Things To Avoid In Canada: 11 Don’ts For A Great Trip

When visiting Canada, don’t underestimate its vast size, ignore local customs, or forget proper documentation. Respect wildlife safety rules, Indigenous protocols, and environmental regulations. Always tip appropriately (15-20% at restaurants) and purchase extensive health insurance with at least $100,000 in medical coverage. Avoid loud behavior in public, pack for unpredictable weather, and create transportation backup plans. These essential guidelines will ensure your Canadian adventure stays memorable for all the right reasons.

Good To Know

• Don’t underestimate travel distances between major Canadian cities, which can span thousands of kilometers requiring careful planning.
• Avoid relying solely on public transportation in rural areas where services may be limited or nonexistent.
• Never feed wildlife, keep pets leashed, and maintain safe distances from animals like bears and moose.
• Don’t travel without comprehensive health insurance covering medical expenses and emergency evacuation.
• Avoid improper tipping; follow the standard 15-20% at restaurants and appropriate amounts for other services.

Things To Avoid In Canada: 11 Don’ts For A Great Trip

When planning your Canadian adventure, being aware of common tourist pitfalls can transform your experience from frustrating to fantastic.

Don’t assume Canada is just like the US—it has its own currency, customs, and cultural norms. Make certain you have the right visa or eTA before arrival. Budget carefully for higher costs in cities, and book accommodations early to avoid premium prices.

Canada is its own distinct nation with unique currency and customs—prepare proper documentation and budget accordingly.

Never underestimate Canadian weather; pack for sudden changes and extreme conditions. Respect wildlife by following safety protocols, especially in bear country.

Pre-purchase a Parks Canada Discovery Pass if you’re visiting multiple national parks.

Remember that Canada celebrates multiculturalism—learn about indigenous heritage and local holidays. Despite its reputation for friendliness, travel with normal safety precautions just as you would in any destination. Be prepared for travel between destinations as many travelers are shocked by the vast distances between major cities like Toronto and Thunder Bay. Stay informed about regional events and regulations to maximize your experience while respecting this diverse country’s environment and people.

Underestimating Canada’s Vast Size and Travel Distances

Many travelers make the critical mistake of underestimating Canada’s immense scale, often comparing it to their home countries with disastrous results for their itineraries. As the world’s second-largest country spanning 9.98 million square kilometers, Canada’s major cities are separated by thousands of kilometers.

Don’t assume you can easily drive between Toronto and Vancouver in a day—it’s a 4,400 km journey requiring over 30 hours of continuous driving. The longest east-west distance spans 5,514 km from Cape Spear in Newfoundland to the Yukon/Alaska border. Plan realistically for travel between destinations, especially in northern regions where services are limited and weather conditions can change rapidly.

Similar to planning for Maui’s sunrise viewing spots, effective time management is essential when mapping out your Canadian adventure. Remember that public transit is sparse outside urban areas, and seasonal roads may be impassable at certain times. Always build flexibility into your schedule and consider regional flights for covering substantial distances efficiently.

Ignoring Local Customs and Canadian Etiquette

Visitors who disregard Canadian social norms often find themselves unknowingly causing offense or creating uncomfortable situations. Canadians value politeness, personal space, and cultural sensitivity in daily interactions.

To navigate Canadian etiquette successfully:

1. Respect personal boundaries by maintaining comfortable distance during conversations and avoiding personal questions about salary or relationship status.
2. Practice punctuality—being more than 15 minutes late without notice is considered disrespectful and poor manners.
3. Keep emotions measured in public settings—loud outbursts, excessive PDAs, or displays of anger are generally viewed as inappropriate.
4. Use culturally sensitive language, particularly when referring to Indigenous peoples, and never confuse Canadians with Americans.

When making a social mistake, it’s best to proactively apologize as Canadians typically respond with forgiveness to sincere acknowledgments of error.

Remember that Canadians appreciate calm, considerate behavior and subtle expressions rather than ostentatious or invasive interactions.

Unlike Indiana where awareness of dangerous wildlife is essential for outdoor safety, Canada’s social landscape requires navigating human interactions with equal caution and respect.

