Grocery tourism emerges as a major travel trend for 2026

Grocery tourism is emerging as a significant travel trend for 2026, with travelers increasingly incorporating supermarket visits into their itineraries to experience local culture and unique products. Research involving 14,000 travelers across 14 countries indicates that 77% of respondents enjoy exploring local grocery stores and pantries, while nearly half of travelers choose to cook during their trips.

In Japan, convenience stores known as konbini are central to this movement. Establishments like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson offer regional specialties such as onigiri, bento, and localized snacks that attract social media interest. Don Quijote also serves as a destination for combining grocery shopping with souvenir hunting.

In the United States, the trend manifests through different models, such as the ultra-premium experience at Erewhon in Los Angeles, known for celebrity collaborations, and the cult following surrounding Trader Joe’s private-label products. This shift reflects a growing desire among tourists to observe the authentic daily consumption habits of local populations.