Holiday Travel Tips

Carry a valid Canadian passport for you and your children. While some countries will accept other documents for identification purposes, a valid Canadian passport is the most acceptable document for proving your identity and your right to re-enter Canada. If you are travelling to or through the United States to a third country, you should always carry a valid Canadian passport. As of January 23, 2007, the United States' Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) will require all travellers to present a passport or other appropriate secure document when entering or re-entering the United States by air or sea.

Travellers should also ensure that they:

• Have all appropriate documents when travelling with a child (i.e. consent letter) as well as being aware of any special regulations and conditions that may affect the trip.

• Purchase travel and medical insurance for all trips outside Canada and have sufficient funds available to deal with any emergency that may occur.

• Are able to answer detailed questions concerning their luggage. Do not wrap gifts. Security officials are very strict concerning personal items that could be considered weapons (e.g. nail files, medical syringes, etc.). Electronic devices and toy guns may be scrutinized. Follow the orders of police and security officials at all times and avoid casual comments about security measures that could be misinterpreted.

• Are registered and maintain contact with the responsible Canadian government office if planning to be in a country for three months or more or in a country with a potential for problems. Carry details on how to contact the Department's Operations Centre, which operates 24 hours a day and accepts collect calls from Canadians overseas.

• Monitor local developments and news broadcasts carefully. There could be added delays at airports and other transportation facilities. Please plan accordingly.

• Leave detailed information about travel plans with a family member or friend in Canada.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, discuss the matter with your travel agent, travel insurer and/or airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.