Cross Border Shopping

Cross border shopping:

As of June 1, 2012 the amount of goods you can buy outside of Canada has changed. For myself, I squeeled in delight. I love going shopping anywhere but to go on a trip across the border and get things for less, well, I'm all over it like an ant on honey. According to the Canada customs website if you stay 24 hours you can bring back $200  worth of items; if you stay an extra night/day, it's raised to $800 . That includes booze and tobacco.  So, you ask, where should I go?  Well, a good choice is Montana, and Kalispell is a lovely choice.  Well, now that I have sold you on Kalispell, I'll just mention how long it will take to drive there. According to google maps, it will take  5 hrs and 36  minutes.  That’s without food, bathroom breaks, sightseeing and border crossing. So, really, I think you should plan for 7 hours.  If you are car pooling and your job is mapping things out, it's better to overestimate the time than under estimate. Nothing is more annoying than expecting a 5 hour drive that really takes 9.  There are also several websites that give the list of stores and malls specifically aimed at those who are venturing across the border for shopping. http://www.crossbordershopping.ca/shopping/kalispell-whitefish-mt, http://www.crossbordershoppingdeals.com/forum/index.php, and, of course, there is good old google that is always helpful.  So, people, get your passports and every valid id you have handy, pack your duffle bags and head for the border.