It's time for our relatively long vacation (two weeks) and this year we head North to Canada. In the wake of 9/11, foreign and even domestic travel has become a constantly changing dynamic and timely information is key.
Are there any pieces of advise or suggestions to be had from our fellow Streamers as we venture across the border Safari in tow.
Don't expect to cross over with chicken, eggs, beef, or dogfood...due to the Avian Flu and Mad Cow Disease issues. Expect delays, and keep smiling. Have a wonderful and safe 2 wks. If you get our direction, stop by. We have courtesy parking!
Larry and Lou in Ohio
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CP: W/30 amp/waste dump/WIFI & Room for 2-3 units; PM us if you are headed our direction!
AIR#2695
Have a great time up here, it's totally different than the States. Remember 100pkh is about 60mph, Tim Horton's is a national institution and can be found everywhere (coffee shop), fuel costs more and is in litres (1 usg is 3.78L) and some places even have running water!
It's not so much driving north that you have to worry about food related products - it will be driving back south that beef, chicken and eggs will give you some grief. Regardless which way you are travelling we have always made a practice of going across with a pretty much empty fridge - then stocking up on the other side. The last 3 times we have crossed from north to south we have been interviewed and had a light search conducted for food products - the trailer has also been X-rayed twice. None of these have been a big deal - but we do know that if we had had any banned food products they would have been taken.
Travelling both ways identification that we had to show has been driver's licence and birth certificate - we also carry an other picture ID but have never been asked for it.
We don't have pets but I believe that those who do should have current vaccination and health records.
Neither do we have firearms - not sure what is required - but it's probably a mighty good idea to find out in advance directly from customs/immigration on both sides.
We cross a fair bit - and have never had problems (lost some beef heading south a couple of years ago - but I should have known better) - might have been held up a bit on a busy day - but always found staff to be courteous and professional - they did their job - we had nothing to hide - then we were on our way.
Enjoy your trip.
Jay
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Bambi - 2002 (The Toaster)
Pathfinder - 2003 (The Buggy)
We are currently in Prince Edward Island and come up every year, since '69. Since retirement we spend alll summer here. The info given already is right on. Only thing we would add is to carry a birth certificate (or passport if you have one) in case of an emergency where you might have to fly out of Canada.
Where are your travels taking you?
GreggH
We just returned from Nova Scotia , didn't have any problem at the border either way . Passport is best but birth cert. will do . Don't give vague answers to the Questions , and answer only the questions . Don't forget to get a Canadian card from your auto insurance carrier. Fill up just before you go into Canada . Open all the curtains so they can look in the trailer easily. People really appreciate if you pull over if you are holding up traffic , when it's safe . The question about produce and meats seemed to be phrased " other than what's in your frig". I think they are more interested in things that you are bringing to leave in Canada , like a bag of Florida oranges for a friend.
Not sure where in Canada you're heading , I can say that every one we met in the Maritime Provinces were friendly and helpfull . Have a great trip.
Hey hey silver campers!!
Sounds like a lot of fun. Have a safe and happy journey! I heard from my cousins that coming back into the US through NY was easier than coming back through Detroit. They often drive from MI through Canada to get to NY and back. I mean easier by the way they were treated by our own (US)government's employees. Be sure to post some vacation photos! Looking forward to reading about your experiences!
Best wishes!
__________________ Steph in MI Air# 6996- I Hockeytown USA!!
All the advice is good, but a couple clarifications..
1. Often the easiest and least frustrating entrances are at smaller portals rather than major interstate multi-lane places... Patience and a smile are required both ways...
2. Canadians really won't permit handguns in, and any firearm is a hassle.. Without unleashing NRA dialogue, it is just easier to avoid situation. Canadian immigration folks may well search trailer and vehicle to look if at all suspicious...
3. Insurance and registration and papers for pet and passports are all important. Lack of immunization for pet could mean turn-back. Having copies of drug prescriptions could also help if you have emergency there.
4. US Customs used to just look in window of car, but last two arrivals they asked to enter and search trailer (perhaps looking for terrorists hiding under gaucho..). Expect trailer to be entered, and be prepared... Fridge not opened..
5. Not sure where you're headed, but Ferries won't permit carrying of portable gas containers (like for generator..) We've left a few behind traveling through San Juans and out to Vancouver Island...
6. Get good directories of commercial and provincial parks before you leave. We found great places to stay, and mostly reasonable in BC and Alberta/Rockies areas...
John McG
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Condoluminum
In Theory, there's no difference between Theory and Practice, but in Practice, there is usually a difference...
Good advice above! I'll have to save the thread for my own reminders... John McG? By gas containers, I assume you mean gasoline. Right? Hadn't even thought of that one but it makes sense. No problem on LP I would assume?
Canada does not allow any personal defense or bear repellent sprays.
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Have a great trip!
Be sure to post some vacation photos! Looking forward to reading about your experiences!
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