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 packet of curry leaves tucked into a suitcase are common sights at airports.
But what many forget is that the US has very strict rules on what can enter the country - and even harmless items like homemade pickles or Ayurvedic medicines can get you into trouble at customs.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) enforces laws from multiple agencies, including the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to protect public health and national interests.
Knowing what’s allowed, restricted, or banned can save you from delays, fines, or having your items confiscated.
Why Indians Pack So Much for the US
Indian families see travel bags as more than luggage - they’re care packages. Mothers fry snacks at dawn, grandmothers pack Ayurvedic powders, and fathers slip in extra tea bags. But these familiar comforts often don’t meet US import rules, which are extremely strict when it comes to food and agricultural products.
Items That Commonly Get Flagged at US Customs
Homemade pickles and chutneys:
Fermented or oil-based items without commercial labels raise red flags due to contamination risks.
Fresh fruits and vegetables:
Raw mangoes, bananas, jackfruit, and even dried curry leaves are often confiscated to prevent pests and diseases.
Dairy and meat products:
Ghee, paneer, and milk-based sweets are usually not allowed, even if vacuum-sealed.
Loose spices and powders:
Turmeric, hing, and homemade masalas must be in commercial packaging. Loose powders in zip-lock bags can be mistaken for contraband.
Customs experts say even innocent-looking homemade snacks or dried leaves can cause issues if not properly packed and declared.
Packing Tips for Indian Travellers
For students:
Stick to sealed branded snacks like khakhra, namkeen, or packaged sweets. Avoid loose powders or homemade pickles.
For families on vacation:
Keep it simple. Bring packaged snacks, avoid homemade food, and make sure medicines are in their original packs with prescriptions.
For elderly travellers:
Label Ayurvedic medicines clearly and carry a doctor’s note if needed. Check USDA rules before packing oils or ghee.
What You Must Declare at US Customs
All travellers must fill out a customs declaration form (Form 6059B or its digital version). Declare:
All food items, even packaged ones.
All medicines, including Ayurvedic.
Plant-based products like seeds or dried leaves.
Any item of agricultural or animal origin.
Failing to declare can lead to hefty fines - sometimes worse than carrying a prohibited item.
So, before zipping up your bag, check the latest guidelines. A little care can save you a lot of trouble at US customs.