From key chains to chess sets, seeking out travel mementos is a shared human experience. “The act of collecting gives people a sense of continuity, progression, and achievement,” registered clinical counselor Nilou Esmaeilpour says. “Each addition tells a new chapter in their life’s story. There's also a certain satisfaction derived from the hunt—finding that perfect piece to add to one’s collection.”⁠ ⁠ And if you buy the same souvenir—like a magnet or a deck of cards—from every destination you visit, the items take on even more meaning. It’s something called the “endowment effect,” wherein each item you purchase gains more value and meaning after you buy it. Do you have any souvenirs you collect? Let us know in the comments below. Link in bio for more.⁠ ⁠ 📸: jisu__choi⁠ ⁠ #travel #souvenirs #souvenir #collections #gifts #travelinspo #whywebuy #items #giftshops