WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Customs and Border Protection is encouraging international travelers to plan ahead, verify their travel documents and familiarize themselves with customs requirements as the 2026 holiday travel season approaches.
The agency said travelers can help reduce processing delays at airports and land border crossings by reviewing entry requirements before departure, allowing extra time for inspections and accurately declaring items purchased or obtained abroad.
CBP officers and agriculture specialists work throughout the year, including during the busy holiday season, to facilitate lawful travel and trade while protecting the United States from prohibited goods, agricultural pests and diseases, and other potential threats.
To help travelers avoid delays, penalties and the possible seizure of prohibited items, CBP issued several recommendations for those traveling internationally.
Check travel documents before departure. Travelers should ensure passports, visas and other required documents are valid and have not expired. Those traveling under the Visa Waiver Program must obtain an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization, or ESTA, before traveling.
Use available travel tools. Eligible travelers can use CBP’s Mobile Passport Control program to help streamline entry procedures. The agency also recommends checking its Border Wait Times website and using Ready Lanes at participating border crossings when eligible.
Consider Trusted Traveler Programs. Programs such as Global Entry, NEXUS and SENTRI offer expedited processing for approved, low-risk international travelers. Enrollment requires an application, background check, nonrefundable fee and, when applicable, an in-person interview. Members remain subject to inspection.
Declare all items acquired abroad. Travelers must declare gifts, purchases, food, plants, seeds, soil, biological materials, insects, animal products, alcohol, tobacco and other items brought into the United States. CBP agriculture specialists may inspect or refuse entry to items that do not comply with federal import regulations.
The agency emphasized that declaring an item does not automatically mean it will be prohibited or subject to import duties.
Report currency when required. Travelers carrying $10,000 or more in currency or monetary instruments into or out of the United States must report it to CBP. Failure to comply can result in penalties or seizure of the funds.
Review restrictions on certain products. Travelers should familiarize themselves with regulations governing alcohol, tobacco and prescription medications. CBP recommends keeping prescription medications in their original containers and carrying only the amount necessary for the trip.
Be prepared for inspections. Travelers should provide accurate information about their trips, purchases and belongings when questioned by CBP officers. Anyone who observes suspicious activity should notify CBP, transportation security personnel or local law enforcement.
CBP said its officers and agriculture specialists inspect travelers, baggage, cargo and vehicles to enforce federal laws and prevent prohibited or restricted items from entering the country.
Travelers who fail to declare agricultural products, purchases or currency may face additional inspections, delays, financial penalties or the seizure of prohibited items.
The agency emphasized that properly declaring items allows officers to make informed inspection decisions while helping protect U.S. agriculture and public safety.
Additional information about international travel requirements, prohibited and restricted items, and available travel programs can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
