Decorate with bills and coins – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

Anyone who’s been to a foreign country knows it’s inevitable — you come back with foreign coins and bills in your pockets. That leftover money can make a great souvenir.

Colorful bills can be framed for unique decor, and coins can be made into jewelery or refrigerator magnets.

Older kids and teenagers are especially fascinated by foreign money. Plus, unlike other souvenirs, money doesn’t take up much space in your suitcase, and you don’t have to spend extra to buy everyone t-shirts and knickknacks.

Shop local dollar stores – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

My favorite places to check out for souvenirs are equivalent to dollar stores, flea markets, and book shops.

When in Tokyo, for example, I stumbled upon a 100 yen store called “Daiso Harajuku,” and I found a trove of Japanese pottery, ornate chopsticks, and beautiful stationary papers.

In Paris, “Shakespeare and Company Bookstore” offers an array of books, new and used, and each book purchased is stamped with the logo of the store. Flea markets are great for scarves, wraps, and other wears, and deals can be made with the merchants. These types of souvenirs speak volumes to the recipients, and will not leave you broke.

Collect rocks and stones – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

There’s a scene in The Long, Long Trailer where Lucille Ball sentimentally refuses to get rid of the souvenir rocks she’s collected and hides them all in her trailer cabinets instead. Hilarity ensues.

While taking the biggest, heaviest rocks from every place you visit is hardly recommended, searching for small stones as souvenirs from favorite destinations is a great way to make wonderful memories as a family — and will cost you absolutely nothing.

Start a tradition now of selecting rocks together, and then researching and identifying them when you get home. Set aside a special shelf for your efforts, and you’ll soon build a treasured collection of memories that you’ll remember long after that bumper sticker has faded.

Wait ’til the end – Souvenir tip

by Gadling Staff on

A way to save money (and free your arms) is to wait until the end of your trip to purchase souvenirs to take home.

This gives you the chance to scope out prices, which can vary greatly in touristy areas. It can also give you a better sense of what’s available, so you don’t wind up buying all junk.

If you find something unique, you should snag it, but otherwise set an afternoon aside for souvenir shopping.

Leave empty space! – Packing tip

by Gadling Staff on

While utilizing packing space wisely is always a good tip, there’s another tip that travelers often overlook: rather than overfilling suitcases and carry-on luggage, leave some extra space.

Many times during travel, people buy souvenirs — from clothing to art. Leaving a little extra room can save the hassle of having to cram items into bags — or having to locate additional luggage for these items.