Canada Trip Planner: Planning a trip to Canada in 10 easy steps

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Planning a trip to Canada? We got you covered! From cosmopolitan cities to breathtaking landscapes, Canada has something to offer visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, there’s a perfect destination in Canada waiting for you. In this Canada trip planner, we have included a detailed guide with insights on sightseeing, budget, seasons, and packing. 

Planning a trip to Canada: The Ultimate Canada Trip Planner

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With a lot to offer, planning a trip to Canada can be exciting but can also cause confusion if you are not prepared. By doing some research beforehand, you can make sure your trip is everything you hoped for and more!

So in a nutshell, the first step is to decide what cities and/or national parks you would like to visit and what attractions you would like to see. Once that is sorted out, you can get your visa and make travel arrangements. 

Finally, be sure to pack appropriately for the weather conditions in Canada. 

Canada Trip Planner: Planning a trip to Canada in 10 easy steps

• Step 1: Choose where to go in Canada
• Step 2: Pick a month/season to visit Canada
• Step 3: Set a budget for your Canadian getaway
• Step 4: Finalise your Canada itinerary
• Step 5: Apply for tourist visa or any documents 
• Step 6: Book hotels/accommodation 
• Step 7: Book tours, permits, etc
• Step 8: Get travel insurance
• Step 9: Pack your bags
• Step 10: Arrive! 

In the Canada travel guide below, we will cover all the basic information plus insider tips to get you trip ready. You will also find a step-by-step guide in the following sections to help you book everything with ease (including packing your bags right!)

Canada: Country information

Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. It is the world’s second-largest country by total area, and its capital city is Ottawa. Canada’s economy is the tenth-largest in the world, and its currency is the Canadian dollar.

• Capital city: Ottawa (Ontario)
• Currency: Canadian dollars (CAD$)
• Dialing code: +1
• Population: 38 million (2020)
• Provinces: Canada is made up of 10 provinces and 3 territories
• Regions: Atlantic Provinces, Central Canada, Prairie Provinces, West Coast, and the Northern Territories (5 regions)
• Languages: English and French (Canada has two official languages, but English is widely spoken)

Read: More interesting facts about Canada

Getting to Canada: Transportation and visa information

The most common way to get to Canada is by air, and there are a number of airports that you can fly into. The busiest airport in Canada is Toronto Pearson International Airport, followed by Vancouver International Airport and Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.

There are a number of different Canadian airlines that offer flights to Canada, including Air Canada, WestJet, and international carriers (such as United Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, KLM, TAP Portugal, etc). 

It is important to book your flight well in advance, as flights can sell out during peak travel periods. For travel within Canada, you can opt for budget airlines like Swoop or Flair – they connect you to major cities for an affordable price (baggage fees are extra). 

When traveling from the US, you can take advantage of the land border crossings in places like Toronto/Kitchener (Ontario), or in Vancouver (British Columbia). 

Getting a tourist visa to Canada

Before you can enter the country, you (non-visa-exempt countries) will need to get a visa from the Canadian embassy in your home country. This can take some time to process, so apply as soon as possible and confirm that it is in order before your trip begins.

When applying for a visa, you will need to provide specific information such as your name, date of birth, passport number, and place of residence. You will also need to provide a reason for traveling to Canada, such as tourism, business, or study.

Other documents such as financial information, employment records, and your trip itinerary are required. Don’t forget to add travel insurance to this list. 

It is important to note that the requirements for getting a visa can vary depending on your country of citizenship.

eTA 

For US passport holders and other visa-exempt nationals, you do not have to apply for a visa. Instead, you will have to apply for an electronic Travel Authorization (known as an eTA) for your trip to Canada. 

It costs $7 CAD (you can find more information here). This is also required if you are transiting through a Canadian airport. 

What to budget for a trip to Canada? 

Canada is a great destination for those looking to experience unique landscapes and indulge in outdoor activities, but it is not a budget getaway. 

When traveling from the US, the prices of accommodation, food, and car rental may not make a huge difference, but when visiting the Great White North from some of the European, Asian, or African countries, Canada may seem very expensive. 

But it is possible to stick to a budget by planning your itinerary well, and timing your visit (peak season vs low season). 

Plus there are many affordable accommodation options and restaurants available, and many attractions can be enjoyed free of charge like provincial parks. 

