Customs is the headache-inducing long lines that greet you after an even longer International flight. In some countries, it's a quick stamp of the passport and you're on your way but in others like the United States and the United Kingdom, there's no such luck.

Each airport has different standards and wait times for their customs processes but here are a few things to remember when you're in line to make your experience a little less painful.

Always have your passport ready. They will ask to see it at least twice so you're better off either holding it or having it readily avilable in a front pocket. Try not to stow it away the second you get it back, you'll need it again shortly.

If traveling alone, tell a gate agent. There is usually people who will direct you to the next available agent. When you travel alone, your wait time is sometimes dramatically decreased. Let them know and they can send you to someone who can process you in just a few moments rather than waiting behind the family of 8.

Stay alert and don't waste time. Everyone is just like you in customs. You're all trying to get done as quick as possible so you can get out of there. So try not to take your time, you're wasting everyone else's time as well as your own.