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Insurance FAQs

Does pacific blue cross pay for medical costs upfront.

According to the travel insurance policy, in the event of an emergency, Medi-Assist will “[refer you] to an appropriate clinic or hospital and advance funds to the hospital if necessary.”

Does Pacific Blue Cross offer coverage extensions?

Yes. Your coverage is automatically extended for 24 hours starting on the final day of your trip due to a transportation delay. If you are hospitalized, your coverage is extended for the period of hospitalization and the 24-hour period after discharge. If your return home is delayed due to a medical emergency that started within 24 hours before your scheduled return date and required emergency treatment, your coverage is automatically extended for up to 72 hours.

You can also request an extension if you want to stay longer on your trip, provided you apply before the expiry date of your policy, you are still eligible for insurance and your health has not changed since your departure. Your request may be denied if you have a claim in progress or the Canadian government has a new travel advisory in effect or recommends travellers return home.

Does Pacific Blue Cross require a medical questionnaire?

Pacific Blue Cross makes the distinction between a statement of health and a medical questionnaire. A medical questionnaire is optional for travellers 61 and older with pre-existing conditions that might not otherwise be covered. Your doctor can complete the questionnaire, forward it to Pacific Blue Cross and if the medical director decides your health is stable, your pre-existing condition will be covered.

The statement of health determines what will be covered, what will be excluded and your travel insurance premium, which is calculated according to the risks inherent with age, your health and the trip length.

Does Pacific Blue Cross have any age restrictions?

There are no noted age restrictions beyond the age-specific exclusions for pre-existing conditions.

When does my coverage with Pacific Blue Cross begin?

In general, if you purchase cancellation coverage, it begins the day you buy your policy and ends the day when you make a claim or leave on your trip. Your emergency medical coverage and interruption coverage, if purchased, begins when you leave home. Your delay coverage begins once an insured risk prevents you from returning home as scheduled.

Can I get a refund with Pacific Blue Cross?

You can request a cancellation and full refund of your contract before the effective date of the contract (or the date the coverage begins) or during the 10 days following the date of purchase, unless:

• You have made or intend to make a claim.
• The contract is for a period of 10 days or less.
• The contract was purchased within 11 days before the trip and includes trip cancellation or interruption coverage.

If you return early from your trip and have not submitted or intend to submit a claim, or if no Medi-Assist case has been opened, you can request a partial refund of your premium. However, a refund of premium does not apply if:

• You are covered for a trip cancellation benefit.
• You are covered for an emergency return benefit.
• You are covered under an annual insurance contract.
• You are repatriated at the insurer’s expense.
• Your refundable premium is less than $20 after application of the $25 administration fee.

Does Pacific Blue Cross offer a free look period?

The Pacific Blue Cross travel insurance policy does not explicitly reference a free look or right to examine period, except to note that a request for a refund must be received during the 10 days following the date of purchase (with some exceptions). However, under the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada’s ( THIA ) Travel Insurance Bill of Rights and Responsibilities, travellers have the right to a no obligation purchase, whereby travel insurance providers will provide a minimum 10-day free review of the policy.

Fiona Campbell is a Staff Writer for Forbes Advisor Canada. She started her career on Bay Street, but followed her love for research, writing and a good story into journalism. She is the former editor of Bankrate Canada, and has over 20 years of experience writing for various publications, including the Globe and Mail, Financial Post Business, Advisor’s Edge, Mydoh.ca and more.

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HelloSafe » Travel Insurance » Blue Cross

Is Blue Cross Travel Insurance in Canada worth it? 2024 Review

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Information verified by   Adeline Harmant

Our articles are written by experts in their fields (finance, trading, insurance etc.) whose signatures you will see at the beginning and at the end of each article. They are also systematically reviewed and corrected before each publication, and updated regularly.

Blue Cross travel insurance is a well-established insurance provider that offers coverage for Canadian travellers. With a reputation for reliability, Blue Cross is a trusted choice for those seeking reliable travel insurance solutions.

But how much does Blue Cross travel offer cost? What does it cover? What are its pros and cons? And most importantly, is it the best choice for you? Find all this and more in our complete review of Blue Cross travel insurance Canada.

5 Key Takeaways on Blue Cross travel insurance

• Provides comprehensive coverage for Canadian travellers
• Offers various plans to suit different travel needs, including single-trip and multi-trip policies
• Covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage and other travel-related incidents
• May have limitations depending on specific situations and individual health conditions
• Compare Blue Cross with other providers using HelloSafe comparator and get free quotes

Our 2024 review on Blue Cross travel insurance

Blue Cross is a reputable provider in Canada, catering to travellers' needs by offering travel insurance plans. The company's policies cover a wide range of travel-related incidents, including medical emergencies, trip interruptions and baggage loss.

The company aims to provide peace of mind to travellers by protecting them from unexpected expenses while abroad. Its extensive coverage options and reputation in the insurance industry make it a good option for Canadian travellers seeking reliable travel insurance.

Let’s take a look at its pros and cons to further understand Blue Cross insurance Canada:

• Comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies during travel
• Options for trip cancellation and interruption coverage
• Provides coverage for lost or delayed baggage
• Multi-trip policies for frequent travellers
• Access to a vast network of healthcare providers
• Blue cross travel insurance reviews show good customer service
• Pre-existing conditions coverage may not be all-inclusive
• Some plans may have limited coverage for extreme sports or adventure activities
• High deductibles on certain policies
• Policy costs may be higher for older travellers

Before choosing Blue Cross, be sure to compare its offer with its competitors:

Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!

What is Blue Cross travel coverage in Canada?

What does blue cross travel insurance cover.

Blue Cross Travel Insurance Canada typically covers a range of incidents, such as:

• Emergency medical expenses during travel
• Trip interruption or cancellation under some unforeseen circumstances
• Baggage loss, delay, or theft
• Accidental death and dismemberment coverage
• Travel assistance services, including emergency evacuation
• Optional: Covid coverage

Below, we have outlined the features of each coverage option offered for the single-trip plan when traveling outside of Canada to assist you in selecting the most suitable option:

What is not covered by Blue Cross travel plans?

The specific exclusions may vary depending on the policy, but typical exclusions might include:

• Pre-existing medical conditions (unless specifically covered)
• Injuries or accidents related to extreme sports or risky activities
• Travel to countries or regions under travel advisories or warnings

In some cases, Blue Cross might provide coverage for stable pre-existing conditions , which are medical conditions that have been stable and controlled for a certain period before the trip. The definition of "stable" and the required stability period can vary from one policy to another. It's important for travelers with pre-existing conditions to be upfront and honest when providing their medical history during the application process. Failure to disclose pre-existing conditions accurately can lead to claims being denied later on.

Good to know

Medical or trip cancellation/interruption coverage is mandatory, while dismemberment and baggage coverage or accidental death are optional.

Is Blue Cross travel insurance available in all provinces?

Blue Cross offers coverage to travellers from all Canadian provinces, including but not limited to:

• British Columbia (Pacific blue cross travel insurance)
• Saskatchewan
• Nova Scotia
• New Brunswick
• Prince Edward Island
• Newfoundland and Labrador

For example

Blue Cross offers almost the same coverage for all provinces. For instance, Alberta Blue Cross travel coverage is similar to that of blue cross travel insurance Ontario — emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation, and assistance services. The main difference lies in the specific plans and pricing available to residents of each province.

Does Blue cross have travel insurance for seniors?

Yes, Blue Cross offers travel insurance to seniors in Canada. Its offer is designed to cater to the unique needs of older travelers. These insurance plans typically offer comprehensive coverage, including the following:

• emergency medical expenses,
• trip cancellations,
• baggage loss.

They may also provide coverage for pre-existing medical conditions , as well as extended trip durations suitable for seniors traveling abroad

There are eligibility criterias for travellers aged 55, we discuss these further down on this page. Policies are tailored to accommodate the potential health risks associated with age.

How to contact Blue Cross travel insurance?

For inquiries or assistance, individuals can contact Blue Cross through their customer service channels, which may include phone numbers, email, or online chat support available on their official website.

The Blue cross travel insurance phone number numbers may vary based on your province. In Ontario, you can call Blue Cross at:

• 416-640-3444
• 1-866-732-2583

Another easy and quick way to contact Blue Cross is to login on your Blue Cross account and get in touch with the insurer through its private online channels.

Blue Cross travel insurance for visitors to Canada

Blue Cross offers insurance for visitors to Canada to provide health travel coverage and financial protection for individuals who are visiting Canada from other countries. This type of visitor travel insurance is essential for international visitors as it helps cover medical expenses in case of unexpected illnesses or accidents while in Canada.

How much does Blue Cross travel insurance cost?

The cost of Blue Cross's travel insurance is determined by several factors, including:

• the total trip cost,
• the trip destination (whether you need travel insurance for the USA or Europe, your premium will not be the same),
• the age of the traveller,
• the chosen coverage level.

