**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials are issuing a formal travel advisory for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, citing expectations of record-high traffic volumes at ports of entry nationwide.

WHO: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which oversees security and travel processing at all land borders, airports, and maritime ports.

WHAT: An official “Travel Warning” alerting the public to significant delays and congestion. CBP projects a 15 to 20 percent increase in traveler volume compared to the same period in the previous year. The agency is urging all travelers to prepare for extended wait times.

WHEN: The advisory is effective for the duration of the federal holiday weekend, specifically beginning Friday, May 24, through Monday, May 27, with peak congestion anticipated on Monday evening as travelers return.

WHERE: The warning applies to all major U.S. ports of entry, with specific emphasis on the Southwest border land crossings in California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. Significant delays are also expected at major international airports and northern border crossings in the Great Lakes region.

WHY: The warning is a proactive measure to mitigate safety risks and operational strain. CBP states that the high volume of travelers, combined with ongoing processing requirements, will inevitably create bottlenecks. The primary goal is to manage expectations and encourage alternative travel strategies, such as using less congested ports and traveling during off-peak hours, to prevent dangerous roadway backups and ensure orderly processing.

KEY GUIDANCE: Travelers are advised to verify their travel documents are valid and current, utilize CBP’s “Border Wait Time” mobile application for real-time updates, and consider enrolling in Trusted Traveler programs like Global Entry and SENTRI to expedite processing. CBP emphasizes that all travelers remain subject to federal inspection requirements regardless of the holiday.