10 Unique Souvenir Ideas to Help You Remember Your Trip

Picture this: you're strolling through a bustling open-air market on the plaza in Santa Fe - the sun's warm embrace on your shoulders, a vibrant array of jewelry and leather goods as far as the eye can see, and the smell of roasting green chile in the air. Your heart races as you stumble upon a quaint stall filled with beautifully hand-crafted turquoise pieces, each one whispering a tale of New Mexico’s rich culture. You purchase one, and suddenly, you're not just a traveler… You're a collector of memories. 

While keychains and snowglobes certainly have their place, we're here to take your travel memento game to a whole new level. Let’s explore the art of collecting unique and unforgettable treasures that'll have you reminiscing about your adventures long after the tan lines have faded and the sand is swept from your suitcase.

1. Christmas Ornaments - This one is particularly nostalgic for me as it’s a tradition that my mom and dad started that I’ve adopted with my husband, too! My favorite part about it is that each year as you decorate the tree, you get to reminisce on your travels.

2. Local Artwork - Whether it’s paintings, photographs, or ceramics, local artwork captures the essence of your destination while also helping you decorate your home once you’re back - a true win-win!

3. Currency - I got this idea from a creator on TikTok (I’m so sorry I don’t remember who it was, but please tag below if you know!) who collected small amounts of local currency and then saved them in labeled envelopes to give to her kids. The thought was that when they traveled to a new country, they could open the corresponding envelope and then their first drink / meal would be on her. So fun!

4. Unique Food and Spices - This is one of my absolute favorite things to bring home and always makes the perfect gift for friends and family.

5. Cookbooks - In the same vein as food and spices, you can pick up a cookbook that highlights local cuisine so that you can still eat like you’re traveling even once you’re back home.

6. Pressed Flowers or Leaves - If something more natural is your style, you can opt for finding a beautiful leaf or flower to take home with you - just be mindful and collect smartly so that natural beauty is preserved for others to enjoy.

7. Postcards - During your trip, take a moment to sit down and write yourself a postcard and send it home! Not only will you be able to document your trip, you’ll also get a local stamp and have something fun in the mail to come back to.

8. Music - Before arriving at your destination, take a second to research some local musicians and make a curated playlist for your trip! My husband and I did this before roadtripping around Iceland, and every time we hear one of those songs again it takes us right back.

9. Perfume or Fragrances - For many, scents and memories are intricately intertwined - if you’re one of those people, picking up a perfume or a candle that reminds you of your trip can make for the perfect memento.

10. An Experience - This one is more about the memories than something physical, but take advantage of a local activity like a cooking class, a hike, or anything else that strikes your fancy - the photos and impressions will last a lifetime!

What do you collect to help remember your trips? Let us know in the comments below!