FCDO Travel Aware Summer Campaign

We’ve long supported the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in promoting its Travel Aware campaign, which helps people stay safe abroad. This summer’s focus is on the growing risks of drug smuggling, particularly linked to Thailand. With overseas arrests still on the rise, we’re proud to reinforce these vital messages.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) works to protect British nationals overseas and promote the UK’s security. One of the ways it does this is through the Travel Aware campaign, a public information initiative that helps travellers make safe, confident, and responsible choices when going overseas. The campaign highlights important travel risks, from health and safety issues to local laws and customs, so that travellers can avoid common issues and protect themselves. Prisoners Abroad works in partnership with the FCDO in promoting this campaign. 

This summer, the FCDO have launched a special Travel Aware summer campaign focused on drug carrying to raise awareness about the risks of carrying drugs in luggage. 

The FCDO and National Crime Agency (NCA) have noted a sharp increase in drug smuggling arrests involving British Nationals (BNs), both abroad and in the UK. The majority of these cases are linked to cannabis originating from Thailand, where the drug was decriminalised in 2022.  

The rise in arrests could be due to a poor understanding of the laws, and part of it is the work of organised crime groups, with the NCA linking the smuggling of cannabis to international criminal networks. It seems a number of people have been offered money or free holidays in exchange for carrying bags through customs.  

What you need to know  

Do not carry cannabis out of Thailand

It is illegal to take cannabis out of Thailand. Smuggling drugs across border can result in several penalties based on the legal systems – including long prison sentenced and, in some countries, even the death penalty.  

Do not carry cannabis through customs for someone else 

Criminal gangs are known to pressure people into carrying drugs for them. Always pack your own luggage and do not carry anything though customs for someone else. 

Do not carry drugs or anything through customs for someone else.