RV and Camper Insurance for Summer Road Trips

At Merit Insurance, we understand the excitement that comes with hitting the road in your RV or camper. Whether you’re parking beside a quiet lake, exploring the Rockies, or road-tripping across provinces, your RV isn’t just a vehicle; it’s your summer home.

Why RV and Camper Insurance Is Important

Many RV owners assume their trailer or motorhome is covered under their home or auto policy. In reality, those policies often fall short, especially when it comes to damage, liability, or protection for personal belongings.

Dedicated RV insurance can provide coverage for:

• Physical damage – Accidents, fire, storms, vandalism, and more
• Liability – In case someone is injured in or around your unit
• Theft or damage to contents – Including electronics, tools, and camping gear
• Emergency expenses – Hotel or travel costs if your RV becomes unusable far from home

If your RV is financed or leased, full coverage is typically required.

Tailored to Your Type of RV and Camper

Different RVs need different types of insurance. We’ll help you choose what’s right:

• Motorhomes (Class A, B, or C): These self-powered units require their policy, similar to auto insurance.
• Travel trailers, fifth-wheels, and pop-ups: These are towable and may be added to your auto policy, but a separate policy offers more complete protection.

If you’ve invested time and money in your RV, it makes sense to ensure it’s adequately insured.

Seasonal Use? We’ve Got You Covered

Most RVs in Canada are used seasonally. That’s why we offer flexible insurance options that reflect how and when you use your camper.

Some plans even include storage protection, covering theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage while your unit is parked for the off-season.

Optional Add-Ons for Extra Coverage

Depending on your travel plans, we can help you customize your policy with:

• Roadside assistance
• Protection for attached accessories – like awnings, bike racks, and solar panels
• Coverage for rental income – if you rent out your RV occasionally

Let’s Get You Road-Trip Ready

Before you hit the road this summer, make sure your RV or camper is insured for whatever the journey brings. At Merit Insurance, we’ll walk you through your options, explain what’s covered, and help you travel with confidence.

Reach out to us today to learn more about RV and camper insurance and get ready for a smooth, worry-free summer adventure.

Travel Insurance for Long Weekends

At Merit Insurance, we understand how valuable long weekends can be. They’re a chance to recharge, explore somewhere new, or spend quality time with friends and family. But even short getaways are uncertain; weather disruptions, delays, or unexpected health issues can quickly derail your plans. That’s where travel insurance comes in.

While many people associate travel insurance with longer, international vacations, it can be just as crucial for quick weekend trips. If you’re leaving your home province, even for a few days, your provincial health coverage might not fully cover medical care in another part of Canada. Travel insurance can help cover those gaps.

Why Travel Insurance Matters for Short Trips

• Emergency Medical Expenses: If you require medical attention while away, you may be surprised by what your provincial health plan does not cover. Travel insurance can help cover ambulance fees, hospital visits, or doctor consultations while out of town.
• Trip Cancellation or Interruption: No one likes to think about cancelling a trip, but weather delays, illness, or family emergencies can happen. Travel insurance may reimburse you for non-refundable costs such as accommodation or transportation.
• Lost or Delayed Baggage: If your bags don’t arrive at your destination or take longer than expected, travel insurance can help cover the cost of replacing essential items like clothing or toiletries.
• Rental Vehicle Coverage: Are you planning to rent a car during your weekend away? Some travel insurance policies include optional coverage for rental vehicles, which can help protect you in the event of damage or theft.

Coverage That Fits Your Plans

Whether heading to a nearby city, a remote cottage, or a national park, it’s worth considering how a travel insurance plan can support you. Some people choose single-trip coverage, while others prefer multi-trip plans that cover all their weekend getaways throughout the year.

Plan Before You Head Out

At Merit Insurance, we help make sense of your travel insurance options, so you can head into your weekend feeling ready. If you’re planning a getaway, we’re here to discuss what kind of coverage works best for your trip and ensure nothing important gets overlooked.

Call us before you zip up your suitcase, and we’ll help you prepare for the road ahead.

Holiday Travel Insurance: Confidence for Your Festive Journeys

The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and reconnecting with loved ones—often involving travel. Whether you’re heading across the country to visit family or embark on an international adventure to escape the winter chill, travel insurance can be your trusted companion. At Merit Insurance, we understand that travel plans can sometimes go awry. That’s why we’re here to ensure you have the protection you need so you can focus on making memories, not worrying about the unexpected.

Let’s explore why holiday travel insurance is essential to your festive preparations.

