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Travel

Travelling

 

Duty Free

What you need to know

When you return to the UK you are allowed to bring in certain 'duty free' goods that you don't have to pay tax on.

The regulations on duty free allowances and age restrictions differ depending on whether you buy the goods from European and non-European countries.
As a result of this, it is a good idea to know what you can and can't bring back home before you travel; saving confusion and distress on the return journey.

What you can do

  • Before you travel speak to your travel agent about your allowances and any restrictions on goods.
  • Check with the HM Customs and Excise, via their website or helpline, to find out what you are allowed to bring back into the UK.
  • Never bring back goods for anyone else and always keep an eye on your own luggage.
  • Use the green channel at customs if you have nothing to declare, if you have goods you wish to declare or are in any doubt about use the red channel.
  • When departing or arriving from the UK, the HM Customs and Excise staff are there to help too so don't' be afraid to ask them if you are not sure about what you are carrying.
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