Many travellers from Bosnia and Herzegovina still do not know exactly what they are allowed to bring into the EU, to cross the border into Croatia which is now a member of the Schengen border-free EU zone. And sometimes this ignorance can be expensive.

As a member state of the European Union, Croatia does not allow the import of meat, milk and dairy products from countries outside the EU. And as Bosnia and Herzegovina is still a non-EU country crossing the border into Croatia can prove problematic.

Although citizens are constantly warned that the transfer of fresh meat or cured meat products, as well as the transfer of dairy products, fruits and vegetables across the borders of the European Union, is strictly prohibited, some of them do not know or do not pay attention to these warnings and pay large fines, writes N1.

One such case happened when a passenger crossing the border into Croatia from Bosnia and Herzegovina was caught with 34 packets of cigarettes and 7.5 kilograms of cured meat in his car.

The driver failed to report this to the customs officer, so when the meat and cigarettes were discovered they were confiscated and a hefty fine of 1,650 euro was handed out. If the driver fails to pay the fine on time he could face prison time.

The import of meat, milk, dairy products, fruit and vegetables from third countries (BiH, Serbia, Montenegro, etc.) into Croatia is not allowed, whilst the import of up to 20 kg of fish, shellfish and fish products is allowed. It is allowed to bring in two packs (40 pieces) of cigarettes and a litre of alcoholic beverage. If you are unsure on the limits check the relevant website before making the journey.