Souvenir collecting can be a lot of fun when you travel. Whether they're free, cheap, or pricey, the souvenirs you gather and collections you create become symbols of special places you visited and experiences you had. For example, shopping for souvenirs in Mexico enables you to buy some things you can't find elsewhere and other things, such as silver, that cost much less than at home.
Those who want to create a travel scrapbook ought to train their eye to view a variety of items as potential souvenirs.
Some travelers actually budget a certain amount for souvenirs on their trip. You needn't be compulsive about collecting them, though. And you can decide after you get home and empty your pockets, wallet, and suitcase whether the souvenirs you've collected merit safekeeping.
Before you leave home, acquaint yourself with the following list of souvenirs that can inexpensively tell a tale about your trip.
The great thing about collecting paper souvenirs is that they're light. No matter how stuffed your suitcase is, there's always room for flat paper goods. To protect them from getting wet or curling up, consider adding a plastic envelope when you pack and conscientiously slipping each acquisition inside it.
Are you handy and love DIY projects? Then don't let your creativity go to waste. Whether you draw, write or photograph, use your talents to record your trip and then combine your work in an artful way.
Understand that there are pros and cons to buying at a souvenir stand. On the one hand, they may be expensive and items you see are ones that you may encounter elsewhere for less money. On the other hand, if you know you will not pass that way again, and you see something you crave, this may be your only opportunity to acquire it. In some countries, it is expected that you will haggle over the price.
If you have a creative imagination, just about anything can be converted to a souvenir. And once it's in your possession and you have time at home, turn your travel treasures into an assemblage that occupies a place of honor in your home.
Why not devote part of your vacation to shopping for souvenirs that are beautiful, memorable, and convey a sense of place?
On a trip to a flea market, antiques district, crafts fair, or local commercial area, you have an ideal opportunity to find unique and exotic artifacts to decorate your new place.
If you're traveling outside the USA, be sure to check customs regulations before you go. Some items, such as Cuban cigars, ivory, and tortoiseshell, cannot be imported to the United States, and there's a limit on the value of items you can bring home without paying import duty.
Do save receipts on purchases over $25. When they add up, you can turn them in to receive a refund of VAT taxes charged in Canada and in Europe.
Whether your souvenirs are big or small, inexpensive or costly, treasure them as an emblem of your wonderful vacation together.