The Canadian Snowbird’s Guide to Travel Insurance in 2026

If you’re spending the winter in Florida, Arizona, or Mexico, travel insurance isn’t optional — it’s the most important thing you pack.

Why Snowbirds Are at Higher Risk

• Extended trip length: 3–6 months abroad means more exposure to medical emergencies
• Age factor: Most snowbirds are 60+, when the risk of cardiac events, strokes, and falls increases
• US healthcare costs: The average ER visit in Florida costs $3,000+. A cardiac event can exceed $200,000
• Provincial coverage gap: Ontario pays $0 abroad. BC pays $75/day. Your provincial plan is useless in the US

What Snowbirds Need to Know

Stability Periods

For ages 60–74: your conditions must be stable for 180 days before departure. For 75+: 365 days. Any medication change, new diagnosis, or treatment adjustment within that window can void your coverage.

Multi-Trip Annual Plans

If you make multiple trips per year, TuGo’s Multi Trip Annual plan covers unlimited trips with a 5% renewal discount. Starting at just $0.38/day, it’s significantly cheaper than buying single-trip policies.

The 2-Day Multi Trip Annual

For snowbirds who also take short weekend getaways, TuGo offers a 2-Day Multi Trip Annual plan starting at $48 (ages 0–59) or $110 (60+). Covers unlimited trips of up to 2 days each.

The Bottom Line

A medical evacuation from Florida to Canada costs $40,000–$80,000. A winter of travel insurance costs a fraction of that. Don’t gamble with your retirement savings.

Get your snowbird quote →