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    Crossing the US-Canada Border: Full Interaction & Tips! 🇺🇸🇨🇦



    If you want to see the return trip to the States, we crossed back at this same port! Check out the return journey here and let us know which side was stricter:
    👉 https://youtube.com/shorts/D8yM30v81aQ?si=-E4fUGEHBq2JRuOT

    Crossing the US-Canada border can be stressful—even when you have nothing to hide! Derek still feels like he’s accidentally smuggling something every time we pull up to the booth. 😅 We filmed this crossing from Washington into British Columbia to show you exactly how the interaction goes and what the officers actually ask.

    We get hundreds of questions about this crossing. Here are the big ones:

    ​The “Secret” to a Smooth Entry: It’s all about being prepared. As long as your vehicle is clean and you aren’t hiding anything, you have nothing to worry about!

    ​The Fridge Situation: This is the #1 concern for RVers and Vanlifers. Generally, you want to clear out your fresh poultry, meats, and certain produce. Rules change daily based on agricultural outbreaks, so check the official CBSA (Canada) or CBP (US) sites before you hit the line!

    ​The Cash Rule: You can bring money, but if it’s over $10,000 (USD or CAD), you must declare it.
    ​Traveling with Pets: Don’t panic! Usually, all you need is a valid rabies vaccination certificate. Have it printed out and ready just in case.

    Follow these “Unwritten Rules” to stay on the agent’s good side:
    ✅ Eyes on the Agent: Remove your hat and sunglasses before you reach the window.
    ✅ Engine Off/Windows Down: Turn off your music and roll down both front and back windows so they can see inside.
    ✅ Be Honest: They already know more than you think. If you’ve crossed recently, they can see exactly when and where.

    Got a Border Horror Story? Got any questions? Leave a comment below. We try to answer as many as we can.

    #USBorderCrossing #CanadaBorder #TravelTips #VanLife #RVLife #RoadTrip #BorderCrossing #BoundaryBay #PeaceArch #TravelVlog

    View 24 Comments

    24 Comments

    4. @sylviabanks7700 on

      My college roommate and I, along with other dorm friends, were driving into Canada from Dayton, Ohio our sophomore year. The one friend who had been to Canada before told us that the first question they’d ask at the boarder was “Are you here for business or pleasure?” My roommate was driving and she had practiced her response for days (she had an irrational fear of being detained at the boarder for whatever reason). So, when we pulled up, the Canadian boarder officer asked, “where y’all headed?” And my roommate blurts “For pleasure!” 😅 The officer looked at us oddly for a second and continued asking all the standard questions. We teased her for days after this. I still randomly see her and shout “for pleasure!”

      If you ever see this, love you, Georgia! 😂

    11. @rae0521 on

      The last time I crossed into the USA I didn't even need ID… and one time they just used my driver's license.
      And the next time I cross the border the conditions will be the same. Which means NEVER crossing again, right?.

    13. @theeoarsman921 on

      In 2017 officer Pinto with the Canadian Border Patrol searched my phone, had me pull up my shirt and pant legs while another officer stood by with his had on his pistol while still other officers tossed my vehicle into a mess. All this for a handicapped old man with no criminal record!

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