5 Kinds of “Souvenirs That Need a Second Thought” – Bring Home Travel Memories Safely!

▲ Travel Souvenirs (Illustration / photo by Macy Anonuevo / Screenshot from El Nido Resorts Environment Department)

Tourism Center / Comprehensive Report

During your travels, many travelers hope to buy some souvenirs to bring home delicious treats, useful items, and beautiful memories. However, with increasing emphasis on energy conservation, carbon reduction, and environmental protection, some airlines and shipping companies are taking a “sustainable tourism” approach, educating both staff and passengers to avoid purchasing wildlife-related products. Besides the commonly known ivory and rhino horns, there are actually 5 types of items that you should “think carefully about” before buying, as they may unknowingly put you in legal trouble.

Recently,National Geographicpublished an article stating that many tourism operators are aligning with environmental protection and eco-friendly trends, particularly opposing the smuggling of wildlife. For example, JetBlue airs educational videos on this issue on their flights; while Royal Caribbean and Carnival, two major cruise lines, have also committed to training their employees to join passengers in combating unscrupulous vendors selling wildlife products.

Many people know that purchasing items like rhino horns, ivory, and tiger skins is illegal. In fact, there are other “souvenirs” sourced inhumanely and that may be illegal—requiring careful consideration. The article suggests asking yourself three questions before buying: “What is it made of? Where is it from? Do I need a permit to bring it home (across borders)?”

1. Sea Turtle Products:Hair accessories, jewelry, musical instruments, leather goods, turtle soup, or turtle eggs—any product labeled as containing “turtle shell” could come from sea turtles that are endangered. Out of the world’s seven species of sea turtles, at least six are currently endangered, so it’s best to avoid purchasing any turtle-related souvenirs.

2. Snake Wine:Snake wine is especially common in Southeast Asian countries. The bottles contain whole snakes soaked in alcohol, rumored to have healing properties; however, most of these claims are not true and likely stem from curiosity or misinformation. There may even be risks of toxicity or parasites. Moreover, the method of making such wine is often extremely cruel and inhumane, potentially involving the live drowning of snakes.

3. Bird Feathers:Some feathers are brightly colored, lightweight, and easy to carry, and are made into souvenirs. But in some countries (such as the United States), bird feathers are on the list of prohibited items for import. Live birds, specimens, and nests are also restricted items, and bringing them into many countries can be illegal.

4. Coral and Shells:Resort areas near the sea often sell dried shells and coral. Although they are easy to purchase, taking them out of or back into your own country might not be so simple. Due to past overharvesting of coral by unethical traders, leading to near-extinction, many countries do not allow travelers to take it out of the country.

5. Walrus Ivory:Many people know that ivory is banned in many countries, but may not realize that “walrus” ivory can also be illegal. Walrus ivory is often carved into artworks. If made by local Alaskans, it is legal; but if the source is uncertain, it may be classified as a prohibited item in the United States. Therefore, it’s very important to ask the seller for proof of origin.