Planning a destination wedding? Here’s what Canadian couples need to know about travel insurance—and which providers offer the best protection for your big day.
Why Travel Insurance Is Essential for Your Destination Wedding
You’ve chosen your resort. You’ve booked the flights. Your guests are packing their bags. But have you considered what happens if something goes wrong?
Travel insurance isn’t just a nice-to-have for destination weddings—it’s a must. From flight cancellations and hurricanes to lost luggage (with your wedding dress inside), a strong insurance policy can protect your investment and your peace of mind.
And after the pandemic? Cancellation coverage is no longer optional.
What to Look For in Travel Insurance for Weddings
Not all travel policies are built for wedding-level stakes. Make sure your coverage includes:
- Trip Cancellation (for you and your guests)
- Trip Interruption
- Emergency Medical Coverage ($1 million+ recommended)
- Lost or Delayed Baggage
- Travel Supplier Default (airline, resort, or vendor bankruptcy)
- Weather or Natural Disaster Coverage
- COVID-19 and Epidemic Protection
- Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) add-on
Look for providers that allow group policies or flexible guest add-ons so your entire wedding party can be protected under one plan.
Top Canadian Travel Insurance Providers for Destination Weddings
1. Manulife Travel Insurance
- Excellent for group travel and wedding-specific coverage
- COVID-19 protection built in
- CFAR add-ons available
- Available through most travel agencies
Best For: Couples booking through agents or hosting large group weddings
2. Blue Cross (Québec and Ontario)
- Great medical, baggage, and trip interruption coverage
- CFAR available on most plans
- Group packages offered
Best For: Couples with guests primarily in Québec or Ontario
3. Allianz Global Assistance
- Global coverage with multilingual 24/7 support
- Ideal for weddings in hurricane-prone or high-risk travel seasons
- Offers event cancellation and CFAR upgrades
Best For: Couples marrying in the Caribbean or during hurricane season
4. TuGo
- Strong COVID-19 protection
- Competitive rates, great baggage coverage
- User-friendly and easy to customize
Best For: Budget-conscious couples who want robust protection
5. Goose Insurance (App-Based)
- Mobile-first platform—buy insurance from your phone
- Great for last-minute coverage needs
- Appeals to tech-savvy couples
Best For: Millennials or couples planning without a travel agent
Related: What to Expect from Your Resort’s Wedding Coordinator
Should Your Guests Get Insurance Too?
Yes—absolutely. While you can’t force guests to buy travel insurance, you can guide them toward it.
Ways to encourage it:
- Add a section to your wedding website about travel insurance
- Include links or provider suggestions in your Save the Dates or email updates
- Ask your travel agent if guest coverage can be bundled into your group package
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Booking before checking what's covered
Some policies only apply if purchased within 48–72 hours of booking your trip.
Skipping CFAR Coverage
It adds cost, but it's the only way to get reimbursed for last-minute changes of heart.
Not checking for pre-existing conditions
Confirm that your coverage includes any existing medical issues for you or your guests.
Assuming your credit card covers it all
Most cards only offer basic trip protection—not full destination wedding coverage.
Final Thoughts
A destination wedding is a major investment. Travel insurance is your safety net.
The best policy is the one that matches your location, group size, and risk tolerance. Whether you're planning in Tulum, Punta Cana, or Jamaica, the right coverage ensures you’re protected if your dress is delayed or your venue cancels last minute.
Don't let your dream wedding turn into a financial nightmare. Insure it.