What You Need to Know About Planning a Trip That Follows Canadian Travel Protocols
From researching entry protocols and travel insurance to making sure you can access PCR testing before your return, here’s what you should do before, during and after your next international trip
By
Jessica Napier
Posted: August 19, 2021 12:02 PM ET
With eased quarantine measures for vaccinated travellers and the country’s borders starting to reopen, many Canadians are making future plans for a getaway. Whether you’re craving some beach time or want to explore a new city, here are some key things to keep in mind before, during and after your international trip.
Research local entry protocols, visa requirements, quarantine rules and health and safety measures for the countries you’re considering visiting.
Review the Government of Canada’s travel advice and advisories, which cover Covid-related travel concerns and alerts on other issues such as local crime rates, natural hazards and infectious diseases like zika and malaria.
Ensure PCR testing is readily available for travellers in your holiday destination. You’ll need to get a test from an accredited lab before your return to Canada.
Purchase the proper travel insurance policy to cover emergency medical and Covid-19 related illnesses, as well as any other expenses you might incur when travelling.
Tally up the costs of testing and insurance so you can factor these expenses into your overall trip budget.
Before you leave
Make sure your passport, travel insurance policy and all other travel documents are up to date. And check to make sure you’re aware of any local entry points.
If necessary, complete your pre-departure Covid-19 test and any travel forms that are required for the destination you’ll be visiting.
Ensure you have proof of both vaccination doses easily accessible to show travel authorities.
Pack plenty of personal protective equipment—including medical masks, travel-sized hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes.
During your trip
Enjoy your holiday while adhering to the local health and safety protocols, which might include a quarantine period, curfews or restrictions on gatherings.
Practice good hand hygiene, wear a mask in public areas and avoid large crowds wherever possible.
Allow extra time for everything, such as hotel check-in, airport transfers and dining out– and be patient with tourism workers.
Complete a PCR test within 72 hours of the scheduled departure time of your return flight to Canada.
Upon Your Return
Before you land, download the ArriveCAN mobile app and input your traveller information and proof of vaccination.
Provide your Covid-19 test result to border agents upon arrival.
You’ll need to take another PCR test before leaving the airport, though you don’t have to wait for your results before proceeding home.
Fully vaccinated travellers are exempt from Canada’s mandatory quarantine requirements but it’s recommended that you monitor your health status closely and maintain a list of your close contacts for 14 days following your return.
Get the right coverage
To protect your next trip, ensure you have the right travel insurance coverage to meet your needs. Visit education for more information.
