What you need to know about TuGo’s Sports & Activities Coverage add-on

Some of the best parts of a vacation are the memorable activities you choose to take part in. Lucky for you, TuGo’s Emergency Medical Insurance covers many activities such as skiing, parasailing, and even ziplining! But what if you’re looking for more of a daring adventure, like backcountry skiing, BASE jumping, or dirt biking? Good news: TuGo’s got the product for you!  

Higher adrenaline? Higher risk! Protect Yourself with TuGo

TuGo’s optional Sports & Activities Coverage protects travellers who are ready to take their travels to new heights. Simply add this coverage to your Emergency Medical Insurance so you can be safely covered for a range of activities. Under our Sports & Activities Coverage, here’s a list of the sports & activities we cover: 

Sport/Activity*  Is it covered?  Backcountry skiing/snowboarding  ✅  
Base Jumping  ✅  
Boxing  ✅ 
Downhill freestyle skiing/Snowboarding in organized competitions  ✅
Downhill mountain biking  ✅ 
Hang gliding/paragliding  ✅  
High risk snowmobiling and motorized snow biking  ✅  
High risk motorized speed activities, including:  
– Motorized racing competitions, endurance events or timed activities,   
– Motocross, dirt biking, and motorcycling (unless vehicle   is solely being used for transportation purposes)  ✅  
Ice climbing  ✅ 
Mixed martial arts✅ 
Mountaineering – 2 options:  
– Mountaineering up to 6,000 m elevation  
– Mountaineering over 6,000 m elevation  
– Includes ski mountaineering (skimo) and ice climbing if the  activity is part of mountaineering  ✅ 
Organized team sports including**:   
– American and Canadian football    
– Ice hockey    
– Rugby  ✅
Parachuting/skydiving/tandem skydiving  ✅
Rock climbing (includes canyoneering, but doesn’t include indoor/outdoor artificial rock climbing)  ✅
Scuba diving or free diving over 40 metres  ✅
White water sports – Class VI  ✅
Wingsuit flying  ✅

*Coaches, referees, and sports officials do not need to purchase the optional Sports & Activities Coverage for these sports to be covered.  
**Applicable to travellers 21 years and older (at the time of application).  

Climbing above 6,000 m: TuGo’s Sports & Activities coverage saves climber $64,000 

Ronald, a 44-year-old experienced climber, embarked on his final attempt to conquer his life-long dream of summiting Mount Everest. However, during his ascent, he slipped in the snow and twisted his knee. In extreme pain and unable to continue, Ronald made the difficult decision to end his summit pursuit and call for a helicopter rescue to take him to a hospital in Kathmandu. At the hospital, doctors diagnosed him with an ACL knee injury and recommended further treatment and surgery back home. 

Fortunately, Ronald’s decision to add Sports and Activities Coverage for mountaineering over a 6,000-metre elevation and Trip Interruption Only Insurance to his Emergency Medical Insurance plan paid off. He was covered for the helicopter air ambulance rescue and his emergency medical evacuation from Kathmandu back to Canada for further treatment/surgery. Thanks to this coverage, Ronald received the necessary care, saving over $64,000 in medical and trip expenses. 

Climbing up to 6,000 m: Climber avoids $24,000 out-of-pocket after a mountaineering accident

26-year-old Chris, a mountain climber, decided to go on a 3-day mountaineering expedition at Mount Baker in Washington, including limited ice climbing. Unfortunately, on the second day, while climbing, he encountered a significant fall, resulting in a head injury that led to a temporary loss of consciousness.   

Due to the severity of his injuries, Chris had to be immediately airlifted to a hospital in Seattle. Despite sustaining a mild concussion and various abrasions, he was fortunate enough to be discharged on the same day. Nevertheless, his doctor strongly advised him to cancel any further climbing plans due to the risks associated with his concussion. 

Thankfully, Chris made a habit of adding Sports & Activities Coverage for mountaineering up to a 6,000-metre elevation to his Emergency Medical Plan before his climbing trips. And, since mountaineering and ice climbing were a part of the same expedition, he only needed to add mountaineering when purchasing coverage.  

Chris’s decision to purchase Sports & Activities coverage proved invaluable, shielding him from paying over $24,000 in medical expenses. 

Are there sports & activities that aren’t covered?

Any sports & activities not listed above are covered under your TuGo Emergency Medical Plan, except for the following: 

Sport/Activity  Is it covered? Barrel racing  ❌  Bronc riding  ❌  Bull riding  ❌  Chariot racing  ❌  Chuck wagon racing  ❌  Harness racing  ❌  Rodeo bareback riding  ❌  Rodeo clowning  ❌  Rodeo team roping  ❌  Steer wrestling/chute dogging  ❌  Trick riding  ❌  

Don’t duck under ropes!

If you participate, train or practice in the following activities in any areas that have been closed off to public access and/or can typically only be accessed by crossing a fenced, gated or roped-off area that has been marked as off limits according to recommendations of safety authorities in the area, you won’t be covered: 

• Backcountry skiing/snowboarding  

• Downhill freestyle skiing/snowboarding in organized competitions  

• High risk snowmobiling and motorized snow biking  

• Ice climbing  

• Mountaineering over 6,000 m elevation   

• Mountaineering up to 6,000 m elevation   

• Rock climbing  

As always, make sure you understand your travel insurance policy so you know what you’re covered for. Stay safe on your travels, and always remember to have fun, no matter where your adventures take you! 

