Whether you’re off to the cottage, hopping on a flight, or squeezing in a long weekend road trip, summer getaways in Ontario feel well-earned. But in the rush to unplug, a few very real oversights can lead to financial or insurance surprises — the kind that don’t fit in your carry-on.
Here’s your practical pre-vacation checklist, made for Ontario residents, to help protect your wallet, your home, and your peace of mind while you’re away.
🏠 1. Don’t Leave Your Home “Unoccupied”
If your home is empty for more than 4 consecutive days, most Ontario home insurance policies require you to have someone check in regularly — especially during heating season, but even in the summer it’s a good idea. Why? Water damage, break-ins, or power outages can go unnoticed.
Tip: Ask a trusted neighbour or friend to check in, water plants, bring in mail, and open a few blinds. It doesn’t just help with insurance — it also keeps your home from looking obviously empty.
🚗 2. Leaving the Province? Know Your Auto Coverage
Planning to drive into Quebec, or maybe south of the border? Make sure your Ontario auto insurance includes proper liability coverage, especially if you’re renting a car. Some credit cards offer rental insurance — but not all, and not for all vehicle types.
Tip: Double check your OPCF 27 endorsement if using a personal policy for a rental. And remember: if you’re carpooling with friends, not everyone’s insurance covers every scenario.
🩺 3. Out-of-Province = Out-of-Pocket?
OHIP does not fully cover medical costs outside Ontario. If you’re traveling anywhere in Canada or abroad, travel insurance is a must — even a quick visit to a U.S. emergency room could run thousands.
Tip: Some workplace benefits or credit cards offer built-in travel medical coverage — but always check age limits, coverage caps, and whether you need to call ahead to activate. When in doubt – call us and we’ll either point you in the right direction or get you covered.
🔌 4. Pre-Trip Admin That’s Worth It
Set up bill payments: Avoid late fees on credit cards, insurance premiums, or hydro bills
Snapshot your wallet: Take a quick photo of the cards and IDs you’re bringing (and email it to yourself securely)
Update your ICE contacts: Emergency contacts should be current and accessible in your phone
📌 Bottom Line
Travel season is here, and you’ve earned the break — but Ontario life doesn’t pause just because you hit the road. A few smart steps before you leave can save you from the “wish I had known” moment later. Think of it as packing peace of mind.