11 Things You’re Not Allowed to Bring Into Other Countries
Planning a trip abroad? Before you start stuffing your suitcase with your favorite snacks, gadgets, or that extra pair of flip-flops, take a beat. Many countries have very specific (and sometimes surprising) rules about what’s allowed through their borders.
These bans are the bureaucratic red tape often tied to public health, environmental protection, religious values, or even national security. So before you get all excited about your trip, here are the things that might not make it past customs—even if they seem perfectly normal at home.
Singapore Doesn’t Allow Chewing Gum
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Yes, Singapore practically outlaws chewing gum and isn’t a big fan of it either. Unless it’s medically necessary (like nicotine gum for quitting smoking) and prescribed by a doctor, chewing gum is banned from import or sale. The ban was introduced in 1992 to reduce sticky vandalism and maintenance issues. Littered gum was costing millions to clean up, so Singapore just decided to nix it altogether.
Thailand Prohibits E-cigarettes
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If you’re thinking of vaping on your beach holiday in Thailand, think again. Thailand has banned the import, sale, and use of e-cigarettes since 2014. Violators—including tourists—have had devices confiscated, and some have even faced jail time or fines. Officials say the ban protects public health, especially among youth, and prevents unregulated products from flooding the market.
The U.S. Bans Kinder Eggs
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That colorful chocolate egg with a toy inside might be a childhood favorite elsewhere, but in the U.S., it’s a no-go. Surprisingly, Kinder Eggs are banned in the United States due to choking hazards posed by the toy inside. Customs seizes thousands of Kinder Eggs every year.
The Maldives Restricts Bibles and Non-Islamic Texts
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Bringing a Bible or non-Islamic religious literature to the Maldives isn’t outright illegal, but there’s a catch. Public distribution is banned. Personal copies are usually permitted but must remain private. The country enforces these rules to preserve its religious identity and legal framework.
Kenya Won’t Allow Plastic Bags
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If you’ve been planning to grab a few extra duty-free bags for your trip to Kenya, ditch the idea. Kenya banned single-use plastic bags in 2017, and they’re serious about it. Bringing in plastic bags, even the ones used for wrapping souvenirs, can result in hefty fines or even jail. Pack reusable totes or biodegradable options. Customs officials routinely check for plastic packaging.
Cuba Limits Electric Irons by Wattage
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Cuba keeps a close eye on imported electronics, and yes—that includes your travel iron. If it uses too much wattage, it might be confiscated. Non-sprinkling irons using over 290 watts/hour or steam/sprinkling models using over 703 watts/hour may be held at customs. The tip is to double-check your device label. Or better yet, see if your hotel offers laundry services instead.
Barbados Bans Camouflage Clothing
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Leave anything camo-patterned behind when visiting Barbados—even kids’ clothes or accessories. Customs won’t make exceptions. It might be stylish back home, but in Barbados, it’s banned. Civilians—locals or tourists—can’t wear or carry any military-style camo. The restriction comes as a security measure meant to prevent confusion between civilians and military personnel.
Switzerland Won’t Allow Counterfeit Watches
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If there’s one country that takes its watches seriously, it’s Switzerland. Bringing in a fake Rolex—intentionally or not—can lead to fines and seizure. Watchmaking is a key national industry, so the country strictly protects intellectual property and luxury branding. Even gifts or souvenirs bought abroad should be legit. Customs agents are trained to spot fakes.
Tunisia Forbids Bulk Imports of Pencils and Chalk
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It sounds odd, but showing up in Tunisia with a suitcase full of school supplies can be a red flag. These common school supplies are subject to strict import rules, often intended to protect domestic manufacturing. Even charitable donations of educational goods must go through official approval channels.
Capri, Italy, Bans Flip-Flops
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Capri might be Italy’s dream island getaway, but it has little patience for noisy footwear. Certain pedestrian zones ban flip-flops, clogs, or shoes with hard soles during tourist season. The idea is to maintain peace and quiet in narrow, echo-prone streets, not fashion policing.
Saudi Arabia Has Zero Tolerance for Poppy Seeds
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Bringing poppy seeds into Saudi Arabia is illegal. Even small culinary amounts can trigger strict drug laws, as seeds may contain trace amounts of morphine. Customs enforce these bans firmly, and travelers have faced fines and detentions. This applies across several Gulf nations with zero-tolerance policies on even incidental poppy content.
China Wouldn’t Allow Dalai Lama Books and Images
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Got a photo of the Dalai Lama tucked in your travel journal? Better think twice before flying into China. The Chinese government considers any pro-Tibet or Dalai Lama-related material as politically sensitive. Especially in regions like Tibet or Xinjiang, this can lead to questioning or confiscation. Even digital content on your devices could raise concerns during inspections.
Japan Doesn’t Let in Rice and Other Grains
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Japan’s agricultural quarantine laws are among the strictest in the world. You might think bringing your favorite jasmine rice to Japan is a thoughtful gesture, but the officials will disagree. Unregulated seeds, rice, and grains could introduce pests or diseases that threaten local crops. In fact, to import rice legally, you need a phytosanitary certificate and advance approval from Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture.
No Carrying or Flying Drones in Morocco (Without Permit)
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Flying a drone in Morocco requires prior authorization. If you must bring a drone, apply for a permit through Morocco’s Civil Aviation Authority well in advance. For most travelers, it’s just easier to leave it behind. Without a permit, drones are confiscated at customs, particularly near tourist hotspots and airports.
United Arab Emirates Says No to Pork Products
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Bringing home-cooked ham sandwiches or pork jerky on your UAE trip is definitely not a great idea. As an Islamic country, the UAE enforces strict bans on pork in public zones. While some