Every time you travel, you create priceless memories that you would want to be reminded of even after many years, so it would be best if you had something like mementos or souvenirs from every place you went to. These items would remind you of all the amazing times and adventures you’ve had and can make you feel nostalgic.
Many travelers have developed a habit of collecting some items and keepsakes. However, sometimes, there is too much to choose from, which could feel overwhelming. So, if you’re looking for ideas on what kinds of items you should buy, then have a look at this list of products. Whether you’re taking an LDS trip or backpacking, you will find these souvenirs at your next destination.
Souvenirs Worth Your Money
Shopping for souvenirs is a great way to help local communities relying on tourists make a living. It’s a fun activity to go through shops and discover some cool items, and it will also help you grow your collection of souvenirs and travel mementos.
While some items you can buy from local shops are still made of plastic and other non-biodegradable materials, some more local artisans and crafters are turning to more sustainable items and packaging. These kinds of souvenirs are worth your money, and you wouldn’t even feel guilty for buying them. Here are a few additional items you should consider:
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Art
Supporting artists and their creations is a perfect way of supporting the local art scene and keeping something made with passion with you. Besides giving these artists your money, you’re also supporting them in various ways and making them feel seen with your decision to support their art. Going home with local art from the places you’ve visited would also give you a chance to decorate your place with them so that it would be an investment worth your money.
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Maps
In addition to being a cool purchase from places you’ve been to, Maps can also help you find your way in the city. You might be thinking it’s not worth it as your mobile phone has Google Maps and GPS anyway, but if your battery goes empty, then a physical map you can hold will be more reliable. It could be something you display on your wall once you get home and function as an odd adornment.
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Postcards
Everyone loves buying postcards, and they remain as one of the most bought gifts by travelers as they have two possible purposes: they can either be mailed or kept in your collection. If you’re the kind of person who would prefer the former, then the recipients of your postcards would truly appreciate it. If you keep some of them, then you would also have the chance to have a professionally shot photo of the places you’ve been to.
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Clothes, bags, jewelry, etc.
Scarves, pants, shirts, bags, handkerchiefs, hats, caps, sunglasses, jewelry, and other wearable items are also fantastic souvenirs as you can wear them, and they could be perfect conversation starters too. If you’re going to buy wearable items, make sure you consider getting something vintage, pre-loved, or secondhand. Something made from local businesses with eco-friendly materials is perfect as they allow you to bring home something truly unique and sustainable.
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Candles, incense, perfumes, etc.
Perfumes and colognes, as well as anything with a scent from a city you’ve recently visited, are great for bringing back memories of your trip. Scented candles, perfumes, incense, colognes, and potpourri are items you should consider. It has been scientifically proven that fragrances stimulate distinct memories and feelings when you smell something you can relate to from previous experiences. Having relics from places you’ve been, such as these, is a terrific way to recall your adventures and could even help boost your mood, as nostalgia has that effect.
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Magnets, stickers, and patches
You probably expected to see souvenirs like magnets, stickers, and patches here as they capture the essence of the places you’ve been to. They can be used as decorations on our laptops, refrigerators, and journals. Of course, if you’re going to buy some, you should support the ones made by local artists.
Many countries have experienced financial losses as the economic uncertainties, and other crises continue to worsen. So, now that traveling is easier, it would go a long way if you support the local sellers and choose your souvenirs carefully. It’s like you’re taking home a piece of your favorite places with each item.
