Surprising 2025 Travel Trend: TikTok Inspires Tourists to Visit Supermarkets Abroad, Know More

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In 2025, a surprising trend is gaining momentum among travelers—visiting supermarkets while on holiday. Influenced by viral TikTok videos, tourists are flocking to grocery stores in foreign countries as part of their travel experience. What was once a mundane errand is now considered an exciting cultural activity. According to Expedia Group’s annual Unpack ‘25 report, 39% of travelers plan to make a supermarket stop on their overseas trips, and 44% are hunting for local items they can’t find back home.

This trend is reshaping how people see shopping abroad and has even become a unique way to collect souvenirs.

A New Take on Souvenirs

Gone are the days of picking up the same old keychains and mugs as travel mementos. In 2025, tourists are seeking more meaningful, consumable, and share-worthy souvenirs. The trend, known as “Goods Getaways,” has travelers venturing into supermarkets to discover local treats and products that make their journeys unforgettable.

From rare snacks to unique skincare items, travelers are embracing the idea of bringing home products that tell a more authentic story of their destinations. As one TikTok user explained, “Going to a grocery store could technically be counted as sightseeing, right? You can find lots of cool stuff to bring back as souvenirs.”

TikTok Drives the Trend

It’s no secret that TikTok is shaping how younger generations, especially Gen Z, approach travel. TikTok’s influence is evident in the surge of interest in items like viral chocolate bars from Dubai or skincare products from Korea. The platform has become a go-to space for travelers to share their finds, which has spurred others to follow suit. As a result, travelers are not just exploring iconic tourist sites—they are making grocery stores part of their must-visit lists, hoping to discover what locals cherish in their everyday lives.

This phenomenon is a testament to how social media continues to alter the travel landscape. No longer just about visiting famous landmarks, travelers now prioritize immersing themselves in the local culture, even down to what people eat and buy.

Detour Destinations: Exploring Lesser-Known Gems

But there’s more to 2025’s travel trends than just supermarket trips. According to Unpack ‘25, the demand for less crowded, off-the-beaten-path destinations is also on the rise. These “detour destinations” are being sought out by travelers who want to avoid the usual tourist hotspots and explore hidden gems.

Some of the top detour destinations for 2025 include:

• Reims, France (detour from Paris)
• Brescia, Italy (detour from Milan)
• Cozumel, Mexico (detour from Cancun)
• Santa Barbara, California, USA (detour from Los Angeles)
• Waikato, New Zealand (detour from Auckland)

These locations offer travelers a chance to discover something new, less commercialized, and more authentic. In fact, 63% of travelers say they are likely to visit such destinations in the near future, making them a growing trend for the next year.

Why Are Detour Destinations Gaining Popularity?

Travelers are increasingly craving experiences that offer a sense of novelty and authenticity. These detour destinations often provide just that. Whether it’s enjoying the quiet charm of Reims or discovering the local culture in Brescia, these cities promise an escape from the bustling crowds typically found in major tourist centers.

By stepping off the beaten path, tourists not only find unique places to explore but also support smaller communities, allowing them to experience the heart of a region without the overwhelming crowds that often define more popular destinations.

Unique Souvenirs: A New Approach to Travel Mementos

As travelers embrace new experiences, their approach to souvenirs is evolving. The most popular items to bring home now include:

• Maple syrup from Canada (19%)
• Honey from New Zealand (16%)
• Watches from Switzerland (15%)

Instead of the usual trinkets, tourists are hunting for high-quality, local products that they can use or share with others. Supermarket shelves are now filled with hidden gems, like artisanal jams, locally produced wines, and rare treats that tell a unique story about the destination.

These products are more than just souvenirs—they are an integral part of the traveler’s experience, offering a tangible connection to the place they’ve visited.

Looking Ahead: Travel in the TikTok Era

The trends highlighted in Unpack ‘25 showcase how the travel industry continues to evolve in response to changing consumer desires. With TikTok and other social platforms influencing travel choices, tourists are becoming more discerning about the experiences they seek. Whether it’s visiting a local supermarket or venturing to lesser-known destinations, travelers are now looking for authenticity, immersion, and connection.

In 2025, travel isn’t just about ticking off famous landmarks. It’s about embracing the local culture, from the food and products you can’t find at home to the quiet charm of hidden gems that are just waiting to be discovered.

Conclusion: Embracing the New Age of Travel

As we look toward 2025, travel is no longer just about the typical tourist attractions. Social media, particularly TikTok, is reshaping how travelers approach their journeys—leading them to supermarkets for local treasures and encouraging them to explore destinations off the beaten path. The rise of detour destinations and the growing demand for unique souvenirs signals a shift in what travelers value: authenticity, experience, and connection to the places they visit.

So, the next time you’re abroad, skip the typical souvenir shop and head to the local supermarket. You might just discover a hidden gem that will make your trip unforgettable.