Guide to Vacation Grocery Delivery Services [Tips, Tricks & More]

Gearing up for a vacation is no easy feat. Between packing suitcases, arranging travel plans and building an itinerary, grocery shopping is the last thing you should worry about. That’s where vacation grocery delivery comes into play — this is the modern solution to cater to all families' needs on the go.

Gone are the days of lugging the entire family to the store in unfamiliar surroundings. Instead, you can use vacation grocery delivery services to drop off all your items right to your lodging area. From fresh produce to kid-friendly snacks, you can customize your order to be delivered as soon as you check in. Here is everything you need to know about getting groceries delivered while on vacation, regardless of where you’re staying.

Can I get groceries delivered while on vacation?

Yes, you can get groceries delivered while on vacation with Instacart. Here at Instacart, we make it easy to order the items you need and have them delivered without skipping a beat on your vacation.

Order your groceries and have them delivered to your hotel, vacation rental or wherever else you're staying. Some hotels have restrictions on nonguests and may require a room key to activate elevators or hotel entrances, so make sure to loop in your shopper — you can always meet them outside to retrieve your order.

Items you may need on vacation

Stock up on all your favorite items like water bottles, laundry detergent and everyday beauty products without pausing your vacation. Add all of your items to your digital cart and place your order.

Here are some items you may need that you can order through vacation grocery delivery services:

Beverages:

• Alcohol
• Coffee
• Energy drinks
• Juices
• Kombucha
• Probiotic drinks
• Soda
• Sports drinks
• Tea
• Water
• Water enhancers

Food items:

• Baked goods
• Chips
• Cereal
• Cookies
• Crackers
• Dairy products
• Deli items
• Fresh fruit and vegetables
• Frozen meals
• Protein bars
• Ready-to-eat meals

Baby supplies:

• Body care
• Diapers
• Food
• Medicine
• Monitors
• Toys
• Wipes

Pet supplies:

• Pet toys
• Pet food
• Pet treats
• Pet grooming supplies
• Pet accessories
• Flea and tick treatment

Personal care:

• Beauty products
• Body care
• Eye care
• Ear care
• Deodorant
• Feminine products
• Hair care
• Oral care
• Shaving tools

Health care:

• Cold and flu medicine
• First-aid products
• Muscle and joint products
• Protein supplements
• Sexual wellness products
• Stomach pain relief medicine
• Vitamins and supplements

Household essentials:

• Air fresheners
• Cleaning supplies
• Disposable drinkware
• Disposable plates
• Food storage containers
• Laundry supplies
• Paper towels and napkins
• Water filters

Electronics:

• Camera film
• Chargers and cords
• Fans
• Headphones
• Polaroid and disposable cameras

Books:

• Crossword or word search puzzles
• Magazines
• Newspapers
• Novels

Games:

• Playing cards
• Board games
• Puzzles
• Toys

How does vacation grocery delivery work?

Vacation grocery delivery is similar to normal grocery shopping but tailored to the travelers’ specific needs. You can order your necessities while kicking back by the beach or even checking out the newest exhibit at the zoo or museum. Regardless of where you're staying and the type of lodging you booked, follow these steps for a seamless grocery delivery experience.

1. Download the mobile app or use the desktop site

To get your groceries delivered while on vacation through Instacart, you’ll need to download the mobile app or open the desktop site. Once you’re on the main page, you should be able to find everything you need and much more.

2. Add items to your virtual cart

As you browse through the online grocery store and see the items you want, hit the “add to cart” button — your groceries will move to your virtual cart seamlessly. Perhaps you’re looking for canned chicken for easy weeknight dinner ideas. Or maybe you’re looking for a new type of coffee to keep you energized for all of the excitement at the theme parks. The possibilities are endless with a click of a button!

3. Input your delivery information

Now that you’ve added all of your necessities (and more), it’s time to input all your delivery information. Make sure to be as specific as possible to ensure a seamless delivery. This includes your building, gate code, parking information and any other details your shopper may need to avoid any obstacles. This is also where you’ll add your contact information for a smooth handoff.

Certain vacation properties and hotels have restrictions for non-guests, including deliveries. Inform any guards or front desk staff of your upcoming delivery. Don’t feel defeated if your lodging has restrictions. You can always meet your shopper outside.

