Driving in Canada

[Qweaver]

Do I need to make any special insurance changes to be legal in Canada?  We will be in Canada at least a week, no visa required?  OK to carry in alcoholic drinks and food items?

[beenthere]

Might be a good question to put to your Insurance agent about coverage in CA.  Seems if customs has any question that your insurance receipts should prove you are covered.

[Magicman]

Talk with your insurance agent.  You will need a passport. (to get back into the USA)  There is a limit on liquor so be sure to declare it at the border.

The main thing is to remember that you are a guest in Canada and are there at their will.  Respect the Canadians and their country.   

[DonT]

You will need a passport,I know when I cross I have to produce my passport both in entering the US, and when returning to Canada.You are allowed to bring specified amounts of alcohol and Tobacco in for personal consumption.You might consider AAA/CAA in case of an emergency,its an easy 1-800 # rather than trying to find local numbers.I would not travel with firearms,especially handguns,way to much paper work.I drove to Florida last winter and I did not require any special insurances,but it might be wise to check with your insurance broker.

[turnkey]

Do I need to make any special insurance changes to be legal in Canada?  We will be in Canada at least a week, no visa required?  OK to carry in alcoholic drinks and food items?

Can't help with the insureance.  I never even checked.  Used to make a trip every year into Kamloops BC.  You can't take fruit across, probably vegetables also. Someone else mentioned leaving any weapons AND THAT INCLUDES MACE AND PEPER SPRAY at home.

I got ticket just across the border in BC for "Speedign while passing".  Seems an odd rule.  I took care of the ticket in Kamloops and the person acceting the fine asked "What idiot wrote this?".  Soo...ya takes your chances I guess.  I don't see any safe way to pass without speeding and that is legal in my state.  Of course things change and my last trip was some 15 or 20 years ago.

Harry K

[Chuck White]

Do I need to make any special insurance changes to be legal in Canada?  We will be in Canada at least a week, no visa required?  OK to carry in alcoholic drinks and food items?

If any of the alcolol has been opened, it's advisable to transport it in the trunk, not in the drivers compartment!

[SwampDonkey]

You can check with your insurance agent, but I'm pretty sure there is a Canada/US agreement on driver's insurance. We have crossed into Maine for years and never needed nothing special up until 9/11 when passports became a requirement. And it was only later that it was required to enter Canada with a passport, I think since the Afghan war. For the first few years after 9/11 they never asked at Canada customs. Bringing food is generally no trouble, unless your bringing more than 1 turkey per vehicle occupant. Which is a stupid rule, but anyhow.

[Billbob]

Your driver's license is valid here as is any license from the American states.  So is your insurance.  Just have your passport, driver's permit, vehicle registration and insurance card.  Don't bring any fruit with you (or honey bees!)  Don't bring any firearms (your visit might be longer than you anticipated! )  Come on up and enjoy yourself.  We're glad to have you!  And bring some warm weather with you!  We're a little on the short side right now!
Bill

[Hilltop366]

A passport is not required to enter Canada for a Canadian or US citizen, but it is recommended.

The guy down the road who was born and lives in Canada and has never lived in the US goes to the US several times a year, he enters the US with his US passport, then when returns to Canada shows his Canadian birth certificate and drivers licence. Its really starting to bother the US border people but they can't do much about it.
They keep asking him how he got the US passport, he replies "I applied for it"

More info from here: http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/td-dv-eng.html#_s1

Identification requirements for U. S. citizens and permanent residents

If you are a U.S. citizen, ensure you carry proof of citizenship such as a passport, birth certificate, a certificate of citizenship or naturalization, a U.S. Permanent Resident Card, or a Certificate of Indian Status along with photo identification.

For all modes of entry, we recommend you carry a valid passport for all travel abroad, including visits to Canada from the United States. A passport may be required by your airline or alternative transportation authority, as it is the only universally-accepted identification document.

Citizens and permanent residents of the United States who are members of the NEXUS or FAST programs may present their membership cards to the CBSA as proof of identity and as documents that denote citizenship, when arriving by land or marine modes only.

All visitors arriving from or transiting through the United States are encouraged to visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Web site for information concerning the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, and the requirements to enter or return to the United States.

