Things to Know Before Traveling to Canada

Did you know that Canada is the second largest country in the world by land area? This is a fact worth keeping in mind if you plan to travel there. That’s a lot of ground to cover and things to know about destinations on your bucket list before you visit that place.

Whether it’s your first time or a seasoned visitor, understanding Canadian customs, weather patterns, and must-see destinations can make your travel smoother and more fun.

From coastlines dotted with lighthouses to towering mountains and bustling cities, Canada offers a city adventure for every traveler visiting this part of the world. Let’s dive into this top travel guide with essential tips, such as the best things to do in Canada.

Canada’s size is truly massive. It stretches across much of North America. This country has a lot of different cities and places to visit in the travel world. You can find tall mountains, huge forests, and many lakes here. These sights are spread out over a big area.

There are three oceans around Canada. To the east is the Atlantic Ocean. The west side touches the Pacific Ocean. Up north, you’ll find the Arctic Ocean.

The weather in Canada changes a lot depending on where you are, from city to city and day to day. In southern parts, it’s usually not too hot or too cold. But as you travel further north in the city, it gets really chilly!

Most places have cold winters and warm summers, so the best time to visit Canada is during the summer months. Like in the city of Vancouver or Halifax, it might not get as cold there even during winter, making it a pleasant travel destination to visit!

Lots of different people from all around the world live together in Canada! This mix makes Canada very special because everyone around the world brings their traditions and stories when they visit.

Indigenous peoples were the first to live on this land long ago and still share their rich culture with the world today.

Big cities like Toronto or Montreal often have world festivals where people celebrate being from different countries, and visitors travel to the city to enjoy the event all together!

In most of Canada, people speak English, but there’s also French! Especially if you travel to Quebec – that’s where many folks speak French more than English.

When dealing with Canadian government stuff—like travel or a visit to an office or airport—you can use either English or French since both languages are official here.

When you plan a trip to Canada, knowing the visa and travel requirements is key for your visit. Most travelers need an eTA or visa to enter. An eTA is an Electronic Travel Authorization. It’s easier to get than a travel visa and can be done online.

If you’re from the United States, things are simpler. You just need a valid passport to travel across Canada. But for others, it’s important to check what travel requirements your country needs before you go.

Remember that rules can change. Always look for additional information close to your travel date.

After understanding the legal and travel requirements for entering Canada, it’s essential to consider your health and safety. This includes knowing about vaccinations, insurance, and emergency services.

Before you pack your bags for travel to Canada, check if you need any vaccines. Luckily, there are no mandatory vaccinations for travel to enter the country. But it’s wise to be up-to-date with routine vaccines like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine (DTaP), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and your yearly flu shot, especially before travel.

However, travelers from some countries may have to show they don’t have yellow fever by providing proof of vaccination. Also, remember that COVID-19 travel entry requirements can change quickly. Always check for the latest updates before traveling.

Traveling without insurance? Think again! In Canada, healthcare for tourists can be very expensive. So, getting travel insurance is a smart move. It usually covers more than just medical bills:

• Trip cancellations
• Lost luggage

Some travel insurance policies even help if you need an emergency evacuation back home due to illness or injury.

In case of an emergency in Canada—like needing the police or an ambulance—you dial 911. It’s easy to remember and works everywhere in the country for travel. If something serious happens while you’re away from home:

1. Call 911 first.

2. Contact your consulate; they can help, too.

Also, know where hospitals are near where you’ll stay during your travel, just in case.

The money used in Canada is called the Canadian dollar (CAD). When you see prices, they might not include sales tax. This means travel can cost more than the listed price. When you travel, you can change your money to Canadian dollars at airports, banks, or hotels. The exchange rate changes often, so the amount of Canadian dollars you get for your travel money can vary.

When changing money, it helps to compare rates at different places. Airports may have higher fees but are convenient if you need local currency immediately. Banks usually offer better exchange rates and lower fees than hotels.

In Canada, most places take credit cards like Visa or MasterCard. But some small shops or places in the countryside only take cash. It’s a good idea to have both on hand.

There are ATMs all over Canada where you can get cash out with a card from home. However, these machines might charge extra fees when you use them. Before leaving for Canada, tell your bank about your travel plans so they don’t think there’s suspicious activity on your account and block your card.

• Credit cards: Great for most purchases.
• Cash: Important for smaller vendors or remote areas.
• ATMs: Convenient, but watch out for fees.

