Taking cheese on holiday: here's what you need to know!

Henri Willig
By: Henri Willig
19 mei 2025
± 3 minuten

A holiday without your favourite cheese? For many cheese lovers, unthinkable. Fortunately, it is possible to take cheese with you on holiday, provided you take some important points of consideration into account. In this article, you will read all about taking cheese on holiday: from regulations to practical tips on transporting and storing cheese. So that you can also enjoy your favourite snack or spread at your holiday destinations!

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Can you take cheese with you on holiday?

Yes, in most cases you can take cheese with you on holiday, but the rules vary by country and means of transport.

  • Within the EU: If you travel within the European Union, you can bring cheese for your own use without restrictions.
  • Outside the EU: For travel to countries outside the EU, stricter rules apply. In many cases, it is forbidden to bring dairy products, including cheese. Some countries make exceptions for small quantities of cheese, provided it is vacuum-packed and made from pasteurised milk.

It is therefore essential to check the import rules of your destination beforehand.

How do you take cheese with you on holiday?

1. Vacuum packing

Vacuum packing cheese is the best way to keep it longer and transport it safely. Vacuum-packed cheese stays good for at least 8 weeks and is protected against mould growth.

2. Transport in the car

When travelling by car, it is recommended to keep vacuum-packed cheese in a cool box or cooler bag with cooling elements. This helps to keep the cheese at a constant, cool temperature, which improves its shelf life.

3. Transport on the plane

  • Hand luggage: Hard cheeses may be carried in hand luggage. Soft or spreadable cheeses fall under the liquids regulation and may only be carried in containers not exceeding 100 ml.
  • Hold baggage: Vacuum-packed cheese can be transported in hold baggage without any problems. Make sure the packaging remains intact to avoid problems at customs.

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How does cheese stay tasty on holiday?

1. Keep it cool

Once at the destination, it is important to keep the cheese cool, preferably in a fridge. If you don't have access to a fridge, a cool, dark place such as a cellar or pantry is a good alternative.

2. Packaging after opening

After opening the vacuum packaging, it is best to store the cheese in fat-free cheese paper or an airtight storage box. This prevents dehydration and preserves the flavour of the cheese.

3. Serve at room temperature

Take the cheese out of the fridge about 30 minutes before consumption. At room temperature, the flavours come out better and the cheese is easier to cut.

Key insights for taking cheese on holiday

  • Within the EU, you can bring cheese for your own use without restrictions.
  • Outside the EU, stricter rules apply; always check the import regulations of your destination.
  • Vacuum packing extends shelf life and protects the cheese during transport.
  • Refrigerated storage is essential to preserve flavour and quality.

With these tips, you can confidently take your favourite cheese on holiday and enjoy it at your destination. Order cheese easily online via our webshop and discover the tastiest, most original flavours!

Frequently asked questions

How does cheese stay tastiest on the go?

Store the cheese vacuum-packed, preferably refrigerated. For car holidays, take a cool box with you. For air travel, it is smart to take cheese out of the fridge only shortly before departure and transport it in an insulated bag with cooling elements.

How long does vacuum-packed cheese stay good?

Vacuum-packed cheese often keeps for 4-8 weeks unopened, depending on the type of cheese. Always check the THT date and store the cheese in a cool, dark place (preferably below 7°C).

Is it safe to transport cheese without refrigeration?

Hard cheeses can go several hours without refrigeration, especially if they are well packaged. Just make sure the cheese is not exposed to heat or sunlight for long periods of time to avoid loss of flavour or spoilage.

Can I import cheese outside Europe, e.g. into Canada?

This varies from country to country. To countries outside Europe, it is usually forbidden to bring animal products without special permission. Therefore, always check the import rules of the relevant country on the official government website or contact the local authorities.

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