Insuring your adventure: Road trip planning for Canadian drivers

There’s something special about going on a road trip, the freedom to choose your route, play your favourite music, and pack all the snacks you love. Unlike flying or taking the train, driving your own vehicle gives you full control of the journey. But before you set off, make sure you’re not overlooking a key travel essential: the right insurance coverage. At Orbit Insurance Services, we’re here to help you travel with peace of mind. Buckle up as we guide you through the coverage options to consider before your next adventure. 

Auto Insurance 

Before you hit the road, it's important to understand what is and isn't covered under your auto insurance policy. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to contact your insurance broker for clarification. Consider the following questions: 

1. How many drivers will there be? 

• Your policy may only cover listed drivers. If someone not listed drives your vehicle and gets into an accident, coverage could be denied. 
• Make sure all potential drivers are either listed on your policy or are covered under permissive use clauses. 

2. Where are you going? 

• Some policies have geographic limitations. Coverage might differ for urban vs. rural areas or specific regions. 
• Let your broker know if you're traveling to areas with different driving conditions or risks. 

3. How long will you be on the road?

• Extended travel might be considered different from regular use. Long trips could require additional coverage or a temporary policy adjustment. 
• Ask about coverage for extended travel or vacation use.

4. Will you drive through multiple provinces? 

• Insurance laws and minimum coverage requirements vary by province. 
• Confirm that your policy meets or exceeds the requirements in each province you’ll visit.

5. Will you be driving out of the country?

• Most Canadian auto insurance policies have limited or no coverage outside Canada and the U.S. 
• If you're driving into the U.S. or Mexico, ask about cross-border coverage or supplemental insurance. 

Once you have the answers to these questions, you can work with your broker to determine if your existing auto insurance coverage is enough for your trip. In some cases, it's not a bad idea to enhance your protection with additional coverage options to protect you on the road. Speak with an Orbit insurance broker to find the right coverage that suits your needs. 

Travel Insurance 

While travel insurance is commonly associated with flights, it’s also available for road trips, offering valuable protection for your journey. Here are some reasons to consider travel insurance for your road trip: 

1. Unexpected delays 

Even with a well-planned itinerary, unexpected delays can still happen. Your vehicle might break down or you could encounter construction or face inclement weather. These unforeseen circumstances can lead to missing out on reservations for your accommodations or admission to attractions you already paid for. In these cases, travel insurance can be very worthwhile. 

2. Medical emergencies 

In Canada, we have access to universal healthcare. However, some exclusions apply  when travelling to another province or territory.1 Travel insurance can help cover costs not included in your provincial plan if you experience a medical emergency.1 It’s always recommended to purchase additional coverage for unexpected medical expenses when travelling outside your home province.1 

If you’re visiting another country, such as the United States, it’s highly recommended to purchase additional coverage before leaving Canada.1 Healthcare costs can add up quickly without proper health insurance, and travel insurance can protect you from facing a hefty hospital bill. 

3. Trip cancellation 

In the event you need to cancel your family road trip at the last minute due to illness, work obligations, or any other reason; you could lose out on a great deal of money. Travel insurance can help you recover costs for prepaid or non-refundable parts of your trip, giving you peace of mind. 

Home insurance 

Why should you be concerned about home insurance while on a road trip? Believe it or not, it’s important to discuss your home insurance policy with your broker before you go! Many home insurance policies include a vacancy clause, which means you can’t leave your home empty or unchecked for a specific period, often 30 days. 

If you plan to be away for over a month, consider asking a trusted family member or friend to house-sit or check on your home while you’re gone. Your broker can provide more details about the vacancy clause in your home insurance policy. 

Your home insurance policy may also cover personal  belongings  while travelling. For example, if your camera is stolen from your vehicle, your home insurance policy might protect you, provided it covers your personal belongings. It may be worth considering adding to your home insurance coverage to protect your valuable items. 

When planning a family road trip make sure your insurance is ready to go the distance. Already an Orbit customer? Contact an Orbit insurance broker to review your current policies and explore optional coverage that could give you extra peace of mind. 

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1. Government of Canada – Trip interruption and travel health insurance