The top 5 Alaska Souvenirs

Alaska souvenirs should be made in Alaska. Look for these stickers because you’re smart.

If you’re taking a cruise to Alaska, you’re probably wondering what you’re going to bring home as a memento of your trip. Finding something authentically Alaskan may seem relatively easy but many souvenirs are actually “Made in China.” Last time I checked, China is not Alaska. This blog is all about the top 5 Alaska souvenirs so that you can buy a genuine Alaskan keepsake that you will treasure forever.

What about gifts for my family?

Look, I understand that you have kids and grandkids and friends that all expect you to bring them something from your trip. You’re probably planning on buying them t-shirts and refrigerator magnets and other such cheap trinkets. However, if you put a little effort into it, you can spend less money on something truly Alaskan. It will also make you appear more thoughtful, which could lead to you receiving better Christmas gifts from them. Smart!

Top Alaska Souvenirs – #1 – Clothing made by Alaskans

Everywhere you go, there are countless stupid t-shirts that say something dumb. You wear it a few times and then realize it’s cheap crap and then it sits at the bottom of your drawer until you donate it to Goodwill. Seriously, next time you’re at the thrift store take a look at how many shirts say “Florida” or “If you can read this put me back on my bar stool.” It’s out of control. If you shop in locally-owned Alaskan stores, you can find clothing made in Alaska. Support local business because you’re a good person.

Top Alaska Souvenirs – #2 – Food made by Alaskans

Alaska is known for its seafood. Believe it or not, some of that smoked salmon you see on shelves isn’t even from Alaska. Take your time to locate food products from Alaska. Visit a local Alaskan smoked salmon vendor. You can even wait until you’re home and shop online. Send your friends some authentic Alaskan king crab or halibut and you will have a friend for life. It will be delivered to their doorstep, so you don’t have to lug around a bunch of crap while on vacation. Very smart! You can also see if there are any local farmer’s markets while you’re in port. If so, you will find delicious bargains at every table.

Top Alaska Souvenirs – #3 – Indigenous Art

Alaska’s indigenous people create some incredible art. If you want something uniquely Alaskan, purchase a line art paddle or a baleen basket. Silver bracelets featuring Tlingit art are very popular and you will want to wear it all of the time. Buy a handmade drum. These authentic Alaskan souvenirs cost a little more, but it’s something that every guest to your home will ask you about when they see it. Then you can tell them the story of your trip to Alaska, and that’s why you buy souvenirs in the first place. Try doing that with a stupid refrigerator magnet.

Top Alaska Souvenirs – #4 – Locally made art

Lots of Alaskans make art. They carve ivory and bone. They make jewelry. They take photos and create beautiful paintings. They sculpt and write books. I recommend buying this book, which was written by a local Skagway author. Sure, you could buy a novelty key chain with a pooping moose on it, but is that something to be proud of? No. It’s gross. Shop local and buy local. Figure it out!

Top Alaska Souvenirs – #5 – Locally made medicinal products

There are a lot of plants with healing properties in Alaska. Some residents know how to use them to make bug balms, tinctures, and other medicinal products that can help you in countless ways. I get this locally made bug bite salve that immediately makes the pain and swelling go away. It’s made with Alaskan plants! That’s crazy to me. There are plants up here that actually keep mosquitoes away. You can buy stuff made from those plants instead of spraying yourself with deadly chemicals. Makes sense, right?

Hopefully, you’re getting the idea. If you’re not sure whether something is “Made in Alaska,” simply ask. Most Alaska souvenirs that are locally produced will have a sticker on them that says as much. We hope you enjoy your trip to Alaska and find a souvenir that will bring you much joy for the rest of your life.