Whether your next vacation includes the sandy beaches of the Caribbean or the unique castles of Europe, there are a number of things you can do before leaving home to help make sure you are happy and healthy on your trip:
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Keep credit cards and travellers' cheques, passports and other identification in several different places and make two photocopies of the main information page of your passport - one for someone staying at home and the other for you to keep separately from your passport. |
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Use pockets or purses only for items you'll need frequently. Be sure to use a money belt or take advantage of hotel safety deposit boxes so that you won't be left without identification or money if your wallet is lost or stolen. If travelling overseas and you lose your passport, call the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate immediately as well as local authorities. |
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With airfares creeping up again, more travellers will likely opt for cheaper, non-refundable tickets. Don't risk losing your entire travel investment should something unexpected happen. Purchase Cancellation & Interruption insurance to help protect your investment in case you have to cancel your trip, come home early, or stay later at your destination. Please remember - this coverage must be purchased within 48 hours of booking your trip. |
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Airports are reporting longer waiting times for travellers as the result of new security measures. Go early to give yourself plenty of time to make your flight and avoid that stressful last-minute dash to the gate. |
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Remember that medical treatment outside of the Canada can be very expensive and your health insurance or insurance offered with your credit card may only cover a limited part of these costs. Find out exactly what you're covered for before you leave for vacation, and purchase travel insurance to fill in any coverage gaps. |
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Make sure your passport is current. Some countries require that passports be valid six months beyond expected departure dates. Make sure you're aware of the individual requirements of the country you are visiting, including whether you will need a visa or pay entry fees. |
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Make sure to carry your travel insurance policy with you, along with the phone numbers you need to call in the event of an emergency. Leave a copy of this information at home with family or friends, as well. |
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Make sure you're up to date on all your immunizations. Contact your doctor well in advance of your trip to see if you need any specific medication or immunizations. To find out more about medical issues related to international travel, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada's website (www.TravelHealth.gc.ca). |
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Medication that is legal in Canada may not necessarily be legal in the country you are visiting. If you're bringing prescription pills, check to make sure they are allowed in the country you are visiting and be sure to bring a copy of your prescription. |
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Check to see if any travel advisories or warnings have been issued for your destination. |
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Gastrointestinal illness is one of the most common illnesses affecting tourists. To minimize the risk of such discomfort, consume only foods that have been well cooked. Fruits and vegetables should be freshly peeled or cooked. Drink bottled beverages, especially water, or hot drinks such as coffee or tea. Avoid ice that isn't made with purified water. And wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. |
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Provide your family and friends with a copy of your itinerary and keep them informed of any changes. Be sure to give them your daily contact information, copies of the identification page of your passport, and travel insurance information. |
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Tell your neighbours you're going on vacation. Ask if your neighbours can pick up your mail, park a car in your driveway and, if need be, shovel snow. Also be sure to suspend daily newspaper delivery as a pile of papers on the stoop is an obvious sign that nobody is at home. Just don't forget to return the favour to your neighbour. |
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If you're travelling in warmer or tropical climates, don't forget to wear sunscreen that blocks out both UVA and UVB rays - SPF 15 or higher is recommended. |
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Choosing the right insurance
Learn about the different travel insurance coverages we sell through travel agents. A travel agent can help you choose the right one to make sure you and your family are properly protected. |
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