Whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure, you can take in the sights and capture the memories of the places you visit. Souvenir shopping is a great way to retain the adventure, but these knick-knacks may end up collecting dust on your shelves.

As you wander the gift shops, don’t settle for something you won’t ever use again. Look out for these practical souvenirs when you’re travelling to bring home for your friends and family.

Artisanal Soap

You can use artisanal soap from local craft shops months after your trip. They come in unique scents and designs that remind you of the places you visit. If you’re visiting the local districts in small towns, support their business by purchasing a fragrant souvenir that won’t take up space in your luggage.

Handmade Jewelry

If you’re looking for souvenirs to wear, browse the local shops for handmade jewelry. These one-of-a-kind pieces are heartwarming gifts crafted by the artists from your travels. Whether it’s for your partner, a family member, or yourself, commemorate the experience by getting a beautiful necklace or charm bracelet from the city you visit.

Toys and Stuffed Animals

For your little ones, a toy or stuffed animal from the distinguishable locations you’re visiting is a perfect gift to bring home. Once they unwrap their present, they’ll play with these gadgets and plushies for a long time.

If your travels lead you to Florida, find souvenirs from Disney gift shops that would be perfect for your kids at home. Pack some exclusive toys from their favorite movie, and surprise them when you return home!

Local Cookbooks

Local cookbooks are some of the best practical souvenirs you can bring home from your travels so you can cook the local dishes you love. From the Eastern eateries to the restaurants in the South, you can bring home food from all across the city or nation! Bring home the local cuisine by buying a cookbook you can use for yourself or give to a loved one.

Stationery and Notebooks

Stationery and notebooks are great souvenirs that you can use at home or at work. Destination towns often design these notebooks with landmarks or icons that represent their region. For example, you might use a work notebook with the beautiful landscapes of Oregon, California, or the sparkling city lights of New York.

On your travels, fill your luggage with functional keepsakes. Bring home a memento from beautiful destinations that you and your loved ones will cherish.