Some of you have crossed between the US and Canada, some have not. We realize it can be nerve-wracking especially if you don't know what to expect.  The following will help you be prepared.

Make sure your Passport is not going to expire in the next 6 months.

Crossing into Canada
What documents do I need to get into Canada? Click on this link and complete the questions for additional info on traveling into Canada go to Visit Canada - Canada.ca

Here are a few simple tips to make things easier at the border crossing for both US & Canada.
  • When you arrive follow the directional signs and traffic lights. RVs go thru the same checkpoints as passenger vehicles. Do not go through the commercial truck lanes unless instructed to do so, the agents frown on this.
  • The agents are there to do a job not to chat with you, they have heard it all. Be friendly but keep your answers short.
  • When you pull up to the agent, shut your engine off. Have your hats and sunglasses off. Have IDs and passports/cards ready. Have vehicles registration handy (I don't recall ever being asked, but it doesn't hurt). Have your pet's paperwork ready, they probably won't ask but be prepared. Have the license numbers of your vehicles written down, they will ask for the numbers; they don't need the paper, just the numbers. 

Typical questions and answers crossing into Canada:
  • How long will you be in Canada?
    • Response - Approximately two weeks. Traveling thru on our way to vacation in Alaska.
  • Where are you staying in Canada?
    • Response - Give them the name of the first Campground and town you are staying at.
  • Any alcohol? Note you are allowed per person:
    • 2 - 750ml bottles of wine, OR
    • 1 - 1.14l (standard bottle) of hard liquor, OR
    • 1 - case of beer (24 cans)
  • Any firearms?
    • Firearms are not allowed unless you take several months to complete the permit process.
  • Any foods, produce, meat, etc.?
  • Any cash?
    • You are allowed to bring into Canada the equivalent of $10,000 Canadian per person. 
They may probe with other questions. They are just doing their job, it is not personal. Keep the answers short and on point. 

Crossing into the US
You will need your Passport for the Agent and paperwork for your Pet traveling with you. They will ask similar questions as the Canada agents did (see list above) like Citizenship, nature of your trip, do you have any merchandise to declare that you bought in Canada, and are you bringing any alcohol, fruits, vegetables, plants, cut flowers, meat, animal products, live animals, how much cash, and any guns.  

To understand what you cannot bring into the US check out the info at Traveling into the United States from Canada at Land Borders | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Prohibited and Restricted Items | U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Your TrekMaster will share other helpful insight about a smooth border crossing.