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Traveling in the US: A Pre-Trip Checklist

Traveling in the US: A Pre-Trip Checklist

We're Canadian, and like most Canadians, we love a good deal, a scenic road trip, and politely grumbling about politics. But let's get one thing straight—we're not stepping foot in the United States right now. Not for shopping, not for sunshine, and definitely not for the "land of the free," where border agents interpret your reasons for traveling like tarot cards.

Travel advisories for the USA are on the rise in 2025. The reasons? Civil unrest, unpredictable border crossings, increasing political instability, rising incidents of violent crime and mass shootings.

Travel Warnings Are Piling Up—And It’s Not Just Canada Sounding the Alarm

We're not the only ones tapping the brakes on American road trips. Several of Canada's closest allies are updating their own travel advisories—and let's just say, it's not because of high gas prices or long TSA lines.

Here's what other countries are saying about traveling to the U.S. in 2025:

  • The British government warns its citizens that even minor rule-breaking could lead to arrest or detention, reminding travelers that U.S. authorities enforce entry rules very strictly.
  • The German advisory now states that even with a visa waiver program, entry isn’t guaranteed. This update followed multiple cases of German citizens being refused entry or detained at the U.S. border.
  • Denmark advises transgender travelers to contact the U.S. Consulate General before travel due to growing concerns over state laws targeting LGBTQ+ individuals.
  • Finland issued a similar warning following Trump’s executive order limiting gender recognition rights.
  • Canada's government has also updated its travel advisory USA. Canadians and other foreign nationals visiting for more than 30 days must now register with immigration services.

These aren’t fringe countries. These are G7 partners, NATO allies, and some of America’s strongest supporters. And they’re all warning that traveling to the U.S. in 2025 comes with increased risk.

Let's be honest: if any other country had this level of violence, political unrest, and instability, Canada would issue a full-blown travel advisory. But because it's America, we get mixed messages and diplomatic gymnastics.The rate of firearm possession in the U.S. is high. It's legal in many states for citizens to openly carry firearms in public. Incidents of mass shootings occur, resulting in casualties. Although tourists are rarely involved, there is a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.Canada warns that attacks could occur year-round. Potential targets include government buildings and public events, schools, places of worship, transportation hubs, tourist destinations, restaurants, hotels, shopping centers. Always be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas. Monitor local media and follow local authorities for updates. Oh—and yes, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security maintains a public alert system for terrorism. That's a thing.Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Avoid affected areas, follow evacuation orders if issued, and check relevant state sources for disruptions.Add in weather conditions, active volcanoes, hurricane season, and the risk of being stranded without essential services, and it's starting to sound more like a survival guide than a vacation brochure.Canadians and other foreign nationals visiting the U.S. for more than 30 days must now register with U.S. authorities. This registration requirement is tied to your I-94 form. If you're not automatically registered, you'll need to do it yourself via the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or immigration services portal.Failure to comply could lead to fines, penalties, or misdemeanor prosecution. Basically, they treat an overstayed holiday like a serious violation of national security.Not really. Even if you have your permanent resident card, visa, or travel authorization, you can still be denied entry or refused entry by a CBP officer with little warning or short notice. Just ask Jasmine Mooney, a Canadian with a valid visa who was detained for nearly two weeks. No charges. No legal counsel. Just held in conditions worse than some prisons.This is the reality for travelers with even minor issues—like a criminal record, a flagged medical condition, or not carrying sufficient funds.

What Can Get You Flagged at the Border?

  • Carrying prescription medication without documentation
  • Inadvertently bringing controlled substances
  • Ignoring local laws like drinking alcohol in public
  • Visiting a destination recently impacted by volcanic eruptions or weather reports warning of natural disasters
  • Traveling from certain countries or with unclear educational ties

You’re expected to know the entry requirements, follow emergency procedures, and be able to re-enter Canada with the right paperwork. One wrong move, and you’re out.

Why We’re Avoiding the U.S. (And Why It Matters)

This isn’t just about skipping a trip.It’s about defending your safety.It’s about refusing to normalize a broken system.

So no, we’re not stepping foot in the U.S. right now. But we are stepping up for something better.

Canada, It’s Time to Lead

Canada has a choice. We can cling to fading influence—or we can lead. While others chase culture wars, we can build real bridges.

Because if we don’t take control of our future, Trump, Putin, and the chaos crowd will gladly choose the route for us.

So, Is It Safe to Travel to the U.S. in 2025?

Q: Has Canada issued a travel warning for the U.S.?
A: Yes, Canada has issued a warning about having proper paperwork. It doesn’t outright give a warning, but on the website, it mentions gun violence, terrorism, demonstrations, and mass shootings, and requires Canadians and other foreign nationals staying over 30 days to register.

Q: Can I still be denied entry to the U.S. with a valid visa?
A: Yes. U.S. border protection does not guarantee entry even with valid documents. You can be refused entry by a CBP officer at their discretion.

Q: What are the entry requirements for Canadians visiting the U.S.?
A: You may need travel authorization, proof of sufficient funds, no criminal record, and must comply with all entry rules and state laws. Always check with immigration services and monitor local media for real-time alerts.

Q: What should I do in an emergency?
A: Follow evacuation orders, check weather conditions, and contact the Department of State, consulate general, or nearest Canadian embassy.

Q: Is it safe to rent a car or visit places like San Francisco or New Mexico?
A: While many tourist destinations remain popular, travelers should check for active alerts, protests, or violent crime risks. Always verify local weather reports, obey local laws, and double-check your rental car coverage.

Stay informed. Stay safe. And when in doubt, travel somewhere that doesn’t feel like a gamble.

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