If you plan to drive to the US from either Canada or Mexico, you must enter the country through a staffed and open port of entry. Any other entry is illegal and can result in deportation or fines. It is always a bad idea to carry illegal drugs and substances over the border.
From Canada. Crossing into the United States from Canada is usually an easy process. However, it can be more difficult depending on who is crossing, what time of day or year it is, and the border guards themselves. There are many crossing points along the US-Canada border, most of which accept both commercial flow and traveler flow. Usually, there is a negligible delay in crossing the border into the US, but some points might be backed up for 10-20min. or more, depending on traffic and weather conditions. For required documents, see Documents and Formalities. Although it is common to cross the border without incident or delay, it is also possible that border guards will want to check your vehicle or your documents. In an effort to decrease the risk of terrorism, both the US and Canada are tightening security measures and routinely performing more random checks during border crossings.
From Mexico. As with the US-Canada border, there are many crossing points along the US-Mexico border. Mexican citizens entering the US are required to present both a passport and a non-immigrant visa upon entry. US citizens returning to the US from Mexico are technically not required to present a passport, but it is best to do so anyway to avoid delays. Travelers who are not citizens of the US or Mexico need the documentation required to enter the US via air in order to cross the overland border. Delays in crossing the US-Mexico border are generally short, but can be longer depending on traffic conditions. Customs and border patrol officials have the right to conduct random searches upon entry, and tightened security measures make these searches even more common.
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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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