Snowbird-Part 1

Not the Anne Murray song nor the southern migration of a bird of flight.  Rather, the term commonly associated with border crossing Canadians in search of sun for a good part of the year.
Depending upon who you talk to it is either that enviable time you dream about or a time fraught with pitfalls, problems and unplanned emergencies in a foreign country.
For simplicity, this article is for Canadians travelling only to the United States and back for an extended period of time and summarizes general information versus being a detailed guide.
A myriad of issues presents themselves when you venture south of the 49
th
parallel.  What about travelling with pets?  How to refill prescriptions?  Those that fare the best are those that educate themselves in advance and stay organized.
While the newer versions of enhanced driving licenses are fine for day-trippers only a passport or Nexus card ensures you can board a flight home in an emergency.  If driving, check with your Autoplan agent for limitations of coverages and if renting, Roadstar is worthy.   You might want to also consider an upgrade to your automobile association’s coverages especially if you are towing a trailer.
BC Medical travels with you but won’t put much of a dent in the costs you will be responsible for if you need it.  If you have extended health benefits review their limitations.  Travel insurance should be considered but the interpretation of “pre-existing” conditions differs from company to company.  Do your research and make phone calls for specific interpretations in advance.
Showing up at the border prepared is a good idea.  You should be familiar with both the rules for entry into the U.S. and your re-entry back into Canada.  Pre-register your goods with the CBSA prior to departure.  No fun having to justify an RV full of electronics and expensive jewellery upon returning to the home of the true north, strong and free.
I’m guessing that you can find suitable alternative spirits given the cost savings due south.  Harder to adjust to giving up your favourite brand of cigarettes.  Before loading the trunk with a 6 month’s supply you might want to consider a visit to duty-free and declaration.  Better than fines and seizure.
Stop or re-route your mail, subscriptions and newspapers.  Review your household insurance coverage with your agent before locking the door.  Pipes can and will burst, power outages affect freezers, roofs can develop leaks so a regular walk-through is always a good idea and likely necessary for your coverage to be valid.
All this and you haven’t even left the country…