Want to slice like a local? An ulu knife might be the sharpest souvenir you’ll ever buy—literally. These traditional blades have been used by Native Alaskan peoples for centuries, prized for their distinctive crescent shape and incredible versatility. Originally crafted for skinning, cutting fish and preparing food, ulu knives today are made with stainless steel and carved handles of wood, bone or antler. Their iconic shape and practical use make them a lasting souvenir of your Alaska experience, perfect for your kitchen or as a gift.

2. Qiviut musk ox wool items

Want a souvenir that’s softer than a cloud and warmer than your coziest blanket? Qiviut is the answer. This luxurious underwool comes from the Arctic musk ox, and it’s eight times warmer than sheep’s wool (yes, really!). Collected during the shedding season, this ultra-fine fiber is spun into scarves, hats, and even sweaters by skilled Alaskan artisans. Lightweight, durable and hypoallergenic, qiviut makes the perfect keepsake to stay warm and stylish while remembering your Arctic adventure.

3. Birch syrup

Alaska’s birch syrup is here to steal the spotlight. With a complex, slightly tangy flavor, birch syrup is a local delicacy that’s perfect for glazing salmon, sweetening up pancakes or adding a twist to your cocktails. It’s also a labor of love — producing just one gallon of this golden syrup requires 100 gallons of birch sap! That’s a whole lot of dedication in every bottle, making this sweet treat a must-have souvenir for food lovers.

4. Smoked salmon

This is the souvenir your taste buds will thank you for. Alaska’s smoked salmon is the real deal, caught wild from icy waters and cured to perfection. Whether you prefer traditional alder-smoked filets or crave a sweet-and-spicy twist, there’s a flavor for everyone. Packaged in ready-to-gift boxes, this savory delight makes the perfect present to share (if you don’t eat it all first).

5. Alaskan jade and ivory jewelry

Looking to add some serious sparkle to your souvenir collection? Alaskan jade and fossilized ivory jewelry are true showstoppers. The state’s official gemstone, jade, comes in striking shades of green and is polished into beautiful pendants and bracelets. Meanwhile, fossilized ivory — often from ancient mammoth tusks — is intricately carved by local artisans into stunning pieces that carry a slice of history. Each piece is a unique reminder of Alaska’s rugged beauty and artistry.

6. Totem poles

Totem poles are more than just carvings — they’re narrative works of art that tell the legends and values of Alaska’s Native cultures. While you might not be able to haul a full-sized pole back, smaller replicas made by local artists let you capture this tradition in a suitcase-friendly size. From animals to ancestral spirits, each miniature totem is a fascinating piece of Alaskan heritage to display at home.

7. Native Alaskan carvings

Looking for something truly one-of-a-kind? Native Alaskan carvings might just be your answer. Whether it’s a sleek soapstone bear, an intricately carved wooden raven or a delicate antler sculpture, each piece tells its own story and reflects the skill of its maker. These carvings, crafted by Indigenous artists, act as decor but have deep meaning and cultural significance. It’s a perfect keepsake for art lovers or anyone who wants a piece of Alaska’s spirit on their shelf.

8. Reindeer sausage

Reindeer sausage is an Alaskan favorite that’s both hearty and full of flavor. Whether grilled, smoked or sliced into a charcuterie board, it adds a wild twist to your meals back home. It’s slightly smoky, a bit spicy and packed with a story to tell at your next cookout. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving it long after you’ve left Alaska!

9. Wild berry jams and syrups

Berry much in love with Alaska? Take a taste home with wild berry jams and syrups made from local favorites like blueberries, salmonberries and crowberries. These spreads are often handmade in small batches, giving them a rich, fresh flavor that’s hard to beat. They make perfect gifts or a delightful treat for your own breakfast table. Pro tip: drizzle some over vanilla ice cream for an instant Alaskan dessert.

10. Alaskan ales

Why not toast your adventure with a sip of Alaska’s craft beers? The state’s breweries are known for their creativity, using everything from wild berries to spruce tips in their recipes. Take home a bottle of the popular Alaskan Amber or try a Smoked Porter with its rich, campfire aroma. Beer aficionados will love this—plus, it’s a great excuse to host an “I went to Alaska” beer-tasting party.

11. Gold nuggets and flakes

Want to strike gold in Alaska? Literally? Take home a bit of the Gold Rush with a small vial of gold flakes or a polished nugget. Whether you pick them up at a local shop or try your hand at panning (yes, that’s still a thing!), these little treasures are a glittering reminder of Alaska’s history. They’re the ultimate conversation starter and much shinier than a postcard.

12. Caribou pelts

Wrap yourself in a piece of the Arctic with a caribou pelt. Soft, thick and incredibly warm, these pelts offer a natural and luxurious touch to any room. Often sourced from local hunters and artisans, caribou pelts reflect Alaska’s deep connection to its environment and the traditional lifestyles of its people. Perfect as a rustic throw or an eye-catching wall decoration, they bring a touch of Alaska’s wild beauty into your home.

13. Kelp pickles

Pickles from the ocean? Why not? Alaska’s kelp pickles are a local delicacy that’s tangy, savory and surprisingly addictive. Made from sustainably harvested bull kelp, these pickles are packed with vitamins and a delightful umami kick. Perfect for adventurous foodies, they’re a snack that’ll make your taste buds think you’ve got the ocean on speed-dial.

14. Birch bowls

Alaska’s birch trees make up not only incredible forests but also produce lovely handcrafted bowls. The Great Alaskan Bowl Company turns locally harvested birch wood into beautiful, functional art. Each bowl is unique, with natural grain patterns that reflect Alaska’s wilderness. Whether you use it for serving or as a decorative piece, a birch bowl is a lasting reminder of your journey and a nod to sustainable craftsmanship.

15. National park stamps

Collecting memories is even more fun with Alaska’s national park stamps. From Denali’s towering peaks to Glacier Bay’s icy waters, Alaska’s national parks are some of the most iconic in the world. Visitors can collect stamps from park visitor centers, each one commemorating a specific location and date. It’s an inexpensive and meaningful way to capture the highlights of your trip—without weighing down your luggage.

16. Alaska sea salts

Bring a taste of the ocean home with Alaska Salt Co’s hand-harvested sea salts. Flavored with everything from alder smoke to wild spruce tips, these salts are a reflection of the state’s rugged coastal environment. They make a fantastic addition to your spice rack and are perfect for elevating your next dish with a dash of Alaskan flair — it’s like seasoning your meal with a hint of adventure.

17. Mukluks

Bring a taste of the ocean home with Alaska Salt Co’s hand-harvested sea salts. Flavored with everything from alder smoke to wild spruce tips, these salts are a reflection of the state’s rugged coastal environment. They make a fantastic addition to your spice rack and are perfect for elevating your next dish with a dash of Alaskan flair — it’s like seasoning your meal with a hint of adventure.

Shop smart: Finding authentic Alaska keepsakes