Have you recently joined your new employer’s group insurance or benefit from a retirement insurance plan? Please be aware that your insurance coverage may vary over time and may include general limitations and exclusions. With the help of our travel insurance experts, here are some tips to follow to be able to fully understand your travel insurance protection.
Facts It is true that government health insurance covers part of the costs in the event of a claim abroad, however, certain costs may not be covered and result in significant out-of-pocket expenses, from a few hundreds to a few hundred thousand dollars !
Protections included in my group insurance? Before starting your shopping process, it is important to know your needs, but especially your current insurance coverage. Usually, group insurance includes an emergency medical insurance component for travel, with varying durations and amounts of coverage. Make sure you know the limits of your group insurance policy before you travel.
If you would like to further enhance your protection, did you know that it is possible to add optional «non medical» coverage, offering cancellation and interruption and protection for your luggage?
A word of advice: before obtaining a quote including trip cancellation and interruption, the value of your trip must be determined in order to properly cover all eligible costs.
Changes to your coverage Over time, your group insurance may undergo certain changes in coverage, often based on age. For example, upon retirement, the number of days allocated per trip or the overall amount of your coverage may be reduced. If you have not traveled for a long time, we recommend contacting your insurer to confirm the details of your current cover. You could also note the variations to come in the coming years in order to avoid surprises.
My group insurance only covers a few days If the duration of your stay exceeds the number of days allocated by your group insurance, it is essential to contact a travel insurance broker to add the excess days. However, be careful, because some companies require that you be insured by the same insurer for the entire duration of the stay for your insurance to be valid.
Plan your stay abroad carefully Are you planning your next trip abroad? Take the time to read and understand the details of your group insurance, this is an important step in determining if your protection is sufficient.
You have questions ? To find out more about our travel insurance products, contact one of our certified representatives at 1-888-211-4444.
Article written by: Bianca Cloutier-Lamoureux
In some countries, unhygienic conditions can increase the risk of contracting certain diseases, such as hepatitis. Before your departure, it is important to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of contamination. Here are some tips to follow to reduce your chances of contracting hepatitis while traveling.
What is hepatitis?
All five forms of hepatitis result from virus infections affecting the liver, each triggered by a different virus. However, hepatitis A and hepatitis B are the most commonly found in travelers. Hepatitis A is transmitted through contact with the stool of an infected person, or through water, raw or contaminated food. For its part, hepatitis B is transmitted during unprotected sexual relations, injection drug use, tattoo sessions, and through the use of personal objects such as razors, manicure tools, or unsterilized medical equipment.
How to prevent
Fortunately, hepatitis A and hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination. However, no preventive treatment is possible for other forms of hepatitis.
In order to protect yourself against hepatitis A and B when traveling abroad, here are some measures to follow:
Avoid destinations considered to be at risk;
Practice good hand hygiene before consuming food or drinking;
Opt for bottled drinks or water;
Avoid drinks with ice cubes;
Avoid brushing your teeth with tap water;
Opt for fruits with peels, for example: bananas, kiwi, oranges, clementines, etc.;
Hepatitis is asymptomatic in most people, some people have symptoms, such as:
A generalized feeling of unease;
Loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain;
Fatigue ;
Fever ;
Insomnia;
Dark urine;
Yellowing of the skin;
Depression.
What are the treatments
Currently, there is no treatment for hepatitis A. People affected recover within a few weeks.
Conversely, most individuals infected with hepatitis B recover, but some (10% of adults) will become chronic carriers.
Take precautions
By carefully planning your trip abroad, the majority of problems encountered while traveling can be avoided. Not only will you have peace of mind, but you will avoid serious repercussions on your health. In addition, we remind you of the importance of obtaining a travel insurance policy before your departure.
For more information, call one of our certified representatives at 1-888-211-4444, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Article written by: Bianca Cloutier-Lamoureux
According to Statistics Canada, more than 32.4 million international travelers visited Canada in 2019. Unlike Canadian residents, visitors to Canada are not covered by the provincial health insurance plan in the event of a medical emergency. Securing a good Visitors to Canada insurance policy before leaving for Canada is an essential step in ensuring a safe and hassle-free trip. If you plan to visit soon, this article is for you!
