Etsy.com is a platform for creators. There is no middle man. I’ve coined this phrase “From their hands to your home.”  Here you can find unique, handmade items that stand out above the rest. 

As a travel blogger, I feature Etsy items on my site. I am an affiliate marketer for the company. This means I earn a commission on any item sold through the links on my pages. This is at no additional cost to the consumer.  

Etsy fits in with my blog’s narrative of sustainable tourism. Conscioustraveler.co. features unique experiences, boutique hotels, travel tips, and trends. To be a conscious traveler means…when we travel we want to leave a place better off than before we arrived. I offer products on my sites that relate to travel, such as outdoor gear and accessories, travel fashion, eco-friendly items, and travel journals.  

Etsy offers thousands of eco-friendly and handmade items that directly benefit the artisan or creator.   It’s so important that we, as consumers, support small businesses, especially during the pandemic. When you purchase an item through Etsy you are directly supporting a local vendor or creator. And there’s more. There are so many unique items and handmade products you won’t find anywhere else. If you are looking for gifts for the holidays or a special occasion, this is the place. Not to mention all the custom-made items. Most Etsy sellers will add whatever personal message you want. 

Some of my favorites shops include:

1. Pet Items. Custom-made items for your pet or of your pet. It could be a  pillow, or a collar, and a tag. They’re beautiful, durable, and one of a kind. 

2 .Masks & Lanyards. I found a great collection of handmade masks with replaceable filters. Lanyards in every color and style. Now, why didn’t I think of that? You’ll find yourself saying that a lot on Etsy. Clip the lanyard to your mask and dangle it from your neck when not in use. So much better than constantly putting it in your pocket or hanging off one ear. 

3. Journals.  Over the last year, I have made it a daily exercise to write in a journal. It has become a habit and I look forward to it every day.  Even if it’s only for a few minutes. Setting my intentions has kept the stress at bay and focused on my tasks.   

It is so beneficial to journal when you travel.  Take note of the senses you are experiencing. Breathe in the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and touch. Express these in your travel journal. Years from now you’ll go back, and read through the pages. The memories you felt that day, from your trip, will all come racing back. You won’t recall those specific moments or feelings in any photo or video. 

Etsy sellers have created the most beautiful handmade journals. These are keepsakes that will last a lifetime.    

4. Spa Gift Sets & Handmade Soaps.  Need a spa day? Etsy offers beautiful handmade soaps, bath salts, candles, lip balm, and more that will provide you or a loved one with a soothing day. I did. It was amazing. 

I’m passing on a bit of advice given to me by my mother...from her mother.  Take care of number 1 first, so number 1 can take care of number 2, 3, 4…..This philosophy works and keeps you in check. If you’re feeling good then the rest of the family will feel good too. 

5. Headbands. I’ve been wearing headbands every day, since March of 2020. They go great with my yoga pants and comfy t-shirts.  Etsy creators have thought of everything, from adjustable, soft, knotted headbands to wide headwraps. They come in multiple colors and patterns. 

6. Jewelry. I love handmade jewelry. Specially made with natural elements of crystals, stones, and beads. I am partial to the boho and more rustic fashions. When I travel I’m always bringing home a handmade piece of jewelry made by a local vendor. It holds meaning to me and serves as a special keepsake.

7. Custom Portrait Mugs. These are great gifts. Perfect wedding gift for the bride and groom or a best friend. Any holiday like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Birthday, or Valentines. You can have one made up for your pet or maybe you know someone that just bought a new home.  I love that they are drawn figures or cartoon images. Just makes it that much more special.  

I hope you’ve enjoyed my Besty of Etsy article. If you would like to receive my latest posts or learn more about sustainable tourism, please subscribe to my blog and follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest.  

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