1. Trip Cancellations or Interruptions

Imagine meticulously planning your holiday getaway, only to have an unforeseen event—like an illness or a flight disruption—derail your plans. Travel insurance can help reimburse the costs of non-refundable flights, accommodations, and bookings. With the right coverage, your financial investment in the holiday season stays protected, even if plans change.

2. Medical Emergencies Abroad

No one wants to think about falling ill or getting injured during a trip, but these scenarios can happen. Healthcare costs can be exorbitant outside Canada, especially in the United States or remote destinations. Travel insurance ensures access to emergency medical care without the burden of unexpected expenses. A Merit broker can tailor a plan to cover medical emergencies, giving you confidence as you explore the world.

3. Lost or Delayed Baggage

The excitement of arriving at your destination can quickly fade if your luggage doesn’t. Whether your bags are lost or delayed, travel insurance can cover the cost of essentials, helping you stay comfortable while your belongings catch up with you. After all, no one should have to buy a new winter coat because theirs didn’t make it to the snowy getaway.

4. Coverage for COVID-19-Related Interruptions

Travel in recent years has come with added uncertainty. Many travel insurance plans now offer specific coverage for COVID-19-related disruptions, including medical treatment and quarantine costs. Speak to a Merit broker to ensure your policy accounts for these potential challenges so you can travel more confidently.

5. Protection for Your Holiday Adventures

If your festive plans include activities like skiing, snowboarding, or scuba diving, you’ll want to ensure your policy covers adventure-related risks. Standard travel insurance may not account for injuries or mishaps during high-risk activities, but a broker can help customize coverage to match your holiday itinerary.

Plan with Merit Insurance

The holidays are about spending time with loved ones, not worrying about logistics. Working with a dedicated broker lets you find a travel insurance policy that fits your needs and plans. From medical emergencies to unexpected cancellations, having the right coverage lets you focus on what truly matters—making the most of your holiday season.

Before you pack your bags, click here to get a Travel Insurance quote or contact Merit Insurance Brokers to explore your travel insurance options. Whether you’re travelling domestically or abroad, we’ll ensure you have the protection you need for a stress-free holiday journey.

Don’t let travel worries dampen your festive spirit—let Merit Insurance be your partner in worry-free holiday adventures.

Bundling Your Insurance Lines for Optimal Coverage – The Merit Difference

In today’s fast-paced world, managing various insurance policies across different providers can be a daunting task. Keeping track of premiums, renewals, and policy details can quickly become overwhelming. With Merit Insurance, you’re not just another policyholder – you’re a valued client, and we take pride in understanding your unique needs and concerns. In this blog we will explore the advantages of bundling your insurance lines and how our brokers can create a custom protection plan for you.

1. A Comprehensive View of Your Insurance Needs

Our experienced brokers gain a holistic understanding of your lifestyle, assets, and liabilities when you consolidate your insurance lines with us. This comprehensive view allows us to identify potential gaps in coverage and recommend tailored solutions to ensure you’re adequately protected.

2. Cost-effective Bundling Options:

Bundling your insurance lines with Merit can lead to increased savings. By combining policies like auto, property, recreational, or business under one roof, you unlock the potential for multi-policy discounts. This means more value for your hard-earned money without compromising on coverage.

3. Simplified Management and Administration:

Dealing with multiple insurance providers can be time-consuming and confusing. By consolidating your policies with Merit, you streamline the administrative process. Our tailored approach makes it easy for you to access policy information, make changes, and handle claims efficiently with one broker.

4. Tailored Solutions with the Merit Difference:

We understand that every client’s insurance needs are unique. That’s why we offer personalized, one-on-one service that we call the Merit Difference. Our brokers take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and craft insurance solutions that align with your goals.

5. Access to a Wide Range of Insurance Lines:

We’re proud of the relationships we have with a variety of Canada’s top insurers and the extensive insurance offerings to our clients. Whether you’re safeguarding your family home, protecting your business assets, or auto, we have the right coverage for you.

6. Guidance for Informed Decisions:

Our seasoned brokers are well-versed in the intricacies of the insurance industry. We stay up-to-date with the latest trends, regulations, and products to provide you with informed recommendations. You can trust us to guide you towards the most suitable coverage options for your specific circumstances.

Entrusting Merit Insurance with all your insurance lines offers you a host of advantages, from a more complete view of your needs to potential cost savings through bundling. Our personalized approach and wide range of coverage options make us the ideal choice for safeguarding your assets and securing your future.

Experience the Merit Difference today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having all your insurance needs met under one roof. Contact us to explore how we can tailor a comprehensive insurance solution just for you.

