Stay calm, cooperate and have your documents ready. Answer what you're asked and politely ask again if something is unclear. Arguing only makes the check take longer.
- Always carry your original passport (and residence card if you have one), even on a weekend trip within the Schengen area.
- Keep a record of your travel history: departure and return dates, destination countries and any transit countries.
- Keep photos from the road with location and time data. They can help show which route you used to cross a border.
- Some restricted areas have no signs, and maps or online reviews won't mention them. This risk can't be fully avoided.
- Travelling with young children, always keep food and water in the car, as a check can take an hour.