Below are some examples of the costs for Blue Cross single-trip plans available to healthy travellers based in Ontario:

For the Mexico trip example, baggage coverage can be added to the medical-only plan for an additional $19.96, making the plan total $74.22. Similarly, for the Trip Cancellation and Interruption only plan, baggage coverage can be added for $19.96, resulting in a plan total of $142.12.

Additionally, with emergency medical coverage, you have the option to add an optional deductible, which is the amount you will pay out of pocket before your coverage takes effect. The deductible options available are $250, $500, $1,500, $2,500, or $5,000.

If you want to compare Blue Cross prices with other travel insurances to see what suits you best, you could use our comparator below. Get quotes and pricing information in no time and it's completely free to use.

Are you eligible for Blue Cross travel insurance?

To qualify for insurance coverage with Blue Cross, you must meet the following criteria:

• You are a Canadian resident who is covered under a health insurance plan from the government.
• You are at least 30 days old on the departure date of your trip.

Moreover, for travellers aged 55 and over, the following conditions must not apply:

• You have received medical advice not to travel.
• You are suffering from a medical condition in a terminal stage.
• You are suffering from kidney failure and treated with dialysis.
• You have been diagnosed with or treated for metastatic cancer in the last five years.
• You have been prescribed or treated with home oxygen in the past 12 months.

Blue Cross Medical Travel Insurance refers to travel insurance policies that emphasize medical coverage, ensuring that travellers have financial protection in case of unexpected medical emergencies while travelling.

How to make a Blue Cross travel insurance claim?

To make a claim with Blue Cross travel coverage, travellers typically need to follow these steps:

• Contact Blue Cross as soon as possible to initiate the claim process.
• Provide all necessary documentation and details related to the incident.
• Complete any claim forms required by the company.
• Cooperate with the claims adjuster, if needed, to provide additional information.

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Irresponsible case handling

Please anyone trying to use this Insurance this Blue Cross or Can Assistance as you Travel Insurance DO NOT book with these. I booked in Sept 2023 travel insurances which included lost baggage and flight delays. I submitted forms online multiple times, sent emails 17th times and even mailed copies of every information they asked of. You will get a chatbot message "Case manager from CanAssistance will be in touch Case manager assigned was Franco" To save time money and stress I suggest not to book with these scam companies

Date of experience : October 09, 2023

I have been trying for over 1 year to…

I have been trying for over 1 year to have my Blue Cross claim reviewed and unfortunatly they wash their hands of dealing with their claimants and use Can Assistance as their claim adjusters. Never have I ever encountered such an inefficient and incompetent organization that is void of any communication abilities and clueless when it comes to processing a claim. All requisite info has been provided and I have been asking for an escalation of my claim. Impossible to speak with an adjuster, just front line phone operators. They deserve a negative star.

Date of experience : October 18, 2023

Scam insurance

I signed up for a foreign insurance since I was going there for a semester abroad. Paid the money i needed to easily. Unfortunatly i hurt My shoulder and was sent to pfysiotherapi. I have now tried for 6 months to get this scam of an insurance company to Even acknowledge the fact that I have sent them claims and emails severel times... And I have recieved nothing back from them.

Date of experience : April 01, 2023

Worst company to dealing waiting 55…

Worst company to dealing waiting 55 minute submitted clame talk so many times with so many people look on web tell it’s in process calling again tell me missing one day overall that is worst insurance company that dealing do not buy any health program for that garbage insurance company it’s not standing for value for custumer word word worst company

Date of experience : December 20, 2023

I subscribed for a private health…

I subscribed for a private health insurance plan tailored for newcomers. The information provided on their website is quite clear. The payment was smooth and I received all the supporting documents very quickly (something like 2 weeks). What made me give 3 stars out of 5 is that they partly ignored obligations and constraints caused by the COVID crisis and did not followup their current client base. Meaning that people paid a plan for a certain date but as they could not make it to Canada on time, they had to pay more for an extension.

Date of experience : August 07, 2020

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Blue Cross Travel Insurance Review 2022

By Arthur Dubois | Published on 21 Aug 2023

Purchasing travel insurance ensures that you have a stress-free holiday, and many travellers turn to Blue Cross travel insurance when shopping around for policies. The Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans, or Blue Cross Canada, is one of the world’s largest and most recognized insurance companies.

Founded in 1938, it has been around for a long time. It has earned its reputation as one of the best travel insurance companies in Canada, offering some of the most comprehensive and affordable plans. Blue Cross consists of 5 insurance providers, divided regionally with slight variations. They are:

• Alberta Blue Cross
• Pacific Blue Cross (for residents of British Columbia)
• Manitoba Blue Cross
• Quebec Blue Cross
• Medavie Blue Cross (for residents of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia)

Blue Cross offers individual and group benefits to its customers, as well as travel insurance. In fact, Blue Cross offers a wide range of diverse travel insurance options to suit travellers of all kinds, from snowbirds to short-stay holidaymakers, solo travellers and families.

Blue Cross travel offers insurance plans for emergency medical coverage, trip interruption or cancellation, and coverage plans for visitors to Canada. Moreover, members that have health or dental benefits , either purchased or provided through their employer, can receive a discount on their plan. 

What Does Blue Cross Travel Insurance Cover?

Blue Cross travel insurance has a wide range of plans available. You can purchase emergency medical insurance and trip interruption individually or combine both coverages into one policy. 

Emergency medical

Emergency medical travel insurance protects you from accruing massive medical bills in the event of sickness or injury on your trip. The emergency medical coverage from Blue Cross travel insurance covers the cost of a hospital stay, ambulance fees, repatriation and any cost associated with a medical follow-up in Canada for up to $5,000,000 . This coverage is affordable, and you can add your children to your plan at no additional cost.

Unlike other travel insurance providers that won’t cover you if you have any pre-existing conditions, you can still get coverage with Blue Cross travel insurance, depending on the severity of the situation. 

Trip cancellation/trip interruption

There are a few options regarding trip cancellation or trip interruption insurance. Suppose your trip is cancelled before departure (for example, due to extreme weather).

In that case, trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for non-refundable travel fees. Some plans even offer trip cancellation for personal reasons, like if there is a death in the family or unexpected pregnancy that prevents you from flying.  

Trip interruption insurance does the same if your trip is derailed once it has begun, so any extra costs are covered if your trip is cut short, even by a few days. You will be reimbursed for costs like non-refundable hotel booking fees. 

For an added cost, you can also purchase coverage for lost or delayed baggage. You can buy one of these plans separately or bundle them along with your emergency medical travel insurance. 

Single and multi-trip plans

Blue Cross travel insurance offers single and multi-trip comprehensive plans. If you only take one vacation annually, you can choose which dates you want for coverage.

On the other hand, if you’re lucky enough to take a few holidays every year, you can purchase one of Blue Cross’s multi-trip plans. 

If you travel extensively throughout the year, you can even buy a year’s worth of travel insurance, meaning that the plan covers you for any trips. 

Blue Cross travel insurance plans are comprehensive enough for travellers to pick and choose what they want to have covered. Keep in mind, however, that policies vary slightly from province to province. 

How much does Blue Cross travel insurance cost?

This depends on how thorough you want your insurance coverage to be. A plan that includes emergency medical and trip cancellation or interruption will be more expensive.  

There are also a few factors that Blue Cross takes into consideration when pricing its policies. For instance, the number of people on the plan will affect the cost of travel insurance.

Your premium is higher if your partner is part of the plan. The age of the insured is also a factor to consider. Children can receive insurance for free, but anyone over 65 typically pays more for travel insurance. 

Additionally, Blue Cross will consider where and how long you plan to travel and adjust accordingly. Travel insurance is charged daily, so the longer your trip is, the more you will pay.

Suppose you’re travelling to areas with travel advisories from the Canadian government. In that case, you can still purchase travel insurance, but you will undoubtedly pay more. 

Finally, any pre-existing medical condition will affect the cost of travel insurance. Depending on the severity and medical care needed, you can still purchase travel insurance if you have any pre-existing conditions. Still, your insurance policy will be more expensive, and Blue Cross may require you to sign a waiver.

Because of all the factors that go into determining the price of travel insurance, it’s difficult to estimate the average cost. Still, typically, Blue Cross travel insurance is very affordable.

There are cheaper plans, and some  credit cards  will automatically insure you when you use them to book your travel arrangements. In fact, the Scotiabank®* Platinum American Express® Card has $2,000,000 in emergency medical coverage. You get that plus other travel insurances.

Still, they might lack the global recognition that Blue Cross has. You might not get the same standard of coverage as you would with a Blue Cross travel insurance policy. 

Blue Cross for travellers to Canada

Blue Cross also offers insurance plans for foreign visitors to Canada at an affordable rate. This includes tourists, international students, immigrants and foreign workers who don’t have benefits from their employers. 

