Love it or hate it, souvenir shopping remains a significant part of many travelers' itineraries. Bringing home a special memento helps commemorate experiences and infuse daily life with travel magic. However, the overwhelming array of tourist shop offerings often feels inauthentic. To avoid collecting meaningless knickknacks, a more mindful approach is recommended—choosing items that serve a purpose or hold sentimental value. HuffPost asked travel industry professionals to share their must-buy souvenirs. Here are their top picks.
Functional Clothing
Gabby Beckford, travel expert and founder of Packs Light, always buys clothes. She explains, “Clothes are functional and practical. Wearing them constantly reminds me of the trip, keeping memories alive even at home.”
Local Grocery Finds
Jessica van Dop DeJesus, founder of The Dining Traveler, loves local supermarkets and outdoor markets for condiments, chocolates, and wines. “In Greece, I bought Greek honey; in Spain, tinned seafood; and in Puerto Rico, locally produced coffee. Friends prefer food items over mugs or T-shirts.” Katy Nastro, spokesperson for Going, adds, “I buy unique chips from local grocery stores. Poulet rôti chips from France were a huge hit!”
Postcards with Memories
Esther Susag, travel blogger, always buys a postcard and writes her favorite memories on the back. “I find one that resonates, whether a photo or a beautiful design. It helps me recall the small things that made each trip special.”
Local Art and Crafts
Sean Lau, travel blogger, seeks local artisanal crafts. “They support the local economy and connect me to culture. Pottery, hand-painted tiles, weaving, or wood carving tell a story.” Laura Motta, digital editorial director at Lonely Planet, agrees: “Handmade items that can’t be found online are best. I love choosing art by local artists.”
Magnets
Phil Dengler, co-founder of The Vacationer, collects magnets from states, cities, national parks, and countries. “They’re cheap, great reminders every time I open the fridge. My Yosemite National Park magnet with Half Dome brings back the 15-mile hike.” Melissa DaSilva, president of Trafalgar North America, adds, “Magnets fit in your personal item, are affordable, and your fridge becomes a gallery of memories.”
Snow Globes
Elie Michaels, vice president of operations at Advantage Rent a Car, collects snow globes. “They charmingly encapsulate the essence of places I visit, making perfect mementos.”
Local Jewelry
Nastro buys jewelry from local boutiques for herself. “Earrings or necklaces are easy to pack, and supporting local artisans makes the piece more special and purposeful.”
This story was originally published on HuffPost.
