10 tips for a successful family road trip in Canada
Canada is a vast country that holds many surprises with its natural diversity and cultural richness. Its quiet roads and picturesque landscapes promise great adventures. There is no shortage of road trip routes to explore all the wonderful places that everyone talks about. But before hitting the road, read these few tips first.
1. Plan the trip with the help of a professional
Going on a road trip is an experience like no other, provided it is well planned. Therefore, to enjoy a unique trip to Canada, seek the help of a professional. Their knowledge of the country and expertise in the travel industry will assist you in better preparing for your journey.
The travel professional assists you in creating a customized itinerary based on your expectations, the length of your stay, and your budget.
They handle the organization and smooth running of your trip.
They take care of all the tedious tasks such as flight reservations and vehicle rental search, allowing you to fully enjoy your car ride.
2. Establish the itinerary well before departure
Canada offers so many vast spaces that you will not be able to explore everything. Therefore, you need to choose an itinerary that corresponds to the length of your stay. To fully enjoy your family vacation, include some activities in your program:
Photographing animals in the most beautiful parks such as Banff, Jasper, or Bic;
Visiting natural sites such as Emerald Lake, the Thousand Islands, Niagara Falls;
Observing whales, seeing the Northern Lights, going on a dog sled ride, etc.
3. Leave at the right time
The ideal time for a road trip in Canada is during the Indian summer, between September and October. This is also the best time to visit animals in parks. The weather is mild, the sun is shining, and the temperature is pleasant. The trees along the roads take on fiery colors.
4. Enjoy a rich and flavorful cuisine
Canada is not only famous for its fauna and picturesque natural phenomena. The cuisine is also interesting, especially in French-speaking cities like Montreal. Here are some dishes that you must absolutely try:
- Poutine,
- Baked beans,
- Beaver tail,
- Quebec-style meat pie,
- Pig's feet stew.
5. Stay flexible
The beauty of a road trip lies in being the master of your own journey, time, itinerary, and program. Therefore, if something changes along the way, take it in stride:
You have to stop because the kids need to stretch their legs;
You leave a place earlier than planned because you've seen everything;
You sleep in another city further away because the available accommodation is not suitable for your family.
6. Choose a suitable vehicle
Choose a suitable vehicle
To avoid last-minute problems, entrust the search and booking of a vehicle to a travel professional. They will find the model suitable for your family and the route you will be taking. They know rental agencies that can provide reliable and well-maintained cars.
7. Take appropriate safety measures
Take appropriate safety measures
Firstly, you must always be cautious on the road and follow local driving rules. Secondly, you need to take some precautions to ensure the comfort and safety of your family.
Use conforming seats (harness, booster, carrycot...) and an appropriate attachment system.
Everyone should eat well before hitting the road to avoid vomiting and discomfort.
Bring some snacks, favoring drinks to be consumed with straws and less messy foods like dry cake.
If there are prescribed medications for one or more of you, bring them and keep them within reach.
8. Be in compliance with the administration
Be in compliance with the administration
You must have the required documents for your stay in Canada:
Individual passport (including for minors) which is valid for at least one day beyond the end of your intended stay in Canada.
The Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which serves as a visa for citizens of the European Union.
9. Managing your budget well
Unforeseen events can always spoil your vacation. To cope with them financially, you need to take out travel insurance. But you also need to know how to manage your budget. Here are some tips:
Consult a travel advisor to find out about all the expenses to expect.
Set aside a sum of money to cover unforeseen expenses. If your trip comes to an end and there is money left over, use it to treat yourself to some souvenirs from your trip.
10. Pack your suitcase
Pack your suitcase
The clothes you need to pack depend on the season and weather. However, this part of North America is known for its cold temperatures, even during the summer. Therefore, you should pack some warm clothes and accessories (wool sweater, windbreaker, boots...) in your suitcase.
These are some tips to help you prepare for your road trip in Canada. Now, all that's left is to start preparing, beginning with the most urgent and important tasks.