Guide through airport customs

This is for anyone who loves to travel! We have all had those excitement butterflies before boarding our flight to go somewhere new and exciting that we've worked so hard to get to, but sometimes the overwhelming fear of going through customs takes over whether this is your first or tenth time and that's okay. I'm going to give you some helpful tips to ensure it goes smoothly and anxiety free.

Knowing what to expect is crucial. Anytime we as humans do something new we become a little anxious of the unknown. Take the time to research the airport you will be going to, maybe watch a youtube video of someone else doing it. Search up the Do’s and Don'ts of what the country you are going to allows. Remember if you are just there on travel you have nothing to worry about they aren't as interested in people like you. They want smugglers, criminals, ect. Be on your best behavior, making sure you are being polite, respectful and not causing a scene is going to help you stay on a normal radar. If your flights hands out paperwork try to get that done prior to landing. Booking a seat that is closer to the front of the plane can help you get off sooner which can decrease the time you sit in the customs line. Have all the documents you will need ready to go such as passports, documents ect.

Tips upon airport arrival-

Make sure you stand in the correct line- some say international and some say non citizen.

Questions- Dont be taken back by questions they have answer thoroughly and honestly.

Hand over your identification- Passport,visa ect

One of the most important travel and customs tips is to stay orginized have everything you are going to need handy so nothing slows you down.

Some Questions They are likely to ask you-

 What is the purpose of your visit?

They are going to want to know the reason you have came here, and yes vacationing is  a normal and acceptable answer.

Where are you planning on staying? 

Give them the address, hotel, villa ect. They are trying to verify you are being truthful 

How long are you planning on staying?

Give exact dates on an estimate, maybe you planned for two weeks but if you hear back from work it could be three! Just communicate.

Do you have anything to declare?

Answer honestly.  If you're unsure of a medication or something you may have, it's okay to ask.

Be mindful that sometimes you will need to go through customs twice, In order to leave a country and enter a country even if it is your own.

Things not bring through customs:

• Certain fruits

• Illegal substances or narcotics 

• Certain meats

 Things you can bring through customs ( declared) 

• Certain medication 

• Certain alcohols 

Note that customs does have the right to search your belongings 

Make it to your holiday safe and sound and grab a drink because customs can make for a longer travel day. Cheers!