[SwampDonkey]

We have to show our Canadian Passports here when re entering Canada and I also know they do in Ontario as I've crossed at the Saulte. I've asked them if it was required and they said it was now. How would a Canadian born and living here get a US passport? I think someone is pulling your leg. If he's using a US box office for an address, he might be in for a surprise some day.

[21incher]

Here in NY I have gotten what they call a Enhanced License that is valid in place of a passport for travel to Canada & Mexico. It costs a little more then a regular license and requires a DHS background check but is quick to get. You may want to check with your DMV to see if it is available in your state. In the past a friend of mine had a little trouble at the boarder because he had a bunch of 5 gallon containers of gas for his snowmobiles with him.

[SwampDonkey]

That's interesting because a lot of people go to Maine to fill up gas jugs for their lawn mowers and never trouble. I've learned a long time ago that every crossing has their own rules.  : :

[DonT]

I know I have to produce my passport when I cross at the Ivy Lea bridge,Johnstown, or Cornwall.Going into the states the commercial sticker in the truck window usually gets me a few additional questions.As mentioned earlier a nexus card works to  but that is normally for people who cross on a regular basis.And yep  one turkey.

[DaleK]

There are some foods they're touchy about but you'd have to look it up.

[Bill Gaiche]

When I drove from Vancouver to Calgary and back, it seemed to me a lot like the USA. Just took a while to get use to the speedometers and the speed limit signs. Breaking any rules in another country is not going to be pretty as mentioned. You are at there mercy. Canada is a very beautiful place and a lot of friendly people. You are going to love it. bg

[Sprucegum]

If you are carrying alcohol be sure and declare it when asked. If you don't and they find it they will take it away  :(

[WDH]

There are some foods they're touchy about but you'd have to look it up.

You might have to have a Permit to bring in Grits  .

[Hilltop366]

We have to show our Canadian Passports here when re entering Canada and I also know they do in Ontario as I've crossed at the Saulte. I've asked them if it was required and they said it was now. How would a Canadian born and living here get a US passport? I think someone is pulling your leg. If he's using a US box office for an address, he might be in for a surprise some day.

From the Canadian Border Services Agency

Identification for Canada/U.S. travel

"If you are a U.S. citizen, ensure you carry proof of citizenship such as a passport, birth certificate, a certificate of citizenship or naturalization, a U.S. Permanent Resident Card, or a Certificate of Indian Status along with photo identification."

As I read it the commas mean "or"  followed by  "along with photo identification."

Please don't get me wrong, I am not trying to argue, just going by what I have read and what my neighbour has told me, He is a truck driver and has been to the US and returned at least 8 times since December. I will ask him if any thing has changed.

How would a Canadian born and living here get a US passport?
US born parents that moved here as children.

[Magicman]

Absolutely each border crossing can be completely different depending upon the agent and his quirks.  That goes for the US agents as well as the Canadian.

Don't try to carry on any "bull".  Just answer what is asked and produce what is required.  Be friendly, but leave off the small talk.

Get caught trying to enter while concealing something and you will wind up inside of the dreaded  "yellow square" and watching the entire contents of your vehicle unloaded.  They do not put it back.   :-\

[pigman]

Get caught trying to enter while concealing something and you will wind up inside of the dreaded  "yellow square" and watching the entire contents of your vehicle unloaded.  They do not put it back.   :-\

How long did it take you to put all of your stuff back in the vehicle? ;D

[DonT]

There are limits to the amount of money you can have in your possession as well.I believe it has to be under ten thousand.I am not sure about US citizens coming to Canada,but I know I am not allowed to have 10,000 with me when I cross.Found this out when I was across to Weedsport to buy a stump grinder.

[Wellmud]

My cousin went up on a fishing trip this past summer and gathered up some pine seedlings to plant in his yard, they were not very impressed with that either!

[DaleK]

Absolutely each border crossing can be completely different depending upon the agent and his quirks.  That goes for the US agents as well as the Canadian.

Don't try to carry on any "bull".  Just answer what is asked and produce what is required.  Be friendly, but leave off the small talk.

Get caught trying to enter while concealing something and you will wind up inside of the dreaded  "yellow square" and watching the entire contents of your vehicle unloaded.  They do not put it back.   :-\

Sometimes including parts of the car. Friend had a passenger make a joke about smuggling at the crossing. They kindly let them borrow some tools to put the seats back in the car and a bag for the upholstery.

