Travel insurance: A guide for marathon runners

If you’re gearing up for a marathon, whether locally or internationally, the excitement is palpable. From training regimens to travel plans, there’s much to consider. One critical aspect often overlooked is travel insurance tailored for marathon runners. This guide will help you understand everything about marathon travel insurance, including its costs, coverage, and importance.

What is travel insurance for marathon runners?

Travel insurance is a safeguard against various risks associated with travel. You can purchase coverages separately or together, but a comprehensive plan typically covers unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and delays. For marathon runners, specialized travel insurance policies can cover specific needs related to running events, such as race entry fees and sports-related injuries.

What does travel insurance cover?

Again, coverages can be purchased separately, but a standard, all-inclusive travel insurance policy generally includes:

• Trip cancellation and interruption: Reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or shorten your trip due to a covered reason.
• Medical emergencies: Coverage for medical expenses incurred due to illness or injury while travelling.
• Emergency evacuation: Costs associated with emergency medical evacuation or repatriation.
• Baggage loss/delay: Compensation for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage.
• Travel delays: Coverage for additional expenses as a result of travel delays due to a covered reason.

For marathon runners, additional coverage options might include:

• Sports equipment: Protection from loss or damage to running gear.
• Race fee reimbursement: Refunds for non-refundable race entry fees if you’re unable to participate due to covered reasons.
• Sports-related injuries: Coverage for injuries sustained while training for or participating in a marathon.

Ensure the policy explicitly covers marathon running and other related activities. Some policies may exclude high-risk activities, so it’s important to confirm that your marathon is covered.

How much is marathon travel insurance?

The cost of travel insurance can vary significantly based on factors like age, destination, trip duration, and coverage level. On average, travel insurance costs between 4% to 10% of your total trip expenses. For example, if your trip costs $3,000, you might pay between $120 to $300 for insurance. Marathon travel insurance might be slightly more expensive due to the added risk factors associated with running events.

How much is travel insurance for marathons in Canada?

If you’re travelling to Canada, travel insurance costs reflect similar variables. Typically, a week-long policy can range from $50 to $200 (CAD). For marathon runners, the cost could be higher, especially if you opt for coverage that includes sports-related injuries and marathon-specific incidents. Given the extensive medical coverage often required for athletes, investing in a comprehensive policy is advisable.

How do I get travel insurance for marathons?

Securing travel insurance is straightforward:

1. Assess your needs: Consider your travel plans and specific needs, particularly those related to marathon running.
2. Compare policies: Use online comparison tools to evaluate different travel insurance policies and their costs.
3. Understand the details: Read the terms, conditions, exclusions, and coverage limits of each policy carefully.
4. Purchase the policy: Once you’ve found the right policy, you can purchase it online, through a travel agent, or directly from an insurance provider.

TIP: Check to see if you have existing coverage, such as through a group benefits plan or travel credit card – and then purchase more coverage if needed. If you're a frequent traveller, having the right credit card that provides the insurance you need can help save you a lot more money in the long run. 

Also read: The best credit cards for travel insurance in Canada

Why marathon travel insurance is important

1. Marathons can lead to physical injuries

Marathons are physically demanding, and injuries can happen. From sprained ankles to more serious conditions like dehydration or heart issues, having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is vital. This ensures that you receive prompt and appropriate medical care without worrying about exorbitant costs, especially if you're running in a foreign country where healthcare expenses can be high.

2. You may need to cancel or leave early

Life is unpredictable. Illness, injury, or unforeseen events might force you to cancel your trip or return home early. Marathon travel insurance can cover non-refundable expenses such as race entry fees, flights, and accommodation, providing peace of mind if your plans suddenly change due to a covered reason.

3. You could face unexpected delays

Travelling to a marathon often involves multiple flights and connections. Delays and cancellations are not uncommon and can lead to missed connections, potentially causing you to miss your race. Travel insurance can compensate for additional costs incurred due to delays for a covered reason, such as overnight stays or rebooking fees. But be sure to check that your plan covers delays to your destination as some plans may only provide coverage for delays on the way home.

4. Your running gear could become lost or delayed

Imagine arriving at your marathon destination, but your luggage, including your running gear, doesn’t. Marathon travel insurance can provide coverage for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage, ensuring you can quickly replace essential items and stay on track for your race.

The bottom line

Running a marathon is an exhilarating and rewarding experience, but it comes with its own set of risks. Marathon travel insurance provides essential coverage, ensuring you are protected against unexpected events that could disrupt your plans. By understanding the costs, coverage options, and how to obtain the right policy, you can focus on what matters most – crossing the finish line. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or preparing for your first race, investing in travel insurance is a wise decision that offers peace of mind and financial security.

Also read:

• Do you need travel insurance within Canada? 
• How to get cheap travel insurance in Canada 
• Travel insurance for Canadian students studying abroad