Credit card with travel insurance: what to check?

Do you have to pay for your trip with your credit card to be covered?

Yes, in most cases. You generally need to pay for your entire trip (tickets, hotel, car rental, etc.) with your credit card for the travel insurance to apply.

Who is covered by credit card travel insurance?

Coverage varies depending on the card and its issuer. Some travel insurance policies cover:

• The cardholder
• Their spouse
• Their children

Others cover only the cardholder.

Good to know: Emergency medical coverage may be limited for older travellers.

What protections are included?

The protections offered by a credit card with travel insurance vary widely. They may include:

• Emergency medical care
• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Accidents
• Baggage

Good to know: Some of these protections are optional. You may need to pay an extra fee or purchase individual travel insurance to add them.

Length of coverage: What’s the limit on covered days?

The length of travel insurance coverage offered by a credit card is often limited. In most cases:

• Maximum of 15 to 30 days
• Reduced duration for travellers aged 65 and over

An extension may sometimes be possible if your trip is longer than your base coverage. Otherwise, you’ll need to purchase supplemental insurance.

Pre-existing conditions: Are you covered?

Have you seen a doctor before your departure or are you currently undergoing treatment? This may be considered a pre-existing medical condition, meaning a health issue you’re aware of before you leave. If this applies to you:

• Contact your insurer to confirm your protections.
• Check the required stability period (often 3 to 6 months).

If these conditions aren’t met, you may not be covered.

Are high-risk sports covered by credit cards?

It depends on your card. Many credit card travel insurance policies exclude extreme sports. Be sure to check the terms and conditions before you leave. Some insurers specialize in this type of coverage or offer optional riders.

Exclusions and limits of your credit card’s coverage

Travel insurance included with a credit card comes with several limits. Here are the key things to check before you leave.

Coverage amounts

Coverage amounts are often capped by travel credit cards. For example, trip cancellation coverage may be capped at around $2000. If your trip costs more, you’ll be responsible for the difference.

Paying for care

Depending on your card, you may need to pay for a consultation or care during your trip, then claim reimbursement once you’re back home.

Reimbursement and deductible

Before you leave, check whether your credit card’s travel insurance reimburses care at 100% or whether a deductible applies.

Baggage

Baggage is rarely covered by credit card travel insurance.

Claim conditions

The insurance plan provided by your credit card generally applies only if the trip is paid for with that card.

Credit card expiry

If your credit card expires during your trip, your insurance coverage could end at the same time.

These limits can have a major impact on your coverage while travelling.
To better understand the differences, compare the main protections offered by each type of insurance.

Travel insurance: Credit card or supplemental coverage?

What to remember

Travel insurance included with your credit card can be useful, but it often comes with significant limits. Before you leave: Check the protections, understand the exclusions and confirm the coverage conditions. If in doubt, contact your credit card company.

If needed, complement your coverage with individual travel insurance like the one offered by CAA-Quebec Travel Insurance.