For many Indian travellers, packing for a trip to the United States isn’t just about clothes and documents — it’s about carrying a piece of home.
A box of thepla for students flying abroad, a bottle of ghee for comfort, or a handful of curry leaves tucked into a suitcase — these familiar tokens of home are a common sight at Indian airports.
However, what many overlook is that the United States has strict regulations on what can be brought into the country. Even seemingly harmless items like homemade pickles or Ayurvedic medicines can land you in trouble at customs.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces rules from several agencies, including the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to safeguard public health and national interests.
Knowing what’s allowed, restricted, or banned can save you from fines, delays, or having your cherished items confiscated.
Why Indians Pack So Much for the US
For Indian families, travel bags are more than just luggage — they’re care packages filled with love.
Mothers fry snacks at dawn, grandmothers pack Ayurvedic powders, and fathers slip in extra tea bags. But these comforting essentials often don’t meet US import standards, especially regarding food and agricultural products.
Items Commonly Flagged at US Customs
Homemade pickles and chutneys:
Fermented or oil-based foods without commercial labels are often confiscated due to contamination risks.
Fresh fruits and vegetables:
Raw mangoes, bananas, jackfruit, and even dried curry leaves are typically banned to prevent pest and disease entry.
Dairy and meat products:
Ghee, paneer, and milk-based sweets are not permitted, even if vacuum-sealed.
Loose spices and powders:
Items like turmeric, hing, or homemade masalas must be in sealed, commercial packaging. Loose powders in zip-lock bags can be mistaken for contraband.
Customs experts warn that even innocent-looking snacks or dried herbs can cause problems if not properly packed or declared.
Packing Tips for Indian Travellers
For Students:
Opt for sealed, branded snacks such as khakhra, namkeen, or packaged sweets. Avoid homemade food, loose powders, or pickles.
For Families on Vacation:
Keep it simple — carry commercially packed items only. Avoid perishable or homemade foods, and ensure any medicines are in original packaging with prescriptions.
For Elderly Travellers:
Clearly label Ayurvedic medicines and carry a doctor’s note if required. Check USDA import rules before packing oils, ghee, or herbal items.
What You Must Declare at US Customs
Every traveller entering the US must fill out a customs declaration form (Form 6059B or its digital version). You are required to declare:
All food items, even packaged ones
All medicines, including Ayurvedic or herbal
Plant-based products like seeds, dried leaves, or flowers
Any item of agricultural or animal origin
Failing to declare these can result in hefty fines — sometimes worse than carrying a prohibited item itself.
Before You Fly
Before zipping up your suitcase, take a few minutes to check the latest CBP and USDA guidelines. A little awareness can help you carry your favourite Indian flavours — safely and legally — without stress at US customs.
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