How to Have a Smooth Border Crossing Experience With Fewer Delays

With millions of Canadian citizens and visitors travelling across the Canadian border, it’s essential to be well informed of what is expected to ensure a positive and smooth experience. Here are some helpful tips to get you through.

By Dionne Elgie Dionne Elgie grew up in Sault Ste. Marie and has both a deep personal love for this city, and a real passion for the great outdoors.

April 12, 2023

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario is a border town connected to its neighbour city, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Together we offer incredible outdoor experiences, attractions, events, and unique culinary experiences to satisfy every traveller's curiosity.

Being prepared and knowing what to expect is the first line of defense when it comes to a smooth border crossing. A helpful resource will ensure a smooth crossing with fewer delays and unexpected surprises and it's also a great place to find some great deals and opportunities to have some fun while visiting.

general information

What is considered proper identification?

It's important to ensure you have proper identification that meets all of the requirements to travel between countries. You can find out more at the link above!

What can you bring with you?

This is a common question with more travellers. This resource will help clarify what you are permitted and not permitted to bring with you.

Are you travelling with gifts?

The holiday season is quickly approaching and many will be bringing gifts for their loved ones. Find out the best way to travel with gifts and what is expected of you at the border.

Bank of Canada

Daily exchange rates, currency converter, foreign exchange and more.

current border wait times

The best way to plan a trip is to be informed. Find out what the current wait times are here and plan accordingly.

Link to Live Webcam on SooToday

See the border lines live here!

Alcohol and Tabacco Limits

There may be restrictions that are unfamiliar to you in terms of allowable limits on alcohol and tobacco. Find out more here.

Travel Tips

All the travel tips you need to know.

How to save time at the border

Time is a premium for us all. Why wait if you can plan ahead. Here is a helpful resource to get you to your destination faster.

Bringing goods across the border

It's important to declare all good that are crossing the border with you. Visit the link to prevent any confusion, delay or loosing any items you may wish to bring across.

Information for non-Canadians

New entry requirement now in effect. Find out more information about Electronic Travel Authorization, exceptions and more.

We hope you find this helpful, and we look forward to seeing you!

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About Dionne Elgie

Dionne Elgie grew up in Sault Ste. Marie and has a deep personal love for this city, and like many Saultites, a real passion for the great outdoors. Along with her team at DIG (Digital Intelligence Group)—she works with Tourism Sault Ste. Marie to curate compelling travel stories and collect truly useful tour tips that appeal to both local residents and out-of-town visitors. You can contact Dionne at dionne@digdeep.ca—she’d love to hear from you!