britmama

We are flying home to the UK for Christmas for the first time in ages to visit family (grandparents, siblings, cousins, etc.). When people visit us here they often bring typical British food items for us, which is always much appreciated. I'm scratching my head as to whether there are typical American things, food or otherwise, that we could take over as unusual presents for our British family. Can't be too heavy, bulky, or fragile, due to having to take them in our suitcases. The one thing I was thinking of is maple syrup, especially since we live in a syruping area, but since that is not terribly original any other suggestions would be very welcome!

spouse of scouse

As well as maple syrup, maybe locally made jam or honey. Candy or chocolate that isn't commonly available in the UK, ditto savoury snacks. Local dried fruits and natural or candied macadamia nuts. American cheese, dressings (eg ranch).

Nutmegger

If you are looking for items for young people (and some not so young!), I find they love US sports team t-shirts, whether they've heard of the actual teams or not! And they pack easily . . .

robin1234

scrubbedexpat096

Not just the kids

Clothing is generally much cheaper in the USA. Perhaps a decent pair of Levi's or something may go down well.

lansbury

Twinkies - small, light and indestructible.

SpoogleDrummer

If anyone likes cooking you could try a cookbook of local cuisine, though you'd probably have to have a flick through to make sure it wasn't full of things you can't get the ingredients for in the UK. You could always go to a big and tall shop and buy someone a massive pair of undies, I know my mom enjoyed pointing out that people are fatter here when she visited.

tom169

Yeah, jeans are SO much cheaper here

tht

livinginnyc

^^ This, it depends on their age & gender but in a recent 'care package' I sent to a friend in the UK included Hershey chocolate she cant get locally (and M&M's peanut butter), life savers/twizlers, and teeth whitening strips (I've had a bunch of UK friends stock up on this when they've visited), Female wise there are items in stores like Ulta/Sephora that are cheaper or simply unavailable n the UK. For Male friends/family I've gone to random places like Spencers, Sharper image to find gadgets and items. I've also sent back 'Americana' that I've found in touristy stores from various States over the years, something unique.etc (one I also sent over recently was a NY State shaped cheese board).

Hope this helps!

Yes! Walmart of all places does Levi's for like $20, and for other clothes - Ross, TJ Maxx & Century 21 (the day I found out about C21 was a good day!).

Rete

Yes, if you can get your hands on wines from the Finger Lake region of NYS that would a great choice. Some fairly decent ones from Long Island, NY.

If you have a Cracker Barrel in your area, stop in there and have a look at all their products. Some really unique gifts, old-fashion hard to get candy, peanut or pecan brittle, etc.

Ecto17