The plans are more expensive than the travel insurance policies offered to Canadians who travel abroad. Still, they are equally comprehensive and will cover medical fees, including hospital stays and emergency treatment, ambulance transportation costs and even emergency dental treatment. 

How to buy Blue Cross travel insurance

Remember that you need to purchase travel insurance before you leave for your trip. To purchase Blue Cross travel insurance, begin at the Blue Cross website.

Choose your province of residence and scroll to the bottom of the page. Choose what kind of coverage you would like to purchase: emergency medical, trip interruption/cancellation or coverage for visitors to Canada. 

From here, you will need to fill in the online application. You will need to provide your trip details like where you’re going, how long and how many travellers are included in the plan.

All travellers who need coverage will need to provide personal information such as their name, residence, email address, age, and any pertinent medical information. If you have any other health insurance, say, from your employer, you will be required to disclose that information.

Of course, if you already have a health insurance plan with Blue Cross, as you may qualify for a discount on your travel insurance if that’s the case. Once you’ve completed your application, Blue Cross will provide you with a quote and allow you to review your policy details before you buy.

Be sure to go over it in detail and contact a customer service representative if you have any questions. You can reach a Blue Cross at any time by calling the customer service hotline or sending an email. 

Once your plan has been confirmed, note your group and policy number. Keep it with you and easily accessible while you travel to avoid any unnecessary expenses. 

How to file a Blue Cross travel insurance claim 

Travel is full of surprises. If something requires you to use your travel insurance, filing a claim online is easy. Travel insurance claims need to be made within 1 year of services provided. 

Begin at the homepage of your province’s Blue Cross website. Select ‘file a claim’ and download the travel claim form you would like to submit. For example, select’ baggage claim form’ if you’re filing a claim for lost baggage and have purchased that protection. 

Fill in the claim form and include any receipts and other pertinent medical information. Depending on where you received medical care and the type of treatment, the healthcare provider may bill your Blue Cross travel insurance provider directly.

If not, you will be required to pay upfront and then submit a claim for reimbursement. Once an agent receives your claim, they will be in contact with you and with your medical doctor.

The settlement of your claim is as fast as possible. Sometimes, you might only take a few hours, but this is usually only if you claim coverage for something simple like a broken bone or a doctor’s appointment.

More complicated claims can take longer, and Blue Cross might ask you for more information. Hence, keeping any and all forms of documentation related to your medical care is vital until the settlement of the claim.

You or your health care provider has received payment. The settlement of most travel insurance claims is between 20 and 90 days. 

Does Blue Cross travel insurance cover Covid? 

Fully vaccinated travellers can cover Covid-19-related expenses for up to $10,000,000. Blue Cross travel insurance covers medical care, including hospitalization, due to Covid-19 regardless of your vaccination status, but there are some limitations. Circumstances such as whether you tested positive for Covid-19 90 days before your trip may affect your coverage. 

However, the specifics of Covid coverage vary slightly from province to province, so you must go over your policy with your broker in detail before your trip. For example, with Pacific Blue Cross, available to residents of British Columbia, Covid-19-related expenses might still be covered, even if you have had a recent diagnosis of Covid, if you purchase their pre-existing condition waiver.

Additionally, there is a monetary cap on how much you can claim back if you had any medical expenses related to Covid-19 during your trip. 

Blue Cross travel insurance does not cover the cost of testing or any costs you might accrue if you need to quarantine. 

Frequently asked questions about Blue Cross travel insurance

You can cancel your travel insurance and receive a full refund if you cancel your plan before the effective date. Any unused portions of your medical plan are non-refundable, regardless of the circumstances.  To cancel your plan, you must send in a request by email to your province’s Blue Cross insurance provider. The email must be sent before the plan’s effective date. Include your full name and the certificate number you provided when you bought your plan. 

Blue Cross travel insurance is an excellent option for any type of traveller. Blue Cross travel insurance provides travellers with excellent emergency medical care for up to $5,000,000, and its global network makes them a recognizable partner worldwide. Their plans are varied, comprehensive and affordable. They can even cover you for pre-existing conditions, something other travel insurance providers are reluctant to do.  You can reach a member of their customer service staff 24/7. If you already have a health or dental plan with Blue Cross, you may be eligible for a discount on your travel insurance. 

Blue Cross travel insurance policies can cover you for Trip cancellation Trip interruption Emergency medical assistance Emergency medical transportation Medications Transportation home if your medical emergency ends your trip.

Blue Cross’ Trip Protection plan will reimburse you if your trip is cancelled due to a travel ban, an illness that requires you to cancel your trip for medical reasons, unexpected death in the family, jury duty, loss of employment, pregnancy, or if your trip is cancelled due to adverse weather. 

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For Members

Find a plan, advice center, common questions, travel insurance for bc families and individuals.

Affordable travel starts with flexible protection from unexpected travel costs like medical emergencies, trip cancellation fees, baggage issues and more.

Buy Now Questions? Make a Claim

Why British Columbians choose our Travel Insurance

Free for kids.

Only Pacific Blue Cross covers kids of all families for free when you buy Emergency Medical coverage.

Pre-Existing Coverage

Only Pacific Blue Cross offers $10 Million in travel insurance with just 7 days stability of your pre-existing conditions.

COVID-19 Coverage

Pacific Blue Cross Emergency Medical Insurance includes coverage for COVID-19 when you’re fully vaccinated.

You Save as a Member

Members always save an extra 10% and our family plans cover your children for free.

Always on Call

Our emergency assistance team doesn't take a day off.  They're available 24/7 should an emergency occur while you are travelling.

Recognized around the world

One of the most recognized symbols of health care in the world.  So you’ll be covered from Toronto to Thailand.

First Payer

If your employer provides you with benefits from Pacific Blue Cross, our plans protect your lifetime maximum.

A Proud Partner

We are the travel insurance partner of Make-A-Wish, helping make dream trips come true.

Choose one of our Travel Insurance plans below to get started

Emergency Medical

Comprehensive, flexible emergency medical care coverage for British Columbians while travelling outside of BC.

Why do I need this?

Trip Protection

Peace of mind coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, airline delays and baggage loss, damage or delay.

Visitors to Canada

Emergency health coverage for tourists, workers, new immigrants and students visiting BC.

— Pacific Blue Cross — Travel Health Check

Select the destination(s) you’ll be travelling to below

Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Advisories and Vaccinations

Travel Insurance and COVID-19

Travelling is a little different right now, so we’ve put together some helpful information to help you enjoy healthy travels.

Why Do I Need Travel Insurance

Know before you go — testing, entry, borders, covid-19 coverage how it works, more questions our travel faq, a few frequently asked questions about travel insurance.

You should be aware that your provincial coverage may not pay for all health care costs you may incur while outside of the province, and the difference can be substantial. For example, B.C. pays $75 (CAD) a day for emergency in-patient hospital care, while the average cost in the U.S. often exceeds $1000 (US) a day, and can be as high as $10,000 (US) a day in intensive care. For this reason, you are strongly advised to purchase additional health insurance from a private insurer before you leave the province, whether you are going to another part of Canada or outside the country. You are advised to purchase additional coverage even if you plan to be away for only a day.

When you purchase Travel Medical insurance for one or two parents, each dependent child 21 years of age or younger who is subsequently added to your travel policy will receive free emergency medical coverage for up to $10,000,000.

An Annual plan provides the best value if you're taking two or more trips per year.

For example, at the 0-34 age group: Two 15-day Single trip plans: $86 One 15-day Annual plan: $52 Total savings with an Annual plan: $34

Plus, with an Annual plan, all of your trips under 15 days are covered within the year-- for even more savings.

Yes - Regardless of any existing conditions, we always advise members to still purchase coverage, as it will protect against all other accidents not related to that condition.

Travel insurance policies are designed to provide protection against unexpected emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption.

Depending on your age and the condition pre-existing medical conditions are covered if they are stable for a certain time period (as specified in your policy) before your policy's effective date.

It is important you review and understand any clauses or definitions in your chosen policy. Each travel insurance policy will uniquely define a pre-existing condition and there are many variations in wording. For example, policies may not cover conditions arising prior to the trip departure date:

• that are unstable
• where symptoms of an illness appeared
• that have been diagnosed or treated
• where medications have been changed

Travel policies will also specify a time frame, based on your age that relates to the evaluation of your pre-existing conditions. This time frame could be as short as 3 months but could be 1 year, 5 years or longer.

Some policies may provide coverage for your pre-existing conditions if you complete a more detailed medical questionnaire.

When purchasing our travel policy, we will evaluate pre-existing conditions for people 60 years and younger based on their health within the previous 3 months prior to the day their coverage begins. For people age 61 and over, we evaluate based on their health within 6 months prior.

It depends on the illness, its seriousness and its stability. Some illnesses are easily covered. Others require a three or six month stability period, depending on your age. Blue Cross offers the possibility of covering your illness with a medical questionnaire (available for persons aged 61 and over) filled out by your treating physician; Blue Cross’ medical team will then evaluate your condition. If authorized, you can travel worry-free: your chronic illness will also be covered.

