On a multi-leg journey, each ticket should be considered separately, and a realistic amount of time should be allowed between legs for transfers and baggage handling. At the border, the decision depends on the route, nationality, purpose of the journey and the current regulations of the country of entry. Prepare your supporting documents in advance, but remember: the final assessment is made by the relevant authorities.
What to do before your trip
Check the regulations on the websites of border, customs and consular authorities specifically for your itinerary. Organise your documents in an easily accessible folder, make offline copies and prepare brief, truthful answers. Do not conceal items that are subject to declaration or inspection.
- quantity
- value
- other people’s luggage
- packaging
Step-by-step plan
Draw a simple sequence of events from arrival to your next connection. Include the route between platforms, the toilet, collecting your luggage and any queues, not just the difference in timetables.
Prepare an alternative in case of delays: the next flight, a safe place to wait and the contact details of the seller of the second ticket.
Useful links
Read more about fragile souvenirs, luggage weight and prohibited items. Current flights are available on RedRay. For rules that may change, refer to the European Commission’s official guidance on customs restrictions and the official resources of the destination country. Sources verified on 6 September 2026.
Questions and answers
Quantity: what should you do?
Be aware of the contents of every gift or parcel, and do not carry other people’s sealed packages.
Value: how to check?
Large quantities of identical new goods may not be regarded as personal gifts.
Other people’s parcels: when to prepare them?
Keep receipts for expensive items and check the value limits for the country you’re travelling to.
Packing: where to find out more?
Pack fragile items yourself and do not pack prohibited liquids, foodstuffs or aerosols without checking the regulations.