Holidaymakers who once bought fridge magnets are now visiting supermarkets on their trips. For many travellers, browsing a local grocery store is a way to find foods and products they cannot easily buy at home. Supermarkets are also free to enter and offer everyday prices. For British travellers, however, some of the most tempting products cannot legally be brought back to Great Britain.
Hilton surveyed more than 14,000 travellers across 14 countries for its 2026 Trends Report. Some 77 per cent said they enjoy exploring local grocery stores while abroad, while 48 per cent said they cook some of their own meals while travelling. Expedia Group's Unpack '25 research found that 60 per cent of Brits prioritise visiting a supermarket to buy local goods and delicacies. Sweets were the most popular purchase at 43 per cent, followed by condiments and spices at 20 per cent.