What are the types of insurance coverage? Visitors to Canada insurance is divided into three parts: Visitors to Canada, Super Visa and International Students insurance. For Visitors to Canada insurance, your coverage can vary between $10,000 and $300,000 with or without deductible, for the duration of your policy. In contrast, insurance for Super Visa requires a minimum coverage of $100,000. International Student insurance provides a 2M$ coverage and covers emergency and routine medical care.
This type of insurance is for:
Visitors planning to stay in Canada for leisure;
Foreign workers;
Newcomers who do not yet have access to provincial health insurance;
International Students;
Expatriate Canadians visiting their families;
Family of Canadian citizens visiting for a long period.
Super Visa Super Visa insurance is a type of insurance offered to parents and grandparents wishing to visit their families. The Super Visa is distinguished by the possibility of multiple entries up to 10 years.
To be eligible for obtaining the Super Visa insurance, the government requires applicants must:
Hold proof of private medical insurance offered by a Canadian insurance company;
This medical insurance must:
Be for a minimum of one year;
Provide emergency medical coverage of at least $100,000;
Cover the costs of health care, hospitalization and repatriation;
Be paid in full or in installments before the policy comes into effect.
International students You want to study inside Canada and you need medical insurance? This insurance specifically designed for international students can cover emergency medical care, dental care, maternity expenses, reimbursement of prescription drugs, an eye exam, a health check, etc. This type of insurance can be compared to group insurance coverage.
Insurance for Visitors to Canada is an essential element when preparing for your trip. Not only does it save you from unforeseen costs in the event of a medical emergency, but it gives you peace of mind for you to enjoy while in Canada.
To obtain an online quote, please click on the button below
.
For more information on products visiting Canada or to obtain a price comparison, contact one of our certified representatives at 1-888-211-4444.
Article written by: Bianca Cloutier-Lamoureux
Like every year, summer is the best time to visit Montreal or to travel abroad. All summer long, the streets of Montreal bring people together to attend many festivals and events. This year, we gathered the 16 music festivals of summer 2023 that will make you vibrate and perhaps discover new destinations!
Montreal International Jazz Festival (June 29 to July 8, 2023) Montreal, Quebec
Like every year, the Montreal International Jazz Festival welcomes thousands of visitors from all around the world. Renowned as one of the biggest festivals in the world, the Jazz Festival highlights several local and international artists. Enjoy this open air event in the streets of Montreal and discover new artists and food tastings!
Tremblant International Blues Festival (July 12-16, 2023) Tremblant, Quebec
For five days, enjoy many free concerts, day and night, throughout this magnificent pedestrian village, Mont-Tremblant!
Montreux Jazz Festival (June 30 to July 15, 2023) Switzerland
If you want to go abroad for a few days, and you are a fan of jazz music, the Montreux Jazz Festival will take place from June 30 to July 15 in Switzerland. Several popular artists like Bob Dylan, Nile Rodgers & Chic, Mavis Staples, Gilberto Gil & Family, Caroline Polachek will be present! Without a doubt, the Montreux Jazz Festival is an experience of a lifetime!
Mad Cool (July 6-8, 2023) Spain, Madrid
Are you planning to travel to Spain soon? The Mad Cool festival will take place this upcoming July, in the heart of Madrid! The festival takes place in the evening, considering of the hot weather. You will find merchandise kiosks, festive cocktails and an incredible programming. The festival features Janelle Monáe, Lil Nas X, Queens of the Stone Age, Lizzo, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Black Keys, Sigur Rós, the 1975, Spoon, Jamie xx and others.
Quebec Summer Festival (FEQ) (July 6-16, 2023) Montreal, Quebec
For more than 50 years, the FEQ has welcomed thousands of festival-goers. This year, you will find on stage very popular artists such as Weezer, The Foo Fighters, Imagine Dragons, Zach Bryan, Les Trois Accords, Lil Durk, Illenium, Les Cowboys Fringants, Pitbull, Lana Del Rey and Green Day! The festival will take place between the Plains of Abraham, the Parc de la Francophonie and at the National Assembley area.
Winnipeg Folk Festival (July 6-9, 2023), Winnipeg, Manitoba
Want to explore Canada? The Winnipeg Folk Festival, located in Manitoba, invites you to enjoy the outdoors, relax and discover your favorite artists with friends! Merchandise kiosks, food trucks will be at your disposal. Artists like Fleet Foxes, Rufus Wainwright, The War on Drugs, Vance Joy and others will be present.