Happy adventuring,
Suki

By Suki Lam, TuGo Travel Insurance

Mountain Biking: Your Top 4 Travel Insurance FAQs Answered

Looking to hit the trails this summer season? Travel insurance can cover you as the rider and, in some cases, the bike you ride—even for downhill mountain biking! Below, we answer the most frequently asked questions we’ve received from Canadian mountain biking enthusiasts.

Do I need travel insurance if I’m going mountain biking in another province?

While your provincial healthcare plan will cover medical emergencies within Canada, it won’t cover everything. If you do have an accident and need air and/or ground ambulance, essential medical supplies like a wheelchair or crutches, and more, you’ll want to consider Emergency Medical Insurance to cover these expenses. Otherwise, an air evacuation alone can leave you thousands of dollars out of pocket without travel protection.

What kind of travel insurance do I need?

TuGo’s Traveller policy defines downhill mountain biking as: “Biking down mountain trails or rough mountain terrain (whether as part of a race or not) and often features jumps, drops, rock gardens or other obstacles. It often requires the use of mechanical lifts or elevators”.

If this is how you like to ride, here’s what you need to know to ensure you have the right travel insurance coverage:

1. Comprehensive Emergency Medical Insurance – Emergency Medical will cover you from hospital services (when travelling outside Canada) to ambulance services and emergency dental care.

2. Sports & Activities Coverage – For downhill mountain biking, you’ll need to add Sports & Activities Coverage to your Emergency Medical policy.

3. Consider adding on Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption if you’ve reserved flights, tours, or accommodations in advance. Plus, if your travelling companion is injured on the trip, you’ll be covered by Trip Interruption if you have to cut your trip short or return home early (that is, if their claim meets the policy’s terms and conditions).

Having travel insurance for travelling in the US is important for Canadian mountain bike enthusiasts since US medical costs are some of the highest in the world.

What about bike competitions?

If you purchase Sports & Activities Coverage with Emergency Medical Insurance, you’ll be covered as per the definition of downhill mountain biking stated above.

What about bike theft?

Baggage Insurance covers lost, damaged or stolen bikes, up to 25% of your sum insured amount, only if checked as baggage with a common carrier, defined as: “A boat, cruise ship, airplane, bus, taxi, train or other similar vehicles that are licensed, intended and used primarily to transport passengers for hire”. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, if something happens to your bike, you’d claim that under homeowner’s or renters’ insurance.

Note: If you’re a professional mountain biker, professional/occupational equipment is excluded under Baggage, so your mountain bike wouldn’t be covered—even when checked in as baggage.

If you have any other questions about mountain biking and travel insurance, leave a comment below!

Safe travels,
Melissa

Sports & Activities Coverage for Extreme Adventure Travel

Who doesn’t like to have a little adventure when it comes to travel? We recognize that most travellers do! That’s why Visitors to Canada and Emergency Medical Insurance for Canadians cover many of the activities you love to do while away, like skiing, parasailing or ziplining. That said, if you’re a more daring traveller who really likes to have an adventure, we’ve also got you covered.

Our Sports & Activities Optional Coverage makes it easy to customize your travel insurance to plan your next adventure trip—and take it to the next level.  

Sports & activities to add to your bucket list

By adding Sports & Activities Coverage to your Emergency Medical Insurance, you’ll be able to enjoy:  

• Backcountry skiing/snowboarding

• BASE jumping

• Boxing

• Downhill freestyle skiing/snowboarding in organized competitions

• Downhill mountain biking

• Hang gliding/paragliding

• High-risk snowmobiling

• Ice climbing

• Mixed martial arts

• Motorized speed contests

• Mountaineering

• Organized team sports* includes:

  • American and Canadian football

  • Ice hockey

  • Rugby

• Parachuting/skydiving/tandem skydiving

• Rock climbing (includes canyoneering but does not include indoor rock climbing)

• Scuba diving or free diving over 40 metres

• White water sports (Class VI)

• Wingsuit flying

*Not required if you’re aged 20 years old or younger.

Which sports & activities aren’t covered?

All sports and activities not included in the list above are covered under the Emergency Medical Insurance plan, meaning you don’t have to buy the Sports & Activities Coverage.  

However, there are a few exceptions that aren’t covered, even with the Sports & Activities Coverage added: 

• Barrel racing

• Bronc riding

• Bull riding

• Chariot racing

• Chuckwagon racing

• Harness racing

• Rodeo bareback riding

• Rodeo clowning

• Rodeo team roping

• Steer wrestling /chute dogging

• Trick riding

  Avoid any areas closed off to public access by safety authorities

  If you’re participating, training or practicing in any areas that have been closed off to public access by safety authorities (or areas that can typically only be accessed by crossing a fenced, gated or roped-off area marked as off-limits), you won’t be covered for: 

  • Backcountry skiing / snowboarding

  • Downhill freestyle skiing / snowboarding in organized competitions

  • High-risk snowmobiling

  • Ice climbing

  • Mountaineering

  • Rock climbing

  While we’ve always encouraged travellers to have fun exploring the world, we recognize that travel has changed with COVID-19. Please always put your health and safety first; and before you go, be sure to peruse our comprehensive guide “Understanding Your Travel Insurance Policy”. 

