There are certain things we know not to pack into hand luggage when travelling, from liquids over 100ml to anything potentially flammable or dangerous.
However, different parts of the world have different rules for what they allow in, with what’s considered contraband varying wildly depending on where you’re going.
Carrying forbidden items can lead to delays, fines, or even legal action. Penalties vary by country, but it’s best not to show up to the airport with something you shouldn’t have, as it could spoilt your trip or land you in a whole lot of trouble.
Adam Ewart from luggage shipping experts Send My Bag explains: ‘Many countries enforce strict regulations on certain items to protect their industries, the environment, or security.’
It’s not just a case of common sense, with many of these rules coming as a surprise to even the most seasoned traveller.
Read on to find out what’s banned where. And if you’re planning a jaunt to any of these places soon, take note…
Alcohol (Maldives)
The Maldives High Commission has confirmed that travelling with alcohol is prohibited, and any attempt to bring it into the strictly Muslim country will result in confiscation at customs.
While alcohol is available to international tourists at most resorts, it is not permitted on local islands. And you should note it’s just one of a number of banned items on the island – with firearms, idols of worship and pork products also a no-no, although once again the latter are available on the resort islands under special licence.
E-cigarettes (Thailand)
If you’re planning a trip to Thailand you should be aware that e-cigarettes, as well as associated equipment such as refill liquids, are banned in Thailand.
The Thai Embassy website explains that the ban was introduced by the Government in 2014 for health reasons, and amid concerns that e-cigarettes were luring young people into smoking. Anyone found breaking this law in the country can face a fine or even imprisonment.
Tourists shouldn’t assume they’re immune from this though, as bringing e-cigarettes or related products into the country can also result in penalties, from item confiscation and fines to – at worst – time behind bars. So be sure to leave your vaping devices at home.
Drones (Morocco)
This one might not affect as many people as vaping or booze bans, but if you have any trips to Morocco planned, you should note that taking a drone into the country is forbidden unless you have special permission to do so.
The ban came into force in 2015 amid security and privacy concerns, meaning that travellers found with drones may have them confiscated upon arrival, and in some cases, fines or legal action may be imposed.
If you do need to use one for professional purposes you must seek permission from the government before you fly – and bear in mind that even with permission its use will be restricted near such sensitive sites as military zones and airports.
Walkie-talkies (India)
While walkie-talkies aren’t actually illegal in India, they are subject to some pretty tough restrictions. If you want to use one, you’ll need a licence under the Wireless Telegraphy Act, and if you try to use one or bring it into the country without permission you could face fines, have the device confiscated or even be jailed.
While some licence-free models run on public frequencies, they have very limited range and power. Make sure to check the rules before using any walkie-talkie to avoid legal trouble and ensure clear communication. And if your little one wants to bring one on your holiday to India, consider asking them to choose a different toy to save on hassle.
Poppy seeds (Saudi Arabia)
Heading off to Saudi Arabia? Make sure you finish off that poppy seed bagel at the airport – as possession of poppy seeds in Saudi Arabia, even in small amounts, can lead to legal trouble, including arrest, detention, and hefty fines.
The authorities there take a strict stance on items perceived as contraband, and poppy seeds are a no-no due to to their potential connection to narcotics.
Travellers should be aware that carrying poppy seeds, whether for culinary use or otherwise, could be considered a violation of the country’s stringent drug laws – which in a worst case scenario would land you with deportation, or a spell behind bars.
Whistles (Guatemala)
The Central American nation of Guatemala prohibits certain obvious items from being brought into the country, such as weapons, but you might be surprised to learn that whistles – specifically those which look like what the police might use – should also be left off your packing list.
The reason? Well, apart from the noise factor and use as a potential weapon to shatter eardrums, it’s also been reported that too many locals were using them to impersonate police officers – so a ban was promptly slapped on using them at all.
Plastic bags (Rwanda)
Finally, if you’re on your way to Rwanda with a plastic bag in your luggage – or you’ve gained one at the airport – be aware that taking them into the country is very much forbidden.
The country has had a ban on non-biodegradable plastic bags since 2008 to fight pollution, with Visit Rwanda explaining that luggage is checked on arrival, and any carriers are confiscated.
Although it’s perhaps a slight inconvenience, the ban has had a very positive effect, as it helps to keep the country clean – with very little plastic waste.
So to avoid problems and do your bit, it’s worth making the switch to reusable or biodegradable bags.
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