Traveling from India is an exciting experience. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, here are some essential travel tips and insights explicitly tailored for Indian visitors.
1. Visa and Travel Documents
- USA: Ensure you have the appropriate visa (tourist, student, or business). Apply for your U.S. visa at least 2-3 months before, as appointment slots may be limited.
- Canada: Indian travelers sometimes require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Check eligibility and apply early.
- Keep your passport, visa copies, and other essential documents handy. Carry digital backups for added security.
2. Health and Travel Insurance
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.
- Health care in both the USA and Canada can be expensive, so having insurance is essential.
3. Currency and Money Matters
- Carry an international credit card and a mix of cash in U.S. dollars or Canadian dollars for smaller transactions.
- Inform your bank about your travel dates to avoid transaction blocks.
- Exchange a portion of your currency before traveling, as airport exchange rates can be high.
4. Weather Preparation
- The USA and Canada experience diverse weather conditions. Pack clothing suitable for the season and your destination.
- USA: Check the weather for specific regions; southern states are warmer, while northern areas can be cold.
It is suggested that to pack weather-appropriate clothes and comfortable shoes and keep an umbrella in all weather to protect yourself from the sun and rain.
- Canada: Winters are harsh; pack thermal wear, gloves, and a heavy coat if traveling in colder months.
Temperature and precipitation in travelling months
| Temperature and precipitation in travelling months | |||||
| Destination | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep |
| Banff | 14°C59mm | 18°C74mm | 22°C54mm | 21°C53mm | 15°C47mm |
| Calgary | 16°C51mm | 20°C82mm | 23°C64mm | 22°C56mm | 17°C44mm |
| Jasper | 15°C37mm | 19°C60mm | 22°C63mm | 21°C60mm | 16°C46mm |
| Lake Louise | 10°C60mm | 14°C78mm | 19°C65mm | 17°C61mm | 12°C55mm |
| Montréal | 19°C72mm | 24°C86mm | 27°C90mm | 25°C98mm | 20°C89mm |
| Niagara Falls | 18°C74mm | 24°C72mm | 27°C68mm | 26°C93mm | 22°C81mm |
| Ottawa | 19°C72mm | 24°C82mm | 26°C82mm | 25°C84mm | 20°C82mm |
| Québec City | 17°C80mm | 22°C115mm | 26°C118mm | 24°C108mm | 18°C105mm |
| Toronto | 18°C67mm | 24°C68mm | 27°C71mm | 25°C82mm | 21°C73mm |
| Vancouver | 17°C61mm | 20°C52mm | 23°C36mm | 22°C42mm | 19°C67mm |
| Whistler | 15°C53mm | 18°C52mm | 22°C39mm | 21°C44mm | 17°C57mm |
- Layers are your best friend for unpredictable weather!
5. Packing Essentials
- Include a universal travel adapter for electronic devices, as North America uses different plug types (Type A and B) and a voltage of 120V.
- Pack Indian snacks and spices if you anticipate missing home flavors. Be mindful of food import restrictions in both countries.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, as sightseeing often involves a lot of walking.
6. Transportation Tips
- USA: Public transport varies by city. Metro systems in cities like New York are efficient, but smaller towns may require car rentals.
- Canada: Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have reliable public transit. For exploring remote areas, renting a car is often necessary.
- Download rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft, widely available in both countries.
7. Communication and Connectivity
- Purchase a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for mobile connectivity.
- Free Wi-Fi is available at many airports, cafes, and public places. Consider apps like WhatsApp for staying in touch with family.
8. Food and Dining
- Indian restaurants are plentiful in major cities like New York, Toronto, Vancouver, and Chicago.
- Explore local cuisines but research halal/vegetarian/vegan-friendly options if you have dietary preferences.
- Tipping is customary in both countries (15–20% of the bill).
9. Cultural and Social Etiquette
- Respect local customs and cultural norms, including queuing, punctuality, and respecting personal space.
- Be polite and greet people.
10. Shopping and Taxes
- Prices displayed in stores exclude taxes, so expect additional charges at checkout.
- Both countries offer a variety of malls and outlet stores for shopping enthusiasts.
- Keep receipts for potential GST refunds in Canada for eligible purchases.
11. Emergency Contacts
- USA: Dial 911 for emergency assistance (police, fire, or medical).
- Canada: Dial 911 for emergencies as well.
- Note the Indian embassy or consulate details in your travel destination.
12. Explore Local Attractions
- USA: Iconic sites include the Grand Canyon, Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Disneyland.
- Canada: Don’t miss Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, and the CN Tower in Toronto.
- Research city passes and combo tickets for sightseeing discounts.
13. Stay Safe
- Avoid carrying large sums of cash and secure your valuables.
- Carry a credit/debit card in your name. Some hotels take a mandatory deposit towards incidental. Which is refundable.
- Be cautious in unfamiliar neighborhoods, especially at night.
