Plan a safe trip with travel insurance

As summer winds down, Canadians are starting to think about their winter travel plans. And likely, travel insurance is the last thing on their minds.

But the costs can mount up if your clients have a medical emergency while abroad. The majority of Canadians (80%) believe the cost of treating pneumonia in the U.S. is $10,000 or less. In reality, the bill can run as high as $66,000, finds a BMO Insurance study.

Meanwhile, 82% think it costs $5,000 or less to treat decompression sickness in Thailand. This is far below the actual cost of $40,000.

Read: Does your client need global insurance?

And only half of those surveyed knew that if they have a medical emergency while travelling, they’re responsible for covering expenses.

“While still in the planning stages of your vacation, be sure to do your research and investigate travel medical insurance options and purchase one that is right for your trip,” says Julie Barker-Merz, vice president and COO, BMO Insurance.

She adds, “Should an unfortunate event occur, the last thing you should be worrying about is whether you’ll have enough money to deal with such an emergency.”

Here are some stories advisors can share with their frequent flyer clients to illustrate they will need more than sunscreen to protect them while travelling aboard.

Protect clients when they go to volatile countries

Travel insurance protects net worth

Stick to the law when it comes to insurance

Underwriting HNW insurance clients

Key person insurance an overlooked opportunity

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