  Safe adventures,
  Melissa 

  Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in December 2020 and has been updated for freshness and/or accuracy. 

Visitors to Canada: Your Guide to Travel Insurance During COVID-19

We know that international travel to Canada during the pandemic can be a challenge; not only do you have to make sure that you fulfill travel requirements from your home country, but you’ll also have to stay up-to-date on the Government of Canada’s travel restrictions. It’s best to check Canada’s travel restrictions regularly, as measures like mandatory testing and quarantine continuously evolve, in response to the ever-changing situation.

Canadian Visitor Visas & Permits

Whether you’re planning to come to Canada on a visitor visa (known as a “temporary resident visa”) or if you’re a parent or grandparent looking into a Super Visa, you’ll need to make sure your paperwork is in order. Don’t leave your research until the last minute! The pandemic has brought on many changes to travel policies and depending on your situation, it may have affected your ability to visit, work or study in Canada. Read about the criteria specific to your visitor's needs.

Tip: There are also resources for new immigrants to Canada who are waiting on their provincial healthcare to kick in. You might even be a Canadian ex-pat who’s returning home to Canada but aren’t eligible for provincial healthcare due to an extended leave.

10 Reasons to Choose TuGo’s Visitors to Canada Insurance

Even outside of a pandemic, it’s important for visitors like you to know that your medical insurance from your home country may not cover you for unexpected emergencies. In fact, the Government of Canada highly recommends that you have adequate travel insurance coverage during your stay since Canadian medical care can be costly if you aren’t a resident. You should arrive prepared for any unexpected mishaps or emergencies with travel insurance.

TuGo’s Visitors to Canada Emergency Medical Insurance is a comprehensive option that includes coverage for hospital care and emergency medical treatment for sickness or injury, doctor, ambulance, x-ray and diagnostic lab services, prescription medication and more—including 24/7 emergency assistance.

Enjoy these 10 benefits when you choose to protect yourself with TuGo’s Visitors to Canada Insurance:

1. COVID-19 coverage

You’ll be covered for COVID-19 related medical emergencies if you have symptoms of COVID-19 and test positive for and are diagnosed with COVID-19 while visiting Canada. However, there are two points to note before you buy:

• Mandatory COVID-19 tests (including any COVID-19 test taken to meet government requirements) aren’t covered, regardless of the test results.

• Coverage isn’t provided for COVID-19 if you travel outside of Canada when a Level 4 travel advisory is issued by the Canadian Government to “avoid all travel”.

Tip: If you need to get tested in Canada for COVID-19 and you’re staying in Vancouver, Nanaimo or Calgary, consider getting tested at CVM Medical, a Canadian-owned company providing accredited gold standard COVID-19 PCR testing. You’ll have your results within 48 hours!

2. Simple eligibility requirements

It’s quick and easy for travellers 59 or younger to qualify. Travellers 60 and older must take an easy-to-fill-out Medical Questionnaire.

3. Competitive pre-existing medical condition coverage

Even if you already have a stable pre-existing medical condition, we’ve got you covered, as long as you meet the policy’s stability requirements.

4. No waiting period

If your travel insurance is purchased before arriving in Canada, there’s no waiting period on sickness. However, if you didn’t buy coverage before arriving in Canada, you can still buy coverage once you get here:

• 48-hour waiting period on disease or illness if the policy is purchased within 60 days after arrival in Canada

• 7-day waiting period on disease or illness if policy is purchased 61 days or more after arrival in Canada

5. Coverage outside of Canada

You can enjoy coverage for worldwide travel, as long as the majority of your period of coverage is spent in Canada. To be covered for side trips outside of the country, you must have travelled to Canada first.

Note: Visiting your home country during your coverage period is allowed during the policy period, but expenses incurred in your home country won’t be covered.

6. Follow-up post-medical emergency visits

If you need to visit the doctor after an emergency medical treatment, you’re entitled to 5 follow-up visits, as long as they take place within 14 days of your initial emergency medical treatment.

7. 24-hour accident insurance

Get up to $25,000 coverage for death or dismemberment as a result of an accident.

8. Professional medical services

Up to $600 for anyone incident per licensed practitioner, including:

• Physiotherapists

• Chiropractors

• Chiropodists

• Osteopaths

• Podiatrists

• Optometrists

• Acupuncturists

9. Maternity benefit

You can be covered up to $6,000 for prenatal care and delivery, and/or complications from these.

10. Family & Friends plan

This special rate is available for up to 2 adults 59 and younger, travelling with up to 6 children. This is applicable to children up to age 21, if residing with their parents/guardians or up to age 25, if they’re full-time students. No age limit applies for children with cognitive, developmental or physical disabilities.

Did you know? Many sports and activities are covered under the Visitors to Canada Emergency Medical Insurance plan at no extra cost. If you want to be a little more adventurous and go backcountry skiing or snowboarding, mountaineering, or participate in white water sports, you might want to consider getting Sports & Activities Coverage.

Lastly, if you’re looking for additional coverage as a visitor, you can always add non-medical options like Baggage Insurance and Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption.

