Traveling in and out of Aruba is usually no problem, but sometimes people think they can’t bring certain types of food due to customs or restrictions. Here are some basics of what you can bring into Aruba without any problem, and what you need to declare.
Bringing Food into Aruba
If you are coming from the United States, Canada or Europe then there is no problem bringing food into Aruba. But if you are coming from a country that has been infected with avian flu (bird flu), then your food items have to be declared and inspected at customs. The reason for this is because of the avian flu. If you are on a cruise ship that docks in Aruba, then ask your cruise line about their policy before you arrive in Aruba.
If you are bringing any fresh fruits or vegetables, then make sure that they are packaged properly so that bugs cannot get into them and contaminate them. Also make sure that all fruit juices, jams and jellies are sealed well so that no bugs can get into them either.
If you have any questions about bringing food into Aruba or about what kind of food items you can bring into the island, ask your airline or cruise line when booking your trip.
Bringing Alcohol into Aruba
You can bring food and drink into Aruba as long as it is not from the US or Europe. You are allowed to bring in one liter of alcohol per person, up to two cartons of cigarettes and a reasonable amount of perfume.
- Can I bring Marijuana into Aruba?
You cannot bring marijuana into Aruba. If you are caught with any amount of marijuana, you will be arrested and charged with possession of drugs. A conviction could result in a prison sentence of up to 12 years.
In general, there are no restrictions on what you can bring into Aruba. However, there are some prohibitions on certain items such as firearms, weapons and narcotics.
If you are planning to bring your own food or drinks into Aruba, here is a list of things that you should know:
- Alcohol: You can bring up to one liter of alcohol per person for personal use. This includes bottles of wine (red or white), beer and liquor. If you want to bring more than one liter of alcohol into the country, you will need to pay an import fee of $2 per liter above the limit.
- Food: You can bring fresh fruit and vegetables from outside the island into Aruba with no restrictions. You must declare all other food items at customs so they can be inspected for pests or diseases before being allowed into the country.
Bringing Cigarettes into Aruba
Aruba is a beautiful island, and it’s easy to see why so many tourists flock here each year. You’ll find plenty of shopping options on the main strip, but if you’re looking for a more authentic experience, try visiting one of the local markets.
If you’re planning on staying in Aruba for an extended period of time and want to bring food with you, there are some things that you should know about bringing food into Aruba.
There are no restrictions on bringing any type of medication with you into Aruba. However, there are certain items that may require special clearance. These include:
Cigarettes and cigars – If you’re 18 years old or older, it is legal for you to bring up to two cartons of cigarettes into Aruba. If you are under 18 years old, it is illegal for you to bring cigarettes into Aruba at all.
Alcoholic beverages – There are no restrictions on bringing alcoholic beverages into Aruba as long as they are less than 70% alcohol by volume (ABV). If they are higher than 70% ABV then they must be accompanied by an import permit obtained from the Ministry of Justice prior to arrival at the airport or port of entry in Aruba
List of Food Allowed in Aruba
- The list of food allowed in Aruba is a little more complicated than other countries.
- The main reason for this is that in Aruba, we have an island with a small population. We have to import everything from outside the island and we have to do it safely.
- Aruba has a very strict policy on the food that can be brought into the country. This is because we want to make sure that the food, we eat is safe and healthy.
- You can find all the information about what you can bring in your luggage here:
How to Get Plant-Based Food in Aruba
Aruba has a thriving plant-based community, and many restaurants are offering vegan options. Here are some tips on how to get plant-based food in Aruba:
1. Bring your own food
2. Contact the hotel you’re staying at ahead of time to ask if they can accommodate special diets
3. Visit one of the local supermarkets like Holup, which has an entire aisle dedicated to vegan products
Conclusion
Regardless, you’ll have to declare—voluntarily—any food items you bring in with you. You could be detained or have your items confiscated if you do not have a permit or do not declare your items. You’ll need to plan ahead and keep in mind Aruba’s strict policies regarding the transport of catering items and food.
