Canada and the USA in One Trip: How to Plan a Cross-Border Journey

Canada and the United States share the longest international land border in the world, and many of the most interesting itineraries cross it. With a little planning, two countries fit naturally into one trip.

Popular cross-border routes

• The East: New York, Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City.
• The West: Seattle, Vancouver, Victoria and the Canadian Rockies.
• New England and Eastern Canada: Boston, Maine and the Maritime provinces.

Entry documents

Requirements depend on your nationality and how you travel. Some visitors need a visa for one or both countries, while others need an electronic travel authorisation, such as Canada’s eTA for air travel or the U.S. ESTA. Rules change, so always check the official government websites of both countries well before you travel.

Crossing by land, air or sea

Land crossings are common on road trips, especially around Niagara and between Vancouver and Seattle. Allow extra time at busy crossings, particularly on weekends and holidays.

Practical tips

• Check that your rental car or tour transport is permitted to cross the border.
• Carry your passport and travel documents in your hand luggage, not your suitcase.
• Travel insurance that covers both countries is strongly recommended.
• Remember that Canada uses Canadian dollars and kilometres, while the U.S. uses U.S. dollars and miles.

Let us handle the details

Coordinating hotels, transport and timing across two countries is where a planner makes the biggest difference.

Plan it with Canusa

Every trip we arrange is built around your dates, your group and your pace. Tell us when you would like to travel and what you hope to see, and we will send you a tailored itinerary and quote.

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