Alberta, Canada is an explorer’s paradise with its numerous lakes, forests, and uninhabited wilderness. Undulating prairies, alpine mountains, rugged badlands and coniferous forests abound in this region, while ski resorts, UNESCO world heritage sites and diverse wildlife further add to the province’s unique attraction.
Your trip to Alberta is sure to be a memorable one, but make sure you’re prepared before you depart. Purchasing travel medical insurance or trip insurance is the best way to ensure you’ll be covered financially in case of the unexpected.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in Alberta - FAQs
International vacations can be unpredictable. Unexpected accidents or illnesses could result in doctor visits or hospitalization, wreaking havoc on your finances. Travel medical insurance is a relatively inexpensive way to safeguard your budget should the unexpected occur.
Why buy travel medical insurance before traveling to Alberta?
There are a lot of outdoor activities you can choose from during your trip to Alberta. Skiing, hiking, camping, and rafting are all possible here. However, there is always an inherent risk associated with such activities. It’s best to be prepared with proper insurance coverage. Travel medical insurance will let you access emergency healthcare with less worry about medical expenses.
What should I look for in my Alberta travel medical insurance?
Travel medical insurance will cover all emergency medical treatments up to a particular limit. Before you purchase travel insurance, check to see if it includes the following:
- Emergency hospitalization due to accidents, illness, or injury
- Outpatient treatments
- Emergency evacuation
- Repatriation costs
Getting treatment for an illness or injury in a foreign country can be expensive. Purchase travel medical insurance to prevent financial strain due to unexpected medical costs.
Trip Cancellation Insurance for Travelers in Alberta - FAQs
Last-minute disruptions could throw a wrench even in the best-made travel plans. A sudden death in the family, an accident involving a traveling partner or an illness could cause you to cancel your trip. Trip cancellation insurance can compensate for your prepaid expenses. It may also cover other expenses arising due to travel mishaps such as baggage loss or flight delays.
Why should I get trip cancellation insurance for my Alberta travel?
Suppose you land at your transit airport only to learn that all connecting flights have been canceled due to weather. Perhaps your baggage got delayed in transit, and now you need to wait for two days to access essential carry-ons. Don’t get stranded without adequate support. With trip cancellation insurance you can ensure you are covered for most travel mishaps. It can also reimburse your prepaid expenses in case of a last-minute cancellation.
What should I look for in my Alberta trip cancellation insurance?
Typically, trip cancellation insurance can compensate your prepaid travel expenses for certain covered conditions, but it can also do much more. Check to see if your insurance policy includes:
- Flight cancellations and delay
- Trip cancellation due to natural disasters
- Trip cancellation due to sudden death, accident, or injury
- Loss/theft/delay of baggage in transit
- Loss of passport
Some policies will offer more flexible coverage where you can cancel a trip for any reason. Read and compare different policies to get one that best suits your needs.
Alberta’s Most Popular Cities for Travel
Edmonton
The capital city of Alberta has a singular, cosmopolitan vibe you’re sure to enjoy. Walk through culturally diverse neighborhoods like Glenora and Old Strathcona. Visit iconic landmarks like the Muttart Conservatory and the Royal Alberta Museum. Explore the green spaces in Whitemud Park and Fort Edmonton Park. A short ride away from the city will take you to Elk Island National park. Its rolling landscapes dotted with wetlands are a conservatory for bison, elk, moose, and birds.
Calgary
Located east of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is an understated city with plenty to offer. Take a culinary tour, explore its many breweries or visit the iconic Peace Bridge. Participate in the Calgary Stampede that occurs each July. Visit Heritage Park Historical Village for a unique museum experience. You can also make the city your base while you check out the many peripheral attractions. Go hiking on the Trans Canada Trail, or visit Prince Island Park on the Bow River.
Banff
A resort town located within the boundaries of Banff National Park, Banff is one of the must-visit places in Alberta. The home of the Canadian Rockies gives you access to hiking trails, hot springs, gondola rides, and more. Visit Lake Louise to enjoy winter sports and take a sleighride across the snow. Moraine Lakes, Bow Falls and Tunnel Mountain are other iconic landmarks here.
Drumheller
Home to the Canadian Badlands, Drumheller is renowned for its dinosaur digs and unique landscapes. It is an offbeat destination that serves as an ideal base for hiking. Visit Horseshoe Canyon, the eccentric Voodoos, Wayne Ghost Town and more. The Royal Tyrrell Museum is also worth a visit, especially for its paleontological exhibits.
Jasper
This Canadian Rocky Mountain municipality is the commercial center of Jasper National Park. Visit the Columbian icefields, Spirit Island on Maligne Lake, and the Miette Hot Springs. Go hiking through cascading waterfalls and alpine meadows. Dog sledding, kayaking, and rafting are other adventures to experience here.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Alberta
Although Alberta is a relatively safe place for tourists, stay aware of your surroundings and keep these tips in mind:
- Some areas of bigger cities like Calgary and Edmonton can experience petty crime. Do not walk alone at night or leave valuables visible in cars. Lock car doors securely behind you.
- The weather in Alberta can change rapidly. Always pack layers for all seasons. Bring hats and sunglasses to avoid sun exposure. Appropriate warm clothing is a must during winter.
- Do not approach, feed or provoke wild animals. Always keep a distance of at least 100 meters from them. Read brochures at the visitor’s centers for additional safety tips.
- Hunting is prohibited in national parks. Connect with professional outfitters to get a license for hunting. Fishing licenses can be purchased outside national parks at convenience stores and gas stations.
Before You Travel to Alberta - Do This
- There are limitless activities to indulge in during your time here. Make sure you have no health restrictions that could prevent you from enjoying outdoor sports to the fullest, and pay heed to all safety tips.
- Mobile phone coverage can be spotty in national parks and wilderness areas. Carry an offline or printed map when heading outdoors. Follow camping rules and stick to designated areas to avoid risk from wildlife.
- Outdoor activities always carry an element of risk. Be aware of the health hazards associated with any sports and buy travel medical insurance to prevent a mishap from ruining your vacation.