• Crossing the Canadian border goes smoothly If you prepare.canadian flag image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com
  
  In recent years, crossing the Canadian border has become a bit more demanding than it has been in the past. You, and everyone in your party, regardless of age, must present a U.S. Passport or Passport Card at the border. The Passport Card costs less than a passport and will let you enter Canada by land or sea, but it is of very limited use for other international travel. There is a third document, available in some places. A very few states and provinces issue what is known as an Enhanced Driver's License that can be used to confirm identity and citizenship. In addition to checking your documentation, the border guard may interview you briefly about your destination, how long you intend to be in Canada and your purpose for the trip. If you have been convicted of a felony, you may be denied entrance into Canada. Note that Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is a felony in Canada.
  
  

Restrictions On What You Can Bring

• You may bring in an amount of personal goods that is reasonable for the length of your planned visit. Some items such as alcohol, tobacco and beef are specifically restricted. Only processed or canned potatoes may be brought into Canada. Liquor is limited to 1.5 L of wine, or 40 oz. of liquor, or 24 bottles of beer (12 oz.). Allowable food products may change, so it is advisable to contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency shortly before planning to enter the country. Rifles or shotguns and up to 200 rounds of ammunition may be brought in if they will be used for hunting and if they are properly registered.
  
  

What You Can't Bring at All

• There are some items you can't bring at all when you cross the border. Live bait is prohibited, as are stun guns, mace, handguns and other restricted weapons, such as semiautomatic weapons. Dog food including beef or sheep by-products, firewood and radar detectors are also prohibited.
  
  

Bring a Note From the Other Parent

• As in the past, if you are a parent traveling with a child under the age of 18 and the other parent is not along on the trip, you will be asked for a signed note from the other parent stating that she or he is aware that you are traveling with the child and that you have his or her permission to do so.