The tradition of bringing pasalubong gifts holds a special place in many Filipinos’ hearts. It’s a cherished practice that allows individuals to share their travel experiences with their loved ones. And because shipping from the US to the Philippines can get very expensive, many prefer to bring their pasalubong home personally instead of relying on international shipping.

For a lot of Filipinos living, vacationing, and working in the United States, filling their bags or balikbayan boxes to the brim with pasalubong treasures is one of the best ways to show how much they love and care about their families back in the Philippines. Because with this simple act, they’re able to convey that, even in a foreign land, their family and culture are always in their minds.

In this article, we’ll be taking a look at eight must-have pasalubong gifts from the United States that will make your US haul extra special and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones in the Philippines.

Satisfy your family’s sweet tooth with indulgent American-branded chocolates. These types of chocolates are typically known for their sweetness and smooth and velvety texture. As such, they make delectable gifts that can be enjoyed by everyone. 

Chocolates in the US aren’t also limited to the ones made by popular chocolate companies. You can also find chocolate stores that sell gourmet and one-of-a-kind chocolates that can give your pasalubong haul a unique touch. With a wide variety of chocolates to choose from, you’ll definitely find something to satisfy every chocolate lover in your family.

Bring the flavors of America's diverse regions with a selection of regional snacks and candies from the US. From the tangy and crunchy pretzels of Pennsylvania to the sweet and iconic black and white cookies of New York, these treats showcase the unique culinary offerings of different states. 

Each bite is a journey through the flavors and traditions of America, providing your loved ones with a delightful snacking experience that will leave them craving for more.

Add a burst of flavor to your loved ones' dishes with America’s regional spices and seasonings. Whether it's the smoky barbecue rubs from Texas or the zesty Cajun blends of Louisiana, these spices bring the essence of American cuisine to your loved ones’ kitchens. 

Sending them a variety of American spices and seasonings will also encourage your family to explore new flavors and experiment with their cooking by incorporating these authentic seasonings into their favorite recipes.

Spice up your loved ones' meals with authentic American hot sauces and BBQ sauces. The tangy and fiery flavors of hot sauce and the rich and smoky notes of BBQ sauce have become staples in a variety of American dishes. 

These sauces can elevate the flavors of grilled meats and sandwiches to a whole new level, capturing the essence of American culinary traditions and bringing a taste of the country's vibrant food culture to their dining table.

Surprise your family in the Philippines with stylish and trendy apparel from various US fashion labels, department stores, and campuses. The high-quality materials and attention to detail of American-made apparel ensure that these garments don’t only look great but are comfortable and durable as well. 

Moreover, each garment you bring represents the allure of American style, allowing your family to incorporate a touch of US fashion into their wardrobe.

If you have family members who are big fans of American movies, series, and music, getting them an array of pop culture merchandise will surely brighten their day. From iconic posters and t-shirts to collectible items and memorabilia, these gifts will allow your loved ones to celebrate their fandom and display their love for their favorite piece of media with pride.

Capture the essence of different American states with state-themed souvenirs. From mugs adorned with famous landmarks to keychains featuring state names, these items serve as reminders of your travels, or the state you live in, and allow your loved ones to feel connected to the various regions of the United States.

Smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles are highly valued pasalubong gifts for various reasons. For one thing, they’ve become an essential part of our lives, keeping us connected through the digital world and providing us with hours of entertainment. Some of these gadgets have also made communication easier and more accessible, making them practical everyday items.

To make the gifts more meaningful, choose devices that suit the needs and interests of your family members. For example, if you have a family member who’s an avid gamer, then a gaming console is perfect for them. If you have a health-conscious family member, on the other hand, a fitness tracker will complement their lifestyle.

Bringing pasalubong gifts from the United States is a thoughtful gesture that allows Filipinos, whether they’re working, living, or vacationing in the US, to share their experiences in the United States with their families in the Philippines. 

However, with so many iconic American products available, choosing the right pasalubong items can be stressful. With these must-have pasalubong gifts, however, you can rest assured that your haul or balikbayan box will have an extra touch of care that will definitely be appreciated by your family in the Philippines.

More stories like this:

• The Top 5 Vacation Spots In The USA
• 10 Best Things To Do in Centreville, Virginia with Kids
• 5 Top Things to Do In Florida + What To Wear When Traveling In The Sunshine State
• How To Organize A Family Trip To Orlando [Travel Guide]
• South Carolina: driving tips + things to do at the Palmetto State