possibly traveling to canada?

My family is considering traveling to British Columbia in August. We want to know if a passport is necessary for a 1-week trip.

Yes, if you are coming in from the US.
I don't know about other countries, but I woudl assume that if they now require a passport from the US, then it's likely they require one from just about anywhere.

It is now to be safe, especiall if you have kids you want to bring back

These other answers are WRONG. A passport to go to Canada from the US is NOT needed yet and vise versa. Citizens and permanent residents of Canada and US only need birth certificate and drivers license picture ID to travel between the 2 countries. As of 2008 or 2009 depending on if the post-ponement goes into affect, then a passport will be required.

Depends what your citizenship is. Check with the nearest Canadian Consulate to find out if you need a passport and or visa.

It is a good idea to bring your Passports.

Passports are not necessary for US citizens to visit Canada.


http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/regional/regional_1170.html
You will, however, need:

1.
Proof of your U.S. citizenship such as your U.S. passport or certified copy of your birth certificate issued by the city, county or state in the U.S. where you were born. If you are a naturalized U.S. citizen and do not have a passport, you should travel with your naturalization certificate. A driver’s license, voter’s registration card or Social Security card is NOT valid proof of citizenship.
2.
Photo identification, such as a current, valid driver’s license.



This MIGHT change next year.
The PROPOSED implementation timeline is as follows:

*
December 31, 2006 – Passport required for all air and sea travel to or from Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda.
* December 31, 2007 – Passport required for all land border crossings, as well as air and sea travel.