Entry documents
Many nationalities need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to Canada, applied for online before departure. Others need a visitor visa. Check the official IRCC site for your country well before booking.
US citizens need a valid passport. Everyone should carry proof of onward travel and accommodation bookings.
When to go
Summer (June to September) is the main season: warm weather, festivals, and full access to the parks. July and August are busiest and priciest in Banff, Niagara and the Maritimes.
Winter (December to March) is for skiing, the Quebec Winter Carnival, and the aurora in Yellowknife. Spring and autumn are quieter; autumn colours in Ontario, Quebec and the Laurentians peak late September to mid-October.
Canada is huge: Vancouver can be 10 degrees warmer than Montreal on the same winter day. Check the regional climate, not the national one.
Summer, June to September, is the main season with warm weather and full park access, but July and August are the busiest and priciest. Winter is for skiing and the aurora, while spring and autumn are quieter and cheaper.
When are you going?
Pick your travel months above.
General guidance from regional climate patterns, not a forecast. Event dates follow their traditional pattern; confirm exact days before booking.
What to pack
Layers, always. Even summer evenings in the Rockies or Maritimes can turn cold.
In winter: a real winter coat, insulated boots, gloves, hat and thermal layers. Cities are walkable but exposed.
Sun protection for the mountains and prairies; insect repellent for the northern summer.