Did you catch the "misinformation" in this video? If you take away anything from this video, please be sure to research for yourself before crossing the border on either side - laws constantly change and there is a TON of bad information on TH-cam! Enjoy our content and want to support our channel? Use our Amazon affiliate link - costs you nothing and helps offset the costs of maintaining our channel 😀 www.amazon.com/shop/liferedesigned
We've crossed the US/Canadian border many times, starting out in just a car, then a car plus travel trailer, and now in a Class A coach, and we've never had a problem, even traveling with four dogs. Like you mentioned, know the rules, have your documentation ready, and be prepared to answer questions about why you're crossing the border, where you're headed, and how long you'll be there. Also, as you mentioned, the border security officers do take their jobs very seriously (which is much appreciated!). They don't take kindly to joking and kidding around. Be respectful, be honest, do what they tell you, and you'll be fine.
so because they haven't made you life hell, they are at clowns at the border? it is way easier to get into the states than to come back into canada. but you are a good obedient little serf.
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do you own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information! Thank you for helping us prove that point! Appreciate you
Pets without papers are a no no, as my parents found out, and to make it worse, it wasn't an issue going into Canada, but getting back into the US with the dog they had taken out earlier that morning. In my experience, the US guards are worse to deal with than the Canadians, mainly just being dicks and acting like we were bothering them.
Yep. Starting Aug 01, dogs must have a Microchip, be at least 6 months of age, import form, be healthy, have up to date shots/paperwork to be permitted entry or re-entry.
💯 percent agree with your comment about the US border agents. The last time I crossed back into the US I was asked if I had any fruits or veggies. I answered I did not. He asked 3 times and got the same answer. He reached through the window into the cooler we had been using for trash and found one grape. When he and his buddy walked away after waving me through I overheard him say “well, we got those two old ladies going “ and laughed.
@sstoner911 I would assume you would only be able to do that to take it to a competitive shooting event. Restricted firearms in Canada require a authorization to transport and that is only granted to go from your home to a gun club along a predetermined route. I think you need an att to take it to a Smith or a gun store.
I live in the Detroit area and have found that getting back into to the U.S. is more of a hassle than going to Canada. I’m thinking “I’ve been a U.S. citizen longer than you’ve been in existence.” I understand that the border patrol agents have a very important job but it’s kind of insulting. We’re just trying to go home.
You are right about that, I'm a Canadian and coming home they drill you about so many things. I think they are so concerned that we will buy more stuff than we are allowed to.
@@lovesweetpeas47 I used to love being able to say that, while US agents are armed, CDN Border people have a far more fearsome weapon . . . cash registers! Unfortunately that joke was ruined several years ago when our border agents were granted the authority to carry a sidearm.
I haven't crossed into the states since 1991, I just can't stand how they treat everyone like there some kind of monster. I still fly but never go anymore in my car or RV.
I'm an older woman who loves to travel in Canada, I just go where the day takes me. I've never had a problem going over, I checked what I could bring, and it's fine. But getting back in the States, aiming guns at me, taking me into the office, going through my things.....it's a vacation, that's all. I even kept a book for them, day by day of where I was....10 days, sometimes hard to remember. It was due to the fact I was alone.....I'm sorry, no husband..
I just came back from Nova Scotia. Been over the border numerous times.Never had a problem, but this last time coming back to the U.S. the young kid agent wanted to come in my rv, looked around, checked the bathroom, but never looked in the frig or under my bed which is the biggest storage area? Strange. Asked him if he would like to wash the few dishes I had in the sink...he did t have much of a sense of humor.😂 NO problems. Happy to know both the U.S. and our fantastic neighbor to the north are keeping us safe.
Things have probably changed, but last time I checked persons are prohibited entry into Canada if they have been convicted of any crime which is a felony either in their own locale or in Canada, and many alcohol driving violations in the USA are the Canadian equal of a felony there. A person must undergo (search phrase ahead!) "Criminal Rehabilitation to Enter Canada." That means lots of forms, weeks or months of lead time, paying US$$$$ to Canada, and meeting any other requirements they may set. You don't want to show up at the border crossing without taking care of these matters in advance.
@@raygunsforronnie847It’s not quite that cut and dried. If the UScrime you were convicted of is not a crime in Canada (eg simple possession of a small amount of pot), minor felonies may have a form of sunset clause, or if the record was expunged, you have a good chance of a pass. But before you rely on that ,make damn sure you have read the Canadian Government guidance on the subject and follow the instructions exactly. It’s not terribly expensive but the legal advice may be Martha Stewart once ran afoul of this, and of this moment Trump himself cannot cross the border. If he wins his appeal, it no longer matters, and f he becomes president again, the Minister may give him an exemption (as the law allows)
Learned the hard way that pepper spray was illegal quite a few years back. The agent listed off a bunch of items and my girlfriend said "yeah I think I have some pepper spray somewhere". Boom, into the parking lane, it was late, it was a spur the moment trip for a mini-vacation to Winnipeg, we had money but no solid destination other than "whatever hotel or campground is around." Needless to say, we found the spray and donated it, detained for like 5 hours of questioning, then they finally let us through. Kind of a comical story now thinking back on it ;) 10/10 would do it again, minus the pepper spray part.
THANK YOU! As a Canadian, living about 10 miles from the border, and crossing frequently, I have become increasingly annoyed by the uninformed nonsense put out by so many stupid people on TH-cam. Before retirement my company frequently assigned me to work in their U.S. office, which required daily border crossings for extended periods of time. Of course I required the proper paperwork and permits from the U.S. government. In all of my border crossings over a fifty year period, the one thing I have learned in dealing with border agents on both sides, is that I am dealing with a human being who has the same ups and downs in their life as the rest of us. Of coufse I have had both good and bad experiences in that time. I've found the best approach is to be prepared and honest. Do not try to engage in humour or conversation, just answer the question. And for the benefit of those following some TH-camr advice on driving to Alaska-- No, there are very few RV dealers in Northern British Columbia, because there are very few people!
I'm Canadian. Going through the border I once witnessed a poor American in a huge motor home who thought he could bring his whole liquor collection into Canada. While he would have had the option of turning around and returning to the States he chose to enter Canada and I saw the agents carrying box after box of confiscated booze from his ride.
Totally agree. Years ago I was inspected because I had a bottle of iced tea and the car was trashed to look for contraband but never had a problem with my RV.
Last Summer we took our motorhome to Alaska and when the border patrol guard (Montana crossing)asked how long we were going to be in Canada my wife chimed in " Four days " and I told the agent that she's mistaken it will be two weeks. My wife proceeded to argue with me and he told us to go park and go into the building. I finally got her to understand that aside from the five days in Banff and Jasper parks,we had to go through the Yukon territory. When we got up to the agent there and he told us to go get in the inspection line. A very nice gal helped us and sent us on our way after an hour. The moral of the story is, get your stories straight or if you have no sense of time distance and space, allow which ever partner has the best ability in this field. If neither of you can do this then sit down ahead of time and figure it out. Heading to the Canadian Maritime provinces from SoCal. Wish us(me😂) luck.
@@niemi5858 No. The weather didn't start getting cold until we were headed back to the U.S. and even then it was only at night which scared me a little because I put in lithium batteries before we left and I hadn't installed the heat pads for low temperature protection.
The main thing ai found as one who has travelled extensively in the US for professional reasons, is not have an attitude.Answer questions politely, and I’ve never had a problem.A sense of humour doesn’t hurt.
Good information and very honest. Thank you both. If you are an ass at the border they can and will take your vehicle apart and when they don't find anything they will say have a good day and leave you to the pile of parts to reassemble so don't play games with either border or you will regret it. I'm a Canadian and cross a lot and never had an issue because I know the laws and rules and I don't have anything to hide.
I was a truck driver an crossed the Canadian border many times, for me my load paperwork had to be sent ahead of time, as long as it was correct I never had a problem if it wasn't I had to take a walk , NOW getting back in to the U. S . I GOT WORKED OVER , x rayed , twice once in the truck , you have to declare What ever you buy in Canada when you come back and you will want to exchange your your money when you cross into Canada at the border , it gets confusing if you don't
As Canadians, we were crossing into Washington from BC a couple weeks ago with our RV and got searched for the first time ever. They were searching all RVs for fruit, raw chicken and eggs!! When returning to Canada a couple days ago we breezed right on through with very few questions!