When travelling internationally, you may be at risk for a number of diseases which are common in other parts of the world. You can learn more about Travel Vaccines on our Vaccination page .

Looking for other types of coverage?

Personal health insurance.

Our Personal Health Insurance plans providers coverage for people who are not covered by an employer group plan

Critical Illness Insurance

Our Critical Illness Insurance can help manage your ongoing financial obligations in the unfortunate scenario of recovering from a serious disease

Life Insurance

Ensure the financial health of your loved ones from one of the most respected Life Insurance brands in Canada

Plan Details

All of our plans include:

• Up to $10 million of emergency medical care
• 24/7 access to a team of professionals to contact you with local resources
• Direct Pay — We will pay any providers directly.
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions — As long as your pre-existing condition meets a minimum stability period, you can receive full protection.

Plan Highlights

• Emergency medical expenses
• Ambulance and taxi fees
• Repatriation costs
• Transportation to visit the covered person
• Medical Follow-up in Canada
• Subsistence allowance

Add-on Options

You can add the following individual benefits to your plan or choose a package and save:

• Trip Cancellation or Interruption
• Emergency Return
• Air-Flight Accicent
• Baggage loss, delay or damage
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment

Call us if an emergency strikes

If you do experience an unexpected emergency while travelling, we are here to help.

During your trip, you can call our   Medi-Assist   service to determine your level of coverage and receive help:

• In Canada or the U.S., call toll-free:   1-888-699-9333
• Outside of Canada or the U.S. or where toll-free is unavailable, please call collect to   1-604-419-4487   and we will pay for the call.

Claims Process

Out-of-Province Emergency Medical Claims  — Four simple steps

Trip Cancellation / Baggage Claim Form — Form for claiming Trip Cancellations or Lost Baggage [pdf]

Visitors to Canada Travel Plan Claim Form — Form for claiming against a Visitors to Canada Travel Plan contract [pdf]

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Medical Insurance provides $10,000,000 in coverage for costs related to emergency medical care resulting from an accident or sudden illness while travelling outside British Columbia. An Annual plan provides the best value for snowbirds, frequent travellers and cross-border hoppers who make multiple trips outside BC each year. Plan coverage includes:

In addition to paying for you to return to your province or residence to receive immediate medical attention*, we will arrange to have your vehicle returned, your pet returned and your baggage returned. Should an insured person pass away, we cover the cost of repatriating the deceased.

*Requires the authorization of the attending physician and CanAssistance.

Trip Protection Options

You can add the following individual benefits to your plan, buy them separately, or choose a package and save:

Pacific Blue Cross Visitors to Canada Insurance provides coverage for costs related to emergency medical care resulting from an accident or sudden illness while visiting British Columbia. Plan coverage includes:

Hospitalization, Medical and Paramedical Expenses

Transportation expenses.

The following services must be approved and planned by Medi-Assist.

We’ve got you covered, even when travel advisories change

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Medical plans contain $10M in COVID-19 coverage for fully vaccinated travellers, no matter the travel advisory. So rest assured, your plan will continue to provide the protection you need in emergency medical situations, even if and when Canadian government advisories change. If you aren’t fully vaccinated, you can learn more about how changing travel advisories may impact your coverage in our Frequently Asked Questions .

Speak to someone to learn more about one of our TRAVEL insurance products

Contact us about your existing Pacific Blue Cross coverage or products

I’d like more information on your Travel Plans

Travel insurance: all you need to know

Home > Travel insurance: all you need to know

Got travel on your mind? For some, that means booking a tropical vacation. For others, it means embarking on a Canadian road trip.

Whatever your situation may be, it’s important to know what travel coverage you have and what add-ons you may need to purchase.

Nothing beats the peace of mind of knowing you’re protected if the unexpected happens while travelling. Common travel coverage options and add-ons include the following:

• Emergency medical care
• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Flight delay service

Baggage loss coverage

Accidental death and dismemberment.

• Pandemic coverage

Step 1: review your current coverage

Many employer-sponsored and personal benefit plans include emergency travel coverage. However, these plans often only cover you for trips up to a certain number of days, such as 10 or 30 days per trip, and usually don’t include things like trip cancellation and interruption insurance or coverage for lost baggage. By understanding what travel coverage is included in your current plan, you can determine you may need to add on to enjoy your vacation worry free.

Not covered for emergency travel care through an existing plan?

Travel insurance keeps you protected from the financial costs of unexpected injuries and illnesses when travelling. Emergency medical care covers things like hospital services, prescription drugs, ambulance, emergency travel assistance, medical evacuation, and more. Insurance providers typically offer travel insurance for single-trip and multi-trip plans.

Check out our Emergency Medical Coverage.

Travelling within Canada?

Any travel within Canada outside of your province of residence counts towards the trip days covered by your plan.

The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan provides limited coverage outside of Alberta. Without proper travel coverage, you could be left paying out-of-pocket for medical expenses. Whether you’re taking a road trip to a neighbouring province or flying across the country, make sure you have coverage for travel within Canada.

Learn more about our coverage for travel within Canada.

Step 2: find out what additional coverage you need

Need extra coverage to top up your existing insurance? Add-ons are additional travel products available to purchase that ensure you are fully covered for the entire duration of your trip. Below are some add-ons to consider for your next trip.

Trip cancellation and interruption insurance

Trip cancellation happens when an eligible and unexpected reason forces you to have to cancel your trip—a costly ordeal if you don’t have trip cancellation insurance. This type of insurance covers prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses like airfare or hotel deposits and gives you access to flight delay service at no extra cost.

Trip interruption occurs when you’re already on your trip and you must return home, due to something like a family emergency. In this case, coverage is unlimited and includes access to flight delay service at no extra cost.

Learn more about our Trip Cancellation or Interruption coverage.

Flight delay coverage

Whether due to bad weather, maintenance issues or busy air traffic, a delayed flight can leave you waiting at the airport for hours. A sudden pause in your journey means paying for additional meals or accommodation—expenses you didn’t plan for.

Learn more about our Flight Delay Service , which is included in all our travel plans.

Baggage loss coverage provides you with coverage for lost, stolen or damaged items; delayed baggage; and lost or stolen travel documents like passports.

Learn more about our baggage loss coverage.

Pandemic protection

Pandemic coverage reimburses you for certain expenses if you must cancel or interrupt your trip due to a pandemic. This can include things like accommodation cancellations or extensions, flight changes or cancellations, meals, transportation due to a diagnosis, positive screening test or contact tracing.

Learn more about our Optional Protection: Pandemic coverage.

Top-up coverage

If your trip is longer than the number of days covered by your existing plan, you can purchase coverage for the additional days you will be away.

Learn more about our Top-Up Insurance , which extends your period of coverage provided by us or another insurance company.

While a serious, life-changing accident that results in death is rare while travelling, it can happen—and the costs can be significant.

Learn more our Accidental Death and Dismemberment coverage.

Step 3: purchase your add-ons

Once you know what coverage you have, you can add on or top up with what you’re missing. Visit our website to complete a quote and purchase your insurance online in minutes.

Enjoy your trip!

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My wife and I are going on a cruise in December. We are 67 and 66. Can we get travel insurance through Blue Cross. If so, how much?

Hi Roy. We’re happy to help. To get a quote or sign up, you can visit our website at https://www.ab.bluecross.ca/plans/travel/travel-insurance-coverage.php

Thank you for the provided information. I’m planning on visiting Mexico this winter. Do you have any specific advice for me? I’m kind of scared of being kidnapped.

Travel insurance is often overlooked, but it’s a vital part of travel planning. It’s great to see an article covering the essentials of travel insurance. It’s a valuable resource for travelers to make informed choices and stay safe during their journeys.

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We begin by acknowledging that we are on traditional lands, referred to as Treaty 6, Treaty 7 and Treaty 8 territory, and all the people here are beneficiaries of these peace and friendship treaties.

This territory is the home for many Indigenous Peoples, including the Blackfoot, Cree, Dene, Saulteaux, Ojibwe, Stoney Nakota Sioux, and Tsuut’ina peoples, and the Métis Nation of Alberta and the Métis Settlements.

We respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we dedicate ourselves to moving forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

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Best travel insurance in Canada

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You’ve packed your bags, mapped your itinerary, and set your “out of office” message – it’s vacation time! But what about travel insurance?

According to a 2019 study by the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada, 13% of Canadians aren’t sure if they have travel insurance before they go on vacation. Of those who have bought insurance, 17% don’t know what their policy covers.

As a professional travel writer, I find this rather alarming. Canadian health insurance is not valid outside Canada, and your provincial or territorial health plan may not cover all the costs even if you’re travelling domestically. If you suffer an accident or get sick abroad, unexpected medical bills can bankrupt you. It’s why the Canadian government  advises all travellers to buy travel insurance , and I never leave the country without it. Whether you’re taking a two-week trip or a gap year abroad, every one needs the best travel insurance in Canada, regardless of age, health status, destination, or length of vacation.

