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# System prepended metadata

title: Plan Travel

---

---
date: "2019-05-13"
title: "Plan Travel"
lead: "Most government travel begins by getting an approval.  This section will provide guidance on putting together a trip estimate for approval and key information to help you plan your trip."
---
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### 1. Get preliminary approval

You will need preliminary approval from your Supervisor before you can book your trip.  To get this approval you must create and submit a *Travel Estimate* and have your supervisor approve it.

Our **Trip Estimator** will help you create an estimate and send it to your supervisor.

**Note:** Allow 3-4 weeks for your Supervisor to approve your estimate.  For urgent travel, contact your Supervisor directly and inform themt when you're submitting your estimate for approval.</div>
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            <p class="text-center"><a href="https://gc-travel-estimator.herokuapp.com/"  class="btn btn-primary my-4 px-4" target="_blank">Trip Estimator</a></p>
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### 2. Get things ready

Before you can book your trip, make sure you have the following items ready:

1. Valid personal identification (e.g. passort, drivers licence)
2. Credit card
3. Health card

**Would you prefer to pay using a government credit card?**

​
You can apply for an *Individual Designated Travel Card (ITDC)*, commonly referred to as a Government Card.  ITDC offers a variety of perks from insurance to extending your interest free payment window.  To find out more about what an IDTC can do for you, please visit the [*IDTC knowledge base page*](/en/knowledgebase/idtc).
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**Tip:** schedule up to 6 weeks in advance if signing up for these cards in order to receive them in time to travel.
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### FAQ

**1. How should I choose between transportation options?**

The Government of Canada mandates that you take the most economical means of travel. Depending on your destination and distance to travel, you may choose between air, rail, or car for your trip. 

**2. Can I use my own vehicle for business travel?**

Yes.  Our [*Trip Estimator*](https://gc-travel-estimator.herokuapp.com/) will help you calculate the estimated amount you can expense based on the estimated kilometers you will travel.

**3. Can I stay at an Airbnb instead of a hotel?**

Yes.  Our [*Trip Estimator*](https://gc-travel-estimator.herokuapp.com/) will help you calculate the estimated amount you can expense based on existing city limit rates.</div>
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    <a href="/en/book" class="btn btn-outline-primary my-4 px-4">Continue to Book</a>
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