• Having a passport is necessary for international travel to and from the U.S.passport image by isatori from Fotolia.com
  
  Traveling out of the country isn't a trip you take lightly, especially if you've never done it before. Besides obtaining a passport, you'll likely want to familiarize yourself with customs regulations and prohibited goods before you attempt to bring any restricted items over the border. If you're traveling through multiple countries, it may be necessary to consult each country's regulations to ensure you aren't met with fines or have any of your possessions confiscated.
  
  

WHTI

• The Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative requires U.S. and Canadian travelers to show a passport when entering the U.S. as a result of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. It was previously possible to provide a birth certificate and driver's license as an alternative to a passport in some cases. As of June 2009, international travel by land and sea also require a passport for entry into the U.S. The goal of the WHTI is to strengthen U.S. border security and to expedite the entry process.
  
  

Agriculture

• Because of animal and plant pest diseases, agricultural items cannot be brought into the U.S. Restricted items, according to the Department of Homeland Security, include meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, soil and products made from animal or plant material. Pests and diseases from foreign agriculture are a threat to U.S. food crops and livestock. If diseases were to spread to U.S. agriculture, it would mean losses in production and increased costs for goods. Aside from diseases, plants could spread and take over the natural ecosystem for domestic plants. The Department of Agriculture partners with the Department of Homeland Security to determine which products can come in to the country and which products should be kept out.
  
  

Restricted/Prohibited Goods

• Drugs and medication in nearly all instances are prohibited from being brought into the United States by individual citizens. Cuban cigars are listed on the Department of Homeland Security website as a prohibited item, and they have been for many years. Birds are prohibited as they may carry specific diseases that are threatening not only to other animal life, but to humans as well. Bird smuggling carries additional penalties, which may include additional fines or jail time.