International travelers connecting through U.S. airports often face logistical challenges—flight delays, customs procedures, and baggage issues can create unnecessary stress. With proper preparation, however, these hurdles become manageable. Drawing from years of experience, here are key strategies to streamline your layover experience.

Managing Flight Disruptions

Recent operational data confirms that flight delays remain prevalent across U.S. hubs. When encountering delays:

• Immediately contact your airline to understand rebooking options and eligibility for compensation (meals, accommodations, or alternate flights)
• Review your airline's contract of carriage regarding missed connections due to delays—knowledge of these policies strengthens your position when requesting assistance
• Consider travel insurance with trip delay coverage for flights through delay-prone airports

Mastering Customs Declarations

All arriving passengers must complete CBP Form 6059B. To ensure efficient processing:

• Obtain the form during your flight or at immigration kiosks—many airlines now provide electronic submission options through mobile apps
• Declare all restricted items including agricultural products, monetary instruments exceeding $10,000, and commercial merchandise
• Use the official CBP guidelines for item categorization to avoid accidental misdeclaration penalties

Strategic Layover Planning

Successful connections require meticulous preparation:

• Allow minimum 3-hour connection windows at major airports like JFK or LAX to accommodate immigration queues
• Study terminal maps and inter-terminal transportation (ATL's Plane Train, ORD's ATS, or DEN's underground walkways) using airport apps
• Pack essential medications and one change of clothes in carry-on luggage as protection against baggage delays