Just a couple of quick questions. When I arrive in London and go into customs, what other documents should I have besides my passport? Or is the passport the only thing I need? What's this about bank statements? My trip is only for a week

Thanks

It's the IMMIGRATION OFFICER (not customs) who will look at your passport. Assuming you hold a US Passport, that's all you need to bring. If you hold a passport from a different country, you need to check if you require a visa to enter the UK (no visa needed for US citizens).

Once in a while, I get asked by the officer what's the purpose of my visit, or where I am staying. It's always good if you know the name of the hotel that you'll be staying at in case they ask; as well as have the hotel confirmation handy. If you're staying with relatives or friends, make sure you have their address on hand in case you get asked. (You need to fill out this information - where you're staying - on the Landing Card anyway.)

I suppose, if you look really suspicious, the officer may ask you to show them your return air e-ticket.

Thanks for the help

They always ask the purpose/duration of my visit. Maybe I'm shifty looking. Never a bank statement, tho.

You're right, LAwoman, they do always ask the purpose and duration of my visit.

Last year, the officer could NOT believe me that I was going to London by myself, ie, NOT on a tour and NOT visiting relatives. I mean, she was truly surprised that a 30-something woman would actually travel to London for vacation by herself.