If you're planning a trip to or through Croatia this summer, watch what you carry in your luggage. As of June 1, 2026, new EU customs rules for entry by land and rail come into force, and some of them directly affect Macedonian travellers too.

The most important thing for the ordinary traveller is the limit on the value of goods that can be brought in duty-free: 300 euros for travel by land or rail, 430 euros for plane or boat, and 150 euros for children under 15. Anything above that is subject to declaration and possible duty.

The strictest rule is the one on food. Travellers from countries outside the EU - which means from Macedonia too - are not allowed to bring in meat and meat products, nor milk and dairy products. Only limited quantities of honey, eggs, baby food and pet food are permitted. So that burek with kashkaval for the road - better eaten before the border than confiscated at it.

There are limits on alcohol and cigarettes by land as well: at most 40 cigarettes, one litre of spirits or two litres of wine and beer under 22 percent, or four litres of wine or 16 litres of beer. Undeclared goods above the limit can be seized, and the traveller risks a fine too. A tip from Metla: before you set off, check your luggage - because the border officer won't honour the "I didn't know" argument.