Some tips for experiencing Canada on a budget include:

• staying in hostels or camping grounds
• eating at fast food restaurants, or buying groceries
• visiting attractions that are free of charge, along with paid sites
• using public transportation can save money instead of renting a car. But for this you need to stick to a few cities, or just explore a city with a few day trips

Typically prices include: 

Note: Prices that you see listed in menus and store items are the base price, and upon check out provincial and federal taxes are added, as applicable. 

For mid-budget travelers: 

We recommend a daily budget of $150-$175 CAD for exploring cities. 

This includes a 3 to 4-star hotel on a twin share basis ($75) and lunch and dinner at a sit-down restaurant – a meal with a drink ($15 to $30). 

Transportation (daily passes $8), and car rental (daily starts $25) will be additional.

• 3 to 4-star hotel on a twin share basis ($150/2= $75)
• Lunch and dinner at a sit-down restaurant – a meal with a drink ($15 to $30)
• Transportation (daily passes $8), car rental (daily starts $25)
• Walking tours, museum passes, etc ($10 – $50)

**Flights are not included.

For national parks, you must pay entrance fees to enter. This starts at $20 CAD for cars. A daily pass is valid for 24 hours or the next day at 4:00 p.m. 

Once you’ve gotten inside the park, check out lakes, go on hikes, and admire the scenery for free. However, there are extra costs associated with additional sightseeing (like gondola rides or guided tours). 

Toll fares are not very common in Canada. But parking fees apply in parks and cities. Many hotels in downtown areas will include valet and parking fees of $25 CAD and above. 

Accommodation near airports and some apartment hotels may include free parking and breakfast. 

When is the best time to visit Canada?

Canada experiences 4 distinct seasons. They are

• Spring: March to May
• Summer: June to August
• Fall: September to November
• Winter: December to February

The best time to visit Canada varies depending on what you want to do. If you want to see the snow and indulge in winter activities like skiing, ice skating, then December through February is the best time to go. 

However, if you want to enjoy the outdoors, go camping and explore Canada’s natural attractions, the summer months from May to September are the best time to visit.

Summers and early fall are peak tourist seasons in Canada, so expect accommodation prices in national parks to be high/expensive and crowds everywhere. When planning to camp, ensure you book a reservation ahead of time, online by April. 

Our personal favorite time to explore Canada is in the fall (especially right after Labour Day – or after the first week of September). 

During this time, days are still warmer and it’s nice outside. The school year starts in September, so you can expect fewer crowds!

Canada is a beautiful country to visit during the winter months. And after summers, this is the next peak season. 

In the winters, you can enjoy skiing, ice skating in a natural rink, and other activities. There are many ski resorts located in the mountains, and the scenery is breathtaking. 

If you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding, be sure to book your trip in advance. The resorts can be quite busy during the winter months.

Another popular activity in Canada during the winter is ice fishing. Ice fishing can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to dress warmly and be aware of the dangers involved. A permit is also required for this activity. 

And not to forget Christmas markets and festivals, shows, and seasonal menus delight everyone during the winter in Canada. 

If you are visiting Canada during the winter months, be sure to research the weather conditions in the area you will be visiting. Some areas of Canada can be colder than others.

What to see in Canada? Canada travel destinations for your bucket list

When planning a trip to Canada, you need to understand that the country is huge, and each province and territory is different with its unique culture and landscape. But rest assured you will find something to suit your personal travel style and interests!

If you’re interested in nature and outdoor activities, some good places to visit include the Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, Jasper, and Banff National Park along with Lake Louise.

Canada is home to many UNESCO World Heritage site complexes, as well as many national historic site and related landmarks. 

If you’re interested in historical sites, some good places to visit include Quebec City, Montreal, and Toronto in central or eastern Canada. 

And if you’re interested in shopping and nightlife, some good places to visit include Vancouver and Calgary in western Canada.

Toronto: Toronto is one of the popular Canadian destinations. It is known for its towering skyscrapers and diverse culture.

There are plenty of things to do in Toronto, from visiting the CN Tower to exploring the Eaton Centre, enjoying the harbourfront and world-class museums and galleries including the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario.

From Toronto, you can also check off the stunning Niagara Falls and enjoy ice wine and vineyards in the Niagara-On-The-Lake region. 

Quebec City: Quebec City is famous for its European charm, and is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a romantic getaway. It is one of the oldest cities in North America and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical landmarks, including the Chateau Frontenac.

