I love to shop local while traveling. I also shop local when I’m home as well. You’ve seen examples in a few different shop local in Connecticut posts. In this post I will show you how to shop local while traveling. It’s great to buy things from the people who live there and support the local artisan community.

Walk Through Non-tourist Areas

You may find locally made items in tourist areas. Sometimes local artists line the streets near cruise ship docks and other areas. However, I suggest visiting non-tourist areas. You may find someone selling items out of their home. 

When I was in Kyoto, Japan I found a couple selling items out of the ground floor of their business. There was nothing listed on Google to even show that there was a store there. This is how you find hidden gems. The prices will be less than tourist areas as well. This is because it costs more money to rent space where tourists are readily available.

Purchase From Galleries

Shop local while traveling by purchasing items at art galleries. Many times, artists pay to have their items featured. Shop local artwork, in addition to home items and jewelry. In Kyoto, Japan I visited The Kyoto Ceramic Art Association Official Shop and Gallery and purchased clay earrings. 

The information on the earrings showed the artist’s social media account. I was able to find her on Instagram (@fuyougama.ceramiya) and see more of her work. Then I shared her work with others, so more people could support her work.

Search Social Media for Artisans

This brings me to my next way I shop local while traveling. Even before I arrive at a destination, I look on social media to see the types of artisans that live in the area. I’m currently doing this for an upcoming trip. Search hashtags that have to do with artisans and artists in a specific area. An example is #londonartisans or #mexicanartists. Then I can narrow it down by city or town. And I can see where they sell their work.

Check the Item’s Origin

My last tip is to check the origin of items. You may purchase items that appear locally made. However, you may notice stickers on them that show they were made in another country. It’s not too difficult to notice this if you look closely. The bowl below had a large sticker showing it was made in Japan. Both items below were made in Japan.

These are just a few tips to help you shop local while traveling. It’s so important to shop local. This allows artisans to pass down century’s old techniques and trades from their generation onto the next one.