As a family who loves to travel, we’re always on the lookout for unique souvenirs to bring back home. While postcards and keychains are nice, we prefer items that are more meaningful and reflect the culture of the places we’ve visited. I’m sharing our top 20 unique souvenirs to collect while traveling. These items are not only beautiful and functional, but they also make great conversation starters and bring back fond memories of our trips. Plus, there is a complimentary printable for you to print and take along with you on your next adventure.
1. Local spices or seasonings from markets or specialty shops:
One of our favorite things to collect while traveling is local spices and seasonings. Not only do they add flavor to our meals, but they also make great gifts for foodie friends back home.
2. Handmade textiles or fabrics, such as scarves, blankets, or table runners:
Handmade textiles are not only beautiful, but they also tell a story of the local culture and traditions. We love collecting scarves and table runners from around the world.
3. Artwork or prints from local artists or galleries:
Bringing back a piece of local art is a great way to support the local arts scene and add a unique touch to your home decor.
4. Antique or vintage items from flea markets or antique shops:
Flea markets and antique shops are treasure troves of unique and one-of-a-kind items. We love browsing for vintage postcards, old photographs, and other interesting finds.
5. Handwritten recipes or cookbooks from local chefs or cooks:
If you’re a foodie like us, collecting handwritten recipes or cookbooks from local chefs or cooks is a must. Not only do they provide great cooking inspiration, but they also make great souvenirs.
6. Seeds or plant cuttings from local gardens or parks:
For green thumbs, collecting seeds or plant cuttings from local gardens or parks is a great way to bring a piece of the local flora back home.
7. Handmade jewelry, clothing, or shoes from local artisans:
Local artisans often have unique and beautiful creations that you won’t find anywhere else. We love collecting handmade jewelry, clothing, and shoes as souvenirs.
8. Musical instruments or records from local music shops:
If you’re a music lover, collecting musical instruments or records from local music shops is a great way to bring back a piece of the local music scene.
9. Local beer or wine from microbreweries or wineries:
Trying local beer or wine is a must when traveling, but bringing back a bottle or two as a souvenir is even better. We’ve brought back cava from Barcelona. It’s a great way to share your travel experience with friends and family back home.
10. Handcrafted pottery or ceramics from local artists or studios:
Handcrafted pottery or ceramics often have a unique style and beauty that reflects the local culture and traditions. We love collecting mugs and bowls from around the world.
11. Specialty teas or coffee blends from local cafes or shops:
If you’re a tea or coffee lover, collecting specialty blends from local cafes or shops is a great way to bring back a taste of the local culture. Moroccan mint tea is amazing. If you happen to visit, make sure you grab some to bring back home.
12. Handwritten letters or postcards from new friends or acquaintances:
Making new friends while traveling is one of the best parts of the experience. Collecting handwritten letters or postcards from them is a great way to remember those connections.
13. Local honey or jam from farmer’s markets or specialty shops:
Local honey or jam is not only delicious, but it also makes a great gift for foodie friends back home.
14. Unique spices or blends from local tea or spice shops:
Spices and blends from local tea or spice shops often have a unique flavor and aroma that you won’t find anywhere else. We love bringing back spices from our travels to Morocco and Dubai. If you happen to visit either of these places, check out their old souks.
Related: Moroccan Shopping Guide: What to Buy When in Morocco
15. Handmade soaps, candles, or incense from local artisans or apothecaries:
Bring the scent of your travels back home with you by picking up some handmade soaps, candles, or incense from local artisans or apothecaries. These products are often made using locally-sourced ingredients and can be a great way to support small businesses.
16. Books or literature from local authors or publishers:
Immerse yourself in the local culture by picking up books or literature from local authors or publishers. Whether you’re interested in history, fiction, or travel writing, you’re bound to find something that will pique your interest.
17. Shells or rocks from local beaches, rivers, and lakes:
Take a piece of the natural world home with you by collecting shells or rocks from local beaches, rivers, and lakes. These items can make for great decorations or paperweights and can serve as a reminder of your time spent in nature.
18. Local coins and currency (if traveling to another country):
Collecting local coins and currency can be a fun and unique way to remember your travels. Be sure to check with your bank to see if they accept foreign currency and how to exchange it.
19. Beeswax candles from beekeepers or honey shops:
Pick up some sweet treats by visiting local beekeepers or honey shops. Local honey can make for a delicious souvenir, while beeswax candles can add a cozy touch to your home.
20. Handmade leather goods from local craftsmen or boutiques:
Invest in a high-quality souvenir by picking up handmade leather goods from local craftsmen or boutiques. From wallets to bags, these items can be both practical and stylish. We particularly recommend checking out Fez, Morocco known for its leather goods.
We hope this list has inspired you to collect some unique souvenirs on your next adventure. Remember, souvenirs can be a wonderful way to cherish your travel memories for years to come. Whether you’re looking for practical items or decorative pieces, there’s bound to be something that catches your eye. And don’t forget, supporting local artisans and businesses is always a great way to give back to the places you visit.
To make it easier for you to keep track of these unique souvenirs, we’ve created a free printable checklist that you can download and use for your travels. Simply print it out, pack it in your suitcase, and start collecting! We hope you enjoy using it and happy travels!
