What Travel Experts Would Never Buy While Traveling

Visiting famous attractions and trying new restaurants are undoubtedly the highlights of most trips. But many travelers also enjoy the experience of shopping in a new destination.

However, not all travel purchases are created equal. And there are some items you better take with you on your vacation.

We asked travel experts to share the things they would never buy on a trip, from items they always make sure to pack to some souvenirs that aren’t worth bringing back at home. Read on for their answers.

“I would never buy shoes while traveling. They tend to take up way too much space in your luggage, and if you’re an over-packer, like me, you won’t have room for them. However, you can always pack a pair of shoes you’re comfortable leaving at your destination in exchange for a new pair. So it’s a win-win!” ― Ravi Rothtravel expert and host ofThe Gaycation Travel Fair”

“I would never buy anything that could break, like glass wine bottles, olive oil, sunscreen in a bottle. You don’t want to risk ruining your clothes in your luggage for a bottle of red wine.-Roth

“One thing you should never buy while traveling are headphones. A good pair of headphones can make a long trip go by, but if you’re like me and tend to forget about them, they’re incredibly out of this world. prices both at airports and tourist shops.― Gaby Beckfordtravel site founder Light packs

“Don’t bother bringing home jams, meats, cheeses or other perishables. It’s not worth the likely hassle at customs. I bring home some foreign candy for my kids and have wine shipped if there’s one I really like. ― Paul Jacobs, Managing Director and Vice President of Kayaking North America

“I to like functional souvenirs (spices, accessories, notepads, clothing, etc.), but I would never attempt to bring back dirt, sand, shells, fresh produce, or meat of any kind. Sometimes it’s okay, sometimes it’s the biggest problem ever. If I want to take a particular food home, I will buy it at the airport to make sure it is approved by airport security. -Beckford

“If you want to avoid extra fees and charges, try to avoid buying heavy items that could add to the weight of your suitcase. If you’re checking baggage, be sure to keep weight limits in mind. your airline and the weight of your checked baggage before takeoff.― Casey Brogan, Consumer Travel Expert at Tripadvisor

“It may sound strange, but deodorant and lotions. You can use different shampoos and soaps wherever you are, but switching brands of deodorant or lotion can cause all kinds of irritation. Bring the brands you use home. -Jacobs

“I try to take home fewer things than I used to, and I try to avoid things you can find anywhere, like generic tchotchkes or souvenirs. If I want to take something home home, I look for items that have a real sense of place, which often means food: I’ve packed everything from olive oil to a half Comte wheel in my bags. check the guidelines for clearing these types of items through customs.― Laura Ratliff, Senior Editorial Director at TripSavvy

“Of course, avoid packing liquids that don’t meet your airline’s guidelines, otherwise you may have to throw away expensive products. If you choose to buy toiletries at your destination, don’t buy the large bottles you would buy at home. Instead, choose small or travel-sized items that you can throw away at the end of your trip and avoid waste. -Brogan

“I strongly advise against buying full-size toiletries when I travel. In most cases, you won’t finish the bottle and have to throw it away. Instead, buy travel toiletries before you leave for your trip. You can also buy oversized toiletries at home as well as TSA-approved 3.4 oz travel bottles. Fill the travel bottles with what you need and pack them for your trip. trip. Then you’ll have the full-size bottle waiting for you when you get home. ― Phil Dengler, co-founder of The vacationer

“While it can be tempting to buy large valuables like jewelry, it may be best to avoid the risk of loss or theft. Consider having your valuables shipped home if you can. .-Brogan

“Although some souvenirs may seem unique at the time, you can probably find them cheaper elsewhere. Also, heavy souvenirs may not only be too expensive, but also a burden to carry. You may also find it difficult to carry heavy memorabilia at home if you already have limited luggage space. As for Disney, I recommend that you purchase all Disney clothing and memorabilia before or after your trip. Unfortunately, Disney memorabilia is heavily marked in hotels and parks, so best to buy elsewhere – Dengler

“Forgetting your phone charger while traveling can be expensive. While airports sell chargers, prices are heavily inflated. If possible, buy your new charger from a local store after you arrive at your destination. Unfortunately, this can still be a Huge problem, and you can still end up paying a premium price. I recommend having a good packing list and always including essential electronics like your phone charger. – Dengler