Our Travel Tips


Vacation like a pro with these tips from our travel experts!

Always try to travel light and pack only what you can carry.

If you are having difficulty lifting your suitcase then you have probably packed too much. A good rule of thumb is to take half of what you think you will need.

Carry the minimum amount of valuables necessary for your trip and plan safe places to conceal them.

Your passport, cash and credit cards are most secure when locked in your hotel safe. When you have to carry them on your person, you may wish to conceal them in several places rather than putting them all in one wallet or pouch. Avoid handbags, fanny packs and outside pockets – they are easy targets for pickpockets. Inside pockets and a sturdy shoulder bag with the strap worn across your chest are better. One of the safest places to carry valuables is in a pouch or money belt worn under your clothing.

Share your itinerary with family or friends before leaving home.

It is also a good idea to leave a copy of your itinerary with family or friends at home in case they need to contact you in an emergency.

Pack extra passport photos and passport photocopies in case your passport is stolen.

Pack a set of passport photos along with a photocopy of your passport information page to make replacement of your passport easier in the event it is lost or stolen.

Label and lock all your luggage to avoid anything being lost or stolen.

Put your name, address and telephone numbers inside and outside each piece of luggage, and wherever possible lock your luggage.

Consider obtaining a telephone calling card or purchase a local SIM card.

It is a convenient way of keeping in touch. If you have one, verify that you can use it from your overseas destination(s). If you have an unlocked cell phone you may wish to bring it along and purchase a local SIM card.

Pack snacks in your carry-on luggage in case there are none available for you otherwise.

Flights within North America almost never provide meals, so for these trips you may want to pack snacks in your carry-on luggage (in case you’re stuck in a long security line and run out of time to buy anything in the departure lounge). The food selection on the aircraft is limited and they may not sell anything you find suitable to eat.

Keep any medication in their original labeled container and bring copies of your prescriptions.

If a medication is unusual or contains narcotics you should bring a letter from your doctor attesting to your need to take the drug. If you have any doubt about the legality of carrying a certain drug into a country, consult the embassy or consulate of that country first.

Make sure that all your essentials are in your carry on luggage.

Never check any of the following: your toothbrush, prescription medications, your deodorant, your pj’s.

And, most importantly, get plenty of rest the day/night before your departure.

What to Leave Behind

Unnecessary Cards

Unnecessary credit cards, Social Insurance cards, loyalty cards and similar items you may routinely carry in your wallet.

Valuable Jewellery

Valuable or expensive-looking jewellery, or anything that you would hate to lose.

Family Heirlooms

Irreplaceable family objects and heirloooms should always be left behind.

Before Leaving Home

Research Your Destination

There is an abundance of information on the internet. Researching the destination you will be visiting can prepare you for what you are going to see, reduce culture shock and maximize your experience.

Important Information

Vacations are all about enjoyment, and, the last thing you want to worry about is your credit cards. We advise that you bring one debit card and one credit card only. Write the card numbers on a piece of paper and place it somewhere in your luggage for safe keeping in the event your wallet or purse is lost or stolen.

Have Your Affairs in Order

Anything can happen when you are away so it pays to have your affairs in order (wills, insurance, power of attorney, designated representative) before your travel.

Have Proper Insurance

An accident, illness of medical emergency can happen anywhere, anytime. If you aren’t properly insured it will not only ruin your vacation it can also decimate your finances so don’t leave home without out-of-country coverage! Take the time to familiarize yourself with the inclusions of your policy and bring the contact information with you.

Warm Weather Tips

  • If you are prone to sunburn you should apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outdoors.

  • If you are going to a tropical destination you may want to consider wearing lightweight, long-sleeved garb and a hat.

  • Drink lots of water and keep yourself hydrated.

  • Limit your alcohol and caffeine intake as both are a source of dehydration.

In-Flight Tips

  • Try not to sit with your legs crossed as this is not good for your circulation.

  • Do not stay seated for the entire flight. Get up and walk around every few hours.

  • Drink plenty of water.

  • Limit your alcohol and caffeinated beverage intake.

  • Consider bringing an inflatable pillow, slippers and eye mask.