The British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA) says changing travel patterns are influencing how British Columbians purchase travel insurance, with many now seeking guidance to ensure their coverage matches their plans, and in some cases, reducing costs by choosing more targeted policies.
According to BCAA, demand for travel insurance covering the United States has declined, while sales of global policies that exclude US destinations have increased by as much as 18%. The organization also reports a more than 22% rise in the purchase of travel insurance for trips within Canada.
“Higher costs of health care in the US mean travel insurance costs more,” said Alana Udovicic, consumer marketing manager at BCAA. “If you're venturing elsewhere, choosing a policy that excludes the US can save you 10 to 28% for a BCAA policy, for example, and provide valuable protection.”
While travel insurance remains a standard consideration for international travel, BCAA notes that travellers are placing greater emphasis on coverage for destinations that are farther away or less familiar.
According to Udovicic, as travel becomes more complex, many are prioritizing insurance features that offer support in emergency situations, particularly when navigating unfamiliar languages or healthcare systems.
Among the services being promoted is BCAA’s Travel Delay +AutoPay, which provides automatic e-transfer payments when registered flights are delayed. The payout is intended to help offset immediate expenses, such as meals or other essentials, and is available for domestic and international flights, including those within Canada.
BCAA also advises travellers to assess whether they need US-specific coverage. In some cases, individuals travelling through the US for a short period may not require full US coverage. However, travellers are encouraged to confirm this with their insurer.
Additional recommendations from BCAA include purchasing travel insurance early, particularly ahead of potential disruptions such as weather events or labour disputes, and considering domestic policies that cover out-of-province medical expenses not included under the provincial Medical Services Plan.
BCAA says the current trends reflect a more proactive approach by travellers in managing risk and navigating the rising complexity of travel logistics.
