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.
Many popular holiday destinations have strict rules regarding the removal of natural materials. In Croatia, the export of protected shellfish and sea snails is illegal and can be punished with heavy fines. Even unprocessed truffles may only be exported with the appropriate permit. On Italian beaches, it is forbidden to take sand and shells according to the local maritime law; in Sardinia, for example, fines of up to €3.000 can be imposed. In Greece, taking archaeological finds and stones collected from archaeological sites without permission is prohibited.
France and Spain also have laws protecting their coastlines and natural environments, prohibiting the removal of sand, shells, stones, (volcanic) rocks, and fossils. In France, in particular, fines for the unauthorized removal of protected plants can reach up to €150.000. On the Canary Island of Fuerteventura, targeted information campaigns and strict airport controls are in place to prevent the export of the island's unique "popcorn" seaweed fossils. As a general rule, in Austria, the purchase and illegal import of souvenirs containing endangered animal or plant species can be punished with fines of up to €80.000 or imprisonment for up to five years.
Furthermore, there are curious and often unexpected import restrictions that travelers should be aware of. For example, e-cigarettes are banned in Australia and Vietnam , while hemp products such as CBD drops are illegal in many South American and African countries. Singapore has a strict ban on chewing gum. Less well-known, but equally prohibited, is the import of certain sunscreens into Hawaii, some Caribbean islands, and Australia. Plastic bags are not allowed in Kenya, and even popular souvenirs like Kinder Surprise eggs are strictly forbidden in the USA . Travel expert Dagmar Redel therefore emphasizes the importance of thorough research beforehand to avoid unpleasant surprises upon returning home.