🛑 Items You May NOT Be Allowed to Bring Home From Shopping in Aswan, Egypt
- J.E.S Travel Designs
- Jan 23
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 14
Here’s a detailed guide on travel restrictions and shipping advice for shopping in Aswan, ensuring you avoid customs issues and successfully transport larger purchases like rugs or pottery.
Many countries have strict import restrictions on specific items. Before making a big purchase, check your home country’s customs regulations. Here are common restricted or prohibited items:
❌ Items That Might Be Restricted or Banned
Item | Reason for Restriction | Advice |
Antiques & Artifacts | Egypt strictly prohibits the export of genuine antiquities (Pharaonic, Islamic, Coptic, or Nubian). | Avoid anything labeled as an "antique" unless you get official documentation proving it's a reproduction. |
Animal Products (Ivory, Coral, Tortoiseshell, Feathers, Skins, etc.) | CITES laws ban the international trade of endangered species. Many souvenirs made from ivory or coral are illegal to import. | Avoid these products entirely. |
Papyrus Art & Jewelry with Precious Stones | Some countries limit the import of precious materials, including gold and gemstones, to prevent smuggling. | Keep receipts and ask for certification of authenticity to show at customs. |
Spices & Food Items | Certain plant-based products may be restricted in some countries due to agricultural laws. | Avoid seeds, raw nuts, and unprocessed plants. Pack spices in sealed, labeled packaging. |
Handmade Perfumed Oils & Incense | Many countries restrict liquids over 100ml in carry-on luggage. | Pack perfume oils in checked luggage, well-wrapped to prevent leaks. |
Large Wooden Items (Furniture, Carvings, etc.) | Some countries require fumigation certificates for imported wood due to pest control regulations. | Ask the vendor for official documentation if needed. |
👉 TIP: Check your customs website before purchasing anything questionable!
📦 How to Ship Large Items (Rugs, Pottery, Furniture)
If you’re buying a large item like a handwoven rug, pottery, or a big piece of art, carrying it home in your luggage is often impractical. Here’s what you should do:
1️⃣ Ask If the Shop Offers International Shipping
Many reputable vendors in Aswan’s souks and artisan shops offer worldwide shipping services.
Ensure they use DHL, FedEx, UPS, or Egypt Post for international tracking.
Get written confirmation of the estimated shipping time and a tracking number.
2️⃣ Consider Using a Local Shipping Company
If the vendor doesn’t ship, you can arrange shipping yourself. Some reliable shipping services in Egypt include:
DHL Egypt 📦 (for secure, express shipping)
FedEx Egypt ✈️ (for valuable items like jewelry or artwork)
Egypt Post EMS 🏛️ (cheaper but slower)
Location Tip: In Aswan, some major hotels can also assist with international shipping services.
3️⃣ Get the Right Documentation
If you’re shipping valuable items (like jewelry, rugs, or artworks), you may need:
✅ A receipt or proof of purchase
✅ A certificate of authenticity (for art, carpets, or jewelry)
✅ A customs declaration (filled out by the shipping company)
4️⃣ Estimate Shipping Costs & Insurance
Large items can be expensive to ship (especially furniture and rugs). Expect to pay:
$100–$500 USD for a medium-sized rug
$200+ USD for pottery or fragile items
Get insurance for valuable purchases!
🛄 Packing & Luggage Tips for Bringing Souvenirs Home
If you prefer to carry your purchases home instead of shipping, follow these packing tips:
🎒 Carry-On Luggage
✅ Best for: Small souvenirs (jewelry, papyrus, spices, textiles)🚫 Liquids over 100ml must go in checked luggage
🧳 Checked Luggage
✅ Best for: Fragile items (perfumed oils, pottery, glass lanterns)🎁 Wrap items well in bubble wrap, clothes, or towels to prevent breakage.
🏺 Special Tip for Breakable Items (Pottery, Glass, Lanterns)
Wrap items in clothing or bubble wrap
Use a hard-shell suitcase
Label as "FRAGILE" at check-in
🚨 Customs Tips for Returning Home
Declare all purchases if required by your home country’s customs laws.
Keep receipts for expensive items in case customs asks for proof of purchase.
Know your duty-free limit (e.g., in the USA, goods over $800 USD may require import tax).
🔑 Final Travel Advice
Do your research before buying expensive souvenirs to avoid scams.
Check your home country’s regulations on importing spices, wood, antiques, and animal products.
Ask vendors for shipping options and choose reliable carriers like DHL or FedEx.
Pack smartly for fragile items, and declare all purchases at customs to avoid fines.
By following these tips, you’ll shop with confidence in Aswan and safely bring home authentic treasures! 😊✨
