Holiday travel week is here, whether you’re leaving tomorrow or next week.  These final preparations separate smooth crossings from holiday disasters.

Real-Time Information Monitoring

Don’t rely on information from days ago. Current conditions change constantly during holidays.

Check before departing:

  • Border wait times (CBP Border Wait Times app)
  • Weather forecasts for entire route including border area
  • Traffic conditions on approach routes
  • Any emergency closures or delays
  • Special alerts for your crossing point

Timing considerations:

  • Check wait times immediately before leaving, not morning of travel day
  • Weather can change drastically in hours
  • Accidents cause instant backups
  • Officer staffing varies by time of day

Technology setup:

  • Download border wait times app
  • Enable weather alerts for crossing area
  • Set up traffic notifications
  • Verify international calling works
  • Charge all devices fully and bring backup power

Weather Contingency Planning

Winter weather creates unpredictable complications.

Final weather checks:

  • Review forecasts from multiple sources
  • Check conditions at border, not just your location
  • Monitor wind chill and extreme cold warnings
  • Watch for winter storm warnings on travel day
  • Consider postponing if severe weather forecast

Have ready:

  • Alternate routes identified
  • Later departure flexibility if conditions worsen
  • Emergency supplies for vehicle (blankets, water, food, first aid)
  • Warm clothing accessible, not packed away
  • Fully charged phone with car charging capability

Documentation Quick-Check

Perform final verification of all documents.

Must have accessible:

  • Passports (check expiration dates one final time)
  • Enhanced driver’s licenses or other approved documents
  • Children’s documentation
  • Vehicle registration and insurance proof
  • Pet documentation if applicable
  • Any special permits or authorizations

Organization:

  • Documents in waterproof folder or bag
  • Readily accessible, not buried in luggage
  • Digital copies on phone
  • Physical copies separate from originals
  • Emergency contact has copies

Declaration Final Review

Know exactly what you’re declaring before reaching the border.

Review what you’re bringing:

  • All food items (even if you think they’re allowed)
  • Gifts and purchases value
  • Cash and monetary instruments over $10,000
  • Medications (carry in original containers)
  • Business documents or equipment

Common last-minute mistakes:

  • Adding items to vehicle without updating mental declaration
  • Forgetting about food in coolers or bags
  • Not accounting for gifts others put in your vehicle
  • Failing to declare items because they were gifts to you

Prepare declaration:

  • Write list if helpful
  • Know total value of items
  • Have receipts readily available
  • Understand what each item is (don’t just say “food”)

Vehicle Preparation

Final vehicle checks prevent problems during crossings and waits.

Mechanical verification:

  • Full tank of gas
  • Oil and fluids topped off
  • Tire pressure checked (including spare)
  • Wipers and windshield washer fluid
  • Emergency kit inspected and accessible

Interior preparation:

  • Clean interior (makes inspection easier)
  • Organize luggage for potential inspection
  • Remove unnecessary items from vehicle
  • Keep valuables secure but accessible if needed
  • Have space for officers to look if requested

Technology and Communication

Ensure you can communicate and access information throughout journey.

Phone setup:

  • Fully charged before departure
  • International calling capability verified
  • Roaming settings configured appropriately
  • Important numbers saved and also written down
  • Backup power source charged

Key numbers to have:

  • US embassy/consulate at destination
  • Emergency contacts at home
  • Travel insurance emergency line
  • Bank international fraud departments
  • CBP information line if questions arise

Prohibited Items Final Check

Do final walk-through to ensure nothing prohibited is packed.

Common last-minute catches:

  • Weapons or self-defense items
  • Excess alcohol
  • Prohibited foods added at last minute
  • Items others put in your vehicle
  • Medications in quantities exceeding limits

Mental and Physical Preparation

Prepare yourself for potential challenges.

Mindset preparation:

  • Accept that waits are normal during holidays
  • Plan for crossing to take longer than normal
  • Don’t schedule tight timelines at destination
  • Prepare patience for process
  • Understand officers are working high-stress conditions too

Physical preparation:

  • Well-rested for travel day
  • Snacks and water for potential waits
  • Medications taken as needed
  • Comfortable clothing for long waits if necessary
  • Bathroom stop before approaching border

Rights and Procedures Review

Refresh understanding of border crossing procedures.

Know your rights:

  • What questions you must answer
  • What searches officers can conduct
  • When you can decline requests
  • How to request supervisor if concerns arise
  • Documentation of encounter if problems occur

Know your obligations:

  • Must stop at all checkpoints
  • Must truthfully answer certain questions
  • Must allow certain searches
  • Must declare all required items
  • Must provide requested documentation

Emergency Contact Coordination

Ensure someone at home knows your plans and can help if needed.

Share with emergency contact:

  • Complete travel itinerary
  • Crossing point and expected timing
  • Accommodation information
  • Vehicle description and plate
  • Copies of all important documents
  • Agreement on check-in schedule

Stress Management

Holiday border crossings create stress. Manage it proactively.

Strategies:

  • Build extra time into schedule
  • Have entertainment ready for waits
  • Practice patience exercises
  • Don’t take frustrations out on officers or traveling companions
  • Remember that delays, while frustrating, are temporary

Final Checklist Review

Before departing, verify:

  • Border wait times checked
  • Weather forecast reviewed
  • All documents accessible
  • Declaration prepared
  • Vehicle ready
  • Technology charged and configured
  • Emergency contacts informed
  • Backup plans identified
  • Realistic timeline set
  • Patience packed

When Things Don’t Go As Planned

Despite best preparation, complications arise.

If selected for additional screening:

  • Remain calm and cooperative
  • Answer questions honestly and completely
  • Don’t argue with officers
  • Request clarification if confused
  • Document experience if concerns arise

If problems with documents:

  • Explain situation clearly
  • Provide any supporting documentation available
  • Accept decisions professionally
  • Have backup plans ready

If major delays occur:

  • Update contacts about delays
  • Modify destination plans as needed
  • Remain safe during extended waits
  • Don’t take risks trying to make up time

You’ve Prepared

If you’ve followed these guides throughout the holiday season:

  • You understand current requirements
  • Your documentation is in order
  • You know what to declare
  • You have contingency plans ready
  • You’re mentally prepared for potential challenges

Execute your preparation with confidence. Safe travels this holiday season.