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Pre-Travel Reminders - Essentials Not to be Forgotten

Last updated: 15th June 2023

Going on vacation is always a fun and exciting experience, but it's important to remember to prepare for your trip in advance. By following a few simple tips, you can make sure that your vacation goes smoothly and without any problems.

Preparation is key when it comes to travel, so follow these tips and enjoy your vacation!

Before you leave, check your destination for any travel advice or advisories

Before you even leave for your vacation, it is very important to check the very latest travel advice and advisories for your destination. Safety and security conditions can change frequently and without warning, so it is always a good idea to check regularly in the run-up to your vacation. We all remember how important these advisories were during the COVID-19 pandemic. The best place to check this information is direct with The Government of Canada. Their website has all the latest information to make sure you can travel safely whilst outside of Canada.

Holding Canadian passport in airport terminal check-in

Check your passport and the entry requirements for your destination

You don't want to get to the airport and realize that your passport has already expired! Make sure your passport is valid and in acceptable condition before you travel. It is also worth remembering that different countries have different requirements - for example, some countries require you to have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the date you arrive in the country. 

Make copies of important documents like your passport and driver's license, just in case you lose them while you're away

If you're planning a trip abroad, it's important to make copies of all your important documents, like your passport and driver's license. That way, if you lose them while you're away, you'll have a backup. You can keep the copies in a safe place, like a hotel safe, or even just in your carry-on bag. And it's not just a good idea to make copies of your documents - it's also smart to leave a copy of your itinerary with a friend or family member back home. It's also a good idea to leave them a copy of your travel insurance documents. That way, if something happens to you while you're away, they'll know where to find you. So don't forget to do some advance planning before you head off on your next trip. It could end up being a lifesaver.

Pack light - you don't want to be lugging around heavy suitcases all-day

Vacation is supposed to be a time to relax and enjoy yourself, but lugging around heavy suitcases can quickly put a damper on your plans. Overpacking is a common mistake - we often bring more clothes than we need, thinking we'll be able to mix and match to create different looks. But in reality, we usually end up wearing the same few items all week. To avoid being weighed down by your luggage, pack light. Bring versatile pieces that can be worn in multiple ways, and limit yourself to just a few pairs of shoes. You'll thank yourself when you're not struggling to carry your suitcase upstairs or cramming it into the overhead bin. And who knows - you might even have room for a souvenir or two.

Research your destination online so you know what to expect when you get there

When you're planning a trip, it's important to do your research so you know what to expect when you arrive at your destination. To be respectful of your host country, you should also research the local culture and customs. There may be a different approach to dress codes and behaviors in public compared with what is acceptable at home - you don't want to get caught out breaking any local laws. 

The internet is a great resource for finding out information about your destination, and there are a few things you should look for when you're doing your research. Look up the climate so you know what kind of weather to expect. It's also a good idea to read reviews of hotels and other attractions in the area so you can get an idea of what to do and see while you're there. By taking the time to do your research, you can be sure that you have a fun and safe trip.

Two young backpackers travelling with light luggage and guitar

Bring a power adapter if you're going to a foreign country so that you can use your electronics

If you're planning a trip to a foreign country, don't forget to pack a power adapter! Most electronics these days run on electricity, and if you don't have the right adapter you won't be able to use them. Many laptops, digital cameras, and even cell phones require a power adapter in order to work. Even if you're only planning on being gone for a short time, it's always better to be safe than sorry. If you're not sure what kind of power adapter you need, your best bet is to check with the manufacturer of your electronics. They should be able to tell you what kind of adapter you need and where you can get one. With a little planning, you can make sure that your next trip is enjoyable and hassle-free.

Book your hotel and flights as far in advance as possible to get the best deals

When it comes to booking your hotel and flights, it pays to plan ahead. Not only will you get the best deals by booking early, but you'll also have a wider selection of hotels and flights to choose from. And if you're flexible with your travel dates, you'll have even more options to choose from. So if you're looking to save money on your next trip, be sure to book your hotel and flights well in advance. You'll be glad you did!

Make sure to have travel insurance in case of an emergency

Traveling is an exciting adventure, but it's important to be prepared for the unexpected. No one likes to think about what could go wrong on their vacation, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. That's where travel insurance comes in. Travel insurance can help cover the cost of medical emergencies, lost or stolen luggage, flight cancellations, and more. It's always a good idea to purchase travel insurance before your trip, in case you need to make a claim. But what if you're already on your trip and something happens? Many travel insurance policies have 24/7 assistance hotlines that you can call for help, no matter where you are in the world. So, if you find yourself in a sticky situation, don't despair - help is just a phone call away.

Follow these simple guidelines and you'll be on your way to a worry-free holiday. We hope you have a fantastic time!

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Your Government health plan does not provide coverage for medical expenses incurred outside of Canada (some provincial plans provide very limited reimbursement for out-of-province medical bills). Travel insurance provides coverage for unexpected medical emergencies and related expenses incurred outside of Canada (and your home province). Travel insurance needs to be purchased prior to departing your home province.

If you are planning on making several trips a year, then an annual multi-trip plan could save you time and money. It is worth comparing coverage and rates.

Healthcare in other countries can be very expensive, especially in the United States. A simple emergency room visit can cost someone a few thousand dollars without health insurance. More severe reasons for conditions could cost hundreds of thousands. 

Emergency medical coverage is the benefit of the policy related solely to those medical expenses, such as the doctor’s visit, hospital stay, prescriptions, ambulances – essentially any item related to your medical event. Items such as baggage loss or trip cancellation would not be covered under this benefit.

Tommy Lloyd
Author: Tommy Lloyd, Managing Director

Tommy has over 15 years experience within the insurance industry, having worked with some of the worlds largest insurers. Tommy’s primary focus has been developing the best possible online experience for travellers looking to compare travel insurance rates. Music and travel are two of Tommy's greatest interests, and even better when he can combine the two together!

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