World Nomads: Best for thrill seekers

Designed for adrenaline lovers with wanderlust, World Nomads insures a long list of adventure sports, activities and volunteer/work experiences, as well as sporting equipment delay/loss/theft. You also get access to a 24/7 hotline that provides information that adventure travellers may need: weather reports and travel advisories, assistance locating the nearest trail, and finding a gear shop.

The standard policy covers emergency medical expenses up to $5 million, emergency dental, trip cancellation/interruption/delay, baggage delays/theft/damage, and more. The downside: you must be under 66 years of age to qualify.

CAA Travel Insurance: Best for families

A long-trusted Canadian institution, CAA travel Insurance offers flexible travel plans to suit every type of traveller and vacation, but their policies are particularly great for families. Their stand-alone emergency medical policy of up to $5 million in health coverage is extremely comprehensive, even including medical repatriation, emergency dental, and reimbursements for pet care and kenneling.

The Vacation Package Plan provides full cancellation/interruption insurance – ideal for prepaid, all-inclusive vacation packages – as well as family transportation and escort of children during emergencies. Anyone can buy CAA travel insurance, but members get a 10% discount.

CAA’s emergency medical plans also now include coverage for COVID-19-related illnesses for vaccinated customers. Coverage is up to $2.5 million if partially vaccinated and up to $5 million if fully vaccinated.

Blue Cross: Best for seniors and retirees

Blue Cross has been around for more than 70 years, and 1 in 4 Canadians utilize its travel insurance. Blue Cross’s emergency medical covers up to $5 million. It has special “snowbird” travel insurance packages designed for Canadians who head to warmer climates each year, making Blue Cross ideal for retirees.

Part of the package is the recently launched Serenity Service. This free perk provides a range of benefits if your flight is delayed, including access to an airport lounge or even a hotel room (depending on the length of the delay). Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered.

Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance: Best for budget travellers

Starting at only $1.36 a day, Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance offers very affordable travel insurance packages, and it’s personally been my “go-to” travel policy for years. Yes, it’s geared toward students (e.g., you can swap your travel dates at no charge due to an exam schedule conflict), but anyone between 15 and 50 years of age can purchase a policy.

The standard package includes hospital and medical up to $1 million, dental care, air ambulance evacuation, flight accident, accidental death or dismemberment, and trip interruption/cancellation insurance. Adventure and extreme sports are also covered.

Manulife CoverMe: Best for Canadians with pre-existing medical conditions

Manulife CoverMe offers highly comprehensive Canadian travel insurance packages for those travelling as a family, a visitor to Canada, or a student. You also get access to the TravelAid mobile app, which provides directions to the nearest medical facility and local emergency telephone numbers.

However, the stand-out feature is arguably TravelEase – a special policy designed to cover fully disclosed medical conditions. For travellers with pre-existing conditions, it insures a bunch of expenses for health services and transportation. It provides up to $10 million in emergency medical benefits – a unicorn in the travel insurance world.

Medipac Travel Insurance: Best for emergency medical assistance

Medipac is one of the only travel insurance companies out there that is staffed by their own team of trained medical professionals, via their Medipac Assistance hotline. Medipac’s medical professionals are your first point of contact in an emergency medical situation. This service is also helpful for dealing with foreign medical systems and helping to prevent unnecessary expenses when dealing with a large deductible.

Medipac offers several competitive features for their travel insurance plans, including no age limits, a claim-free discount, and a 90-day stability period for most pre-existing conditions. If your pre-existing medical condition isn’t covered by a standard Medipac insurance plan, Medipac also offers personalized, underwritten insurance policies to help you meet your needs.

Medipac is offering a 5% Vaccine Discount to clients who have received a minimum of one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, as well as the new MedipacMAX option. This COVID insurance option provides maximum coverage of up to $5 million USD for COVID-19, in addition to its other benefits.

Allianz Travel Insurance: Best for frequent travellers

Touted as a world leader in the Canadian travel insurance and assistance industry, Allianz Travel Insurance is a major provider of travel insurance, corporate assistance, and concierge services. It seeks to help its customers find solutions to various travel-related problems. Allianz Travel has partnered with many reputable companies, including travel agencies, airlines, resorts, websites, event ticket brokers, corporations, universities, and credit card companies.

Allianz Travel Insurance is a great choice for anyone looking for travel insurance. Its single-trip plans are perfect for those leaving home and visiting another destination (or destinations) before going back home. Its parent company, Allianz Global Assistance, has five plans to choose from, all offering different levels of protection and coverage.

Allianz Travel Insurance’s annual/multi-trip plans are perfect for both personal and professional travelers who take multiple trips in a year. It offers four distinct options to choose from.

Will my provincial insurance be valid overseas?

No! If you get sick or injured overseas, the Canadian government will not cough up a dime to cover your medical costs. Here are the sobering facts:

• Canadian public health insurance is not valid outside of Canada.
• Foreign hospitals can be extremely expensive and may demand payment before treating you.
• The Canadian government will not pay a Canadian’s medical bills for an illness or accident suffered abroad. You’re on the hook for footing the bill!

Will my provincial insurance work in another province/territory?

Flash your valid provincial health card in another part of Canada, and you’ll likely be covered for some of the same services insured by your home provincial plan. This is because the provinces and territories (except Quebec) signed an agreement whereby the host province foots the bill for any medically necessary health care services and gets reimbursed by the home province later.

However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of the woods. Depending on your destination, a slew of other services may not be covered, such as an ambulance, hospital transfer, prescription drugs, transportation back to your home province, and procedures not currently approved by your home plan.

Plus, since Quebec wasn’t a signatory to the interprovincial billing agreement, you’ll likely be charged for any medical bills incurred there. For this reason, it’s recommended that you buy extra travel insurance (or verify your  credit card’s travel insurance coverage ) to cover any uninsured health care services that may crop up during your trip.

What does the best travel insurance in Canada cover?

Every travel insurance policy is different and what’s covered depends on how much you’re willing to pay for coverage. Typical medical services that you can expect to be covered include:

• Emergency hospital and medical costs
• Ambulance and air ambulance costs
• Outpatient services
• Physician and laboratory costs
• Prescription drugs
• Direct payment to the hospitals and doctors caring for you
• Assistance with bringing a family member to your bedside
• Air ambulance or commercial repatriation home
• Return of your vehicle if you are ill and have to come home

Additional benefits may include:

• Trip cancellation for non-refundable monetary losses
• Trip interruption
• Baggage loss, rental car damage, out-of-pocket expenses
• Accidental death and dismemberment

How much coverage do I need?

Securing a policy with a minimum of $1M maximum payable is a safe bet. But don’t just look at the numbers when choosing a policy – read the fine print. Every insurer has a list of situations in which coverage is not provided, otherwise known as “exclusions.” Check whether your provider includes coverage or has provisions for the following:

• Pre-existing medical conditions: According to the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers, a pre-existing condition is “something that happened (or started to happen) before you were insured.” Some policies may cover claims relating to pre-existing conditions that are “stable and controlled,” but read the definitions carefully. If you don’t declare a condition, the entire policy could be invalidated!
• Medical evacuation: Ensure the policy covers medical evacuation to the nearest hospital and/or to Canada and the costs of a medical escort to accompany you to your final destination.
• Repatriation in case of death: On the grim side, ensure that your plan covers the preparation and return of your remains to Canada.
• Adventurous Activities: If you plan on engaging in “high-risk” activities on your trip, you may need to shell out extra dough for a more comprehensive plan. Many policies don’t cover “risky” activities, such as skiing or snowboarding “out of bounds,” skydiving, scuba diving, white-water rafting, mountaineering, or participation in any rodeo activity. To cover your bases, ask questions and get specifics before purchasing a policy.

You may have to pay more to have these things included, but a few extra bucks may be worth it for peace of mind.

Should I buy “a la carte” travel insurance or get a travel credit card with free insurance?

A credit card with travel insurance is always a good thing to carry in your wallet. The  best travel credit cards in Canada  usually cover everything from emergency medical costs to trip cancellation/interruption to flight delay to rental car insurance, which could save you a wad of cash.

The  Scotiabank Gold American Express ® Card  has saved my butt a few times, and I’ve filed several travel-related claims through my card. I cancelled my trip to Portugal a few years ago due to a death in the family, and I got a full refund on my hotel deposit and flights for myself, my husband, and my baby. It totally justified the $120 annual fee.

That being said, don’t rely on your credit card to take care of all your travel insurance needs. It usually includes a basic policy, meaning it offers low (or no!) travel medical insurance as part of the package. Like any travel insurance company policy, you’ve really got to read the fine print and understand the conditions of your policy to avoid sticky situations.

