The Canadian government just issued travel advice for anyone travelling abroad this winter

Take notes, travellers! With a busy travel season ahead, the Government of Canada has shared some important advice for Canadians heading to sunny beaches or chilly destinations this winter.

Before you pack your bags, be sure to take extra precautions—ignoring these recommendations could lead to major headaches, like being denied entry to your destination or finding yourself stranded without key documents.

First things first: travel insurance. It's not just a smart move—it's a must. If you get sick or injured abroad, medical bills can be outrageously expensive, and some hospitals may even refuse treatment without proof of insurance or a hefty upfront payment. The Government of Canada strongly advises getting coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and more.

Before you take off, double-check that your policy includes medical evacuations, pre-existing conditions, and repatriation in case of death.

Also, remember that if you're travelling to a destination under a Government of Canada advisory to "avoid all travel" or "avoid non-essential travel," your insurance may no longer be valid.

Before you take off, make sure your travel documents are good to go. Your Canadian passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your return date, as some countries won't let you in otherwise. This little-known rule has caught many travellers off guard and can end your vacation before it even starts.

Depending on where you're headed, you might also need a visa, proof of vaccinations, or extra paperwork. Don't leave this until the last minute to sort out—some documents take weeks to process, and waiting too long could mean delaying or cancelling your trip.

The Government of Canada also recommends keeping photocopies or digital backups of all essential documents and leaving copies with a trusted person back home, just in case. You can check international entry and exit requirements online before you travel.

Last but not least, stay up to date on the latest travel advisories for your destination. These government advisories provide critical info about local safety, health concerns, and even cultural norms. You can also register your trip with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to ensure you'll get updates and assistance if something goes wrong while you're away.

With a little planning, you can travel smarter and avoid unnecessary vacation stress this winter. So, double-check your documents, lock in your insurance, and bookmark those government advisories. Bon voyage!

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.

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