Updated 2026
Quick Answer
Even if you're the most minimalist packer, you'll want to buy something during your RTW trip. The trick isn't avoiding purchases - it's strategizing them. Plan for shopping stops, know your shipping options, and time your buying accordingly.
When to Buy Something
Buying stuff while traveling requires strategy. You can't just pick up whatever interests you; you'll end up with extra bags you don't need. Instead, plan ahead for destinations known for shopping and specific items you want.
Luckily, you can plan ahead. If you know a city is good for shopping or offers something specific someone would love, plan your route around it. Look into shipping options - cost, timing, and logistics. Budget extra funds specifically for souvenirs and shipping. Even if you pay shipping costs, you'll save money compared to buying equivalent items at home.
If family or friends are visiting during your trip, use that opportunity. Have them carry bags back with them (though checked baggage fees are increasingly expensive). Wait until the end of your trip to stock up. When traveling is nearly complete, you won't regret carrying one extra bag.
How to Ship Items Home
Every country has different postal systems, but shipping is rarely difficult. You don't need to do this for a few t-shirts, but once you've accumulated several items, packaging a box or two makes sense.
Head to the post office. Find someone who speaks English (easier than you'd think, even in less-touristy places). Ask about options - you likely won't be home soon, so slowest-is-cheapest works fine. Shipping by sea is incredibly affordable. Who cares if it arrives after you? You weren't using it anyway, and unboxing it later feels like Christmas.
Post offices usually provide boxes and packing materials. Cities famous for shopping (Hoi An in Vietnam with its tailors, or Bangkok markets) understand this process completely - they do it constantly.
Consider timing. Ship from bigger international cities (Bangkok, Delhi, Buenos Aires) rather than small towns for better rates and reliability. Always explore your options.
The bottom line: You traveled a long time. Have something physical to remember it by beyond photos. Get a shipping strategy so you can bring home what matters to you.
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Photo credits: Flickr users
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship souvenirs home?
Costs vary by country, weight, and method. Sea mail is cheapest (often $20-60 for a small box) but takes months. Air mail costs more but arrives faster. Get quotes from local post offices.
What's the best time to ship packages?
Ship before you're running low on time. Unexpected delays happen. Shipping mid-trip gives buffer time if something goes wrong.
Should I wrap items before mailing?
Yes. Use newspaper and bubble wrap. Postal workers aren't gentle. Protect fragile items well.
Is it worth shipping things home?
If you found special, hard-to-replace items or want memories beyond photos, yes. Don't ship cheap souvenirs you could replace easily.
Can I use global shipping services like DHL?
Yes, if you need speed and reliability. Expect to pay significantly more than postal services.
What items shouldn't I ship?
Avoid liquids, fragile artwork, valuable items. Check restrictions on both origin and destination countries.
How long does sea shipping typically take?
4-8 weeks typically, but can be longer. Plan accordingly.
What if my package doesn't arrive?
This is the main risk of slow shipping from developing countries. Get tracking numbers. International claims are complex. Low-value items make this less critical.