I went the other way once. Came from Canada and was driving to Disneyland. I was worried about two things - my kids Dad had passed away so I obviously didnt have his written permission to bring them into the U.S. I was remarried and was bringing them across with another man. I had ALL of the documentation that i could fathom. His death certificate, our marrige certificate, his obituary, our receipt from our widows and orphans benefits... The U.S. customs officer just opened the sliding door to the van and said to the kids "are they forcing you to go to Disneyland?" The kids laughed, said no, and he closed the door and waved us on. Never asked for anything! Which saved me from my second worry - my oldest had just turned 18 the week before and realizd as we approached the border that she HAD to have her drivers lisence on her. She didnt - we faced an almost five hour drive back home to get it if denied. I flew to San Diego once and the U.S. Border agent had a long chat with me about eating at Souplantation that he initiated. 😂
While we have not yet traveled to Canada with our RV I have driven across the border numerous times in Michigan, Vermont, and Washington and we agree it is not as "scary" and intimidating as some of the thumbnails would lead you to believe. As always you guys are shouting the truth, love it.
I’ve only driven to Canada once (only time I’ve been there), my wife and I had no problems and were at the guard station only a minute or 2. Coming back into America we were delayed and our car was searched.
As a Canadian, I've had more challenges crossing back into my own country, Canada, than I've ever had getting into the States. Things like pulling into the bilingual French spoken here lane when I don't speak French inspite of my French last name. Or trying to convince an agent that even though I was in Michigan overnight, I didn't buy anything and was not trying to smuggle something in.
@@liferedesignedwhen you’re returning home you’re expected to be bringing souvenirs or something special possibly above your allowance. Imagine what it’s like for woman returning from Paris with no perfume or clothing to declare. That is often suspicious as we found out. But my wife is doesn’t like perfume, wears no jewelry, and is happy with blue jeans and a T-shirt. We explained that all we were bringing home was memories and pictures we must have been believed because we weren’t interrogated.
Well you're bringing things back when you return so expect you have things to declare. You're lucky the agent didn't send you to secondary to waste an hour or two of your life especially for an overnighter which could be suspicious for drug/human smuggling.
Guys i am new Zealander who lives in Australia. When i fly into NZ i might as well fly naked get searched every time. That is mainly due to i am there for fishing and hunting and i own a farm in Australia. Always get though in the end and it does make trip exciting
I'm pretty sure the rule on cigarettes is 200 cigarettes not packs of cigarettes (one carton of 8 packs). 200 packs of smokes is 25 cartons of 8. The border guards make take issue with that amount. Also good information for US smokers- cigarettes are expensive in Canada. Bring as many as your comfortable carrying. Canadian brands are different than American ones and generally Canadian cigarettes are milder flavoured than American. You may not like them as much as your old favourites.
Thank you for helping us prove our point made in the video that you should NEVER get your information on border crossings from TH-cam! We also addressed this in the pinned comment.
We live a hundred miles from the border, have been to Canada often (but only once with an RV for Expo '86), and never had a problem in either direction. Never been diverted to secondary. Quick, simple, direct answers delivered politely without delay seem to me to be the key.
I never heard of the high beam situation before this, that is such priceless information to know, thank you as I will never forget that you mentioned this fact. Keeping your mouth and your vehicle clean while crossing will be the difference of whether you are expedited through quickly without hassles. If you are smart with them , even a little bit, it will get you turned around in a hurry. Border Patrol, will not play games with you, play games and your not getting in, its that simple. Learn to play by the rules and travelling into another country, will be a much smoother and less stressful process for everyone involved. Thanks so much for this valuable info and tips.
great information as I plan to visit Canada for the first time in over 20 years. I recall a random re-entry question on one visit 25 years ago, which was "how was the weather?" because the border patrol knows how the weather was where you claim to have visited. I was lucky, it snowed (in July) during our trip.
One time when crossing the border the inspector wanted to inspect our RV and after he was through he said our unit was one of the cleanest units he ever inspected Lol 😅
In some cases, depending on the border guard. If your vehicle, RV is too clean. They could see it as someone trying to hide something. Always be ready and make time to go in secondary search regardless.
Don’t bring Cuban Cigars or Kinder Surprise Eggs back into the US from Canada. I’ve been told that the fine for each Kinder Surprise is $2,500 for each one.
@@Harsesis1 They are different. We used to live in Germany and loved the Kinder Eggs. We got back to the U.S.A. and the German kinder eggs are illegal here because of the way they are packaged. The food has to be separate from the prize in the U.S.A., so the food is on one side and the toy on the other. In Germany, and I'm guessing Canada as well, the prize is inside a container surrounded by a chocolate hollow egg. The chocolate and prizes are much better with the Kinder Eggs outside of the U.S.A., so people want to bring them into the country. Funny how such a little thing can wind up being such a big thing.
True but is more complex than that. You are required to declare, all vegetables, fruits, meats and home made preparation. They will generally let you go with unpacked food that was cleaned and prepared. Think about fruits outside of their original packages. As mentionned in their videos, leafly vegetables are usually not allowed due to E. coli and other bacterias propagation risks. Time to time their is also restrictions on fresh meats for similar reasons. For several years Canadian beef was banned to enter in the States but not the last time we went by.
I watched a few of your videos and now I subscribed. I really like your content. My husband and I are nearing retirement and have talked about selling everything and hitting the road when that happens, so I'm researching things now. If it happens, we want to go to Canada as well. I read through all the comments, and I'm surprised at the attitudes a few people have. It sounds to me like the border crossing folks are doing a great job, even if it's inconvenient to Rv'ers at times. Great advice about doing your research and just letting them do their job, even if you wind up with a true jerk at the border. It is also good to know that rules can change, so finding out the current rules when you do travel is a smart thing to do, especially since we will probably have our two little chihuahuas with us. Happy camping!
Yeah people have opinions about everything lol, Border Officers are just trying to protect their country's citizens. they are not nor should they be expected to be customer service reps :)
200 cigarettes NOT 200 packs. NO food that we grow here, NO GUNS, MACE, HUGE KNIVES, SWORDS ETC., NO STRANGER ANIMALS W/O papers. First time I realized I could not bring certain food was in United States after a cruise in Mexico. No tropical fruit in January!! Thanks for the report!
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do you own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information! Thank you for helping us prove that point! Appreciate you
One error you mentioned, 200 packs of cigarettes. It's 200 cigarettes not packs it's a huge difference. Just so you know. We cross regular and have no issues going back and forth.
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do your OWN research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information! Thank you for helping us prove that point!😀
Excellent Video and I almost died when I heard 200 cartons....lol. I lived right on the bordah as some call it in Maine. As a Canadian living in New Brunswick and going back and forth across sometimes daily, I was told by agents on both sides answer only what they ask you. There were times coming back into Canada where I had groceries in my back seat in clear view and they asked the value and made sure it was eligible to bring back and then away I went. Things got a bit different after 911 but overall they're doing their job to protect each side and just tell them what you have when asked. The alcohol limit for a Canadian is supposed to be 1.14 liters per person so 2x750 ml would put you over but most times they're reasonable. Drink half of one the day before....lol....keep up the great videos.
lol, it actually is 200 individual cigarettes not packs. We left that in the video and addressed it in the pinned comment to prove a point. NEVER trust TH-cam and always do your own research before crossing :)
Only times having trouble was coming back into US never going to Canada. Use to go to races outside of Toronto and would arrive at border to Vermont in the middle of the night very quite ao agents were board so they would send us to secondary because nothing else to do. We also use to race around Montreal and had to have an itemized list of every thing we brought in so they could check that we were bring every thing back. Some racers would sell items to canadian racers or buy from them so customs wanted there cut of taxes.
2 more tips I’d add based on an unfortunate experience: avoid carrying any extra licence plates in your vehicle when you cross the border, and ensure you have ALL your documentation if the vehicle isn’t in your name. My ex once drove an old SUV he’d had for years into customs, forgetting that technically it was a fleet vehicle owned by his friend’s company, who he didn’t work for or live anywhere near (they asked). AND we happened to have plates for a trailer and for another car visible in the cargo area. We were completely innocent and I actually didn’t know the truck wasn’t in his name 😅 but in hindsight we were dumb as rocks to not think all that through, and it took us an hour to sort things out with some understandably suspicious agents in the secondary search.
Crossed many times and never had a problem with our 5th wheel or other vehicles. The new rules coming into play Aug 1st 2024 for crossing into the US with pets is going to be a real pain.
@@liferedesignedRules were changed a couple of days ago . Just need to have your rabies certificate and dog import form receipt from CDC completed within 6 months of crossing.
