Do you want to travel again, but you don’t want to deal with all the restrictions? Obviously, you don’t mind spending a bit of your travel budget on a test before you leave. There are several countries you can enter without testing or quarantine! Here are five destinations:
1. Mexico 
Mexico is one of the only destinations in the world that has never closed its borders during the pandemic. You can travel there without testing or quarantine. If you are a backpacker, you will be charmed by life in Mexico City, a vibrant little-known city. If you catch a discount flight to Cancun, head onwards to Tulum or Isla Holbox. For the west coast, go in the direction of Puerto Escondido, Mazunte and Zipolite.
Yes | Borders open to Canadians
Get the best travel insurance for Mexico at $42 per month
2. Colombia 
Since June 4, 2021, you no longer need to show a negative test on arrival. Canadians must show proof of full vaccination to enter the country, but there are no further restrictions or quarantines once there. Colombia is a magical destination for backpackers. You will love Medellín, the city of Pablo, which has much more to offer than what you saw in the series on Netflix. For a little hippie paradise, head to Palomino after visiting Cartagena and Santa Marta! The hostels are modern, cheap and offer you tons of activities. You are going to trip out on this experience!
- Yes | Borders open to Canadians
Don’t leave without your travel insurance for Colombia here
3. El Salvador 
Since November 17, 2021, there’s no need to present a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country. It will make it easier for you to plan your next surf trip! El Salvador attracts backpackers with its waves and its authentic beachy side! Head towards El Zonte.
- Yes | Borders open to Canadians
Don’t forget your travel insurance for El Salvador here
4. Costa Rica 
You don’t need a test to travel to Costa Rica, nor do you need to quarantine. You now need to show proof of vaccination and have travel insurance. Before you arrive, you need to:
1.) Complete the digital form called HEALTH PASS, available here. This can only be completed within 72 hours of arrival in the country. You will be able to attach your proof of vaccination in this form.
2.) You must have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Please note that the letter must be in English or Spanish, which is why we recommend SafetyWing for travel insurance. With SafetyWing, you will be able to show that you meet the country’s criteria and at a very reasonable price, around USD 42 per month!
- Yes | Borders open to Canadians
Buy your adapted travel insurance for Costa Rica here
5. The Dominican Republic 
You don’t need a test or a quarantine to travel to the Dominican Republic. As of September 5, 2020, testing is no longer necessary for travellers. If you want to stay at a “resort,” you don’t have to plan anything. If you’re going to travel as an independent traveller, shops and services (buses, grocery stores, banks, etc.) outside the “resorts” will ask to see your vaccination card as of November 2021. The Dominican Republic is a little-known destination for backpackers, but there are indeed some incredible hostels to stay at and activities to do. Add to your backpacker list: San Domingo for the colonial charm of the old town, Cabarete for kitesurfing and parties, Encuentro for surfing and Jarabacoa for the fresh mountain air.
- Yes | Borders open to Canadians
Get your travel insurance for the Dominican Republic here
Prepare for your next trip!
* Remember to check the travel advisories often. Information can change quickly!
