As the summer vacation approaches, Altroconsumo conducted a study in 22 service areas along the highways in Milan, Naples, Rome, and Venice, revealing that prices for food and drinks are significantly higher than in regular bars. On average, a sandwich costs around 7 euros, compared to 4.20 euros in a normal bar, marking a 70% increase in spending on the highway. Additionally, the prices for a cappuccino, croissant, and coffee are 12%, 26%, and 14% higher, respectively. Even a simple bottle of water can be pricey, with natural or sparkling water averaging over 3 euros per liter, compared to 0.67 euros in a supermarket. The study also found that sodas like orangeade and cola cost around 8 euros per liter, while energy drinks can cost up to 16 euros per liter.
For those looking to cool off with a packaged ice cream, the average price is 3 euros, with an average price per kilo of 38.51 euros. Snacks like potato chips cost around 3.13 euros, with an average price per kilo of 23.08 euros. As for chocolate bars, a 100g bar averages at 3.70 euros, but prices can range from 1.20 to 6.29 euros. Overall, the study highlights that food and drinks at highway service areas are considerably more expensive than at regular bars or supermarkets, making it important for travelers to be aware of these inflated prices before making purchases.
The study also compared the prices of food and beverages in highway service areas to those in regular bars and supermarkets, revealing substantial differences. While the average price of a panino is around 7 euros at a service area, it is only 4.20 euros in a normal bar, representing a 70% increase. Similarly, the prices for a cappuccino, croissant, and coffee are 12%, 26%, and 14% higher, respectively, at service areas compared to bars. Even simple items like bottled water are significantly more expensive on the highway, costing over 3 euros per liter, while they are only 0.67 euros per liter in supermarkets.
The study also delved into the prices of soda beverages, finding that orangeade and cola cost around 8 euros per liter, while energy drinks can reach up to 16 euros per liter. Additionally, a packaged ice cream averages at 3 euros, with a price per kilo of 38.51 euros. Snacks like potato chips are priced at around 3.13 euros, with an average price per kilo of 23.08 euros. Chocolate bars, which are popular travel snacks, can range from 1.20 to 6.29 euros for a 100g bar. These findings emphasize the need for travelers to be mindful of the inflated prices at highway service areas and plan accordingly to avoid overspending on food and beverages during their journey.
In conclusion, Altroconsumo’s study sheds light on the exorbitant prices of food and drinks at highway service areas in Italy, with items like sandwiches, coffee, soda, ice cream, and snacks costing significantly more than in regular bars or supermarkets. Travelers are advised to prepare ahead of time by bringing their snacks and drinks to avoid overspending on overpriced items at service areas. By being aware of these inflated prices and planning accordingly, travelers can ensure a more budget-friendly and enjoyable road trip experience without breaking the bank on food and beverages along the way.
