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Are you looking for original souvenirs to take home from your trip? Something tangible that reminds you of that one destination, but also really adds something to your home or daily life? In this article I share 11 unique souvenir ideas: from unique wall masks to handwritten recipes from locals. Get inspired and discover how to give your travel stories a lasting place!
1. Wall masks as travel decorations.
My first tip for an original souvenir is a wall mask. I started collecting these during my first trip to Uganda and since then I try to bring home a mask from every destination. Not in every travel destination masks are easy to find, but then it makes it a fun challenge and thus very original!
Tip: Write on the back of the mask which country you brought it from.
2. Handmade figurines for your interior
Like me, do you love art and decoration in your home? Then figurines are really recommended to collect. I personally prefer to take black or natural tones, because they fit nicely into our interior. But of course you can do anything you want! Figurines from abroad make your home more cozy and full of stories.
3. Art and illustrations by local artists
Do you already have enough figurines in your home or aren't into that? Then check out a local market or gallery for a drawing or painting by a local artist. A special keepsake you can hang on the wall at home!
4. Send yourself postcards: a special reminder
A super fun idea I once heard from other travelers: at each destination, send a card to yourself, Briefly write down what you did, what restaurants or places you liked, or just what you were feeling at that moment. When you get home there will be a pile of memories waiting for you. So much fun!
5. Creative ways to collect magnets
Bringing magnets home from your travel destination is a classic, but you can get creative. Look for magnets that belong to the place where you are. Handmade, vintage or just a little crazy. Hang them on the refrigerator or paint a piece of wall with magnetic paint and make it a souvenir wall. You can even frame them for an extra cool effect.
6. Taking home local herbs and spices
In almost every country you can find a special and local herb used in cooking. Collect these and put them in a jar at home where you also put the name of the herb. Just the smell of the spice brings you right back to the travel destination. Think ras al hanout from Morocco or kaffir lime leaves from Thailand, for example.
7. Tea and coffee as tasty souvenirs
Not a fan of spices, but love tea or coffee? Try to bring a local product from each destination, think Japanese matcha, Indian chai or Luwak coffee from Indonesia. Great to drink at home, keep in a jar or give as a gift to a coffee lover!
8. Jewelry from local makers
Wouldn't you prefer souvenirs for your home, but would like something personal? Then look for jewelry or accessories made locally. A ring or necklace is often small and subtle, but can be full of memories. In Bali, for example, you can make your own rings during a workshop!
9. Framing coins and stationery
Keep a few different coins or letter money from each country. You can make a nice collage of them at home by placing them in a frame, for example. That way you will have a unique work of art!
10. Handwritten recipes: start your own world cookbook
I would have loved to have done this idea from my first trip, so hopefully I can inspire you with this from your first trip!
On vacation you are often surprised by an explosion of flavors, how nice would it be to be able to share this at home? Ask the owner of the guesthouse where you are staying, the chef from whom you are taking a cooking class or a random local if they will write down a traditional recipe for you. If necessary, take a picture of that person to make the recipe book even more personal. This way you create your own international cookbook full of memories!
11. A travel memories box by destination
Do you often take all kinds of small things like tickets, bills, coins and stones with you? And don't really know where to put them? Then make a nice memory box per country in which you keep everything. Put them together in a closet and you have a nice collection full of stories!
Get inspired for your next adventure
After reading this article, do you already feel like packing your bags? Do you dream of an iconic train trip, a culinary exploration or an inspiring workation? There's always an adventure to suit you.
Get further inspiration with our tips for the best train journeys in the world, discover the top 5 culinary destinations in Europe, plan your next trip with our favorites for the best city trips in Europe, or read all about how to be able to combine travel and work. Wherever you go, it all starts with a little travel inspiration!
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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