The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) reminds travelers to plan ahead for their Victoria Day weekend travel plans. The CBSA is expecting higher traffic volumes throughout the holiday weekend, particularly on Sunday, May 20 and Monday, May 21.

The Emerson port of entry is open 24-7 and has the greatest capacity to process large volumes of travelers. During peak hours, all primary inspection lanes will be open and the port will be operating at maximum capacity.

Other border crossings in southern Manitoba are also expected to see larger traffic volumes on the long weekend including Gretna, Winkler and South Junction.

Here are some smart crossing tips:

  1. Beat the border rush. Cross as early in the day as possible.
  2. Keep travel documents handy. Make sure that each passenger has the correct travel document. An officer will scan them.
  3. Know your purchases, know where your receipts are, and know your personal exemptions and restrictions.
  4. Know the contents of your vehicle.
  5. Not sure? Ask the CBSA officer or visit our website.
  6. Traveling with children: CBSA officers watch for missing children, and may ask detailed questions about any accompanying minors. Travelers who share custody of their children should carry a consent letter and contact information for the other parent, so that officers can follow up and confirm details.

CBSA officers in southern Manitoba processed approximately 25,000 travelers over the Victoria Day weekend last year.