What to Check Before a Trip: 7 Essential Steps

Person preparing for a trip, using a tablet with a map underneath it and travel documents spread out on a bed in a bright bedroom.

Before heading off on a trip, a few simple checks can make all the difference. They can help you avoid stressful situations like denied boarding, missing documents, unexpected medical expenses or complications at your destination. 

 

An expiring passport overlooked entry requirements or inadequate insurance are among the most common travel mistakes. 

 

To travel with confidence, here are 7 essential checks to complete before you leave. This practical checklist will guide your preparation for your departure and help you avoid the oversights that often disrupt a trip. 

1. Review government travel advisories before you leave

Before booking a trip, and again as your departure date approaches, take a moment to consult the Government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories. 

 

This official resource helps Canadian travellers understand safety conditions at their destination and make informed decisions. 

 

For each country, you’ll find key information such as: 

  • The overall risk level
  • Areas to avoid
  • Current restrictions or requirements
  • Special health considerations

Because conditions can change quickly, it’s a good idea to check for updates again a few days before you leave.   

 

Understanding risk levels 

 

The Government of Canada classifies destinations into four levels of risk. 

 

🟩Take normal safety precautions 
Conditions are similar to Canada. Standard precautions apply. 

 

🟨Exercise a high degree of caution 
Some safety concerns exist Stay alert and follow local news and guidance. 

 

🟧Avoid non-essential travel 
Your safety could be at risk. Consider whether your trip is necessary. 

 

🟥Avoid all travel 
There is a high risk to your safety. Travel is strongly discouraged.   

 

For more details, visit the Travel Advice and Advisories – Frequently Asked Questions page. 

 

💡Good to know: In certain situations, government advisories may affect access to care or coverage for some emergency expenses. Make sure your travel insurance is appropriate for your destination. 

 

 

Register with the Government of Canada before you go  

 

Before you leave, consider registering with the Registry of Canadians Abroad. 

 

This free Government of Canada service allows you to: 

 

  • Be contacted in case of an emergency
  • Receive important updates about your destination

2. Check entry requirements for your destination

Every country has its own entry rules. Depending on where you’re travelling, you may need to present specific documents upon arrival. 

 

These may include: 

  • A valid passport for a minimum period
  • An electronic visa or travel authorization (eTA, ESTA, etc.)
  • Proof of return or onward ticket
  • Health documents, such as proof of vaccination

Common mistake: Learning about these requirements at the airport. 

 

Airlines enforce entry rules at check-in and may deny boarding if your documents are non-compliant. 

 

💡 Good to know: Entry requirements may change at any time. Be sure to check them when planning your trip and confirm them again before you leave. 

3. Confirm your passport is valid

Your passport is essential for international travel, but many destinations require it to remain valid for a certain period beyond the end of your stay. 

 

 

Passport validity rules: What you need to know  

 

A few countries require your passport to remain valid well beyond the end of your stay, sometimes up to six months after your planned return date.  

 

The Government of Canada reminds travellers that each destination sets its own entry and exit requirements. If your passport doesn’t meet those rules, you could be denied boarding or refused entry, even for a short trip.1

 

Before you leave, take a few minutes to check:

  • Your passport’s expiry date
  • The minimum validity required for your destination
  • The number of blank pages available

Some countries require at least one blank page for entry stamps or visas. 

 

💡 Good to know: Airlines verify these requirements at check-in. 

4. Plan health-related steps in advance

Depending on your destination and personal situation, some health measures need to be planned several weeks before you travel. 

 

For example: 

  • Some vaccines must be administered ahead of time.
  • Proof of vaccination may be required upon entry.
  • Certain medications may be restricted or prohibited in some countries.

Planning ahead helps you avoid last-minute complications. 

 

 

Prepare a travel health kit  

 

It’s a good idea to pack a small travel health kit with: 

  • Your prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter medications
  • Essentials for common travel issues, such as pain, allergies, digestive discomfort, etc.

These can help you manage minor issues during your stay.  

5. Understanding access to healthcare at your destination

Healthcare systems abroad can work very differently from what we’re used to in Canada. 

 

In some countries: 

  • Medical services must be paid for upfront
  • Hospitals may require a financial guarantee before providing care

Knowing what to expect can help you avoid stressful situations if an emergency arises. 

 

You can also contact the Blue Cross team to:

  • Check availability of healthcare providers at your destination
  • Identify local resources, such as embassies or consulates

Blue Cross tip: Make sure the 24/7 Blue Cross Travel Assistance number is saved in your phone and written down in case you need it.

6. Check your travel insurance

Before you go, make sure your travel insurance matches your plans. 

 

Confirm that:  

  • Your contract covers the entire duration of your trip
  • All travellers in your family or group are included
  • Your planned activities are eligible
  • Coverage includes medical care, baggage and trip interruption
  • Any required pre-existing medical conditions are declared

Blue Cross tip: Review your coverage details in your Customer Space before departure. 

 

 

Travel insurance within Canada: why it matters 

 

When we think about travel insurance, we often picture trips abroad. But it can be just as important when travelling within Canada, whether you’re visiting from another province or coming from outside the country. 

 

The reality is your healthcare coverage doesn’t always fully apply when you’re away from your usual place of residence. You could end up paying out of pocket for certain expenses, such as ambulance transportation, emergency repatriation, prescription medications or out-of-network care. 

 

That’s where travel insurance can help. 

 

At Blue Cross, travel insurance can be adapted to your type of trip. It also includes 24/7 travel assistance and Flight Delay Service at no additional cost, so you’re supported every step of the way if something unexpected happens. 

 

Find coverage that’s right for you: Customizable Travel Insurance | Québec Blue Cross 

7. Prepare your essential documents

Before you go, make sure you keep copies of important documents. 

 

Keep: 

  • Digital and printed copies of key documents
  • Emergency contact information
  • Booking confirmations and tickets
  • Important phone numbers, including 24/7 Blue Cross Travel Assistance

Things to remember before you go

Quick checklist 

 

Before you leave, make sure: 

  • Your passport meets validity requirements
  • Your entry documents are complete
  • Your insurance covers all travellers for the full duration of the trip
  • Emergency contact information is easy to access
  • Copies of your documents are saved
  • You’ve completed your registration with the Government of Canada
  • Your flight is registered with our Flight Delay Service

 

Good preparation is key to a smooth trip.  

By following this checklist, you can make sure your documents, health requirements and insurance are all in order for your destination. 

 

A few minutes of preparation before you leave can help you travel safely and stay organized, wherever you’re headed.