Travel expert issues warning to holidaymakers over five things you should avoid packing

A travel expert has issued an urgent warning to holidaymakers over five things you should avoid packing.

Now, during the holidays, many of us decide to fly home to visit friends and family or simply jet off someplace hotter to avoid Christmas in the chilly UK.

However, you've got to be pretty mindful as to what you end up popping in your suitcase, as you could end up in a pretty sticky situation later down the line during your trip.

A travel expert has warned against packing five specific items to five different countries (Xavier Lorenzo / Getty Images)

So, to help make sure you're packing your bag right, travel specialist Jessica Bollinger at youth travel agency KILROY has shared her handy advice and revealed which five things you should think twice about when travelling to five specific countries.

Cold and flu medicine

Now, while we're definitely in flu season - it's important to remember that popular decongestants such as Vicks and Sudafed are 'banned' in Japan.

Jessica continues: "It might seem strange, but Japan has strict laws on stimulants, and many decongestants exceed the limit allowed by Japanese authorities."

Camo print clothing

While Y2K fashion may be making a comeback, Jessica warns not to don the camo-print gear if you're planning jetting off to a Caribbean getaway.

The expert warns that camouflage clothing is banned in the Caribbean, unless you’re a member of the police or army, adding: "Despite 90s revival currently taking the pop culture world by storm, no fashion statement is worth getting in trouble with the authorities."

Wearing camo print clothing could land you in trouble in the Caribbean according to the expert (jada photo / Getty Images)

Playing cards

Many of us like to dabble in some good old-fashioned card games when travelling but, according to the expert, you're only allowed up at 120 playing cards when travelling to Thailand.

"Thailand has very strict rules on gambling. At KILROY we always advise people to be aware that any more than 120 playing cards can land you in trouble with the country’s notoriously strict police," Jessica warns.

"Gambling is banned, and if the Thai authorities notice more than 120 cards in your luggage, they might suspect you of trying to arrange illegal gambling parties, which could land you with a hefty fine. Best to just bring one pack of playing cards to avoid suspicion."

Leave the gum at home when flying to Singapore (Malte Mueller / Getty Images)

Fancy dress costumes

This may not be right up there on your 'to pack' list but anyone travelling Down Under has been warned of one outfit that you should 'steer clear of in Australia'.

"Although it may seem harmless, I’d advise you leave the Batman and Robin costume at home. These outfits are banned in Australia as they are classed as impersonating a police officer, which can land you in deep trouble with the police," Jessica adds.

Chewing gum

And last on Jessica's rundown is chewing gum when flying to Singapore, as she explains: "Whilst it might seem innocent, chewing gum is banned in Singapore for hygiene reasons, so it’s best to avoid taking it into the country.

"Mints are allowed however, so you can still have fresh breath without a fine."