Many Canadians assume that travel insurance is only necessary for big trips between countries or over-seas.
While it’s critical to have travel insurance for long-haul travel, even quick weekend getaways within Canada merit coverage.
In October 2025, Calgary resident Chris Fuglerud headed to the Okanagan with friends for a remote camping trip.
He brought his quad across provincial borders with him. During the trip, he took it out for a joy ride that turned into a disaster.
The accident
Fuglerud’s quad rolled over, causing severe spinal damage. When his friends realized how crushing his injuries were, they immobilized his spine, contacted emergency services and led paramedics through brush to him.
He was first airlifted to Kelowna General Hospital then transferred to Vancouver General Hospital.
His injuries were life-threatening and spinal surgery was necessary.
Thankfully, the surgery was a success. At the same time, Fuglerud suffered limited mobility in his arms, hands and legs .
His recovery demanded intensive rehabilitation, specialized equipment, and ongoing medical care.
This is where the financial toll of the accident started to snowball further and further.
Rubbing salt in the wound
Fuglerud’s family found out that he needed a non-emergency medical transfer to Foothills Hospital in Calgary. The approximately $22,000 price tag was covered by Alberta Health.
The cost deterred him from returning to Calgary. Fuglerud chose to stay in Vancouver until he regained enough mobility to make it back to Alberta without an official medical transfer.
With the support of friends and family, he continued rehabilitating from home. Spinal damage is serious business and the healing process can take months if not years.
They created a GoFund Me for Chris Fuglerud that is still accepting donations for his recovery.
The value of travel insurance
The ordeal inspired Fuglerud and his family to encourage Canadians to get travel insurance to prevent the same struggles they endured.
In a news release, his family stated:
“Chris now hopes his story will raise awareness about the importance of having travel insurance for trips within Canada, so others don’t face the same unexpected hurdles,”
Finding the right travel insurance
Travel insurance is not one-size-fits-all. It’s important to evaluate each policy to ensure it meets your needs and wants.
Even with a policy in hand, you could encounter extreme expenses and unforeseen costs.
We highly recommend speaking a licensed financial professional to secure travel insurance suited for your specific travel needs.
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