In Canada, things come with a sales tax that gets added when you pay—not shown on the price tag—and this tax differs in each province! However, keep those receipts if you buy gifts or souvenirs that will leave the country with you! Some items may qualify under special schemes allowing exemption from taxes when exported outside of Canada.

Remember:

• Sales tax varies by province.
• No refunds are available on general purchases.
• Keep receipts for possible exemptions on exports.

Canada’s main mobile network providers are Rogers, Bell, and Telus. They offer good service in cities and towns. If you’re visiting, you can buy a prepaid SIM card for your phone. But remember, your phone must be unlocked to use it.

In remote places or up north, getting a signal can be hard. Before going to these areas, check the coverage maps of the carriers. This will help you stay connected

Most hotels, cafes, and public spaces in Canada have Wi-Fi for customers. It’s usually free! However, if you travel outside big cities or towns, finding the internet might be difficult.

Consider getting a portable Wi-Fi device or data plan for non-stop internet access across Canada. This way, you won’t miss any important emails while on the go!

Sending letters or packages is easy with Canada Post, which works nationwide. You can find post offices in most places where people live; even small towns often have one.

You can also buy stamps at other shops like convenience stores if that’s closer to where you’re staying. When sending things back home or elsewhere outside Canada, though, it might cost more than expected due to international rates.

By keeping these communication tips in mind when traveling to Canada:

• Make sure your phone is unlocked before buying a local SIM card.
• Check mobile network coverage if heading into less populated areas.
• Use available Wi-Fi hotspots but consider alternative solutions for rural regions.
• Locate nearby post offices and understand international shipping costs beforehand.

Cities in Canada have public transit systems. These include buses, subways, trams, and ferries. Getting a transit pass could save you money if you plan on traveling around a lot within cities like Toronto or Vancouver.

Each city has its own schedule and routes for public transportation. You can find these online or through special apps. It’s easy to check times and places where you can catch a ride.

You need your driver’s license from home to rent a car in Canada. Sometimes, an international permit is helpful, but isn’t always needed. Most of the time, you can rent a car if you’re 21 years old or older. But if you’re under 25, renting might cost more because of extra fees.

Before driving off with your rental car, look at it closely for any scratches or dents. This way, there won’t be arguments about damages later on when returning the vehicle.

Canada is big! Flying inside the country helps connect major cities fast. There are also smaller airlines that go to places without roads.

It’s smart to book your flights early so that they cost less.

After figuring out how to get around from the previous section on transportation tips, it’s time to consider where you’ll stay. In Canada, you have a range of places to rest your head at night. There’s something for everyone, from fancy hotels in city centers to cozy hostels tucked away in quiet streets.

Hotels can give you comfort with nice beds and room service. But they can be pricey during summer or winter holidays when many people visit Canada. It’s smart to book these early so you don’t miss out.

Hostels are great if you want to save money. They often have shared rooms, which makes them cheaper than hotels. If you’re traveling alone, hostels can also be a fun way to meet other travelers like you.

Another cool option is staying in a place that feels like home. You might rent an apartment in the city or a cottage by a lake through websites like Airbnb. These rentals let you live more like locals do instead of feeling like just another guest at a hotel.

Before booking, check if renting is allowed where you’re going. Some cities have rules about this kind of stay. Having a rental will ensure you’re prepared for the best places to visit in Canada.

If adventure calls your name, think about camping under the stars! Canada has breathtaking national parks and private campgrounds perfect for setting up tents. Remember that summer months get busy, so reserve your spot ahead of time!

Always follow the park’s rules when camping – no one wants an unexpected bear visit! Ensure fires are okay before lighting any marshmallow roasts; sometimes, there are fire bans.

• Luxury hotels: comfy but costly during peak seasons; advance booking helps.
• Budget-friendly hostels: less expensive shared rooms; ideal for making new friends.
• Vacation rentals: apartments or homes offering local experiences; legalities vary by city.
• Camping sites: These are found within natural parks; reservations are necessary during popular times.

When you visit Canada, it’s important to understand local customs. This will help you blend in and show respect. Let’s look at some key things to remember.

In Canada, tipping is a common way to say “thank you” for good service. At restaurants, people usually tip between 15% and 20% of the bill before tax. You don’t have to do math in your head; many restaurant bills suggest tip amounts.

• Tip 15%-20% at sit-down restaurants
• A smaller tip is okay for haircuts or taxi rides
• For hotel housekeepers, leave a few dollars per day

Remember, tipping isn’t needed at fast-food places unless someone goes above and beyond.

It’s polite to shake hands when meeting someone new in Canada. Say “hello” or “hi” with a smile! In business meetings, firm handshakes are the norm for men and women.

