15 Unexpected Items Tourists Are Not Allowed to Take from Their Travels
Everyone loves a good souvenir as they offer a way to remember your trip. However, there are a few items that are illegal to take from a destination, or illegal to import, and many of these you won’t even know about. Here’s 15 unexpected items that tourists aren’t allowed to take while on their travels, as doing so can leave you with a hefty fine or even prison time!
Coral and Shells
In several countries across the world, including the Maldives, it’s illegal to take corals, seashells, and tortoise shells from local beaches. Although this may seem harmless to many, the ecosystem in the Maldives is very fragile. That means great steps are taken to protect it. If you’re found with these in your possession, you can receive a hefty fine!
Seashell Jewellery
Likewise, seashell jewelry and souvenirs are also illegal in many destinations. This is due to the effect this industry has on marine ecosystems. You’ll also need to consider customs in your home country. Although it may be legal to purchase such an item in other destinations, countries such as Australia have very strict customs laws.
Gold
Gold-panning is a popular activity and in many countries, you’ll have no issues keeping whatever you find. However, in the United Kingdom, UK law states that in most cases any gold found actually belongs to the Crown Estate. In this case, you’ll need permission to remove any gold that you discover.
Coca Tea
Coca tea is a popular drink in South America which is believed to help with altitude sickness. It’s made with coca leaves, which are known to contain cocaine so there are strict laws in place around this drink. Although it’s often perfectly legal to buy in South American countries such as Peru, it’s illegal in many Western countries and can cause big issues at customs.
Natural Resources
Although it may seem harmless enough to pick up a pretty rock, flower, or piece of wood, removing any natural resources from a national park is often illegal, which is certainly the case in the United States. For example, you can collect petrified wood in some locations throughout the U.S., but not within Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona as it’s a protected area.
Knock-off Goods
Countries such as Turkey sell a range of knock-off goods, ranging from bags and shoes to clothing. These are often replicas of popular designer brands such as Gucci or Armani and are legal to buy. However, many countries will detain items like this at the border if they deem them to be using counterfeit marks or inappropriately using a trademark.
Sand
In many countries such as Italy and the United Kingdom, it’s illegal to take sand and pebbles from local beaches. This is to avoid beach degradation and to protect the local environment. Now, this isn’t common knowledge for many people, and tourists have faced prison time in the past for this, as well as hefty fines. You’ll be surprised by how many countries have this law in place!
Fossils
Although finding a fossil is extremely exciting, whether you can keep it will depend on the location! The popular coastal area of Dorset in the United Kingdom boasts several fantastic beaches, many of which are excellent fossil-hunting destinations. However, some areas have certain restrictions. This tends to be the case if it’s a protected area, so take note of the local signs.
Locally-produced Foods
When traveling to a new country, there’s no doubt you’ll find a variety of new and exciting foods. Many of these, you’ll want to bring back home with you, but it’s important to check custom rules and regulations. When it comes to local produce, especially fruits and vegetables, it’s often illegal to take them to another country, with Australia and New Zealand having especially strict laws.
Traditional Medicines
The majority of us have gotten sick on holiday, and many will head to a doctor. If you decide to opt for a more traditional approach, you need to be very cautious about what you’re taking and whether it’s legal. In countries like China, there’s also a risk of these traditional medicines containing illegal animal products, such as tiger bone, snake bile, or rhino horn.
Historical or Archaeological Pieces
You’ll find that it’s illegal to take historical or archaeological pieces as a souvenir. In countries such as Costa Rica, purchasing or extracting these objects is punishable by up to 10 years of jail time. Tourists have also been fined and given a suspended sentence for stealing artifacts from Pompeii in Italy. It’s really just not worth the risk!
Fur Coats
Fur coats are a huge ethical matter, with many destinations banning the use of fur in this way. However, you’ll find that it’s still perfectly legal to buy fur products in various countries, especially in Europe. Some countries such as Iran have banned fur sales, as well as certain cities and states in the U.S., so it’s important to do your research.
Seeds and Plant Cuttings
In some countries, it’s perfectly legal to take seeds or plant cuttings, but not if it’s within a protected area. As with local produce, including fresh fruit and vegetables, it’s illegal to bring seeds and plant cuttings into many countries. Some countries have more relaxed rules, but you’ll still need to declare it at customs. When traveling abroad, you must research this in advance.
Antiquities
In India, you need to be aware of The Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, of 1972. Under this act, exporting antiques privately is prohibited, and only the government and other authorized agencies can do so. This is to protect the country’s treasures and culture.
Lava Rocks
In countries with high volcanic activity, you may come across lava rocks. As the name suggests, these rocks are created from cooled lava. In Iceland, it’s illegal to remove any lava rocks from their natural habitat. Luckily, you can purchase these rocks legally while in the country.
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Emese Maczko is a travel blogger behind Eco Lodges Anywhere. Having explored several destinations around Europe, the US, Indonesia, and Australia, and resided in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Luxembourg, Emese possesses a keen understanding of diverse cultures and an appreciation for the beauty of each destination she visits. She advocates for sustainable travel and ecotourism.