Holidaymakers Warned Over Exotic Goods

Holiday shoppers have been shown rare and exotic goods in a bid to highlight the limits of what they are allowed to take back home.

Visitors to a Holiday World exhibition were shown items such as a turtle shell, snake skins and ivory jewellery – all of which have been previously seized by customs. A bear's head also formed part of the display at the event.

The items were exhibited by HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), in order to let people know what they are not allowed to bring into the UK.
The head of detection at HMRC commented: "We want to ensure that holidaymakers do not waste their money on souvenirs that may be taken off them when they get back home, so think before you buy."

She added that the rules apply to any holiday, from a short shopping trip to France to a luxury cruise in more exotic locations.

With an increasing number of people going abroad for the purposes of shopping and picking up bargains, HMRC has chosen to alert people before they leave.

She said: "We want holidaymakers to have a safe and pleasant trip and hope that by highlighting these restrictions now, people will not face a disappointing end to a great holiday."

Other restricted items on show to holidaymakers included contraband goods such as coral, ivory and animal skins, various counterfeit goods and examples of drug concealments.

In addition to highlighting illegal items, HMRC has also reminded people of regulations regarding the transport of legal items.

Although holidaymakers are allowed to bring alcohol and tobacco into the country for their own use, HMRC warned that customs officers are empowered to confiscate items if they believe they are to be sold on for commercial reasons. This would leave the traveller open to criminal proceedings and possible imprisonment.

If people want to hold onto their holiday purchases then there is one simple rule they must follow - know the limits before you travel and spend your money.

People going on a shopping holiday should make sure their new purchases are fully covered in case of incident – search the internet for the best travel insurance quotes.

If you would like to know more about travel why not ask AnswerBank Travel.