7 Secrets to Finding the Best Souvenirs While Traveling Abroad
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
You've booked the trip of a lifetime. An adventure for the books that's complete with travel bucket list memories you'll want to cherish forever. While photos and experiences are incredible, don't deprive yourself of taking things one step further by snagging an unforgettable souvenir that we guarantee you'll want to have on full display.
Beyond your average gift shop items, we've consulted several travel experts below who gave us advice on how you can land memorable
Book a Photoshoot
A picture is worth a thousand words, which is exactly why luxury travel advisor Abby Barrett, founder of Abby Away Travel, recommends booking a photoshoot during your trip.
“My souvenir suggestion is to hire a local photographer to do a photoshoot in the destination. This way all the special moments of your trip are captured on camera, and you will be able to treasure those vacation memories for a lifetime. A travel advisor can help connect you to a reputable photographer.”
Opt for Food or Local Products
Not all souvenirs have to be materialistic, a locally-made artisan good that’s either edible or usable makes for a wonderful treat that won’t accumulate to clutter, shares Megan Brady, a travel advisor with Luxe & Nyx.
“Not as easy to travel with, but I’ll often try to find something edible or useable made locally like honey or jam or soap. Smell is one of our strongest sense memories, so when I buy little scented soaps like lavender in France or olive oil in Italy I’m transported back every time I use it!"
Be Consistent
Whether you choose patches, ornaments, magnets, or mugs, collecting the same type of item from all of the destinations you visit is a fun way to keep consistent souvenirs. Anna Gilbert, founder of boutique travel agency Upannaway, recommends using an advisor who can connect you with a guide in the local area to find all the best shops.
“Pick souvenirs that you like and stick with it throughout your travels,” Anna shares, noting that she's currently collecting patches from different destinations to display on a denim jacket.
Don't Forget the Hotel Gift Shop
Brynn Conn, VP of Retail Strategy for Montage International, recommends grabbing a momento from the the hotel gift shop before heading home, noting Montage has recently debuted their own bedding collection.
“My favorite souvenir from a trip is being able to bring the sleep experience home with me. There’s nothing quite like being able to recreate the serenity of your vacation in the comfort of your bed. Imagine returning from your journeys to the ultimate gift – the gift of revitalizing sleep. My favorite travel memento.”
Make Shopping Part of the Experience
What do they always say? You can enjoy the journey just as much as the destination. Carleigh Tully, a luxury and wildlife travel advisor with Dune Travel Group, suggests making your souvenir shopping part of your itinerary. During her own honeymoon, Carleigh stumbled upon a locally-made, hand-painted beach sign she'll cherish forever. There are tons of historic and gorgeous shopping districts to see in cities all over the world.
“We love incorporating shopping experiences into our clients' itineraries! In addition, fun experiences to collect unique items are Christmas markets, cafes, bookstores, and local artisan shops.”
Shop Small & Local
Katie Lynn Reynolds, travel advisor with KLR Travels, shares that skipping the chain stores in favor of small, locally-owned businesses is an excellent way to support the community and find a unique souvenir at the same time.
“I encourage clients to skip the big box stores at the airport and find a local shop! Shopping small helps contribute to the local economy, especially as most companies are multi-generational.”
Plan Ahead for the Packaging
So you've found the perfect souvenir, but now you have to get it home. Despite how well-packed your suitcase may be, transporting treats is always a risk. Mandy Naglich, journalist and author of How to Taste, opts for cookie tins.
"Biscuits Roses de Reims in France, Yatsuhashi cookies from Japan, or pralines from a trip to New Orleans, all of these make a perfect bite to extend the memories of your travels and are easy to share with friends and family. Plus, the tin keeps cookies from being crushed and acts as a wonderful memory where you can store tea, jewelry, or just about anything for years to come! Tasty treats and a lasting souvenir in one purchase."
You Might Also Like
