Essential Tips for Canadians Traveling to the U.S. This Thanksgiving
As Thanksgiving approaches, many Canadians are preparing to travel to the U.S. for the holiday weekend. To ensure a smooth journey, it is important to be aware of potential tariffs and travel regulations.
Understanding Tariffs and Exemptions
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has issued important information regarding tariffs. While counter-tariffs on most U.S. imports were lifted on September 1, a 25% tariff remains on steel, aluminum products, and automotive imports from the U.S. Goods covered under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) are exempt from these tariffs.
Duties and Personal Exemptions
- Canadian residents can bring back certain goods without incurring regular duties.
- Exemptions include specified amounts of alcohol and tobacco.
- Travellers must declare the value of goods in Canadian dollars and keep receipts handy.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
When returning to Canada, it is crucial to check the list of restricted items to avoid fines or other penalties. The following items are prohibited:
- Homemade food and leftovers containing turkey
- Poultry and birds from the U.S.
- Certain firearms and weapons
- Narcotics and cannabis
Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey
For those driving to the U.S., the CBSA recommends planning routes ahead of time. Travellers can check border wait times using GPS applications, such as Google Maps, to find alternative entry points with less congestion. Typically, early morning crossings are advised to avoid long waits, particularly on the busy holiday Monday.
Preparation of Travel Documents
Having travel documents ready can significantly speed up border processing. International travelers flying into Canada can utilize the Advance Declaration feature in the ArriveCAN app to submit customs and immigration declarations up to 72 hours before their arrival.
Traveling with Children
For those traveling with children who are not their legal dependents, it is essential to bring a consent letter from the child’s parent or guardian. This document may help prevent additional inquiries from border officials.
By staying informed and preparing adequately, Canadians can navigate their Thanksgiving travels to the U.S. with greater ease and enjoyment.
