Can you carry cured meats in hand luggage?
Living abroad often means going without chorizo, salchichón, or lomo whenever you want them. So it’s completely normal that, when you come back home or travel again, you ask yourself: can you take Spanish cured meats in your carry-on baggage? The answer is: it depends. At Enrique Tomás, we know that finding jamón ibérico, iberico ham or jamones ibericos abroad is not always easy or affordable, so having a taste of Spain with you when you travel is always tempting. Here’s everything you need to know about when it is allowed—and when it isn’t.
Within the EU
Jamón ibérico, jamón serrano and other cured pork products can be carried in carry-on baggage within the 27 EU member states, as well as in Andorra, Liechtenstein, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and Iceland.
Outside the EU
This is a more complex question, as there is no single rule—each country has its own regulations. First, you must check whether your destination allows the entry of animal-based food products, as each country sets its own legislation.
Travelling within the EU with cured meats
Apart from these restrictions, food in carry-on baggage is generally allowed within the EU. Keep in mind that cabin baggage allowance is usually around 10 kg, although this varies depending on the airline. At Enrique Tomás, we offer a range of sliced and vacuum-packed products designed for these situations. We also have our “No te cortes” packs, presented in a fun cabin-size suitcase-style box weighing between 1.8 kg and 3 kg that include whole pieces and shoulder cuts sliced and vacuum packed. Vacuum-packed products help you save space, so you can make the most of your baggage for both clothes and food.
Can you carry cured meats in carry-on baggage outside the EU?
The answer depends entirely on your destination country. Here is a summary of the most common cases:
United States
Regulations are very strict, with strong border controls. Entry of products such as chorizo, salchichón or any meat products is not allowed. However, items like chocolate, canned fish or cheese may be permitted (max. 5 kg).
Muslim countries
Pork products are not allowed at all, which means jamón, iberico ham and other cured pork products cannot be brought into the country.
Latin America
Some countries such as Argentina, Mexico or Brazil may allow entry of certain meat products under specific regulations. Always check each country's current laws.
China
In general, entry rules may differ and some products can be permitted. Always verify the up-to-date regulations before travelling.
If it is not allowed
Don't worry—at Enrique Tomás we have stores in France, the United Kingdom, Italy and Mexico. Alternatively, family or friends can send you our vacuum-packed sliced packs, which last up to 90 days unopened.
In short: wherever you go, there’s usually a way to enjoy jamón.
