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Traveler FAQs: Canada

Canada, Education, Traveler FAQs

Updated over a week ago

We are frequently asked questions regarding what and how to prepare for a trip to Canada. From accommodations to tipping Guides, you can find the answers here!

Click on the question you're interested in to view the answer. If you can't find what you're looking for, please reach out to our Customer Support team here.

Accommodation

Can I purchase a single (private) tent?

No, we are not selling single tents for any camping trips. All Travelers will have a shared, double occupancy tent unless there is an uneven number of Travelers.

If there is an uneven number, then a single tent will be assigned to a Traveler who will be selected at random. Hosts will have a private tent if originally requested.

Can I bring my own tent?

Typically, the answer is no. The campsites we use have a maximum number of tents allowed per campsite, and for this reason, we are unable to accommodate additional tents.

That said, if this is something you are interested in, please reach out to us at support@trovatrip.com.

Please be aware that there likely will be a fee associated with this, determined by the Operator, that you will be responsible for paying.

Are there laundry services available?

There are no laundry services available at the campgrounds that you'll be staying at, so please pack accordingly.

Are there showers at the campsites?

You bet! There are free showers at all the campsites.

Are there outlets at the campsites?

Typically, the bathrooms will have outlets, but we'd recommend you also bring a battery pack to make sure your electronics stay charged!

Food and Beverage

What type of snacks will be provided?

Typical camping/hiking snacks will be provided - think granola bars, fruits, crackers, chips, nuts, and trail mix.

What are the alcohol and cannabis policies?

Several policies are in place to ensure all visitors of the park get a good night’s sleep. An alcohol and cannabis consumption ban is in effect daily at all campgrounds during quiet hours from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.

During summer long weekends, a complete ban on the possession of alcohol and cannabis is in effect at all campgrounds.

Gear

Are trekking poles provided?

Yes! Trekking poles are provided for folks who need them. If you'd like to bring your own, you're welcome to.

If you do decide to bring your own, please be advised that many airlines do not allow you to carry trekking poles in your carry-on, so make sure you pack them in your checked luggage!

Will there be camping chairs?

Yes, there will be some camping chairs and picnic tables at all campsites.

Are night lights, lanterns, or flashlights provided?

No. Travelers should bring their own headlamps/hand-help lanterns if they wish to use them.

Are utensils provided?

Yes! All utensils and dishes will be provided, you don't need to bring your own.

Are sleeping pads provided? What type of sleeping pad is it?

Yes, sleeping pads are provided for all Travelers. Please note that you should pack your pillow and sleeping bag, though! The sleeping pads are self-inflating 1.5-inch pads by the local Canadian company, Yanes.

What clothing will I need on the hikes?

In general, you should prepare to dress in layers. One of the major factors on all of these treks is the wind, so the clothing that protects you from the wind should be considered. Trekking poles are optional. Crampons are included (if needed, and only if you are glacier hiking..

What size wetsuits are available?

The supplier typically carries wetsuits ranging from size S-4XL.

Can I wear trail running shoes, or do I need to have hiking boots?

We would really, highly recommend you wear hiking boots that you know fit well and that are reasonably broken in so you don't get blisters.

If you'd like to wear trail running shoes, as long as the sole is adapted to rocky trails/ terrain and the foot is well supported (no very soft top or very used runners), you should be okay.

There are lots of brands that make excellent trail running shoes/ low top boots, so it does not necessarily have to be a big high top boot.

By late June/early July, there should not be any snow on the trails, but there may be mud, water, and uneven terrain you should be ready for.

Preparation

I'm worried about my ability to complete these hikes. What should I do?

You don't need to be a professional hiker to have safe fun on these trails, but having a moderate to high level of fitness is important. Hiking in the Canadian Rockies is not just about elevation gain and mileage - it's also a challenge of altitude.

To have fun, you need to be safe. While there is usually a shorter option for those who are interested in it, you should be able to hike for several hours on moderate trails at the very least.

You always have the option of completely opting out of group hikes/activities, but please note that this sort of decision has to be made before you start hiking. You cannot just turn back on your own once a hike has started.

You are in bear country, and you could get lost coming back on your own on the trail. Guides always make sure to have an easier alternative on the morning of each hike - the bravest thing to do is to acknowledge your limits so that you can continue to have safe fun! Learn the line between a safe and an unsafe challenge and what that feels like in your body. No shame in the sit-out game!

How many Guides and Drivers will be on the trip?

It depends on the number of Travelers on your trip with you, but typically there are 1-2 Guides who also serve as your drivers and cooks!

Is there a chance to exchange currency on the Canadian Rockies itinerary?

You can (and should) exchange currency at the Calgary Airport. The group drives from YYC straight to the Lake Louise campground through Canmore and Banff if ever a stop is needed.

Transportation

Are arrival airport transfers flexible on timing?

No, they are not. All of these trips are camping trips, so the group will transfer from the airport to the first campsite, typically a long driving distance. You must book within flight guidelines to ensure there’s enough time for all activities on the itinerary for Day 1. No exceptions can be made here.


If you miss the included transfer, you'll be responsible for getting yourself to the campsite.

Please double-check your Trip Page for specific flight guidelines for each trip.

Are departure airport transfers flexible on timing?

No, they are not. Due to driving distance from the last location to the airport, you will need to book your departure flights within the flight guidelines to join the group departure airport transfer. Otherwise, you will need to arrange your transportation to get back to the airport for their departure. No exceptions can be made here.

If you have booked an early departure flight, we encourage you to book them later to meet flight guidelines.

Please double-check your Trip Page for specific flight guidelines for each trip.

I was scheduled to arrive within the Travel Guidelines, but my flight is delayed. What do I do?

First, as soon as you can, please contact your Guide through the TrovaTrip app and let them know you are delayed.

The group can wait up to 1 hour after the group arrival transfer time that has been set. If flights are delayed after the group transfer time, you will need to reserve your shuttle. This is to be arranged and paid for by you (just another reason we recommend you get Trip Insurance - this sort of thing can potentially be covered under some policies!)

Banff Itinerary: We recommend Banff Airporter - they offer shuttles every hour and as late as 10:30pm (roughly $~50 CAD). You will have to take the shuttle to Banff, where one of the Guides will pick you up and bring you to the campsite to meet the rest of the group. You must use the TrovaTrip app group chat to communicate timing and whereabouts with the Guide.

Please note, this late arrival pick-up from Banff is only possible for departures with 2 Guides. Otherwise, you will have to make your way to Lake Louise Visitor's Center/Lake Louise Campground.

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British Colombia Itinerary: We recommend Skylynx - they offer shuttles from Vancouver airport to Squamish. However, the latest shuttle leaves the airport at 6:00pm, and may already be fully booked. Please book a taxi as a last resort if you are delayed past 6:00pm.

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Quebec Itinerary: Unfortunately, there is no shuttle and no way to get to the first campground other than to take a very expensive taxi. The campground is located in Grands-Jardins Provincial Parc, about a 2-hour drive from the Quebec City airport YQB.

Please refer to the Trip Prep guide here for additional information about Canada.

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