Most trips go exactly as planned. But when they don’t, having the right documents at your fingertips can make a stressful situation much easier to manage.
Whether it’s a lost passport, medical emergency, or an unexpected travel interruption or cancellation, being prepared before you leave can save valuable time and help you access support when you need it most.
A few minutes of preparation before you travel can make all the difference if the unexpected happens.
What Documents Do You Need When Travelling Internationally?
Use this checklist before leaving home:
✅Passport (and a digital copy)
✅Travel insurance documents (digital copy of your policy details will suffice)
✅Flight and accommodation details
✅Required visas or entry documents
✅Emergency contact information (and a physical copy of your host’s contact information, in case your phone gets lost)
✅Canadian embassy or consulate information
What Documents Do You Need at the Border?
Your passport (and any fast pass such as NEXUS) is usually the most important document when crossing an international border, but depending on your destination, you may also need:
- Proof of return or onward travel
- Accommodation details
- Required visas or travel authorizations
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Proof of travel insurance
Entry requirements vary by country, so check your destination’s requirements before you leave.
Know Where to Find Your TuGo Documents
If you need emergency medical assistance or have questions about your coverage, you’ll want your policy information readily available.
Before you leave, make sure you know where to find your:
- TuGo Digital Coverage Card (ideally added to your Google or Apple Wallet)
- Policy confirmation email (also includes emergency numbers)
- TuGo’s Website & Toll-Free Numbers
Having these documents readily available on your phone before you travel means you’ll have them ready whenever you need them, even if you have limited internet access.
What Should You Do If You Lose Your Passport Abroad?
A lost passport can be stressful, but taking the right steps can help you get back on track.
If your passport is lost or stolen:
- Report it to local authorities if required.
- Contact the nearest Canadian embassy, high commission, or consulate.
- Follow their instructions for replacing your passport or obtaining emergency travel documents.
TIP: Before travelling, email yourself a copy of your passport and keep a secure digital backup.
Know How to Get Help While Abroad
Register with ROCA Before You Go
The Government of Canada’s Registration of Canadians Abroad (ROCA) service helps Canadian officials contact you during emergencies overseas.
If a natural disaster, civil unrest, public health emergency, or travel warning occurs while you’re travelling, ROCA can help ensure you receive important updates and information.
You can register before you leave Canada or while you’re already travelling abroad.
Find Your Canadian Embassy or Consulate Before You Need It
You may not need to contact a Canadian embassy or consulate during your trip, but knowing where to find one before you travel can save valuable time during an emergency.
Before your departure, save the location and contact information for the nearest Canadian government office at your destination.
Travel disruptions aren’t always avoidable, but being prepared can make them much easier to handle. Before your next trip, take a few minutes to organize your important documents, store secure digital copies, and ensure you know how to access support if something unexpected happens.
You hope you’ll never need any of it, but if you do, having the right information readily available can make all the difference.
Safe travels,
Monique
