One of the most nerve racking part of traveling overseas for many, is not the plane trip but the journey through customs at the airport.
Before going anywhere it is advised you find out what laws the country has, and find out what can’t be taken into their country. Places like Australia have tight regulations on the importation of animal and plant products. If you’re coming back from an exotic place like India or Africa make sure that all your souvenirs follow the regulations. Things like untreated animal skins will not make it through customs. Drugs and drug paraphernalia are definitely something that you would want to leave behind. For certain items you will require permits and special permission to bring into the country.
Make sure all your medications are in their original bottles, and even taking alone a prescription or letter from your doctor would be advisable. Many of the medications from overseas are not FDA approved and would not be allowed back in the country.
Cuban products are absolutely not allowed, even if they aren’t purchased in Cuba. If they are attempted to be bought back into America they will be destroyed.
Be sure to declare everything you have, especially if you are unsure whether you have to, that way there will be less issues when going through security. Saying that you weren’t aware that you had to declare it doesn’t always work and can result in a heavy fine. If they see an illegal item on your declaration you can dispose of it easier than if they find it in your suitcase when they do a security check.
Try to remain calm, and don’t make jokes with the officials. If you remain calm and avoid suspicious behavior chances of you having to go through a security check wont be as high.
Have all your travel documents ready and with you, this will save time and see you on your way to your destination with little issue.