Domestic travel rises amid U.S border crossing concerns

Canadians are warned to expect extra scrutiny at the American border.

At a time of year when travel and tourism is picking up, more Canadians are ditching their plans across the border and opting for a staycation.

“The inquiries for U.S travel has significantly dropped down as compared to the previous year. We used to see a lot of inquiries for U.S travel but now it’s gone down,” says Zamir Khan, president of TravelPortal, a Halifax-based travel agency.

It comes after the federal government updated its travel advisory on Friday, warning Canadians of possible detention should one be denied entry to the United States.

Richard Kurland, an immigration lawyer and policy analyst, says people can expect tougher questions at the border.

“There’s no longer a free ride into the United States, not when President Trump is playing the tariff game. So, beware for both customs and immigration,” says Kurland.

The government also warned travellers should expect to be heavily questioned and may have their electronic devices searched.

“If you are carrying communication that confirms your specific point of view on your cell, in your computer and social media, you’re fair game for the Americans customs and immigration officers,” says Kurland. “If there is support in any way for a terrorist group as defined by the Americans found in your laptop or your cellphone, you’re out and you may be out permanently.”

Travellers at Halifax Stanfield International Airport say that’s more of a reason for them to stay local.

“It just makes me feel very unsafe, so if I can stay within Canada, that’s where I would definitely stay,” says one traveller.

Kurkland says there are precautions Canadians can take if they decide to fly or drive to the U.S.

“First, clean that car, empty the trunk, empty the glove compartment,” he says. “Second, have a backup. If you can bring in a burner phone instead of your regular cellphone, do it. Third, answer honestly, directly, and quickly to every question.

“Assume nothing.”