Just for Laughs (July 14 to 29, 2023 indoor festival) (July 20 to 29, 2023 outdoor festival) Montreal, Quebec Back for its 41st edition, the Just for Laughs festival in Montreal will take place in the heart of the Quartier des Spectacles, to offer a host of activities for everyone. Some are currently free and others are paid.
Beaches International Jazz Festival (July 6-30, 2023) Toronto, Canada
Celebrating its 35th edition, the festival will take place throughout July in Toronto. It is one of the largest free Canadian festivals, with over 1,000,000 visitors each year. The festival takes place on multiple stages across the Kew Gardens Bandshell in Toronto beach environments.
Pitchfork Music Festival (July 21-23) Chicago, IL
Do you want to go to the United States for a long weekend? Just a two-and-a-half hour flight from Montreal, the festival returns to Chicago’s Union Park this year, bringing with it three days of festivities for all. You will find a diverse lineup bringing together well-known artists such as Bon Iver, Big Thief, Perfume Genius, Alvvays, and others. Markets, handicrafts, vintage items and food trucks will be available to the festive.
Newport Folk Festival (July 28-30, 2023) Newport, RI
One of the most anticipated festivals of the summer, the Newport Folk Festival has been operating since the 1950s until today. Some popular artists such as Angel Olsen, Jonathan Richman, Orville Peck, will be present. The tickets are unfortunately all sold out, however it is still possible to buy second-hand by chance!
Lollapalooza (August 3-6, 2023) Chicago, IL This long-awaited festival will be presented over four days, offering a diverse program for all genres. As artists, you will find Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish, Tomorrow X Together, Diplo, Lil Yatchy, Lana Del Ray, Red Hot Chili Peppers and others. Like all festivals, food trucks and kiosks for visitors will be at your disposal.
Lollapalooza Paris (July 16 to 18, 2023) Longchamp Racecourse in Paris, France
Passing through Paris? The Lollapalooza also takes place in Paris for its fifth edition on the lawns of the Hippodrome de Longchamp. Artists such as Pearl Jam, Asap Rocky, Imagine Dragons and Pinkpantheress will be performing!
Osheaga (August 4-6, 2023) Montreal, Quebec
Like every year, enjoy the Osheaga festival at Parc Jean Drapeau between August 4 and 6. You will find activities for all tastes, food trucks, art installations by emerging artists, and even more! Artists will perform on different stages throughout the park at different times of the day.
Soniq Island (August 11-13, 2023) Montreal, Quebec
Following the Osheaga Festival, Île Soniq continues from August 11 to 13 at Parc Jean Drapeau. For Dub step, techno and house fanatics, this festival is for the festival lovers! You will find activities for all tastes, food trucks and more.
Outside Lands (August 11-13, 2023) San Francisco, CA
Want to visit California? San Francisco’s Outside Lands Festival traces its origins to the city’s former neighborhood, which became the founding ground of Golden Gate Park founded in 1870. Celebrating its 15th edition, the festival features artists like Kendrick Lamar, Foo Fighters, Odesza, Megan Thee Stallion, Lana Del Rey, Janelle Monáe, Maggie Rogers and more.
Even if you’re only going for a long weekend or a few days, do not forget to get a travel insurance policy before leaving. To obtain an online quote, please click on the button below
.
To speak to a certified representative, please contact us at 1-888-211-4444 Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.
Good discovery!
Article written by: Bianca Cloutier-Lamoureux
Mango Fest — June 22-25, 2023
Mango fanatics? This year, celebrate the 7th edition of the Mango Fest in Key West with family and friends! From June 22nd until the 25th, you will be able to find everything made from mangoes on site! On site, you will find several merchants, restaurants, contests, kiosks to live a 100% mango experience!
Summer Fruit Festival — Homestead — June 25, 2023
The Summer Fruit Festival highlights tropical fruits, educational activities, fruit tastings, contests and games for children and much more! You will find several merchants and food trucks there to take you to the four corners of the world.
Panhandle Watermelon Festival — Chipley — June 24-25, 2023 The Panhandle Watermelon Festival is not just about watermelons!
