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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Canada

Essential Preparations

Plan your journey systematically, starting well in advance.

Your Trip Journey: Step-by-Step

Follow this timeline to prepare for your Jasper adventure, from initial bookings to final packing.

1

-12 Months Ahead

Flights

Book flights to Edmonton (YEG) or Calgary (YYC).

Accommodation

Reserve your main accommodation (hotels, vacation rentals, or Parks Canada campgrounds).

Visa/eTA

Research visa or eTA requirements for Canada and apply if necessary.

2

-6 Months Ahead

Rental Car

Book your rental car; consider airport pick-up.

Tours & Activities

Plan and book popular tours (e.g., Maligne Lake Cruise, Jasper Skytram).

Parks Pass

Purchase your Parks Canada Discovery Pass online if known dates.

3

-2 Months Ahead

Passport & Documents

Check passport validity (6 months beyond departure).

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

Itinerary

Finalize detailed itinerary and research specific trail conditions.

Required Bookings & Research

Secure these elements for a smooth journey.

Confirm Your Trip Essentials

  • Flights, Accommodation, & Rental Car: Secure these well in advance.
  • Parks Canada Campgrounds & Tours: Book campgrounds quickly; reserve popular tours.
  • Parks Canada Regulations: Familiarize yourself with regulations on wildlife safety and "Leave No Trace".
  • Road Conditions & Wildlife: Review conditions for your travel dates and learn about wildlife encounters.

Home Preparation

Ensure peace of mind while you're away.

Prepare Your Home for Your Absence

  • Mail & Pets: Arrange for mail collection/forwarding and secure pet care.
  • Security & Bills: Implement home security measures and ensure bills are paid.
  • Documents & Devices: Prepare printed/digital emergency contacts; organize travel documents.
  • Charge all electronic devices before departure.

Final Preparations

The final days before your trip.

-4 Weeks Before

  • Arrange for a local SIM card or international roaming.
  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans.
  • Confirm all flight, accommodation, rental car, and tour bookings.
  • Begin compiling your packing list and purchasing any missing gear.

Week Before

  • Check the long-range weather forecast for Jasper.
  • Start packing your luggage, using a checklist.
  • Download offline maps (Google Maps, AllTrails) and other useful apps.
  • Charge all electronic devices.

-2 Days Before

  • Reconfirm flight details or shuttle pick-up times.
  • Ensure your vehicle is ready for travel (if driving).
  • Prepare a printed and digital list of emergency contacts.
  • Organize your travel documents in an accessible carry-on.

Important Note

Campgrounds, in particular, often fill within minutes of reservations opening (often in January for the upcoming summer).

Arrival & Departure

Navigating your arrival and departure with ease.

Arrival Checklist

  • 1
    First Steps Upon Arrival

    Clear customs and immigration (if arriving internationally). Collect your luggage from baggage claim.

  • 2
    Transportation from Entry Point

    Pick up your rental car or connect with your pre-booked shuttle service to reach your accommodation.

  • 3
    Orientation & Initial Purchases

    Visit the Jasper National Park Visitor Centre. Withdraw Canadian Dollars and purchase groceries if self-catering.

Departure Preparation

  • Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

    Purchase souvenirs in advance. Consider shipping larger items home if needed.

  • VAT Refund Procedures

    Canada does not have a general VAT/GST/HST refund program for tourists on goods purchased.

  • Pre-Departure Timing

    Allow ample time for driving to the airport and clearing security checks. Arrive at train/bus station 15-30 minutes prior to departure.

Return Trip Checklist

Flight Confirmation

Reconfirm your flight details or other onward travel arrangements.

Check for any last-minute schedule changes or gate information.

Packing & Belongings

Ensure all personal belongings are packed. Double-check closets and drawers.

Avoid leaving anything behind.

Waste Disposal & Checkout

Dispose of all trash and recycling responsibly at your accommodation or designated park facilities.

Check out of your accommodation according to their policy.

Final Check

Ensure your mobile phone service is working (if you purchased a local SIM or activated roaming).

Further Trip Planning

Utilize these tips for a well-prepared and enjoyable journey.

Before You Leave

  • Familiarize yourself with Parks Canada regulations on wildlife safety.
  • Review road conditions for your travel dates, especially if driving the Icefields Parkway.
  • Learn about local wildlife and what to do in case of an encounter.
  • Plan your route and stops, allowing for spontaneous discovery.

On the Road

  • Ensure your vehicle has a full tank before embarking on long scenic drives.
  • Drive safely and obey all speed limits, especially in wildlife zones.
  • Use designated pull-offs for viewing and photography.
  • Be mindful of changing road conditions and potential wildlife on the road.

Budgeting Your Trip

Keep track of your expenses with these categories.

Expense Categories

  • AccommodationHotel/Camping
  • TransportationFlights/Rental Car/Fuel
  • Food & DiningGroceries/Restaurants
  • Activities & ToursEntry Fees/Excursions

Essential Documents Checklist

  • Passport (and visa/eTA if applicable).
  • Driver's license (International Driving Permit if needed).
  • Copies of prescriptions for any medications.
  • Travel insurance policy details.

Final Reminder

Ensure your mobile phone service works (if you purchased a local SIM or activated roaming).

Confirm all flight, accommodation, rental car, and tour bookings before you depart.