Through the X-Ray: What Customs Officers Really Spot

1) What’s the most unusual item you’ve ever seen in a passenger’s luggage?

Anything from false bottoms to exotic items not generally permitted in the U.S. One lady had a wooden container filled with larvae. That was confiscated and disposed of.

2) Why do some bags get scanned multiple times while others go through smoothly?

The selection process is partly random. Sometimes, we choose a bag for additional screening randomly. Other times, the scanner detects an anomaly, something that doesn’t quite look right, which prompts us to take a closer look. It could be an item we can’t identify or something that appears to be hidden. In those cases, we might scan the bag multiple times or open it for inspection.

3) Do you have to open suitcases often, or do the scanners do most of the work?

We usually open suitcases only if the scanner detects an anomaly, like an item we can’t identify or a possible false bottom.

4) Are there any everyday items that people don’t realize can cause trouble at customs?

Perishable foods can be an issue, along with other items that raise red flags.

5) Do customs officers have a sixth sense for spotting suspicious travelers, or is it all about technology?

We mainly look for behavioral patterns, such as undue nervousness, evasive answers, or inconsistencies in a traveler’s story.

6) What’s a common mistake travelers make that slows them down at customs?

Forgetting about their passport expiration dates. If your passport is close to expiring, renew it ahead of time to avoid issues at customs.

7) Is there a “lucky outfit” that helps you breeze through security, or does that not matter at all?

No, your outfit doesn’t matter unless it’s suspicious. If someone is wearing heavy winter clothing in the middle of summer, that might raise questions. In general, customs officers don’t judge travelers based on their appearance, but anything unusual could warrant a closer look.

8) Have you ever had a passenger try to talk their way out of a very obvious customs violation?

It happens a lot more than you’d think. People often try to explain their way out of having an item seized. Some even admit they were caught red-handed and confess.

9) Is there a “red flag” behavior that instantly makes you pay closer attention to someone?

Again, anything from unusual nervousness to inconsistent answers can raise suspicion, along with anomalies found in luggage.

10) Do you ever hear wild excuses for carrying a prohibited item? What’s the best one?

When caught, people come up with all sorts of excuses—or try to misinterpret the law to justify it. I once saw a passenger have marijuana seized because they thought it was allowed since it was legal in the state they were traveling to. But while some states have legalised it, it’s still illegal at the federal level, so it gets confiscated at customs.

11) Can you tell when someone is lying, or do people get away with fibs more than we think?

We can usually tell based on behavior and demeanor. Liars might get nervous, sweat, or change their story. It’s all about perception.

12) What happens if someone “accidentally” forgets to declare something important?

It depends. If it’s something small and we believe it was an honest mistake, we might seize it without issuing a penalty or allow them to declare it formally. But if it’s something a reasonable person wouldn’t forget, we’re less likely to believe them.

13) Any secret tips for getting through customs quickly (without breaking any rules, of course!)?

Pack your suitcase carefully and know what’s inside. Read up on U.S. customs rules for prohibited items. A detailed list can be found here.

14) If a customs officer gives you “the look”, does that always mean trouble, or are they just tired?

We try not to let travelers know what we’re thinking. Most of the time, we’re just tired. But if we do suspect something, we keep a poker face and, when necessary, explain the situation to the traveler.

As our conversation wrapped up, one thing became clear: customs officers aren’t just gatekeepers – they’re detectives, diplomats, and sometimes, the first friendly (or not-so-friendly) face travelers meet in the U.S. So next time you’re nervously approaching the customs counter, remember: honesty is key, don’t joke about having contraband, and – if you’re carrying an absurd amount of cheese – be ready to explain yourself.

However, if your flight is cancelled, delayed for more than 3 hours, or significantly postponed, don’t stress – reach out to us at Skycop.com. We’re here to help you claim what you’re entitled to.