Has anyone taken a seashell out of Thailand with a receipt?

Exporting unprocessed shells and corals from Thailand is strictly prohibited — this is clearly stated in the country’s customs regulations. You are allowed to take a shell with you only if it has been treated with lacquer or is marked as a souvenir. Don’t forget to keep the receipt!

How to tell a souvenir shell from an untreated one:

Texture. A real shell has a rough, bumpy surface and may contain tiny air bubbles. Souvenir shells are usually smooth.

Color. A real shell shimmers depending on the angle of light, while souvenir shells tend to have a uniform color.

Smell. If you heat a small piece of a shell with a lighter, a real one will give off an unpleasant odor, similar to burnt hair. A fake one will smell synthetic or might not smell at all.

Of course, some tourists manage to take shells or corals out of Thailand. But it’s a risky move: you could face a hefty fine or even jail time.

Instead, consider other memorable souvenirs from Thailand — many of which can be found at night markets. Also, check out the article Where to Buy Souvenirs in Thailand for more recommended shopping spots.