Do I have to pick up my checked bags to go through customs?

Do you pick up checked bags before customs?

Generally, yes, you retrieve checked baggage before customs. It's a process, really.

Think of it like this:

• Arrival & Baggage Claim: You land. You head to baggage claim. No shortcuts!

• Baggage Retrieval: You grab your bag. Finally, freedom, right? Not yet!

• Customs Inspection: Now for customs. Declare everything. Seriously. Always declare that apple.

• Re-check (if applicable): If you have a connecting flight, you often re-check your bag afterward. A minor inconvenience. But it is what it is.

And there you have it. Baggage roulette, international edition. Isn't travel grand? Or maybe not.

Do you go through passport control before or after baggage claim?

Passport control? That's after baggage claim, darling. Unless you're traveling with nothing but the clothes on your back and a truly impressive air of nonchalance – in which case, you’re probably already past security and enjoying a pre-flight mimosa. (I’m slightly jealous, by the way).

Seriously though, baggage claim first. Think of it like this: your luggage is your emotional support system. You need a comforting hug (or at least, your favorite sweater) before facing the judgmental gaze of immigration officials.

Here's the lowdown:

• Baggage Carousel Roulette: Find your airline and flight number – it’s usually plastered on giant screens, screaming your name like a slightly over-enthusiastic flight attendant.
• Passport Control Purgatory: Once you’ve wrestled your suitcase (mine often feels suspiciously heavier on the return trip), proceed to passport control. Prepare for potential awkward small talk with border agents. They are more likely to ask you about your sourdough starter than your actual travel history.
• The Sweet Release: Freedom! Or, the airport Duty Free shop. Whichever you prefer. Last year I scored a fantastically overpriced bottle of locally-sourced olive oil at Heathrow. A total splurge, I know. But worth it.

Pro-tip: Download the airport app. It's less useful than my cat, Mittens, who somehow always knows where I've hidden her favorite catnip mouse, but it might show you the exact location of the baggage carousels.

Do you go through customs or baggage claim first?

Baggage claim first, duh! Then customs. Unless... no checked bags.

• Baggage claim.

• Then, customs.

Wait, what if it's just carry-on?

• Skip baggage claim, right?

• Straight to customs!

My aunt Susan—always overpacking!—she ALWAYS has to go to baggage claim. Poor thing. Remember that time in Cancun 2023? Her suitcase was lost!

Ugh, customs lines are the WORST. I brought a book last time, definitely need a book this time too.

All luggage though... even carry-ons can get searched. So annoying. TSA already pawed through my stuff at JFK! Do they REALLY need to AGAIN? Maybe I should pack lighter. Nah.

• Checked AND carry-on.

• Customs screening.