Travel advisories Canadians should know ahead of summer travel

If you’re planning a trip from Canada this summer, it’s worth checking the federal government’s travel advisories, as they can give you an idea of what to expect.

The Government of Canada regularly updates its travel advisories for different countries, giving tourists advice on possible safety risks, as well as immigration rules that they should be aware of. As Canadians prepare for summer travel, it’s important to check the risk levels at your layover or destination, as it could affect your travel plans.

“The Government of Canada’s official source of travel information and advice, the Travel Advice and Advisories help you to make informed decisions and travel safely while you are outside Canada,” states the government. “Check the page for your destination often, because safety and security conditions may change.”

Travel advisories are updated based on the security and health situation in a country or region, and whether it can pose a significant threat to Canadians travelling or living there. Issues could include the threat of terrorism, civil unrest, war, rebellion, a natural disaster, political instability, or a health emergency.

The government assesses risks in over 230 destinations worldwide, and risk levels are updated depending on the situation. Countries are assigned one of four risk levels: take normal security precautions, exercise a high degree of caution, avoid non-essential travel, and avoid all travel.

Here’s a look at how destinations are classified by risk level.

Avoid all travel

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Canadians are advised not to travel to these countries, territories, or regions. And travellers who are already there are advised to leave if it’s safe to do so.

Avoid non-essential travel

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Your safety could be at risk, so it’s a good idea to consider whether you really need to travel to any of the following destinations. Travellers should think about family or business requirements, and how familiar they are with the region. Canadians in these regions who don’t need to be there should consider leaving.

Exercise a high degree of caution

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A lot of popular destinations fall under this risk level, and Canadians travelling to these regions should be aware that the situation could change quickly.

“Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities,” states the Government’s website.

Take normal security precautions

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When travelling to these destinations, the government advises taking similar precautions as you would in Canada.

Also, before travelling internationally, sign up for the Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA), a free and confidential service that notifies Canadian citizens outside the country of an emergency abroad or at home.

“The decision to travel is yours alone,” states the government. “Following the Government of Canada’s official travel advice will enable you to make well-informed decisions for your personal safety and security.”

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