When backpacking, especially on longer trips, I often struggle with fitting souvenirs into my backpack. I love a good tourist shop – and I’m constantly talking myself out of buying things because they’ll take up too much space in my bag.
After travelling to 30 countries, I’ve finally found my souvenir rhythm. I stick to a few specific items I look for in every country, plus a couple of unique items that I’ll only be able to find in that place.
If you’re like me and love to bring something home to remind yourself of a trip but don’t have enough space, here’s my backpackers-proof list of souvenirs I typically keep an eye out for when travelling:
Jewelry
The key to keeping souvenirs out of your backpack
Wearable items are the ultimate backpacking souvenir – since you don’t have to pack them! Bracelets, especially those adjustable string bracelets, are some of my favourite pieces I’ve picked up over the years.
Necklaces and rings are also great choices, and you can find all these unique pieces at local markets!
Pins
The classic backpacker souvenir
Pins are my #1 souvenir of choice. I’ve collected one from every country (except two) that I’ve been to. They’re the perfect choice because they take up barely any space, are reasonably priced, and are really cute.
You can always find them in tourist shops. You can also sometimes find them at local markets (usually cheaper!).
Stickers
Your Nalgene’s best friend
Another great choice that takes up no space and are super cute! I always find the best sticker designs when travelling. You can put them on your computer, water bottle, suitcase, etc. I personally love covering my water bottle in stickers.
The best stickers are found at local shops, as they’re typically designed by local artists.
Postcards
The best backpacking souvenirs are mailed away
If you truly can’t fit ANYTHING into your backpack, postcards are the way to go. Buy a postcard and a stamp, write a little note, and send it home – sort of like a journal-on-the-go.
I met someone travelling who would ask the friends they met in that specific place to each write a memory or anecdote on the postcard and then would post it home. I think this is one of the best souvenirs you could create.
You can find a postcard quite literally anywhere – tourist shop, grocery store, museums, locally owned businesses. I try to buy some that are designed by local artists.
Clothing (to wear)
Because saying “thanks I got it in *insert country*” never gets old
I typically leave a little bit of clothing space in my backpack to find a few cute pieces on the road. It’s the perfect way to add some freshness to my travel wardrobe while also being reminded of the trip when I wear it back home. Bonus points for a tourist t-shirt to wear on the plane home (as pictured here).
For any tourist shirts, local markets usually have the best. For anything else, I usually head to a local mall or a thrift shop.
Food
Feeling snacky?
This is perfect, especially if you have a long journey home (never too early to open them)! There’s nothing I love more than bringing home local snacks for my friends and family to try.
Some favourites from countries include Vegemite and Tim Tams from Australia, Ritter Sport, paprika chips, and Haribo candies from Germany, Stroopwafels from The Netherlands, Helwa tat-Tork from Malta.
Very important to shop at a local grocery store to get these items, and NOT a tourist shop (unless you want to pay 4x the price).
Croc Charms
These are surprisingly easy to come by
This one might be a little more niche but I LOVE my crocs and decorating them with jibbitz (charms).
When I was in Australia, there were tons of stalls at local markets selling them, and it inspired me to start finding them wherever I travel to.
I sometimes stray away from this list – a Christmas ornament here-and-there, mugs from European Christmas Markets (my biggest souvenir haul), cute tote bags (you can never have too many). Overall, this guide has helped me travel light while still bringing a piece of my travels home with me.
What are your favourite backpacking souvenirs to collect?
Jules
