Bringing home souvenirs is a time-honored travel tradition — a way to capture memories, share experiences with loved ones, and hold onto the essence of a place long after your journey ends. However, many typical travel souvenirs come wrapped in plastic, mass-produced overseas, and made from materials that aren’t exactly kind to the environment.
Thankfully, there’s a better way. Eco-friendly souvenirs not only reduce your environmental impact but also support local artisans and communities, giving your keepsakes more meaning and lasting value. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for family and friends, here’s how to choose sustainably while still celebrating your travel experiences.
Support Local Artisans and Makers
One of the most impactful choices you can make is to buy directly from local craftspeople. Handmade pottery, textiles, jewelry, or art are not only beautiful reminders of your trip but also ensure your money supports the community you’ve visited.
Seek out artisans at local markets, co-ops, or artist collectives rather than tourist-heavy shops filled with mass-produced goods. Websites like Etsy often highlight local creators from specific regions, even if you want to purchase something after you return home.
Opt for Sustainable Materials
When browsing souvenirs, look for items made from renewable, recycled, or upcycled materials. Bamboo, organic cotton, recycled glass, reclaimed wood, and sustainably sourced paper are all great choices.
Avoid products made from endangered materials such as coral, certain hardwoods, or animal parts like ivory and tortoiseshell. Not only are these harmful to ecosystems, but they are also often illegal to bring through customs.
The World Wildlife Fund provides helpful guidance on what to avoid when buying souvenirs abroad.
Choose Consumable Gifts
Edible souvenirs like local honey, fair-trade chocolate, herbal teas, spices, or olive oil make excellent eco-friendly gifts. They are useful, enjoyed to the last bite, and don’t create long-term waste.
For best results, shop at farmers’ markets or local food producers who focus on sustainable practices. Be mindful of import restrictions, especially when traveling internationally, as some food products may not be allowed through customs.
Skip Over-Packaged Tourist Trinkets
Tourist gift shops are often packed with cheaply made items wrapped in layers of plastic and packaging. Instead, go for minimalist packaging or bring your own reusable bag to carry your finds. Look for stores that prioritize sustainable practices and actively minimize waste.
If you’re unsure, ask vendors about their packaging materials — many will be happy to accommodate eco-conscious shoppers.
Consider Digital or Experience-Based Gifts
Not every souvenir has to be physical. Digital gifts, like photography books from your travels or subscriptions to local cultural publications, offer a meaningful alternative with zero waste.
You might also give the gift of an experience — such as booking a local cooking class or cultural tour for a loved one if you’re traveling together. These memories far outlast a trinket and have a much smaller environmental footprint.
Verify Ethical Certifications
When buying souvenirs that claim to be sustainable, look for reputable certifications. Labels like Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, or those endorsed by organizations like Ethical Traveler can provide assurance that your purchase aligns with fair labor and environmental standards.
