You Won't Believe How Much You'd Pay Abroad for This Everyday Aussie Food – Tourists Are Shocked!

When we travel, the allure of exotic cuisines and local delicacies is often one of the highlights of our adventures. However, there's something comforting about finding a taste of home when you're miles away from familiar shores. But how much would you be willing to pay for that slice of nostalgia? For one couple, the price of a pantry staple abroad was nothing short of jaw-dropping.

Mark and Nadine, a married couple originally from the UK and Ireland who now call Australia home, were soaking up the sun in Thailand when they stumbled upon a can of Heinz baked beans. This humble tin, a common sight in the pantries of the UK, Ireland, and Australia, became an unexpected symbol of the couple's longing for home comforts. Yet, the price tag attached to it was anything but comforting.


In a video shared on social media, Nadine can be heard exclaiming, 'You want your Heinz beans in Thailand? Only 420 baht.' After a quick currency conversion, the couple realized that the cost was nearly $20 AUD for a single can of beans. '20 Australian dollars for a f**king can of beans,' remarked Mark, summing up their disbelief.


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Tourists in Thailand were surprised by a can of Heinz baked beans priced at 420 Baht. Credit: Tiktok / @markandnadinetravel


The couple's reaction to the 'crazy' price sparked a conversation about the value we place on familiar items when abroad. While some online commentators suggested that tourists should embrace local foods instead of paying a premium for imported goods, Mark and Nadine pointed out the significant 'markup' at the Thai supermarket. 'We know imported things are more expensive,' they said, acknowledging the reality of distribution and transport costs inflating prices.


To put things into perspective, the price of the Heinz beans in Thailand was a staggering 600% higher than what you'd pay at Woolworths or Coles back in Australia, where a tin costs around $2.80 AUD. This isn't the first time Australians have been taken aback by the price of their beloved products overseas. Last year, a packet of Tim Tams was spotted in the US with a price tag of $8.59 USD, which converts to about $13.65 AUD, causing quite the stir among Aussies who were outraged by the inflated cost.

The question remains: Is the taste of home worth the hefty price tag when you're traveling? It's a personal decision, but it's clear that for many, the emotional comfort provided by familiar foods can sometimes outweigh the financial cost.

For our members who have ventured abroad, we'd love to hear your stories. Have you ever paid a surprising amount for an Australian product overseas? Did it make you think twice, or was the taste of home worth every penny? Share your experiences in the comments below!


And remember, while it's tempting to reach for those familiar items, exploring local markets and trying the regional cuisine can be one of the most enriching parts of travel. Not only is it a chance to immerse yourself in the culture, but it's also kinder to your wallet. So next time you're faced with a pricey can of beans, consider whether it might be an opportunity to discover your next favorite dish instead.
Key Takeaways
  • Tourists in Thailand were taken aback by the high price of a can of Heinz baked beans, which was marked at 420 Baht.
  • The couple, originally from the UK and Ireland but living in Australia, highlighted the steep price difference compared to local costs, with the conversion equating to nearly $20 AUD.
  • There was a debate about whether it's worth buying familiar foods at a high mark-up when travelling, with suggestions to 'eat locally' instead.
  • The price increase for imported goods was compared to a previous instance where Tim Tams were sold in the US at a significant mark-up, drawing outrage from Australian consumers.
Do you have a story tip or a travel experience you'd like to share? Email us at [email protected] or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. We're always eager to hear from our community and share the wisdom of our seasoned travelers!
 
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