Whether you are there for a short stay, or heading off on a long road trip, driving in the beautiful and often wild country of Canada is unlike anywhere else in the world. The good news is you can discover all the most important things you’ll need to drive safely in Canada. Keep reading to find out what they are.
Rules of the road
When driving in Canada it is important to remember that passing is always done on the left. Trucks however are not allowed in the leftmost lane, and that includes vans and RVs, so be sure to adhere to this rule if you’re road-tripping.
Another important rule of the road in Canada is that while not technically illegal, it’s not good to pass a streetcar that has stopped to let passengers off or on. However, this is only relevant if you find yourself driving in the cities.
Lastly, it’s important to understand that to drive in Canada you have to have a license that is valid in Canada. This can get a bit complicated as in some provinces and territories, drivers from overseas may need to sit a drivetest before they operate a vehicle. Fortunately, it’s very easy to find a book and a drive test that is local to your starting point online.
Van and RV driving in Canada
Plenty of people choose to explore the beautiful wilderness of Canada by RV or van. However, pulling over and parking wherever you like is not allowed in Canada. Instead, there are some specific places you will be permitted to camp and some specific places you must avoid.
For example, campsites, rest areas, and even some small shopping center car parks can be good spots for vans and RVs. Indeed, as most campsites provide freshwater, electrical and sewage hookups as well as picnic benches and fire pits they are usually the best option out of the bunch. Just be sure to book ahead of time, especially during the peak summer season as you will not be the only travelers.
Places you need to avoid even parking, as well as camping, include wilderness areas, national and provincial parks and any First Nations land.
Road signs
For those not from Canada or the US, it’s helpful to note that road signs may not be as prevalent as you are used to. Indeed, you may find that they are only placed at the side of the road and there are no markings on the road at all.
Additionally, Canada boats stop signs that are four-way, which may confuse and even a little panic the first few times you run into them. The good news is that they are pretty easy to navigate, once you realize that the person that has right of way is the person that reaches the sign first.
Driving in the winter
Famous for its snow and ice come wintertime, it’s important that you consider the impact that weather can have on the safety of your drive. Winter tyres with improved grip are best during the colder months and are even mandated by law in some locations in Canada.