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do you own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information! Thank you for helping us prove that point! Appreciate you
As a 60 yr old Canadian Girl, I would like to thank you both for the Best ever Review of coming into Canadian Border and it seems you both truly enjoy Visiting this Beautiful Country We do love having awesome American travelers come and experience this peaceful Country My suggestion is to Cross over at the Michigan Border into Sarina Ontario and do some site seeing either up to Grand Bend or go along High #3 past Windsor head over towards Chatham Ontario and travel the #3 highway Oh yes and when you go into the City of Sarnia go down to Point Edward by the Water and look back at the States from this Canadian side to see over on Your side yous guys fly both the American flag and the Canadian Flag more then we do over here, I love how Patriotic the States are and so Proud to Fly the Flags Thank You from Debra July 30 2024
As a Canadian living in Metro Vancouver, it's not unusual for me to cross the border to pick up a package or do some grocery shopping. As you might imagine, I don't want any complications at the border. As someone else in the comments mentioned, don't engage the officers in any added conversation or small talk. For me it's, "Yes sir, no sir, thank you sir". On both sides of the border, the officers are primarily trying to keep out "undesirables" and your job to show them that you're legal to enter, won't cause problems while you're visiting, and you plan to return in a timely fashion. If you meet these criteria, it'll be smooth sailing no matter which way you're bound.
From our experience, kitchen knives are never an issue in the correct setting. Our RV knife block is never an issue but if it was in the back seat of our truck without an RV in tow just rolling around - that may be different 😀
know the difference between metric and imperial, (speed, distance, weather, weight) and don't complain about it. and then there is the golden rule, no matter how much warning you give, its those folks who still end up getting arrested, "there is No fixing stupid.'
I cross at Cornwall, back and forth on the same day, sometimes twice. No issues at all, just answer the questions truthfully and don't try and sneak anything across- they can tell.
Some questions are to throw you off or gauge your response, but they also have access to information you might not realize. You should assume they already know the answer to the question. Our countries do exchange information, and making a false statement can be reason for you to be refused.
I live in Canada, have for about 65 years.I travel on a German passport. I used to be able to obtain a Visa Waiver form at the US customs border office. Now however I need an electronic “Esta” form along with my passport. Ahead of time. This changed about 2 years ago. Booked hotels and tours in Gettysburg, about $1,000., all forfeited, Get refused and escorted back to Canada with flashing lights, no Gettysburg for me. . I too can say “never again”. BTW it’s 200 cigarettes, not 200 packs. Meanwhile, down at the Rio Grande………..
Nice I just came across your channel and I'm definitely going to check it out. It was nice to hear that you have been in my back yard type of thing with the locations you mentioned. 👍🇨🇦
Thank You - we love traveling through Canada and are looking into logistics with Bob's company to be able to work remotely and travel throughout Canada for 6 months in 2025 or 2026.
@@liferedesigned This is a nice surprise I would have never thought that I would get a response. Seriously ty for that. Anyway I will see you in the comment section again soon 👍 🇨🇦
Bonjour, just one thing I’d like to correct is the cigarettes that you mentioned. It’s 200 cigarettes not 200 packs. 200 packs would be considered contraband. Be careful.
Thank you for helping us prove the point about NOT relying on TH-cam for border information! You are absolutely correct as we pointed out in the pinned comment. wE APPRECIATE IT!
Oh Man! I went through from ME on a classic 72 BMW R75 in the nineties. They made me start dumping out all of my bike bags to the point that it got ridiculous. I told them to put my $#!^ back in my bags and I would just spend my money in The States. The dude backed off and let me go through. Geez, I wanted to ride 1,000 miles North, not bomb or slauter people. Wow!
@@user-vl9tg2xr7q it can be a night mare, which is unnecessary as the American side always smiles, chats & wishes us a great visit. The Canadian side has me flagged as I order a lot of supplements & clothing that we cannot get up here. Even our packages are opened for the last 10 years when we receive them. We have a friend that works at the Coutts crossing (which we use a lot) who told us this is why. Enjoy your summer.
I’d think the first thing would be to not intentionally smuggle anything across any country’s border-ya never know those people who take advice from TH-camrs may have thought to! I would only add what a US border person told me, to call the border crossing you plan to use to find out the latest can & cannot bring across. When we crossed in early May (to the US) we found out eggs were a no-go due to bird flu. And rice…which got us the invite to the office 🤪. Lost about 18lbs of rice just because the baggies did not have the original place of origin label with them. Being in baggies was fine they just needed the original labels with them. Kept the empty baggies after dumping them in the TuffTote. Fruit & veggies for both sides is to prevent disease or bug infestation. That’s the same for firewood across lines. It’s even stricter here as no firewood is allowed from a different campground/area. Bugs can destroy forests. Same with cleaning your watercraft’s, floaties to boats, some invasive weed can kill lakes & waterways. On the way back to Canada we chose an obscure crossing (Laurier in Washington) where I swear the dude had numerous slow days in a row! Anyway, he asked us to put the rear passenger window down & our large dog gave him a loud hello (one bark). The dude just said big dog! He did question why if we were from a city in Alberta why we were crossing there. We were making a loop after visiting friends in Boise. I heard it as “why in the world would you drive those twisting turny roads just to get back home?”🤣. We also questioned it while driving that highway 😂. Good video & information
We crossed from International Falls to Ft. Francis by bicycle a few years ago after riding from the Gulf. The Canadian agents were are they vehicles or pedestrians? After 60 -70 miles that day and caught in some rain probably not the best looking little group. They decided inside out of the sun. Took maybe 5 minutes. Asked how far we came. I think that fay Black Duck. Before that? The Gulf, How far? About 2200 miles. How long? 5 weeks. Where you going? Welcome center, buy something Canadian, photos from this side back into US. Whete uou staying? Campsites in International Falls. About a hour later must have been same US agents working, it was just have your ids? Welcome back
I'm a Canadian smoker, and I noticed that you said something here that was actually illegal (time stamp 4.13). You CAN NOT BRING 200 PACKS OF SMOKES ACROSS THE BORDER. You can bring 200 GRAMS across. That's about 7 ounces US, or 10 packs (1 carton of 20 cigs per pack). If you try to bring 200 packs you'll be denied, or arrested, or made to pay the duty tax on them first.
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do you own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information! Thank you for helping us prove that point! Appreciate you
As a Canadian who crossed to the USA and back to Canada all the time, the border is easy, but don't make a dumb mistake. The last time I crossed I got the dog barking at my bag, it turns out the Honeycrisp apple from Costco USA is not allowed, and was confiscated. I wonder if they threw it out or ate it. it was one of those big ones, no bruises, delicious! Can't bring fruit across. Alcohol and cigarettes are limit 2 bottles (750ml for wine) or 1 bottle 1.15L or hard liquor, and 8 packs or smokes (200 Cigs), no more. But you can buy any brand you smoke or drink here, so no need to import it yourself, just buy it when you cross, and if you cross near Montreal, buy at the Indian Reserve, no taxes there cheaper then USA. Even at any Govt Alcohol store, my Jameson 1.15L is CHEAPER in Canada vs USA, so no reason to bring across, just toss the alcohol, or put it in a storage locker before you cross and pick it up on the way back, or a box and ship it to your home address in USA. Don't bring firearms, same, put it in a storage locker in USA and pick up on the return. Just smart stuff like that. Oh, and the USA can search your data, laptop and phone, when you cross back to USA. They don't need a warrant at the border, so I would backup the laptop to the cloud and wipe it if I was bringing a fully loaded computer on the RV. Same for phone, back it up and wipe local Hard Drive, they can plug in and take all your data, and the USA border is much more likely to do this then Canada. The cloud is safer when you cross borders.
don't fucking wipe it, anyone. Another guy just spewing crap. what do you think the border control is gonna do when they search your phone or laptop and it's all wiped? They're just gonna think it's a red flag and you'll be stuck at the border for hours. this guy doesn't have a clue what he's talking about.
Coming into Canada: Sunglasses off, radio off, passport at the ready, language choice, be polite, answer the question directly, be ready for it (alcohol, tobacco, etc.), no extra stuff, no chit-chat, just the facts and move on.
@@liferedesigned if you can get ones from scratch… 🤤 a friend in Peterborough makes them. Would be a great item to lookout for in small town markets and stands.
@@liferedesigned Butter tarts are an Ontario thing, although I have seen them in other parts of Canada. They are a little tart and the filling includes maple syrup, Brown sugar, butter and eggs, sometimes pecans are added or raisins (although these are very divisive). Unlike Sugar Pie (French Canadian- Tarte au Sucre) there is no flour or corn starch so the butter tart is runny. I don't recommend ones made with corn syrup as they will be missing that special flavor that comes from caramelized maple syrup.
You are correct! Thank you for helping prove the point that you should NEVER get your advice from TH-cam as we pointed out in the pinned comment - always do your own research!
