CAA's pre-travel checklist

Bitten by the travel bug? Rest assured, CAA Travel is here to take the sting out of trip planning, with a pre-travel checklist designed to get you ready for your next big (or little) adventure.

Buy travel insurance that meets your needs

No matter where you choose to travel, CAA Travel Insurance has coverage options designed to protect you against the financial impacts of illness, emergencies, and unexpected mishaps. A CAA Travel Consultant can hook you up with CAA Travel Insurance with flexible plans to fit your every need. CAA Members save up to 20%!*

Give a copy of your itinerary to someone you trust

In the event of an emergency, it’s good to have someone you trust know your travel plans.

Pick up an International Driving Permit

Driving or renting a vehicle abroad? Before you go, check to see if you need an International Driving Permit. An International Driving Permit, or IDP, is a special license that allows motorists to drive vehicles in international traffic without further tests or applications. You can pick one up exclusively from CAA Travel at a CAA Store or by mail.

Register as a Canadian Travelling Abroad

Register with the Government of Canada to be notified in the case of an emergency abroad or a personal emergency at home. Registering with this service will also enable you to be notified before or during a natural disaster or civil unrest.

Double-check your passport validity

Did you know that many countries require a passport to be valid at least six months after your trip is over? If you need to update your passport photo, head to your nearest CAA Store to get your photos done - available in print and digital.

CAA Members receive exclusive discounts on passport photos!

Print copies of all your travel documents

You can’t always rely on technology, so make extra copies of your airline tickets, hotel reservations, and car reservations. It’s also a good idea to make a copy of your passport in case of loss or theft.

Pack light and smart

Save room in your suitcase for souvenirs and mementos. Use packing cubes to keep things organized, and don’t forget to pack a travel adaptor! Pick up some luggage and accessories at a CAA Store and save up to 20%.*

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on

We’ve all heard horror stories of lost luggage. Keep your valuables and spare clothes in your carry-on, just in case.

Arrange transportation to/from departure

CAA Members save on car rentals, hotels, train tickets, and more when you show your CAA card.
Book through CAA Travel or online to receive Member-only benefits.

Research where you can convert currency at the best rates

Airport kiosks or locations at your destination can often have much higher currency conversion rates than other currency exchange options, such as your bank or a local currency exchange business.

Speaking of currency, invest in a reliable and comfortable money belt

Bring a waist pouch or money belt with you on your travels to keep your money and important travel documents safe.

Research the culture

Learn about customs and socially appropriate or inappropriate words/sayings/gestures for the destination you’re travelling to.

Translation

Grab a travel-size translation dictionary or download a translation app on your mobile phone to help you get around your destination without too much of a language barrier.

Stay updated

Check if your destination has a travel advisory issued for it by the Government of Canada.

Verify documents

Check if any additional documents are required to travel to your chosen destination (specific types of travel visas, or other supporting documentation based on your individual situation).

Refill your medications

Ensure that you are taking enough of your medications with you to last the duration and a little extra should you find yourself stuck with travel delays. You don’t want to be left without your needed medication.

Speaking of medications, sometimes it’s easier to bring with you your prescription to go along with the medications incase you are stopped during customs and questioned about the medications.

Check the weather forecast

Look into the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly—sunny destinations aren’t sunny every day; they get rainstorms and cool, windy days. Don’t be stuck without clothing essentials to keep you comfortable with what Mother Nature throws your way!

Ask a family member, friend or close neighbour you trust

While away, look after collecting your mail, maintaining your yard, and checking in on your home for any issues (water leaks, heat failure). This is often required by home insurance policies and rental agreements and can help make your home look livelier and deter opportunity-seeking thieves. Timed and/or sensor lights around and inside your home can also help make it look like someone’s home.

Get an international phone plan

Ask your mobile service provider if they offer international phone plans to avoid extreme roaming charges. Many providers offer plans that you can purchase for the duration of your travels to keep you connected without incurring charges on your phone bill.

Check your gear

That suitcase you’ve had for years might not have much life left in it. Don’t get stuck at the gate with a suitcase that blows a seam or whose handle won’t collapse. If your luggage is looking extra rough around the edges, it might be time to replace it. CAA Stores can help you pack for the journey. Visit your nearest store for luggage and more. CAA Members save up to 20%!*

Secure your travel essentials

Browse through CAA Travel's variety of travel accessories, and consider a TSA-approved lock to keep your bags safe when passing through the airports at your departure point or final destination.

Don’t forget your furry family members

Secure a kennel or private pet-sitting services, or recruit a family member, friend, or close neighbour to look after your pets while you are away.

Don’t lose power when it matters most

Make sure you pack charging cables and/or battery packs for any electronics that you’re packing to avoid getting caught with a low battery at a picture-perfect moment.

Stand out from the pack

Save time at the baggage carousel looking through the seemingly endless string of black, navy and grey suitcases that all look the same. Get a colourful luggage strap or luggage tag to make your bag easy to spot!

Make your reservations before leaving home

Want to partake in an exciting excursion, have a special dinner at your favourite restaurant, or secure your pass to an attraction or activity? Where possible, make your reservations ahead of your departure so you won’t have to deal with lines, full bookings, or limited or no availability.

Download Pre-Travel Checklist