4. Receive your groceries

After you follow the instructions above, your online grocery order should be delivered without any hiccups. With Instacart’s innovative technology, you can track your shopper and even communicate with them if they run into any obstacles. Remember to put away your cold items like beverages, frozen foods and dairy products before getting back to your vacation.

 Vacation grocery delivery by stay type

Whether you’re staying in a vacation rental, hotel, RV or even a boat, grocery delivery can seriously simplify your trip. 

Here’s how to make the most of your order based on where you’re staying.

Vacation rentals (Airbnb/VRBO)

Vacation rentals often include full kitchens, making them ideal for meal planning. Whether you’re prepping for a family breakfast or stocking the fridge for a longer stay, you can get your groceries delivered right to your rental door. Just make sure to coordinate delivery with your check-in time and your host’s entry instructions.

Resorts and timeshares

Many resorts offer mini kitchens or kitchenettes. Instacart lets you order essentials like fresh fruit, cereal, snacks and beverages while you’re lounging poolside. For more details, check with your concierge about delivery protocols.

Tip: Choose a same-day delivery window that works after your check-in time.

Hotel rooms

Traveling with kids? Have dietary restrictions? Staying in a hotel doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy convenient grocery delivery.

Instacart supports delivery to most major hotels. Just check with your front desk first, as they may need advance notice to accept the order on your behalf.

Here are a few hotel grocery delivery tips:

• Include the hotel name and room number clearly in the delivery notes.
• Coordinate the timing of the delivery with your check-in time.
• Use the “Leave at door” option if it’s permitted by the hotel.
• For alcohol orders, have your ID ready if you are meeting the shopper. Shoppers will verify your ID by scanning or entering details manually.

From snacks and drinks to full breakfast supplies, hotel grocery delivery makes travel easier, especially if you're staying for multiple nights or traveling with kids.

RVs and campsites

Yes, Instacart delivers to RV parks and campsites. Stock up on camping-friendly meals like grilled veggies, foil packet dinners and s’mores supplies. Check out backpacking snack ideas or camping recipes and choose ingredients for your fireside favorites. Remember to confirm the exact address or site number in your order details. 

Boats and marinas

Docked at a marina? Some allow grocery deliveries right to the boat! You can order pantry staples, ice or even wine and snacks before heading out on the water.

Price of vacation grocery delivery services

Instacart is free to sign up, but there are other fees you should be aware of before placing your vacation grocery delivery order. You can expect standard delivery fees to be between $3.99 and $9.99. However, this price can sometimes be higher. While there are fees, you're saving time, energy and gas — and you don’t have to pause your trip.

Worried about the fees? Sign up for Instacart+ to receive free delivery, credit back, lower service fees and more benefits.

Here are a few additional fees you may notice on your order:

• Alcohol service: You can conveniently order alcohol online, but there are fees to cover delivery compliance and ID verification.
• Distance: Depending on your exact lodging location, there may be a long-distance service fee if the route is over 30 minutes or requires tolls.
• Heavy items: If you add any items exceeding 50 pounds, you could receive a heavy order fee to compensate for the operational expenses.
• Priority order: Need your grocery delivery order fast? Choose the priority order option to expedite your delivery window for a small fee.
• Order pickup: If you choose the pickup option, some retailers do have a pickup fee for these orders.
• Bottle deposit and bags: This fee is set according to applicable city, state, provincial, territory or retailer rules.

Benefits of vacation grocery delivery services

Still unsure if grocery delivery services on vacation are right for you? Here are a few benefits of vacation grocery delivery to help you decide.

Save time with the convenience of delivery

There’s no need to pause your fun vacation to trek to the grocery store. Vacation-goers don’t need to waste their time traveling to and from the store, getting lost in the aisles of a new store and waiting in long lines. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t have a rental car or have a fully-packed schedule.

You can find everything you need (and more) on the mobile app or the website. Order premade deli sandwiches if you need beach food ideas, or stock up on protein bars, which can boost your energy and make excellent hiking snacks.

Depending on when and where you are ordering from, you may qualify for same-day delivery — receive your order without squeezing in grocery shopping time into your itinerary.

Help stick to your budget

It’s not surprising that your intended grocery budget can get out of control on vacation. Sure, eating your meals in the theme park or indulging in local restaurants is convenient, but these costs can add up. When too many cooks are in the kitchen (or dragging your family to the store), your cart and budget can be blown out of proportion. Stick to your budget and don’t lose sight of how much you’re spending by adding the necessities (and some treats) to your virtual grocery shopping cart.

