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Thousand Islands Travel Checklist

Thousand Islands Travel Checklist

Thousand Islands Canada Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

A historical timeline structures your tasks effectively.

Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations well in advance.

1

+ Months Before

Visa/eTA

Determine visa and Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) needs. Apply if necessary.

Passport Validity

Check your passport's expiration date. Renew if it has under six months validity.

Flights

Book flights, especially during peak season or holidays, to obtain better prices.

2

-2 Months Before

Accommodation Booking

Book your lodging. This is a must for high season travel.

Major Tours Booking

Book major tours (e.g., Boldt Castle cruise, Kingston Penitentiary tour) that frequently sell out.

Travel Insurance

Secure comprehensive travel insurance from World Nomads.

3

-4 Weeks Before

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all your flight, accommodation, and tour bookings.

Travel Gear

Obtain any needed travel gear, like a Universal adapter, Portable charger, or Dry bag.

Document Copies

Create digital and physical copies of important documents. Keep them separate from originals.

Bookings to Make Early

Secure these bookings well in advance.

Bookings

  • Flights, especially if flying to major hubs like Toronto or Ottawa.
  • Accommodations are available a must for travel during the peak summer season.
  • Popular boat tours, notably those that stop at Boldt Castle, have strong demand.
  • Kingston Penitentiary tours frequently sell out months ahead.

Pre-Trip Research

Get informed before you travel.

Research Areas

  • Read a comprehensive guidebook about Canada or Ontario to form a general understanding.
  • Explore the official tourism websites for Gananoque, Brockville, and Kingston.
  • Review recent traveler feedback on platforms like TripAdvisor for practical insights.

Home Preparation

Steps to take before you leave your home.

Pet & Mail Arrangements

  • Organize for pet care or house-sitting if needed.
  • Pause mail and newspaper delivery or arrange for a neighbor to collect them.

Financial & Contact Info

  • Handle any upcoming bills due during your absence.
  • Notify trusted family or friends about your itinerary and emergency contacts.

Home Security

  • Make your home safe: lock all windows and doors.
  • Set alarms if you have them.

Document Copies

Create physical and electronic copies of all key documents. Store them in separate places to guarantee you have backups if one set is lost.

Arrival Checklist

The primary hours upon arrival are busy. Follow these steps for an easy transition.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Customs and Immigration

    Show your passport and any needed visa/eTA. Answer questions clearly and honestly.

  • 2
    Retrieve Luggage

    Collect your checked baggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Locate Transportation

    Find your rental car desk, pre-arranged shuttle service, or taxi stand.

Orientation Strategies

  • Head to Accommodation

    Proceed directly to your lodging to drop off luggage and make yourself at home in. This gives a base for immediate orientation.

  • Tourism Information Center

    Locate the nearest tourism information center. Collect free maps, brochures, and ask staff for current advice.

  • Familiarize Yourself

    Take a short walk around your immediate surroundings to sense the area and locate nearby restaurants.

Currency & Initial Purchases

Canadian Dollars CAD

Use an ATM to withdraw Canadian Dollars if cash is desired.

Cash machines are common in towns.

Local SIM Card

If purchasing a local SIM card, find a mobile provider store in Kingston or a larger town.

Get better rates and selection than airport kiosks.

Transportation from Entry

Follow your pre-arranged plans for airport transfers or rental car pick-up.

If taking public transit, be aware of your route from the airport/station to your accommodation.

Local Map Tip

Collect a local map from a tourism information center. This aids orientation and discovery of nearby points of interest.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure for a smooth and stress-free exit.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • Buy souvenirs well before your departure day to avoid rushing.
  • If you purchased large or heavy items, check international shipping costs and customs for your home country.
  • Local post offices assist with shipping.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Canada lacks a general tourist VAT (Value Added Tax) refund program for goods purchased.
  • You generally cannot claim a tax refund on consumer goods taken out of the country.

Pre-Departure Timing

Plan your travel to the airport or border crossing carefully.

Airport Travel

  • Allow sufficient time for travel to the airport.
  • This involves potential traffic, check-in, and security procedures.
  • For international flights, arrive 2-3 hours before departure.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Verify your flight details or onward travel guideings (trains, buses) at least 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Make sure all your things are packed. Double-check drawers, closets, and under beds.
  • Know your hotel's check-out time and procedures.
  • Verify how you get around from your accommodation to the departure point.

Confirm Flight Status

Check your flight status 24 hours before departure. This helps you remain informed of any changes and arrive at the airport at the right time.