Montreal: Montreal, located in the province of Quebec, is the second-largest city in Canada and can be a great destination for tourists. The city is predominantly French-speaking, so it can be a good idea to brush up on your French before visiting. 

Montreal is home to a variety of attractions, including the Notre Dame Basilica, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and Mount Royal Park. The city also has lively nightlife and is home to many restaurants and bars.

Vancouver:  As the largest city in British Columbia, Vancouver is a popular destination for tourists. There are a number of things to see and do in the city, including Stanley Park, Granville Island, and Gastown. It is known for its stunning scenery, and is a great place to go hiking or skiing in the nearby resort town of Whistler! 

Vancouver is a major center for business and finance as well. The city has a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious ones.

On the west coast, you can also visit places like the Sunshine Coast, Pacific Rim National Park, and the beautiful city of Victoria on Vancouver Island. 

Banff National Park: Banff National Park is a beautiful park located in the Canadian Rockies in Alberta. The park is home to a number of different wildlife species, including bears, deer, and elk. There are also a number of different hiking trails in Banff, which offer hikers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. 

Banff is a great place to visit during all four seasons. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and dog sledding. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping. 

Churchill Manitoba: Churchill Manitoba is a small town located in the north of Canada. The town is known for its polar bears, which can be seen walking through the town during the winter months.

There are a number of different tour companies in Churchill that offer tours of the town and its surrounding areas. The park can be reached by train or by plane (with no road access!). This is a must-add to your Canada bucket list!

Cape Breton Island: Cape Breton is located on the eastern coast of the country (in the province of Nova Scotia), and is known for its beautiful scenery and friendly people. It is a great place to visit during the summer when the weather is warm and the days are long. There are a number of things to do in the area, including hiking, biking, and swimming.

St. John’s: St. John’s is the capital city of the province of Newfoundland. It is also home to many beautiful parks and gardens as well as many art galleries.  The most popular museum in the city is The Rooms, which offers exhibits on Newfoundland culture and history.

Other popular museums in the city include The Johnson Geo Centre, Railway Coastal Museum, and Newfoundland Museum. 

Charlottetown: Charlottetown is the capital city of Prince Edward Island. The city is the largest in the province and is the home of the Confederation Centre of the Arts, which is a major tourist attraction. The city also has a number of other historical sites, including Government House and Beaconsfield Historic House.

Yukon: The Yukon is a territory in northwest Canada. Its capital and largest city is Whitehorse. The Yukon is home to many amazing natural attractions, including glaciers, mountains, forests, and rivers. There are also many historic sites in the territory, including Dawson City, which was once the capital of the Yukon gold rush.

This is one of the offbeat places to visit in Canada and is a great place to explore the outdoors. There are many activities available for visitors, including hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and chasing northern lights!

Create your Canada travel itinerary

The best way to make the most of your time in Canada is to create an itinerary. This will allow you to plan out your days and ensure that you see all the attractions you want to visit.

Here is an example of a five-day itinerary for Toronto and nearby areas

Day 1: Arrive in Toronto and explore the city center

Day 2: Visit the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Hockey Hall of Fame

Day 3: Take a day trip to Niagara Falls

Day 4: Visit the Royal Ontario Museum and Casa Loma

Day 5: Spend time exploring the neighborhoods of Toronto

We have a detailed guide to Canada itinerary samples here, ranging from 7 to 14 days. 

Keep in mind, Canada is huge, and connecting from one province to another will take a lot of time by road unless you are flying.

When you plan your trip, choose cities and nearby small towns and national/provincial parks for a wholesome experience of culture and nature!

To create your own itinerary, 

• start by choosing the cities and parks you want to visit. 
• once you have that sorted out, use Google maps and check the distance. Start with the nearest or the biggest airport. Like if you are planning to visit Banff National Park, opt to fly to Calgary, and then drive to Banff town, stay there for the duration of your trip, and then visit the various lakes (read our 10 day Canadian Rockies itinerary)
• research the attractions and activities available in each destination, and make a list

Be sure to take into account the distance between different places, weather conditions and pack accordingly. You will also need to book accommodation, tours, and any permits required for your trip! 

Canada road trip planner

If you’re looking for a fun and adventurous way to see Canada, consider taking a road trip. There are many different routes you can take, and each one offers its own unique set of attractions.