For instance, the Scotiabank Gold American Express ® Card requires a cardholder to have charged at least 75% of trip expenses to make a trip cancellation/interruption insurance claim. So if you book an all-inclusive vacation for $5,000 and then cancel due to illness, at least $3,750 must have been charged onto your AMEX to qualify for a claim. If you didn’t do that, you’re out of luck.

Can I still purchase insurance if i’ve already started my vacation?

The short answer: most insurance providers won’t cover you after your departure date. However, a handful of insurers (such as World Nomads) will allow you to purchase a policy while already overseas. Just know that it can come with sky-high costs and/or conditions: World Nomads has a 48-hour waiting period before coverage kicks in. The bottom line? It’s always best to buy travel insurance before leaving the country.

Can I get travel insurance for part of a trip?

Some plans offer insurance coverage options that will allow you to customize your coverage, but you’ll have to research to find one that works for your unique circumstances. Alternatively, you could take out an insurance policy for each destination and/or segment of your trip.

For instance, you could get a World Nomads policy for the two weeks you’re scuba diving in Australia, followed by a basic Travel CUTS Bon Voyage insurance to cover a month-long trip to Europe. However, when you buy Canadian travel insurance, you must select a trip start and end date – meaning you must know the exact dates for travelling to those places.

Should I carry a printout of my policy with me at all times?

I recommend carrying the travel insurance card in your wallet and locking it up in the hotel safe with other important travel documents like my passport. But don’t rely totally on paper: Wallets get lost or stolen, luggage can be delayed or M.I.A., and papers are easy to misplace when you’re on the road. My advice is to send a copy of the policy to your email and save it on your iCloud or another storage system that can be accessed anywhere, anytime.

Recommended reads

• What’s the Added Value of a Credit Card with Travel Insurance?
• The Best Travel Rewards Programs in Canada
• Aeroplan vs. AIR MILES vs. Avion

About our author

Lisa Jackson is a freelance personal finance and travel journalist, editor, and blogger who contributes to various online and print media outlets in Canada and abroad, including The Globe & Mail, Toronto Star, Islands Magazine, Fodors, BRIDES, Huffington Post Canada, CAA Magazine, The Food Network, West Jet Magazine, NUVO Magazine, and many others. When she's not writing from her home office, she's busy globe-trotting to new destinations in search of her next story.

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See what customers say about Blue Cross Canada.

Explore your options

Blue Cross Canada, or The Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans (CABCP) is comprised of 7 regional not-for-profit health and travel insurance providers, and offers group coverage plans for businesses and supplemental plans for individuals with needs not covered by private or Canadian universal health coverage.

Company Overview

• Blue Cross Canada Advantages

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Travel insurance, health insurance.

• Blue Cross Canada by Province

Blue Cross Canada Reviews

Blue cross canada, need an insurance quote.

Let Mitch Insurance Brokers do the comparison shopping for you – with quotes from over 40 insurance companies in Ontario. Speak with a broker today: 1-800-731-2228

Blue Cross Insurance offers group benefit plans that include benefit packages for life and accidental death coverage, drug and other health services needs and the establishment of group Health Spending Accounts.

The company also provides individual clients with personal health coverage and a wide range of travel insurance plans, ensuring that everyone in Ontario has access to risk coverage. This has made them a trusted name in the business, as has their commitment to working with the brokers that facilitate transactions between the company and their clients.

Canadians rely on Blue Cross for the following:

• Travel insurance plans with a wide variety of options for individuals
• Group plans for businesses and organizations that are simple to build as well as affordable
• Personal health insurance that allows clients to receive services not covered by the OHIP (Ontario’s public health care provider)

Advantages of Blue Cross Insurance

Blue Cross offers a range of plans for most budgets, making it an accessible company for a wide range of Canadians in Ontario. It also boasts a number of service that position the company as a customer-first insurance provider, like assistance service exclusives for members and a dedicated helpline for customer complaint mediation.

Backing up this mission is Blue Cross’s commitment to providing coverage to areas that clients may not get coverage through Ontario’s public health plans or a person’s insurance through their place of employment. The company’s stated mission is to provide customers the opportunity to get coverage for anything health-related. The advantages of using a plan from Blue Cross include:

• A huge list of available coverage options for travelers : Blue Cross aims to make any type of traveler able to travel with the peace of mind that comes with knowing they’re set if anything unpredictable crops up. This means that travelers can choose from a list that includes coverage for lost baggage, canceled flights and much more without spending too much on insurance.
• Customizable group and individual policy options : Group plans are not always as easy to build and provide risk protection for the services that the group actually needs as they are with Blue Cross Insurance. The pick-and-mix set-up of the company’s available group benefit packages are friendly to employers and employees alike. In addition, while many insurers focus on group insurance or individual coverage, Blue Cross does a great job offering benefits for both.
• The company’s personal insurance plans (travel and health) are budget-friendly : Blue Cross really takes the fact to heart that their personal insurance policies are often used to supplement other plans. They offer affordable choices as to the extent of the additional travel or health insurance coverage that a person wants, without making it cost-prohibitive.

Blue Cross Insurance Products

Blue Cross Insurance provides group plans for businesses, as well as travel and health insurance policies for individuals who need them. Coverage varies by province, so please refer to Blue Cross plans by region for detailed information.

Group Insurance Options

Blue Cross Insurance provide a wide range of ways to build a group plan that works for the members of a business or organization (i.e. “the group”).

Master policies can include:

• Basic life insurance
• Dependent life insurance for families of the group member
• Coverage and financial protection for critical illness
• Coverage for accidental death and dismemberment
• Group disability

Group health is where Blue Cross Insurance shines, offering coverage in the following areas:

• Extended health care benefits specifically for group members with chronic illnesses
• inConfidence , a program that provides direct access to critical health counseling services 24/7 for employees and their families
• My Good Health , a digital portal for group members to compile and access their health information as well as that of their family members
• Second Opinion , a program where group members in need can have their cases reviewed by medical specialists in a given field

All this is in addition to the health coverage you’d expect out of a group health plan, as well as an extensive benefits package for prescription costs.

One area where Blue Cross Insurance proves to be unique is in its options for travelers:

• Snowbirds traveling only during winter
• A single trip
• Short-stay frequent travelers
• Visitors to Canada
• Extended-stay frequent travelers
• Students studying abroad
• Canadians traveling within Canadian territory
• Global Affairs Canada employees

With so many different types of travelers having plans targeted specifically at them, Blue Cross Insurance gives travelers a variety of options to find benefits that fit their needs. Travelers are insured for up to 5 million dollars with Blue Cross Travel Insurance.

Because health insurance for an individual through Blue Cross is meant to target coverage options and populations not covered by standard plans—either through OHIP or through a separate group plan, the company focuses on the following:

• People who are Self-employed
• Small business employees
• People without access to group benefits
• Recent immigrants
• Students and recent graduates
• Retired or planning retirement

Government Plans

Blue Cross also advertises group plans tailored to the needs of government employees and the members of federal organization, as a federal partner since the company was founded in 1943.

Blue Cross Insurance by Province

• Pacific Blue Cross: Vancouver, British Columbia – 1 888-275-4672
• Alberta Blue Cross: Edmonton, Alberta – 1 800 661-6995
• Saskatchewan Blue Cross: Saskatoon, Saskatoon – 1 800 667-6853
• Manitoba Blue Cross: Winnipeg, Manitoba – Toll-free: 1 800 873-2583
• Ontario Blue Cross (Individual Coverage): Etobicoke, Ontario, 1 866 732-2583
• Medavie Blue Cross (Group Coverage – Ontario): Etobicoke, Ontario – 1 800 355-9133
• Quebec Blue Cross (Individual Coverage): Montreal, Quebec – 1 877 909-7686
• Medavie Blue Cross (Group Coverage – Quebec): Montreal, Quebec – 1 888 588-1212
• Medavie Blue Cross (Atlantic Canada): Moncton, New Brunswick – 1 800 667-4511

WORST HEALTH Insurance Company in Canada!!

I’ve been with Four Health Insurance Companies over my lifetime, depending on who I worked for. unfortunately being self employed I needed to save money, my fifth choice was BLUE CROSS because they were the lowest priced in the insurance company. There is a reason they’re cheaper, they’re HORRIBLE!! Claims are “Always” Denied, you have to phone to find out why, then they try to blame you the client for their errors. Management gives you nothing but lip service, if they even call you back! 10-15 Business Days for a Claim, the Answer which is always No after waiting that long and until you call them back asking why after they said yes. They (Blue Cross) downright LIES to you. They tell you you’re 100% covered (In Writing No Less) only to deny your claim, without any real; given reason. ALWAYS, not once, not twice, not three times, but ALWAYS! Health Insurance Companies aren’t perfect, but BLUE CROSS is the WORST of the WORST!! I honestly don’t know how they’re still in business??

