U.S. CBP Warns of Peak Border Traffic Ahead of Memorial Day Travel Weekend 

May 25, 2026 Team Contributor

Cross-Border Congestion Set To Rise

Canadians travelling to the U.S. for the Memorial Day weekend could face major delays at border crossings, on highways, and at airports. The warning comes as the United States prepares for one of its busiest holiday travel periods in years.  

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a travel advisory ahead of the holiday rush, warning that several Canada-U.S. crossings could experience extended wait times from May 21 to May 25.   

The warning comes as the American Automobile Association (AAA) projects that nearly 45 million Americans will travel over the weekend, making it one of the busiest Memorial Day periods in recent years. 

Border routes connecting Ontario with Michigan and New York are expected to see particularly heavy congestion, while crossings in northeastern states such as Vermont are also preparing for increased traffic volumes. 

“Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and for most Americans, it’s a three-day weekend,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “Travel demand remains strong, and despite higher fuel prices, many people are prioritizing leisure travel during holiday breaks.” 

What Travellers Should Prepare Before Crossing 

CBP is encouraging travellers to have all travel documents ready before reaching inspection booths to help reduce delays at ports of entry. Canadians driving into the U.S. are advised to declare: 

• Alcohol and purchased goods 

• Agricultural or food products 

• Currency exceeding USD $10,000 

U.S. authorities also reminded travellers that cannabis remains illegal under federal law in the United States, even if it is legal in parts of Canada or certain U.S. states. Carrying marijuana across the border can still result in penalties or denied entry. 

Peak Travel Times Expected Across U.S. Roads 

US-Canada road trips will dominate Memorial Day travel again this year, with millions expected to drive toward beaches, tourist destinations, and major cities. Travellers can expect the heaviest traffic during the afternoon and early evening hours. 

Expected Traffic Conditions During Memorial Day Weekend 

• Thursday, May 21: Worst from noon–9 p.m.; best after 9 p.m 

• Friday, May 22: Worst from 11 a.m.–8 p.m.; best before 11 a.m  

• Saturday, May 23: Worst from noon–5 p.m.; best before 11 a.m 

• Sunday, May 24: Minimal traffic expected 

• Monday, May 25: Worst from noon–5 p.m.; best before 11 a.m 

Airports Also Preparing for Massive Crowds 

Major U.S. airports are also preparing for packed terminals, longer TSA security lines, and parking shortages as the summer travel season unofficially begins. Canadians flying into the U.S. are being advised to arrive early, monitor flight updates closely, and expect higher passenger volumes throughout the holiday weekend. 

The latest Memorial Day alert comes days after the CBSA warned Canadians about heavier Victoria Day border traffic.

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