The CBSA Reminds You to Prepare Ahead This Labour Day Long Weekend

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Aug. 29, 2012) - As summer comes to an end, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) wants to help facilitate your border crossing this long weekend. Higher traveller volumes require some planning ahead and the CBSA wants to help you do just that. Keep in mind these tips while travelling this weekend:

- All adults and children who are travelling must have proper identification. Children under the age of 16 can present an original or copy of their birth certificate. If travelling with children, have their identification ready to show (picture ID, birth certificate, passport, etc.) and a letter of permission for any child who is travelling without their parents or with a non-custodial parent.

- Use your NEXUS card and save time at land, air and marine ports of entry when entering Canada or the United States. Visit www.nexus.gc.ca for more information or to apply for a membership.

- A passport is the preferable piece of identification for entry into Canada. Other acceptable identification includes an enhanced driver's licence, a birth certificate with accompanying photo ID such as a regular driver's licence, a permanent resident card, a citizenship card or a certificate of Indian status, a NEXUS card or Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card when travelling by land or boat.

- Know your personal exemptions, including those for alcohol and tobacco. Declare all purchases made (including duty-free purchases), and have your receipts readily available upon your return to Canada.

- If a road trip is more your style, try to plan the time and place you return to Canada in advance ― avoid crossing during peak travel times and consider using other available ports of entry in the area.

- Border wait times for land borders are available at www.cbsa.gc.ca, or follow us on Twitter for hourly border wait time updates at BWT_CBSA.

- We know you are mobile and now we are too. Stay connected with us at www.cbsa.gc.ca/mobile.

- For even more travel tips, watch the CBSA's travel tips video on YouTube.

The CBSA strives to provide the best and most efficient service possible while maintaining the security and prosperity of Canada. If travellers have questions about their interactions with border services officers, they are encouraged to speak to a CBSA superintendent, who can address their questions or concerns at that time. Alternatively, travellers can visit the CBSA Web site and fill out an electronic feedback form, where they can voice comments, complaints and compliments.

Follow us on Twitter (@CanBorder), join us on Facebook or visit our YouTube channel.