Would you like this souvenir?
Within the online travel community, souvenirs can be a surprisingly divisive topic. Some travelers avoid them entirely, viewing them as a waste of money and an inauthentic representation of a place. Others can’t resist browsing through tourist shops filled with knick-knacks and bags prominently branded with the city’s name—even when they’re made overseas.
While I personally avoid clutter-inducing trinkets, I do enjoy bringing something back from my travels—in fact, I often regret it when I don’t. Over the years, I’ve honed my approach to souvenir shopping. With limited luggage space and a modest travel budget, I’ve learned to prioritize items that are meaningful and practical—things I can actually use in my daily life back home. That’s my golden rule: choose useful souvenirs, not dust-collectors.
So, here’s my tried-and-tested guide to the best souvenirs to bring home—whether for yourself or as gifts.
When in doubt, go for something edible.
1. Woolen Goods — Especially Socks!
In many regions, particularly Northern Europe, wool products are an excellent purchase. Socks are affordable, practical, and cozy—perfect for colder weather. Plus, you’re supporting local artisans and investing in a traditional product. The more wool in my winter wardrobe, the better!
Image: A haul from a past trip to Iceland!
2. Tea or Coffee
I’m a serious tea enthusiast—I always bring boxes home from abroad. Whether it’s Icelandic herbal tea or a local specialty, it’s a little piece of the place I visited. My friend Ginny, on the other hand, is a coffee connoisseur who’s been known to bring back six bags from a single trip!
Pro tip: Dismantle tea boxes to save space—place the bags in a Ziploc and reassemble the box later. Or opt for loose-leaf tea, which is more compact and often higher quality.
3. Sweets, Snacks, Jarred Goods, or Liquor
Again, you can’t go wrong with edible souvenirs. If you discover a local treat you love, bring some home! I still regret not buying more Tritlar from Iceland last time. This trip, I tried something new—Lindar Buff (still not Tritlar, but tasty).
I’ve also brought back honey from Switzerland, Lebkuchen from Germany or Austria, and rhubarb jam from Iceland. Even if similar products are available back home, there’s something special about enjoying a taste and memory from afar.
Note: You can’t take meat products outside the EU, even in checked luggage. Alcohol makes a great gift, but be mindful of customs limits. Beer is best bought duty-free at the airport.
4. Prints or Art
Can’t get enough of a destination? Put it on your wall! I still have a print from a trip that I’ve been meaning to frame. It’s a constant, beautiful reminder of the place.
5. Personalized wooden products
This may be a precious souvenir that can accompany you for a long time. For a reasonable fee, you can get a craft that is not only environmentally friendly and durable, but also evokes warm memories and showcases unique personality every time you see and use it
6. Clothes
Skip the chain stores—look for something unique. A locally designed rain jacket, a silk skirt from Nepal, or a dress from that boutique you’ve been eyeing online (without the crazy shipping fee). It might be a splurge, but if you budget for it, it can become a decades-long keepsake.
7. A Book or an Album
If you see a book or album that captures your interest while traveling, don’t hesitate—it might be hard to find later. I rarely buy books abroad, but I recently picked up an English-German dual reader and have zero regrets. In Iceland, I almost bought JFDR’s new album—sold inside a matcha chocolate bar! Now that’s creative packaging.
8. Spices or Salts
I love bringing back local seasonings. We still talk about returning to Budapest once our smoked paprika runs out. Icelandic herbal salt with crowberry and juniper is another recent favorite. Great for cooking or gifting!
9. Yarn
Calling all knitters! What’s better than yarn from a country known for its wool? Icelandic wool, for example, is waterproof and highly prized. If you know what you need for your next project, this is the perfect souvenir.
Image: My current work-in-progress and yarn stash—I really need to knit faster!
10. Holiday Decorations
I treasure the ornaments I’ve collected from winter trips. Unboxing them each year brings back so many memories. Keeping them stored most of the year makes their reappearance even more special.
BONUS: Shower or Bath Products
On my second trip to Iceland, I tried Sóley Organics—made with local herbs and glacial water. Using these products now transports me back to the landscapes, mossy fields, and waterfall hikes. Anything that brings back that feeling daily is worth it.
The Takeaway:
The best souvenirs are those you’ll use, consume, or see every day. They don’t have to be expensive—just meaningful. Choose what reminds you of the experience and integrates seamlessly into your life back home.