You've book your flights and hotel, paused the mail, and charged your camera. When travelling, the last thing you want is the headache of realizing you've forgetting essential items. The good news? Our travel experts are here to help you enjoy a stress-free vacation, starting with a travel checklist to help you pack smart.
Whether you are travelling with your family or are packing multiple devices, such as your phone or e-reader, consider your charging requirements before you take off. Packing a power bar with any necessary electrical adapters will help to prevent the disappointment of a dead camera battery on vacation.
Tip: Before you depart, check with your travel agent to see whether or not there are specific electricity needs at your destination.
Depending on your destination, you might be planning to explore with the help of your smartphone. From public WiFi and bathroom locators, to reading material and currency exchange, update your phone with the latest must-have travel apps. Read more on the 6 must-have travel apps.
Tip: Get the most out of your travel-related apps by downloading and using the range of tools each provides before you depart.
No matter where you travel, it's important to pack first aid supplies and medications for the duration of your trip. Illness or minor injuries can be unpredictable, and getting to a pharmacy for bandaids or Tylenol might be difficult.
It's important to pack your travel health kit according to your needs, including any medications or items to manage pre-existing conditions. Pack your kit with staple items, such as cold and flu medicine, bandages, antihistamines, and sun screen.
Learn more about what to pack in your travel health kit.
Tip: In case of flight delays or trip interruptions, pack enough items for longer than the duration of your trip.
Navigating airport terminals or busy tourist areas can be chaotic, oftentimes leading to misplaced or stolen items. Before you go, scan your visas, passport, and other important documents you will need for your trip. This includes your CAA Travel Insurance card, which will connect you with a CAA Assistance agent in case of unexpected situations and emergencies. As an extra level of precaution, email yourself a copy of the scanned documents.
Read more: Navigating proposed changes to Ontario's Out-of-Country Travellers Program >>
Check your passport, credit card and driver's license for expiry dates. If your passport is set to expire in the next few months, stop by your local CAA branch for your free passport photo.
Bookmark this page to refer to it as your trip approaches. Packing these essential items will help you to focus on the most important thing - enjoying your vacation!