"You ain't accustomed to going through customs?" Well you will be after this blog.

"Ladies and gentlemen, we have landed at [destination airport]." When those wheels touch the tarmac and the pilot makes that announcement, the applause erupts and we all know the feeling we get. But before you eagerly hop off the plane, you must go through customs, and let me tell you the customs process can be confusing, even for seasoned travelers. Every airport is different, and while the processes are generally the same, if you haven't done it, this is irrelevant. Of course, you can do your research, but why? That's what BreeLeaves is for.

FAQ about the Customs process.

1. How long does it take to get through customs?

That is subject to airport politics, it could be 15 minutes or longer. Just depend on how many flights have arrived and are going through the same process.

1. Do I have to go through customs for a connecting flight?

As long as you’re not leaving the airport, your bags are checked through to your final destination and you have a boarding pass for your next flight, you won’t have to go through customs. You may have to go through additional security screening, the signs at the airport will direct you.

1. Do I need to recheck my bag?

If your connecting airport is in the same country as your final airport, you’ll likely need to claim your bags and re-check them, causing you to go through customs in the process. Then you’ll transfer to a domestic terminal, and you won’t have to go through customs again at your final destination.

1. What do I need?

At a minimum, you’ll need your passport and a valid visa (if the country you are visiting requires it)

THE PROCESS

FILL OUT YOUR CUSTOMS FORM (Keep a pen in your bag)

On many international flights to the US, the flight attendants will hand out customs forms on the plane, before you disembark. If you didn’t get one, don’t worry you can fill it out once you arrive. But it's just easier to have the form completed before you leave the plan.

You’ll need your passport number and flight number, so make sure you have those handy. Keep your boarding pass AND Passport close by so you can quickly access these.

HEAD TO PASSPORT CONTROL

Follow the signs for passport control. Customs and immigration control are combined in the United States, so you’ll need your passport, visa, and customs form. The lines at passport control are based on the country where your passport was issued. If you’re a US citizen, you still need to go through customs, but you’ll get in a different line than an EU citizen. If you are coming back to the US, I am not even going to tell you the process I don't know- I have global entry, and before that, I used Mobile Passport (check it out it's like Global Entry but Free)

You’ll give the officer your passport and customs form, which they will verify and return to you. They will ask you questions about why you’re coming into the country, where you’re staying, and how long you’re staying. They only ask because they have to, and they waive you on your way.

CLAIM YOUR LUGGAGE AND CLEAR CUSTOMS

After passport control, you’ll claim your luggage and make your way to customs. If you have nothing to declare, you can get in a line with a green arrow. If you have goods to declare, get in a line with a red arrow.

ENJOY YOUR TRIP

Once you clear customs, you’re good to go! Take your bags and make your way to the lobby, where you can catch your ride to your final destination. Enjoy your trip!