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Puerto Rico is an incredible travel destination with its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning scenery. Many visitors want to bring back a piece of the island with them when they return to the mainland U.S. However, there are rules about what you can and cannot bring back. To avoid surprises at the airport, here’s an updated guide to what is allowed and what is restricted when traveling from Puerto Rico to the United States.

Items You Can Bring to the U.S. Mainland

Alcohol

Travelers aged 21 or older can bring back up to 1 liter (approximately 1.06 quarts) of alcohol duty-free from Puerto Rico to the mainland U.S. Additional amounts may be subject to duty and federal excise taxes. Puerto Rico is known for its rum, so this is a great souvenir choice!

Tobacco Products

You can bring up to 100 cigars and 200 cigarettes (1 carton) duty-free. Anything above this limit may incur additional taxes.

Coffee, Spices, and Condiments

Items such as roasted coffee, packaged spices, tea, vinegar, and oils are allowed. Be sure to check that they are commercially packaged and free from any agricultural contamination.

Fruits and Vegetables

Some fruits and vegetables from Puerto Rico are permitted in the U.S., provided they have been inspected and are free of pests. Examples include:

• Pineapples
• Coconuts (without husks)
• Plantains
• Bananas

To ensure compliance, all agricultural products must be declared and inspected by the USDA before departing Puerto Rico.

Items You Cannot Bring to the U.S. Mainland

Citrus Fruits

All types of citrus fruits, including oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, are prohibited due to the risk of spreading pests and plant diseases.

Soursop, Passion Fruit, and Mangoes

These fruits are not allowed to be brought into the mainland U.S.

Cactus and Cotton Products

Cactus plants, cotton, and cotton cuttings cannot be transported to the mainland U.S.

Palm Frond Crafts

While beautiful, crafts made from palm fronds are prohibited due to the risk of carrying pests.

Other Prohibited Agricultural Items

• Fresh pigeon peas
• Plants in soil
• Seed cotton and cottonseed
• Land snails
• Pulpy seeds or nuts
• Soil
• Sugarcane
• Sweet potatoes
• Most fresh vegetables

These items are restricted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to protect the agricultural industry from potential pest infestations and plant diseases.

Additional Considerations

Declare Your Items

Regardless of whether an item is permitted or not, you must declare all food, plants, and agricultural products to USDA inspectors at the airport. Failing to do so can result in fines and delays.

USDA Inspection Process

All baggage leaving Puerto Rico undergoes USDA screening. To ensure a smooth process, present any agricultural items for inspection before departure. If your items meet entry requirements, you will be allowed to bring them with you.

For the most up-to-date guidelines, visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) website: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/traveling-with-ag-products/puerto-rico-usvi

By following these updated guidelines, you can bring back the best of Puerto Rico without any travel hiccups! Enjoy your trip and happy travels!