This Unexpected Type Of Shop Is One Of Iceland's Absolute Worst Tourist Traps

Iceland is known for its stunning nature, and puffins are undoubtedly an important part of the scene. A trip to Vatnajökull National Park, the largest national park in Europe, offers a peek at the cold-weather birds, and numerous other puffin colonies can be found scattered around the country. This cute and feathered animal is worth looking out for during your trip to Iceland, but the same can't be said for the destination's puffin shops.

A puffin shop — known locally as a lundabúð — doesn't sell actual puffins, but you will find plenty of puffin memorabilia and other souvenirs. Think of these retailers as stores geared toward tourists, with keychains, fridge magnets, T-shirts, and snow globes. They're similar to the souvenir shops found in places like New York's Times Square and the 7th arrondissement of Paris.

The problem is the products sold aren't usually made locally and do little to represent authentic Icelandic culture. The European country boasts rich Nordic history and customs, with mythical folklore, a unique style of music, and an interesting take on seafood. Iceland is also home to rugged otherworldly landscapes and stunning outdoor baths, including the Blue Lagoon. The souvenirs displayed in puffin shops, mass-produced in foreign factories, have almost no connection to the true Icelandic experience.

Not every shop selling souvenirs and Iceland-themed goodies is a puffin shop. Puffin shops are most commonly found in downtown Reykjavík on streets frequented by tourists, and they tend to sell the same items. In other shops, you can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and artistically made pieces produced right on the island.

Rammagerðin is one option that specializes in hand-crafted Icelandic products. Expect high-quality clothing, skincare, blankets, and other souvenirs with a local flair. Farmers and Friends is also perfect for Icelandic clothing and music, and Hrim is a must-visit for homewares designed by Icelanders.

Some of the best places to buy souvenirs are also the most unexpected. For instance, the Kolaportid flea market offers more than random crafts and discarded antiques; it might just be the place where you discover a local treasure or a vintage Icelandic sweater. Bónus, Iceland's grocery chain, is also worth a stop for local candies and cooking ingredients, and the liquor store Vínbúðin is where to go if you want Icelandic spirits.

Iceland isn't considered among the most budget-friendly destinations to visit. However, many Icelandic goods can be worth your money, even if they tend to be a little pricier than the plastic trinkets found in puffin shops. For the most bang for your buck, consider grabbing a traditional Icelandic sweater, or a "lopapeysa." These can be purchased at the Handknitting Association of Iceland and cost between 32,000 and 38,000 Icelandic króna (about 230 to 280 U.S. dollars). Even if the price seems steep, the wool fabric is warm and durable, so just one will last you countless winters.

As mentioned before, there are also local shops and markets in Iceland that sell ornaments, home goods, and other items that have been made in the country. Even if these products can be more expensive than the ones at puffin shops, they're less likely to break or become worn out over time. Plus, you can take pride knowing your souvenir is unique to you and your taste, instead of being the same ol' snow globe collecting dust on thousands of travelers' shelves.

If your travel budget is running thin, no worries: Grab some signature Icelandic food items. They might not last as long as a lopapeysa or painting by an Icelandic artist, but they'll save you some money in comparison. Look for licorice, chocolates, sea salt, and dried fish snacks produced within the country.