What Canadians should do before travelling

May 14, 2026 Team Contributor

Canadians heading abroad this summer are being urged to prepare for potential flight disruptions as the escalating conflict in the Middle East puts added pressure on global aviation networks and fuel supplies.

In a new advisory issued May 12, the Government of Canada cautioned that “fuel shortages may lead to flight cancellations and disrupt access to local goods and services at your destination.” The warning applies not only to travellers bound for the Middle East, but also to those transiting through the region—or even flying elsewhere in the world. The travel warning makes it very clear what travellers can expect from Ottawa.

The travel warning from Global Affairs Canada observes that with jet fuel prices rising and several airlines already adjusting schedules, Canadian travellers could face knock-on effects, including route changes, longer delays and last-minute cancellations.

“Your travel plans could be disrupted if you are travelling to the Middle East, going through the region or even if you are not travelling to the Middle East,” Global Affairs Canada said.

What Canadians should do before travelling

The travel warning urges travellers to take extra precautions. Here’s what it says:

Confirm your flight status with your airline before departure and before returning to Canada
Review travel insurance to ensure it covers trip interruption and cancellation
Carry enough medication and funds in case you are stranded abroad
Check passport validity, visas and entry requirements
Prepare for weather risks, including hurricane season

The government stressed that “travelling is a personal choice, and Canadians must make informed decisions,” adding that Ottawa’s ability to assist abroad “may be limited.”

No financial assistance if you’re stranded

One of the most important clauses of the travel warning is that the federal government will not cover extra expenses if your trip is disrupted.

“No financial assistance will be provided by the Government of Canada.”

That means Canadians should be financially prepared to extend hotel stays, rebook flights and cover daily expenses if they cannot return home as planned.

For emergency consular help, Canadians can contact Global Affairs Canada 24/7 at +1 613 996 8885 or by email at [email protected].

As geopolitical tensions intensify and fuel markets remain volatile, the message from Ottawa is clear: plan carefully, insure adequately and prepare for unexpected disruptions.