Crossing into Canada at Callis, what should we expect?

In New Brunswick there are no tolls, so it's a free pass.

If you go to PEI there is no toll island bound, you pay to leave the island. I don't think the Fixed Link bridge recognizes EZ pass but here is the website: https://www.straitpass.com/default.aspx

In Nova Scotia the only highway toll is on the Cobequid Pass, part of Highway 104, which is the Trans Canada Highway through Northern Nova Scotia and directly between you and Halifax. Here's what their website says:

"No, currently E-Z Pass transponders do not work on the maritime toll facilities. A different type of transponder is required and a separate account for each maritime toll facility."

There are two toll bridges in Halifax as well, No EZ Pass. Tolls are $1.00 per car, I never drive my motorhome across them as they lead directly into major traffic. If you are driving your rig explore ways around them.

Credit Cards are accepted everywhere so your need for cash will be limited. I advise that you buy the small amount of cash you need from your bank as retailers here are all over the map when it comes to that issue. You need cash for the Cobequid Pass. With your 5th wheel it will be $5.25 CDN each way.

I should mention that when in Nova Scotia the beer requested should be "Alexander Keith's" or Keith's. Moosehead is still acceptable there but the bar tender might squint at you with one eye, in order to really check you out, if you order anything "from away"

I am truly sorry for the spelling of Saint John, but on closer examination, I used 's not just s, meaning "belonging to John! As for the st. Instead of Saint, one finger typing on your I pad tends to make you take short cuts! Lol! One final question though, what about tolls? I have EZ Pass, is that accepted? Thanks again, you all have been helpful

I stopped crossing at Calais.

I've found Houlton is "friendly"

You have your passports, no weapons that won't pass CDN Border rules, checked for the latest foods you can or cannot take across, no firewood, no criminal convictions for anyone in the party? I think you are good to go.

EXCEPT if they are checking every "nth" vehicle and you are the nth vehicle. Both sides are usually very courteous and as efficient as possible. I've crossed that border many times, both in an RV and in a regular vehicle with only 2 exceptions to the above. One was just a freak reason (long story) any one was they were checking every "nth" vehicle and we where the "nth" vehicle.

We've crossed twice in the last month. Once at the original border crossing and once at the new one. Both times less then 5 minutes.

Not to be too picky but it's "Saint John" No abbreviation of the word Saint and no final "s". It is spelled that way to distinguish it from St. John's NFLD.

While here remember to never add the "s" to the end of the name else be prepared for a friendly reminder from locals. They will be quick to correct any incorrect abbreviation of the "Saint" as well.

Now armed with this local knowledge you can fit in perfectly with the locals provided you remember a couple of rules about beer. When asked what kind of beer you want there are only two correct answers, Moosehead or Alpine. Moose Green is somewhat acceptable in urban areas as well. All three beers are made by the same brewery and despite years of consumption I think all three are really the same beer, just in different colour bottles.

I personally like the Moose Green, unless deer hunting, then Alpine is mandatory.

Do not expect a hard time at the border, we love visitors and we have a whole industry established to welcome folks. Just be prepared - when you hear yourself described as a tortoise people aren't really calling you a turtle, it's just the local dialect pronunciation of the word tourist.

All joking aside, when you cross the border I highly recommend you include a couple of nights in St. Andrews (abbreviation allowed in this case). Stay at the Kiwanis Ocean Front Campground. It is so scenic and although not technically ocean front, there is a local street between the campground and the water, you can have a unrestricted view of the very pretty Passamaquoddy Bay.

The campground is within walking distance of restaurants serving fresh seafood. The downtown is very unique with some buildings dating back to the late 1700's.

Hope you enjoy your visit.

Safe travels.

They just opened a new Customs crossing a few years back. Its a little up river from Calais \St Stephen but its a much larger facility.
JM2CW

It's been a few years since we crossed the border at Calais ME.
It was no problem, I was asked two questions, why we were visiting and how long are we staying. It was quick and easy.
Returning to the USA at the same location was also simple.
My only complaint was the fairly long wait in line which I assume is normal.

It Saint John not St. John's o/w you'd be in Newfoundland. Lol

You have your passports, no weapons that won't pass CDN Border rules, checked for the latest foods you can or cannot take across, no firewood, no criminal convictions for anyone in the party? I think you are good to go.


Gary Haupt