18 hours ago
Tourists face big fines or criminal record for having common item in holiday hotspots
More than 550,000 people in the UK use the item regularly
Holiday-makers jetting off abroad have been urged to get clued up on the local rules at their chosen getaway spot. If you carry what appears to be an innocent everyday item, you could land a fine or another criminal penalty.
Travellers who depend on nicotine pouches must exercise extreme caution when visiting France or certain other EU countries in the coming months, as the nation has banned the product completely, including for personal consumption. Nicotine pouch maker KLAR has sounded the alarm that with British users topping 590,000 and climbing, families must stay alert.
Both Germany and the Netherlands have also introduced total prohibitions on nicotine pouches. Local legislation can change quickly, making it crucial to check official government advice and relevant embassy websites before departure.
The firm warned that being caught with the pouches could result in "fines, confiscation, or even criminal penalties". For those intending to travel with nicotine pouches, KLAR's chief risk reduction officer Tomas Hammargren shared some guidance.
He recommended keeping pouches in their original packaging to help border officials quickly see what you have with you, which should hopefully speed up the inspection procedure. Another recommendation is to assess whether your particular product is appropriate for air travel.
One advantage of nicotine pouches like KLAR is their absence of liquids or batteries, meaning they are secure for both hand luggage and hold luggage, without risk of spillages or battery-related problems.
You should also check the airline's policies regarding when you can use the product. Nicotine pouches are frequently allowed while vaping typically isn't.
You can check with the cabin crew about this before departure. It's equally crucial to plan ahead concerning the amount you take with you.
Many countries will have restricted or no availability of nicotine alternatives to cigarettes, so it's wise to pack sufficient supplies with you. Travel experts at the Post Office have also recently recommended people check whether they need to renew their passport before travelling.
Richard Fleetwood, postmaster at Town Centre Washington Post Office, warned that in his experience many families are oblivious to the rules about passport validity and the particular requirements that apply in their destination country.
He said: "My top tip to all travellers is simple - plan ahead. Be sure to check your passport's expiry date and validity before booking your trip and make sure to always review the travel rules for your destination.
"Staying on top of your passport expiry date can save you a lot of stress and disappointment when the trip does arrive. We would recommend that people check their passport and visit their local Post Office early if they need a new passport."
Those heading to any Schengen zone countries, including EU destinations, must have a passport that was issued within the past 10 years, and it needs to have at least three months' validity from your departure date.
