When you take an international trip, it's natural to worry about forgetting your passport, getting confused by exchange rates, or having to unpack all your electronics at airport security. You're probably not going to stress about something as innocent as chewing gum, a laser pointer, or a banana in your baggage. But in some countries, security at international arrivals would confiscate those items – and if you don't declare them and they're found, you could be fined, or even jailed, for smuggling contraband.

Here are some surprising – and sometimes downright bizarre – items that you're better off leaving behind.

8 things you can't take across borders

1.   Chewing gum: Singapore

You'd think a minty chew to keep your breath fresh on arrival is a harmless travel companion. Not in Singapore. This pristine city-state has the strictest chewing gum ban in the world, so that nobody can plaster it onto public transport sensors and cause train breakdowns, or litter streets and housing estates with the sticky pollution. Only therapeutic gum is allowed (for dental treatment or nicotine replacement), and even then, don't dare spit it out in public. The fine will ruin your holiday budget.

2.   Vapes and e-cigarettes: Multiple countries

Your vape may be legal in South Africa, but you could puff your way into serious trouble abroad. More than 40 countries have some kind of ban on vapes. Some restrict imports, others ban their sale, and a few have outlawed them completely. In Japan, for instance, nicotine vapes are illegal, but heated tobacco devices are totally fine. The rules change fast, so always check before you fly.

3.   Plastic bags: Mostly African and European destinations

Bringing your own plastic bags 'just in case' may seem practical, but in many countries it's illegal. More than 90 countries have restrictions on plastic bags to protect the environment. Some charge a fee, while others ban them outright – especially thinner ones that are harder to recycle. Africa leads with strong bans, while Europe is phasing out plastic packets fast. Play it safe and pack a reusable tote instead.

4.   Laser pointers: Australia

They may seem like useful classroom aids and innocent cat toys, but high-powered laser pointers are classified as weapons in Australia. There have been incidents in which they were used to blind pilots and drivers, causing major safety concerns. Under the current law, carrying one without authorisation can get you up to 2 years in prison, so leave the light show at home.

5.   Used mattresses: Canada

We're not sure why you'd want to take your old mattress on holiday, but just in case you do: Canada says no. To protect public health, Canada prohibits the import of used mattresses, a measure to reduce the spread of pests like bed bugs. Used mattresses must be professionally cleaned and fumigated before they can be imported. It's probably easier just to stick to reputable, clean hotels...

6.   Poppy seeds: Singapore, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia, and others

You might love poppy seed muffins, but in several countries, they're seen as a drug risk. Singapore, Taiwan, and Saudi Arabia ban them outright due to their morphine content and the risk of people using the seeds to grow opium poppies. Even carrying a spice blend containing poppy seeds could land you in hot water. Check your snack ingredients carefully before flying into these zones.

7.   Baby walkers: Canada

Canada banned baby walkers in 2004, following mounting concern over years of injuries. Little ones in walkers are at a higher risk of falling down stairs, knocking over potentially dangerous household items, and various other accidents. It's illegal to sell, import or even give a walker away in Canada. If you want to treat your bestie's newborn in Vancouver, you should rethink that baby shower gift.

8.   Fruit and vegetables: Australia and New Zealand

When European and Asian immigrants arrived in Australia and New Zealand, they brought with them many new fruit and vegetable crops and non-indigenous animals. What they didn't realise until much later, is that the indigenous plants and animals of Australasia had evolved for so long in isolation, they were often unable to out-compete the invasive aliens. Trying to reverse this damage, both countries are now extra vigilant about tourists bringing in almost any non-native plants or animals. If you're packing a bag of naartjies as comfort food, best you finish them on the plane.

Planning a trip? Travel smart with Nedbank

Whether you're off to Singapore, Sydney or San Francisco, the last thing you want is to lose time or money over an unexpected travel blunder. Here's how Nedbank can help you explore with confidence:

• Pack peace of mind with Nedbank Travel Insurance, which covers you for medical emergencies, cancellations and baggage hiccups.
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Let us help you take care of the essentials, so all you have to worry about is checking your luggage for anything that would be taboo at your destination.