Safe travels,

OUR MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - ANSWERED!

VISITORS TO CANADA TOP FAQ’S

CAN I BUY COVERAGE IF I'M ALREADY IN CANADA?

Yes, if you know of no reason for which you may seek medical attention.

You should note that for Insurance purchased within 60 days after arrival in Canada: There is **no coverage for any sickness** arising in, occurring in or symptomatic during the **first 48 hours of the effective date of the Policy**. This includes any related expenses incurred after the first 48 hours from the effective date of the Policy.

For Insurance **purchased 61 days or more after arrival** in Canada: There is no coverage for any sickness arising in, occurring in or symptomatic **during the first seven days** of the effective date of the Policy. This includes any related expenses incurred after the first seven days from the effective date of the Policy.

The waiting period is not applicable when insurance is purchased prior to arrival in Canada

DO YOU COVER BACKCOUNTRY SKIING AND RIDING?

Yes, we do! All you need to do is customize your policy when quoting to include any adventure sports. If you want to include multiple sports, you’ll only be charged for the highest-risk activity. We do not cover Out of bounds, however, which is defined by any mountain area that: a) Has been closed off to public access; or, b) Has been identified as “out-of-bounds” and/or can typically only be accessed by crossing a fenced, gated or roped-off area that has been marked as off-limits according to recommendations of safety authorities in the area.

HOW MUCH COVERAGE CAN I BUY?

You can purchase increments of $25,000 up to $300,000 and choose your deductible from $0.00 to $10,000 which determines your discount level ranging from a 15% surcharge to a 35% discount.

IS IT BETTER TO BUY FOR THE ENTIRE LENGTH OF MY TRIP?

Yes. If you become injured or ill in the final days of your stay, the coverage does not extend beyond the expiry date and cannot be extended if you've already made a claim, leaving you with potentially high medical costs. The other important saving is the "Sports Packages" are charged each time you purchase a new policy. If you plan on being in Canada for 6 months, for instance, you're much better off buying for the entire length of your stay and getting a refund if you change your plans.

CAN I EXTEND MY COVERAGE?

You can extend your period of coverage before your Policy expires by calling your agent or TuGo during general business hours at 1-855-929-8846 or email at info@tugo.com and must meet the following conditions;

You have not submitted a claim and have no intent to submit a claim. Your period of coverage has not already expired. Extensions are not available if the total trip length exceeds two years from the effective date of the original Policy. You have not seen a physician or other registered medical practitioner since your departure date or the effective date of the Policy. You are in good health and you do not know of any reason to seek medical attention. If these conditions haven’t been met, an extension may be authorized at the discretion of TuGo. If an extension has been authorized, there would be no coverage for subsequent claims related directly or indirectly to the condition(s) or symptom(s) for which a claim has been or will be submitted or for which medical treatment was received or required prior to the effective date of the extension.

CAN I CANCEL MY POLICY?

Yes, plans can be cancelled before or on the effective date found on your policy declaration page. Any cancellations after the effective date may result in an administration fee of $25. To cancel a policy or for more information, please contact TuGo Customer Service at 1-855-929-8846 or email at info@tugo.com

WHAT IF bc is not my destination. Can I buy for other provinces?

Yes, the quoting system allows you to quote any province in Canada as TuGo is Nationwide, not just in BC. This site was originally built for Whistler Travel Insurance, then expanded to BC Travel Insurance and most recently Canada Travel Insurance.

AM I COVERED OUTSIDE OF BC, WHAT ABOUT VISITING THE USA/MEXICO?

Yes, when buying, you’ll need to select the province in which you’ll be spending the most amount of time as your primary destination. If you plan a quick trip to the USA or Mexico while on an extended stay in Canada, as long as the majority of your time spent is in the province you selected, you will be covered while travelling abroad. An example of this would be if you’re in BC for 6 months and you decide to take a week vacation to Mexico, your policy will cover you for your trip. Any direct question can be answered by calling TuGo directly at 1-855-929-8846.

HOW IS BC TRAVEL INSURANCE AFFILIATED WITH TUGO

BC Travel Insurance is a licensed Insurance Broker Operating under Ocean Sun Financial and TuGo is the Insurance provider which takes care of the customer service and claims. All the Insurance is underwritten by Lloyds of London.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE TIME OF CLAIM?

You will need to contact TuGo immediately in any emergency situation from anywhere From Canada and USA: 1-800-663-0399 From Mexico: 001-800-514-9976 / 01-800-681-8070 Worldwide (collect): 604-278-4108

WHAT IS COVERED IN MY POLICY

The company will pay the actual, reasonable and customary medical and related expenses up to the coverage limits for acute, sudden and unexpected emergency sickness or accidents, incurred while you are travelling outside of your country of permanent residence. Eligible medical and related expenses are described below.

