If you are planning to visit Australia, you might also wonder what unique souvenirs you could bring back home. Whether as a keepsake for yourself or as gifts for your love ones. Choosing the right travel gift can be a way to preserve memories and share the spirit of Australia with friends and family. So, in this article, we’ll help you to discover best unique travel gifts from Australia, and of course more importantly is where to find them.
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Aboriginal Art and Crafts: A Cultural Treasure
Australia’s Indigenous culture is one of the oldest continuous cultures in the world, with art and storytelling that span over 60,000 years. Aboriginal art and crafts are not only visually stunning but also rich in symbolism, representing traditions, beliefs, and stories passed down through generations.
According to a report published by the Australia Council for the Arts, Aboriginal art contributes significantly to the country’s economy, driving cultural tourism and providing employment to Indigenous communities
Popular Aboriginal Art Gifts
- Didgeridoos: This ancient wind instrument, often made from eucalyptus wood, is a must-have gift for anyone interested in Australian Indigenous music and culture.
- Boomerangs: Traditionally used as hunting tools, boomerangs now serve as beautiful decorative pieces, often hand-painted with Indigenous designs. Traditional Aboriginal hunting boomerangs were often heavier and meant for long-range accuracy. By the way, do you know that some boomerangs are not design to return?
- Hand-painted items: Vibrant artworks featuring “dot painting” techniques that depict dreamtime stories and symbols of the natural world. You can find them in the form of canvas artworks and pottery.
Where to Find Authentic Aboriginal Art
To make sure that what we buy is the autentic product of Aboriginal art, it is very important to purchase from recognized galleries or stores that support Indigenous artists. According to a report by the Australia Council for the Arts, nearly 80% of all Aboriginal art in the market is fake or mass-produced, which deprives the artists of their deserved recognition and income.
Recommended Places:
- Tjanpi Desert Weavers (Online Store): A not-for-profit organization offering beautiful handmade baskets and sculptures.
- Aboriginal Art Galleries in Alice Springs: Such as Yubu Napa Art Gallery, known for its commitment to authentic pieces directly sourced from local artists.
Edible Gifts: Flavors of Australia
Edible gifts are always a hit because they offer a taste of the local flavors that you can’t find anywhere else. Australia has a variety of culinary delights that make for perfect souvenirs.
Must-Try Edible Gifts
- Tim Tams: A beloved chocolate biscuit that Australians swear by. Did you know that over 45 million packets of Tim Tams are sold each year globally, which equals nearly two packs for every person in Australia? For chocolate lover, you must definitely not miss this.
- Vegemite: Love it or hate it, this savory spread is a quintessential Australian experience. Its rich, umami flavor is best enjoyed with buttered toast.
- Macadamia Nuts: Native to Australia, these nuts are not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats and antioxidants.
Where to Find the Best Edible Gifts
The best way to ensure you’re getting the freshest and most authentic products is to shop at local supermarkets or specialty stores.
Suggested Locations:
- Haigh’s Chocolates (Sydney and Melbourne): Famous for their quality chocolates, including Tim Tams.
- Nosh Macadamia (Byron Bay): A farm store offering premium, locally-sourced macadamia nuts and macadamia-based treats.
Eco-Friendly Travel Gifts: Sustainable Choices
In an age where sustainability matters more than ever, choosing eco-friendly gifts is a great way to show your commitment to the planet. Australia leads the way in innovative, environmentally-friendly products that make thoughtful gifts.
A report by the Australian Bureau of Statistics noted that over 60% of Australians are actively taking steps to reduce their environmental impact, making these gifts not only thoughtful but also relevant to current trends.
Top Eco-Friendly Gifts
- Beeswax Wraps: A reusable and sustainable alternative to plastic wraps, perfect for preserving food while reducing waste.
- Australian Skincare Products: Brands like Sukin and Aesop are known for their organic, cruelty-free skincare items that are kind to both your skin and the environment.
- Reusable Water Bottles: Made from recycled materials, these are perfect for the eco-conscious traveler.
Where to Shop for Eco-Friendly Gifts
Look for stores that specialize in sustainable products to ensure you are supporting ethical brands.
Suggested Stores:
- Biome (Online Store): Australia’s leading eco-friendly store, offering a wide range of sustainable products.
- Flora & Fauna (Sydney): A vegan and eco-conscious store providing everything from skincare to zero-waste products.
Fashion and Accessories: Stylish Souvenirs
Australian fashion is renowned for its blend of practicality, comfort, and style. From cozy woolen garments to elegant jewelry, there are plenty of options to bring a touch of Australian flair back home.
Iconic Australian Fashion Items
- Akubra Hats: Known for their durability and classic style, Akubra hats have been a staple in Australian fashion for over a century.
- Merino Wool Products: Australia is the world’s largest producer of Merino wool, celebrated for its softness, warmth, and breathability.
- Opal Jewelry: Beside of its uniqueness, oval definitely is valuable keepsake. Over 90℅ of opal all over the world are produced by Australia. So, why miss the opportunity to get it directly from its origin?
Best Places to Buy Fashion and Accessories
High-quality Australian fashion items can be found in both specialty shops and well-known department stores.
Recommended Locations:
- RM Williams (Nationwide): Famous for its durable leather boots and other outback-inspired clothing.
- Coober Pedy Opal Shops: Known as the “opal capital of the world,” this town in South Australia offers a wide selection of opal jewelry.
Quirky and Offbeat Gifts: Unusual Finds
If you’re looking for something truly different, Australia’s markets and artisan shops have plenty of quirky options that are sure to make an impression.
Unique Gift Ideas
- Kangaroo Leather Wallets: Lighter and stronger than traditional leather, these wallets make for a practical yet distinctive gift.
- Australian Bush Spices: Spices like wattleseed and lemon myrtle are often used in local cuisine and add a unique flavor to any dish.
Where to Discover Unique Finds
Exploring local markets is the best way to stumble upon offbeat items that you won’t find anywhere else.
Best Markets to Visit:
- The Rocks Market (Sydney): Perfect for handmade crafts, local art, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
- Queen Victoria Market (Melbourne): A bustling hub with stalls full of quirky items, artisan foods, and souvenirs.
Choosing a unique travel gift from Australia itself is also a kind of adventure while traveling. It is not only about finding souvenir, but also capturing the essence of the land, its people and its traditions. Through these various kinds of unique gifts; from the cultural art kind of souvenir, the edible and yummy gift, fashion items keepsake, eco-friendly gifts, to practial but distictive souvenir, your journey would absolutely become more memorable. So, which kind of gifts are you most into?
