10 Travel Tips Every Canadian Should Know Before Boarding a Plane This Summer
If you have an upcoming trip or are thinking of taking a flight out of one of Canada’s airports, there are a few things you should keep in mind before leaving.
Airports across the country are currently experiencing major delays amid extremely busy travel times, with many passengers reporting long wait times, missing baggage and last-minute flight cancellations.
Fortunately, CAA South Central Ontario has put together a list of tips travelers should know before trying to navigate the travel industry.
“Those thinking of booking a trip should make sure they understand the scope of what the trip looks like at the moment,” said Nadia Matos, manager of external communications at CAA SCO. “The checklist for trip planning has changed and we want to help people navigate this new environment.”
The CAA has released 10 tips that Canadians should keep in mind before they move on.
Expect schedule changes
The CAA says to be aware that there may be schedule changes for flights. The association recommends subscribing to the airline’s text message service to notify you of any updates and leave more space between connecting flights, if possible.
“A travel agent is also a valuable resource if this happens,” it said.
Consider opting for carry-on instead of checking bags
With many travelers reporting missing luggage, you may want to consider using carry-on instead of looking at the luggage on your flight. If you’re using a carry-on, you’ll want to make sure it meets the required size for that flight.
“When using a travel carryon, you still need to follow the 3-1-1 rule: three ounces of liquid, gel, aerosol, cream or paste that fits in a quart-sized resealable bag,” the CAA said. .
If you choose to check luggage, the CAA recommends making sure you pack essentials such as hygiene products, medicine and a change of clothes in your luggage.
Expect longer wait times
Amid the long lines and delays experienced recently, airlines and airports are asking travelers to arrive earlier for flights than ever before.
“The old standby of being at the airport one hour before flying for domestic flights and two hours before international flights no longer applies,” the CAA said.
Instead, passengers are advised to be at the airport at least three hours before international flights and at least two hours before domestic flights.
Prepare travel documents before you book
Passport delays have plagued Canadians throughout the spring and summer, and the federal government says it is introducing measures to help eliminate the backlog.
With this in mind, you’ll want to make sure you have enough time to renew your passport before your trip, if necessary.
“Your passport should still be valid six months after the date of your travel, as it is required in some countries,” the CAA said. “Each destination has different documentation requirements, so make sure you fully understand what information you need to prepare and in what format.”
Buy travel insurance (and make sure you understand it)
It’s important to note that the world is still interacting with COVID-19, which can affect things like what your travel insurance actually covers.
“Make sure you have $ 5 million in coverage for emergency medical situations and include that disease associated with COVID-19,” the CAA said. “Understand your rights for situations such as refusal to ride in the event of a positive test, trip cancellation or delay, what luggage is covered and what is not.”
Book a car rental in advance
The high travel demand in addition to an ongoing car shortage means it can be difficult to get a rental car. The CAA recommends booking the rental “months in advance,” and says to use the help of a travel agent.
Note that the COVID-19 is still appropriate
With the return of international travel and so much experience and business reopening, it’s easy to forget that the COVID-19 should still be a “primary consideration” when traveling.
The CAA said it is important to “understand the ongoing uncertainty associated with international travel, whether it is related to the continued delivery of COVID-19 to the community, or the state of health care systems in destinations hit by severe pandemics. . “
Also be sure to remember to use ArriveCAN to submit your information within 72 hours before your arrival in Canada.
Stay connected
“It’s important to have access to trusted, up -to -date information while traveling so you can monitor changing conditions and requirements and adapt accordingly,” the CAA said.
It recommends bookmarking the Global Affairs Canada website before you leave and checking it regularly.
Understand cancellation and change flexibility
Many airlines and hotels have improved their flexibility when it comes to changes or cancellations due to the pandemic.
That said, the CAA advises that “make sure you understand any important dates associated with cancellations and changes and whether you are entitled to a refund or a travel voucher or credit in the future at the time of booking.”
Be patient and kind
Airports and airlines are both experiencing staff shortages that contribute to delays and leave employees overworked. Remember to be kind and patient while on the trip.
“Remember that the staff at the airports are there to help you, and things can take longer than usual.”
