U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in San Diego is encouraging travelers to plan their journeys in advance to avoid disruptions during the upcoming Easter holiday. The CBP has released its Top Ten Traveler Tips on the agency's website.
"Easter weekend is traditionally a busy travel period, and we anticipate higher-than-usual volumes at border crossings," expressed Sidney Aki, CBP director of field operations for the San Diego Field Office. He emphasized the importance of planning ahead to help reduce wait times and support border security operations.
Travelers are reminded to carry a Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative-compliant document such as a valid U.S. passport, Trusted Traveler Program card, Enhanced Driver’s License, or Enhanced Tribal Card. These should be readily available for presenting during inspections upon re-entering the United States.
Nonimmigrant visa passport holders requiring an I-94 can conveniently apply and pay through the CBP Home mobile application to facilitate their travel.
To minimize wait times, travelers can monitor Border Wait Times on the CBP website or download the Border Wait Times app available on Apple App Store and Google Play. Wait times are updated hourly to assist in travel planning.
Additionally, CBP reminds travelers that, although medical marijuana may be legal in several states within the U.S., possessing it across borders remains illegal under federal law. Crossing with a prescription is prohibited and may lead to fines or apprehension.
All individuals entering the U.S. are subject to inspection, including potential searches of person, luggage, and vehicles. Cooperation with all inspection procedures and presentation of valid documentation is required.
The agency also encourages frequent international travelers to enroll in the trusted traveler program for smoother cross-border experiences. Detailed information can be found on the Department of Homeland Security website.
CBP, the nation's largest law enforcement organization, has over 65,000 personnel dedicated to safeguarding America through innovation, intelligence, collaboration, and trust, ensuring both travel and trade safety and the nation's economic prosperity.
For further information, travelers can access local and regional CBP social media accounts.