Are you a collector car enthusiast? There you will find the PQF car show for only $15, displaying vintage cars.
On site, there will be several contests to win, Food Trucks and a free music festival!
Best of Miami — June 28, 2023 — Marlins Loandepot Park Come celebrate the 36th edition of the Best of Miami festival on June 28 at Marlins Loandepot Park and enjoy all that Miami has to offer!
Admission gives you unlimited food, appetizers and cocktail tastings, attractions for everyone, live shows and more!
Key Lime Festival — June 30-July 4, 2023 The Key Lime Festival is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated festivals in Florida! Each year, this festival celebrates the famous birth of the Key Lime Pie, and its origin! The event takes place on a five-day itinerary, featuring several culinary events to suit all tastes. Key West really remains one of the favorite places for Canadian snowbirds, whether for a long weekend, or for a week, you will come back with a full heart!
Water lantern festival — Orlando — July 15, 2023 The Lantern Festival in Orlando is more than an event, but an unforgettable experience!
This annual event brings everyone together to create an atmosphere of hope, unity and happiness through more difficult times. The lanterns are made from wood and rice paper and are 100% eco-friendly.
Riverwalk Tacos & Tequila Fest — July 22, 2023 – 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy the taco and tequila festival in Fort Lauderdale! You will find different merchants offering a variety of tacos from different regions, live music and refreshing cocktails.
Key West Lobsterfest — Key West — August 10-13, 2023 This year marks the 26th anniversary of Key West Lobsterfest! Every year, this festival welcomes thousands of tourists and locals to celebrate the start of the lobster season! You will find live music, activities for children and of course, lobster tasting.
No matter your destination, going abroad requires a certain level of planning to ensure your peace of mind while traveling. For many, travel insurance can seem like a complex task. With the help of experts, it is possible to make your experience more pleasant. Here are five must-have tips to help you prepare before your search for travel insurance begins.
Up-to-date health check
During the medical questionnaire, most insurers require a health check carried out between the last 12 to 24 months. Ideally, if your health check is within the last 12 months, your rate will be reduced. Some insurers add a surcharge if your balance sheet is dated beyond 18 months. The health check is not only an essential step before leaving on a trip to ensure that your state of health is stable, but also to know your medical conditions well. In addition, it will save you money!
Medical conditions and treatments
Be aware that when you get a travel insurance quote, a medical questionnaire is required to find out about your medical conditions. Your insurance representative cannot associate a drug with a medical condition or give a diagnosis. It is therefore necessary to know which treatment is associated to which medical condition. If uncertain, contact your family doctor to avoid an incomplete declaration.
Medication list
To follow up on medical conditions, it is always recommended to have your medication list up to date. For your medical conditions to be covered while travelling, it is essential to know the date you started your first treatment, for each medication or treatment prescribed. In the event of discontinuation, change in dosage or frequency of a treatment, it is necessary to know the date of discontinuation or change and notify your certified representative. In addition, if you are awaiting consultation, treatment or surgery, certain conditions may be excluded. In case of uncertainty, we recommend that you contact your family doctor.
Plan your trip
Before getting a price comparison, it is necessary to know your approximate travel dates and your destination. If you are planning more than two trips this year, just know that we offer annual plans offering the possibility of covering several trips without having to pay any other costs. The number of days allocated is determined according to your needs. If your annual plan allows you to take multiple 17-day trips at once, no further fees are charged. However, if one of your trips exceeds 17 days, you can add additional days at your expense.
Traveler(s)?
Are you traveling alone or are you going on an accompanied trip? If you wish to obtain a travel insurance quote for your companion or a member of your family, be aware that it is necessary to obtain verbal consent in order for you to proceed. The medical questionnaire can sometimes be a complex part if one does not know enough about the health condition of the person concerned. Thus, we recommend being present with the person who accompanies you at the time of the call or during your online quote if you wish to obtain a quote together.
To obtain a price comparison for travel insurance from one of our certified representatives, please contact us at 1-888-211-4444.
We are pleased to announce the winner of the “Get a chance to win $3000 travel expenses” contest. Ms. L. Desjardins, Securiglobe’s client for multiple years, travels to Florida every winter with her husband. Passionate about traveling, they already have several destinations checked off their bucket list, such as: Greece, Spain, Italy…
We are convinced that inspiration will be there for your next trip…
Happy 50th wedding anniversary.
