Embarking on a journey typically involves the return with a memento—a physical keepsake to symbolize the experience. Souvenirs, ranging from the delightful to the dreadful, have a way of finding their place in our luggage. From kitschy keychains to artisanal handicrafts, these items serve as tangible memories of our travels. Notably, those who inhabit popular tourist destinations often have much to say about the ‘best’ and ‘worst’ souvenirs their locale has to offer.

In Paris, for instance, many locals consider miniature Eiffel Towers as an overdone and unoriginal choice—it’s possibly the worst souvenir one could pick up. While quintessentially Parisian, it’s neither unique nor particularly useful. On the contrary, gourmet items like mustards from Maille or exquisite chocolates from artisan chocolatiers are highly recommended as they offer a taste of French culinary excellence.

Crossing continents to Japan, visitors are often tempted by an array of quirky gadgets and trinkets that may have limited use back home—think sushi-shaped USB drives—which locals classify as amusing but impractical. Alternatively, beautifully crafted Japanese ceramics or traditional Furoshiki wrapping cloths receive praise for their practicality and embodiment of Japanese aesthetics.

Closer to home, perhaps in New York City, I ♥ NY t-shirts have become somewhat clichéd and relegated to the ‘worst’ category amongst New Yorkers. Conversely, locally made products such as small-batch hot sauces from Brooklyn or handcrafted jewelry pieces found at markets around the city uphold uniqueness and local flair.

In Egypt, vendors near historical sites sell scores of papyrus scrolls that are often mass-produced and lack authenticity—landing them in the ‘worst’ category suggested by locals. However, hand-blown glass perfume bottles or locally-sourced alabaster pieces make for highly valued souvenirs that carry true Egyptian artisanship.

Moreover, in Australia, keychains featuring kangaroos and koalas or boomerangs too often end up as disappointing dust-gatherers, according to some Australians. Art lovers would prefer that visitors seek out Aboriginal artwork or opals which hold deeper cultural connotations and stories worth sharing on return.

Through these examples curated by locals themselves, it’s clear that souvenir shopping is no mere transaction—it’s an art that requires thoughtfulness and an appreciation for the locale’s culture. The best souvenirs are those that resonate with personal experience while carrying a fragment of authentic local charm; whereas the regrettable ones tend to be hastily-chosen trinkets devoid of significance or connection to place. Thus when traveling next time consider skipping past the typical tourist traps and instead seek souvenirs that truly capture the essence of your adventures—and will be appreciated long after your journey has ended.