Does my card's travel insurance activate automatically?

Not always. For emergency medical insurance, some cards consider it active as soon as you are a cardholder and travelling. For cancellation and interruption, paying part of the trip with the card is almost always required. Read the "eligibility conditions" section of your policy to know exactly what triggers each protection.

How many days does my credit card cover me for?

It depends on your card and your age at departure. Common durations are 15 days (some Scotia cards), 21 days (TD Ultimate Travel), 31 days (several RBC and CIBC cards) and 60 days (National Bank World Elite, Desjardins Odyssey World Elite for under 59). These durations are generally reduced after 65. See our comparison of the best cards for travel insurance for an up-to-date table.

Is my trip paid in points covered?

Not necessarily. Some cards cover trips paid through their reward program, others require a partial cash payment with the card. This varies by issuer and type of protection. Check the "eligibility" section of your policy or contact your card's customer service before you leave.

What is a pre-existing medical condition?

It is generally any health issue for which you received care, saw a doctor, changed medication or showed symptoms in the 90 to 180 days before your departure, depending on the policy. If your condition is not stable under these criteria, medical costs linked to it may be excluded from your coverage, even if you are otherwise insured.

Is alpine skiing covered by my credit card insurance?

Resort alpine skiing is generally covered by policies tied to credit cards. Backcountry skiing, ski touring and freestyle skiing may appear in the exclusions depending on the policy. Check the list of excluded activities in your policy; when in doubt, ask your issuer for written confirmation before you leave.

Does soNomad replace my credit card insurance?

No. soNomad is designed to complement your card's coverage in specific cases: a stay exceeding your card's maximum duration, a pre-existing condition to declare, an excluded sports activity, or age over 65 with uncovered stay lengths. For a standard trip under 60 days, with no pre-existing condition, your premium card generally offers sufficient protection.

How do I know which card offers the best insurance?

The answer depends on your age, the usual length of your trips, your activities and your health. Our comparison of the best cards for travel insurance ranks the options by profile, with the exact conditions for each card. If you are over 65, also see our guide on travel insurance for those 65 and over.

Do you need travel insurance if you only travel within Canada?

Yes, for the same fundamental reasons as abroad. If you live in Quebec, RAMQ reimburses emergency care received elsewhere in Canada, but only at its own rates, not those of the treating facility. Ambulances, air evacuations and medical repatriation are not covered. Our guide on RAMQ and travel outside Quebec details these limits.

Audrey Voisine

Audrey, co-founder of Milesopedia, is a dedicated entrepreneur, avid traveler, and mother of two children. She shares valuable tips and recommendations for families and frequent travellers alike, helping everyone get the most from points and rewards programs. As Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications, she is committed to guiding Milesopedia readers toward more accessible, practical, and memorable journeys.

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