Travel tips from the CBSA for the summer holiday period

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The summer season is upon us and in the upcoming weeks, many Canadians will take to the road and travel abroad. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is making every effort to effectively manage the increased volumes of passengers during this peak period and encourages travellers to keep these five tips in mind.

1. Plan ahead to avoid delays at the land border when you return to Canada from the United States.
The CBSA suggests that you avoid travelling during peak periods, which occur mainly during weekends and statutory holidays, between 2:00 p.m. and midnight. You may also keep track of border wait times by consulting our CBSA Web site or by downloading the mobile app CanBorder.

2. Bring appropriate identification for yourself and for all children travelling with you, regardless of their age. CBSA officers watch closely for missing children and may ask you detailed questions about the children you are travelling with. If you have or share legal custody of the children, have copies of the relevant legal documents, such as custody rights, on hand.

3. Upon your return to Canada, declare all merchandise you have bought and received and have all your receipts on hand. Officers may ask you to show receipts for the goods you have purchased and your hotel receipts to verify the length of your stay outside Canada. Keep all of your receipts together and on hand to avoid unnecessary delays.

4. Know before you go. Certain goods are prohibited or restricted from entering Canada (weapons, certain plant and animal products, health products, firewood, etc.).

5. Be aware of your personal exemptions. Depending on the length of your stay abroad, you may be entitled to certain personal exemptions. Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products may be included in your 48-hour or 7-day exemption, provided you are of legal age. Certain restrictions apply.

For more information, visit the I Declare section on the CBSA website or contact the Border Information Service at 1‑800‑461-9999.

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