Travel between Canada and the United States used to be easy but since 9/11 governments have made the decision to crack down and be tougher at the borders. Therefore it is a very wise idea for travelers to have a
passport. I know that here in Canada getting a passport can be a long, expensive process and I got one in 2003. It has never been used but I intend on keeping in current even if I am dreading having to go through the process of renewing it in 2010.