# Poland Travel Advisory Update: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know in May 2026
Planning a trip to Warsaw, Krakow, or the Polish countryside? If you’re an Ottawa traveller with Poland on your itinerary, there’s important information you should know about the country’s current security situation and how to prepare for a safe, healthy visit.
Canada’s government updated its travel advisory for Poland on May 8, 2026, maintaining a **Level 1 risk rating — Take Normal Security Precautions**. This is the lowest advisory level, meaning Poland remains a relatively safe destination for Canadian tourists. However, “normal precautions” doesn’t mean no precautions, and understanding the specific risks will help ensure your European adventure goes smoothly.
## What’s Behind the Advisory?
The ongoing armed conflict in neighbouring Ukraine continues to influence Poland’s security landscape. Since Russia’s 2022 invasion, projectiles have occasionally crossed into Polish airspace, and debris has landed near the border region. While these incidents are rare and typically isolated to areas directly adjacent to Ukraine, they’re a reminder to stay informed and alert, especially if your travel plans include eastern Poland.
Beyond geopolitical concerns, travellers face the typical urban challenges found in many European destinations. Petty theft remains the most common issue affecting tourists in Polish cities. Pickpockets and bag snatchers frequently target crowded transportation hubs, including Warsaw’s Central Station and Krakow’s main train terminal. Thieves have also been known to snatch bags from vehicles stopped at traffic lights—a tactic that catches distracted drivers off guard.
## Preparing for Your Polish Adventure
Smart preparation goes beyond booking flights and hotels. For Ottawa travellers, a pre-travel health consultation should be an essential part of your checklist. While Poland is a modern European nation with good healthcare infrastructure, ensuring you’re up-to-date on routine vaccinations is crucial. Depending on your itinerary and activities, your travel health provider may recommend vaccines for hepatitis A and B, as well as tick-borne encephalitis if you’re planning hiking or camping in rural areas during warmer months.
A travel health professional can also help you assemble an appropriate medical kit, discuss travel insurance options, and provide guidance on accessing healthcare abroad if needed. They’ll review any prescription medications you take regularly and ensure you have sufficient supplies, plus documentation for border crossings.
On the ground in Poland, follow standard security practices: keep valuables secure and out of sight, use hotel safes, stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas, and monitor local news sources. If travelling near the Ukrainian border, pay extra attention to local authority instructions and remain flexible with your plans.
Travelling to Poland? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.