1. Before you buy. Know what's restricted or what must be declared - before you go.

2. Check handicrafts made from raw materials carefully, including woven plant products (mats, bags, placemats) - don't buy items showing signs of insect infestation or damage.

3. Wooden items – avoid souvenirs with holes (a sign of insect activity), and items with bark on them.

4. Animal skin products, including drums must be declared, and may require treatment.

5. Products made from seeds, including juggling and stress balls, necklaces and bracelets must be declared for quarantine inspection (and maybe treatment) when you get home.

6. Don’t bring food home, including pet food and plane food.

7. Beware of claims (on packaging or by vendors) that products meet Quarantine / Import requirements. They often don’t.

8. If you plan on sending your shopping home by freight or mail, declare the contents accurately – penalties will apply for false declaration. You may also be charged for a quarantine inspection.

9. Be aware that ALL international mail is screened, and that your items might need to be inspected and/or treated (at a cost).

10. If your items have to be treated to make them safe, you’ll be advised when they are available for collection (in most cases there’s a small fee for treatment).