Belongings

• Anything brought back to the U.S. must be declared. Some items will require duties, which is a fee similar to a tax that varies according to the item. Travelers should keep all receipts of transactions abroad and hold these items in a separate bag for passing through customs. Certain products -- such as particular foods and medications -- are either prohibited or restricted from entering the U.S.
  
  

Immunizations

• Certain immunizations are required before traveling abroad and this varies by country. Ideally one should set this up four to six months before the trip.
  
  

Passports

• All United States citizens traveling internationally, including to Canada and Mexico, must have a passport issued by the State Department. Applications are at the local post office and maybe the library and your court's clerk office. Other requirements, depending on the country, may include a visa, a flight itinerary or onward travel.