Thanks for the information. Actually, for the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, you have a boarder station to check into , on the northern side of Lake Chaplain on the Vermont boarder. My boss at the Sugar Beat Harvest illegally rode a train into New Brunswick. He was caught by the Canadian Mountees. It was the greatest story. There are still hobos riding the rails. One of them had a TH-cam channel and he passed away last year due to health issues. He became disoriented and fell into a lake. He subsequently drowned. I am watching this video because I am about to get my passport to do that canoe trip 😂
@@liferedesigned I understand. I am New Yorker your gateway drug to New York England 😂. Yet we have all the same things. I think we are coming across the water in a friendly way , not like the British or anything extreme. I also think the Boarder Patrol knows it's an established paddling trail, too
200 cigarettes is 1 carton. That's it. I bring oranges from California all the time. They have never said anything to me. When going into the USA, different story. No fruit, no veggies
Americans have to remember that Canada is a different country than US! We don’t carry guns… ammo… attitude… Canada trying to keep your bugs in lettuce, wood, weapons of all kinds out of our Canada. Rules are rules… 🇨🇦🇨🇦
Probably need to double check your reference to 200 packs of cigarettes. The limit per my research is 200 (individual) cigarettes (1 carton of 10 packs each containing 20 cigarettes).
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do your OWN research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information! Thank you for helping us prove that point!😀
I'll never go to Canada again, or buy anything from there if possible. Last time we went in our Class A motorhome and were treated like criminals. Never again.
Something you said or did must have triggered their suspicion! We welcome travellers but they need to follow the rules. This is a good video…but wrong info about the cigarettes.
Hi guys - loved the video - just a few points that you may also want to know - as an American - trying to cross the border into Canada with a DUI conviction - you can/will be turned away due to that fact that it is a criminal offence - you can apply for a waiver but $$$ may be worth it if you plan on crossing the border numerous times as you will get red flagged and turned away again. Also of note as a Canadian crossing into US with a pet - as of Aug 1st the US border crossing - dogs must be 6 mos or older with up-to-date rabies vaccines, a completed CDC form - with photo ID and a certificate signed off by a veterinarian confirming the dog has a microchip, is vaccinated and is healthy. Just and FYI. Always check both US and Canadian websites for all information. Thanks for your informative videos - keep enjoying your journey :)
In August it will be very difficult to bring a dog into the US. Please take the time to check the rules. These rules apply to Americans retuning to the US with their own dog as well as Canadians crossing the border. Just health records and proof of vaccinations are no longer good enough.
The hell with going into Canada. My 2nd Amendment rights have never been so violated as when I tried to cross the border. Apparently, they don't understand our Constitution of; "Shall Not be INFRINGED" as I was plenty infringed. Screw them. Besides America is the best most beautiful country in the world why go anywhere else?
Your 'rights' as an American, VANISH the moment you step outside of your own border... no matter what country you go to. You are NOT 'all that'. Even in your own country, not everywhere has the same laws and offer the same rights.. think abortion, weed, guns, etc, etc, etc.
So why is the Northern border so tight and the Southern border so stupid? And I hope Trump tells the Canadians to pay for the protection they seem to enjoy.
Uh why do you think your constitution applies here? Check the stats about gun violence in the two countries and you will appreciate why we don’t want your guns here. Leave them safely at home. We are a safe country and want it to stay that way! I agree that American is beautiful and I love travelling to see it. There is beauty all around our world, travelling opens your mind to the complexities and wonders of our planet. Try to see as many countries as possible!
Tobacco and alcohol are taxed heavily in Canada. I guess the rational for this is that the high taxes on these products will help pay for the additional universal health care resources the heavy users will eventually require. None of the border crossing videos I've watched ever seem to mention the need to check your health insurance for foreign coverage when travelling to either country.
Thank you for helping us prove our point about NEVER trusting TH-cam and to always do research before attempting to cross! We addressed this also in the pinned comment. We appreciate you!
I have crossed into Canada at least a dozen times and the only problems I had was getting back into the US. I'm over 50 and never been arrested for anything. Entering any MI. crossing I was guilty and treated like I was lying about everything every time I crossed. Vary unprofessional jerks!
We have never really had any issues on both sides other than what we said in the video. Honestly it is a easy process as long as you are not doing anything illegal
And at the US Southern Border they greet you with Gifts, Cash Cards, Transportation, Meals, Free Flights into the Country and to the City of your Choice. No silly Assault Weapons at the US Southern Border just a highly trained Walmart Greeter. At least Canada protects it's country and citizens.
Congratulations! You are the first person to turn this into something political. Want to make a change? Instead of commenting on TH-cam videos to forward your agenda, VOTE and Get active in your community. Until you do that, all you did was waste time.
@@liferedesignedTHANK YOU for pointing out their folly! 🙌 We're here to get advice as how to best cross the Canadian border the easiest and most prepared way. I haven't gone to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls in 30 years, but at least I now know how much policies have changed. Thanks for the updates!
Back at ya, from the Great White North... which BTW it is not right now (White that is), it's 104 F here in Southern B.C. which is why I'm in doors enjoy AC & TH-cam
Good vid, 1 issue though. The Cigarette rule is 200 cigarettes which equalls 1 carton, not 200 packs. They may take them if you have too many or make you pay duty. This is going either way. Have fun either side.
Thank you for helping us prove the point we made in the video 😀 we purposely left that in as everyone should be doing their own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for answers !
Did you catch the "misinformation" in this video? If you take away anything from this video, please be sure to research for yourself before crossing the border on either side - laws constantly change and there is a TON of bad information on TH-cam! Enjoy our content and want to support our channel? Use our Amazon affiliate link - costs you nothing and helps offset the costs of maintaining our channel 😀 www.amazon.com/shop/liferedesigned
We've crossed the US/Canadian border many times, starting out in just a car, then a car plus travel trailer, and now in a Class A coach, and we've never had a problem, even traveling with four dogs. Like you mentioned, know the rules, have your documentation ready, and be prepared to answer questions about why you're crossing the border, where you're headed, and how long you'll be there.
Also, as you mentioned, the border security officers do take their jobs very seriously (which is much appreciated!). They don't take kindly to joking and kidding around. Be respectful, be honest, do what they tell you, and you'll be fine.
Please be aware of the new rules implemented by the US regarding dogs.
so because they haven't made you life hell, they are at clowns at the border? it is way easier to get into the states than to come back into canada. but you are a good obedient little serf.
You can bring 200 cigarettes not 200 packs of cigarettes. 200 cigarettes is the equivalent of one carton of smokes.
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do you own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information!
Thank you for helping us prove that point!
Appreciate you
Pets without papers are a no no, as my parents found out, and to make it worse, it wasn't an issue going into Canada, but getting back into the US with the dog they had taken out earlier that morning. In my experience, the US guards are worse to deal with than the Canadians, mainly just being dicks and acting like we were bothering them.
Now your dog has to have an approved chip in its ear.
Yep. Starting Aug 01, dogs must have a Microchip, be at least 6 months of age, import form, be healthy, have up to date shots/paperwork to be permitted entry or re-entry.
my experience was the reverse,
Each set, are bad to their own citizens. Comes with the territory.
Sigh.
💯 percent agree with your comment about the US border agents. The last time I crossed back into the US I was asked if I had any fruits or veggies. I answered I did not. He asked 3 times and got the same answer. He reached through the window into the cooler we had been using for trash and found one grape.
When he and his buddy walked away after waving me through I overheard him say “well, we got those two old ladies going “ and laughed.
One thing you didn't mention. Leave your firearms at home. We have very strict handgun laws here and you are NOT ALLOWED to carry.
Hi Harry - we chose to leave that out on purpose - to many variables. We also suggested in the video to read laws pertaining to this.
lmao
he mentioned other weapons ,,, firearms would be a given
This applies to both directions!!
You can apply for a permit to bring your hand gun..its on the website!
@sstoner911 I would assume you would only be able to do that to take it to a competitive shooting event. Restricted firearms in Canada require a authorization to transport and that is only granted to go from your home to a gun club along a predetermined route. I think you need an att to take it to a Smith or a gun store.
I live in the Detroit area and have found that getting back into to the U.S. is more of a hassle than going to Canada. I’m thinking “I’ve been a U.S. citizen longer than you’ve been in existence.” I understand that the border patrol agents have a very important job but it’s kind of insulting. We’re just trying to go home.
That is so true - we always look at it as it should NEVER be easy getting into a country.
Don’t mind being insulted a bit to be safe!
You are right about that, I'm a Canadian and coming home they drill you about so many things. I think they are so concerned that we will buy more stuff than we are allowed to.
@@lovesweetpeas47 I used to love being able to say that, while US agents are armed, CDN Border people have a far more fearsome weapon . . . cash registers! Unfortunately that joke was ruined several years ago when our border agents were granted the authority to carry a sidearm.
I haven't crossed into the states since 1991, I just can't stand how they treat everyone like there some kind of monster. I still fly but never go anymore in my car or RV.
I'm an older woman who loves to travel in Canada, I just go where the day takes me. I've never had a problem going over, I checked what I could bring, and it's fine. But getting back in the States, aiming guns at me, taking me into the office, going through my things.....it's a vacation, that's all. I even kept a book for them, day by day of where I was....10 days, sometimes hard to remember. It was due to the fact I was alone.....I'm sorry, no husband..
