If you have found yourself outside of Canada while trying to get home from a trip, here are some tips and resources that may help you get back on track, or at least make the most of an unfortunate situation. 

Check a regularly updated list of airline cancellation policies. For information about the status of a flight, train, or bus trip, always consult the service provider’s website or app, don’t wait to get to the point of departure to find out about a cancellation.

Call your country’s local consulate or embassy. In addition to assisting travelers in finding transportation back home, many government agencies can help travelers get in touch with family or friends and may even provide monetary support for food and other basics if you’re in a pinch. You can find emergency contact information here: https://travel.gc.ca/assistance/emergency-assistance

Don’t be afraid to call your travel insurance provider or your travel agent to get the most specific information possible as it pertains to your situation. If you booked your trip on a credit card, especially one with rewards points or other perks for travelers, see if you can leverage your points or coverage policies to offset the cost of additional time in hotels.

Stay in contact with your friends and family back home. Although separated physically, you’re only a quick phone call away from receiving the support and love you need to get through a tough time.

If you have gotten sick when you are travelling and staying in a hotel, let the hotel staff know so they can help you. Most major tourist hotels have in-house doctors who can provide medical care. Hotels can also arrange appointments with local physicians.

If you need urgent care, the best option is often the nearest hospital. In some countries, ambulances may not be common. Use whatever form of transportation you have to get to a hospital.

If you know someone who has been stranded outside of Canada, ensure that you stay in touch with them and do some research here at home regarding ways they can get back. They may have limited access to internet and the information here in Canada that could help their situation.