Lower your stress

Arrive at your lodging area with peace of mind, knowing your grocery shopping is covered. With the help of Instacart, vacation grocery delivery allows you to plan your meals ahead of time and stock up on snacks for the whole family. You can also select specific items that suit your dietary needs, including ingredients to whip up gluten-free dinners full of flavor — you also don’t have to worry about finding these items in unfamiliar aisles.

Tips and tricks for using vacation grocery delivery services

Getting your groceries delivered to your vacation rental, hotel or lodging area is easier than it may sound. Check out these tips and tricks to streamline your experience.

• Review lodging policies: Double-check the policy on outside guests and deliveries to vacation rentals, hotels and other lodging areas.
• Plan ahead: Make a grocery list of essential items you may need during your vacation so you don’t forget anything when placing your order.
• Input all information: Include your name, phone number, hotel or community name, access codes or guard instructions and any additional information when placing your order.
• Add any special instructions: Include detailed instructions for a seamless handoff.
• Coordinate your delivery time: Schedule your vacation grocery delivery to arrive shortly after check-in so you have your items at the start of your trip.
• Stay alert: Keep your eye on the delivery tracker during the scheduled delivery window in case your shopper has any questions.

Sample vacation grocery carts for every type of traveler

You can personalize your Instacart order based on your travels and tastes. Need inspiration for what to order? Check out these example shopping lists for different kinds of trips and travelers.

For families on vacation

• Yogurt, granola and dried fruit
• Mac and cheese
• Juice boxes
• Crackers
• Trail mix
• Laundry detergent
• Wipes

For beachgoers

• Fresh fruit and veggie trays
• Canned drinks
• Sunscreen
• Beach towels
• Beach toys

For couples on a getaway

• Champagne and wine
• Charcuterie cheeses and meats
• Chocolate strawberries
• Flowers
• Candles

For campers or RV travelers

• Grill-ready meats and vegetables
• Foil, paper towels and plates
• S’mores ingredients
• Instant coffee or tea bags
• Bug spray
• Firewood

Don’t forget about post-vacation grocery delivery

There’s nothing worse than coming home from a relaxing vacation to an empty fridge. You’re likely tired, jet-lagged and preoccupied with unpacking and laundry. The last thing you want is to run to the grocery store.

With Instacart, you can schedule a grocery delivery to arrive just after you return so you can enjoy a fully stocked fridge with all your favorites. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in extending your vacation vibes just a little while longer. Here’s how it works:

1. Before you leave, build a “Return Cart” with essentials. Think dairy, eggs, bread, coffee, cereals, fresh produce, snacks and pre-cooked meals.
2. Set your delivery window for your arrival day.
3. Enjoy coming home to everything you need — no grocery runs necessary!

Vacation grocery delivery FAQ

Can I schedule vacation grocery delivery ahead of time?

Yes, you can schedule your delivery up to two weeks in advance with Instacart. This is ideal for planning around your check-in time or return flight.

Can I get groceries delivered to a hotel or resort?

Yes, most hotels and resorts allow grocery deliveries. Just check with the front desk or concierge, and include any special delivery instructions in your order notes.

What if my flight is delayed?

If your plans change, you can reschedule or cancel your order in the Instacart app. For same-day orders, contact your shopper through the app.

Can I order groceries for someone else’s vacation?

Absolutely! You can send a delivery to a friend or family member at their vacation rental or hotel. Simply enter their address and delivery window.

What happens if I’m not in the room when groceries arrive?

With contactless delivery options, you don’t have to be present. Whether you’re in a hotel room or a rental, you can use the “Leave at door” instructions. 

What items should I include in my vacation grocery order?

Think about quick meals, snacks, beverages and essentials like paper towels, sunscreen and dish soap. Depending on where you’re visiting, you can also stock up on local favorites delivered right to your door – for example, authentic Cajun seasoning blends and fresh Gulf shrimp in Louisiana, or wild blueberries and local maple syrup in Maine!

Embark on the vacation grocery delivery train

No need to hit the brakes on your trip. Add all of your items to your virtual cart and place your order with the click of a button. From premade types of sushi for dinner to snacks for the kids on the go, get grocery delivery through Instacart.

Not sure what to make for your family? Check out these easy meal planning ideas for all taste buds.