Before you leave

Travel essentials for Canadians

Cover the practical details that can affect whether a trip runs smoothly before you book, pay or depart.

Quick answer

Check the items that are hardest to fix after departure

Start with entry requirements and insurance, then confirm connectivity, money access and airport transport. Keep official documents and a backup payment method accessible during the trip.

Priority checks before departure

These are the details most likely to create costly or difficult problems if they are left until the last minute.

Entry documents

Check passport validity, visa or electronic authorization requirements, transit rules and any destination-specific arrival documents.

Medical protection

Review emergency medical limits, exclusions, pre-existing-condition wording and the process for contacting the insurer while abroad.

Money access

Plan for cards, local currency, foreign transaction fees and at least one backup way to access funds.

Arrival connection

Know how you will get online and how you will reach your accommodation before you land, especially after late arrivals.

Essential planning guides

Travel insurance

Compare emergency medical coverage, cancellation and interruption protection, baggage terms and exclusions.

Insurance guides

Visa & entry

Start with destination-specific planning notes, then verify current requirements with the destination government and Government of Canada.

Entry guides

eSIM & mobile data

Check device compatibility, network coverage, data allowance, validity period and activation instructions.

eSIM guides

Currency

Review local currency, card acceptance, exchange-rate considerations, ATM access and a practical backup-payment plan.

Currency guides

Airport transfers

Compare the route from the airport to your accommodation, including timing, luggage, public transport and private-transfer options.

Transfer guides

Destination guides

Bring the essentials together with country-specific planning information, local transport notes and trip ideas.

Browse destinations

A practical final check

Mark the travel preparations you have verified. The list saves only your checked items in this browser.

0 of 6 items checked

Passport and required entry authorization are valid for the whole itinerary, including transit stops.
Insurance documents and emergency contact information are saved offline.
At least two payment methods are available and travel notices or card controls are handled where required.
Your phone is unlocked if needed, and you know how mobile service will work on arrival.
The first airport-to-accommodation route is planned, including a late-arrival backup.
Copies of key confirmations are available without relying on mobile data.

Entry rules, insurance coverage and provider terms can change. Verify time-sensitive details with the relevant government, insurer or booking provider before departure.

Connect the essentials to the rest of the trip

Once the practical requirements are covered, compare the travel and accommodation choices that shape the itinerary and total cost.

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