Would you travel for your favorite snack? You’re not alone—here’s how far some Americans go to satisfy a craving
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Some foods are more than just tasty—they take us somewhere.
Maybe it’s the buttery croissant that reminds you of a morning in Paris, or that street taco you had on a special trip to Mexico.
For many of us, the memory of a delicious snack is enough to stir a craving—and maybe even spark a little wanderlust.
A new survey confirms what many food lovers already know: when it comes to our favorite snacks, some cravings are worth the journey.
According to a nationwide survey of 2,000 adults, nearly one-third of Americans have traveled specifically for a certain food or snack.
About 22% said they’ve crossed state lines for a bite they couldn’t resist, and 10% have even flown to another country to enjoy a favorite treat straight from the source.
And that number might grow—another 34% said they haven’t taken a food trip yet, but would jump at the chance.
Whether it’s sushi in Tokyo or gelato in Florence, some flavors are just better when you’re enjoying them in their homeland!
If you’ve ever left room in your suitcase for snacks—or even bought an extra bag to bring food home—you’re not alone.
More than half of Americans (56%) said they make room for snacks on the return trip, and 41% said they’d buy an extra suitcase just to bring back edible treasures.
On average, travelers are willing to spend around $180 just to enjoy an international snack in its home country.
That’s a lot of chocolate, mochi, or pastries—but for many, it’s worth every penny!
So what’s everyone chasing?
The most craved flavors were mango (42%), coconut (39%), dragon fruit (27%), and dulce de leche (20%), with desserts taking the top spot for how Americans like to enjoy them.
When it comes to the best countries for snacks, Italy, Mexico, and Japan topped the list.
France, Switzerland, England, Greece, and China also made strong showings—proof that our taste buds are as well-traveled as we are.
Sure, snacks are delicious—but for many, they represent something more.
Over half of those surveyed said international flavors add excitement to everyday life, while others said it fuels their sense of adventure.
Sometimes, the snack is the trip!
From tiramisu to chocolate bars to fresh cannoli, foods can transport us—whether we’re across the globe or sitting at home remembering a past journey.
You don’t always need to travel to explore the world of food.
In fact, 80% of Americans say they’re excited to try new international snacks, and many are now easier than ever to find at local stores.
As Teruhiro Kawabe, CEO of Morinaga America, puts it: “Anyone can explore international flavors at local neighborhood markets.”
Whether it’s chamoy, mochi, or something completely new, a little culinary curiosity can take you far.
Of those who’ve traveled abroad, 81% said they found a new favorite food along the way, and nearly half said trying new snacks is one of the things they look forward to most on any trip.
Interestingly, almost half of survey respondents also believe the US doesn’t rank in the top 10 for best global snacks—which might just be another reason to keep tasting and exploring.
If you’ve ever taken a bite and been instantly transported to another place or time, you know how powerful food can be.
Whether it’s a taste from childhood or something you discovered later in life, food has a way of tying us to the people and places we love.
And let’s face it—at this stage in life, those experiences are worth seeking out.
A favorite snack can bring back memories, spark conversation, or just bring a little joy to the day.
Read next: ALDI shoppers excited over new dessert—here’s what to know before they sell out
Have you ever gone out of your way to enjoy a special treat? Do you have a favorite snack from another country—or maybe a hidden gem in your hometown that brings a taste of the world closer to home? We’d love to hear about it. Share your stories and snack recommendations in the comments. Let’s inspire each other to keep exploring, one delicious bite at a time!
Maybe it’s the buttery croissant that reminds you of a morning in Paris, or that street taco you had on a special trip to Mexico.
For many of us, the memory of a delicious snack is enough to stir a craving—and maybe even spark a little wanderlust.
A new survey confirms what many food lovers already know: when it comes to our favorite snacks, some cravings are worth the journey.
According to a nationwide survey of 2,000 adults, nearly one-third of Americans have traveled specifically for a certain food or snack.
About 22% said they’ve crossed state lines for a bite they couldn’t resist, and 10% have even flown to another country to enjoy a favorite treat straight from the source.
And that number might grow—another 34% said they haven’t taken a food trip yet, but would jump at the chance.
Whether it’s sushi in Tokyo or gelato in Florence, some flavors are just better when you’re enjoying them in their homeland!
From street food abroad to sweet souvenirs at home, snacks have a special way of turning travel into a memory worth savoring. Image Source: Pexels / Magda Ehlers.
Snacks as souvenirs: packing flavor for the trip home
If you’ve ever left room in your suitcase for snacks—or even bought an extra bag to bring food home—you’re not alone.
More than half of Americans (56%) said they make room for snacks on the return trip, and 41% said they’d buy an extra suitcase just to bring back edible treasures.
On average, travelers are willing to spend around $180 just to enjoy an international snack in its home country.
That’s a lot of chocolate, mochi, or pastries—but for many, it’s worth every penny!
Also read: Craving chips? Try these delicious, healthy snacks instead
Top flavors and destinations: a tour for your taste buds
So what’s everyone chasing?
The most craved flavors were mango (42%), coconut (39%), dragon fruit (27%), and dulce de leche (20%), with desserts taking the top spot for how Americans like to enjoy them.
When it comes to the best countries for snacks, Italy, Mexico, and Japan topped the list.
France, Switzerland, England, Greece, and China also made strong showings—proof that our taste buds are as well-traveled as we are.
Also read: Boost your brain on-the-go: Discover the 5 surprising snacks RDs swear by!
Why we travel for food: memories, meaning, and a little adventure
Sure, snacks are delicious—but for many, they represent something more.
Over half of those surveyed said international flavors add excitement to everyday life, while others said it fuels their sense of adventure.
Sometimes, the snack is the trip!
From tiramisu to chocolate bars to fresh cannoli, foods can transport us—whether we’re across the globe or sitting at home remembering a past journey.
Try something new—no passport required
You don’t always need to travel to explore the world of food.
In fact, 80% of Americans say they’re excited to try new international snacks, and many are now easier than ever to find at local stores.
As Teruhiro Kawabe, CEO of Morinaga America, puts it: “Anyone can explore international flavors at local neighborhood markets.”
Whether it’s chamoy, mochi, or something completely new, a little culinary curiosity can take you far.
Also read: The ultimate guide to snacking smart: 18 dietitian-approved snacks for healthy cravings
A travel memory in every bite
Of those who’ve traveled abroad, 81% said they found a new favorite food along the way, and nearly half said trying new snacks is one of the things they look forward to most on any trip.
Interestingly, almost half of survey respondents also believe the US doesn’t rank in the top 10 for best global snacks—which might just be another reason to keep tasting and exploring.
If you’ve ever taken a bite and been instantly transported to another place or time, you know how powerful food can be.
Whether it’s a taste from childhood or something you discovered later in life, food has a way of tying us to the people and places we love.
And let’s face it—at this stage in life, those experiences are worth seeking out.
A favorite snack can bring back memories, spark conversation, or just bring a little joy to the day.
Read next: ALDI shoppers excited over new dessert—here’s what to know before they sell out
Have you ever gone out of your way to enjoy a special treat? Do you have a favorite snack from another country—or maybe a hidden gem in your hometown that brings a taste of the world closer to home? We’d love to hear about it. Share your stories and snack recommendations in the comments. Let’s inspire each other to keep exploring, one delicious bite at a time!