The Impact of Summer Weather on Your Insurance Policies in Ontario

When summer arrives in Ontario, so do a variety of weather conditions that can significantly impact our lives. From thunderstorms and hailstorms to heatwaves and flooding, these weather events pose potential risks and challenges. In this blog, we will explore the implications of summer weather on your insurance policies in Ontario.

1) Home Insurance

Summer weather brings with it an increased risk of severe storms and flooding. Homeowners should review their insurance policies to ensure they have adequate coverage. Standard home insurance policies typically cover damage caused by windstorms or hailstorms, but coverage for flood damage may require additional coverage or a separate policy. Understanding your policy’s terms and conditions, deductibles, and coverage limits is crucial. Consider taking preventative measures such as maintaining proper drainage systems, clearing gutters, and elevating valuable items to minimize potential damage.

2) Auto Insurance

Summer weather can also affect your auto insurance. Thunderstorms, heavy rain, and hail can lead to accidents and damage to vehicles. Comprehensive auto insurance typically covers weather-related damages such as hail dents or flooding. However, it’s essential to review your policy to ensure it provides the necessary coverage. If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider purchasing comprehensive coverage that includes protection against water damage. Remember to document any damage with photographs and report it to your insurance provider promptly on our MyMerit app. Summer weather also brings increased foot traffic. Cars are more prone to vandalism or theft during the warmer months.

3) Cottage or Recreational Property Insurance

Many Ontarians own cottages or recreational properties that they enjoy during the summer months. However, these properties are vulnerable to the impact of summer weather. Heavy rainfall or windstorms can cause significant damage, and the remoteness of some locations may make repairs more challenging and expensive. Review your cottage or recreational property insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for weather-related risks. This may include coverage for windstorms, hail damage, and water damage. Additionally, consider adding liability coverage to protect yourself against potential accidents or injuries that may occur on your property.

4) Travel Insurance

Summer is a popular time for travel, but it’s important to consider the potential impact of weather-related disruptions. Severe storms can lead to flight cancellations, delays, or even complete trip cancellations. When booking travel, consider purchasing travel insurance that includes coverage for trip interruptions or cancellations.

Travel insurance covers weather-related delays or cancellations if they result in a delay of at least 30% of your trip on the scheduled common carrier and you decide not to travel. Additionally, if you miss a connection or have to interrupt your trip due to a delay caused by weather conditions, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions affecting your connecting private passenger vehicle or common carrier, the insurance will provide coverage. The connecting vehicle or carrier should have been scheduled to arrive at your point of boarding at least two (2) hours before the scheduled departure time. Review the policy to understand the specific terms and conditions related to weather-related claims.

As summer weather in Ontario brings various risks and challenges, it is crucial to ensure that your insurance policies adequately cover potential damages and disruptions. Regularly review your policies, communicate with your Merit insurance broker, and make any necessary adjustments to protect yourself and your assets from the impact of summer weather events. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay protected throughout this beautiful season.

March Break Travel

The loosening of travel restrictions in Canada is flying in just in time for March Break. For the first time since the pre-pandemic ages, many families are planning on vacationing out of the country.

Effective February 28th, Canada eased entry restrictions for fully vaccinated international travellers. In the wake of declining COVID-19 cases, the government is now allowing a rapid antigen test for travellers instead of a PCR molecular one. Rapid tests may be taken the day before arriving in the country, and PCR tests can be taken 72 hours before a scheduled flight or arrival at the border. In addition, the government has lifted the recommendation against all non-essential travel and is now only urging citizens to take precautions while flying.

For all the reasons mentioned above, many are expecting to see the airports look reminiscent of a pre-pandemic March Break. Amid the excitement of travelling again, many could forget about the importance of travel insurance. In this blog, we cover why you need travel insurance and your insurance options for COVID-19 related claims.

Do I need travel insurance?

Travel insurance allows you to relax on your trip by offering protection against certain financial risks and losses that can occur while travelling. If you are an Ontario resident planning to travel outside the province or out of the country, make sure to pack the right insurance policy before you go.

What does it cover?

1. It can financially help with medical emergencies overseas or the cost of other medical treatment that isn’t covered by the provincial health plan.
2. If you experience a last-minute trip cancellation or need to return from your trip early, insurance can help with the associated fees.
3. Comprehensive policies also include coverage for theft, loss, or damage of your luggage and personal effects in a range of circumstances.
4. It is available through Merit for individuals, couples, or families; policies can used for a single trip or annual/multi-trip policies.

Does that include COVID-19 claims?

