Planning first-class travel experiences means preparing for the unexpected. Whether it’s trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage, having the right travel insurance credit card ensures you’re protected.

Fortunately, many Canadian credit cards offer comprehensive travel insurance, saving you money while providing peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll explore the top options, comparing their features and benefits.

Why Choose a Travel Insurance Credit Card?

Travel insurance can be costly when purchased separately. However, certain credit cards include this coverage as part of their benefits, making them an excellent choice for frequent travelers. Here’s what to look for in a travel insurance credit card:

• Emergency Medical Coverage – Covers unexpected medical expenses abroad, which can be significant, especially if you require hospitalization.

• Trip Cancellation and Interruption – Reimburses non-refundable expenses if your trip is canceled or cut short due to an emergency or unforeseen event.

• Lost or Delayed Baggage – Offers compensation for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage, which can be a lifesaver when essential items are lost.

• Flight Delay and Trip Interruption – Provides coverage for additional expenses, such as meals and accommodations, if your flight is delayed or your trip is interrupted.

• Rental Car Insurance – Protects you from damages when renting a vehicle, covering both theft and damage for up to a specified number of days.

Many Canadian credit cards go beyond just offering travel rewards—they provide an extra layer of security, particularly when you’re on the go. Now, let’s dive into the top-rated Canadian credit cards offering these benefits.

1. American Express Platinum Card

The American Express Platinum Card is one of the most luxurious credit cards available, offering premium travel insurance alongside many other travel perks.

Key Benefits:

• Emergency medical insurance – Up to $5,000,000 for travelers under 65.

• Trip cancellation/interruption – Up to $2,500 per insured person.

• Lost baggage protection – Up to $1,000 per trip.

• Flight delay and trip interruption insurance – Up to $1,000 per trip.

• Hotel and lounge access – Enjoy access to Marriott Bonvoy hotels and premium airport lounges.

With the American Express Platinum Card, travelers get unparalleled luxury in addition to travel insurance. The comprehensive medical coverage can be vital for those traveling to destinations with limited healthcare resources. Furthermore, access to exclusive lounges such as the Centurion Lounge is perfect for those who want to relax before their flight.

For the serious traveler who enjoys luxury, the Amex Platinum Card provides more than just insurance—it elevates your entire travel experience.

Best for: Frequent travelers who value luxury perks and extensive coverage.

2. Tangerine Cash Back Credit Card

The Tangerine Cash Back Credit Card is a great choice for travelers looking for a simple, no-annual-fee card with decent travel insurance coverage and strong cash-back rewards.

Key Benefits:

• Emergency medical insurance – Up to $1,000,000.

• Trip cancellation/interruption – Up to $1,500 per insured person.

• Lost baggage insurance – Up to $500 per trip.

• Flight delay insurance – Up to $500 per trip.

• Cash-back rewards – Earn cash back on every purchase, with bonus categories.

For those who want to combine cash-back rewards with travel protection, the Tangerine Cash Back Credit Card is a great choice. It’s ideal for those who want to earn rewards on their daily purchases without an annual fee.

While its insurance coverage may not be as high as other premium cards, it offers a solid range of benefits for the average traveler. With bonus categories on travel and a straightforward cash-back structure, this card provides excellent value.

Best for: Those looking for a cost-effective option with decent travel insurance and generous cash-back rewards.

3. Rogers World Elite Mastercard

The Rogers World Elite Mastercard is a popular option among Canadian travelers, offering a combination of great rewards and comprehensive travel insurance coverage.

Key Benefits:

• Emergency medical insurance – Up to $5,000,000.

• Trip cancellation/interruption – Up to $2,500 per insured person.

• Lost baggage protection – Up to $1,000 per trip.

• Flight delay coverage – Up to $1,000.

• Rental car insurance – Coverage for damage and theft.

• Rogers rewards – Earn points on every purchase that can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, and more.