• Handshakes should be friendly but not too strong.
• Use casual greetings like “hello” with most people.
• Save hugs for close friends or family members only.

Always be mindful of personal space during greetings. Canadians value this highly!

Canada has laws that might differ from what you’re used to. Drinking ages vary by province—either 18 or 19 years old—and they take these rules seriously.

Here are some legal points:

1. Follow drinking age laws—they change by province.

2. Cannabis is legal, but each place has its own rules.

3. Don’t jaywalk—it could lead to fines in cities!

Canada is home to over 40 national parks, each showcasing the country’s stunning natural beauty. To visit these parks, you need to pay entry fees. However, there is a smart way to save money if you visit multiple parks. Consider buying a Parks Canada Discovery Pass. It gives you unlimited admission for a year.

In these parks, meeting wildlife is common. But remember, wild animals can be unpredictable. Always follow park guidelines to keep safe.

Canadian cities are full of exciting spots! Take Toronto’s famous CN Tower or Vancouver’s lush Stanley Park as examples. And let’s not forget the charming streets of Old Quebec City.

Cities also have museums and galleries that show off Canadian art and history. Theaters add to the lively culture in urban areas.

For those who love shopping and tasting local foods, markets, and shopping districts are must-visits!

Canada knows how to celebrate its culture with festivals! The Montreal Jazz Festival fills the city with music every summer, while the Calgary Stampede showcases cowboy skills.

The Toronto International Film Festival brings movie stars worldwide every fall.

And don’t miss out on seasonal events like Canada Day! Cities light up with fireworks and parades that tourists love.

After a long day of sightseeing, you might get hungry. Canada offers unique dishes to fill your belly. One famous dish is poutine. It’s made with fries, cheese curds, and gravy. You must try it! Also, Canada makes lots of maple syrup products. They’re sweet and tasty.

If you like seafood, there’s plenty along the coasts. On the West Coast, salmon is a favorite choice for many people. On the East Coast, lobster is very popular too. Now, more than ever, indigenous cuisine is also getting attention in Canada. There are chances to taste traditional dishes that have been around for centuries.

• Must-try Canadian foods:
• Poutine
• Maple syrup treats
• Salmon on the West Coast
• Lobster on the East Coast
• Indigenous cuisine

Eating these foods helps you experience what everyday life can be like in Canada.

In cities across Canada today, finding food that fits your diet is easy. Vegetarian? Vegan? No problem! Many restaurants offer plant-based meals now. And if you need gluten-free or other special kinds of food for allergies or health reasons, you can find them at supermarkets and most places where people eat out.

Always tell servers about any allergies or things you don’t eat when ordering. This way, they can help ensure your meal is safe to enjoy!

• Tips for dietary-restricted dining:
• Look for vegetarian and vegan options at city restaurants.
• Check supermarkets for gluten-free goods.
• Communicate dietary restrictions clearly when ordering food.

Drinking alcohol has rules in Canada, too. In Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec provinces, the legal age to drink alcohol is just eighteen years old! But everywhere else in this big country? You have to wait until nineteen years old to drink alcohol legally.

No matter how old someone looks, they will still need ID proof when buying drinks with alcohol in them. And remember: giving alcohol to anyone younger than the legal drinking age could lead to serious trouble with laws here! Also, driving after drinking (DUI) offenses are taken very seriously indeed!

If you’re planning a trip and intend to drive across Canada, looking for a reliable driving guide is a smart move. Such guides not only cover the rules about drinking and driving but also include important information about speed limits, road signs, and how to handle different driving conditions you might encounter in Canada’s vast landscapes.

So always follow these rules while enjoying your time exploring everything this beautiful land has on offer:

• Legal drinking ages by province:
• Alberta –18 years old
• Manitoba –18 years old
• Quebec –18 years old

Embarking on a Canadian adventure means diving into diverse landscapes and cultures. You’re now armed with the essentials—from legal must-dos to cultural dos and don’ts. Keep your health, safety, and belly in check, and you’ll be set to explore the Great White North.

Opt for distinctive local transportation modes such as iconic trains or the national park shuttle services for an authentic Canadian experience. For convenience and flexibility, taxis or rental cars are readily available. Ensure you carry your international driver’s license in Canada and familiarize yourself with Canadian driving laws.

This guide has illuminated numerous aspects of Canada, from essential travel tips to exploring the vibrant local cuisine. So, prepare your bags, secure your passport, and prepare for an extraordinary adventure in this culturally diverse nation.