We’ve compiled 10 tips to help you have the best possible Parks Canada experience. Put these planning and booking tips to action and figure out how to avoid the crowds, choose the best time to visit, and decide what destination is best for you.

1. Plan ahead

With over 220 destinations across Canada and an average of 20M+ visitors per year, planning ahead is key! Always make the necessary reservations ahead of time (camping, parking, shuttles) and check the status of trails and/or area closures before you go. Knowing what to expect, how to prepare, and what services are available will help ensure the best visit possible.

2. Reserve your spot

Level up your Parks Canada experience by staying the night in a tent or RV, or a furnished accommodation like a cabin, yurt or oTENTik. For the best experience possible check out our camping tips and tricks and reserve early because spots fill up fast.

3. Go somewhere new

Step out of your comfort zone! From lesser known national parks, to historic houses, forts, lighthouses, ranches and everything in between, explore by region to discover unique, off the beaten path travel destinations. Or consider less busy but equally exciting alternatives to the most popular national parks.

4. Travel midweek

Avoid the weekend rush, especially long weekends, during the busy summer season and travel during the week when the crowds are quieter. Take advantage of these quieter times to reconnect with nature and culture.

5. Explore early or late in the day

Be an early bird, literally! Birds are most active in the early morning, and the beautiful natural lighting makes for fabulous photos. Dusk is also another great time to explore. Many animals avoid the midday sun and can be seen travelling at dusk. Please remember to keep your distance and give all wildlife plenty of room to travel freely.

6. Be a night owl

Enjoy the celestial landscape in one of Parks Canada’s 13 Dark-Sky Preserves, a welcome escape from glaring city lights. Learn about stars, the moon, galaxies and constellations during special programming and events throughout the year. Stay overnight and camp under the stars to get the full experience.

7. Go on a special tour

Treat yourself to a unique experience and learn about Indigenous cultures, go stargazing, enjoy food and drink, visit a haunted location, learn how to fire a canon, take part in historic activities you would never have guessed you could do in a historic site, and so much more! Young or old, there is an activity just waiting for you to come explore.

8. Travel during the off-season

Watch the forest come to life after a long winter, behold the magic of changing leaves in the fall, or bundle up and explore a winter wonderland. There is so much to do in Parks Canada destinations. Not only are places quieter during these times, but you will also be able to book accommodations easier than during peak seasons!

9. Become an insider

Arm yourself with the best tools to help plan and enjoy your next Parks Canada vacation. Get seasonal updates by signing up to our Newsletter. Download the Parks Canada app to enjoy valuable travel tips, self-guided tours and more! Check out our vacation planners for top-notch ideas and endless inspiration, and don’t forget to follow us on social media to get the latest scoop.

10. Know what’s expected of you when you visit

Exploring protected areas is a privilege that comes with responsibilities. Limit your impact while ensuring your safety. Make sure you follow the 10 golden visitor rules, which include but are not limited to choosing activities that match your level of experience, respecting wildlife and leaving no trace.

Packing hacks are always fun to try out when you’re travelling. But we seldom see any tips and tricks for travelling with medication. There are a few rules you need to follow when you pack your meds but don’t fret, it’s not as daunting as it seems. With the proper preparation, you can have a fun adventure without compromising your health.

The rules for travelling with medication

Research destination-specific regulations

Different countries have varying rules regarding the importation of medication. Before your trip, research the specific regulations of your destination. Certain countries have restrictions on some medications, or in some cases, bans.

Check documentation requirements

Ensure you have the necessary documentation for your medication. This may include a prescription from your doctor, a note explaining the medical necessity of the medication, and translations if applicable.

Quantities allowed

During your research, make sure to double-check the country’s quantity allowances for your specific medication. Some nations have strict limits on the amount of medication permitted, and exceeding these limits can lead to legal is.

Carry a copy of the prescription

You should always carry a copy of your prescription or letter signed by your doctor, as this serves as proof of medical necessity. This can be crucial if you need to replace lost or stolen medication. If you carry an epi-pen, this is even more critical.

Research controlled substance regulations

If your medication is a controlled substance, research the specific regulations governing its transportation. Some countries may require additional permits or documentation for controlled substances.

Store hacks for medication while travelling

1. Carry medication in your carry-on bag: Always pack your medication in your carry-on bag. Checked luggage is more likely to be lost, delayed or out of reach, and having your medication easily accessible can be essential.
2. Use a pill organiser: Consider using a pill organiser to keep your medication organised. This not only ensures you take the correct dosage but also makes security checks more efficient. Pill organisers should be labelled so that medication can be differentiated and identified.
3. Keep high-schedule medication in original packaging: Store your medication in its original packaging, complete with labels. This helps customs officials identify the medication and confirms its legitimacy.
4. Protect medication from extreme temperatures: Medications are sensitive to temperature changes. Keep them in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures. Consider using a small cooler or insulated bag for temperature-sensitive medications.
5. Bring extra medication: Always carry extra medication in case of unexpected delays or changes in travel plans. It’s better to be over-prepared than to run out of medication in an unfamiliar location.

Tourism is a big boost to the economy and also introduces tourists to various cultures and people.

Packing for a vacation or a quick getaway to your favourite city, comes with a to-do list. Especially, when the city you are travelling to has a different climate. Therefore, it is important that you do your research on what works best when it comes to clothing and accessories.