If you’re a frequent traveler looking for high-end travel insurance paired with an excellent rewards program, the Rogers World Elite Mastercard stands out. Not only does it offer extensive coverage, but it also lets you earn Rogers rewards points, which you can redeem for travel and other items. The Rogers World Elite Mastercard is also ideal for those who make significant travel-related purchases, making it a great option for maximizing rewards while maintaining robust travel insurance coverage.

Best for: Travelers looking for strong travel insurance combined with excellent rewards.

4. Platinum Card Amex Canada

The Platinum Card Amex Canada offers similar luxury benefits as the American Express Platinum Card, making it one of the top travel credit cards in Canada.

Key Benefits:

• Emergency medical insurance – Up to $5,000,000.

• Trip cancellation/interruption – Up to $2,500 per insured person.

• Lost baggage protection – Up to $1,000 per trip.

• Flight delay and trip interruption insurance – Up to $1,000.

• Lounge access – Access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide.

The Platinum Card Amex Canada is perfect for those who want to enjoy exclusive travel perks, comprehensive travel insurance, and priority access to airport lounges around the world. The card’s travel insurance features ensure you’re covered in case of medical emergencies, trip interruptions, or delays.

For frequent flyers who value premium treatment, this card offers both practical travel insurance and luxury experiences, such as access to Centurion Lounges and Marriott Bonvoy hotels.

Best for: Those who want comprehensive travel insurance, luxury perks, and access to exclusive lounges.

5. Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards

If you are loyal to Marriott Bonvoy, the Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards are great options for earning points while getting access to premium travel insurance coverage.

Key Benefits:

• Emergency medical insurance – Up to $5,000,000 for travelers under 65.

• Trip cancellation/interruption – Up to $2,500 per insured person.

• Lost baggage protection – Up to $1,000 per trip.

• Flight delay insurance – Up to $500 per trip.

• Rewards points – Earn Marriott Bonvoy points that can be redeemed for hotel stays and travel experiences.

The Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards provide travelers with the perfect combination of insurance coverage and rewards. If you’re planning on staying at Marriott properties, this card allows you to accumulate Bonvoy points that can be redeemed for free nights at Marriott hotels. In addition to the travel insurance coverage, cardholders also receive valuable benefits such as early check-in and late check-out privileges.

Best for: Marriott Bonvoy members who want to earn rewards while getting robust travel insurance benefits.

Choosing the Right Travel Insurance Credit Card

When selecting a travel insurance credit card, consider your travel habits, insurance needs, and additional perks. If you prioritize luxury travel perks, the American Express Platinum Card and Platinum Card Amex Canada are excellent choices. For those looking for no annual fee and solid coverage, the Tangerine Cash Back Credit Card stands out. If you’re loyal to Marriott Bonvoy or prefer earning strong rewards while traveling, the Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards should be at the top of your list.

Many of these cards offer additional benefits that go beyond just travel insurance. For example, access to airport lounges, hotel perks, and concierge services can enhance your travel experience. Moreover, the ability to earn rewards on everyday purchases means you’re essentially getting paid back for your spending.

Maximize Your Travel Insurance Benefits

To make the most out of your travel insurance credit card, it’s important to understand the fine print. For example:

• Activation requirements – Some cards require you to charge the full cost of your travel expenses (such as flights, hotels, and car rentals) to the card for the insurance coverage to apply.

• Pre-existing conditions – Pay close attention to coverage exclusions, particularly related to pre-existing medical conditions. Some cards may have specific requirements or limitations.

• Coverage limits – Be aware of the maximum limits for each type of coverage. For instance, the coverage for trip cancellation might be up to $2,500, but higher costs may not be fully reimbursed.

Find the Best Travel Insurance Credit Cards in Canada

With so many options available, finding the best travel insurance credit card can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in to guide you and assist you in finding the top-rated credit cards for cash back and rewards.

At Great Canadian Rebates, we help you compare and choose the best Canadian credit cards with travel insurance, rewards, and cash-back benefits. Whether you’re looking for Marriott Bonvoy credit cards, the American Express Platinum Card, or the Tangerine Cash Back Credit Card, we have got you covered.