I just came back from Nova Scotia. Been over the border numerous times.Never had a problem, but this last time coming back to the U.S. the young kid agent wanted to come in my rv, looked around, checked the bathroom, but never looked in the frig or under my bed which is the biggest storage area? Strange. Asked him if he would like to wash the few dishes I had in the sink...he did t have much of a sense of humor.😂 NO problems. Happy to know both the U.S. and our fantastic neighbor to the north are keeping us safe.
Don't joke with the border agents ever. They have the power to flunk you.
One thing you missed, is that a DUI/DWI is looked at a lot more seriously in the North. It is enough of a reason for refusing entry into Canada.
Great point!
Things have probably changed, but last time I checked persons are prohibited entry into Canada if they have been convicted of any crime which is a felony either in their own locale or in Canada, and many alcohol driving violations in the USA are the Canadian equal of a felony there. A person must undergo (search phrase ahead!) "Criminal Rehabilitation to Enter Canada." That means lots of forms, weeks or months of lead time, paying US$$$$ to Canada, and meeting any other requirements they may set. You don't want to show up at the border crossing without taking care of these matters in advance.
@@raygunsforronnie847It’s not quite that cut and dried. If the UScrime you were convicted of is not a crime in Canada (eg simple possession of a small amount of pot), minor felonies may have a form of sunset clause, or if the record was expunged, you have a good chance of a pass. But before you rely on that ,make damn sure you have read the Canadian Government guidance on the subject and follow the instructions exactly. It’s not terribly expensive but the legal advice may be
Martha Stewart once ran afoul of this, and of this moment Trump himself cannot cross the border. If he wins his appeal, it no longer matters, and f he becomes president again, the Minister may give him an exemption (as the law allows)
Learned the hard way that pepper spray was illegal quite a few years back. The agent listed off a bunch of items and my girlfriend said "yeah I think I have some pepper spray somewhere". Boom, into the parking lane, it was late, it was a spur the moment trip for a mini-vacation to Winnipeg, we had money but no solid destination other than "whatever hotel or campground is around." Needless to say, we found the spray and donated it, detained for like 5 hours of questioning, then they finally let us through. Kind of a comical story now thinking back on it ;) 10/10 would do it again, minus the pepper spray part.
@@TsaWind Pepper spray is still illegal in 🇨🇦
THANK YOU! As a Canadian, living about 10 miles from the border, and crossing frequently, I have become increasingly annoyed by the uninformed nonsense put out by so many stupid people on TH-cam. Before retirement my company frequently assigned me to work in their U.S. office, which required daily border crossings for extended periods of time. Of course I required the proper paperwork and permits from the U.S. government. In all of my border crossings over a fifty year period, the one thing I have learned in dealing with border agents on both sides, is that I am dealing with a human being who has the same ups and downs in their life as the rest of us. Of coufse I have had both good and bad experiences in that time. I've found the best approach is to be prepared and honest. Do not try to engage in humour or conversation, just answer the question. And for the benefit of those following some TH-camr advice on driving to Alaska-- No, there are very few RV dealers in Northern British Columbia, because there are very few people!
WELL SAID! we agree 100%
When you work in Public Service, keep your bad days to yourself. Go by the book and keep your feeling's out of it.
I'm Canadian. Going through the border I once witnessed a poor American in a huge motor home who thought he could bring his whole liquor collection into Canada. While he would have had the option of turning around and returning to the States he chose to enter Canada and I saw the agents carrying box after box of confiscated booze from his ride.
Totally agree. Years ago I was inspected because I had a bottle of iced tea and the car was trashed to look for contraband but never had a problem with my RV.
It is crazy how many times we have crossed and NEVER had an issue with an RV - in a car or truck, yep that is when we had issues lol
Last Summer we took our motorhome to Alaska and when the border patrol guard (Montana crossing)asked how long we were going to be in Canada my wife chimed in " Four days " and I told the agent that she's mistaken it will be two weeks. My wife proceeded to argue with me and he told us to go park and go into the building. I finally got her to understand that aside from the five days in Banff and Jasper parks,we had to go through the Yukon territory. When we got up to the agent there and he told us to go get in the inspection line. A very nice gal helped us and sent us on our way after an hour. The moral of the story is, get your stories straight or if you have no sense of time distance and space, allow which ever partner has the best ability in this field. If neither of you can do this then sit down ahead of time and figure it out. Heading to the Canadian Maritime provinces from SoCal. Wish us(me😂) luck.
Well stated and GOOD LUCK!
Were you scraping frost off the inside of the windshield once they turned you loose?
@@niemi5858 No. The weather didn't start getting cold until we were headed back to the U.S. and even then it was only at night which scared me a little because I put in lithium batteries before we left and I hadn't installed the heat pads for low temperature protection.
The main thing ai found as one who has travelled extensively in the US for professional reasons, is not have an attitude.Answer questions politely, and I’ve never had a problem.A sense of humour doesn’t hurt.
Good information and very honest. Thank you both. If you are an ass at the border they can and will take your vehicle apart and when they don't find anything they will say have a good day and leave you to the pile of parts to reassemble so don't play games with either border or you will regret it. I'm a Canadian and cross a lot and never had an issue because I know the laws and rules and I don't have anything to hide.
Amazing how that works - follow the rules and laws and don't have a problem lol what a concept! Safe Travels 😀
I was a truck driver an crossed the Canadian border many times, for me my load paperwork had to be sent ahead of time, as long as it was correct I never had a problem if it wasn't I had to take a walk , NOW getting back in to the U. S . I GOT WORKED OVER , x rayed , twice once in the truck , you have to declare What ever you buy in Canada when you come back and you will want to exchange your your money when you cross into Canada at the border , it gets confusing if you don't
As Canadians, we were crossing into Washington from BC a couple weeks ago with our RV and got searched for the first time ever. They were searching all RVs for fruit, raw chicken and eggs!!
When returning to Canada a couple days ago we breezed right on through with very few questions!
it is interesting how either way can be clear or a problem lol
I went the other way once. Came from Canada and was driving to Disneyland. I was worried about two things - my kids Dad had passed away so I obviously didnt have his written permission to bring them into the U.S. I was remarried and was bringing them across with another man. I had ALL of the documentation that i could fathom. His death certificate, our marrige certificate, his obituary, our receipt from our widows and orphans benefits... The U.S. customs officer just opened the sliding door to the van and said to the kids "are they forcing you to go to Disneyland?" The kids laughed, said no, and he closed the door and waved us on. Never asked for anything! Which saved me from my second worry - my oldest had just turned 18 the week before and realizd as we approached the border that she HAD to have her drivers lisence on her. She didnt - we faced an almost five hour drive back home to get it if denied. I flew to San Diego once and the U.S. Border agent had a long chat with me about eating at Souplantation that he initiated. 😂
While we have not yet traveled to Canada with our RV I have driven across the border numerous times in Michigan, Vermont, and Washington and we agree it is not as "scary" and intimidating as some of the thumbnails would lead you to believe. As always you guys are shouting the truth, love it.
Hey Y'all! hope you guys are doing well 😀
I’ve only driven to Canada once (only time I’ve been there), my wife and I had no problems and were at the guard station only a minute or 2. Coming back into America we were delayed and our car was searched.
As a Canadian, I've had more challenges crossing back into my own country, Canada, than I've ever had getting into the States. Things like pulling into the bilingual French spoken here lane when I don't speak French inspite of my French last name. Or trying to convince an agent that even though I was in Michigan overnight, I didn't buy anything and was not trying to smuggle something in.
Seems to always be a bit harder on both sides when returning to your home country lol, would think it would be the opposite 🤣🤣
@@liferedesignedwhen you’re returning home you’re expected to be bringing souvenirs or something special possibly above your allowance. Imagine what it’s like for woman returning from Paris with no perfume or clothing to declare. That is often suspicious as we found out. But my wife is doesn’t like perfume, wears no jewelry, and is happy with blue jeans and a T-shirt. We explained that all we were bringing home was memories and pictures we must have been believed because we weren’t interrogated.
Well you're bringing things back when you return so expect you have things to declare. You're lucky the agent didn't send you to secondary to waste an hour or two of your life especially for an overnighter which could be suspicious for drug/human smuggling.
Guys i am new Zealander who lives in Australia. When i fly into NZ i might as well fly naked get searched every time. That is mainly due to i am there for fishing and hunting and i own a farm in Australia. Always get though in the end and it does make trip exciting
🤣🤣 flying naked! The ONLY way to travel
I'm pretty sure the rule on cigarettes is 200 cigarettes not packs of cigarettes (one carton of 8 packs). 200 packs of smokes is 25 cartons of 8. The border guards make take issue with that amount. Also good information for US smokers- cigarettes are expensive in Canada. Bring as many as your comfortable carrying. Canadian brands are different than American ones and generally Canadian cigarettes are milder flavoured than American. You may not like them as much as your old favourites.
