Souvenirs that don’t suck
How to pick the right souvenirs
Traveling is an amazing experience that creates unforgettable memories (the ultimate souvenir), but sometimes we want physical momentos to remind us of our adventures. Forget the tired t-shirts and magnets and look for unique items that support local artists. Here are some ideas to help you find great souvenirs that really capture your travels and hold special meaning.
#1 — Art Prints and Posters
Bringing back art prints and posters from local artists while traveling is a great way to remember and celebrate your adventures. You can find these unique pieces in local markets, galleries, and craft fairs, where artists show off their work. Picking out art that connects with your values or brings back memories of your travels adds a special touch to your home. Each piece has its own story and lets you think back on the cultures and landscapes you’ve experienced. When you display these artworks, your home becomes a personal gallery, showcasing your love for creativity and the diverse experiences that help shape your life. Pro-tip: get creative and check out posters from local businesses like microbreweries or consider framing handmade postcards.
#2 — Shop Local Brands For Everyday Items
This is one of my favorite types of souvenirs but can take some effort and research ahead of time. Picking up unique everyday items (think shoes, bags, clothes) from local brands when you travel not only supports locally-owned and operated businesses and allows you to incorporate memories from your travels into your everyday life. For years I had been eyeing a new crossbody purse but waited until I was on a work trip to Paris and picked up a bag from a French-brand, Soeur. Everytime I use this bag, I think back to my trip to France. One of my all-time favorite souvenirs is an oversized corduroy button-up shirt from a Portugal-based flannel company I found while exploring Porto.
#3 — Local Handicrafts
Bringing back local crafts as souvenirs from your travels is a great way to remember a place and support local artists. Things like handmade jewelry, woven baskets, and colorful fabrics not only capture the vibe of the culture but also make for special gifts. Each item has a story, showcasing traditional skills and the creativity of the community. By picking these genuine pieces, travelers can help promote sustainability and honor the traditions of the places they explore, making their travel memories even more special. Pro-tip: look for smaller items that could double as a holiday ornament.
#4 — Local Wine and Spirits
Bringing back wine and liquor from your travels is a fun way to share a taste of your adventure with friends and family. Check out local breweries, wineries, and distilleries for unique finds you won't see back home. Look for stuff that really captures the region's vibe and flavor, since these can make the memories last longer. Just remember to double-check airline rules about bringing liquids on board, and maybe get a travel case to keep your treasures safe. We recommend getting a few of these reusable bottle sleeves - stash them into your luggage for the next time you find a bottle of Pinot Noir you can’t live without.
#5 — Packaged Food and Spices
If you’re anything like us, eating our way through a country is our favorite way to travel. So, naturally, food is the first thing we miss when we come home. Bringing back packaged foods and spices from your travels can be a fun way to keep those experiences alive and share some unique tastes with your friends and family. Just keep in mind, there are some customs rules you need to know about when it comes to bringing in food. So stock up your kitchen with your favorite olive oil, chocolates, honey, snacks, and spices, and recreate your favorite dishes to cure your post-trip blues.