Best Travel Insurance for Canadian Seniors Visiting US 

For Canadian seniors planning to travel to the United States, purchasing adequate travel insurance is not just a recommendation—it is a necessity. The U.S. has some of the highest medical costs globally, and Canadian provincial health plans offer only limited emergency coverage outside Canada. A simple hospital visit, or medical emergency could cost thousands of dollars, making uninsured travel a risky proposition. 

This guide highlights the top travel insurance options available in 2025 for Canadian seniors visiting the U.S., offering detailed comparisons, frequently asked questions, and expert tips to help you choose the best plan for your needs. 

Table of Contents: 

• Why Canadian Seniors Need U.S. Travel Insurance 

• Types of Travel Insurance Plans Available 

• Top 4 Best-Selling Travel Insurance Plans for Canadian Seniors (2025) 

• FAQs 

• Conclusion 

Why Canadian Seniors Need U.S. Travel Insurance 

Healthcare costs in the U.S. can be shockingly high. A hospital stay for a fractured hip or a sudden heart issue can easily exceed $50,000. Unfortunately, Canada’s provincial health care (like OHIP or MSP) may only reimburse a tiny fraction of those expenses—if any. 

Travel insurance helps fill this gap by providing: 

• Emergency hospitalization and surgery 
• Ambulance and air evacuation 
• Coverage for the acute onset of pre-existing conditions 
• Return of remains or repatriation 
• Trip delays, or interruption 
• COVID-19 treatment 

Traveling without insurance is not worth the risk—especially for seniors who may be more susceptible to health issues. 

Types of Travel Insurance Plans Available 

Visitor Insurance policies are the best options for Canadian Seniors coming to the US. These plans are specifically designed for non-US citizens and residents visiting the US for a brief stay from a minimum of 5 days to a maximum of 364 days.  

There are two major types of travel insurance plans designed for seniors visiting the U.S.: 

1. Comprehensive Coverage Plans 

These plans offer broader and more flexible protection. They typically include: 

• Emergency medical expenses 
• Prescriptions and outpatient services 
• Evacuation and repatriation 
• Coverage for trip interruptions and baggage loss 
• Optional add-ons like adventure sports, AD&D, and telehealth 

These plans often come with higher policy limits and are ideal for seniors with moderate to higher travel risk. 

2. Fixed-Benefit (Limited) Plans 

Fixed-benefit plans offer predetermined payout amounts for covered services. While premiums are lower, the coverage may not match actual costs incurred in the U.S., particularly in emergencies. 

Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers in good health who need basic protection. 

Top 4 Best-Selling Travel Insurance Plans for Canadian Seniors (2025)  

Here are the most trusted and popular travel insurance plans among Canadian seniors in 2025, all of which are available online and designed specifically for non-U.S. residents visiting the country. 

1. Safe Travels USA Comprehensive:  

Offered by Trawick International, this is one of the most preferred comprehensive plans among seniors. It offers medical and trip related benefits, with numerous policy maximum and deductible options. 

The main benefits are:  

• Covers 1 acute episode per pre-existing condition covered up to policy medical max for non-cardiac conditions for 69y & under, $35K for ages 70 to 79yrs; $20K for over 79yrs. 
  For Cardiac & Stroke coverage up to $25K until 69yrs; $15K for over 69yrs 
• $30 copay if treated at Urgent Care. 
• Plan pays 100% coinsurance up to policy maximum per year.  
• $250 for dental accidents and emergencies.  
• Evacuation up to $2,000,000 per Policy Period.  
• Optional upgrades include Return to Home Country Coverage, Sports Activity Coverage, and AD&D.  

Best For: Seniors looking for robust coverage and excellent value. 

2. Patriot America 

Patriot America offers three categories of plans inside the US- Lite, Plus, and Platinum. The plan is ideal for individuals, families,  groups, and also senior travelers. 

