Traveling Abroad

common sense for international travel

When flying all US citizens must present a passport or other approved travel document when entering the US.

When traveling by air you should contact the airport to see what the wait time will be. You might have to go through screening which can take time. Remember that this time does not include navigating through the airport or your baggage pickup. You will need to be sure to make allowances for that to keep from missing your flight.

If you are traveling by land or sea across the border then you must have a document that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative such as a passport.

Agricultural items may not be brought into the US in your baggage. Meats, fruits, vegetables, plant, soil and any products made from animal or plant material may not be brought back home. These items might carry animal and plant pests and diseases.

Tips when traveling abroad-

-Do not bring food into the US without checking to see if it's allowed.

-No Cuban made products are allowed in the US regardless of where they are purchased.

-Be sure to bring with you enough medications for your trip in the original container. You cannot bring foreign made medications into the US.

-Gifts and personal use items bought abroad are eligible for duty exemptions.

-Be careful when purchasing from street vendors. You may have to surrender items bought from them to US Customs and Border Protection because they may be counterfeit or unsafe.

-Bring an envelope for all of the receipts of purchased items in order to make it easier to declare everything you are bringing.
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