Canadian Snowbird Association - Travel Tips for Canadians

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THE CSA TRAVELLERS' CHECKLIST
Travel Tips for Canadians
HEALTH

HEALTH CARE PREPARATION

Medical Checkups

	The CSA recommends that members get an annual flu shot whether they travel or not.
	Visit your dentist for your routine checkup at least 90 days prior to travelling.
	Visit your doctor for your routine checkup at least 90 days prior to travelling.
		Speak to your doctor about wearing support stockings to help circulation and prevent blood clots if driving for extended periods or flying.
	Visit your optometrist and, if you wear eyewear, ensure your prescription is current.

Medical Precautions

	Obtain a MedicAlert^TM bracelet if you have allergies or other medical conditions. The MedicAlert^TM bracelet is recognized worldwide by medical practitioners as a reliable source that indicates pre-existing medical conditions.
	Renew your provincial or territorial health card if it is due to expire while you are away.

Medication & Prescriptions

	Carry a copy of your eyewear prescription (if applicable) in the event your eyewear is lost or damaged and you need to purchase a replacement while away.
	Carry a doctor's note outlining your daily prescription and over-the-counter medication to provide to border officials, if requested.
	Never consolidate multiple bottles of prescription medication into one large container to save space. It is important that proper pharmacy labels are affixed to all prescription medication containers.
	Travel with sufficient quantities of your usual medication and prescriptions – they may not be readily available at your destination.
		Remember that U.S. Customs limits transportation of over-the-counter medications that contain controlled substances, such as codeine, to 50 dosage units.
	Write a list of your medications, their amount, and their schedule to carry with you in case of emergency.
	Write a list of your significant medical conditions and/or allergies to carry with you in case of emergency.

TRAVEL MEDICAL INSURANCE

Travel Medical Insurance

	Notify your insurance company if your health, medication, or dosage changes – you MUST notify your insurance company prior to travelling to ensure your coverage is still valid.
	Notify your travel insurance provider of your travel dates when your plans are finalized, and ensure your policy is paid in full before you leave.
	Purchase travel medical insurance before you leave your home province or territory – provincial government health plans provide minimal coverage when travelling outside Canada and there are several benefit restrictions, even when travelling within Canada.
	Read your entire insurance policy and pay special attention to any limitations of coverage or exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions – if you do not understand something, ask!

Travel Medical Insurance Tips

	Departing prior to your birthday can result in savings – you may be placed in a lower price category, because travel insurance rates are based on your age at departure.
	Purchasing your insurance from insurance companies that have early bird offers – usually during the months of July and early August – can result in substantial savings.
		The CSA endorses the travel medical insurance products provided by Medipac International. Further information can be obtained by calling 1-888-MEDIPAC (1-888-633-4722).

HEALTH CARE AND YOUR PET

Immunization & Checkups

	Carry proof of immunization if travelling with your pet.
	Discuss microchip identification of your pet with your veterinarian prior to leaving.
	Immunize your pet for the duration of your vacation.
	Visit your veterinarian for a checkup of your pet.

Travel & Pets

	Carry proof of licensing (if applicable) and immunization.
	Check the entry regulations of all countries you intend to visit and ensure that your pet will meet these regulations. Many countries, especially outside North America, have onerous restrictions on admitting pets and some will quarantine your pet for extended periods of time.
	Never leave your pet in a closed vehicle.
	Take sufficient food, water and any medication required for your pet, but be aware of any restrictions when crossing borders. In 2004, a general ban existed on Canadian beef products, which included Canadian manufactured pet food that contained beef or beef by-products.