Great article!
In addition to whats already been said one more point to add regarding the Dutiable items. I specifically had issues when returning to India with my old camera and some other stuff.
They were adamant that I had to pay duty for my camera which I had taken from India. So as a proof you'd need to provide the original bills from India.
If you do not have that, its best to take an "Export Certificate" from India before leaving the country. The process is pretty straight forward and simple. And of course its free. This certificate is the proof that you have taken ABCZ items from India having XYZ value with serial number or equivalent for matching.
This can be obtained at the customs desk which would be right after the Emigration counters. Get all the expensive stuff that you think may be taxed listed in there. That also means that you will have to carry it in along as cabin baggage.
Few customs officers may insist that its not required and you can do without it. A smile on the face and persistence will get you through (they are supposed to give it anyway, thats their job).
For the first time traveler's reference the process in short for going abroad is:
Baggage scan -> Check in -> Emigration process -> Customs declaration (if needed) -> Boarding into plane
On arrival at destination
Disembark from plane -> Emigration process -> Baggage collection -> Customs declaration (if needed) |