Thinking of traveling to Canada for holiday or an extended work-trip? It is not like simply going to another country. Canada is a completely different experience from the UK, First of all, the country is massive! There are a lot of large cities and regions of the country, but a lot of Canada is vast wilderness. Knowing what to pack is the only way you can ensure you have a great trip. Here are some essentials.
1. Suitable Clothing
Depending on the season and area of Canada you intend on visiting, you need the right clothing. Canada is a very relaxed country when it comes to dress, but there are instances where a nice pair of Chinos or a dress shirt will be appropriate. Evening meals or while visiting friends at a nicer restaurant will require more than just a t-shirt and jeans.
For those looking to hike the vast wilderness of Canada, dress in layers and pack plenty of active pants for the journey. Remember Canada can be very cold, so a heavy coat, gloves, scarf, and hat are a great idea depending on what season it is while visiting. Pack hiking boots or shoes. A raincoat and extra socks are a great idea as well. Remember the old Army Mantra to keep your feet dry!
The cold can be devastating if you are hiking or camping in Canada and as stated before, bring plenty of layers. You will also want to invest in thermal underwear. These tight-fitting clothing items can be vital to your overall comfort. They keep your core dry and warm to help manage heat loss more appropriately, so do not forget to pack thermals!
Canada is located in the extreme north and the farther north you go, the colder it can get. However, during the summer, depending on where you visit, humidity can be a factor. Humidity in Canada is a particular problem in the coastal regions such as the Atlantic Provinces and British Columbia. High humidity means the air can feel thick and heavy during the summer, so when visiting during this time, dress appropriately and be careful if you are a traveller with asthma or other breathing conditions.
2. Documentation
Canada has many types of visa programs to choose from and depending on which one you are traveling with, you will need to bring valid proof of fees paid, the appropriate application form, if applying in Canada, and your medical clearance and criminal record certificate.
Of course, you need your passport. That is a given and the only way you are getting into Canada. Your general ID card will not work here. If you are traveling on a citizenship visa, you will also need to bring your eTA. It is also a good idea to purchase foreign health insurance for your journey. Accidents happen and you want to be able to get medical attention if an unfortunate accident occurs.
If you intend on driving while in Canada, your driver’s license and an international license is required. Simply request an international driver’s license before leaving the UK. This will ensure you can rent a vehicle and not have any trouble driving where you need to go.
3. Money
Yes, Canada has exchange banks available, but these can be impractical and confusing to some travelers. The best solution for traveling to Canada is to trust your bank card or credit card for payments. Your debit card can be used at ATMs throughout the country to get cash if necessary. You will also want to note that tipping is a thing in Canada and tipping your waitress 15 to 20% is expected. Tipping may also be expected in hotels, taxis, and various other service-related interactions.
4. Uncommon Toiletries
Generally, when it comes to essentials such as toiletries, simply bring what you use everyday, but you will want to pack one extra little item. Face cream is something many people travel with, but if you are not accustomed to packing it, you can easily forget.
Face cream needs in Canada are different than other parts of the world. Generally, the moisturizing effects of face cream are what people desire, but in Canada, you will want to pack a face cream with an SPF. Light-reflecting off the snow in winter and direct UV rays during the summer can cause burning and irritation, so make sure your face cream has an SPF and apply it every day.
5. Charging Devices
Smartphones and mobile devices are certainly essential in our modern society but are not all the same in each country. When traveling to Canada pack at least 2 chargers in case one fails and it does not hurt to have a car adapter if you intend on driving in the country. Also, know what outlets are available in Canada and bring adapters if necessary.
6. Sunglasses
No, you are not going to bring these just to look cool. Like with the face cream mentioned earlier, sunglasses have an essential use in Canada. Yes, they can protect your eyes from the beaming sun, but sunglasses can also help you prevent snow blindness. This is a real condition in which light reflecting off snow causes temporary blindness.
7. Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Security is important, but unfortunately, when traveling and using Wi-Fi hot spots, your security can be at risk. A Virtual Private Network or VPN helps prevent others from taking your vital information. Although privacy networks are improving, it is always best to have your own personal security. A VPN can also help you access websites that may not be available in Canada that you regularly use in the UK.
8. A Windproof Umbrella
The wind and rain can be a lot to contend with in Canada and an average umbrella might not be enough. Umbrellas can quickly break in high winds and finding a proper replacement can be difficult. Before embarking on your Canadian adventure, make sure you have a windproof umbrella to keep you dry and safe from the negative effects of the wind.
Canada is a great place to work, live, and visit, so while traveling, remember your essentials. Keep yourself warm, dry, and comfortable if you are going to be in the great outdoors a lot and bring plenty of comfort items if you intend on spending a lot of time inside. Enjoy Canada and have the best time on your travel journey.
When traveling to Canada, take time to enjoy the sites. Canada is a vast and beautiful country full of some amazing people. Many visitors start out their journey as tourists and end up moving to this great land, so if this happens to you, contact Visa Bureau to help make your move less stressful.