Too scary！These travel souvenirs might bring bad luck

The beautiful black sand of Hawaii is so alluring that many people secretly take some home, but doing so is considered a taboo that brings misfortune locally. (Image / YouTube)

Creepy Japanese dolls are said to develop their own souls over time. It’s best to avoid buying those with unknown origins. (Image / Wikipedia)

Many people take Thai amulets as protective charms, but locals warn that even amulets come in different types and shouldn’t be worn casually. (Image / Wikipedia)

It’s common to bring back local specialties as souvenirs when traveling, but be cautious — there are several types of souvenirs that are internationally considered inappropriate to take home, such as Hawaiian sand or Scottish stones. Allegedly, bringing these items by mistake can even invite bad luck.

1. Hawaiian Sand and Stones

There’s a legend in Hawaii that for thousands of years it was an independent and mysterious ancient kingdom. When white settlers invaded the land, the Hawaiian fire goddess Pele cursed the intruders — anyone who took the land of Hawaii would suffer misfortune. Warning signs from the Hawaii Tourism Authority also state: “Do not take sand or stones from the islands.” Some tourists have reported that after unknowingly bringing home a bottle of beach sand as a souvenir, they were involved in car accidents. The Hawaii Tourism Authority receives packages of returned stones from tourists every day.

2. Scottish Stones

Similar to Hawaiian stones, another type of stone you shouldn’t take home is from Scotland. It’s said that in the past, when Scotland was an independent country, it was invaded by England and Scandinavia. Before going to battle, Scottish warriors left curses stating that those who took Scottish land would be doomed to misfortune.

3. Tibetan Bone Artifacts and Mani Stones

On the streets and alleys of Tibet, there are many souvenirs for sale, including various bone artifacts — though it's hard for most people to determine what animal or even human bones they actually are. While ordinary cow bone items may be fine, some may originate from human bones once used by Tibetan shamans or nobles, which people might unknowingly purchase. These bone crafts are believed to be quite spiritual and prone to attracting misfortune. Likewise, don’t take home stones from Mani piles — they are used by Tibetans to make wishes. Locals believe taking a Mani stone is like taking someone else’s wish, causing their hopes to be dashed. Plus, taking something that isn’t yours is considered inauspicious.

4. Japanese Dolls

Legend has it that Japanese dolls gradually develop their own souls over time. In the past, some were even made using real human hair. Since Japan also has certain taboos about dolls — for example, unwanted dolls cannot be discarded casually but must be enshrined at specific shrines — doll trading is rare in Japan’s second-hand markets, although it’s still fairly common at flea markets abroad. These are also souvenirs you should try not to take home.

5. Turkish Nazar Boncuk (Evil Eye Beads)

In Turkish tourist areas, it’s common to see shops selling blue evil eye beads, crafted into bracelets, necklaces, and pendants, all with distinct local character. But these shouldn’t be bought carelessly. Known as the “Nazar” or “evil eye,” it’s believed that wearing one can absorb negative energy and bring peace to the wearer. However, the evil eye has a “capacity.” Once it absorbs too much negativity, it needs to be replaced, and the old one must be passed on to someone else to get rid of the bad energy.

6. Thai Amulets

Thai amulets are unique Buddhist accessories in Thailand. Historically, during frequent wars between Myanmar and Thailand, many amulets were found among the ruins of destroyed temples. Thais believe amulets serve as protective charms that can safeguard individuals or strengthen faith. However, Thai amulets are divided into “yang” (positive) and “yin” (negative) types — some require worship, others don’t — and there are quite a few rules and taboos. So, if you’re not well-versed in religion or amulets, it’s safer to keep your distance.