Aim for Experiences Over Buying Tacky Souvenirs
Alternatives to Buying Souvenirs
When it comes to travel souvenirs, some people think traditional items of fridge magnets, ornaments and t-shirts, yet there are loads of alternatives to buying souvenirs.
Whilst these items are still popular by some travellers, others are looking for more sustainable souvenir alternatives, which provide great memories and can also provide a more beneficial outcome for local communities.
Some alternatives to buying object type souvenirs, are opting for experiences and activities, that can provide great happiness, meaning, laughter, adventure, it really depends on what interests you to find a suitable experience or activity.
Some experiences can include:
- Join a free walking city tour
- Sign up for local cuisine cooking class
- Attend a yoga class
- Hire a bicycle to explore the wider local area
- Participate in local festival / carnival event
- Connect with locals in a city food tour
- Enrol in local handicraft class
- Attend local language lessons
If you’re looking to still buying “something” to take home, ask locals for their suggestions of items that are traditional and authentic to the destination. Try to avoid where possible, mass produced items that you see in all tourist shops. Instead aim to buy items which provide income and economic benefit direct to the local people, rather than going either to offshore businesses or larger corporations.
Some suggestions for items to buy:
- Locally made crafts; jewellery, small pieces of artwork (painting can easily roll up in your luggage)
- Locally made clothing and accessories; belt, knitted scarf, purse, bag
- Food produce, coffee, tea, nuts, sauces, condiments, chocolates etc (check your local government laws if this is permitted back home)
- Book or novel about the destination
- Blank journal or notebook from the destination
Be open to exploring other options other than traditional touristy souvenirs when you travel. Other activities can bring you much more joy and wonderful memories than something you may never look at again once you’re at home.