Thank you for helping us prove our point made in the video that you should NEVER get your information on border crossings from TH-cam! We also addressed this in the pinned comment.
We live a hundred miles from the border, have been to Canada often (but only once with an RV for Expo '86), and never had a problem in either direction. Never been diverted to secondary. Quick, simple, direct answers delivered politely without delay seem to me to be the key.
Absolutely!
I never heard of the high beam situation before this, that is such priceless information to know, thank you as I will never forget that you mentioned this fact.
Keeping your mouth and your vehicle clean while crossing will be the difference of whether you are expedited through quickly without hassles.
If you are smart with them , even a little bit, it will get you turned around in a hurry. Border Patrol, will not play games with you, play games and your not getting in, its that simple. Learn to play by the rules and travelling into another country, will be a much smoother and less stressful process for everyone involved.
Thanks so much for this valuable info and tips.
Thank you for watching! Your comments are spot on!
great information as I plan to visit Canada for the first time in over 20 years. I recall a random re-entry question on one visit 25 years ago, which was "how was the weather?" because the border patrol knows how the weather was where you claim to have visited. I was lucky, it snowed (in July) during our trip.
Ah, the old weather question!
Very cleaver advice, very positive attitude. Welcome to Canada😊
Thank you! 😃
One time when crossing the border the inspector wanted to inspect our RV and after he was through he said our unit was one of the cleanest units he ever inspected Lol 😅
That is awesome!
1980 I was stationed in Syracuse NY and we decided to go Get some Canadian beer crossing the boarder was easy back then
Yes it was!
In some cases, depending on the border guard.
If your vehicle, RV is too clean. They could see it as someone trying to hide something.
Always be ready and make time to go in secondary search regardless.
Don’t bring Cuban Cigars or Kinder Surprise Eggs back into the US from Canada. I’ve been told that the fine for each Kinder Surprise is $2,500 for each one.
Ouch!
Why is that? They sell Kinder Eggs at almost every grocery store here. Even cases of them on Amazon. Here meaning in the states.
@@Harsesis1 They are different. We used to live in Germany and loved the Kinder Eggs. We got back to the U.S.A. and the German kinder eggs are illegal here because of the way they are packaged. The food has to be separate from the prize in the U.S.A., so the food is on one side and the toy on the other. In Germany, and I'm guessing Canada as well, the prize is inside a container surrounded by a chocolate hollow egg. The chocolate and prizes are much better with the Kinder Eggs outside of the U.S.A., so people want to bring them into the country. Funny how such a little thing can wind up being such a big thing.
Fruits and vegetables for personal use originating from the United States are allowed but limited to 20kg of fruits and 20kg of vegetables.
True but is more complex than that. You are required to declare, all vegetables, fruits, meats and home made preparation. They will generally let you go with unpacked food that was cleaned and prepared. Think about fruits outside of their original packages. As mentionned in their videos, leafly vegetables are usually not allowed due to E. coli and other bacterias propagation risks. Time to time their is also restrictions on fresh meats for similar reasons. For several years Canadian beef was banned to enter in the States but not the last time we went by.
I watched a few of your videos and now I subscribed. I really like your content. My husband and I are nearing retirement and have talked about selling everything and hitting the road when that happens, so I'm researching things now. If it happens, we want to go to Canada as well. I read through all the comments, and I'm surprised at the attitudes a few people have. It sounds to me like the border crossing folks are doing a great job, even if it's inconvenient to Rv'ers at times. Great advice about doing your research and just letting them do their job, even if you wind up with a true jerk at the border. It is also good to know that rules can change, so finding out the current rules when you do travel is a smart thing to do, especially since we will probably have our two little chihuahuas with us. Happy camping!
Yeah people have opinions about everything lol, Border Officers are just trying to protect their country's citizens. they are not nor should they be expected to be customer service reps :)
Invaluable information, especially the point regarding high beams. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! Wish we didn’t find out the hard way though lol
200 cigarettes NOT 200 packs. NO food that we grow here, NO GUNS, MACE, HUGE KNIVES, SWORDS ETC., NO STRANGER ANIMALS W/O papers. First time I realized I could not bring certain food was in United States after a cruise in Mexico. No tropical fruit in January!! Thanks for the report!
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do you own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information!
Thank you for helping us prove that point!
Appreciate you
One error you mentioned, 200 packs of cigarettes. It's 200 cigarettes not packs it's a huge difference. Just so you know. We cross regular and have no issues going back and forth.
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do your OWN research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information!
Thank you for helping us prove that point!😀
I would’ve hated to see Bob in cuffs at the border! 😂
🤣🤣🤣🤣
Excellent Video and I almost died when I heard 200 cartons....lol. I lived right on the bordah as some call it in Maine. As a Canadian living in New Brunswick and going back and forth across sometimes daily, I was told by agents on both sides answer only what they ask you. There were times coming back into Canada where I had groceries in my back seat in clear view and they asked the value and made sure it was eligible to bring back and then away I went. Things got a bit different after 911 but overall they're doing their job to protect each side and just tell them what you have when asked. The alcohol limit for a Canadian is supposed to be 1.14 liters per person so 2x750 ml would put you over but most times they're reasonable. Drink half of one the day before....lol....keep up the great videos.
lol, it actually is 200 individual cigarettes not packs. We left that in the video and addressed it in the pinned comment to prove a point. NEVER trust TH-cam and always do your own research before crossing :)
Only times having trouble was coming back into US never going to Canada. Use to go to races outside of Toronto and would arrive at border to Vermont in the middle of the night very quite ao agents were board so they would send us to secondary because nothing else to do. We also use to race around Montreal and had to have an itemized list of every thing we brought in so they could check that we were bring every thing back. Some racers would sell items to canadian racers or buy from them so customs wanted there cut of taxes.
2 more tips I’d add based on an unfortunate experience: avoid carrying any extra licence plates in your vehicle when you cross the border, and ensure you have ALL your documentation if the vehicle isn’t in your name.
My ex once drove an old SUV he’d had for years into customs, forgetting that technically it was a fleet vehicle owned by his friend’s company, who he didn’t work for or live anywhere near (they asked). AND we happened to have plates for a trailer and for another car visible in the cargo area. We were completely innocent and I actually didn’t know the truck wasn’t in his name 😅 but in hindsight we were dumb as rocks to not think all that through, and it took us an hour to sort things out with some understandably suspicious agents in the secondary search.
OH NO! LOL, at least you have a funny story to tell :)
Safe Travels
The last time I went it was easy, getting back was a little different but got back just more questions than going in. Good information guy’s!
Definitely a lot more of a hassle getting back into the USA sometimes
Great information to have, we have not been to Canada but if and when we do, I'm glad I watched this video.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Crossed many times and never had a problem with our 5th wheel or other vehicles. The new rules coming into play Aug 1st 2024 for crossing into the US with pets is going to be a real pain.
Never a problem here also.
@@liferedesignedRules were changed a couple of days ago . Just need to have your rabies certificate and dog import form receipt from CDC completed within 6 months of crossing.
You are allowed 200 cigarettes, not 200 packages.
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do you own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information!
Thank you for helping us prove that point!
Appreciate you
As a 60 yr old Canadian Girl, I would like to thank you both for the Best ever Review of coming into Canadian Border and it seems you both truly enjoy Visiting this Beautiful Country
We do love having awesome American travelers come and experience this peaceful Country
My suggestion is to Cross over at the Michigan Border into Sarina Ontario and do some site seeing either up to Grand Bend or go along High #3 past Windsor head over towards Chatham Ontario and travel the #3 highway
Oh yes and when you go into the City of Sarnia go down to Point Edward by the Water and look back at the States from this Canadian side to see over on Your side yous guys fly both the American flag and the Canadian Flag more then we do over here, I love how Patriotic the States are and so Proud to Fly the Flags
Thank You from Debra July 30 2024
ALL points have been added to our journal - thank you for the awesome tips!
My husband and his friends go to Canada three times every summer from Minnesota. They never had a problem. Never be a smart ass
Yes! Exactly! 🙌
As a Canadian living in Metro Vancouver, it's not unusual for me to cross the border to pick up a package or do some grocery shopping. As you might imagine, I don't want any complications at the border. As someone else in the comments mentioned, don't engage the officers in any added conversation or small talk. For me it's, "Yes sir, no sir, thank you sir". On both sides of the border, the officers are primarily trying to keep out "undesirables" and your job to show them that you're legal to enter, won't cause problems while you're visiting, and you plan to return in a timely fashion. If you meet these criteria, it'll be smooth sailing no matter which way you're bound.
Great video. I never hear any information about kitchen knives.
