Considering heading to Alaska in our 45 foot coach. We will spend two months minimum if we go. Concerned about Canada's restrictive policies on firearms, dogs (we have 3), and alcohol (we are not heavy drinkers but do enjoy a variety of mixed drinks so we have a well stocked "liquor cabinet").I don't feel comfortable traveling without the means of protecting ourselves and have always heard that carrying a gun in the Alaska wilderness is strongly suggested. However, I am not paranoid or an extremist on this...just like to be prepared in these crazy times.We tow a full size pick up and have our Harley in the back. It is very solid and stable but is this too much to take over the highways heading North?We would love to have another couple join us but I imagine it is unlikely to find people with as much flexibility and spontaneity as we have. However, if you read this and are intrigued...lets talk!Any advice is welcome.

You will pay a duty for the `well stocked liquor'. Bear spray may be a good investment but I'd buy it up there because we weren't allowed to carry ours into Canada.

I totally understand your feelings on having a weapon on-board but do NOT, under ANY circumstances, try to bring it over the border into Canada! Each time I cross the border, I really get the 3rd degree from Canadian Customs officers. They will ask you the same thing, over and over again, only phrased just a bit different each time to throw you off in an attempt to get at the truth. I've often wondered if it's a consequence of having Idaho license plates.You are driving to Alaska to enjoy yourselves, NOT to be sitting in a jail cell wondering how the Canadian legal system will treat you, just because you wanted a little "protection". Ain't worth it, my friend. Just some friendly advice.

We did this trip 3 years ago and will most likely do it again. The only change is that we will most likely do it solo. Traveling in groups can lead to un-planned problems. We did the trip in a 33 ft fifth wheel we had at the time. A 45 foot MH is on the large side but not a deal breaker. A little advance planning will be needed as most rigs that size make it a little tight in some places but no impossible.As far as guns are concerned, leave them home. You don't need them and will get into trouble entering Canada. If you feel you really need a firearm in Alaska, just buy one when you get there and then have it shipped home before you come back through Canada. Most all of the wild animals you will encounter want nothing to do with you.There is plenty of liquor available in Canada. If you try and bring too much through they will charge you import duty.Keith

Leave weapons at home!Get a certificate for your dogs showing vaccines and description of the dog. Little collar tags will not do.Your liqueur should not be an issue if seals are broken. and you have a couple bottles. Remember to declare it!Great time to go! Time is good for seeing much of the state.

I received this same advice from a friend who tried it and got caught! Thanks for the advice because I am the type who sometimes "questions" stupid rules and might be tempted to break them. Not in this case however...I will follow the rules!ParkCountry wrote:I totally understand your feelings on having a weapon on-board but do NOT, under ANY circumstances, try to bring it over the border into Canada! Each time I cross the border, I really get the 3rd degree from Canadian Customs officers. They will ask you the same thing, over and over again, only phrased just a bit different each time to throw you off in an attempt to get at the truth. I've often wondered if it's a consequence of having Idaho license plates.You are driving to Alaska to enjoy yourselves, NOT to be sitting in a jail cell wondering how the Canadian legal system will treat you, just because you wanted a little "protection". Ain't worth it, my friend. Just some friendly advice.

Alaska or Not? | Good Sam Community

55 Replies

FreeIndeedJ836
Explorer
Jun 29, 2014
I received this same advice from a friend who tried it and got caught! Thanks for the advice because I am the type who sometimes "questions" stupid rules and might be tempted to break them. Not in this case however...I will follow the rules!

ParkCountry wrote:
I totally understand your feelings on having a weapon on-board but do NOT, under ANY circumstances, try to bring it over the border into Canada! Each time I cross the border, I really get the 3rd degree from Canadian Customs officers. They will ask you the same thing, over and over again, only phrased just a bit different each time to throw you off in an attempt to get at the truth. I've often wondered if it's a consequence of having Idaho license plates.

You are driving to Alaska to enjoy yourselves, NOT to be sitting in a jail cell wondering how the Canadian legal system will treat you, just because you wanted a little "protection". Ain't worth it, my friend. Just some friendly advice.
enblethen
Nomad
Jun 29, 2014
Leave weapons at home!
Get a certificate for your dogs showing vaccines and description of the dog. Little collar tags will not do.
Your liqueur should not be an issue if seals are broken. and you have a couple bottles. Remember to declare it!
Great time to go! Time is good for seeing much of the state.
kedanie
Explorer II
Jun 29, 2014
We did this trip 3 years ago and will most likely do it again. The only change is that we will most likely do it solo. Traveling in groups can lead to un-planned problems. We did the trip in a 33 ft fifth wheel we had at the time. A 45 foot MH is on the large side but not a deal breaker. A little advance planning will be needed as most rigs that size make it a little tight in some places but no impossible.

As far as guns are concerned, leave them home. You don't need them and will get into trouble entering Canada. If you feel you really need a firearm in Alaska, just buy one when you get there and then have it shipped home before you come back through Canada. Most all of the wild animals you will encounter want nothing to do with you.

There is plenty of liquor available in Canada. If you try and bring too much through they will charge you import duty.

Keith
ParkCountry
Explorer II
Jun 29, 2014
I totally understand your feelings on having a weapon on-board but do NOT, under ANY circumstances, try to bring it over the border into Canada! Each time I cross the border, I really get the 3rd degree from Canadian Customs officers. They will ask you the same thing, over and over again, only phrased just a bit different each time to throw you off in an attempt to get at the truth. I've often wondered if it's a consequence of having Idaho license plates.

You are driving to Alaska to enjoy yourselves, NOT to be sitting in a jail cell wondering how the Canadian legal system will treat you, just because you wanted a little "protection". Ain't worth it, my friend. Just some friendly advice.
Dick_B
Explorer
Jun 29, 2014
You will pay a duty for the `well stocked liquor'. Bear spray may be a good investment but I'd buy it up there because we weren't allowed to carry ours into Canada.

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Alaska or Not?

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