This is company is FRAUD

This is company is FRAUD AND SCAM! THEY WILL NOT COVER YOUR BILLS

Do not get this insurance

biggest mistake of my life. NOT EVEN A 1 STAR

Amazing client service from Stephen P. and Blue Cross

I cannot speak highly enough about my experience with Stephen P. from Blue Cross: amazingly helpful, proactive, thorough, and compassionate. He went over and above in offering advice and providing help. He made sure the the issue was resolved and took the time to make certain that those issues were completely addressed. Amazing client service. Well done, Stephen and Blue Cross.

Worst Experience

Just a fraud.

Truly the worst experience ever

Waited on hold for over 3 hours to make a claim and still didn’t get through. They won’t do anything over email. Pathetic.

worst insurance company

No contact numbers email. When you do finally get anyone on the line there not interested in talking to you any way. I work for Sofina foods and they switched from Sunlife insurance to Blue Cross because it’s cheaper for them. Sunlife was professional and accountable. Blue cross is low budget crap company.

Customer service (or lack thereof) is horrendous. I wanted some help dealing with stress and sought out help, but Bluecross doesn’t cover counseling and you are left in the lurch. I will never seek out mental health care again and I WISH MY UNION would ditch Bluecross and find another insurer.

I receive health insurance through my B.C. municipal pension plan. Customer service is appalling as is their app. They go out of their way to make the claims process as difficult as possible. If you have the option of choosing a different insurance you would be well advised to avoid Pacific Blue Cross. They are the WORST.

Good service. Negative reviews are because people dont read their contracts lol Read the contract before filing a stupid claim. Dont get shocked when you get denied. Be smart

Travel Insurance Rate Sky Rockets !!

No changes in medical condition, 66 now, as opposed to 65, and rates have more than doubled over last year !!! Online quote with full medical disclosure. Unable to speak to a Rep as “all lines are busy” all day long, starting at 8am. Do they still have Reps that actually answer the phone? Going to another provider.

Pacific Blue Cross: Not for Diabetics, get to know if they cover ur meds first

#PacificBlueCross do not support #Diabetic lifesaving meds like #Insulin [ #Novarpid #Basalgar ] 2. Their app and #LondonDrugs informs you to submit doctor note for #FreeStyleLibre sensor – but when you contact frontdesk after 2- 3 weeks , they inform you to get another document signed by doctor- thus you need to have another appointment with ur doc and request him to sign one more – then send doc by mail only.

Above all – if you want to get out of plan and exclusive services they offer – you can not. You are informed that you are trapped for 3 months locking period – you have to pay for nothing for 3 months.

DO NOT BUY HEALTH POLICY – They looks sweet sound sweet but u are getting trapped.

Blue cross is not worth it

We apparently have one of Blue Cross best plans and they don’t even cover 50% of a basic eye exam ! They also do not cover ANY counselling fees which in 2022 that seems awful !

So difficult to get any information about your policy and terrible if you have any questions or problems. Would not recommend this company to anyone. I only had it because that it is what we had through work.

The worst … dont buy blue cross at all

DO NOT USE BLUECROSS

Their strategy is to simply wear you out, they will almost never take your claim unless they ask for a bunch of overly technical stuff. Once you get it then good luck because they take forever to answer, process and reimburse. If you don’t follow up nothing gets done, they’re obviously playing the odds that you will give up. Shame on you blue cross !

Useless health insurance plan

Stay away if you have the choice. Almost ZERO coverage. Do not waste your hard earned money.

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Insurance is a scam

I was trying to find out the details of the trip interruption/travel insurance they offer only to find bullet point highlights of what they offer. Nowhere on their website can you find what’s included and what’s excluded until after you buy the policy. I stupidly bought the policy, received the booklet and found out that if your airlines, hotel, condo or where ever you stay offers a credit then they don’t pay out. Tried to cancel it after phoning. First time no answer, second time, let me check with may manager and phone you back. No return call. Finally on the third attempt they guy says the manager says no refund. Apparently you check a box that says no refund before buying it.

Total scam. We won’t tell you what we exclude until after you buy the product which by the way has no refund. F off!

Do their best to not cover anything

They will find a reason to not cover everything. Doctors note required for them to pay less than 50% of services like massage therapy, Physio, Acupuncture, etc. Complete joke. With all the terrible reviews on here it is sad that they don’t make any changes to their piss poor policies.

What a nightmare

I needed to make a change my policy which hadn’t been activated yet The customer service agent was lovely but totally incompetent .After 1 1/2 hours she sent me the same thing as I had before. Back on the phone on hold for another 20 minutes The new agent sorted it out quickly but will never use them again horrendous

Buy another insurance

They’re useless, it’s a scam-like operation. I plan on getting something else as my main medical insurance.

Don’t buy from BlueCross

I am a customer not by choice but by group plan. Their customer service is 0 – NOBODY answers the calls (for over the week calling at different times).There is NOBODY! If you have a problem with insurance – too bad because nobody will help you.

Won’t cover prescribed medication

Why the hell do I pay premiums if you can’t even cover my prescriptions when I need them. An absolute joke and a scam. Shame on you.

WORST Insurance Company ever…DONT USE!

I went to Florida last November and during, had a minor accident while riding a scooter. Had sprains, cuts and abrasions requiring stitches and emergency treatment. I refused an ambulance, x-rays and crutches as I didn’t feel they were necessary and my total hospital bill was $1800 USD which i paid. I submitted the claim in January of 2021 and its now the end of June where the claims people contradict themselves and continue to stall. Totally ridiculous and horrible treatment from this company who are notorious for claims payment avoidance (I wish I read these reviews before!). DO NOT USE THESE AbSOLUTE AWFUL insurance provider who hides behind a relatively good reputation US division.

Don’t buy Blue Cross the worst insurance

I am an international student. Most international students are compelled to pay the insurance because it’s tied to tuition fees. When you really need to use the coverage, you will find it hardly cover the things you need. The list of coverage says it covers fees related to COVID-19, but it even don’t cover serum test for COVID-19. The most disgusting thing is, when international students leave Canada due to COVID-19, this insurance release some regulations which prevent you to opt out of this insurance. They require you to provide some documents you can’t easily get. It’s ridiculous that you are not in Canada, but you have to pay the insurance in Canada. They force you to buy a useless insurance policy. They are robbers

Worst insurance provider out there

They put my March claim ‘on hold’ for no reason. While on hold they transferred my health care spending money to a place where I can’t access it for said claim. Theiving buggers. I pay for these benefits yet they make them impossible to use. Saved up 2 yrs of health care spending for my glasses only to have them sneakily transfer it elsewhere so I can’t access it now. Even my employer didn’t know they backdated claims 3 months to sneak in this change. They even admitted it but refused to correct their error. Now I have to pay the cost out of pocket on benefits I was covered for. Horrendous company dishonest and shady and sneaky. Do not give them your money. You will never be able to use your own benefits.

I cannot say enough bad things about this company. They refuse to be accountable for their mistakes and when they finally realize they made the error, they refuse to fix the problem……oops sorry you’re screwed!! (not really soory

This is the absolute worst insurance company I have dealt with in my entire life. Their customer service is lousy and it takes them almost a month to process a claim for glasses that has all paperwork and has been submitted electronically. Run don’t walk away from them!!!

Do not use Vancouver bluecross

This place is a joke. I have been dealing with them since October and it has been a nightmare! From lost paperwork to no one answering their phones and then it take 2 weeks to get a call back. Tried emails telephone it does matter they just don’t give a shit. I get better customer service from a 12 year old working at McDonald’s. Please do yourself a favor and spend your money where people actually care about you. Shame on them for being so ignorant to the people who pay the it wage.

Absolute Garbage.

I am thoroughly appalled at Bluecross customer services. This horrifically disorganized company is honestly garbage and a complete waste of anyones investment. If you can find benefits with any other provider, anything is better then Bluecross. Any time you have an issue and need to speak with someone, you’ll have 5 different reps replying in one email chain, all of which just read off of a script to disuade you from getting any touch with anyone who has actual authority to help you with your situation. I’m been trying for years to get more information about my dental coverage, why it’s so bad and what else can I do, and just get so frustrated I end up giving up half way through the process because nobody has an interest in actually helping you with your issue, they just want your money and for you to fuck off. The same thing goes for some RMT claims I’ve been trying to deal with – just this morning I was transferred to 6 different representatives, passing me back and forth between customer services and account managers and not one person would take a proper second to help me with my issue. I ended up finally breaking one of them into emailing a higher up authority figure for assistance, only after a 10 minute push and pull conversation and me having to continuously calm them down from losing their temper. What kind of customer service does this insurance provider honestly care to give? Onviously they have a high turn over and a lot of angry customers because their whole call centre cannot make any important changes and no one actually knows what to do when someone stands strong in their desires to fix their plan. Bluecross is trash, go to literally any other provider if you have the option.

Doesn’t seem to care.

