What Food Can I Take to Spain in My Motorhome?

If you’re travelling through Spain in a motorhome, then it’s time to stock up on plenty of food and supplies.

However, when travelling around Europe, there are a few regulations regarding what food you can and cannot bring. Vehicles are often checked when driving into Spain, so you must research and plan to avoid having items confiscated or being charged a fine.

Today, Melling Motorhomes will discuss the new Brexit food regulations for travellers, including what food to bring and what items to leave behind.

Understanding Spanish Food Regulations for Travellers

Since the UK departed from the EU, many new rules and regulations have been implemented for travellers.

Like other EU countries, Spain has strict guidelines on what food you can and cannot bring to prevent the spread of diseases, pests, and contamination. The ban on animal-based products, including meat, dairy, and certain seafood, aims to protect EU agriculture from biosecurity risks.

However, these regulations vary depending on your port of entry, so carry any documentation for allowable animal-based items and check the EU food safety regulations before your trip.

Foods You Can Bring to Spain

While certain foods is prohibited, there are still plenty of items you can stock your fridge and cupboards with for your journey.

Packaged and Processed Food

As long as the items are sealed properly, any packaged or processed food is generally allowed.

Processed food typically undergoes high-heat treatments to kill bacteria, making it safe to transport. Plus, it lasts long and can be used to make a wide range of meals.

Items: Canned soup, cereals, pasta, rice, beans, biscuits, dried fruits, and chocolate.

Tip: Place these items in airtight containers to prevent contamination.

Dry and Non-Perishable Goods

Dry and shelved food is perfect for long trips, staying fresh for months. These are allowed when travelling to Spain so that you can create some delicious meals on the go.

Items: Tea bags, salt and pepper, cooking oil, flour, sugar, ground coffee, herbs, and spices.

Tip: Pack these items in small quantities that’ll last you for the trip to prevent excess luggage.

Alcohol and Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Travellers entering Spain are allowed to bring in beverages and alcoholic drinks as long as they meet the required amount.

Customs officials may check the amount of beverage you’re bringing in, so it’s best to stick to the limits.

Alcoholic

• Wine: Up to 4 litres (5 bottles).
• Spirits: Up to 1 litre per person of whisky, gin, vodka, and other strong spirits.
• Beer: Up to 16 litres (a small case of beer).

Non-alcoholic

• Soft drinks: Fizzy drinks, sparkling water, and flavoured water are great options for a road trip.
• Long-life milk and dairy alternatives: Long-life (UHT) milk and plant-based milk substitutes (almond, oat, or soy milk) are ideal for travellers. They don’t require refrigeration before opening.
• Juices: Bottled fruit juice is an ideal source of vitamins and provides a refreshing break from water.
• Energy and sports drinks: If you’re planning any hikes or strenuous activities, energy and sports drinks are great to store.

Foods to Leave Behind

There are various types of products that Spain has banned when crossing its borders.

Leaving these items behind will prevent confiscation, fines, or long inspections at customs. These food products include dried, smoked, fresh, or canned meat and dairy items.

Meat and Dairy Products

Meat and dairy products are seen as harbourers of germs and diseases, such as foot-and-mouth disease, which can pose a risk to the ecosystem.

Items: Bacon, ham, fresh or packaged sausages, steak, poultry, yoghurt, eggs, butter, cheese, and milk.

Tip: Switch out your meat products for plant-based alternatives so you can enjoy the taste without the hassle.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruit and vegetables can contain harmful bacteria or pests. Bringing these into Spain can risk the spread of diseases or cause the outbreak of an invasive species.

Items: Bananas, apples, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, and leafy greens.

Tip: Buy fresh fruit and vegetables from supermarkets in Spain so you can cook healthy and delicious meals whilst you’re there.

Animal-Based Products

Although animal-based goods are typically restricted, there are some exceptions for particular foods in small amounts.

For example, limited quantities of honey (often up to 2 kg) and fish and shellfish (up to 20 kg per person) can be imported into Spain. However, larger quantities will be confiscated.

Items: Raw honey, smoked salmon, shellfish, caviar, and fresh fish.

Tip: Enjoy all of your favourite foods by visiting the fresh markets and seafood in Spain.

Homemade Foods and Open Packages

Homemade food and open packages are harder to expect, increasing the risk of people sneaking in illegal substances or contaminated food. The following items should be avoided:

Items: Home-baked goods, homemade sauces, soups, and stews, pre-made sandwiches, and open-packaged meals.

Tip: Only bring sealed food items with you and cook from scratch once you arrive in Spain.

Unprocessed Plant-Based Items, Nuts, and Seeds

Plant-based items like nuts and seeds can be restricted based on their place of origin and whether they could harm Spanish agriculture. Certain nuts can contain pests, while raw nuts can cause invasive plant species.

Items: Unroasted nuts, raw nuts, and grains intended for planting.

Tip: For a tasty snack on the road, pack processed or roasted nuts in an airtight, concealable bag.

High-Risk Processed Foods

Processed food that contains fresh ingredients or animal products can also be restricted. Even if the item has been ‘processed,’ it may be reused at the border if it contains meat, dairy, or restricted ingredients.

Items: Canned soups, dried pasta sauces containing cheese or meat, meat-based instant noodles, and tinned stews with meat.

Tip: Pack vegetable-based sauces or soups and check ingredient labels before packing.

Prepare for a Memorable Trip with Melling Motorhomes

Journeying across Spain in a motorhome is the perfect way to explore this beautiful country at your own pace.

With Melling Motorhomes, our vehicles to rent offer a reliable, comfortable home on wheels, equipped with everything you need for a memorable and stress-free journey.

From 2-berth to 6-berth motorhomes, you can rent one of our luxurious vehicles today to embark on the journey of a lifetime.