Today we said good-bye to our 2004 Corsair Excella, it sold to a very nice couple from Osoyoos, who we just might see again in Yuma!  Tomorrow we bring the new one home.

BRrrrr….Very cold here in B.C. this weekend and next week. Our countdown is on and, in a few short weeks we’ll be on our way. We have had some friends leave last Wednesday and some other friends are leaving on Sunday. In other years, we were left behind, but not this year. Looking forward to the adventure, seeing our friends in Arizona, and meeting new ones.

These are the things you must be aware of before leaving Canada, and items you must get prepared for.

PASSPORTS – Make sure your passports are current, and  that the expiry date is well passed the date of your return to Canada. I’ve heard that the should be valid at least 4 months beyond your return date. ( I will try to confirm and edit this post later )

BORDER BINDER – It is highly recommended you create and maintain a binder containing at minimum, the following information.

• A photocopy of your passport in case originals are stolen or lost.
• A photocopy of a couple of recent utility bills. This helps prove residency.
• A photocopy of recent property assessment or property tax statement.
• A photocopy of Drivers Liscense.
• A copy of Medical Insurance.
• A copy of reservation confirmations. This shows you have a destination booked.
• A copy of any US Bank Account information if you have any.
• A single page, yearly calendar, with out of country dates highlighted. Keep current.
• This is also a good place to keep all emergency phone numbers, both local and at home in case you need to call Medical insurance, Vehicle or RV insurance , cancel credit cards, contact financial people both Home and Away.

MEDICAL INSURANCE – Please don’t forget this. I hope to do a separate page in the near future on this subject. We purchased our insurance from Medipac. By doing this online and in the summer, we save $$$ on their early bird special discount. I’m sure the cost differ from each carrier, so check out a few options before you make your purchase.

RV PREPARATION – As our trailer is a 2004 model, I took a few extra precautions over and above normal maintenance. I had the Bearings and Brakes checked and serviced, and while the wheels were off the trailer, I took the them to Kal-Tire to have new rubber put on. As the Brakes are Electric, and not hydraulic, I took the trailer to a place that specializes in electric brakes, so they could check the whole system.

VEHICLE PREPARATION – As above, Tires and Brakes are a must to check/replace/repair. Also a servicing just before you leave is recommended to the all fluids and systems are in good shape, not just for the trip south but also the return journey as well.