Travel Tips

Travel Checklists

Tips before you go

Proper preparation is the key to a terrific trip. Here are some tips to consider for your trip.

  • Check your passport’s expiry date and find out about any visa or entry requirements specific to your destination.
  • Order local currency in advance, it can take some time to arrive.
  • Visit a travel clinic prior to your trip to verify that your vaccination record is up-to-date.
  • Make sure your prescriptions have been refilled and that you have enough for the duration of your trip. Pack it in your carry-on luggage to keep it easily accessible at all times.
  • Download maps to your mobile phone in advance so you don’t have to depend on finding reception or WiFi.
  • Make sure you review your travel insurance coverage and carefully review your policy, including the features and benefits, limitations and exclusions.

Tips to remember while travelling

Put your preparation and research into practice so you can truly appreciate your time abroad.

  • Learn a few basic phrases in the local language. A little goes a long way. Like, “Where is the…?”
  • Take a business card from the front desk of your hotel when you arrive. It can be helpful to have on hand the name and address of your lodgings in the local language!
  • Be Patient. Plan ahead for unexpected delays and try not to get upset when things inevitably go wrong.
  • Be mindful of the local culture of the country that you’re travelling in. Depending on your destination, cultural tolerances will vary.
  • Disable international data roaming to avoid a hefty phone bill upon your return.
  • Do not pet any stray animals you encounter, though they may look adorable.
  • Contact your Travel Insurance provider immediately if an emergency occurs. TD Insurance Travel Insurance customers can call 1-833-962-1140 from Canada or the U.S., or +1-(519) 988-7629 collect from anywhere else.

Tips for long-term travellers

If you’re planning to travel for an extended period, there are a few more things to think about and prepare for.

  • Be wary of provincial legislation that may limit how long you can travel out of province while still maintaining provincial health insurance.
  • Attend to your household needs. Put a hold on any newspaper subscriptions or mail deliveries, and prepay your bills.
  • Automatic timers can be used to switch lights on and off, giving the impression that you are at home.
  • Try not to post your whereabouts on Social Media if you're taking an extended vacation.
  • If you plan on taking a cell phone with you, make sure that your mobile connection and data will work abroad.
  • Don't forget your Travel Insurance! International hospital stays can be expensive, even for minor ailments.
  • Make sure you get a checkup done before you depart - if your health changes in any way prior to your departure, be sure to let your insurance provider know.
  • Most travel insurance policies have a pre-existing condition period exclusion. Make sure that you read and understand this exclusion as it could vary from policy to policy.

Travelling frequently to the U.S.?

Here are some tips for those that frequently head south of the border:

  • Do the currency calculations before you go - whether it’s on flights out of US airports, car rentals when you land, or lodging.
  • Consider a Canadian-based U.S. dollar bank account so you can buy US dollars when currency levels are favourable, and keep them in your account for easy access when they’re not.
  • Instead of booking a traditional hotel, look for something that offers a kitchen and prepare meals whenever possible to save money on dining out costs.
  • Try public transportation or bike share systems if available to save on transportation costs.
  • Look for a lower fee solution instead of a traditional wire transfer when transferring money to the US. TD offers Visa Direct, an easy way to move money online directly from your bank account.

Travel Resources

Emergency consular services
  • You can get information about how Global Affairs Canada provides emergency consular assistance when travelling within or outside Canada here
Government travel advisoriesRegistration of Canadians Abroad

Registration of Canadians Abroad is a free service that allows the Government of Canada to notify you in case of an emergency abroad or a personal emergency at home. The service also enables you to receive important information before or during a natural disaster or civil unrest.

The Government of Canada encourages you to register whether you are planning a vacation or living abroad.

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