Solo Trip to Canada: Everything You Need to Know
Solo travel to Canada makes for a great adventure: the journey is not only about visiting Canada – it is also about getting to know yourself better.
Canada is the second world’s largest country and a land of unparalleled natural wonders waiting to be explored by those not afraid of traveling on their own.
Whether you look for the serenity of the wilderness or the vibrant pulse of a big city, Canada has something for every traveler, and a solo journey just adds a unique allure to that experience.
Check the information, inspiration, and practical advice on traveling unaccompanied. It’s time to start packing your bags, wake up your inner explorer, and prepare for an unforgettable solo trip to Canada!
Best travel season
While each person has their own preferences, certain periods are considered the best for exploring Canada – mid-April to June and September to early November.
In spring, traveling is more affordable. Visitors can enjoy sea-level hiking trails, particularly in British Colombia and Nova Scotia, which have mild temperatures.
Stay in Canada during the autumn months will be quieter. It is the perfect time to visit national parks with their orange, yellow, and brown leaves. You would also like to see the Atlantic coast, known for its majestic autumn views.
Entry requirements
Depending on your nationality, you may need to obtain a visa or ETA to Canada. Check the list of eligible countries to know what document you require.
You can apply for an ETA Canada in a simple and speedy way, as the application procedure is entirely online. All you need to have is a device connected to the internet, a recent face photo, and online payment means.
To get an ETA for Canada, fill out a short form on https://visafly.com, attach the necessary documents, pay the fees, and check the email address. The approved ETA will arrive directly in the inbox.
Transport
For safety reasons, use public transport instead of hitchhiking with strangers. In most big Canadian cities, public transportation is highly developed. Travelers can choose between buses, trains, subways, domestic flights, or rental cars.
Traveling around Canada (the second largest country in the world) may seem like a challenge, but with a developed transport system, this country has become very accessible. It is recommended that you plan your itinerary beforehand and do research on which means of transport will be the most convenient for your travel route.
Spoken languages
Some people may be nervous when traveling on their own to foreign countries without speaking the local language. However, that is not the case with Canada – it is a bilingual country where both English and French are the official languages.
English is more common and familiar to most international travelers, so you likely will have no language barrier, while French can also be helpful in some areas. It would be nice to learn some of the most-used phrases in French, even though locals can answer you in English in the French-speaking provinces.
Currency
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Canada. Some retailers even accept the US dollar as a form of payment for goods. That said, it is always best to have some cash in hand – the currency of Canada is the Canadian dollar (CAD).
To get CAD, attend a bank or a dedicated foreign exchange office. Try not to exchange cash at the airport since you will find a better rate in other places.
The most straightforward way to obtain CAD is by making an ATM withdrawal upon arrival. There are several ATMs at Canadian airports offering a true rate, but consider that there are also ATM withdrawal fees.
Health insurance
Canada does not pay for medical services for citizens of other countries, therefore, Canadian healthcare may be expensive for foreign visitors. If you get hurt or become ill during your trip, you will have to pay medical bills, which are often very costly. Sometimes, hospitals even require upfront payment.
For that reason, we advise you to get travel health insurance that will cover possible medical expenses. Look up flexible and affordable travel medical insurance options to ensure a safe trip to Canada.
Best places to visit
Traveling on your own can often allow you to enjoy a trip more, as you are able to choose the itinerary, attractions, and activities according to your preferences and do not depend on other people.
For instance, if you’re a city lover, you should consider visiting big cities like Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, or Edmonton. Those looking for picturesque sceneries can find them on the Icefields Parkway in Alberta – it is beautiful and not particularly long, so it is an excellent spot for solo travelers.
As much as Niagara Falls is a popular place for newlyweds, solo travelers shouldn’t miss it either since it is one of the most magnificent natural wonders of the world.
The Rocky Mountains offer various activities, from hiking and camping to fishing and horseback riding. They are safe for singles, as it is patrolled by rangers, and there are always many other visitors around.
Emergency numbers
While we all hope for our journeys to be problem-free, you must always be prepared for unexpected situations. Not only will you feel more secure, but it can actually save your life if a threat does occur. Check the emergency numbers in Canada – for example, the number 911 will be useful in need of police, fire, and medical assistance.
It is also a good idea to set up an emergency contact feature on your phone. When you have it, you do not need to make a call but just fast-press your power button 3 times – the feature will do the rest.
You are able to choose up to 3 mobile numbers – e.g., of your relatives, friends, or significant others. It is especially important when you travel alone and do not have other acquaintances or friends around.