The Trans-Canada Highway is a great option if you want to see the entire country. This route travels from coast to coast and offers beautiful views of the Canadian landscape. The Rocky Mountains are a particularly popular attraction on this route.

If you’re interested in exploring more rural areas of Canada, consider taking the Alaska Highway. This route runs through some of the country’s most remote regions and offers stunning views of glaciers and mountains. Or drive through the three Prairie provinces!

No matter which route you choose, be sure to plan your trip in advance. Here is our Canada road trip planning guide with sample routes! 

Tips about driving in Canada

If you’re planning to drive in Canada, you’ll need a valid driver’s license and auto insurance. You must have it with you whenever you’re driving. 

If you plan to use a foreign driver’s license in Canada, you should get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country. You can’t use a driver’s license from a different country, except for a few exceptions. Like the USA.

A driver’s license and insurance from the United States are also valid in Canada for a short while (up to 90 days in some provinces). 

Individual driving laws vary from province to province in Canada. But everywhere you will find road signs in English and French (and French only in Quebec), and directions and speed limits are clearly posted. 

We drive on the right side of the road.

Car rental in Canada: In addition to a valid driver’s license, you’ll also need to carry your passport with you at all times. Auto or car insurance is also required to rent a vehicle and drive in Canada.

It is important to note that to rent a car in Canada, you must be at least 21 years of age, except in Saskatchewan and/or Quebec, where it is 18.

Car rental fees can also be expensive, so do budget for that when planning your trip. A sedan starts at $25-28 CAD per day plus insurance and other add-ons.

For car rentals, you can use Expedia.ca to reserve a vehicle.

Winter driving across Canada: If you’re not comfortable driving in winter conditions, you may want to consider renting a car with four-wheel drive. Many Canadian roads are closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, so it’s important to be prepared for adverse weather conditions.

Do check the weather conditions for your destination in Canada before starting your trip. Always keep your cell phone fully charged with emergency numbers saved in. 

Also pack an emergency kit with snacks, a flashlight, and a warm jacket or blanket with you. It is a good idea to have emergency roadside assistance services (like those from AMA and CAA). 

Read: How to plan a road trip in Canada

Booking your accommodation, tours and other permits

When planning a trip to Canada, it is important to book your accommodation in advance. There are a number of different types of accommodation available in Canada, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and camping.

If you’re looking for a hotel in a major city like Toronto or Vancouver, be prepared to pay a high price. However, there are also a number of budget-friendly options available. 

Motels can be a good option if you’re looking for something cheap and close to the city center. Bed and breakfasts can also be a good option if you’re looking for a more homey atmosphere. These cities also have approved Airbnb accommodations for short and long term stays!

We use Booking.com to book our hotels and other accommodation. They have detailed reviews that help us to make an informed decision when it comes to booking our stays. 

If you’re interested in camping, Canada has many beautiful camping spots located in national parks. To get the most out of your camping experience, be sure to book in advance and check that the campsite you choose can accommodate your specific needs. 

Do reserve your campsites and RV parking spots ahead of time. 

Lastly, we recommend using GetYourGuide to book your tours and attractions passes. They are our absolute favorite travel partner and they also have a generous cancellation policy!

What to pack for Canada? Canada Packing List

When packing for Canada it is important to bring the right kind of clothes for both warm and cold months. Read our detailed guide to what to wear in Canada here

Here’s a quick list of things to pack for Canada, from clothing, electronics to documents

Clothing:

• Pack a few tops, blouses and skirts for the duration of your trip
• Dresses are great for summer and late spring and early fall months
• Add bottoms like a nice pair of jeans or trousers. Wear shorts for hikes, and summer sightseeing
• Bring warm leggings and thermal tops (long john) for winter
• Lightweight jackets with waterproof material and rain gear 
• Sweater, fleece jacket or cardigan is a must add all year round
• Pack a warm parka or wool coat (good for cities) for winters
• Plus snow pants
• Add winter accessories like toques, scarves, gloves as it gets very cold when it is snowing
• Carry swimwear to enjoy our Nordic spa, or hot springs in the summer months 
• In terms of footwear, pack sandals and comfortable walking shoes for the summer months
• Add hiking boots for exploring Canada’s many attractions such as nature parks and historical sites such as castles and forts
• In the winters, don’t forget to bring your warm boots with a solid outsole and insulation to withstand cold temperatures upto – 30 degrees Celsius. Plus socks

Electronics:

• Adapter: Canada uses two associated plug types – A and B. Plug type A has two flat parallel pins and B has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. It also operates on a 120V supply voltage and 60Hz. So when traveling from the UK, EU or India, you will need to use a convertor and adapter duo to charge electronics in Canada. 
• Bring your cellphone, charging cables, and power bank
• Camera gear: We carry our Sony a6000 and Sony a7III on all of our trips! Don’t forget to pack yours!

