As the nation embarks on a summer of travel plans – from holiday trips, to sporting events and festivals – research by Walker’s Shortbread has revealed the ultimate ‘snacking etiquette’ for jet-setting Brits, laying bare the nation’s ‘dos and don’ts’ for eating on the go.
The survey of 2,000 UK consumers by the Scottish shortbread company found that when it comes to travelling, both men and women agree (47%) that having an indulgent snack is the perfect way to kick start the trip. In fact, almost half of Brits (46%) say they arrive at an airport early just to ensure they have time for a snack before they set off.
However, while snacking is a much-loved part of travel, there are unwritten rules to follow when it comes to etiquette, particularly when it comes to smelly or messy food. Smoked fish (46%) and garlic (37%) were voted the most offensive snacks to eat on public transport. Meanwhile, over a third of Brits (39%) said tea, coffee and biscuits are the ultimate snacking combination for a long journey.
Of all the generations, Millennials are most likely to think about what they are eating (43%) to avoid offending other passengers. However, you may want to think twice about sitting next to Baby Boomers who are the least likely to care about what they eat on public transport, as over a quarter (28%) say they don’t pay heed to what other passengers may think.
When it comes to organising snacks for themselves and friends or family, women tend to be most prepared when travelling long distances. And almost half of women (47%) say that providing snacks to their kids is the most important tactic in making a long journey bearable.
And if you do forget to bring a snack on a journey, then it might be worth sitting next to someone from Leeds or Plymouth, who ranked highly for their generosity, as people from those locations say they look forward to sharing snacks with their travelling companions when on long journeys (42%).
The research has been commissioned by Walker’s Shortbread, to mark the launch of its new product ‘Wee Shorties’, available in WHSmith stores at airports across the UK. The product takes Walker’s finest all-butter shortbread icons, shortbread fingers and chocolate chip, and shrinks them down to mini size perfect for on the go snacking.
Steve McCarney, Commercial Director at Walker’s Shortbread, said: “We know that many people will be heading off on their travels this summer, whether enjoying extended breaks or day trips with friends and loved ones. Having a treat with you makes the journey all the brighter, and everyone has their own favourite. However, it’s no surprise to us that tea and a biscuit is the nation’s go to.
“As a 125-year-old company, Walker’s Shortbread is a snack which has been loved for decades, standing the test of time for its simple yest delicious recipe which has remained unchanged. Now, we’re delighted to be launching Wee Shorties, which have the same great taste but in a new, snackable format.
“These wee bags are ideal for people and families looking to grab a treat at the airport this summer and are small enough to be mess free – great for those with children, and for keeping your fellow passengers happy – allowing jetsetters to share in the joy of shortbread wherever they go next.”
For more information on Walker’s Shortbread, please visit: https://www.walkersshortbread.com/