see also: in May 2005 Press Releases:   Machine Readable Passports Required for all Visa Waiver Program Travel as of June 26, 2005   CBP Officers Rescue Screaming Woman at Calexico   CBP Border Patrol Intercepts Over 8 Tons of Marijuana   Brazil Will Participate in Container Security Initiative to Screen Cargo Destined for U.S.   U.S. Customs and Border Protection Announces the Arrival of Nine New Puppies   CBP Officers Seize Almost Two Tons of Marijuana at Calexico Port ...more on cbp.gov:   CBP News Releases   Press Officers Travel Section

contacts for this news release

New York, NY— Today, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Robert C. Bonner launched a traveler awareness campaign to kick-off the summer travel season. He was joined by Charles Gargano, Chairman of the Empire State Economic Development Corporation Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Port Authority of NY & NJ; Mark Brown, Executive Vice President of the American Automobile Association (AAA); and, William Maloney, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). The campaign is designed to facilitate travel abroad this summer by U.S. residents.

"U.S. citizens vacationing abroad can make their own travel easier by taking a few extra minutes to 'Know Before You Go,’ ” Commissioner Bonner said. “CBP’s mission is to prevent terrorists and their weapons from the entering the United States with the best ally we have – the well-informed traveler.”

While securing America’s borders, CBP is also the face of the nation for all who travel across our borders. Through its Pledge to Travelers, CBP officers are committed to exemplary conduct in providing services to legitimate travelers. By knowing the regulations and what to expect, travelers can help CBP facilitate their travel safely and securely.

"During this busy summer travel season, please make sure that all of your travel documents are in order and be sure to know the rules for bringing back items from your trip before you depart. It will allow CBP to process your entry quickly and efficiently while avoiding unnecessary delays or problems,” said Commissioner Bonner.

Here are a few travel tips for your trip abroad:

• Your duty-free exemption is $800 if you are a returning U.S. resident and the items you acquired abroad accompany you. There are some exceptions, please check our website for additional information at www.cbp.gov.
• Some food, medical, craftwork and miscellaneous items may be prohibited from entry, have to meet certain requirements, or require a license or permit. If you would like to bring in such items, make sure you find out the rules and regulations concerning them, by checking out www.cbp.gov.
• In order to secure and expedite travel, U.S. citizens will be required to have a passport or other accepted secure document that establishes the bearer’s identity and nationality to enter or re-enter the United States by January 1, 2008.

For more information on the latest travel tips, travelers should read the booklet, Know Before You Go, available at www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/ ( Travel Section ) .

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control, and protection of our Nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.