FollowWhen Americans think of traveling to Canada, they might not give it much thought, because, well, it’s Canada. As Americans we have always thought of Canada as our brother, compradre in arms, so to speak. Seriously though, Canada is a different country with a completely different set of rules. Here are a few things that every American should know about traveling in Canada.
1. Crossing the Border. When you are driving into Canada, make sure you know what to declare. Are you bringing tobacco, alcohol, or firearms into Canada from the States? They have pretty strict limits on how much alcohol and tobacco you can bring across. If you are trying to bring firearms, make sure you have the proper paperwork completed before you get to the border. Handguns are not permissible to cross into Canada without prior approval. If you are a pack rat and have a lot of stuff in your vehicle, be prepared to answer why you have so much stuff. If they think you are trying to cross into Canada to come to live or work, you will be asked to step inside and explain your itinerary. You are only allowed a small amount of time in the country without having to apply for a visa.
2. Currency. The Canadian dollar is not at the same exchange rate as the US dollar. Currently, a $1 Canadian dollar is equivalent to $0.90 US dollars. In Canada, they have coins for their $1 and $2 bills called loonies and toonies, respectively. Their paper money is made out of plastic and has a silver barcode going through the center. Your US ATM card will only work as a credit card at Canadian merchants. You cannot get cash back at grocery or convenience stores like you can in the States. You must go to a bank and use their ATM to receive Canadian money. Whenever you use your debit or credit card in Canada the charges will be in US currency on your statement.
3. Cell Phone Service. There is limited cell phone and WiFi services in the northern part of Canada because it has a much denser population than the cities located in the southern part of the country. Try to use WiFi when traveling in Canada as much as possible. By the smallest data plan before you enter Canada so in case you need to use your phone you can without spending an outrageous amount and come home to a crazy high cell phone bill.
Before traveling to Canada, you may want to pick up the Lonely Planet Canada (travel guide) and/or the National Geographic Guide to The National Parks of Canada.
These books will you to map out a itinerary so that you will know where to go in Canada and how to get there in the shortest amount of travel time.
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