14 Travel Mistakes That Could Get You Banned from Entire Countries

Traveling brings joy to most people especially since it is a great way to meet new people, make new connections, and experience new cultures. It is wise to note that you could quickly ruin a great trip by making some seemingly harmless mistakes.

Some of these rules are well known, and some are more subtle, but if you break them you would probably not be welcome back … ever. To help you avoid an international faux pas, here are some common travel mistakes that can lead to you being permanently shown the door.

Disrespecting Local Laws

The laws might be different from back home as they often differ from country to country. There are even different laws from state to state. Say you chewed some gum in Singapore or you’ve been wearing inappropriate clothing in a part of the world that’s otherwise very conservative, breaking the law can have the most dire of consequences. Before you go, research local regulations and save yourself a world of trouble.

Overstaying Your Visa

Overstaying your visa is one of the most common mistakes. It may sound like a simple miscalculation, but if you go over by even a few days on your visa time limit—and you can get fined, detained or barred from re-entering the country. Double check the visa expiration and always follow the departure date.

Using Illegal Substances

There may be some temptation to get into the nightlife or to take substances that are legal at home. Some countries, however, carry extremely harsh penalties for drug possession, regardless of the amount: the UAE and Indonesia, for instance. Prescription medication is not approved in some places and can land you in trouble. Don’t take the risk, research thoroughly and bring documentation for any medication you need.

Disrespect for Cultural or Religious Practices

In some countries, you may get penalized for things like public displays of affection, revealing skin in public and so on or if you just didn’t observe religious rules, you may face being deported or sent to prison by the authorities. A little bit of cultural sensitivity goes a long way when you’re traveling in regions where religion is a big part of everyday life.

Smuggling Forbidden Items

You can get yourself in hot water if you bring in prohibited goods. Many countries have strict regulation over what can make your travel packing list, even fruits, plants, or certain electronics. Tucking that exotic fruit into your suitcase might seem harmless, but you could end up with a fine, confiscation or worse: a permanent travel ban.

Political Protests: Getting Involved

It might seem like a good idea to join in with a local protest or demonstration, but this can be a terrible mistake. Most countries forbid foreign involvement in political movements. Being arrested at a protest can mean deportation, and in the most extreme cases, a permanent ban on being allowed back into that country.

Failing to Declare Money

Almost all countries have limits on how much cash in or out you can bring. An essential traveling tip is to declare all the money you are bringing into the country. If you don’t declare large sums of money at customs, you will get fined, your money will be confiscated, or you will be criminally charged.

Breaking Environmental Laws

Australia and New Zealand take their environmental protection laws very seriously. Quarantine laws can be violated if you bring in non-native plants or animals even when you don’t clean the dirt of your shoes upon entry. You could not only be fined but you could be put on a ‘do not enter’ list for future visits.

Disrespecting Authority Figures

Don’t be rude or confrontational with immigration officers, law enforcement or other officials, because you’re going to be in trouble. Minor backtalk might be considered a terrible crime abroad. To avoid a situation from escalating, always remain polite, calm and cooperative when talking to authorities of your situation.

Tampering with National Security

Photographing military installations, airports, or government buildings is prohibited in some countries. If you’re taking a selfie with a scenic backdrop you could be accused of spying or endangering national security. You always want to know the rules of where you can and can’t take photos.

Skipping Health Protocols

According to WHO, Health screening should be carried out on incoming travelers as the world still grapples with the effects of pandemics and other health crises. Not complying with these protocols in the form of refusing quarantine or lying on a health declaration form, will get you denied entry or banned from future visits.

Trying to Bribe Officials

Bribery is not only frowned upon in some countries, it’s illegal in many. Paying your way out of trouble with a police officer or border agent only works in the worst way possible. It could cause immediate arrest, fines, and a ban from the country.

Entering Restricted Areas

Some of the countries keep some areas off limits for tourist safety and security reasons. It could have serious consequences to wander into a military zone or a restricted government area even casually. If in doubt ask a local guide or official whether the area is safe to explore, never flout signs or warnings. Always pay attention to avoid this travel blunder.

Falsifying Travel Documents

If you falsify information on your visa applications or offer fraudulent travel documents, you are guaranteed to be banned. Once you’re flagged for submitting fake papers, immigration authorities take it seriously and you can expect to be barred from entering the country in the future.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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