Snowbirds: How to Know US Border Wait Times for a Smooth Crossing

You’ve packed your bags, you’re ready to say goodbye to winter, and you’re on your way to the long-awaited warmth of the South. But wait... one last step still separates you from your sunny paradise: crossing the US border by car!

No way will you spend hours staring at your watch, stuck in an endless queue! There are tips, tools, and even a website to make this ordeal much more bearable.

Here’s how you can stay in control (while keeping your good mood) at the Canada-U.S. border!

The border between Canada and the United States stretches 8,891 km, making it the longest land border in the world. So there are tons of checkpoints where you can cross. Choosing the right border crossing can make all the difference!

Step 1: Check the Wait Time Online

Have you ever heard of the Border Wait Times (BWT) site? This handy tool gives you the current wait times at land entry points from Canada to the United States. 

Despite its somewhat old-school look, this website still shares useful and well-organized information. You can check real-time wait times, but also historical data to see when lines are shortest.

Step 2: Use the Web Version Instead of the Mobile App

There is a CBP Border Wait Times app on Google Play and the Apple Store. But before you rush to download it, here’s a little tip: the web version is much more complete!

While the app displays historical data, it doesn’t offer everything the website does. For example, the site lets you see certain stations in real time and consult detailed information on nearby border crossings.

So, if you have access to a computer or if you can open the site directly on your phone, you’ll have a more accurate and up-to-date view of the situation at the border.

In short, opt for the web version—you won’t regret it!

Step 3: Analyze the Different Border Crossings

Another advantage of the BWT web version is that it allows you to compare nearby land entry points. For example, if you want to cross from Niagara Falls and the wait times are long, you can check if going through another nearby post would be faster.

It’s always good to have a backup option. And for those who like visual details, some real-time graphs give you an idea of the queues.

Step 4: Optimize Your Departure Time

Now that you have all these tools at your disposal, it’s time to play the optimization card. You already know that weekends are the worst times to cross, especially around American holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Try to leave on a weekday if possible, and preferably early in the morning, mid-day, or late in the evening. The app and site also allow you to see historical peak wait times over several days, so have a look before planning your departure. Nothing worse than being stuck in traffic behind hundreds of impatient Snowbirds trying to escape the winter!

Step 5: Keep Calm and Prepare Yourself

Now that you’ve planned everything, all you have to do is mentally prepare yourself. Yes, there may be a little wait. Yes, someone in the line in front of you will probably have forgotten some important documents and will block everyone for 10 minutes.

You could also consider the NEXUS program, which simplifies your crossing at US land borders. With a dedicated line for members, you can significantly reduce your wait time when crossing by land.

By enrolling in the NEXUS program, you also benefit from expedited entry at the airport!

Bonus: Share Your Tips With Your Snowbird Friends

You're not alone in this adventure! Share these tips with your Snowbird friends so they, too, can enjoy the road without too much stress. Good preparation is the key to arriving at your destination relaxed and ready to enjoy the sun!

And don't forget to get your travel insurance ahead of time with a quick quote from soNomad to check that off your pre-departure list!

This article is for information purposes only. It does NOT constitute legal, tax, accounting or other advice and should not be relied upon as such. If you require such advice, you should seek the services of a qualified professional to advise you.