The Securiglobe team
Stay tuned for our next contests.
In today’s health-conscious and more environmentally friendly economy, it’s a great time to go meatless or vegan. Generally speaking, everywhere you go, there are plant-based alternatives in grocery stores, on restaurant menus, and in take-out joints. Take fast-food chains like McDonald’s with their new P.L.T. and Tim Horton’s with their Beyond Meat breakfast sandwiches. Vegan/Vegetarian dishes are not just a last-minute omission of meat and cheese or a plate full of uninspired salad delivered to your table anymore: this type of cuisine is becoming an integral part of the culinary scene.
Of course, vegan and vegetarian cooking has always been around. Take, for example, countries like India and Israel, where a large percentage of their population avoids different types of meat. It has not been until recently that mainly carnivorous nations like Canada and the U.S. have embraced a more plant-based diet. This bodes well for the plant-based traveller.
Here’s a roundup of the best vegan/vegetarian eats around the world, according to the density of choice and quality of taste.
1. India
Over 30% of India’s population adheres to a vegetarian diet and veganism is a growing trend. Although meals are often prepared with ghee, dairy products, and cheese (paneer), these animal ingredients are easily replaceable with healthy and flavourful oils such a mustard and coconut. It is doubtful that one could become bored with all the variety of spices and curries available in India! Be mindful when indulging that many baked goods are made with hidden milk powder and eggs. If you are interested in Ayurveda, India is a great place to start incorporating the ancient health system into your diet and lifestyle.
2. Israel
Falafel may not have been invented in Israel, but it is here that someone had the brilliant idea to place it into a pita. Vegetarians and vegans can enjoy the best falafel pitas accompanied by naturally vegan and delicious hummus and no shortage of elaborate salads. Jerusalem is known for its vibrant food markets, and if you venture into Tel Aviv, visit Nature Boys for vegan burgers, described by a happy customer as “love at first bite.”
3. Germany
Germany is high up on the list of countries with elevated rates of vegetarianism and Berlin, in particular, is a hub for vegans seeking good eats and “woke” companionship. Many Germans are open-minded about food preferences and practices. They are ditching the meat for vegan alternatives such a spicy tofu and tasty beetroot hummus Buddha bowls. Rated the number two most vegan-friendly city in the world by HappyCow, Berlin is welcoming more and more vegan restaurants.
4. Thailand
Vegans and vegetarians can rejoice in the selection of fresh and local ingredients offered at Thailand’s endless fruit and vegetable markets. Vegans love Bangkok and Chiang Mai, for dining out and shopping for groceries. Keep in mind that many homes and hostels do not have ovens, so if you crave something warm, finding a favourite restaurant might be your best bet.
5. United Kingdom
Put your ideas of English breakfasts, meat and potatoes, fish and chips, and haggis aside because the U.K. has some of the best vegan food on the planet—you just need to know where to look. London, England has close to 500 vegetarian and/or vegan options listed on HappyCow and is pushing back against the stereotype of having bland food. It has places like Farmacy, 222 Vegan Cuisine, and Temple of Seiten, where their entrees taste like meat but are 100% vegan!
6. Malaysia
Malaysia is a melting pot of cuisine from the ethnicities who live there—Malay, Chinese, and Indian—with an infusion of flavour from their Thai neighbours. Kuala Lumpur is not only easily accessible by flight from many places but is a vegan haven with all its colourful fresh fruit and vegetable markets. And very cheap! You can get yummy tasting inexpensive tofu and many comfort foods from home—like British marmite if you’re into that.
7. Indonesia
You might be living under a rock if you haven’t scrolled through Instagram at least once to find a sun-kissed social media influencer lounging under a cabana with an acaï bowl in one hand and a green juice in the other, raving about their life-affirming trip to Bali. Indonesia, especially Bali, is a friendly hotspot for vegetarians and vegans. Indonesian food with staples like noodles (mie goreng), tempeh, rice (nasi goreng), tofu, and curries are inherently vegetarian and delicious.
