Plan
your trip with confidence using this Canada travel do’s and don’ts
guide. Learn local etiquette, cultural norms, and essential tips to
explore Canada respectfully, safely, and like a well-prepared
traveller.
• Greet politely. A handshake or friendly smile is the norm — Canadians value courtesy and personal space.
• Respect queues. Always wait your turn; line etiquette is taken seriously.
• Tip 15–20%. This is standard in restaurants and cafés for good service.
• Recycle and dispose of waste properly. Environmental awareness is high across the country.
• Be punctual. Arriving on time for tours, meetings or dinner plans shows respect.
• Hold doors open. Small acts of politeness are widely appreciated.
• Use English and French greetings. Especially in bilingual areas like Québec.
• Acknowledge Indigenous heritage. Respect for First Nations culture is deeply valued.
• Dress for the climate. Layers are essential due to changing weather conditions.
• Buy local products. Canadians take pride in regional craftsmanship and food.
• Don’t assume everyone speaks French. English dominates outside Québec.
• Don’t cut in line. Queue-jumping is universally frowned upon.
• Don’t compare Canada to the USA. Canadians value their distinct national identity.
• Don’t litter or feed wildlife. Fines are strict, especially in national parks.
• Don’t underestimate distances. Travel times between cities can be long.
• Don’t smoke indoors. Public indoor smoking bans apply nationwide.
• Don’t forget winter safety. Proper boots and coats are essential in icy conditions.
• Don’t joke about Indigenous culture. Always treat it with respect.
• Don’t expect haggling. Prices are fixed, even at markets.
• Don’t invade personal space. Calm, respectful distance is preferred.
• Politeness defines daily life. Humility and courtesy are admired traits.
• Small talk is friendly. Weather and hockey are safe conversation starters.
• Greetings vary by region. Cheek kisses in parts of Québec; handshakes elsewhere.
• Multiculturalism is a point of pride. Canada embraces diverse backgrounds.
• Bilingualism is respected. Signage and services may appear in both languages.
• Equality matters. Discrimination is socially and legally unacceptable.
• Apologies are cultural. “Sorry” is polite, not an admission of fault.
• Outdoor lifestyles are common. Hiking, camping and skiing are popular pastimes.
• Stay calm and considerate. Loudness or aggression is viewed negatively.
• Fairness is valued. Rules, queues and consideration for others matter.
• Carry travel insurance. Healthcare for visitors can be expensive.
• Book parks and ferries early. Summer availability fills quickly.
• Use contactless payments. Cards and digital wallets are widely accepted.
• Pack warm layers. Even summer evenings can be cool in some regions.
• Check time zones. Canada spans six major zones.
• Rent a car to explore. Remote areas often lack public transport.
• Winter tyres may be required. Especially in snowy provinces.
• Use official transport only. Licensed taxis or verified ride-share apps.
• Carry ID or a passport copy. Identification may be requested.
• Drink tap water confidently. It’s clean and safe nationwide.
• Canadians are genuinely helpful. Asking for directions or advice is welcomed.
• Local markets are thriving. Great for crafts, produce and souvenirs.
• Visit Indigenous cultural centres. Learn respectfully about First Nations traditions.
• Early summer is ideal. Fewer crowds and excellent wildlife spotting.
• Autumn colours are spectacular. Especially in Ontario and Québec.
• Explore coastal regions. Vancouver Island and Newfoundland offer unique charm.
• Try regional treats. Maple syrup, butter tarts and craft beer are favourites.
• Experience the midnight sun. Yukon and northern territories offer endless daylight.
• Festivals run year-round. Food, film and music events are common.
• See the Northern Lights. Best in Yukon, Nunavut and northern Manitoba.
• Canada is generally safe. Prepare for extreme weather and remote conditions.
• Respect wildlife distance. Bears, moose and elk can be dangerous.
• Carry bear spray where advised. Legal and common for wilderness hiking.
• Obey speed limits. Enforcement and fines are strict.
• Cannabis laws vary by province. Legal for adults but regulated locally.
• Alcohol purchases require ID. Sold only in licensed outlets.
• Seatbelts are mandatory. All passengers must buckle up.
• Prepare for winter hazards. Avalanches and icy roads occur in mountain areas.
• Secure valuables. Petty theft can occur in busy cities.
• Public drinking is restricted. Allowed only in designated areas.
• English is primary. French is used in Québec and parts of New Brunswick.
• Speak calmly and clearly. Polite communication is appreciated.
• Avoid overly personal questions. Especially with new acquaintances.
• Email or text is preferred. Phone calls are less common.
• Wi-Fi is reliable. Coverage drops in remote regions.
• Accents vary regionally. All are accepted and respected.
• Politeness phrases matter. “Sorry,” “please,” and “thank you” are everyday essentials.
• Use the metric system. Kilometres and Celsius are standard.
• Address people respectfully. Titles or first names depend on context.
• Basic French is appreciated. “Bonjour” and “Merci” go a long way in bilingual areas.