Before you jump out of that plane or ski off into the deep powder, read your policy’s fine print or double-check with your insurance agent about the details of your policy. As a preview, here are five daring—yet fairly common—activities that standard travel medical insurance policies aren’t likely to cover.
Skydiving
Leaping out of a plane may not be everyone’s idea of fun, but it has its dedicated fans. According to Edmonton Skydive, approximately 35,000 Canadians visit skydive schools across the country each year to take the plunge.
While reliable Canadian statistics are hard to come by, a 2019 report by the International Skydiving Commission found that there were only 44 fatalities in 6.89 million jumps made by 1.53 million jumpers in 46 countries. In addition, serious injuries requiring hospitalization occur in fewer than two per 10,000 cases, or 0.044%, according to a report published by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.
Still, accidents do happen, whether it’s due to landing badly or a mechanical failure with a parachute.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is a way to explore a special underwater world. But even as new technology and regulations improve safety, scuba diving still isn’t without risks.
The most recent Divers Alert Network DAN Annual Diving Report (2020 Edition) reported a total of 189 diving fatalities worldwide in 2018 and close to 2,000 reported injuries stemming from a host of diving-related issues, such as decompression sickness and immersion pulmonary edema.
Even snorkelling, which doesn’t require high-tech gear or any certifications, has its risks: Out of 189 reported fatalities, 59 were classified as breath-hold divers. It, too, may not be covered under standard medical travel policies.
Mountain Climbing
There’s no standard set of risks for mountain climbing, but that doesn’t mean your insurance company will give you a pass. While some hikes may be no more dangerous than walking down your neighbourhood sidewalk, others require expert skill and technical gear. Many things can go wrong on a mountain, from falling rocks to steep descents and heat- and altitude-related illnesses. That’s why some travel insurance policies exclude injuries from climbing.
Bungee Jumping
Bungee jumping is an adrenaline-spiking activity that just about anyone can do. It doesn’t require special equipment or even training—just the courage to make the leap and trust the thick elastic cord. Fatalities are rare, but due to the cord’s forceful snapback, injuries to eyes, neck and spine can occur. You will probably have to get specialized or added insurance coverage.
Backcountry Skiing or Snowboarding
Skiing or snowboarding outside of designated or marked trails–also known as backcountry skiing–is usually excluded from most travel medical insurance policies. At some resorts, “illegal” backcountry skiing is punished by the confiscation of lift passes. In the powder, hidden rocks or fallen trees can lead to falls or collisions. A major cause of injury and fatality is avalanches. According to Avalanche Canada, 15 people died from avalanches in B.C. during the first four months of 2023.
