With the arrival of the colder holiday seasons, it's finally time to plan that winter wonderland getaway! Canada is celebrated around the world for its friendly people, welcoming customs, and beautiful nature. If you’re looking for a travel destination to experience the festive winter season and all it has to offer, then look no further than Canada!

Traveling during a pandemic can be hard work, and it can be difficult to know if a destination is safe or not. If you’re planning a trip to Canada soon and are concerned about your health and safety, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Canada in 2021 to make sure your stay is safe and fun this festive season!

Is Canada safe to visit?

The first question you’re probably going to ask yourself is “Is Canada safe to visit now?” To answer your question, the answer is a resounding yes! Crime is scarce and the country has a developed and reputable police force. Although the temperature may be chilly, the people are warm and inviting. It’s regarded as one of the safest, most welcoming, and accepting countries in the world, so you’re bound to have a safe and pleasant time while visiting. 

While your time in Canada may be smooth sailing, that doesn’t mean that you need to forget about travel safety and the pandemic. Even the safest and most protected places and countries in the world have areas and practices that are unsafe, even Canada! Overall, Canada is a very safe country, but that doesn't mean visiting it comes without risks - especially during a pandemic. To give you that extra layer of protection, on your next trip to Canada soon, it's important to take the necessary precautions. Read on to make sure you’re up to date on how to stay safer on your next holiday!

Plan ahead

Staying safe and making sure you enjoy your travels means doing a lot of planning. Before you make any concrete travel plans, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting into when traveling during a pandemic. Make sure you have all the necessary documents from passports to visas, to vaccination records. Check and double-check your bookings and flights and don't forget to pack your medication and other essentials. Having a safe trip is all about going in prepared, no matter the country! Start your trip off on the right foot and make sure to plan to stay safe this holiday season.

Take Covid regulations seriously

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of your travels and forget about important health and safety regulations. Although it is safe to visit Canada now, to protect your health, you need to take Covid regulations seriously. Brush up on the rules and regulations and make sure that you know and follow them. From entering the airport or train station to entering your hotel room, be mindful of your health and others. Stock up on vitamins, social distance, and wear your masks to make sure you stay healthy and safe during your travels. Don’t let a cold or Covid spoil your Canadian holiday!

Transportation safety

Safe and reliable transportation is a huge part of travel safety in Canada. If you’re driving through the country by car or motorcycle, make sure to have a map ready with all the working gas pumps and petrol stations in the area. Getting stuck outside in freezing temperatures is not a good way to spend your holiday! Make sure to pack an emergency first aid kit and plan out your route!

Navigating a new town or city can be a headache for many travelers and in some cases, even dangerous! To avoid any unpleasant situations, always have a few working cab numbers or apps on your phone. Get familiar with the local bus schedules and prices to get around safely and securely. If you’re in an unfamiliar or sketchy location, opt for a taxi or an uber instead of the walk home to stay safe.

Be prepared

Staying safe while traveling amidst a pandemic is all about staying prepared for the occasion. The phrase “prepare for the worst” might seem a little dramatic, but could mean the difference between life and death. Being prepared starts with knowing all the important emergency phone numbers before you touch them down. It also means getting Covid-proof travel insurance so that if anything should happen you’ll be covered. Although healthcare is free in countries like Canada, you wouldn’t want to risk waiting to be treated, or any miscellaneous fees. Go into your next holiday prepared for the worst, to have the best and safest time possible!

Respect the rules

While on your holiday or trip, it’s easy to get distracted and overlook the rules and regulations put in place. Whether you’re exploring the wilderness or visiting the local museums it’s important to respect the rules put in place. Don’t cross any lines or touch anything you’re not supposed to. Respect the rules and don’t bring any firearms or weapons if they’re not allowed. Follow the Covid regulations, wear your masks, and don’t forget to exercise patience when waiting for crowded areas to empty. Whether in a museum, a restaurant, or a national park,  remember that rules and regulations are put in place to keep everyone safe.

Traveling during a pandemic can be difficult, but it becomes much easier with the right tools and info. Canada is one of the safest countries in the world for the average traveler and makes a great holiday destination this season. Traveling to Canada is a breeze by most country’s standards, but that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t come with its own set of risks. To stay on the safe side, before heading off on your trip, remember to do your research. 

Know what you need and what to expect from your trip and make sure you’re packed and ready. Prepare for the worst but hope for the best and remember to take Covid regulations seriously. Be cautious with your transportation and respect the rules of the road and whatever establishment or national park you walk into. Stay safe and remember to enjoy your stay in Canada this festive season!