Honestly, it was pure coincidence that we planned to study the feasiblity of cross border shopping at the same time that the quadruplets were born. Specifically is it practical for Calgarians to head down to Great Falls and root out some bargains? What was wonderful is the photo of the Benefis hospital  that is currently on our front page (now in our archives).

Before I get into the pros & cons of our shopping trip, I want to point out how the  Charleston Daily Mail makes a pretty interesting point about Calgary's lack of facilities for neonatal care. Their article is titled "Canadians vote with their feet"

So back to the shopping trip. From Calgary to Great Falls it is about a 6 hour drive and that includes a modest wait at the border. Our first savings point is being allowed to go to the duty free store when entering the US. A 1 litre bottle of my favourite rum was only $13.00, compare that to about $28 in Calgary.  For the smokers in the crowd, a carton of cigarettes was about $43, compare that to over $90 at most Calgary retailers. So that was the way in and of course there is the exemption on the way out if you stay over 48 hours. ( we did investigate the 48 hour thing and we were assured by the local duty free shop that the border agents have a computer screen that shows exact entry point and time, so don't even think about trying to do 48 hours in less than 48 hours)

Great Falls has some pretty good selection for shopping. Retailers include Target, Kmart, Walmart Shopko, Albertsons, Sam's Club, Scheel's and so on.  We were especially curious about whether groceries would be something that was cheaper south of the border. Although we didn't carry out a systematic study,by browsing the aisles we got the sense that we wouldn't see much savings by stocking up on items that were allowable by customs.

The bigger savings came from clothes and books and CD's. We purchased various articles at Ross and also at JC Penny. A chain store that isn't yet in Calgary is called Hastings and our teens especially like that store because of the wide selection of music and books.

If you are into hunting then Scheel's is a must stop for you. Huge selection of all things outdoor and a fascinating display of trophies. (see picture inset).

To summarize the shopping trip, we didn't come out ahead when you factor in gas, accomodation and meals but it made for a entertaining and fun weekend that is just in range for Calgarians. 

Don't forget to cruise around town when you are down there. There are numerous older churches and the County court house is also an interesting building. Did I mention the falls? Yes by all means follow River Drive and view the falls. There are four of them and they are great to see.

Update:

Based on our trip, there are 4 major shopping areas in Great Falls. The Holiday Village Mall which is on 10th Ave S and if you are looking for an outlet mall then this is probably it.  The second being on Market Place Dr which is off 14th St. S ( a bit tricky to get onto). Market Place Drive features many of the big box type of stores (similar to a Calgary power centre ie Deerfoot Meadows). The third spot is along the NW Bypass  and there you will find retailers like Sam's Club, Kmart etc. Finally the Great Falls downtown (Central Ave) features many individual stores.

Find information on shopping, tourism and accommodations at our newest site Greatfalls.aroundmontana.com

Eye Popping October Update to Cross Border Shopping

TIP : To get the best exchange rate either bring US cash or use your credit card