What starts as a harmless souvenir from a vacation can have serious legal consequences on the return journey. ÖAMTC strongly warns travelers not to take everything available in their holiday destination home with them. Conversely, there are also items that are legal in Austria but may be prohibited abroad and therefore should not be carried in luggage. Dagmar Redel, travel expert at the ÖAMTC, advises obtaining comprehensive information about applicable import and export regulations before traveling, as otherwise, you may face heavy fines. She also recommends carrying important medications in your hand luggage and carrying a doctor's certificate to avoid problems upon entry.
In many popular holiday destinations, strict rules apply regarding the carrying of natural materials. Croatia The export of protected shellfish species and sea snails is illegal and can be punished with heavy fines. Even unprocessed truffles may only be exported with the appropriate permit. According to Italian shipping law, taking sand and shells is prohibited on Italian beaches; Sardinia For example, fines of up to 3.000 euros can be imposed. Greece It is forbidden to take excavation finds and stones collected from archaeological sites without permission.
Also in France and Spain There are laws to protect the coast and nature that prohibit the taking of sand, shells, stones, (volcanic) rocks, and fossils. In France in particular, fines for the unauthorized taking of protected plants can amount to up to 150.000 euros. On the Canary Islands Fuerteventura There are targeted information campaigns and strict controls at the airport to prevent the export of the unique "popcorn" algae fossils found there. The general rule is: The purchase and illegal import of souvenirs containing endangered animal or plant species in Austria can be punished with fines of up to 80.000 euros or imprisonment of up to five years.
In addition, there are curious and often unexpected import restrictions that travelers should be aware of. For example, E-Cigarettes in Australia and Vietnam prohibited, while Hemp products CBD drops are illegal in many countries in South America and Africa. In Singapore There is a strict ban on chewing gum. Less well known, but equally prohibited, is the import of certain Sunscreens in Hawaii, some Caribbean islands and Australia. In Kenya, no plastic bags and even popular souvenirs such as Surcharge are in the USA strictly prohibited. Travel expert Dagmar Redel therefore emphasizes the importance of comprehensive advance information to avoid unpleasant surprises on the return journey.
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