We visited Canada for the first time this month and we had an amazing trip. I did a lot of research (as I do) before booking everything, but there were still some things that I wish I’d have known before traveling. I’ll be doing a full Travel Diary post soon, but until then, I hope this post helps you prepare if you’re visiting Canada for the first time.
Travel Documents/Passport
This is pretty basic, but if you’re traveling to Canada from the US you’ll need a passport. If you don’t have a passport already, you will want to start the process as soon as possible because it can take some time to receive after you apply. There are also fees for applying for your passport, so be sure to take that into consideration with your travel budget. The passport renewal process is similar, but you don’t need to make an in-person appointment and can just mail in the renewal application. You can expedite the application processes for a fee, but save your $60 and apply early.
Currency Exchange
Canada has its own currency, and while I read that most touristy areas will accept US dollars, it’s best to head to the bank and swap those dollar bills for the Canadian one dollar coin — called a “loonie” because it has the image of a loon on the back. You can use your credit cards in Canada (make sure you call your credit card company first), but they’ll most likely charge you a 3% conversion fee on every transaction. It’s better to avoid those random fees and just carry cash with you. You can have your local back “sell” you some Canadian dollars before your trip and they will “buy” back and left over bills when you return. Canada also doesn’t use pennies anymore, so you’ll find that your bill is rounded to the nearest $.05. This makes it way easier for everyone.
Credit Card Machines
When you pay for a meal or anything with a credit card in Canada, they bring out a card reader machine to you instead of taking your credit card to the back/register. I know other countries do this, but I’d never experienced it and it just makes sense. Why do we just give our cards away? The card readers make it really easy to quickly pay without letting your credit card out of your sight.
Tipping
Tipping is the same in Canada as it is in America — 15% – 20% at restaurants.
French Language
Some areas of Canada speak French and signs/products have English and French, so you may need to brush up on your French.
Weather + Sunrise/Sunset
The weather in Canada can vary throughout the day, so it’s good to dress in layers. Depending on how far north you are and the time of year, the sun can set very late in the evening — like 10pm. Make sure you pack lots of light layers especially if your trip is in the summer.
Driving
Canada is pretty spaced out, so you will most likely need to drive there or rent a car for your trip. You will need your valid US state-issued driver’s license to drive in Canada. Canada uses the metric system, so you’ll see signs showing the max speed in kilometers/hour. Everyone seemed to be following the speed limits, so I think that Canada must be strict in enforcing its traffic laws even though we never saw any police cars.
Cell Phone/Internet Charges
Unless you have an international plan/add-on package with your cell phone provider, you may incur extra roaming charges to use your phone in Canada. If you are visiting a more populated/touristy area, there’s likely to be free Wi-Fi. Something to keep in mind if you’ll be visiting for a long time or will need reliable internet/phone service.
I hope these 8 tips are helpful for you in planning your trip. Like I mentioned, my Canadian Travel Diary will be up soon, so check back for more tips and pictures of everything we did!
