# Updated U.S. Travel Advisory: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know Before Crossing the Border
Planning a shopping trip to Watertown, a summer road trip to Florida, or attending a FIFA World Cup match south of the border? Ottawa travellers should be aware that Canada has updated its travel advisory for the United States as of April 14, 2026. While the risk remains at **Level 1 — Take Normal Security Precautions**—the lowest advisory level—understanding what’s changed and what precautions to take can help ensure your trip goes smoothly.
## What Changed in the Latest Advisory
The most recent update removed a flood watch warning for Hawaii, signaling improved conditions in that region. The United States maintains its Level 1 status, meaning Canadian travellers should exercise the same precautions they would at home. However, “normal precautions” doesn’t mean letting your guard down entirely—especially with major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026™ bringing increased crowds and activity to host cities across the U.S. from June 11 to July 19.
## Safety Considerations for Canadian Visitors
Petty crime remains the primary concern for tourists, particularly in busy urban centers and popular tourist destinations. Pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins target visitors in parking lots and tourist areas. Always secure valuables, never leave bags visible in rental cars, and keep travel documents on your person.
For those driving to southern states, the advisory notes heightened criminal activity near the U.S.-Mexico border in California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas due to drug trafficking. Stick to official border crossings and avoid nighttime travel in these regions.
Violent crime, while rarely affecting tourists, occurs more frequently in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, particularly after dark. Research your destinations beforehand and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
## Prepare Your Health Before You Travel
Beyond security awareness, Ottawa travellers should remember that proper health preparation is essential for any international trip—even to familiar destinations like the United States. Different regions present varying health risks, from tick-borne illnesses in the Northeast to mosquito-borne diseases in southern states.
A pre-travel health consultation helps identify specific risks based on your itinerary, season, and planned activities. Routine vaccinations should be current, and depending on your destination and activities, additional vaccines like hepatitis A or B might be recommended. Travel health professionals can also advise on travel medical insurance, prescription medications for the trip, and assembling an appropriate first-aid kit.
Don’t wait until the last minute—some vaccines require multiple doses over several weeks for full protection, and insurance arrangements take time to finalize properly.
Travelling to United States? 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.