Essential Canada Travel Tips

Preparing for your Canadian journey involves understanding local customs, climate considerations, and practical details that ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Weather and Packing

Understanding Canadian Seasons

Eastern Canada experiences distinct seasons with significant temperature variations:

• Summer (June-August): Warm and humid, typically 20-30 degrees Celsius. Pack light, breathable clothing, but bring a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces.
• Fall (September-November): Cooling temperatures from 15 degrees to below freezing by late November. Layering is essential.
• Winter (December-March): Cold, often below freezing, with snow. Insulated waterproof boots, warm coats, hats, and gloves are necessary.
• Spring (April-May): Variable weather from chilly to pleasant. Pack layers and rain gear.

Packing Essentials

• Comfortable walking shoes suitable for cobblestones in Old Montreal and Quebec City
• Rain jacket or umbrella (rain possible any season)
• Layers for temperature-controlled environments
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat) for outdoor activities
• Power adapters if coming from outside North America (Canada uses Type A/B plugs, 120V)

Currency and Payments

Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Major credit cards are accepted virtually everywhere, and debit cards often work internationally. ATMs are widely available. Contactless payment (tap) is extremely common in Canada.

Tipping Customs

• Restaurants: 15-20% of pre-tax bill
• Tour guides: $5-10 CAD per person per day for exceptional service
• Motor coach drivers: $3-5 CAD per person per day
• Hotel porters: $2-3 CAD per bag
• Taxis: 15% of fare

Health and Safety

Canada is generally very safe for visitors. Violent crime is rare in tourist areas. Standard travel precautions apply: secure valuables, be aware of surroundings.

Healthcare

Canada has excellent healthcare facilities, but services are not free for visitors. Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended. Emergency services are reached by dialing 911.

Water and Food Safety

Tap water is safe throughout Canada. Food hygiene standards are high.

Communication

Languages

English is dominant in Ontario; French predominates in Quebec, though English is widely understood in tourist areas. Most Canadians are patient and helpful with visitors.

Mobile Phones and WiFi

Check with your carrier about international roaming rates. Canada uses the same mobile frequencies as the United States. Free WiFi is available at most hotels and many restaurants.

Cultural Etiquette

Canadians are known for politeness and helpfulness:

• Greet people with a smile and eye contact
• Queue (line up) patiently; cutting in line is very rude
• Say "please" and "thank you" frequently
• Respect personal space in conversation
• In Quebec, attempting basic French phrases is appreciated

Shopping and Souvenirs

Popular Canadian souvenirs include:

• Maple syrup and maple products
• Indigenous art and crafts
• Ice wine from Niagara region
• Hudson's Bay Company wool blankets
• Canadian sports team merchandise

Note: Prices displayed in stores do not include tax. Provincial and federal taxes (typically 13-15% combined in Ontario and Quebec) are added at checkout.

Check Toronto weather forecast before packing.