From our experience, kitchen knives are never an issue in the correct setting. Our RV knife block is never an issue but if it was in the back seat of our truck without an RV in tow just rolling around - that may be different 😀
know the difference between metric and imperial, (speed, distance, weather, weight) and don't complain about it.
and then there is the golden rule, no matter how much warning you give, its those folks who still end up getting arrested, "there is No fixing stupid.'
Very True
I cross at Cornwall, back and forth on the same day, sometimes twice. No issues at all, just answer the questions truthfully and don't try and sneak anything across- they can tell.
Absolutely! this is exactly why we don't understand all the drama videos about crossing! Just another fake subject for clicks
Some questions are to throw you off or gauge your response, but they also have access to information you might not realize. You should assume they already know the answer to the question. Our countries do exchange information, and making a false statement can be reason for you to be refused.
absolutely!
This was a really good one.
I live in Canada, have for about 65 years.I travel on a German passport. I used to be able to obtain a Visa Waiver form at the US customs border office. Now however I need an electronic “Esta” form along with my passport. Ahead of time. This changed about 2 years ago. Booked hotels and tours in Gettysburg, about $1,000., all forfeited, Get refused and escorted back to Canada with flashing lights, no Gettysburg for me. . I too can say “never again”. BTW it’s 200 cigarettes, not 200 packs. Meanwhile, down at the Rio Grande………..
Thanks for helping us prove the point about NEVER getting border advice from youtube! You are correct 200 cigarettes not packs
Nice I just came across your channel and I'm definitely going to check it out. It was nice to hear that you have been in my back yard type of thing with the locations you mentioned. 👍🇨🇦
Thank You - we love traveling through Canada and are looking into logistics with Bob's company to be able to work remotely and travel throughout Canada for 6 months in 2025 or 2026.
@@liferedesigned This is a nice surprise I would have never thought that I would get a response. Seriously ty for that. Anyway I will see you in the comment section again soon 👍 🇨🇦
anytime! we usually reply to all comments (unless some sneak by us) lol - Be well and have a Beaver Tail for us!
what do you say do you want me to email you a few 😂. I have never had one in my life. See you in the comment section again soon 👍 🇨🇦
Bonjour, just one thing I’d like to correct is the cigarettes that you mentioned. It’s 200 cigarettes not 200 packs. 200 packs would be considered contraband. Be careful.
Thank you for helping us prove the point about NOT relying on TH-cam for border information! You are absolutely correct as we pointed out in the pinned comment.
wE APPRECIATE IT!
Great vid guys. Greg from To. Canada.
Hey Greg! Ty - we had a blast in Toronto! As funny as this sounds - best pasta and meatballs on the planet are at the marketplace!
Oh Man! I went through from ME on a classic 72 BMW R75 in the nineties. They made me start dumping out all of my bike bags to the point that it got ridiculous. I told them to put my $#!^ back in my bags and I would just spend my money in The States. The dude backed off and let me go through. Geez, I wanted to ride 1,000 miles North, not bomb or slauter people. Wow!
Oh this made me laugh… as Canadians and we have trouble getting back into Canada 🤣🤣🤣
lol, same for us coming back into the USA
@@liferedesigned 🤣🤣
Getting home to Canada has always been harder for me as well.
@@user-vl9tg2xr7q it can be a night mare, which is unnecessary as the American side always smiles, chats & wishes us a great visit. The Canadian side has me flagged as I order a lot of supplements & clothing that we cannot get up here. Even our packages are opened for the last 10 years when we receive them. We have a friend that works at the Coutts crossing (which we use a lot) who told us this is why. Enjoy your summer.
I’d think the first thing would be to not intentionally smuggle anything across any country’s border-ya never know those people who take advice from TH-camrs may have thought to!
I would only add what a US border person told me, to call the border crossing you plan to use to find out the latest can & cannot bring across. When we crossed in early May (to the US) we found out eggs were a no-go due to bird flu. And rice…which got us the invite to the office 🤪. Lost about 18lbs of rice just because the baggies did not have the original place of origin label with them. Being in baggies was fine they just needed the original labels with them. Kept the empty baggies after dumping them in the TuffTote.
Fruit & veggies for both sides is to prevent disease or bug infestation. That’s the same for firewood across lines. It’s even stricter here as no firewood is allowed from a different campground/area. Bugs can destroy forests. Same with cleaning your watercraft’s, floaties to boats, some invasive weed can kill lakes & waterways.
On the way back to Canada we chose an obscure crossing (Laurier in Washington) where I swear the dude had numerous slow days in a row! Anyway, he asked us to put the rear passenger window down & our large dog gave him a loud hello (one bark). The dude just said big dog! He did question why if we were from a city in Alberta why we were crossing there. We were making a loop after visiting friends in Boise.
I heard it as “why in the world would you drive those twisting turny roads just to get back home?”🤣. We also questioned it while driving that highway 😂.
Good video & information
THANK YOU sharing the problems.
Thank YOU for watching ❤️❤️
We just found you guys. Great video.
Thank You!
We crossed from International Falls to Ft. Francis by bicycle a few years ago after riding from the Gulf. The Canadian agents were are they vehicles or pedestrians? After 60 -70 miles that day and caught in some rain probably not the best looking little group. They decided inside out of the sun. Took maybe 5 minutes. Asked how far we came. I think that fay Black Duck. Before that? The Gulf, How far? About 2200 miles. How long? 5 weeks. Where you going? Welcome center, buy something Canadian, photos from this side back into US. Whete uou staying? Campsites in International Falls. About a hour later must have been same US agents working, it was just have your ids? Welcome back
I'm a Canadian smoker, and I noticed that you said something here that was actually illegal (time stamp 4.13). You CAN NOT BRING 200 PACKS OF SMOKES ACROSS THE BORDER. You can bring 200 GRAMS across. That's about 7 ounces US, or 10 packs (1 carton of 20 cigs per pack). If you try to bring 200 packs you'll be denied, or arrested, or made to pay the duty tax on them first.
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do you own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information!
Thank you for helping us prove that point!
Appreciate you
Interesting information to hear.
I always found it was easier to get into Canada than to return to the US.
As a Canadian who crossed to the USA and back to Canada all the time, the border is easy, but don't make a dumb mistake. The last time I crossed I got the dog barking at my bag, it turns out the Honeycrisp apple from Costco USA is not allowed, and was confiscated. I wonder if they threw it out or ate it. it was one of those big ones, no bruises, delicious! Can't bring fruit across. Alcohol and cigarettes are limit 2 bottles (750ml for wine) or 1 bottle 1.15L or hard liquor, and 8 packs or smokes (200 Cigs), no more. But you can buy any brand you smoke or drink here, so no need to import it yourself, just buy it when you cross, and if you cross near Montreal, buy at the Indian Reserve, no taxes there cheaper then USA. Even at any Govt Alcohol store, my Jameson 1.15L is CHEAPER in Canada vs USA, so no reason to bring across, just toss the alcohol, or put it in a storage locker before you cross and pick it up on the way back, or a box and ship it to your home address in USA. Don't bring firearms, same, put it in a storage locker in USA and pick up on the return. Just smart stuff like that. Oh, and the USA can search your data, laptop and phone, when you cross back to USA. They don't need a warrant at the border, so I would backup the laptop to the cloud and wipe it if I was bringing a fully loaded computer on the RV. Same for phone, back it up and wipe local Hard Drive, they can plug in and take all your data, and the USA border is much more likely to do this then Canada. The cloud is safer when you cross borders.
Interesting
don't fucking wipe it, anyone. Another guy just spewing crap. what do you think the border control is gonna do when they search your phone or laptop and it's all wiped? They're just gonna think it's a red flag and you'll be stuck at the border for hours. this guy doesn't have a clue what he's talking about.
Whole apples are not allowed due to possibility of pests, oddly cut ip apples are allowed
Coming into Canada: Sunglasses off, radio off, passport at the ready, language choice, be polite, answer the question directly, be ready for it (alcohol, tobacco, etc.), no extra stuff, no chit-chat, just the facts and move on.
Note , as for Boose , you can not bring back to Canada 2 bottles of wine each person in a vehicule , nope just one per person or hard alcohol
Double check that limitation as 2 bottles of wine per person is on the CBP website
Great video and good information
Thank You - glad it was appreciated!
Thanks for the tips. I'm crossing in my van next week with my dog. The new pet paperwork starts aug 1.
Have fun!
What new pet pw?
@@MISCIFMAKER www.cdc.gov/importation/bringing-an-animal-into-the-united-states/required-forms-for-importing-dog-united-states.html
the Canadian government has been nattering at US govt so they are starting to back track on the new regs.It will be a work in progress.
…butter tarts! I go for the butter tarts
Wait! What are those? Googling now .....
