A number of social media users have shared their thoughts on how many souvenirs tourists should buy for friends and family when they go on holiday.
Travellers typically cannot take all of their loved ones with them on a trip, and bringing back something interesting or authentic can help to show how thoughtful tourists can be whilst away.
However, posting to the subreddit r/solotravel, Reddit user @cattydaddy08 voices his concerns that he may not be able to bring gifts home for everyone.
He said: “[I am] heading to Japan soon and thinking about all the souvenirs I need to get for family (parents, niece, nephews etc). It’s a bit overwhelming when we’re going to be stressed as it is.
“What’s the etiquette here? Do I just keep an eye out for small things as I travel? Do I even have to bring everyone back something?”
Responding to the post, a number of other members of the group reassured that tourist that they should never feel obliged to buy souvenirs for everybody they know.
Instead, they suggested that holidaymakers thinking about getting one or two small gifts for others should focus on significant members of the family or friends.
They also suggested that tourists should think about who would appreciate small and low-cost items that demonstrate that they are thinking of their loved ones.
Nevertheless, a number of Reddit users responding to the question noted that they no longer bring souvenirs for others.
They added: “I don’t bring anyone else stuff because I feel like if it was myself I’d want the souvenir because I personally went there, not because someone I know has been there.”
Another noted: “I stopped bringing stuff for everyone. Why? Just unnecessary luggage, weight and materialism, and it’s not like the people really care.”
Another Reddit user suggested that tourists can still bring loved ones a little something back without costing a significant amount of money by visiting a local grocery store or supermarket.
They explained: “I usually go to a grocery store and bring back snacks and sweets if I want to bring back souvenirs, but I don’t feel obligated.”
An additional user added: “This is what I bring too, and coffee.”
