British tourists warned of little-known EU rule or face £20k fine

British tourists have been warned they could face huge fines if custom rules on two popular items are not respected following a tightening of Europe's rules.

15:16, Wed, Jun 5, 2024 | UPDATED: 15:35, Wed, Jun 5, 2024

Senior man smoking a cigarette at a terrace while having a drink. Middle aged man smoking tobacco and drinking wine in a terrace with a woman.

British tourists have been warned they could face fines following the tightening of Europe rules (Image: Getty)

British tourists have been warned that they could face fines of over £20,000 if custom rules on two popular items are not respected following a tightening of the rules in Europe.

"Fines can reach over £20,000 if you are not mindful of customs rules," shares Keira Rigby, Travel Expert at My Hotel Break. The warning comes as a wake-up call for many Brits travelling back from Europe.

The rules regarding cigarettes and alcohol when returning from Europe, or travelling between EU countries, have been tightened. It is therefore crucial to stay informed to avoid hefty fines.

Bottle of whiskey in hand

The rules on alcohol have been tightened so you can only bring four litres of still wine (Image: Getty)

Regarding cigarettes, you are only allowed to bring back 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco.

You can only bring back four litres of still wine, 16 litres of beer, one litre of spirits over 22 percent alcohol or two litres of fortified wine, sparkling wine or other alcoholic beverages less than 22 percent.

This is not just a slap-on-the-wrist type fine, either. Repeat offenders are being warned to "brace yourself" for fines "exceeding £20,000."

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Smoke mist in dark room.

You are only allowed to bring back 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco (Image: Getty)

Travellers are asked to be clear about what you can - and cannot - bring and if you have extra items, declare them, which may save you a fine or at least lessen the penalty.

Returning tourists have also been urged to pack smartly and prioritise what you really want to bring back, as well as keeping all receipts to help prove the quantity you have purchased.

“The fines are real, and they hurt, understanding and respecting customs laws helps ensure your holidays remain memorable for the right reasons. Next time you pack that extra bottle or carton, remember it’s not just about what you want to bring home, but what’s allowed,” said Kiera Rigby.