Preparing for a trip to Canada? While most travelers know to expect extremely cold temperatures, there are a few lesser-known details about this great country that may catch you off guard upon your arrival to Canada. Read on to learn five things every traveler should know before making the trip to Canada.
1. Prepare for Long Distances
First-time travelers to Canada often underestimate the vastness that is Canada. Covering almost 4 million square miles coast to coast, Canada is certainly one of the largest countries in the world. If you’re gearing up for a visit to Canada, it’s crucial that you have an itinerary that takes this distance into account. If you’re traveling with a tight schedule, plan ahead by choosing what sections of Canada you want to see. Hotspots like Toronto, Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, and the Maritimes are all popular locations where you should consider spending the majority of your time on your upcoming trip.
2. Learn the Art of Layering
If you’ve never been to Canada before, you may be under the impression that traveling in the warmer months will help protect you from the cold. However, this isn’t always the case. Temperatures frequently dip at night at all times of the year, making the spring and summer quite cold. Experts like Robert Butchike recommend that visitors pack several layers when traveling to Canada. This way, you’ll be armed with enough cold-weather accessories to keep you warm as the temperatures drop.
3. Get an ETA Visa Ahead of Time
An Electronic Travel Authorization or an ETA is a requirement for visitors that are hoping to enter Canada. It’s mandatory for all non-American visa-free nationals to get an ETA before boarding a flight to Canada. While the application process is simple and can be completed online, this process must be completed ahead of time. Once you’re approved, the ETA will be valid for the next five years.
4. Invest in Travel Insurance
Travelers insurance is a must when traveling to other countries, especially Canada. Robert Butchike shares that non-Canadian citizens should consider investing in travel insurance ahead of their trip to prepare for any potential emergency situations. Accidents happen and can be quite costly if you haven’t signed up for travel insurance prior to your trip. Save yourself the potential headache by choosing a health insurance policy that will cover all of the activities you’re planning to experience while in Canada.
5. Prepare to Spend Time in the Great Outdoors
Though Canada has some of the most exciting cities on earth, don’t discount the beautiful Canadian countryside on your visit. The vast areas of unspoiled and pristine wilderness make for captivating moments in nature. Whether you hike through the Rocky Mountains or your canoe in Ontario’s lakes, a visit to Canada wouldn’t be complete without some serious playtime outside.
If you can’t get enough of the outdoors, consider going camping on your vacation to Canada. There are several parks throughout Canada that allow travelers to bring their own gear or stay in a cabin during their time at the park.
Make sure your upcoming trip to Canada is everything you hope it to be. Keep this information in mind as you prepare for the adventure of a lifetime
