The man searched has an Italian name and is a professional gambler, quite a good one too by the way. They probably just thought it suspicious that he declared so much cash that they wanted to check for more. That is my thinking, anyway. Of course he knew the rules and had declared everything properly, but he was still tied up for hours while they checked it out. Of course actual criminals probably don't declare anything and just drive on through without a care.
I will avoid the casino and avoid carrying cash, and as others have advised, before I reserve a rental car, I will ask for permission to go into Canada. Hopefully that's all I need to do.
I will pass some wineries, eh? You interest me strangely. I am getting more and more excited about the proposed trip. :-)
Originally Posted by DavidDTW
I have taken Hertz rentals into Canada a number of times with no problem whatsoever. Since this is a pretty common occurance I doubt any of the other companies have restrictions against it. Nor have I ever had a customs agent ask me about ownership of the vehicle. Occasionally they conduct a search of the trunk and passenger areas, but anything more than that would only happen if they really suspect something is illegal.
FYI, if you drive from Windsor to Pt Pelee through Amherstburg and along the lake, the drive is much nicer than the direct route. You pass a couple of winerys and some nice scenery.