First, have all of your required paperwork in order and accessible. This includes your passport, travel itinerary, and boarding passes in addition to other documentation related to your belongings. For example, documentation of the purchases you’ve made while in a foreign country can significantly reduce your difficulties.

There are specific rules in place regarding the monetary value of items that you can take back into your own country. Knowing these rules before you travel, and providing paperwork which proves the value of the items you’ve acquired, are very important. You can also request, before leaving your country, a certificate of registration for any belongings which might cause confusion upon your return.

Also, be aware that some items, regardless of value, can’t be taken into the country. Aside from obviously illegal items, like illegal drugs, most plants, raw vegetables and fruits and animals cannot cross borders without special permission.