I called customer service to confirm my claim cheques were sent asap, after Blue Cross sent them to the incorrect previous address. I was asking questions trying to get to the bottom of it, and the rep was not having it. She told me she couldn’t tell me why and then hung up on me.

The year is 2021 and Blue Cross doesn’t do direct deposit. Get with the times and stop destroying the planet in order to send your cheques in the mail.

Worst customer service

Me and my family are on a portability plan with AB Bluecross and I called them to see if I could open an individual policy for my son. The female staff kept asking questions and doubtful about my son and asked “What is the problem with your son?”. I was shocked to hear that question & felt like I am trying to coverup something about my son from Bluecross. I will never ever go to AB Blue cross, instead will go to other insurers if I have to as there is nothing to hide anything from them. I am thinking of cancelling my portability plan with AB Blue cross.

Stay away from Medavie Bluecross!

My company moved from Greatwest life (Canada Life) to Medavie Blue cross last year.. and it was a huge mistake!! Medavie is soooooo super complicated and confusing you cant even imagine.. i was with Canada life for 6 years and never had any issue either its dental, vision, massage or drugs.. but these Medavie guys are only there to eat our money every month but they literally cry if we claim anything.. they make thing sooo difficult that you cant even say anything, it takes you weeks to understand what they actually meant.. They make sure you get ripped really good for whatever you claim… they are crooks.. stay away from them!!

Blue Cross (Canada – ONT) routinely rips-off health service providers by not paying pre-approved claims

I have provided health services to the local Military and Veteran community for years. These services were all pre-approved including the number of treatments and cost, and were directly billed to Blue Cross. Over the years, many claims remained unpaid despite extreme efforts to follow-up with them, sort out THEIR administrative issues, and get paid. More recently they decided to send an auditor out. I spent the day with them proving treatments had occurred via file audit. In the end, they claimed that there was no evidence treatment had occurred and therefore I owed them back thousands of dollars. I spent many hours following up with this bogus audit. They has taken photocopies of the charts – proving the treatments and yet still said they did not exist. They claimed “over charging” with no evidence. Despite me re-sending all necessary documents including offering client and local CFB statements that the treatments had occurred, they still did not consider any of the facts. Fast forward over 2 years without resolution, they are now refusing to pay my private paying (civilian) clients’ reimbursements and what’s worse is they tell the client I am not a registered therapist. I am a legally licensed and registered therapist in good standing with my college! What they are not telling people is that they are not allowing me to be registered with THEM as a provider on their list. They are like the mob! Trying to bully and blackmail me into paying them thousands of dollars just for the privilege of seeing clients that pay for extended health benefits through Blue Cross. I know I am not the only provider to experience this issue and behaviour with Blue Cross. I have spoken to several, but they are afraid to say anything publicly for fear of going up against a shady insurance giant. Sadly, there is little to no recourse for our industry with respect to dealing with their inappropriate practices.

Please do not buy your insurance with Blue Cross and support this type of company. If you work for a large company that uses Blue Cross as its provider of extended health benefits, encourage them to change providers. If your claim has been denied, take it to the Ontario Ombudsmen at www.olhi.ca and have them investigate the practices of Blue Cross. This needs to change!

get any other insurance

it doesn’t mater what claim you submit they come up with a reason even after talking to them about it. to not cover it.

Terrible Service in Quebec

Denied my drug claim, stating it was a “duplicate service that was paid on a previous submission”. I got the pharmacy to call and let the company know that I paid and not them, but all they said was they’ll “look into it”. I haven’t seen any money and it’s been weeks. Would never recommend this company, I had to pay $65 out of pocket for their mistake and they won’t reimburse me.

Won’t cover medications i need to get better

Terrible insurance company, they still work from snail mail and haven’t been able to cover half of the prescriptions I need to stop being sick.

No Blue Cross Travel Insurance

Blue Cross partner CanAssist denied my claim for Air Canada fare cancelled due to Covid arguing that the airline company offer of a 1-year credit is full compensation. I haven’t even accept the credit fro airline.If I do,the chances a being able to use the credit is zero given the current situation. They also provided misleading information on the claim process when first contacted that resulted in a delay of the claim processing by several months.

Blue Cross/CanAssist weaseled out of paying trip cancellation costs

Blue Cross partner CanAssist denied our claim for air fares cancelled due to Covid arguing that the airline company offer of a 1-year credit is full compensation. The chances a being able to use the credit are approaching zero given the current situation. They also provided misleading information on the claim process when first contacted that resulted in a delay of the claim processing by several months.

Claim took 6 weeks to get processed

Bad customer service Claim took 6 weeks to get processed I had to open two online cases and call 4 times I dont recommend

Gave me coverage I did not want for drugs. Incredibly complicated website and horrible customer service !

You have to jump through hoops, plead and cry to get reimbursed money owed.

One star is too generous for this company, I have had so much trouble getting reimbursements owed to me. I feel like I am criminal trying to defraud the company each time I have a claim outside of the routine claims. Claims that are rejected are extremely difficult to resolve, common sense is not something this company uses. I imagine most people simply give up trying to resolve contested claims as the company wears you down until you are so frustrated, you don’t have the energy or will to pursue the money owed to you. I have no choice in medical insurance as this is the company my employer uses, if it was my decision I would NOT use Bluecross,

Inaccessible

Of course the app and the online portal are both inaccessible. I never have any issue registering on any sites other than for an insurance company. My thought is that it is in hopes that you will give up and they won’t have to pay, despite that I have already paid the premium.

Terrible coverage

I had to see a psychologist to assist my daughter with a disability claim. I provided a receipt to Blue Cross for $ 1000.00 and my plan only reimbursed $ 60.00. This has left my unable to pay my credit card and now paying high interest rate! They insist on yearly prescription for a lousy $ 15.00 month massage coverage. I pay $ 25.00 for the prescription. Ridiculous. Go with anyone else for coverage!!

They ripped me off!

These guys ripped me off!

Long story short is by the Canadian laws, if you had travel insurance then you’ve got provincial insurance covering you, these insurance companies must refund you the rest of the time you have bought from them!

I was literally broken then, and finally had our OHIP but these guys refused to refund us even though I extended our insurance with them 1 or 2 weeks before that!

Their claim for not refunding us was that we made a claim one time for my daughter when she got sick and took her to the emergency! However, that was in the old contract, not the new one!

So when I spoke to a manager on the phone and explained to her that I just extended my insurance to technically it’s a new one, she replied that ‘you’re right, but this is a trick in our policy and I can’t help you!’

Well, the amount that they were supposed to refund me was about $300. It’s not much! But back then, I was literally broken! I used to work 14 hours a day at two jobs to feed my daughter and wife and that $300 made lots of difference to me!

Anyway, I’m happy to say that I know more than 25 people from family and friends who came to Canada for long and short visits and the first thing I’d advise them not to do is getting their insurance from the blue cross!

It’ll always be one of the first things I’d tell anyone coming to Canada not to get their insurance from this company!

Great Company for Travel Insurance

Had a short stay hospital claim for my wife a few years back and paid by Blue Cross with no hassle what so ever. Very professional and would highly recommend.

Moved to another province

After 18 years with Alberta Blue Cross I moved to BC. They will not waive waiting periods for dental.

Submitted a claim in September and were told 5-10 business days to deposit it into our account- nothing. Called and advised it was not deposited and confirmed banking info and they said it was processed and deposited on September 19. Said they would trace it and advise- no return call. Made multiple calls and were told they “were still tracing it”. Called today (Tuesday, October 30) and was told it it was being processed and would be sent out by cheque on Thursday (November 1).

Requested interest for two months that the bank or Blue Cross had earned on our money and was told “No”. Supervisor in Contact Centre would only identify herself as “Laura L.”

I have NEVER refused to provide my name to a client.

Blue Cross has provided the worst customer service I have ever experienced!

terrible service

This is the third time we have had issues getting reimbursed promptly. Twice they have lost the paperwork and than denied getting it even though we had a confirmation from our dentist. This las time we have been waiting 3 weeks for a simple reimbursement for glasses. When we called they said they were working on mid June billings this is now early August. We will be cancelling our policy very poor customer service.

scam, fraud

My wife has a travel insurance and is taking medications in the hospital and will not be able to get back from her visit ontime, as per all the hospital reports, she has to be under monitoring and she had a kidney attack and her doctor strongly recommended that she needs more time to be recovered and she will not able to travel (travel duration is 20 hours). we submitted all the reports from the hospital and labs to the blue cross travel insurance and they have denied the claim knowing that we are not asking for medical benefits but only cancellation or delay the reservation. since many days I am discussing with them with no use. They sent me email only saying that their medical team found that she is fit to travel. she is now in the hospital and she is supposed to get back tomorrow and they say that she is fit. I asked them to send me documents on what basis they took their decision but they refused.

Someone tells me how a person in the hospital and he is fit to travel !!

I don’t recommend them as honest travel insurance,

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