Know Before you go

Top 10 Traveler Tips

10.  Have all required travel documents for  the         countries you're visiting, as well as identification for re-entry to the U.S.  Passports are required for re-entry to the U.S. by air.  Visit www.travel.state.gov for destination information.

9.    Declare everything you are bringing in from abroad, even if you bought it in duty-free shop.  This merchandise is also subject to U.S. duty fees and other restrictions.

8.    Be cautious when buying something from a street vendor.   Keep in mind the merchandise may be counterfeit and/or unsafe and you may have to surrender it to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

7.    Know that things purchased abroad for personal use or as gifts are eligible for duty exemptions.  If you are bringing them back for resale, they are not exempt.

6.    Know the difference between prohibited merchandise (ivory, tortoise shell products, absinthe, and counterfeit items) and restricted merchandise.

5.    Be aware that many foreign-made medications are FDA approved, and you cannot bring them into the U.S.  Also, when traveling abroad, bring only the amount of medication you will need for your trip.

4.    Don't bring any Cuban-made products into the U.S., no matter where you purchased them.

3.    Don't bring any food into the U.S. without first checking to see if it's permitted.  Also, any and all live birds and bird products, whether for personal of commercial use, may be restricted and/or quarantined.

2.    Understand CBP officers can inspect you and your belongings without a warrant.  This may include your luggage, vehicle, and personal searches, and is meant to enforec our laws as well as protect legitimate travelers.

1.    Read the helpful brochure, 'Know Before You Go,' before traveling.  Print copies may be available online, or view the web version at www.cbp.gov under the Travel Section.