Amanda at Vagabondish has a list of everyday objects that turn out to be very useful and versatile tools for travelers, from elastic bands to duct tape. Most surprising was #6: large, sturdy envelopes:

If you are travelling for more than a few weeks, and you’re anything like me, you will inevitably collect some things along the way that you want to keep but don’t actually need to carry around on your trip with you. Send them home! Keeping a few envelopes in your backpack – they’re flat, light and don’t take up much space – makes this a much more likely option.

It’s a brilliant idea! Souvenirs are a great way to make vacations last longer, and this is the equivalent of sending your future self presents from the road. And while you’re at it, why not send yourself a daily post card? When you get home, you’ll have a stack of vacation memories amidst the bills and junk mail.