Traveling can be one of the most exhilarating experiences in life, but elements of it can be expensive. Food is one. If you eat at restaurants and hotels when traveling, it can make a huge dent in your holiday budget.
We’ve put together 12 tips to save on food when traveling that still allow you to experience the cuisine of the region you’re visiting. With a little planning and creativity, you’ll still be able to enjoy healthy and delicious meals while away from home. Keep reading to learn how!
1. Eat Like a Local
One of the best ways to save while you're traveling is by purchasing food where the locals do. Look for street food instead of fancy restaurants aimed at tourists, and you will keep your wallet full. Ask locals for recommendations.
This will usually involve a fresh produce market…always a good starting point for fresh, healthy ingredients. Such places will often have stalls with ready-cooked food as well if you don’t have cooking facilities in your accommodation. Take time browsing and savoring the colors, aromas, tastes, and vibe of the market.
2. Cook Your Own Meals
If your accommodation has a kitchen or even just a kitchenette consisting of a small fridge and microwave, make full use of it. You can prepare simple food and save on cash and on your intake of unhealthy ingredients. Look out for local markets, street sellers, grocery stores, or even small convenience shops to stock up on fresh produce, grains, and other staples.
3. Pack a Reusable Water Bottle
It’s vital to stay hydrated when traveling but bottled water and juices can be expensive. Invest in a lightweight, durable, reusable water bottle and fill it up from hotel water dispensers or water fountains whenever possible. It's not only going to save you some dollars; you will be saving the environment, too.
4. Meal Prep
Before you set out for the day’s adventures, take a few minutes to prepare some easily portable food. Put healthy snacks such as dried fruit and nuts or make some sandwiches. In the evenings, meal prep a few simple meals for the dinners ahead and store them in your accommodation’s fridge. Even a bar fridge is useful for keeping a few fresh items like cheese or fruit.
5. Grocery Store Salad Bars
Many grocery stores also have a salad and hot foods bar where you can choose pre-prepared elements and put together an inexpensive yet delicious meal. These are especially useful in larger cities as such places are much cheaper than restaurants.
6. Pack Your Own Snacks
When on the go from one place to another, take along your own small bags of nuts, dried fruits, granola bars, or fresh produce. That way, you won't be tempted by the pricey offerings in airports, on tours, or in convenience stores.
7. Seek Out Free Breakfasts
When booking any accommodation, look for hotels or hostels that include free breakfast. That way, you’ll be well set up for the day ahead with a proper meal without additional hassle and cost.
8. Grocery Delivery Services
Take advantage of them if they are available to cut the expense of eating out. In some places, online grocery purchases and delivery to your hotel or holiday house are possible. This will save you time and money on food and transport since you can stock up on essentials without needing to visit the store personally.
9. Enjoy Picnics
Weather permitting, take a simple picnic lunch or dinner and enjoy it at some scenic spot. It not only saves money but you’ll also get to enjoy the local atmosphere or find some hidden treasure. Keep it simple with market-bought local bread, cheeses, pates, fruit, and cold meats.
10. Local Farmers Markets
Explore the local farmers' markets. The produce offered will be fresh, seasonal, and cheaper than what’s found in supermarket chains or restaurants aimed at tourists. Plus, you’ll get to chat with the locals.
11. Avail Yourself of Loyalty Schemes
If you frequent a particular destination regularly, consider joining local grocery stores or restaurant loyalty programs to get discounts, coupons, or any other perk that will help you save on food expenses.
12. Embrace Leftovers
If you do happen to eat out, keep your portion sizes in check by eating half and then requesting a takeout of the rest. Take the leftovers back to your accommodation for a delicious ready-made meal the next day.
Eating well while traveling and saving your money at the same time can be challenging but it’s doable with a little planning and creativity.
You will get a chance to taste healthy regional food without spending too much by following our 12 tips. Savor all the world has to offer and have a fantastic travel and culinary adventure!
