A few weeks ago while coming home from Canada I got stopped. The customs people thought I was on drugs because I was shaking (I took a caffeine pill 30 mins before getting there because I kept falling asleep on the bus). Long story short, they thought I was either on drugs or nervous and thought I was hiding something (which I was neither). They frisked me, went through my belongings, and interrogated me for 45 minutes. They copied my information down. Why did they copy it down? Did they put me down as a suspect or no? I am just curious because I'm going to Canada again in a few weeks and I don't want any problems coming home once again.
2006-09-04 07:07:42 · 5 answers · asked by D-Beat Dee 2 in Travel ➔ Other - Destinations
yeah, they will probably check you again when you come back over the border again.........suggestion, don't take caffeine pills next time
2006-09-04 07:13:58 · answer #1 · answered by Scotty 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Well...from reading your other post I'm imagining you shaking with an infected pierced lip.
No one wants to admit it but when you look like a strung out druggie you will be treated as one.
My husband travels internationally on business and as a white Caucasian male dress in business casual has never had a problem. One day instead of his button down shirt with his jeans he decided to wear his tie died Grateful Dead T-Shirt. I think he was returning from Ireland via London...this was before 9/11.
They pulled him aside and searched his bag etc.
Here are a few suggestions.
1. Drive a normal looking car. Avoid tinted windows and edgy bumper stickers. When you approach the inspector always roll all the windows down. This helps them to see that you are not trying to hide anything. Also turn off the radio.
2. Dress in a conservative but comfortable manner.
3. Be polite and forthcoming, have your documents ready for inspection. Be alert.
Now...for my secret to getting through quickly...mind you I'm a conservative say at home mom...so this is NOT a big challenge...LOL. Be chatty...describe in detail the new shirt you found and are bringing back to your grandmother as a gift. (Or some such thing that you have acquired during your travels.) They wave you few so fast it will make your head spin! LOL Not that I ever have any contraband mind you.
I've always thought I'd be the perfect smuggler! Except for the fact that I am NOT a risk taker...so never would. A weird kind of Catch 22 I guess.
2006-09-04 07:28:38 · answer #2 · answered by Anne 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
the Customs folks have behavior patterns they look for; nervousness would certainly be one of the keys, whether it be actual or chemical induced.
Under the circumstances, I'm not surprised they looked at you pretty hard. Be glad it only took them 45 minutes.
Getting into Canada never seems to be a problem, in fact, the last several times I've crossed (flying), they haven't even bothered coming out to meet me. Getting back into the US is another thing altogether. There is no more "innocent until proven guilty" here. You are automatically assumed to be guilty of something, the officials just have to figure out what it is.
The only advice I can give for future travels is to not do anything, or take anything, that is going to make you unduly noteworthy. As to whether you are "the list", you very well could be. Not that it really matters; they'll simply be making note of the number of crossings, and the reasons you give. You may be given extra attention, but you may not even notice. It's amazing how much information about us our government feels they "need".
They always copy my information.
2006-09-04 07:24:26 · answer #3 · answered by lowflyer1 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is hard to say if customs did not convict you of anything then I would not worry too much about it however they may have put you in the system meaning if they stop you again it will just mean another hassle then it is all up to the customs guard to decide. if he will let you pass or not.
2006-09-04 07:29:43 · answer #4 · answered by Bullz_ eye 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You are now on a long list of suspicious people. Look forward to more searches, questions, and hassles. Especially if you cross the border with any sort of frequency.
My condolences.
2006-09-04 07:17:03 · answer #5 · answered by juicy_wishun 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