Hospital care and treatment for injuries and illnesses including COVID-19*, Doctor’s services, ambulance services, x-rays and other diagnostic laboratory procedures, prescription drugs, essential medical supplies such as crutches, fracture treatment benefits, other professional medical services like physio, etc. to relieve an acute emergency, emergency dental service, maternity/prenatal care, delivery and/or complications, hospital allowance for incidental charges like TV rental, etc. emergency air transportation (must be pre-approved and arranged by us), airfare to return home for treatment, return of travelling companion, return of dependent children, family transportation, out-of-pocket expenses for accommodation, meals etc. return of vehicle, 24-hour accident insurance, up to $25,000, up to 5 follow-visits within 14 days of the initial emergency medical treatment, travel worldwide, as long as the majority of your trip is in Canada. (Up to policy Limits)

HOW MUCH TIME AND FOLLOW-UP VISITS ARE ALLOWED?

Three follow-up visits within the 14 days after the initial emergency medical treatment, provided the follow-up visits are required as a direct result of the initial emergency.

WHAT ABOUT FRACTURE TREATMENT

Following the initial emergency treatment and any covered follow-up visits, the company will pay up to a maximum of $1,000 for the following treatments related to fractures:

X-ray examinations following the initial casting until the cast is permanently removed; and, Re-examination physician visits following a casting until the cast is permanently removed; and, Re-casting and new cast, if medically necessary; and, Cast removal; and Physiotherapy treatment When this benefit is used for physiotherapy treatment, there is no further coverage for physiotherapy treatment under the Other Professional Medical Services Benefit. Eligible expenses must be incurred during the same trip and prior to your return to your country of permanent residence.

WHAT CIRCUMSTANCES OFFER AN AUTOMATIC EXTENSION OF COVERAGE?

At the time the period of coverage ends, coverage for you, your insured travelling companion and/or your insured dependent children or grandchildren will be automatically extended at no additional premium:

For seven days in the event, your common carrier is delayed due to circumstances beyond your control, preventing you from returning to your home province. For the remaining period of your hospital confinement plus seven days after release for you to recover and/or travel home; or, For seven days for you to recover and/or travel home if a physician advises you that your sickness or injury renders you unable to travel on your scheduled return date but you are not hospitalized if written documentation is provided by the attending physician to substantiate your inability to travel home as originally scheduled.

ARE THERE ANY other EXCLUSIONS?

Pre-existing conditions that are not stable in the 120 days before the effective date or the arrival date in Canada, whichever occurs later, for insureds who are 59 years and under on the application date.

Pre-existing conditions that are not stable in the 180 days before the effective date or the arrival date in Canada, whichever occurs later, for insureds who are 60 to 69 years on the application date.

Any pre-existing conditions for insureds who are 70 years and over on the application date. Conditions or any related conditions for which, prior to arrival date in Canada, testing or investigation took place, was scheduled to take place or was recommended (not including tests for a routine check-up or routine monitoring for a medical condition), and for which results had not yet been received at the time of arrival in Canada. This includes tests or investigations that were recommended or scheduled prior to the arrival date in Canada but had not yet taken place. Tests and investigation except when performed at the time of the initial emergency sickness or injury.

Any medical treatment other than continuous treatment as specified in the Dental Services Benefit, which is a continuation of or subsequent to an emergency sickness or accident during the same trip, including its recurrence or any complications related directly or indirectly thereto, unless you are declared by an attending physician medically unfit to return to your country of permanent residence, or the country you were travelling or residing in prior to arriving in Canada.

WHICH SPORTS PACKAGES ARE AVAILABLE

Backcountry Explained

Slackcountry and Backcountry are OK but “Out of Bounds” or “Closed” is simply off limits.

The biggest question these days with travel insurance is whether backcountry skiing and snowboarding is covered. With TuGo insurance, the Adventure Sports Rider will cover you for both Slackcountry and Backcountry but never for “Out of Bounds” usually marked by “Temporary or Permanently Closed” signs due to unsafe conditions such as avalanche danger and cliffs.

Slackcountry is defined as easy to reach, off-piste riding within the Ski Area Boundary or slightly beyond but may have ropes and warnings for expert riders only and is not closed or “Out of Bounds”

Backcountry is defined as intently touring outside the “Ski Area Boundary” and requires avalanche training, safety and survival equipment such as a beacon, probe, shovel and ideally a partner. Backcountry is further defined as a “mountain area that is not marked, not patrolled and/or not cleared for avalanche dangers, but where public access is permitted.”

“Out of Bounds” or “Closed” areas on the other hand are NOT covered and can further be defined as: “any mountain area that:  Has been closed off to public access; or, has been identified as “Out-of-bounds” and/or can typically only be accessed by crossing a fenced, gated or roped-off area that has been marked as “Closed” according to recommendations of safety authorities in the area”  Usually these area are clearly marked in red signage with the attached risk of losing your pass privileges.

Whether your planning to slack million-dollar ridge or go well beyond the “Ski Area Boundary” and tour Decker Lake, you’re safest best is to READ the signs, be prepared and play safe!

Courtesy of Jody Wright, Owner of BC & Whistler Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance for Backcountry & Off-Piste Skiing

If you’re a recreational backcountry skier or splitboarder planning to enjoy the backcountry or slackcountry this winter, TuGo’s Emergency Medical Travel Insurance will cover you for misadventures both on and off the mountain, and on and off-piste too! Despite the dangers of this extreme sport, backcountry recreationalists can be covered by travel insurance.

Good news for backcountry skiers looking for travel insurance

Not all policies will cover backcountry skiers, but ours does when you purchase the Adventure Sports Optional Coverage. Our partners, including the Alpine Club of Canada, offer coverage for all levels of backcountry ski-touring or splitboarding.

