Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink.
North America country brief
Canada travel essentials
Canada uses Type A / Type B power outlets at 120V, 60Hz. The general emergency number is 911. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
Last reviewed
Verify visa and entry rules with official authorities before travel.
Quick answer
Canada uses Type A / Type B power outlets at 120V, 60Hz. The general emergency number is 911. Tap water is generally safe to drink.
P
Power and plugs
- Plug types
- Type A, Type B
- Voltage
- 120V
- Frequency
- 60Hz
Canada runs at 120V. Travelers from 220–240V regions (Europe, most of Asia) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
E
Emergency numbers
General
911
Police
911
Ambulance
911
T
Travel notes
Tipping
Tipping is customary in Canada. In restaurants, 15-20% before tax is common when service is good. Smaller tips are also normal for taxis, hotel staff, tour guides and hairdressers.
Best season
June to September is best for road trips, lakes and national parks. September and October are excellent for fall colours. Winter is ideal for skiing and northern-light trips, but weather can disrupt long-distance travel.
Visa basics
Many visa-exempt visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorization when flying to Canada, while others need a visitor visa. Entry rules vary by passport and transit route, so verify through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
✓
Before you go: Canada checklist
- Pack a Type A/Type B plug adapter for Canada.
- Canada runs at 120V. Travelers from 220–240V regions (Europe, most of Asia) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
- Bring a refillable bottle — tap water in Canada is generally safe.
- Save the emergency number 911 in your phone before you arrive.
- If you'll drive, remember traffic keeps to the right in Canada.
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Reference
Emergency numbers by country
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Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I drink tap water in Canada? ⌄
Yes. Tap water in Canada is considered safe to drink.
What power plug and voltage are used in Canada? ⌄
Canada uses Type A, Type B plugs running at 120V, 60Hz. Canada runs at 120V. Travelers from 220–240V regions (Europe, most of Asia) need a voltage converter for devices that aren't dual-voltage.
What is the emergency number in Canada? ⌄
Dial 911 for general emergencies in Canada. Police: 911. Ambulance: 911.
When is the best time to visit Canada? ⌄
June to September is best for road trips, lakes and national parks. September and October are excellent for fall colours. Winter is ideal for skiing and northern-light trips, but weather can disrupt long-distance travel.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Canada? ⌄
In Canada, traffic drives on the right side of the road, so the steering wheel is on the left.
What is the country calling code for Canada? ⌄
The international dialing code for Canada is +1. Dial this prefix after your exit code (e.g. 00 or +) to call a Canada number from abroad.
S
Sources
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