[Magicman]

I didn't but I saw it being done.  What a mess.   :-\

The most smart-alec border agent that we have ever encountered was a US agent at Port Huron.   :-\

[r.man]

Apparently this is what you need to know. Not the one I was looking for but funny anyway.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJUxTwnExx0

[isawlogs]

 I have been going to Vermont for gas\fuel for a few years now and I don't have a passport and was never asked for one either going in or coming back, I do have an '' enhanced drivers licence'' . Here in Quebec its called a '' permit plus'', back ground check, it is only valied to enter the states by land or water, if I was to fly in I would need a passport for international entry, but once across I can take a flight from vermont to floridia if I wanted to.

  As far as what you can take across, it is a long list best to look it up, I know one wont get away with any saussages  : >:(, fruits, uncooked meats are high on list. Each province has there own set of rules about liquor, if I was you any opened bottle would be kept in the camper  ;) 
  Have a nice and safe trip!   The Yukon is high on my places to visite, one of these years I may have caught up enough to just saye..... GONE FISHING !!!!!!    :D

[SwampDonkey]

Marcel, I wouldn't try it here without a passport, because you may not be let into the US. I know if you explain you forgot it, they usually let you in, but no guarantee. They look at your license if they allow it. They will let us in if we are renewing our passports and use a photocopy of the old one until the new one comes in the mail. You have to send the old original back when renewing, the reason for the copy. Just so you know it for any future travels. Same with up by the Sault, Ontario-Michigan

[Qweaver]

About 10 years ago we spent 5 weeks traveling thru the canals and rivers of Canada.  The Canadian border officials came to our boats and did inspect them but they were very nice about it.  As we were interring back into the US, it was almost dark so we anchored just inside the US border by a few hundred feet to wait until morning for the customs office to be open.  A few minutes later a boat full of armed, military dressed US border guards roared up in their olive drab boat and really gave us the third degree.  They said that we were already in US waters and would have to proceed to customs immediately. 
We had already checked by phone and the customs officer had already gone home and we could check in in the morning.  After much discussion the officers finally relented and allowed us to stay there until morning.  I know they have a tough and sometimes dangerous job but these guys were just mean in their demeanor. We were just two boats full of old retired sailors and they could have done their jobs without being mean and condescending.
What a great trip that was.  Sarah cried as we finished the trip and prepared to take the boats out at Waterford, NY.  The same spot that we had put them in 5 weeks before.

[isawlogs]

 SwampDoonkey, I have gone through at Sarnia Ont. with out any problems, it is acepted at any border in Canada.  ;)  Even New Brunswick.... :D

[SwampDonkey]

They must be status cards or something. :D Where do I apply for mine? ;D

[turnkey]

We have to show our Canadian Passports here when re entering Canada and I also know they do in Ontario as I've crossed at the Saulte. I've asked them if it was required and they said it was now. How would a Canadian born and living here get a US passport? I think someone is pulling your leg. If he's using a US box office for an address, he might be in for a surprise some day.

From the Canadian Border Services Agency

Identification for Canada/U.S. travel

"If you are a U.S. citizen, ensure you carry proof of citizenship such as a passport, birth certificate, a certificate of citizenship or naturalization, a U.S. Permanent Resident Card, or a Certificate of Indian Status along with photo identification."

As I read it the commas mean "or"  followed by  "along with photo identification."

Please don't get me wrong, I am not trying to argue, just going by what I have read and what my neighbour has told me, He is a truck driver and has been to the US and returned at least 8 times since December. I will ask him if any thing has changed.

How would a Canadian born and living here get a US passport?
US born parents that moved here as children.

Or US citizens who move up there an take out Canadian citizenship (MY BIL/SIL did it)

Harry K

[walterkilo]

Or just being born in the US because the US hospital is closer...
Where my land is, most everyone has both nationalities...

Dominik

[SwampDonkey]

My uncle was dual citizen, born in Fort Fairfield, Maine. He needed a Canadian passport like anyone else. Something doesn't wash.  ;D

[coxy]

they don't like you brining in potatoes  trust me  ;D

[Magicman]

I just got a book today:

Travelers Guide to Alaskan Camping
(Alaskan and Yukon Camping with RV or Tent)

by Mike & Terri Church

There is a lot more in it than campground information.  It covers many of the items that have been discussed here plus much, much more.