@@liferedesigned if you can get ones from scratch… 🤤 a friend in Peterborough makes them. Would be a great item to lookout for in small town markets and stands.
@@liferedesigned Butter tarts are an Ontario thing, although I have seen them in other parts of Canada. They are a little tart and the filling includes maple syrup, Brown sugar, butter and eggs, sometimes pecans are added or raisins (although these are very divisive). Unlike Sugar Pie (French Canadian- Tarte au Sucre) there is no flour or corn starch so the butter tart is runny. I don't recommend ones made with corn syrup as they will be missing that special flavor that comes from caramelized maple syrup.
It's ironic that one hears the bitching about strict border policies from the same people that complain about a lack of "border security".
Probably because there are 2 borders that are handled completely different
You can bring "bear spray" ........🙂
Don't have nothing to hide should not have problems
This! We can’t say it enough!
I am pretty sure it is 200 cigarettes not 200 packs.
You are correct! Thank you for helping prove the point that you should NEVER get your advice from TH-cam as we pointed out in the pinned comment - always do your own research!
Thanks for the information. Actually, for the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, you have a boarder station to check into , on the northern side of Lake Chaplain on the Vermont boarder.
My boss at the Sugar Beat Harvest illegally rode a train into New Brunswick. He was caught by the Canadian Mountees. It was the greatest story. There are still hobos riding the rails.
One of them had a TH-cam channel and he passed away last year due to health issues. He became disoriented and fell into a lake. He subsequently drowned.
I am watching this video because I am about to get my passport to do that canoe trip 😂
Be careful at those Vermont crossings by Lake Champlain ... they do not play around up there lol.
@@liferedesigned I understand. I am New Yorker your gateway drug to New York England 😂. Yet we have all the same things.
I think we are coming across the water in a friendly way , not like the British or anything extreme.
I also think the Boarder Patrol knows it's an established paddling trail, too
The visual of British attire while crossing had me laughing hysterically for some reason :)
@@liferedesigned If you know me, I am a funny guy. I love interacting with people at seasonal cruise ship job. I make them and have a good day.
200 cigarettes is 1 carton. That's it. I bring oranges from California all the time. They have never said anything to me. When going into the USA, different story. No fruit, no veggies
Going the opposite direction is worse for canadians.
Americans have to remember that Canada is a different country than US! We don’t carry guns… ammo… attitude… Canada trying to keep your bugs in lettuce, wood, weapons of all kinds out of our Canada.
Rules are rules… 🇨🇦🇨🇦
Absolutely! We are actually kind of surprised by the amount of people that don't understand that each country has their own rules you need to follow.
"We've been all over Canada from Ontario to Quebec" is like saying "We've been all over the USA from New York to Vermont"
We have been coast to coast in Canada and crossed over everywhere from Ontario to Quebec. Sorry that was not clear for you
Probably need to double check your reference to 200 packs of cigarettes. The limit per my research is 200 (individual) cigarettes (1 carton of 10 packs each containing 20 cigarettes).
Absolutely! This is exactly why we left that in the video - It is imperative that you do your OWN research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for the information!
Thank you for helping us prove that point!😀
I'll never go to Canada again, or buy anything from there if possible. Last time we went in our Class A motorhome and were treated like criminals. Never again.
That is always your prerogative
@@liferedesigned Yep
Something you said or did must have triggered their suspicion! We welcome travellers but they need to follow the rules. This is a good video…but wrong info about the cigarettes.
Thank you for helping to prove our point about NOT getting info on border crossings from TH-cam! This was also addressed in the pinned comment.
You are from New England and you drove right past the Maritime Provinces,? You would love Newfoundland , NS,NB and PEI
Hi guys - loved the video - just a few points that you may also want to know - as an American - trying to cross the border into Canada with a DUI conviction - you can/will be turned away due to that fact that it is a criminal offence - you can apply for a waiver but $$$ may be worth it if you plan on crossing the border numerous times as you will get red flagged and turned away again. Also of note as a Canadian crossing into US with a pet - as of Aug 1st the US border crossing - dogs must be 6 mos or older with up-to-date rabies vaccines, a completed CDC form - with photo ID and a certificate signed off by a veterinarian confirming the dog has a microchip, is vaccinated and is healthy. Just and FYI. Always check both US and Canadian websites for all information. Thanks for your informative videos - keep enjoying your journey :)
Great points! Thank you
Dog requirements have changed. Check the CDC website
That's because your very bright lights mess with there camera and sensor systems
Absolutely!
In August it will be very difficult to bring a dog into the US. Please take the time to check the rules. These rules apply to Americans retuning to the US with their own dog as well as Canadians crossing the border. Just health records and proof of vaccinations are no longer good enough.
Absolutely! As we said in the video - research is the key ALL THE TIME.
The hell with going into Canada. My 2nd Amendment rights have never been so violated as when I tried to cross the border. Apparently, they don't understand our Constitution of; "Shall Not be INFRINGED" as I was plenty infringed. Screw them. Besides America is the best most beautiful country in the world why go anywhere else?
Your second amendment rights do not apply to Canada.
Your 'rights' as an American, VANISH the moment you step outside of your own border... no matter what country you go to. You are NOT 'all that'.
Even in your own country, not everywhere has the same laws and offer the same rights.. think abortion, weed, guns, etc, etc, etc.
So why is the Northern border so tight and the Southern border so stupid? And I hope Trump tells the Canadians to pay for the protection they seem to enjoy.
Uh why do you think your constitution applies here? Check the stats about gun violence in the two countries and you will appreciate why we don’t want your guns here. Leave them safely at home. We are a safe country and want it to stay that way! I agree that American is beautiful and I love travelling to see it. There is beauty all around our world, travelling opens your mind to the complexities and wonders of our planet. Try to see as many countries as possible!
cheap pack of smokes is $17 bucks a 6oack $15 yes buy them in the US
Tobacco and alcohol are taxed heavily in Canada. I guess the rational for this is that the high taxes on these products will help pay for the additional universal health care resources the heavy users will eventually require. None of the border crossing videos I've watched ever seem to mention the need to check your health insurance for foreign coverage when travelling to either country.
Once was enough for us
Wow, pepper spray is illegal? They really do want you defenseless.
Why would you need pepper spray in Canada?
Honestly you won’t need it. Bear spray on the other hand if you are camping in the north will be a necessity!
Nice vid. Greetings from NB.
Thank you and back at ya from South Carolina 🤣
lol no more canadian tire $$$$
Oh no!
You can only bring in 200 cigarettes, not 200 packages .
Thank you for helping us prove our point about NEVER trusting TH-cam and to always do research before attempting to cross!
We addressed this also in the pinned comment.
We appreciate you!
No worries. Keep well 😊
Are the limits per person or per group, ie. two bottles of wine per adult or for the entire group in the vehicle?
Is worded as per person BUT we still recommend calling ahead
I have crossed into Canada at least a dozen times and the only problems I had was getting back into the US. I'm over 50 and never been arrested for anything. Entering any MI. crossing I was guilty and treated like I was lying about everything every time I crossed. Vary unprofessional jerks!
We have had similar experiences. We never take it personally
I've heard getting back into the states is more difficult even if a US citizen.
Any info on that?
We have never really had any issues on both sides other than what we said in the video. Honestly it is a easy process as long as you are not doing anything illegal
Just don't bring Cuban cigars back.
And at the US Southern Border they greet you with Gifts, Cash Cards, Transportation, Meals, Free Flights into the Country and to the City of your Choice. No silly Assault Weapons at the US Southern Border just a highly trained Walmart Greeter. At least Canada protects it's country and citizens.
Congratulations! You are the first person to turn this into something political. Want to make a change? Instead of commenting on TH-cam videos to forward your agenda, VOTE and Get active in your community. Until you do that, all you did was waste time.
@@liferedesignedTHANK YOU for pointing out their folly! 🙌 We're here to get advice as how to best cross the Canadian border the easiest and most prepared way.
I haven't gone to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls in 30 years, but at least I now know how much policies have changed. Thanks for the updates!
If you have pet food do research: if not in original packaging it may be confiscated!!!!
great point!
Back at ya, from the Great White North... which BTW it is not right now (White that is), it's 104 F here in Southern B.C. which is why I'm in doors enjoy AC & TH-cam
104F ?? Okay that is way too hot! Even here in SC it is only 97F - stay cool my friend!
Good vid, 1 issue though. The Cigarette rule is 200 cigarettes which equalls 1 carton, not 200 packs. They may take them if you have too many or make you pay duty. This is going either way. Have fun either side.
Thank you for helping us prove the point we made in the video 😀 we purposely left that in as everyone should be doing their own research and NEVER rely on TH-cam for answers !
The border said RV is a mandatory search.
Apparently not
@@liferedesigned They searched us for 3 hours, didn't find anything, and I told them I won't be back.
sorry to hear that