How to plan for and
enjoy your next trip

From packing your toothbrush to leaving your itinerary with a family member or friend, a lot of details can go into planning a trip. Add the following to your travel To-do list to help you prepare for your experience.

• Pack these items:
  - Passport and Visa (if necessary)
  - Travel insurance documents
  - Your medication in your carry-on, but leave any cannabis products at home
  
• Save scanned copies of your important documents, including your travel insurance details, in an email for easy access if you lose your originals. Share copies with close family or friends as well for additional back up.
• Take the time to read and understand your policy, and confirm you have the right coverage. If you have any questions about your coverage, contact your travel insurance provider for clarification before leaving.
• If you have any known medical conditions, including a change in health, you might not be covered in certain situations. In these instances, be sure to review any changes to your medical condition with your travel insurance provider before you depart.
• Check your travel dates, flights, hotel bookings, and policy coverage dates – make sure all the dates line up!
• Check travel advisories on the countries you will be visiting the Official Government of Canada travel information website.
• Confirm how to call Canada direct and collect from your destination country before you leave.
• Pack a re-usable bag to keep invoices, receipts, and proof of departure (boarding pass) in.
• Leave your itinerary and contact information with a trusted family member or friend.

Whether your dream trip involves exploring the Galapagos Islands or marveling at the beauty of Canada’s Northern Lights, it’s important to keep at least one foot in reality. Here are some ways to immerse yourself in the moment and stay safe while you do:

• Register as a Canadian travelling abroad.
  
• Keep your wits about you and be aware of your surroundings.
• If you wouldn’t engage in certain activities at home, consider avoiding them while you’re travelling.
• Leave your itinerary with your hotel.
• Store valuables such as expensive jewelry and large amounts of money you must have with you and extra credit cards in a hotel or bank safe.
  
• Only carry the money, credit cards and other valuables you’ll need for each day, outing or activity.
  
• Conceal valuables that you’ll carry with you while you’re out and about.
  
• If you must travel alone at night, stick to brightly lit, well populated areas.
  
• Know how to dial 911 in the country you’re visiting.
  
• Be sure to eat and drink according to your activity level and environment.
  
• Continue to take your medication as prescribed by your doctor.
  
• Keep your wallet card handy and use the information on it to contact us if you need emergency assistance while travelling.
  
• Apply sunscreen in sunny conditions – at any time of year.
• Remember to keep invoices, receipts, proof of departure (boarding pass) in a re-usable bag – you might need them in the event of a claim.