Travel Checklists

Learn a few basic phrases in the local language. A little goes a long way. Like, “Where is the…?”

Take a business card from the front desk of your hotel when you arrive. It can be helpful to have on hand the name and address of your lodgings in the local language!

Be Patient. Plan ahead for unexpected delays and try not to get upset when things inevitably go wrong.

Be mindful of the local culture of the country that you’re travelling in. Depending on your destination, cultural tolerances will vary.

Disable international data roaming to avoid a hefty phone bill upon your return.

Do not pet any stray animals you encounter, though they may look adorable.

Contact your Travel Insurance provider immediately if an emergency occurs. TD Insurance Travel Insurance customers can call 1-833-962-1140 from Canada or the U.S., or +1-(519) 988-7629 collect from anywhere else.

Be wary of provincial legislation that may limit how long you can travel out of province while still maintaining provincial health insurance.

Attend to your household needs. Put a hold on any newspaper subscriptions or mail deliveries, and prepay your bills.

Automatic timers can be used to switch lights on and off, giving the impression that you are at home.

Try not to post your whereabouts on Social Media if you're taking an extended vacation.

If you plan on taking a cell phone with you, make sure that your mobile connection and data will work abroad.

Don't forget your Travel Insurance! International hospital stays can be expensive, even for minor ailments.

Make sure you get a checkup done before you depart - if your health changes in any way prior to your departure, be sure to let your insurance provider know.

Most travel insurance policies have a pre-existing condition period exclusion. Make sure that you read and understand this exclusion as it could vary from policy to policy.

Do the currency calculations before you go - whether it’s on flights out of US airports, car rentals when you land, or lodging.

Consider a Canadian-based U.S. dollar bank account so you can buy US dollars when currency levels are favourable, and keep them in your account for easy access when they’re not.

Instead of booking a traditional hotel, look for something that offers a kitchen and prepare meals whenever possible to save money on dining out costs.

Try public transportation or bike share systems if available to save on transportation costs.

Look for a lower fee solution instead of a traditional wire transfer when transferring money to the US. TD offers Visa Direct, an easy way to move money online directly from your bank account.