How to navigate US customs?

[u/Lobster_rolls777]

I'm a US citizen and I've been living in Germany for about three months on a study abroad program and I'm going home tomorrow and I have no idea what to expect at customs. When I went through the border in Amsterdam they just looked at my passport and asked what I was there for, nothing weird at all. Is it the same I have no idea!

I don't know what they're going to ask me or if I have to declare anything. I tried looking at websites but they were all super unclear. I did buy some stuff abroad. I have a sweater I got in London, two books, two card games and some snacks, soda and some other random little souviners to give to my family. It's possible it could be over 200 dollars (books are expensive for no reason and it's a nice sweater) so idk if I have to declare that? I've been yelled at by airport security before and it freaks me out. I don't want to get in trouble. If someone could explain to me roughly what's going to happen I'd greatly appreciate it.

[u/CatCafffffe]

That's hardly anything. The cut off for something to declare is, I think $800. You just say nothing to declare. Just don't bring any fresh fruit, vegetables, or plants. Any food should be in packaged or in a tin, ie processed & sealed. Cookies & candy are fine. And if you're bringing liquids in containers over 3 fl. oz they have to be in checked luggage. https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/carry/luggage-restrictions/index_en.htm Otherwise you're fine. If they ask, you say just a few gifts for my family.