“Bring me back a souvenir.” We’ve all heard this said a hundred times and often we don’t think much of it, only stopping by to pick up a keychain or something simple. That can sometimes do the trick and make the person happy. However, if it’s a close friend or family member that you really want to wow, you should think about what really makes a great souvenir.
Get something that has value on its own
A good souvenir is one that isn’t good just because it’s a souvenir. It would make a good gift anyway, but the fact that it has been brought from across the world makes it even better. That’s why, if you can transport it safely and legally, buying tasty treats from abroad can be the perfect way to surprise a loved one. Otherwise, you might want to look at some of the more practical options at gift shops, or things that have value inherently, such as accessories.
Make it something they won’t see back home
One of the things that is a little disappointing about things like keychains or postcards is that they can be made just about anywhere. You can help make it extra special by getting someone something that is only made where you visit, whether it’s a specific traditional local craft or something like a flower gift made of blooms that are grown locally. It can help a gift feel much more uniquely tied to the environment that it’s supposed to represent.
Use it as a way to support the local community
If you want to try and be a more responsible traveller, you should be thinking about more than just what you get from your trip. You should also be thinking about what you get back. As such, you might find that some of the local tourist organisations that focus on things like sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of travel might sell their own souvenirs, the funding of which can go towards helping the community that you spend time in. Otherwise, you might simply want to support a local creator or craftsman, helping their economy in your own small way.
Keep something that you find organically
A souvenir doesn’t necessarily have to be the kind of thing that you might find in a gift store. If you’re staying at a beach island, for instance, scooping up a little sand and keeping it in a vial can make for a lovely token, allowing you to bring a piece of the location itself. Otherwise, even simple and mundane items, such as chopsticks from a local restaurant can be a great gift. Look at some of the local produce that might be a specialty there that’s all over the place, but rarer back home.
Souvenirs should carry some of the spirit of the place that you’ve been, but also be something that brings joy in and of itself. Hopefully, the tips above can help you pick out a more thoughtful and fun gift for your loved one.