If you’re like us, you’ve been itching to get travelling again! Thankfully the world is starting to reopen to personal and business travel again, but there have been some changes. 

Travel hasn’t been the same since the pandemic, but that’s why working with travel professionals like us is more important than ever. We can help you understand the changes and travel restrictions you need to know for your trip.

Check your travel insurance

Make sure you have travel and medical insurance for your trip. Be sure to check if there are any trip cancellation benefits (in case you need to cancel your travel due to illness) and if you have any COVID medical benefits should you contract the virus while travelling or need to cancel a trip because you test positive for the illness. If you’re not sure what’s covered and what’s not, ask your insurer or travel advisor to explain it to you. 

Pack face masks (and hand sanitizer)

Even if it may not be mandatory where you live, you may need to wear masks in certain places. You may also feel more comfortable wearing masks in crowded places too. Pack some disposable or reusable masks just in case. 

And pack lots of sanitizer too.

Provide vaccination status proof

Some places will require up-to-date vaccinations and some may require a booster within a certain time period before your trip too. Bring digital and paper copies of your vaccination records to show proof when required.

The vaccination rules are subject to change, but as of right now, here is what we know:

• Cruises (in Canada): Everyone aged 12 and over must be fully vaccinated. Some cruise lines have other rules so check with them before you book.
• Air Travel (Canada and International): Everyone aged 12 years + 4 months must be fully vaccinated with an approved vaccine. You must also wear a mask throughout your time in the airport and on the plane except when eating or drinking or other approved activities.
• ArriveCan App: All people travelling to or from Canada must submit an ArriveCan declaration within 72 hours prior to arrival to Canada. This includes when you are returning to Canada after your international travel. 

There are exemptions to these vaccination and mask-wearing rules so ask your travel agent or doctor if an exemption applies to you. Be prepared that even if you have an exemption in your home country, it may not be valid in another country. 

Also, be prepared for random COVID testing at borders, even if you are fully vaccinated and have completed your ArriveCan App.

Check travel advisories

This shouldn’t be new as you should have been checking travel advisories even pre-COVID, but with the evolving state of the world, always check travel restrictions to all countries and regions you are travelling through or to. Your travel agent can help advise and alert you to any travel restrictions that may apply to your trip. 

Ultimately your travel agent is your best source of travel-related advice and up-to-date information on advisories and travel requirements. If you’re planning a group or student trip, we’re the gals to call to ensure everyone meets travel and COVID requirements…and that everyone has a fantastic time!