As winter approaches, many Canadians are preparing to head south to escape the harsh cold, a lifestyle known as the “snowbird” experience. In a statement, the Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) is stressing the importance of proper preparation to ensure a smooth winter getaway, with health and financial security being the top priorities.
The CSA, in partnership with Medipac International, a travel medical insurance provider, is encouraging travellers to reconsider the risks of travelling without comprehensive medical coverage. While some may view travel insurance as an unnecessary expense, Garry McDonald, president of the CSA, highlighted the potential dangers of travelling uninsured.
“Travelling without supplemental travel medical insurance is not worth the risk,” McDonald said. “Provincial government health insurance plans will only cover a small portion of medical expenses for emergencies outside of Canada.”
CSA noted that even minor health issues or emergencies in the US can quickly result in significant medical bills that can escalate into thousands of dollars without proper coverage. While some Canadians believe their credit cards or employer-provided health plans offer sufficient coverage, these typically come with limits. To avoid unexpected costs, the CSA recommends that all Canadians obtain supplemental travel medical insurance before heading abroad.
In addition to health insurance, the CSA has emphasized the need for travellers to ensure their financial affairs are in order before leaving the country. This includes checking the expiration dates on important documents such as credit cards, debit cards, health cards, and driver’s licenses. Travellers should renew any items set to expire while they are away to avoid disruptions during their travels.
For those spending an average of four months or more each year in the US, there is an additional tax consideration. The US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may classify these individuals as US residents for tax purposes. To avoid filing a US tax return, the CSA advises submitting IRS Form 8840, a closer connection exemption statement that demonstrates a primary residence in Canada.
The CSA, a non-profit organization representing over 115,000 Canadian travellers, advocates for safe, healthy travel without restrictions.
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