Traditional travel insurance does not extend to claims caused by COVID-19. However, we offer specific coverage through our partner at Manulife. Although we cannot provide an on-line quote from our website, it is available directly with Manulife at 1-877-251-4532. Although a Manulife rep will be able to discuss all details related to the coverage, here is a brief overview:

• COVID-19 protection for worldwide travel
• Up to $1 million for COVID-19 related emergency medical expenses (up to $5 million if received full course of immunization for COVID-19)
• Up to $5 million for non-COVID-19 related emergency medical benefits
• Covers a wide range of expenses for health services, transportation and more
• Includes interruption coverage in the event you need to be quarantined during your trip

If you have received your full series of COVID-19 vaccines as well as any recommended doses in Canada at least 14 days prior to travel, you will be covered for COVID-19 related medical expenses. Otherwise, you will have to contact Manulife at 1-877-251-4532 to purchase coverage that includes coverage for COVID-19.

We are all excited to see some level of normalcy return when it comes to travel. However, even with the relaxed restrictions, travelling requires a lot of planning and coordination. Don’t be left underinsured and contact the professionals at Merit Insurance today to get you where you need to go.

Cannabis Legislation & Insurance

If you’re not already aware, Canada is planning for the legalization of marijuana on October 17, 2018. The Trudeau government’s stated goal is to legalize, strictly regulate and restrict access to cannabis, keep it out of the hands of Canadian youth, and prevent the expansion of organized crime and the black market.

And while much of the attention has been on where you will be able to buy it and from whom, there are other conversations to be had. One important question to consider is how will insurance providers view legal cannabis cultivation at home, or even driving under the influence of it. If you are a user or interested in growing the allowable four plants for personal use, does that small cannabis garden really come with a host of property risks? How does the use of cannabis influence your ability to drive? And will your use affect your health insurance or even travel insurance rates?

In a nutshell, the legalized substance will usher in major changes for the insurance industry – impacting everything from auto to health and travel.  We recommend consulting with your Merit Insurance Broker to be sure of where you stand and to review your coverage.

Cannabis & Home Insurance

Under the proposed framework, cannabis consumption will only be allowed at a person’s residence and is likely to carry the same insurance risk that tobacco smoking does. Rental apartments and condo corporations are still trying to figure out how to regulate cannabis consumption in their buildings.

But, there may be a risk should you supply your house guests with legal, home-grown cannabis from your garden just like you would provide them with alcoholic drinks or snacks at a barbeque. You may even provide marijuana edibles that you’ve whipped up yourself. Should a guest become ill or suffer an incident, the liability would be on you as a host, in the same way, that injuries due to alcohol distribution falls back onto the homeowner or business.

Auto Insurance

Will you be able to drive after having used marijuana? Yes and no. Drugged drivers may have slower reaction times and can swerve or tailgate more often which makes them a much higher risk for accidents. However, G-licensed drivers with a minimal amount of THC in their system will be permitted. In the United States, the most commonly accepted number is 5 nanograms. It is unclear if that will be the amount permitted in Canada.

In Ontario, if you are a young (under 21) or inexperienced driver, you are NOT allowed to drive with marijuana in your system. Also, there are rules proposed for anyone driving for a business that prohibits marijuana in your system. As a general rule, always err on the side of caution. If you’re not sure, don’t drive! Consider alcohol use. You don’t truly know what your blood-alcohol content might be, but if you’ve been drinking – you don’t drive. That is the same advice you should follow for marijuana usage.

Recreational Marijuana & Health Insurance

Much of the discussion around health insurance has centered on whether or not employee benefits should include medical marijuana. What is apparent in the legislative framework for recreational marijuana is that the federal government really wants to continue with the medical cannabis route as a distinct route vs recreational marijuana at least for the next 5 years, after which the government will decide if it’s necessary to continue the distinction.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is different than the other kinds of insurance, in that it’s usually purchased exclusively for emergencies, including trip cancellation and medical attention. Because of that, medical marijuana doesn’t fit neatly into the medical emergency structure at all. But legal cannabis users should be aware of the jurisdiction of their destination – because the substance may not be legal there.

Not sure how the Ontario Cannabis Legalization will affect you or your business? Contact your Merit Insurance Broker today for a personalized discussion and action plan.

That’s the Merit Difference.

Start Saving with Merit Today!

Merit Insurance has you covered with a variety of affordable options to meet your specific needs. Call your Merit broker for a quote today at 1-800-563-3383 or contact us online.  We’ll customize an insurance policy with affordable rates and deductible options that meet your needs.