Chances are if you’re reading this, you’ve already embraced a vegetarian/vegan diet and love to travel. For those on the fence, hopefully, this guide will inspire you to try new plant-based cuisine when you’re eating abroad! Because your body is your temple, don’t leave home without a proper travel insurance plan. Contact your travel insurance representative for a solution that will give you peace of mind for your foodies adventures abroad.
When one dreams of North American wine, your mind might wander down to Napa Valley, California. Instead, we’ll take you into the heart of Ontario, continue westwards to the Okanagan Valley, and do a circle tour of the best off-the-beaten-track wineries within the USA.
Whether you choose one destination or hop on an RV to all 15, there’s no doubt you’ll impress all your friends back home with your newfound wine knowledge and unique travel adventures.
Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada
Prince Edward County, an island on the north shore of Lake Ontario, is truly an escape from the city rush (only a 2-hour drive from Toronto) and a quieter alternative to exploring the Niagara wine region. Wow yourself with a trip to Sandbanks Winery with multiple picturesque spots on the estate to try their wines, including an outdoor fire pit. If you prefer a smaller venue, dip into The Grange of Prince Edward for a sip and see where the staff will pre-pack picnics for you to enjoy on the farmyard grounds.
Okanogan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
It’s not often that you come across a place that subtracts the tasting fee from the price of a bottle, but that’s what The Vibrant Vine in Kelowna is all about! Nestled in the valley, this winery treats visitors to a fusion of excellent wines (including ice wine), 3D art and live music on the weekends. Sumac Ridge Estate Winery is another must-see: it was the first estate winery to open in British Columbia with a cabernet merlot that keeps locals and tourists coming back for more.
Traverse City, Michigan, USA
When you think of Michigan, you might think of cars, not wine. But Michigan’s glacial soil is sandy with good drainage, making for good grapes and happy wine drinkers. From Old Mission to Traverse City, here are some top-notch wineries to enjoy along the way: Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, and Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery to name a few. You may want to book a bed & breakfast stay at The Inn at Chateau Grand Traverse for after, just in case!
Finger Lakes, New York, USA
Linger a little longer up north to see the leaves turn their seasonal shade of yellow, orange, and red. Speaking of red, there’s a bold glass of it waiting for you to swirl and savour in the Empire state. First stop? Thousand Island Winery, where you can try upwards of 22 types of wine, including wine slushies! Rest up and enjoy the Hudson River view at Benmarl Winery in Marlboro. Red Newt Cellars in Hector is another must-see, especially if you’re hungry. Drop in for their well-reviewed three courses tasting meal.
New England, Maine, USA
The appeal of New England not only lies in their buttery lobster dishes and clam chowder. Wine is an up-and-coming east coast “Maine” attraction. Tucked between Cape Cod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, you can taste lovingly produced wine on the beach at Truro Vineyards or tour a 200-year-old barn while sipping on estate vintages at the Cellardoor Winery & Vineyard, an upscale winery and event space that hosts art nights and holiday bazaars.
Natchez Trace Wine Trail, Tennessee, USA
Natchez Trace Parkway is a winding scenic drive through Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee. It loosely follows the path of European settlers, natives, slave traders, and soldiers. Knock a few swigs back for old time’s sake with a quick stop in Tennessee. Amber Falls Winery & Cellars is a hidden gem off-the-trail offering raspberry wine alongside bites of dark chocolate. Grinder’s Switch Winery is nestled in the backcountry and affords you the unique opportunity to sip languidly in the sunshine or chug swiftly in a log cabin.
Willamette Valley, Oregon, USA
Oregon is home to nearly 800 wineries and is the fourth-largest state producer of wine, thanks to the passionate growers who work tirelessly to bring grapes to glass. The pinot noir and pinot gris season kicks off in September to November in Willamette Valley—perfect timing for snowbirds! Willamette Valley Vineyards has winemaking down to a science and welcomes travellers to enjoy the fruits of their labour any time of year. Be sure to also check out Winter’s Hill Estate, where the third-generation owners welcome dogs to come along and offer equestrian wine tours in the countryside.
It goes without saying that you should not drink and drive! Many vineyards will offer guided tours that include transportation, so take advantage of this service. Most importantly, don’t forget to contact your travel insurance representative to find the best plan for your needs.
Oh, the places you’ll go if you’ve read this far and haven’t started drinking the good stuff yet. Happy wine touring!
