I-TIP: Medical insurance a vacation must-have

No one sets out on a vacation to get sick, break a leg or require hospitalization, but it happens — and when it does, you need to be insured.

Your Canadian health insurance is not valid outside Canada. Manitoba will help you pay emergency doctor and medical bills — but only at a rate established by the province. Anything above that rate is your responsibility. Foreign medical services can be very expensive and may require immediate cash payment. The province won't give you the money up front, and you could face years of debt paying it all off. 

If you're buying travel insurance, you're going to need something that covers health, life and disability coverage — look for something that helps with things such as hospitalization or emergency medical treatment outside Canada.

The government of Canada suggests you buy a plan that covers:

• Pre-existing medical conditions.

• Medical evacuation to Canada or the nearest location with appropriate medical care. The policy should also cover the costs of a medical escort to accompany you to your final destination.

• Repatriation or your remains in case of death.

You can purchase travel insurance through your travel agent, insurance broker or your employer's insurance provider. Some high-end credit cards also offer accident or emergency medical insurance options, so you should get familiar with what your card offers and what its limitations might be.

You should always verify your coverage before you jet off to your destination.