A weekend in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula can be an easy escape from Ontario. From Sault Ste. Marie, the International Bridge takes you straight into the US, with fishing spots, hiking trails, and the Soo Locks waiting on the other side.
But crossing the border involves a few details you’ll want to sort out first. A little preparation before you leave can save you from dealing with avoidable problems on the road. Here’s what to check before your trip.
1. Bring the Right Documents for a Smooth Crossing
Before driving into Michigan, check which travel documents you and your family need. Canadian citizens entering the US by land can generally use a valid passport, NEXUS card, or enhanced driver’s license. Requirements vary depending on how you travel, so check the latest guidance from US Customs and Border Protection.
2. Pack Extra Paperwork If You’re Traveling With Kids
If you’re crossing the US border with children who aren’t traveling with both parents, bring a signed consent letter from the absent parent or guardian. Border officers may ask to see it before allowing you to continue.
Keep the letter and any other required documents in your glove box or another easy-to-reach place. You don’t want to search through your luggage at the checkpoint.
3. Set Up US Data Before You Leave Home
Phone service in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is usually reliable near towns, but coverage can vary along rural roads. Your Canadian phone plan may also charge international roaming fees, especially when you use data for directions, messages, or photos.
A travel eSIM for the USA lets you arrange mobile data before crossing the border. You can install it through the aloSIM app without handling a physical SIM card. Choose a prepaid plan based on how much data you expect to use.
Set up your eSIM before leaving home so you’re ready to connect when you arrive.
4. Carry a Card That Works Across the Border
Canadian and US dollars are different currencies, so check whether your card charges foreign transaction fees before you leave. A card with no extra fees can help you save on everyday purchases.
Carry a small amount of US cash, too. Some businesses in smaller Upper Peninsula towns may prefer cash, and card readers can be unreliable in rural areas. Most petrol stations and diners accept credit cards, but having a backup payment option gives you more flexibility on the road.
5. Budget for US Tipping Norms
Tipping works differently in the US. At restaurants, servers generally expect a tip of around 15% to 20% of the bill. Keep this in mind when planning your travel budget, especially if you expect to eat at several sit-down restaurants during your trip.
6. Map Your Route Before You Drive North
Towns in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula can be far apart, with fewer petrol stations, restaurants, and reliable phone service between them. Plan your route before you leave. Download maps to your phone so you can still navigate if your connection drops.
If you’re crossing from Ontario, Sault Ste. Marie is a common entry point into the Upper Peninsula. Consider stopping there before continuing north. If you plan to visit the Soo Locks, check Exploring the North’s guide for information on parking, timing, and what to expect.
7. Prepare for Remote Roads and Changing Weather
Weather around Lake Superior can change quickly, even in summer. Pack layers and check the forecast before you leave. Since phone service can drop between towns, download offline maps or bring a paper map as a backup.
Bring a portable charger, too. Hiking trails and scenic stops can leave you away from an outlet for hours. Keep your tank at least partly full and refuel when you pass a gas station, since some stretches of highway have few places to stop.
A little preparation can keep small problems from taking over your trip. With the practical details sorted, you can spend more time exploring the Soo Locks, trails, and other parts of the Upper Peninsula.
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