From Tokyo’s KitKats to Sydney’s Tim Tams, travellers are turning their holidays into global snack hunts.
Forget souvenirs - pack snacks. A new kind of traveller is hitting the runway armed not with a guidebook but a grocery list. The latest bite-sized travel trend? Snack tourism: exploring the world through its local munchies.
Introducing The Skysnacker Lounge
This October, Skyscanner is bringing global flavours to London with the launch of The Skysnacker Lounge - the city’s first-ever pop-up experience dedicated entirely to cult snacks from around the world.
From 31 October to 2 November, visitors can sample free iconic snacks and drinks from every corner of the globe, all in one place. Whether you’re a foodie explorer or a frequent flyer with a soft spot for sweets, the Skysnacker Lounge promises a truly tasty journey.
“Giving travellers a taste of the world, one vending machine at a time. We’re inviting travellers to embark on a taste adventure, discover trending global treats, and maybe even find inspiration for their next trip.” - Skyscanner’s Travel Expert Laura Lindsay
Where to go
Travel for the taste
At Skyscanner, our data shows that almost half of UK travellers (47%) say local food and snack options are a top priority when booking a trip. From tasting France’s chocolate-dipped Petit Écolier biscuits to hunting down Japan’s limited-edition KitKats, travellers are craving authentic, edible experiences that connect them to local culture. Because nothing says “I’ve arrived” like your first bite of something you can’t get back home.
Snacks over sights
When it comes to the generations, Millennials are most likely to plan their trips around trending snacks, as nearly 6 in 10 (59%) of those who have been on holiday abroad choose their holiday destination based on finding certain cult foods, supermarket snacks or local delicacies and 70% even allocate budget for buying unique international snacks while abroad. Although, they aren’t the only generation of foodies, as 38% of Gen-Z would rather dine on French food than visit the Eiffel Tower, when it comes to immersing themself in local culture.'
Around the world in 70 snacks
Taste your way across continents at The Skysnacker Lounge, featuring more than 6,700 individual snacks sourced from Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Australasia.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s on offer:
Europe
Like a dessert trolley of classics, Europe’s snacks blend nostalgia and refinement
Daim Bites, Carambar Caramel, Petit Ecolier Biscuits, Haribo Polka, Fanta Limon
The Americas
Imagine a sweet shop road trip stretching from Los Angeles to Buenos Aires
Cheetos Flamin’ Hot Crunchy, Nerds Gummy Clusters, Dr Pepper Strawberry & Cream Soda, Pringles Beer Can Chicken
Asia
Asia’s line-up reads like a snack innovation lab - bold flavours, curious combos, and colour everywhere
KitKat Birthday Cake, Lays Magic Masala, Samyang Buldak Ramen Carbonara, Mogu Mogu Melon Drink, Popping Boba Lychee
Australasia
Think of this region as the snack world’s sunny picnic blanket - playful, nostalgic, and proudly sweet
Tim Tams, Caramello Koala, Cheezels, Violet Crumble, Lifesavers Fruit Tingles
Plan your own snack-hunting trip
Hungry to join the trend? Here’s how to snack like a pro traveller:
Do your research: Scroll TikTok or local blogs before you fly - snack trends move fast.
Shop smart: Supermarkets and convenience stores are where locals go - and where prices stay real.
Know the rules: Some foods can’t cross borders - check customs before you stash. To help you pack smart, Skyscanner’s guide to 17 unexpected items banned from hand luggage.
Leave room: Extra luggage space is the mark of a seasoned snack tourist. Check the allowances for both hold and cabin luggage for the most popular air carriers flying to and from the UK.
Share the haul: Snack tasting nights are the ultimate souvenir experience.
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