As a backcountry skier, you spend a lot of time thinking about avalanche safety, following Avalanche Canada’s bulletins, practicing rescues and researching the terrain, all to avoid avalanches, of course. However, good backcountry trip preparation involves more than just life-or-death avalanche experiences.

To be truly well-prepared, risks related to higher altitudes and injuries in case of accidents. Don’t just think of avalanches and consider other possible risks: exhaustion, hypothermia, dehydration, fractures, concussions, falling into tree wells, getting caught in unexpected weather or under falling rock, on the mountain or even just slipping in the parking lot before you even hit the slopes.

Search and Rescue is free, but hospital bills aren’t

If you’re in a genuine emergency in the backcountry, your ski party members along with Search and Rescue (SAR) will likely be your first line of assistance. SAR volunteers will transport you to the nearest road or medical facility, but the ensuing ambulance rides, hospital expenses and follow up costs, (not to mention repatriation, trip cancellation or interruption costs), will be up to you.

The cost of an air ambulance alone from a Search and Rescue station to a main hospital, for example, can come as quite a shock. It’s common for injured backcountry skiers to need a hospital transfer too; many of the small hospitals nearby don’t offer a full range of care. TuGo Travel Insurance covers licensed helicopter ambulances, a benefit you’ll need, as more often than not, an injury in the backcountry requires helicopter airlift.

Why Canadian skiers need travel insurance, even in Canada

If you’re skiing out-of-province or across the border, don’t expect your provincial healthcare to cover all the costs of a medical emergency. Same goes for extended medical via group plan or credit card coverage. Have you ever asked HR or your credit card company if your plan covers backcountry skiing? Many Canadians are still surprised to learn that provincial healthcare covers very little out-of-province, and are often left with insurmountable bills. Provincial healthcare won’t cover ground or air ambulances, hospital transfers, or prescription medication.

Travel insurance is especially necessary if you’re backcountry skiing in the US, one of the most expensive medical systems in the world. You can get coverage specific to USA travel, or if you’re just staying in Canada, be sure to mention that when you buy your insurance: travel insurance is much cheaper for Canadians travelling in Canada than in the US. Knowing this might even affect the choice of your next ski destination!

What TuGo’s Emergency Medical Insurance covers

For Canadian backcountry skiers travelling within Canada or abroad, our Emergency Medical Insurance covers:

• Licensed ground, sea or air ambulance (without the hassle of needing pre-approval).

• Emergency air transport from one hospital to another, including from a US hospital to a Canadian hospital. This is particularly helpful for backcountry skiers in remote areas: if the hospital you’ve been transported to cannot adequately treat you, we’ll get you to one that can.

• Out-of-country medical expenses such as:

  • hospital stays and treatment

  • doctor services

  • x-rays

  • medication

  • rental of essential medical appliances

  • dental services

  • family transportation

  • return of excess baggage

  • return of vehicle

  • out-of-pocket expenses

Other types of travel insurance for backcountry skiing:

Multi Trip Annual Emergency Medical Plan

If you travel often, a multi trip annual emergency medical plan is a good idea to save yourself time and money. You can get a plan that covers unlimited trips up to a certain length, and just pay once.

Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance

Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption insurance is also a great idea if you’ve purchased expensive plane tickets, rented vehicles, or reserved huts or hotels in advance. It will help you recuperate your costs if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip if you or someone in your ski party is injured or killed.

Facts about backcountry skiing and travel insurance: it’s not about ‘out-of-bounds’

Many travellers who backcountry ski have a hard time getting a straight answer from other insurers when they ask: “Do you cover backcountry skiing?” Technically speaking, it’s not illegal to ski out of bounds in Canada, but for most travel insurance providers, the defining line between out-of-bounds and off-piste or backcountry can be rather grey.

At TuGo, we define backcountry as a “mountain area that is not marked, not patrolled and/or not cleared for avalanche dangers, but where public access is permitted.” We don’t cover “out-of-bounds”, defined as: “any mountain area that:  Has been closed off to public access; or,  Has been identified as “out-of-bounds” and/or can typically only be accessed by crossing a fenced, gated or roped-off area that has been marked as off limits according to recommendations of safety authorities in the area”.

In essence, backcountry skiers know that looking for travel insurance coverage for backcountry skiing shouldn’t evoke a discussion about ‘rope-ducking’. Too often insurers get things confused.

The main difference between backcountry skiing and rope ducking is the amount of preparedness and safety precautions taken:

Responsible backcountry skiers have avalanche training, a high level of competence using self-rescue equipment (beacon or avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe), knowledge of the terrain and weather reports, and ski companions with the same safety knowledge and procedures.

Rope duckers have none of that: they ignore warning signs and venture unprepared into unpatrolled terrain that’s likely “un-skiable”, dangerous, or impossible to access in rescue situations.

Backcountry skiers knowingly accept the calculated risks, (and the majority return home safely), while rope duckers are simply ill-prepared for the risks. Trained backcountry recreationalists know rope-ducking without the proper avalanche safety training and equipment is just plain dangerous and unwise.

