Digital basics for travel
Your devices are part of your travel plan.
Not because you need to become a cybersecurity person. Because a dead, lost, or unlocked phone can make normal travel problems more annoying.
The point
Protect your access before you need it.
Approved basics
A few simple habits cover most of what's useful for normal travel.
- Use a strong device passcode.
- Keep operating systems and apps updated before travel.
- Use multi-factor authentication where available.
- Back up important travel information securely.
- Be cautious about entering sensitive information on unknown or untrusted networks.
- Use official charging options or your own charger or power source where feasible.
- Keep devices physically with you when possible.
- Know how to contact your bank, mobile provider, and key services if your phone is lost.
- Save key support details in a way you can access if your phone is unavailable.
What not to assume. Digital safety advice changes quickly. Check current official guidance before relying on a specific technical recommendation.
Official Canadian cyber guidance
For current, verified steps, review the Government of Canada's Get Cyber Safe travel guidance.
Confirm current guidance directly on GetCyberSafe.gc.ca before relying on a specific recommendation.
Your phone is useful. Your plan should still have a backup.