Tips for Traveling from the U.S. to Canada

Oh, Canada! With the U.S. and Canada sharing a border, citizens of both countries can easily enjoy international vacations. Americans can experience the breathtaking sights and outdoor activities that Canada has to offer. Canadians, in turn, can travel through the diverse U.S. countryside.

There are important rules and regulations to keep in mind as you move from country to country. To make your trip easier, we've compiled a list of helpful tips for traveling from the U.S. to Canada.

This post focuses on requirements that U.S. citizens need to be aware of when traveling to Canada. If you're a Canadian citizen returning from your winter retreat, visit the Canadian Snowbird Association website for some great tips!

Tips for Traveling to Canada

Bring your passport

All U.S. citizens must carry proof of citizenship to cross the border. This could be a passport, original birth certificate, or certificate of citizenship. If you are a member of the NEXUS program, your membership card will do the trick.

Additionally, some states that border Canada, like Michigan, offer an enhanced driver's license acceptable for land and sea travel to Canada.

Traveling with pets

You can easily bring pets into Canada if they are accompanied by a rabies vaccination certificate. Dogs less than three months old do not require certification. Keep in mind that proof of the dog's age must be provided upon request.

It's also a good idea to make sure that your pet is up to date on all vaccinations and shots. To avoid illness, ask your veterinarian which vaccinations they recommend when traveling to Canada.

Driving in Canada

While your U.S. driver's license is valid in Canada, you'll want to know these things about driving in Canada.

• Ensure that your RV and auto insurance policy covers you in Canada. You should ask your insurance agent for a Non-Resident Inter-Provincial Motor Vehicle Liability Insurance Card. This verifies that you meet Canada's minimum insurance requirements.
• Familiarize yourself with the metric system. Speed limits in Canada are posted in kilometers, not miles. Some vehicles have km/h markings in a smaller font on their speedometers. Check to see if your vehicle offers this.
• During the colder months, Canada can experience severe winter weather conditions. Before you depart, complete a routine check on your RV or car to ensure it is in good working order. Also ensure that you have a winter driving kit on board.

Traveling with minors

Part of a border service officer's job is to watch for missing children. As such, you may be asked detailed questions about any minors traveling with you. For parents who share custody of their children, ensure you have a copy of your legal custody documents.

Health insurance

Check with your health care provider to ensure that you have international coverage. If not, purchase travel health insurance coverage before you start your journey.

Declaring food

While traveling into Canada, you will be asked to declare any food that you are bringing over, as some restrictions do apply. You'll also need to declare any Canadian food when traveling back to the U.S.

U.S. dollar system

Many businesses in Canada will only accept Canadian Currency, so you'll want to exchange some money before your trip. Keep in mind that current exchange rates can affect the purchasing power of your dollar.

Roaming charges

Let your wireless carrier know that you are heading out of the country so that you can create a voice/text/data package for your international trip. If you don't have coverage in Canada and are planning to use your cell phone, you'll want a dedicated plan to avoid steep roaming fees.  

With these tips in mind, you can plan your Canadian adventure with peace of mind. The real question is, where are you going to go?

You could camp on the coast of Lake Erie at Sherkston Shores RV Resort, where a waterpark, high ropes course, and miniature golf are just a taste of the fun. Or vacation in a quiet countryside setting at Willowood RV Resort, which is only 20 minutes away from big city fun in Windsor and Detroit. Start planning your Ontario vacation today!

Do you love Ontario as much as we do? Help others out in their travels to Canada by sharing this post on social media!  

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