Although Search and Rescue will rescue any injured or lost victim, SAR or the resort’s ski-patrol might charge irresponsible out-of-bound skiers for a costly rescue, like these rope duckers on Grouse Mountain in 2009. They were billed for their rescue costs and banned from the resort for life. Needless to say, travel insurance doesn’t cover this kind of thing.

TuGo Travel Insurance covers “slackcountry” skiing too

You’ll be happy to know that our Emergency Medical Insurance covers slackcountry skiing too if you purchase our Adventure Sports Optional Coverage.

If you’re one of many enticed by cheap lift tickets and easy access to side-country slopes, you’re not alone. Many Canadians and international travellers are trying slackcountry skiing, a hybrid on/off-piste sport. Resorts like Whitewater in Nelson, BC and the famous Whistler Blackcomb now blog about and advertise their passes with access to wilderness terrain. It’s a nice way to avoid the grueling “skin up” the mountain, but holds the same risks and dangers, so the same precautions for backcountry skiing apply.

Take it from a backcountry skiing expert:

Like all self-propelled activities, backcountry skiing is about planning—route and gear selection, watching the weather, and keeping informed from our friends at the Canadian Avalanche Centre. Too often, we forget or ignore to plan for the unexpected consequences. With just a few clicks on a website, many of those contingencies can be easily arranged for a surprisingly reasonable price. -Peter Muir, President of the Alpine Club of Canada

Enjoy those fresh tracks, and happy travels!

Source - Leah - TuGo Insurance

Visitor to Canada Insurance

Are you taking a quick tour, visiting family or friends, or waiting for your provincial healthcare plan to take effect? Has your previous coverage run out and you need to get the best coverage for the active lifestyle in BC. Whatever your situation, you’ll want to get travel insurance coverage before you arrive in Canada.

Canada has a great healthcare system, but if you’re not a resident, you won’t be covered—and medical costs including dental care can be expensive. In fact, the Canadian government recommends all visitors buy health coverage before exploring Canada.

Available as a Single Trip plan, our Visitor to Canada Holiday Package provides comprehensive travel medical insurance coverage for travelers who want it all. This package covers medical emergencies, missed flights and more!

Visitor to Canada Emergency Medical Insurance include

• EMERGENCY DOCTORS SERVICES

• AMBULANCE SERVICES

• X-RAY AND OTHER DIAGNOSTIC LAB TESTS

• PRESCRIPTION DRUGS

• ESSENTIAL MEDICAL SUPPLIES SUCH AS CRUTCHES

• FRACTURE TREATMENT BENEFIT

• PARAMEDICALS SUCH AS PHYSIO ETC TO RELIEVE ACUTE EMERGENCY

• EMERGENCY DENTAL SERVICES

• HOSPITAL ALLOWANCE FOR INCIDENTAL CHARGES

• EMERGENCY AIR TRANSPORTATION (MUST BE PRE-APPROVEDI N SOME CASES)

• RETURN OF EXCESS BAGGAGE

• RETURN OF TRAVELING COMPANION

• RETURN OF CHILDREN / GRANDCHILDREN

• FAMILY TRANSPORTATION

• OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES FOR ACCOMMODATION, MEALS ET

Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance (optional)

• You or your travelling companion’s unexpected sickness, injury and/or death

• A cancelled flight or missed connection due to weather

• Travel visa denials and more

Accidental Death & Dismemberment (optional)

• Air Flight/Common Carrier - injury while riding as a fare-paying passenger on an airplane, helicopter or common carrier (bus, train or boat)

• 24-Hour Accident Insurance

Baggage Insurance (optional)

• Payment for lost, damaged, destroyed or stolen baggage and personal effects, anywhere in the world, on water, land or in the air

5 Reasons Snow Sports Travel Insurance Claims Get Denied

We’ve been watching recent reports from the UK of the most expensive countries for emergency medical assistance, related to winter sports travel insurance claims. And it’s no surprise that Canadian and US costs are the most expensive, for Canadians and foreigners alike.

A snow sport-related claim for a visitor to Canada could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars; even for Canadians, snow sport related travel insurance claims can be pricey, without the emergency medical coverage. All the more reason for visitors planning a ski vacation in Canada, to be properly insured!

We don’t have any hidden rules. We cover winter sports, emergency surgery, and more than 10 days of skiing in a row! We’re often dismayed to see how many travellers have their winter sport claims unnecessarily denied, like in this case: “Piste off your face? The top seven reasons your snow trip travel insurance claims could be rejected”.

Know what is and isn’t covered in your policy, so you can enjoy your snow vacation accordingly. Our travel insurance is comprehensive enough you don’t need special ‘winter sports’ coverage.

Why your snow sports travel insurance claim could be denied

1. An accident that happened as a result of intoxication. So go easy on the après-ski! Abuse of alcohol, or intoxication can be a major reason why a claim would be denied in any emergency travel medical insurance claim.

2. An emergency resulting from intoxication of illegal substance. If it’s illegal, no insurance company will cover you.

3. Any emergencies or accidents if you’re a professional or competing without the proper professional sports coverage. For example, if you’re entering a skiing or snowboarding competition, you’ll need to buy our Adventure Sports Optional Coverage, which may be available through your local insurance broker.

