Customizable travel insurance can help protect you from out-of-pocket expenses caused by medical emergencies, cancelled trips or lost luggage—yet it’s often overlooked as an important part of preparing for a safe and enjoyable journey.

To help you make an informed decision, we’d like to expose a few myths around the need for this kind of coverage.

Myth 1: I Don’t Need Travel Medical Insurance While I’m Travelling Within Canada.

Provincial health care will cover some but not all medical costs if you get sick or injured in another province. You’ll have to pay the difference for care that is in addition to those costs, like ambulance rides or prescriptions.

Myth 2: I Don’t Need Travel Medical Insurance While I’m Travelling Outside Canada

Do you know the cost of medical care outside Canada can be much higher than the amounts payable by your provincial health plan and extended health care plans? The advice from the Government of Canada, when it comes to travelling abroad, is for Canadians to purchase private health insurance when they plan to leave the country.

Myth 3: I Don’t Need Travel Medical Insurance Because My Credit Card Coverage Will Take Care of Me While I’m Away

Most credit card travel insurance “isn’t tailored to support unique needs,” which can mean there will be gaps in your coverage. There may also be some conditions for using your credit card insurance. Take a good look at who and what actually is covered and for how long to see if you need supplemental travel insurance.

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You’re never too old to travel! To be sure, age and your physical health are factors that will be taken into consideration when it comes to getting travel medical insurance coverage. Some providers have limitations, but don’t let that deter you! There are plenty of options for the senior traveler. They can be expensive—but not as expensive as the uninsured costs if you have a medical emergency during a trip.

Whatever your travel plans are, ensure you and your family stay protected with supplementary travel insurance protection. Talk to an insurance expert to get the coverage right for you.