Documents:

• Tourist visa and eTA: Remember to apply for your tourist visa and/or an Electronic travel authorization (ETA) prior to arriving here
• Travel Insurance: For your visa approval, and otherwise, travel insurance is important. This document will protect against medical emergency-related expenses, or in the event of baggage loss or flight delays
• Cash and credit card: Canada uses Canadian dollars. Cash and credit cards are widely accepted everywhere
• Other travel documents: Do save a copy of all of your hotel bookings, tours, and other related activities. Don’t forget your driver’s license!

Culture in Canada: What to expect in Canada?

We, as Canadians, are proud of our country and culture. 

As former immigrants to the country, we can say that people here are friendly and helpful (and that’s why we decided to make it our permanent home). 

So here is what you can expect in Canada, 

• Locals are generally polite and conservative people, and expect others to behave in the same way. Be sure to say please and thank you, and avoid any rude behavior
• In most cases, Canadians will shake hands when meeting someone for the first time
• When dining out, it is customary to wait until everyone at the table has been served before starting to eat
• At the end of a meal in a restaurant, it is common to leave between 10% and 20% of the bill as a tip. If you can’t afford to tip that much, you can tell the server that they can keep the change.

As a country, Canada can offer a unique experience of mixing with locals and tourists alike.

It can be difficult to get around Canada if you can’t speak English. Some cities, like Montreal and rural areas in Quebec, are predominantly French-speaking, which can make it challenging if you can only speak English. 

Our tip is to download a translation app, or learn a few words in French to communicate with locals and service staff. 

Canada is beautiful and people here are very welcoming! With many things to see and do, there is something for everyone here!

Canada trip planner: An easy to follow Canada Travel Checklist

When planning a trip to Canada, you can follow this checklist (and use all the tips we listed above!)

Step 1: Choose where to go in Canada

Canada is a huge country with many different landscapes and attractions to explore. 

If you’re not sure where to start, consider visiting some of the country’s most popular destinations, such as Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal. These cities are all home to a variety of attractions, including museums, parks, and restaurants.

If you are interested in nature and outdoor activities, consider visiting one of the country’s many national parks such as Banff, Jasper and many provincial parks on the east as well as the west coast!

Step 2: Pick a time – month or season to travel to Canada

Once you know what you wish to explore in Canada, now is the time to make a decision on ‘when’ to visit. 

Now the best time to visit Canada depends on what you want to do. If you want to see the snow and related activities, then winter is the best time. Plan a visit around December through February. 

If you want to enjoy the warmer weather, then summer is the best time. This is also great for those wanting to camp, go hiking and enjoy road trips! 

Summer months are from June to August, and it is a peak season, so do book everything in advance!

For those chasing fall foliage, plan to visit in September or early October. Spring is nice to beat the crowds and enjoy deep discounts in accommodation in various places across Canada. 

Step 3: Set a budget for your Canadian getaway

When planning a trip to Canada, it’s important to set a budget and make sure you stick to it. 

Start with the flight tickets. Then accommodation is next. 

The best way to do this is by figuring out how much money you can afford to spend on travel (flights + transport) and accommodation, and then dividing that amount by the number of days you’ll be spending in Canada. 

Remember, you can save money by sticking to a single province (city + day trip combination), and by taking public transportation instead of renting a car.

Another tip is to save money by cooking your own food. (Do refer to our budget estimation in the section above)

Step 4: Finalise your Canada itinerary 

The next step is to finalize your Canada travel itinerary. 

Decide which cities you would like to visit and what attractions you would like to see. You can find a lot of information about the different places to visit in Canada in our travel blog, and then choose something to your liking and personal interests. 

Once you have a general idea, start making a list of tours and bookings that you need to make. 

Step 6: Get your travel documents sorted

Once you have chosen your destination and a rough itinerary, it’s time to get your travel visa to Canada. For Canadians, a passport or a valid government ID can be used to travel within the country.

