Safety Travel Tips for Travelling in Canada

Canada is a beautiful country to visit and a relatively safe place to travel. Safety travel tips for travelling in Canada will differ in some ways from travelling elsewhere in the world. Part of the reason for this is the fact that Canada is a huge country and it largely depends upon how and where you are travelling. Another important factor has to do with the time of year and weather related concerns.

Consider the following tips on how to travel safely in Canada.

Identification:

Regardless of how or where you are travelling in Canada, it is important to carry proper identification at all times. This includes an updated passport, if you are from somewhere outside of Canada or if you plan to cross the border into the United States, at any time in your travels. You will need to obtain your passport prior to travelling, as a birth certificate or driver’s license is no longer adequate identification for border crossings. Keep your identification somewhere safe, but also make certain that it is easily accessible.

Canadian Currency:

Become familiar with Canadian currency before you travel, as it is different that that of the U.S. and other countries. Find out about exchange rates, as they may vary from day to day and may not be on par. Bank debit cards and traveler’s checks are accepted at most gas stations, hotels and motels. Remote locations are not likely to accept personal checks and may insist upon cash instead. They may question the use of unfamiliar credit cards. Major credit cards are more likely to be accepted. Keep your wallet, currency, traveler’s checks, debit cards and credit cards in a safe place, when you are travelling. You should report any debit or credit cards that are lost or stolen, immediately.

Gasoline:

For anyone driving across Canada, it is advisable to be alert to fluctuating gasoline prices. Because there are long distances involved, it is wise to keep a full gas tank, whenever possible. Many cities and towns in remote areas are now being by-passed. That means that they are no longer on major routes and visiting them may include extra time, distance and mileage. Travelers need to make certain that they carry road maps, just in case. Note that some gasoline outlets will only allow the use of their gas cards at their stations.

Weather:

Canada has a wide range of weather conditions and thus, when traveling, it is important to carry sufficient all-weather, warm clothing for any possible weather conditions, particularly in the late fall, winter and early spring. Carrying extra coats, boots and blankets is a good idea for anyone driving long distances on the highway. Extra precaution is necessary for anyone traveling through mountainous areas. Remain alert to possible weather changes resulting in road closures and road construction.

Restaurants:

Canada has excellent restaurant facilities and a wide variety of possible menus to choose from, when you are travelling. In more remote parts of the country, good restaurants may be many miles apart. It is advisable to carry extra food, dried snacks and drinks for emergencies, as restaurants may be closed. Many places where you can obtain gasoline will have snack foods, sandwiches or restaurant facilities. Make certain that any food you purchase is fresh.

Emergency equipment:

When travelling long distances in Canada by car, it is advisable to carry extra, emergency equipment in case of flat tires, motor vehicle problems or possible accidents. Carrying a cell phone is a good idea, but be aware that there are remote areas where cell phones do not have reception. Always alert someone to your potential destination and expected arrival time. Report any unusual emergency conditions to the appropriate authorities, as well as family members, when necessary. 

Strangers:

As in any country, there are numerous transients or strangers who are hitch hiking along the highways. Be aware of the possible danger of picking up strangers, as it is not advisable under any circumstances.    

These are just a few basic, common sense guidelines for anyone travelling in Canada, particularly when driving across the country. Note there may be other safety concerns for anyone travelling by bus, plane or train in Canada.