Gifts You Can’t Bring Back Home

One of the most enjoyable perks of traveling is being able to pick out unique gifts for friends and family while overseas. Sometimes, those trinkets you think Aunt Martha might love on her living room mantle might end up getting you in a lot of trouble if you bring it across the border.

Ivory

Ivory is a big no-no for Americans. The illegal ivory trade is an enormous problem worldwide and is a danger to the existence of elephants and rhinos. Jewelry, furniture or toys made with ivory are illegal in the United States and can lead to fines and imprisonment if you attempt to bring any home.

Foods

Bringing food home from a foreign country is a tricky task, because there are so many things banned in America that might not seem like they could cause harm. A lot of meats and fruits can carry disease or bugs with them, so it’s important to check U.S. laws on what is and is not acceptable.

Kinder Eggs

Though seemingly an odd item to include, this is actually one of the things Americans attempt to sneak in quite often. Kinder eggs, while popular throughout the world with kids, are banned in the United States due to choking hazards. Sneaking one into the country can lead to a fine of up to $5,000.

Medication

It goes without saying illegal drugs aren’t getting past Customs, but neither will many legal drugs sold in other countries. That’s because unless they’ve passed the FDA’s strict tests they’re not legal here. If you can’t find it here in the United States, it’s likely it won’t make it out of the airport.