Finding the perfect campground to park your RV should be simple. Drive up, plug in and enjoy. If you’re a Canadian Snowbird spending your winters down south, you’ll want to spend the least amount of time and energy researching and choosing where to stay. We’ve taken the hassle out of planning for you with this easy RV Campground Guide.
Step 1. Choose your destination.
It’s generally easy to find and compare destinations online and read trusted reviews from fellow campers before you even venture out on the road.
Websites like GoodSam, GoRVing, TripAdvisor, and CampgroundReviews include user ratings and reviews for campgrounds all over North America. You can filter the results to find the amenities that are most important to you, like swimming, internet access, laundry facilities, and more.
If you don’t have a specific location in mind, you can do a top-down search of an entire state to find the most recommended RV parks and campgrounds. If you’re a people person, you might even consider choosing a destination based on who’s going to be there and what’s going on. Jump on Meetup.com to search groups and events in the area.
Step 2. Pick your camping style
When on the road, do you prefer to camp in style or are you a no-frills, roughing-it-in-the-wilderness type? Choose your campground based on your desired camping style. Luxurious campsites may provide complimentary barbecues, picnic tables, and even a shared clubhouse to socialize in. More off-the-grid campgrounds (like the ones in National Parks) may trade top-notch amenities for spectacular views: think water and sewer hookups, a fire pit, and that’s it.
Are there any special accommodations you require during your stay? Perhaps you’ll be travelling with a grandchild or young family members; you might want to make sure there’s a safe playground or beach nearby. Or if you have a pet, priority will be finding a campground with a pet-friendly policy and ample space to run around.
Knowing your preferences ahead of time isn’t necessary (especially if it’s your first time RVing), but having an idea of your wants and needs can help tailor your experience for the better.
Step 3. Plan your stops.
The goal is to reach your destination safely, but make sure to savour the journey along the way. Sometimes the fastest route is not always the best or most scenic. Build some wiggle room into your schedule for impromptu stops and overnights. Should you come across a town or landmark that you’d like to explore further, you can use an app like RV Life to see if there’s an RV campground nearby.
Online or via an app, you can find the best accommodation for your personal preference with a few finger taps. Scoping out the park in advance of arrival will save you the dreaded moment of realizing the park lacks what you need, like adequate parking space, the wrong number of hookup amps, or the absence of running water when all you want to do is take a shower.
Step 4. Know your amperage.
Amperage is the volume of electricity that can be sent at one time. Most RVs come equipped with 30-amp service or 50-amp service. If your RV has a 30-amp service cord, the plug will have 3 prongs and can handle service up to 3,600 watts, meaning you can’t plug in too many things at once. If your RV has a 50-amp service cord, the plug will have 4 prongs, and you can use more electricity—up to 12,000 watts at the same time. Hooking up a 30-amp to a 50-amp or vice versa is completely doable, you’ll just need to purchase an adapter if your amperage does not match that which the campsite offers.
Research what kind of hookups the campsite provides ahead of time to avoid any surprises. Some RV campgrounds provide both 30-amp and 50-amp service, but some only offer one or the other.
Step 5. Think before you pack.
Full hookups with electricity, water, and sewer service are ideal, but not always available. There’s no sense bringing oodles of appliances if you won’t have the electricity to power them. Determine what amenities the campground provides before loading up your RV with supplies. Some campgrounds may have on-site general stores for restocking food and toiletries.
Maybe you’re going for an extended stay and don’t want to miss out on receiving your mail. Check ahead with the campground to see if you can forward your mail to them. In a pinch, perhaps you can even send your online purchases there. Don’t assume: always call ahead to make sure.
Step 6. Recharge, Relax, Repeat.
Pat yourself on the back for a drive well driven. You’ve made it, you have everything you possibly need, and squabbles were squashed along the way with happy sights and timely stops. Crack a beer, toast some S’mores, and enjoy the escape from reality you deserve.
Many Canadian Snowbirds will take to the skies, roads, and lakes to escape to the sunnier south this year. Don’t tell the others, but we think RVing is the most comfortable and enjoyable way to go. Before you cross the border, make sure your travel insurance is in order. Contact your travel insurance representative to find the best plan to fit your road tripper’s needs.
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