Preparing for Travel

Before you leave:

1. Make sure you have a valid passport or passport card.
   • If you need to apply for a passport or passport card, consult the Dept. of State website for more information.
   • If you are not a US citizen/permanent resident, please ensure you have proper documentation to cross into Canada and return the US. Click here for information about Canadian visitor’s visas. Contact the Office of International Programs if you need assistance.
   • A record of certain civil or criminal offenses may prevent you from crossing the border. 
   • The University of Maine bears no responsibility for refunding trip costs to participants who are refused entry to Canada for any reason.
2. To register, please contact Dr. Mark McLaughlin, organizer of the field trip and professor of the connected CAN 101: Introduction to Canadian Studies course: mark.j.mclaughlin@maine.edu. 
3. Estimate your expenses and exchange enough money into Canadian dollars before leaving. If planning to use a credit or debit card, inform your bank of your upcoming trip to Canada. Be aware of any foreign transaction fees you may incur by using a debit/credit card in Canada.
4. Find out whether your health insurance will cover you in the event of a medical emergency in Canada.
5. Find out what extra charges, if any, your mobile phone carrier may levy if you send or receive calls/texts/data in Canada. We recommend putting your phone on Airplane mode if you do not want to incur international data & roaming costs.
6. Do bring the following items:
   • Valid passport/passport card
   • Cash for meals, souvenirs, and evening activities in Canadian dollars
   • Health insurance card
   • Medication, if needed (clearly marked with original prescription labels)
   • Snacks and entertainment for the van ride to and from Fredericton
   • Suitable clothing, including warm layers and comfortable walking shoes. Mid October temperatures in Fredericton range from 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit but can drop below freezing!
7. DO NOT bring weapons, alcohol, cannabis products, or tobacco/nicotine products. Attempting to cross the border with these items could result in you being left behind!
8. Arrange to be dropped off at the Canadian-American Center (154 College Ave) no later than 7:30AM on Friday, October 25. Those with vehicles must park in the Steam Plant lot or another nearby lot for which you have a valid parking pass.

While you are in Canada:

1. If there is an emergency in Canada, dial 9-1-1.
2. Remember that any charges for laundry, phone calls, room service, etc. at the hotel are YOUR responsibility.
3. The legal age to consume alcohol in Fredericton is 19 years. If you choose to consume alcohol, do so responsibly as we will all be representing the University of Maine during this trip. Please be aware that crossing back into the US with alcohol in your body is considered possession by consumption, and therefore is illegal if you are under 21 years of age!
4. Although the sale and possession of marijuana became legal in Canada as of October 17, 2018, it remains illegal in the United States regardless of Maine state laws, and may be subject to intense scrutiny at the border. Crossing the US-Canada border with marijuana in your body (at any age) is considered possession by consumption and could result in federal legal action. 
5. Keep receipts for anything you purchase in Canada, and know how much you spent during your trip in case you are asked to declare your purchases at the border.
6. Have your passport ready when we return to the border. Crossing back into the US entails a very strict and detailed customs check. Be prepared to answer any questions you are asked with complete honesty.