LONDON — Forget chasing sunsets—travelers are now chasing KitKats. New consumer research shared by flight-search engine Skyscanner indicates that 47% of U.K. travelers make local snacks a top priority when they choose where to go, signaling a global pivot toward “snack tourism.” London, long a jumping-off point for European getaways, is increasingly sending its residents abroad in search of limited-edition chocolates, viral potato chips and other edible souvenirs that rarely survive the flight home.
Snack tourism: a bite-sized reason to book flights
The new survey data underscores a shift from traditional culinary tourism, which traditionally focused on restaurant reservations and cooking classes, to a more casual, highly shareable pursuit: grocery-store treasure hunting. From Zürich’s boutique counters of Läderach and Lindt to the candy aisles of Tokyo convenience stores stocked with seasonal sakura KitKats, globetrotters are crossing borders for the simple thrill of tasting something they cannot buy at home.
Millennials are leading the charge
Skyscanner’s poll found that nearly 6 in 10 Millennial respondents—59%—have already picked a holiday destination predominantly for snacks, supermarket exclusives or social-media famous delicacies. Seven out of 10 in this age group even earmark a separate snack budget, splurging on items such as Korean honey-butter chips, Italian truffle crisps and Thai chili-lime Pringles.
Gen Z travels with taste buds first
The younger cohort is not far behind. Thirty-eight percent of Gen Z travelers told Skyscanner they would gladly skip Paris’s Eiffel Tower in favor of a deep dive into authentic French bakeries and cheese shops. Their bucket lists read like menus: slurping bubble tea in Taipei, sampling sakura-flavored waffles in Tokyo or queuing for the Seoul bakery that just went viral on TikTok.
“One bite can often tell you more about a place than any museum tour ever could,” Bhowal wrote in the Oct. 27 story—an observation the numbers now back up.
Social media turns corner shops into landmarks
While Anthony Bourdain helped popularize street-food pilgrimages years ago, today’s snack tourism thrives on short-form video and influencer “haul” posts. A thirty-second reel of a Chinese student unpacking La Tiao spicy gluten strips can rack up millions of views, transforming a humble convenience-store staple into a must-buy collectible. Similar hype has surrounded Dubai’s kunafa-filled chocolates and the city’s rainbow fruit-shaped ice creams, both of which sold out after going viral. Digital platforms have also democratized foodie adventures. Instead of saving for a Michelin-star dinner, travelers can budget for dozens of under-$5 treats—each one a shareable moment for Instagram Stories or a TikTok montage.
Why 2026 could be the year of the snack seeker
Analysts expect the trend to intensify through 2026 as airlines, tour operators and even airports cater to demand. Some carriers already promote destination-specific snack packs in their in-flight shops, while boutique hotels are stocking minibars with regionally sourced candies to entice the growing niche.
Tips for Travelers: Planning a snack-centric getaway
- Research seasonal drops. Japan releases new KitKat flavors several times a year; aligning travel dates with cherry-blossom season or autumn harvest can unlock limited editions.
- Bookmark local convenience chains. Taiwan’s 7-Elevens carry snacks you will not find at duty-free, and they often run late-night specials.
- Pack smart. Resealable freezer bags and bubble wrap protect fragile chocolate shells and pungent chips from cargo-hold temperature swings.
- Declare when required. Some countries restrict meat-based or dairy-rich snacks; check customs regulations to avoid forfeitures.
- Set a snack budget. Following the Millennial playbook—70% of them do—ensures you have cash left for sightseeing, even if the supermarket receipts pile up.
Frequently asked questions about snack tourism
Is snack tourism only about junk food?
No. While candy and chips dominate social feeds, regional farmers’ markets, artisanal bakeries and specialty tea shops also fall under the snack-tourism umbrella.
What are the most sought-after snack destinations?
Japan, South Korea, Switzerland and Thailand rank high due to constant product innovation and strong export restrictions that make bringing home a suitcase full feel genuinely exclusive.
How do I find the best snacks once I arrive?
Chat with hotel staff, follow local foodie influencers and walk the aisles of neighborhood supermarkets rather than tourist-heavy gift stores.
Can I ship snacks home?
Many boutique chocolatiers, including Switzerland’s Läderach, offer international shipping, though costs may outstrip luggage fees. Compare options before checking out.
The takeaway
From Swiss truffles to Thai curry-flavored chips, snacks are no longer just souvenirs; they are becoming the central motivation for booking a flight. With 47% of U.K. travelers and large swaths of Millennials and Gen Z already rearranging itineraries around the treat aisle, the trend shows no sign of slowing. If your taste buds have ever dictated your Google Flights search, 2026 may be the year to lean in—passport in one hand, shopping basket in the other. — as Bhowal wrote in the Oct. 27 article.
