When traveling, it’s a great opportunity to find unique items you won’t find at the local mall or even on Amazon. Whether it’s a trinket, practical item, or food, here are ten unique souvenirs to bring home from your travels.
10. Local Artwork
One way to support your host destination during your travels is to purchase local artwork. You’re bound to find some unique pieces. That’s true whether you’re abroad or in the States. Every time you look at your wall or mantel, you’ll be reminded of your trip. And who knows? That little piece of art could increase in value over time.
9. Pottery or Mugs
Mugs are great items to buy on your travels as souvenirs or gifts. Everyone knows a coffee drinker. You can find some truly unique mugs. Any type of pottery vessel also makes an excellent souvenir or gift, such as cups, bowls, plates, or vases. The best places to find handmade pottery are coffee shops, art fairs, or small art galleries.
8. Clothing
If you don’t want to dress in clothing similar to everyone else, pack light and leave room to buy clothing on your travels. It’s one sure way to have style, flair, and a wardrobe that differs from others. The great thing about buying clothing is that it’s a functional item and souvenir that will always remind you of your trip.
7. Locally-Made Soaps
Locally-made soaps are unique items that are excellent souvenirs or gifts. Plus, they’ll no doubt remind you of your travels, at least as long as the bar lasts. There’s a good chance you’ll find a soap bar with unusual colors and scents based on local aromatics. You can also find familiar scents such as patchouli, sandalwood, myrrh, or vanilla.
6. Scarves
Scarves make excellent souvenirs and gifts. They are also unique from region to region, therefore, unlike the designs you’d find at home. The great thing about scarves is they are reusable. You can protect your head in a downpour, add some style to your outfit, or even use one as a blanket on chilly planes, boats, and trains.
5. Nonperishable Foods
Some food items are unique to their locale. They might be emulated elsewhere but are never truly equal. The good news is you can bring some nonperishable foods home with you. Belgian chocolate? Tea from England? Stroopwafels from Amsterdam? Check. These items and more make great souvenirs and gifts! Check with local laws regarding alcohol.
4. Jewelry
Styles vary from region to region, so it’s likely you’ll find jewelry items that are unique compared to those you’d find in stores at home. The design, materials, colors, and overall expression will set you apart from those who purchase jewelry at the local mall. It also ensures no one will be wearing the same pieces as you.
3. Postcards
Postcards are not only unique items; many are works of art in their own right. Some people enjoy collecting postcards. While traveling, it’s fun to find postcards and mail them to friends and family. Don’t forget to purchase and mail a unique one to yourself. It makes an excellent souvenir. Write yourself a little note: “Enjoying Paris! August 20, 2024.”
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2. Fleamarket Finds
One place to find unique items and bargains is to visit local flea markets. These items may be unique to that very specific town. You may find vintage or antique items found nowhere else, and certainly cheaper than visiting an antique shop or tourist trap. Things don’t have to be new to make a great gift or souvenir.
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1. Anything You Need
Lastly, anything that you need. People often buy items they forgot to bring with them while traveling. However, you might also spot something you need at home. It could be a unique item you can’t find at home, but realize it is something you can use. A bonus is that this item will always remind you of your trip.
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