I would highly recommend it for anyone traveling to Alaska.  Of course the Milepost is the traveler's bible. 

[DonT]

Did you tour the Rideau canal when you where on your boat tour?  I live about 500yds from ther river. Just a reminder when in Canada if you feel your vehicle pulling to one side of the road or the other it means you are nearing a Tim Hortons many locals can not pass one without stopping for coffee.

[SwampDonkey]

Don, I got a kick one time when hearing they set up a mobile Tim's over in Afghanistan for Canadian troops stationed there. The barracks was near or shared with US troops. And one of the fellows in the US camp said those Canadians will buy that coffee over there at Tim's and it's all free right here for the taking. I would have went to the US mess hall for my coffee. That's just because I'm an old miser. But it sure is unbelievable the lineups around them places and even some blocking traffic illegally for the swill. :D

[thecfarm]

Dunkin donuts here in the states. Lots of DD in gas staions now. I myself am to cheap to pay $2-3-4 for a coffee. Be it flavored or some other strange word. The few times I have brought it,I get a coupon in the mail. I am the odd one,just black. Non of that fancy stuff for me.

[SwampDonkey]

They have Tim's in Maine to Cfarm, but they are not as popular as your DD's. There has always been a DD in Presque Isle for as long as I can remember. Tim's moved in there about 12 years ago. But as I said I don't buy prepared coffee. If I don't make it, I don't have it. ;D

[Brucer]

The enhanced driver's license was the brainchild of a group of Canadian provincial Premiers and the Governers of US border states. These licenses have to meet additional federal standards. I don't know if all the states have them now or not.

In theory Americans don't need a passport to get into Canada. However, they do need to have one to get back into the US. Canadian border agents have the authority to refuse entry to anyone who they believe might not be able to return to the US. So, no, you don't officially need one to get into Canada, but your probably need one to convince the Canadian border agents that you don't plan to stay forever ;D

The enhanced drivers license is equivalent to the passport for going either way, as long as it is at a land or ferry crossing.

The rule on liquour used to be a maximum of 40 ounces (or the metric equivalent). That's about 1-1/2 26 ounce bottles. I have watched a Canadian border agent pour liquour down the drain, hold the bottle up to eyeball the level, and pour a little more until the level was about right.

Crossing the border is not a big deal for most folks. We want your tourist dollars, and you want ours. Expect some questions -- where were you born, where are you going, what's the purpose of your visit. Not a big deal. The questions vary depending on who's in the vehicle. Don't lie -- if you get caught out, you will probably get turned away.

Driving up here is pretty much the same as in the US. Minor differences from Province to Province, just as there are from State to State. We're so close to the border right here that we see a steady stream of US vehicles.

For auto insurance you have to have valid liability insurance. Check with your insurance provider to make sure they cover travel in Canada -- they probably will, but check anyway.

Check your health insurance! Make sure you understand the terms of coverage. Usually if you get sick or injured your provider will want to get you back into the US for treatment ASAP. It doesn't matter that the treatment in Canada would be just as good, and a whole lot cheaper. They want you back and won't cover you if you get more than emergency care in Canada.

[thecfarm]

Swampdonkey,I use to pass a Tim 4 days a week on the way to work. Long line at DD drive through,MIGHT have 2 cars at Tim's. I did stop at the Tim's one early morning going to work. That was about 2 am. DD was closed. The DD we have in the little town where I grew up will have 2-3 cars just about everytime I drove by.Kinda like Burger King and McDonalds that I drive by. McDonalds is doing a thriving business and Burger is just about empty.

[Qweaver]

Did you tour the Rideau canal when you where on your boat tour?  I live about 500yds from ther river.

We launched our sailboats in Waterford, NY and entered Lake Ontario at Oswego, spend a week in the Thousand Islands area, then thru the Rideau to Ottawa, down the Ottawa River to Montreal, The St Lawrence to the Richelieu and finally thru Lake Champlain back to Waterford.  What a wonderful time we had!  5 weeks and many locks.  We needed more time and had to hurry at the end.  We will do the Trent-Severn at some point.  Maybe after the Alaska trip.

[DonT]

That's a nice trip,the  1000 islands are very nice,I work in that area and all along the Rideau.My parents have a piece of property that has been in the family since before they flooded the river.It went from one deed to two deeds each in a different county.I have lived most of my life on the river and never been through a lock.