One of my favourite parts of travelling is seeking out special treasures to bring back home to remind me of my adventures. Whether I’m at home cooking in the kitchen, working at my desk or getting ready for the day, those little momentos bring me so much joy during those everyday moments. I’m not talking about silly chachkas that probably weren’t even made in the country you purchased them from, like a magnet or a shot glass. Or a miniature replica of a landmark. (Though I do love postcards, more on that below). These are items that you will actually use, are made locally and seamlessly fit into your home. And because I try to travel carry-on only, I’m very limited to what I can pack and so I have discovered what the best items are to easily tuck into a small suitcase. Space is limited, so the items better count.
Dishtowels
Textiles are one of my favourite things to bring home, especially in dishtowel form because they’re easy to “display” and are actually useful. Many lifestyle boutiques and shops will sell dishtowels, and often they are made or printed locally. I always go for designs that will seamlessly fit into my kitchen. France is a no-brainer for linen!
Candles
We all know that scent and memory are so closely linked and this is why I always try to bring home a candle wherever I go. When I light it back home, it instantly brings me back to my travels. Again, locally-made candles are easy to come by.
Matchboxes
To go with the above candles of course. These are often even free if you can find them at a bar, hotel or restaurant. I love displaying them alongside a candle on my coffee table. They make for an excellent conversation starter too!
Mini Lotions, Balms, & Perfumes
Similar to candles, the scent of toiletry items can bring me back to a moment in time from a trip. Try to buy these early in your travels and use them while there – this will further link the scent to the place you’re visiting, making the memory even more intense back home. Just be sure they are under 100 ml if you’re doing carry-on only.
Notebooks
You can never have too many notebooks, especially if they are covered in a beautiful print or pattern. I like to purchase one at the beginning of my trip and keep it with me in my bag to jot down ideas (I’m always inspired while travelling) or to write down memories and favourite places I visited.
Art Prints
I love to seek out one or two small art prints when I travel and frame them when I get home. From small boutiques, to museums, to artisan markets, prints are easy to come by. Just be sure they have a cardboard backing so they don’t get damaged.
Postcards
I like to use these as mini pieces of art to put up on my pinboard, stick on the fridge or even frame. I have quite a stack at home that I keep in a drawer beside my desk. I will rotate them out and I love looking up at them whenever I’m working.
Jewellery
Nothing is easier to pack than a pair of earrings, a necklace or a bracelet. And nothing beats telling someone you “got this in Paris” when someone asks you 😉
Small Ceramics
I always try to find a small ceramic piece to bring home with me that I can display on a shelf, on a nightstand or on my desk. A trinket tray, a mug or a small bud vase are perfect. Just be sure to wrap it well in your suitcase! No need for bubble wrap, just use your clothes.