Forgetting Required Travel Documentation and Border Procedures

Travelers crossing into Canada frequently encounter unexpected complications due to inadequate preparation with essential documentation and border procedures. Always submit your advance declarations through ArriveCAN before arrival, as failure to declare goods can result in penalties.

Many travelers face delays at Canadian borders due to improper documentation. Submit declarations via ArriveCAN to avoid penalties.

Carry proper identification—Canadians need a valid passport when traveling abroad. For non-Canadians, ensure you have appropriate visas and documents valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

Check updated border crossing hours, especially with changes coming January 2025 at 35 land crossings. Be aware of goods restrictions and personal exemptions for items like alcohol and tobacco. Be prepared for possible digital device examinations at any port of entry. While Cuba boasts fascinating spider species, Canada enforces strict regulations on bringing any exotic wildlife across its borders without proper permits.

If you’re planning a U.S. stay of 30+ days, don’t forget to register with U.S. Immigration Services, as this requirement applies retroactively.

Disregarding Wildlife Safety Rules in Natural Areas

Canada’s stunning wilderness areas demand respect beyond just having proper documentation. Wildlife safety rules aren’t mere suggestions—they’re essential protections for both animals and visitors. Disregarding these regulations can lead to dangerous encounters, ecological damage, and significant fines.

When exploring Canada’s natural areas, always:

1. Keep wildlife wild by never feeding animals, which causes dependency and aggressive behavior.
2. Leash your pets to prevent them from chasing wildlife and potentially triggering defensive attacks.
3. Maintain proper distance from all animals, especially bears, moose, and other large mammals.
4. Leave natural objects where you find them—no collecting plants, antlers, fossils, or other items.

Similar to Hawaii’s snorkeling etiquette, Canada’s natural areas require visitors to follow specific protocols to preserve delicate ecosystems.

Remember that in national parks, you’re a visitor in these animals’ homes. Respect their space and natural behaviors. It’s also prohibited to disturb or destroy nests, dens, or dams of wildlife, as these are essential for their survival and ecosystem balance.

Assuming Public Transportation Works Everywhere

While urban centers like Toronto and Vancouver boast extensive transit networks, assuming public transportation works everywhere in Canada is a mistake that can derail your travel plans.

The reality reveals a stark urban-rural divide in transit accessibility.

Rural areas often have limited or no public transit options, making a personal vehicle essential.

Even between major cities, services may be infrequent or nonexistent due to Canada’s vast wilderness and long distances.

Before your trip, research your specific destinations’ transportation options.

Don’t assume buses or trains will be available, especially if you’re exploring smaller towns or natural attractions.

Many travelers find themselves stranded or forced into expensive last-minute car rentals after discovering too late that reliable public transit isn’t available in their area.

To avoid this common pitfall, consider creating a transportation backup plan when visiting areas outside major metropolitan regions.

Urban transit systems have shown significant recovery with September 2024 reaching post-pandemic high ridership levels, but this improvement is primarily concentrated in metropolitan areas.

Not Preparing for Extreme and Rapidly Changing Weather

Underestimating Canada’s mercurial weather can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare of unexpected challenges. From powerful EF4 tornadoes in Alberta to increasingly frequent heat waves and urban flooding in major cities, Canada’s climate demands respect and preparation.

Consider these essential weather realities when visiting:

Canada’s unpredictable climate demands advance planning and respect for regional weather patterns to ensure traveler safety.

1. Regional differences are dramatic – coastal Halifax faces storm surges while mountainous regions like Alberta experience rapid weather shifts within hours.
2. Nine of Canada’s ten warmest years occurred in the last 25 years, making heat preparation vital.
3. Transportation disruptions from weather are common, affecting flights, trains, and road travel.
4. Emergency supplies and weather-appropriate clothing aren’t optional – they’re necessities for safety.

Recent catastrophes like the Calgary hailstorm that caused $2.8 billion in damages demonstrate the unpredictable severity of Canadian weather events.

If you’re seeking milder conditions, research warmest Canadian cities like those in southern regions that offer more temperate climates.