With the boom in travel goals on social media, you can take inspiration from your favourite travel influencers and check out what they have been adorning on their respective travels. However, it is all about keeping it comfortable, sustainable, and eco-friendly. It’s time we put our planet first and be kind to the environment.

Here’s how you can spread happiness wherever you go, but in a sustainable and eco-friendly way:

SILHOUETTES: Sustainable and eco-friendly doesn’t mean it has to be boring. There are a lot of homegrown responsible fashion brands such as House of Fett, No Nasties, Antaratma, Hibiscus Heroes, The Summer House, to name a few working towards making sustainability a fashion statement. The silhouettes, patterns and colours are travel friendly. Pick from an array of co-ord sets, skater dresses, to comfortable swimwear to make your next trip a fashionable one.

FABRIC: It’s important that the fabric you pick for your travel fashion should be easy breezy and super comfortable. You don’t want to wear outfits where the fabric either leaves you with itchy skin or makes you sweat throughout the trip. Go for attires made from fabrics such as hemp, organic cotton, khadi, linen, to name a few. Also pick fabrics that are light in weight and do not add those extra kilos to your luggage.

BAG: Travelling also means carrying essentials while on the go. Sometimes your handbag cannot hold everything, so get a large bag made from eco-friendly fabrics. Go for upcycled, recycled and planet-friendly bags that are not just handy but also kind to the environment. Experiment with prints and colours derived from natural dyes.

ACCESSORY: Travel fashion goals are incomplete without the right accessories. Pick your favourite straw hat or a funky hair band to add to your stylish look. Sit back and relax on the beach with your favourite accessories keeping you company. For vacays in colder climates, opt for caps and scarves keeping in mind the city’s temperatures. Do not shop for accessories that are only stylish. Also pick function over fashion.

FOOTWEAR: Slip into footwear that’s your and nature’s friend. While picking footwear to wear during your travels, opt for shoes, sandals or regular slides that are comfortable. Never wear brand new shoes on trips because you don’t want to end up strolling the city with shoe bites. And last but not the least, air out your shoes after a long day’s walk. Go for footwear which are made from bamboo grass, vegan leather, etc.

Keeping your hair in top condition while travelling doesn’t have to be complicated. Check out these Top 10 essential tips for keeping your hair healthy while travelling.

Travelling is one of life’s great pleasures, but it can be a real challenge for your hair. Between the changes in climate, long flights, and different water qualities, your hair often gets the short end of the stick. The good news? With a little planning and a few clever tips, you can keep your hair looking vibrant and healthy while on the go. From travel-sized products to anti-frizz sprays, learn how to protect your hair and keep it looking its best, no matter where your journey takes you. In this guide, we share 10 simple yet effective ways to ensure your hair stays in top shape during your travels.

Top 10 Tips To Keep Hair Healthy While Travelling

1. Pack Travel-Sized Products

Instead of lugging around full-sized bottles, pack travel-sized versions of your favourite shampoo and conditioner. Not only do they save space, but you can also keep using the products you trust. Just make sure to choose sulphate-free options, they’re less likely to dry out your hair.

2. Use Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo can be a lifesaver when you’re travelling. It absorbs excess oil and adds some volume, so you can stretch out the time between washes. This is perfect for long flights or when you simply don’t have time for a full wash.

3. Protect Your Hair From Sun Damage

Sunshine is great, but it can be tough on your hair. A hat, cap, or scarf is a simple way to shield your hair from UV rays. If you’re going to be outside for a while, you can also apply a conditioning masque or wet your hair before heading out. This keeps it from drying out.

4. Shield from Pool And Saltwater

Chlorine and saltwater are not your hair’s best friends. To avoid damage, cover your hair with a swim cap or apply a bit of oil to it before taking a dip. After swimming, rinse your hair with clean water and use a gentle shampoo. This prevents chlorine or salt from lingering on your hair.

5. Use Serum Before Brushing

Brushing dry hair can cause breakage and split ends. To avoid this, apply a bit of serum before you brush. This adds a protective layer, reducing friction and helping your hair stay smooth and shiny.

6. Avoid Tight Hairstyles

Fancy hairstyles might look great, but they can be hard on your hair, especially while travelling. Instead, opt for simple styles that don’t involve tight braids or excessive heat styling. Getting a good haircut before you travel is another easy way to ensure your hair looks good without too much effort.

7. Wash Your Hair One Day Before Travelling

Washing your hair the day before you travel is a smart move. It gives your hair a chance to settle and prevents dirt and dust from sticking to freshly washed hair. Plus, it’s one less thing to worry about on your travel day.

8. Apply Oil For Nourishment

Hair oil is a great way to keep your hair nourished, especially in dry climates or during long flights. Applying oil to your roots and tips can help prevent frizz and keep your hair hydrated. This is a simple step with a big impact.

9. Watch Out For Water Quality

Water quality can vary from place to place. If you’re in an area with hard water, it can leave your hair feeling dry and rough. Consider bringing a water filter for the shower or using bottled water for the final rinse. This small adjustment can make a big difference.

10. Bring an Anti-Frizz Spray

Humidity and frizz tend to go hand in hand. To keep your hair sleek, pack an anti-frizz spray or serum. A quick spritz can tame flyaways and help your hair look its best, no matter how humid it gets.