For US passport holders, you will have to apply for an electronic Travel Authorization (known as an eTA) for your trip to Canada. It costs $7 CAD (you can find more information here)

eTA also applies to all visa-exempt foreign nationals who wish to visit or transit through a Canadian airport. 

For those international visitors who do not belong to a visa-exempt country, will have to apply for a Canadian Tourist Visa, prior to their trip. Most tourist visas are granted for a maximum of 10 years, or until the passport expires. 

Ensure you have a valid passport when you apply, and attach all of your financial documents, employment records, contact information in Canada and a rough itinerary along with travel insurance! 

Note: For all travelers to Canada, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned return date and that you have enough blank pages for visa stamps. If you need to renew your passport, do so well in advance of your trip. 

Step 7: Booking hotels, car rental, tours and other travel arrangements

Now you can start making reservations for hotels, tours and car rental (if necessary).

Use Booking.com to book your hotels and accommodation. We rely on their extensive inventory and reviews to make an informed decision when it comes to booking our stays. 

For car rentals, you can use Expedia.ca and reserve a vehicle.

Lastly, any type of attractions passes, and guided tours can be booked via GetYourGuide, which is our absolute travel partner! 

Step 8: Buy travel insurance 

When traveling to Canada, it is important to have travel insurance. This will protect you in case of an emergency or unexpected event. 

There are many different types of travel insurance available, so be sure to compare policies and find the one that best suits your needs. 

Step 9: Packing for Canada trip

After getting your visa and making travel arrangements, it is important to pack appropriately for the weather conditions in Canada. 

During the summer, warm temperatures can be found in all parts of the country. 

During the winter, however, Canada can experience freezing cold weather – so make sure your warm jacket or a parka is packed!

Here is a quick packing list for summer and winter months

• Tops (shirts, blouses, etc)
• Dresses and skirts
• Bottoms (pants, shorts, etc)
• Loungewear
• Lightweight waterproof jacket
• Light cardigan or fleece jacket
• Walking and/or hiking shoes
• Moisture-wicking socks
• Thermal wear or Long johns (winter)
• Waterproof warm parka (winter)
• Snow pants (winter)
• Scarves (winter)
• Gloves 
• Warm toque (winter)
• Warm socks (winter)
• Winter boots
• Toiletries (sunscreen, cold cream or moisturizer, etc.) 
• Electronic essentials
• Travel documents (visa, tour and hotel bookings, insurance, etc.)

Step 10: Arrive in Canada – Bienvenue au Canada

Set your alarm and get ready to fly (drive) to Canada.

When you first arrive in Canada, the first thing you’ll want to do is get oriented. 

Pick up a map of the city and find out where the main attractions are. Once you have a general idea of where things are, you can start sightseeing!

10 Canada Travel Tips

Here are our final 10 top Canada travel tips that you must know (these are the major takeaways from this article!)

1. Visa requirements can vary depending on your nationality, so be sure to check the visa requirements for Canada before you travel.

2. The currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar. Be sure to exchange your money at a bank or currency exchange prior to your trip.

3. Canada is a large country, and distances can be deceiving. When planning your route, be sure to take into account the time it will take to travel between destinations.

4. Many of Canada’s provinces and territories are vast and sparsely populated, so plan on driving long distances if you’re exploring rural areas.

5. Canada is a bilingual country, with English and French being the official languages. In some areas, you may hear both languages being spoken. Be sure to brush up on your basic French phrases before traveling to Quebec or New Brunswick.

6. The peak tourist season in Canada is from June to August, so if you’re looking to avoid crowds, plan your trip for September or October.

7. Canada has a diverse climate, with regions that experience all four seasons. Be sure to pack appropriately for the weather conditions in the area you’re visiting.

8. There are many beautiful provincial and national parks in Canada, and entrance fees can range from free to $30 per vehicle. Plan to spend at least one day exploring Canada’s stunning national parks.

9. Tipping is not customary in Canada, and can be considered rude in some cases. However, if you’ve had exceptional service, a tip of 10-20% is appreciated.

10. Canada is a welcoming country with a rich culture and history.

Canada is a vast country with plenty to see and do, so planning your trip can be a daunting task. But with these tips, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful country. 

So don’t wait, start planning today!

Pin: Plan a trip to Canada + Canada trip planning guide

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