We all know the feeling—returning from a trip with sand in our shoes, a camera roll full of sunsets, and a suitcase that mysteriously won’t zip.
According to new insights from leading online travel agent Opodo, we’re bringing home far more than just stamps in our passports.
From fridge magnets and local crafts to hotel toiletries and even tattoos, travellers are collecting memories in every form imaginable. Opodo’s global poll of 9,000 holidaymakers (including 2,000 from the UK) reveals just how creative we get when it comes to preserving our adventures.
Capturing the Moment
For many Brits, the go-to method for remembering a trip is through photos or travel journals. Whether it’s a perfectly framed shot of Santorini or scribbled notes from a street café in Lisbon, these self-made souvenirs are top of the list.
But tangible keepsakes still hold strong appeal. Fridge magnets, handmade jewellery, and local crafts remain classic choices, while edible mementos—think olive oil from Tuscany or sweets from Tokyo—are also popular. Some travellers even scoop up sand from the beach or bottle local scents to bring the destination home with them.
And then there’s the bold few who take it a step further: getting inked abroad to mark the moment permanently.
The Souvenir Seekers
Some travellers are committed collectors, never returning home empty-handed. Younger generations, especially those in their twenties, are leading the charge—often starting new collections inspired by something they discovered on the road. From miniature figurines to regional textiles, these keepsakes become part of a personal archive of wanderlust.
Interestingly, Londoners are among the most enthusiastic souvenir hunters in the UK, with a strong preference for physical items, edible treats, and even the occasional tattoo.
Sharing the Story
Once back home, the storytelling begins. Most Brits love sharing their travel memories with family, while others turn to friends or partners. A growing number, especially Millennials, take their souvenirs online—posting photos, tagging locations, and turning their travels into digital diaries.
In Northern Ireland and London, social media sharing is particularly popular, while travellers from Wales and the North West tend to keep their memories more private.
Impulse & Influence
Souvenir shopping isn’t always planned. In fact, many purchases are made on a whim—spotted in a market stall or stumbled upon in a boutique. Gen X in the UK is surprisingly the most impulsive group, outpacing even Gen Z when it comes to spontaneous buys.
And yes, social media plays a role. Younger travellers are especially influenced by what they see online, from trending travel products to viral destination guides. British men are more likely than women to be swayed by digital inspiration, and regional differences show that Northern Irish and London travellers are the most likely to follow online trends.
Why We Collect
Ultimately, it all comes down to connection. Most travellers say they collect souvenirs to remember the places they’ve been and the experiences they’ve had. For some, it’s about symbolic value—owning a piece of the culture. For others, it’s about building a personal collection that tells the story of their journey.
Whether it’s a magnet, a meal, or a memory etched in ink, our holiday hauls are more than just objects—they’re pieces of the world we’ve explored.