The main benefits are:  

• Policy maximum up to $1 million (Lite and Plus) and up to $8 million (Platinum).  
• The plan can be extended to 24 continuous months (Lite and Plus) and up to 36 months (Platinum). 
• The plan pays 100% coinsurance in network (all categories).  
• Covers the acute onset of the pre-existing conditions (only Plus and Platinum). 
• The Platinum plan covers Telehealth, Travel Intelligence, and Evacuation Plus. 

Best For: Seniors who want customizable options based on trip duration and budget. 

3. Visitors Protect 

Visitors Protect plan is designed specifically for individuals and families traveling from their home country to the US, Canada, and Mexico. This plan offers temporary coverage for pre-existing conditions, making it one of the best sellers among elderly visitors coming to the US.  

The main benefits are:  

• The plan pays 75% coinsurance in-network.  
• $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500, or $5,000 options of deductibles.  
• For pre-existing conditions, the maximum limit up to age 69 is $25,000 and the maximum limit from ages 70 and older is $20,000.  
• Covers CareClix Consultation.  
• 75% of chosen policy maximum for dental accidents.  

Best For: Travelers managing chronic conditions who want added assurance. 

4. Venbrook Premier 

Venbrook Premier is a leading travel medical insurance plan, specifically tailored for non-citizens who reside outside the US. The plan is available up to age 89 and can be bought from 5 days up to maximum of 364 days. 

• Covers one episode of an Acute Onset of Pre-existing Condition up to age 69 yrs. 
• Up to $250 for a Wellness Check within the first 21 days from the effective date of coverage 
• Incudes coverage for Cardiovascular events. 
• Dental Treatment to a sound natural tooth is up to $300 per policy period. 
• Up to $150 for Emergency Eye Exam due to an accident. 
• $10,000 per policy period for Trip Interruption. 

Best For: Seniors with Cardiovascular conditions. 

Other Important Factors to Consider 

COVID-19 Coverage in 2025 

Most travel insurance plans now include COVID-19 as a covered illness. Be sure the policy: 

• Covers testing, hospitalization, treatment  

Choosing the Right Deductible 

Higher deductibles mean lower premiums, but more out-of-pocket costs. Seniors should balance savings with the likelihood of needing care. 

PPO Networks 

Plans that use PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) networks often result in: 

• Faster claims processing 
• Direct billing 
• Reduced rates at in-network hospitals 

Pre-Existing Conditions 

Look for the term “acute onset of pre-existing conditions.” This does not mean full coverage but typically allows for sudden, unexpected flare-ups of known conditions. 

FAQs 

What types of coverage should Canadian seniors look for in a travel insurance plan? 

Seniors should look for coverage that includes emergency medical care, hospitalization, trip interruption, medical evacuation, acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and COVID-19-related expenses. 

What is the difference between single-trip and annual travel insurance? 

Single-trip insurance covers one specific trip, while annual insurance offers coverage for multiple trips throughout the year. Annual plans are ideal for seniors who frequently travel. 

Can I extend my travel insurance if I stay longer than planned? 

Yes, many insurers offer the option to extend coverage if your stay is prolonged. It is important to contact the insurance company before your policy expires to arrange the extension. Some plans might not be renewable. 

What should Canadian seniors do if they need medical treatment while in the US? 

If medical treatment is needed, Canadian seniors should seek care at a healthcare facility, show the ID card to the facility for direct payment, or pay for services upfront (if necessary), and contact their travel insurance provider to begin the claims process. 

Conclusion 

Travel insurance is a vital part of trip planning for Canadian seniors visiting the US. Whether you are visiting family, snowbirding in Florida or Arizona, or exploring the national parks, having reliable coverage will protect you from high medical bills and unexpected travel hiccups.  When choosing a policy, consider your age, health status, trip duration, and budget. Compare plans side-by-side, read the fine print, and do not hesitate to speak with a licensed insurance advisor if you are unsure. 

By investing in the right plan, you can enjoy peace of mind and focus on what truly matters: making lasting memories during your time in the United States. 

To buy a plan, drop us an email at [email protected].