The excitement of travel often comes with a practical question: if I lose my suitcase or my brand-new camera is stolen abroad, will my Quebec home insurance compensate me?
The answer, as is often the case with insurance, is… drumroll… it depends!
1. The Good News: “Property Away from Premises” Coverage
Your home insurance policy (tenant, homeowner, or condo owner) generally includes coverage called
Property Away From Premises.
What does it cover? This coverage protects, subject to certain limitations depending on your policy, your personal belongings (clothing, electronics, sports equipment, etc.) against theft, fire, or certain types of damage, even when they are no longer physically inside your home.
Where am I covered? Usually, this protection extends worldwide.
2. The Bad News: The 3 Major Limitations
This is where home insurance shows its limits compared with a dedicated travel insurance policy, such as those offered through
Securiglobe.
2.1 Coverage Limits (Maximum Amount)
Your protection abroad is not unlimited. It is often capped and is frequently a percentage of your insured contents.
| Type | Total Insured Contents (Home) | Travel Coverage Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Homeowner | 200,000 $ | $20,000 or unlimited depending on the policy |
| Tenant Same principle applies to condo owners |
50,000 $ | $5,000 or unlimited depending on the policy |
In addition, valuable items such as jewelry, watches, furs, cash, or bicycles often have very low sub-limits.
For example, your engagement ring may only be covered up to $2,000, even if your travel property limit is $20,000.
2.2 Deductible
- If you file a claim abroad, you must pay your deductible.
- If your deductible is $500 and your loss is $800, you receive $300.
- Small claims may result in almost no reimbursement.
- A claim could increase your future premiums.
2.3 Important Exclusions
- Loss or accidental misplacement: often not covered (e.g. passport loss).
- Baggage delay: not covered by home insurance.
To be protected against these risks, a comprehensive travel insurance policy is recommended.
Terms and conditions apply. Coverage varies by insurer.
3. Why Dedicated Travel Insurance Is Essential
| Coverage | Home Insurance | Travel Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency medical expenses | No | Yes |
| Trip cancellation / interruption | No | Yes |
| Baggage delay | No | Yes |
| Lost / stolen baggage | Yes (with limits) | Yes (better coverage) |
| 24/7 assistance abroad | No | Yes |
Key Advice: Always purchase travel insurance when travelling outside Canada.
Your home insurance protects your home; your travel insurance protects you and your finances.
4. The Ideal Combination: Full Protection for Your Trip
ClicAssure and Home Insurance: Protect your home while away.
Securiglobe and Travel Insurance: Protect yourself and your trip.
Before your next trip, verify your limits and complete your protection with
Securiglobe
travel insurance.
