Do you need shots before you travel? Here’s what to know before you go
If you’re planning an international trip, your to-do list probably includes packing, booking hotels, and double-checking your passport. But here’s something many Canadians forget until the last minute—vaccinations. Or as people often say in a rush, “Do I need shots before I travel?”
It’s an easy question to overlook, but the answer can make all the difference between a healthy, happy trip and one that’s, well, memorable for the wrong reasons.
Where to find travel vaccination information
The first step is finding reliable information. Don’t just search “travel shots” and hope for the best. The Government of Canada’s Travel Health page is your most up-to-date source. It lists recommended and required vaccines for each country and region, along with current health advisories. You can also look at the World Health Organization (WHO) for global updates. Canadian guidance should always be your starting point.
If you’re not sure how to interpret the advice—or if you have unique health needs—talk to a travel health clinic or your family doctor. They’ll review your travel plans, vaccination history, and any medical conditions to give you personalized advice.
What travel vaccines do you need
The vaccines you need depend on where you’re going, how long you’re staying, and what kind of travel you’ll be doing. For example, a 2-week resort vacation in Portugal is very different from a backpacking trip through rural Southeast Asia.
Common travel vaccines include:
- Hepatitis A and B: Recommended for most travelers, especially if you’ll be eating local food or staying for an extended time
- Typhoid: A good idea if you’re visiting regions with limited sanitation or safe drinking water
- Yellow fever: Required for entry into some countries in Africa and South America
- Japanese encephalitis or rabies: For travelers spending a lot of time outdoors or in rural areas
- Routine vaccines: Make sure your tetanus, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), and polio shots are up to date
Your healthcare provider might also recommend medication to prevent illnesses like malaria, which aren't covered by a vaccine.
Where to get vaccinations for travel
You can get travel vaccines from:
- Public health units: Often the most affordable option
- Travel health clinics: These specialize in pre-travel consultations and may offer evening or weekend hours
- Pharmacies: Many Canadian pharmacists are now certified to administer vaccines, making it convenient to combine your travel prep with your errands
Cost of travel vaccines
Most travel vaccines are funded by your provincial health plan—they come with a fee. The cost may range from $40-$300 CAD depending on the vaccine, where you get the vaccine, and your province. It’s worth checking your private health or travel insurance plan to see if the cost is covered. Some plans will reimburse you for vaccine costs.
How far in advance to get vaccines
Ideally, start planning your travel vaccinations 6 to 8 weeks before departure. Some vaccines require multiple doses spread over several weeks, and others take time to become fully effective. That said, even if you’re leaving next week, it’s still worth visiting a clinic—some protection is better than none.
And one small but important note: don’t wait until you’re already packing your suitcases to ask, “Do I need shots before I travel?” Give yourself—and your immune system—enough time to prepare.
Travel vaccines 101: the takeaway
Travel opens the world, but it can also expose you to new health risks. With a little preparation and the right vaccines, you can focus on what really matters: exploring, connecting, and coming home healthy. So before you check in for your flight, check your vaccination record too. Take a look at our travel insurance options while you're planning.
Safe travels!