4. An accident or emergency if you’re speed racing with a motorized vehicle (snowmobile, car, truck, etc.). You’ll also need special coverage to cover this kind of event.

5. Skiing or Snowboarding in “out-of-bounds”, defined as: “any mountain area that: Has been closed off to public access; or,  Has been identified as “out-of-bounds” and/or can typically only be accessed by crossing a fenced, gated or roped-off area that has been marked as off limits according to recommendations of safety authorities in the area”. These areas are either temporarily or permanent closed and therefore illegal to cross so the next time you duck a rope, just make sure to identify the signs. Ski Boundary areas are fine to cross, but be prepared!

   Have fun playing in the snow, and happy travels!

The Right Travel Insurance for Your Favorite Winter Sports

Winter is coming, and that means it’s time to get out in the snow and explore Canada’s winter wonderland by enjoying seasonal festivals, holiday activities and various winter sports! Whether you’re setting out on a snowy getaway to channel your inner sports-extremist or tackling your favourite annual winter activity, choosing the right travel insurance policy that provides the best coverage should be at the top of your list. Read on to find out which plan best suits your trip so you can make the most out of your winter!

Your Guide to Winter Sports Travel Insurance

Winter vacations filled with adventure sports can be a ton of fun, but sometimes, those adventures can go awry. Be prepared by having proper travel insurance suited to your winter activities of choice. Start with a solid Emergency Medical plan and add an Optional Sports Coverage plan if you’re partaking in more adventurous sports.Be aware that if you’re travelling out-of-province, your provincial health plan won’t cover extra fees, such as the return of your vehicle, prescriptions, home/private nursing, medical equipment rentals or flying family members to your bedside. When looking for a plan with the best coverage, make sure it covers doctor’s visits, x-rays, hospitalization and emergency air transportation, among other features.

Recreational Winter Activities

Are you a ski or snowboard lover? Maybe you’re trying snowmobiling for the first time, or exploring new terrain by snowshoe. Whatever your next winter adventure may be, TuGo has a travel insurance plan fit for your next holiday. Our basic Emergency Medical plan covers many recreational activities like downhill skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and dog-sledding, just to name a few.

Dog, snow and adventure lover? Try dog-sledding in Whitehorse, Yukon for an experience you’ll never forget!

Grab your snow pants, bring your loved ones, and explore Canada’s best ski resorts knowing you’re covered in the event of any accidents or medical emergencies.

Adventure and Extreme Sports

Are you an adventurer at heart? For all the thrill-seekers out there, TuGo’s Optional Sports Coverages could be just what you’re looking for. Whether you’re ice climbing, mountaineering, bobsledding or backcountry skiing or snowboarding, our Adventure Sports Coverage and Extreme Sports Coverage will have you covered during all of your escapades this winter!

Winter Sports Contests

Thinking of entering a winter sports contest this season? You’re in luck – TuGo also covers travelers competing in contests! If you’re participating in a Motorized Speed Contest for snowmobiling or an X Games contest for snowboarding, TuGo will cover you in case of an accident or medical emergency under the Adventure or Extreme Sports Coverage.

Which Plan Covers Which Sport?

To remember which plan you need for your favorite snow sport, use the chart below to find out which optional coverage plan is suited to your next winter adventure!

Tip: If you’re participating in adventure sports and extreme sports, you’ll need to buy both coverage options to be covered for those activities. For example, if you’re going mountaineering over 6,000m, but also want to try snow kiting, you’ll need to purchase an Emergency Medical plan with the Adventure Sports Option as well as the Extreme Sports Option.

Other Travel Insurance Plans to Consider for Your Winter Vacation

Trip Cancellation & Trip Interruption Insurance

Trip Cancellation is a great idea if you’ve purchased any accommodation or transportation in advance. You never know what emergencies or weather issues can arise before you leave, so it’s best to be covered just in case.

If you’re  traveling to elevated areas or participating in a winter sport such as mountaineering, altitude sickness can also become a reality. Don’t forget that any degree of injury can happen on vacation, and it may be severe enough to send you home, so it’s important to be covered with Trip Interruption insurance as well!

Air Ambulance & Evacuation

Venturing off-piste this winter? Climbing up to high snowy altitudes? It would be wise to think about a travel insurance policy that covers you in case of a high altitude injury that requires immediate medical attention.

Don’t forget to look for helicopter ambulance coverage when buying travel insurance this winter.

The Ambulance benefit in our Emergency Medical plan includes a helicopter ambulance to get you to the nearest medical facility. Our Medical Air Evacuation benefit arranges for transportation to your home country or to another facility for treatment, if required.

Learn more about our Air Ambulance and Emergency Air Evacuation benefits to find out when you’re covered and when you need pre-approval.

Accidental Death & Dismemberment

As hard as it is to think about, accidents do happen – some more severe than others. If you’re participating in any extreme sport, you may want to think about adding Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance to your coverage.

The Right Plan = No Stress

Whatever type of sports lover you are, there’s a plan for everyone. Do your research to make sure you get the right winter sports travel insurance policy, so you’re not stuck in a medical emergency with unwanted fees. If you cover your bases, you’ll have all the peace of mind you need to fully enjoy this holiday season.

Happy snow sporting!

Source - Daisy - TuGo Travel Insurance