What things should I buy on a trip to the USA?

ESTA på dansk

If you are a Danish citizen planning your first trip to the US, there are many souvenirs to buy and bring back home, which will definitely fascinate your friends and family back home.

One thing that’s sure about America is that shopping is a way of life. Everyone shops in either small boutiques in the city or big department stores. But there are products that are considered by all to be characteristic of American culture specifically.

Let’s take a look at the things you should buy on a trip to the USA to bring home to Denmark.

Blue Jeans and Denim Jackets

Popular jeans brands such as Levi’s, Lee, and Wrangler are significantly cheaper in America. Usually, they cost around 25% cheaper than their counterparts in Europe. Also, they are an ingrained part of American culture – opt for a classic pair of Levi’s 501 straight blue jeans if you want to gift them or try multiple pairs and styles if you are keeping them for yourself. Denim jackets are also a great addition to your wardrobe, especially the authentic Wrangler denim jacket.

Genuine Cowboy Boots

When it comes to American culture, there is no figure as omnipresent as the American cowboy – and for a good reason. If you are traveling to the Western United States, especially in the Rockies, cowboy boots should be the first thing you buy. Even if you don’t intend to wear them or gift them, they make for an excellent, genuine souvenir. Go for quality leather ones rather than tourist replicas.

A Bottle of Bourbon Whiskey

Bourbon whiskey is often sweeter than Scotch or Irish whiskey and is a popular drink in classic American hard-boiled noir movies. Detectives, femme fatales, and harsh types usually drink lots of it – but if you give it a try, you’ll surely appreciate its complexity and flavor. Popular, affordable brands include Jack Daniel’s and Jim Beam, but more prized ones are Maker’s Mark, Knob Creek, and Old Forester.

A Great Jazz Vinyl

If you are traveling to New York, Chicago, New Orleans, or Nashville, be sure to visit a record store and find a rarity that speaks of genuine Jazz music! There are so many forgotten gems around that you are sure to find a fantastic record.

Maple Syrup

A great North American product, maple syrup is great for breakfast and especially on pancakes. Canadian maple syrup is especially good (sorry, American friends).

Native Indian Hand Crafts

Traveling near Reserves on the big states in the Rockies? You’ll undoubtedly encounter traditional stores for souvenirs along the way. American Indians make these handicrafts. It’s an excellent way to support the locals and get something that is genuinely, authentically American.

A Baseball Hat

Nothing screams America quite like baseball – now, baseball hats have become commonplace and are sold everywhere in Europe, but there’s nothing better than getting an authentic MLB hat from a store in the US. I still treasure the Red Sox baseball cap I bought years back.

A Football Jersey

No, not association football – or soccer as they call it in North America – but American football jerseys are some of the most authentic, working-class-vibe items you can purchase in the US. Grab a New England Patriots or a Green Bay Packers jersey or other merchandise from stores. They are very comfy for home or outdoor use, especially in warm climates.

Oldbay Seasoning

This spice mixture is unbelievably tasty and is mainly used for seafood in America. It has up to 16 secret herbs and spice ingredients and is an excellent gift for people who love to cook.

Tide To Go Pens

Tide to go pens can be carried in your bag and used to remove stains. It’s also a lifesaver for white shirts. These are sold in packs of five because people love them.

Crest Whitestrips

Every American knows Crest Whitestrips and the absolutely gorgeous smile and freshening taste they bring to your mouth. I’ve become addicted to them, and no trip to the US is complete without buying a box of those.

Beautiful Postcards

Especially if you are traveling to small towns like Charleston, SC, , Savannah, GE, Salem, MA,  and many other rural but charming places, you’ll find beautiful postcards that may be treasured by your relatives. I like to buy two per place usually, showing the historical and present view of the town.

 

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