Getting Ready to Leave...

Hello!

I am a Canadian getting ready to leave with my boyfriend on a long-term sailing trip from Northern California down to Ecuador and across the Pacific to New Zealand on a 30ft sailboat.

Although I have done extensive travelling in much of Europe, and even spent a year down in Mexico, I am a little wary on "catch 22's" that might occur after being out of the country for over a year, and things I might want to take into consideration while travelling abroad.

I was wondering if anyone had any pointers on paperwork, etc I might want to get done before I leave (if there is any?). As well, should I be looking at getting my International Driver's license? Are countries in S. America demanding them for car rentals?

What should I do before I leave Canada?
What do you wish YOU did before you left?
Cheers!
Rach

Make sure your passports have 18 months until expiry. I gather you know where you will sail and which ports you will stay in. Be sure to contact any consular/embassy service of these countries to ensure you have the proper documentation or permits.

Goodness you are adventurous! I wouldn't sail on a 30 ft that far! I trust you are all experienced sailors.

Previously, I have secured an Int'l Drivers Permit but I always brought along my provincial/state one too. I would use a debit Visa or Mastercard as there have been many cases where a credit card has been skimmed and the owner left destitute. A debit credit card allows you to put as much cash on it as you are willing and able and also has the same security features as a regular card. You can also transfer more cash from a bank account on it (as you can attach it to yr savings or chequing accounts - check which bank offers this).

I would register with the Canadian government should there be a mishap so relatives and/or friends can be immediately notified.

Here is a link that proved to be useful for a couple that did the same thing... it gives you much info on problems travelling in foreign waters.
www icc-ccs. (dot)org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=30&Itemid=12

Also, you have to notify your provincial heath insurance office that you will be out of the country temporarily, and you'll be returning approximately X date. Otherwise you will have to re-apply for provincial health insurance when you return, and that will take a couple of months.

You will also want to get traveller's health insurance for while you are abroad. Your provincial health insurance will not cover all charges while you are away.

Check the immigration websites for all countries you intend to stop in and make sure you don't need a visitors visa, or that they're easy enough to get at port. Some countries may require that you apply at their embassy in Canada ahead of time.