Always check local forecasts and maintain flexibility in your itinerary.

Overlooking Indigenous Cultures and Protocols

Just as important as respecting Canada’s unpredictable weather is honoring its affluent Indigenous heritage.

When visiting sacred sites or attending ceremonies, research appropriate dress codes and always request permission before taking photographs. Some communities prohibit alcohol consumption due to historical trauma. When exploring remote Indigenous territories, be aware that certain wildlife encounters could occur, requiring appropriate safety knowledge and respect for both animal habitats and cultural lands.

Acknowledge the traditional territories you’re visiting and avoid reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Show special respect to Elders and never touch sacred objects without explicit permission.

Some areas may be restricted for cultural or ecological reasons—these boundaries must be respected.

Support Indigenous-owned businesses and seek community-led tourism experiences that offer authentic cultural engagement. Visitors should look for tourism businesses that meet market ready standards to ensure they’re experiencing authentic and respectful cultural offerings.

Remember that many Indigenous nations are actively reviving cultural practices after decades of suppression. Taking time to understand historical context and current protocols demonstrates genuine respect for Canada’s First Peoples.

Skipping Proper Tipping in Restaurants and Services

When visiting Canada, neglecting proper tipping etiquette can lead to awkward situations and reflect poorly on you as a tourist. Canadians consider tipping an essential practice, with 77% believing it’s necessary in restaurants. Just as travelers should exercise caution in dangerous tourist spots, being aware of local tipping customs is essential for a respectful visit.

For a smooth experience, follow these tipping guidelines:

1. Tip 15-20% at full-service restaurants for standard service
2. Offer 10% for hair stylists and barbers, although women are more supportive of salon tipping than men.
3. Give food delivery drivers approximately 9% gratuity
4. Prefer cash tips when possible, as 47% of Canadians believe tips often go undeclared

Neglecting Recycling and Environmental Regulations

Environmental awareness isn’t just polite in Canada—it’s practically the law. The country takes its Zero Plastic Waste Agenda seriously, aiming to eliminate plastic pollution by 2030. Don’t be caught tossing recyclables into regular trash bins.

Most Canadian cities have extensive recycling programs with specific sorting requirements. You’ll notice separate bins for paper, plastic, glass, and compost in public spaces. When shopping, you’ll often need to bring your own bags or pay for plastic ones.

Businesses face strict reporting requirements through the Federal Plastics Registry, and greenwashing is prohibited. With only 16% of plastic packaging currently recycled, Canada is pushing hard to improve these numbers. Several provinces like Alberta have recently launched EPR programs for single-use products and packaging to address this challenge. Unlike popular surf destinations such as Hawaii and Bali, Canada’s environmental focus is on preservation rather than tourism-centered development.

Respecting these environmental practices won’t just help you blend in—it’s essential for preserving the country’s natural beauty.

Traveling Without Adequate Health Insurance Coverage

Leaving your home without adequate health insurance coverage could become one of your biggest regrets when traveling in Canada. Many visitors wrongly assume their existing insurance or Canada’s healthcare system will protect them, but this misconception can lead to significant financial hardship.

If you’re traveling in Canada, remember:

1. Provincial health plans only cover Canadians at reduced rates when they travel outside their home province.
2. Foreign visitors must pay all medical expenses out-of-pocket unless properly insured.
3. Medical evacuation from remote areas can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
4. Credit cards rarely provide extensive medical coverage.

Even for Canadians traveling domestically, there are significant variations in ambulance service costs between provinces, with BC charging $80 while Ontario charges $240.

Don’t take chances with your health or finances. Purchase travel insurance with at least $100,000 in medical coverage and $250,000 for emergency evacuation before your Canadian adventure.

The Sum Up

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll experience Canada as it’s meant to be enjoyed. The country’s breathtaking landscapes and welcoming culture await, but only for travelers who approach with respect and preparation. What unexpected memories might you create when you venture beyond tourist traps? Canada rewards those who travel wisely—and now, armed with these essential don’ts, you’re ready to discover its authentic treasures yourself.