Travelling to Singapore? 7 things you should never pack

Lighters and matches

That small lighter you always keep in your bag could get you into trouble. Singapore follows strict aviation regulations on lighters and matches. Cigar lighters, blue-flame lighters, battery-powered lighters, novelty lighters, and strike-anywhere matches are generally prohibited. Subject to local regulations, travellers may carry one small cigarette lighter (without unabsorbed liquid fuel, other than liquefied gas) or one box of safety matches, but only on their person. These items are not permitted in checked or carry-on baggage.

Live birds or fish

If you have a pet goldfish or a friendly parakeet you intend on travelling with to Singapore, you will need several licences and approvals beforehand. We suggest you go through the detailed guidelines.

Medicines

Some of your personal medication may contain prohibited ingredients, so before packing, do a quick check if yours checks all the right boxes. If you intend to bring in more than 3 months’ worth of personal medication, you will need prior approval.

More than 5kg of seafood or processed food

If you’re planning to fill your suitcase with frozen seafood or processed meals, think again. You are allowed to carry up to 5 kgs of seafood products, out of which a maximum of 2 kg of frozen cooked crabmeat and frozen cooked prawn meat is allowed. You are allowed a maximum of 30 eggs, no more than that, and only a handful of fruit and vegetables. Processed food cannot exceed 5 kgs or 5 litres. These regulations are designed keeping food safety guidelines in mind.