If you plan to interact with any Russian people while traveling the country, it is almost always a good idea to bring a few gifts with you. It may be a hangover from the communist era, but it remains an unspoken assumption in Russia that people in Western countries are much richer than people in Russia. For that reason, in addition to traditional Russian courtesy, it is considered more than courteous for a visitor from a western country to bring small gifts for the Russian people they will be visiting.
Since it can be confusing trying to figure out what gifts to give to Russians, here is a guide you can use to choose your appropriate situation:
Gifts for Russian hosts
If you are surfing on the couch or even using AirBNB, you are definitely expected to bring a gift from your country. Ideally, it should be something of relatively good quality that cannot be found in Russia and that has some relevance to where it comes from. For example, a good bottle of maple syrup if you are Canadian makes a great gift. Any consumable such as food, good tea and good alcohol is very appropriate and welcome. Another option is household items such as coasters, storage jars, candles, and napkin holders.
Bonus points if they come from your country, region or neighborhood. If you want to bring something more personal like accessories, just make sure they are of high quality. Russians have a great eye for poorly made and poor quality things and while they won’t express it to your face, an obviously cheap accessory will go straight to the back of the closet at best (and the trash can in the worst case). Things to avoid: notebooks, pens, personal care items, decorative items like vases (unless you know your host’s taste very well).
Gifts for Russian friends
In this case, what you bring really depends on your friend; however, there are some general guidelines and standards that you can follow. In general, clothes from Western and European brands are well received, as they are much more expensive in Russia than abroad. You can also bring good accessories like wallets and scarves, but make sure they are of good quality as stated above. Local alcohol is a good option if you are going to check your luggage or you can buy it at the duty free store. Cups, candles, and other household items are also an option.
Avoid makeup and cheap, pointless junk like keychains or figurines, they are already plentiful in Russia. Also, in case you’re considering, water bottles aren’t really a thing, as tap water is generally not drinkable.
For acquaintances and business partners
If you are traveling on business or meeting a group of people you know vaguely, your task is much easier. This is the group to whom you can gift souvenirs and local foods like stroopwafels or saltwater caramel. These gifts can be less personal, meaningful, and expensive than other groups, as you don’t expect as much from them and / or don’t have a personal connection yet. Stick to something that represents who you are and / or where you are from. Keep it simple and at least a little tasteful (no flashy or punny shirts) and you’ll be clear.
You can also stock up on these things if you’re unsure whether or not you’ll need to meet the Russians – they can be a great icebreaker.
