Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on great food. There are plenty of ways to eat well without spending a fortune. From street food to local markets, affordable options abound. With a little planning, you can enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Visit Local Markets
Local markets are treasure troves of fresh produce, snacks, and homemade meals. Not only do you get a taste of local culture, but prices are often significantly lower than restaurants. Buying a few items for a picnic can cost as little as $5, saving you up to 70% compared to dining out. Plus, it’s a fun way to explore and interact with locals.
Opt for Street Food
Street food vendors offer delicious, authentic meals at a fraction of restaurant prices. A meal from a food cart or stall can cost just a few dollars. This can save you around 60-80% compared to a sit-down restaurant. It’s also a great way to try local specialties.
Cook Your Own Meals
If your accommodation has a kitchen, take advantage of it. Buying groceries and cooking can be much cheaper than eating out. On average, you can save about 50-70% by preparing your own meals. It’s also a healthier option since you control the ingredients.
Choose Accommodations with Free Breakfast
Many hostels and hotels offer free breakfast as part of your stay. This can save you $5-$15 per day. Starting your day with a free meal leaves more of your budget for lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s convenient and often includes a variety of options.
Take Advantage of Grocery Stores
Grocery stores aren’t just for cooking; many offer ready-made meals and snacks. Items like sandwiches, salads, and sushi are often cheaper than eating out. This can save you around 30-50% compared to restaurants. It’s also a quick and easy option for meals on the go.
Use Meal Deals and Specials
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Look out for daily specials, happy hours, and meal deals at restaurants and cafes. Many places offer discounted meals during certain times of the day. This can save you 20-50% on your dining costs. Planning your meals around these deals can significantly reduce your expenses.
Stay Hydrated with Tap Water
In many countries, tap water is safe to drink, so bring a reusable bottle. This can save you money on bottled water, which can add up over time. By refilling your bottle, you can save around $2-$5 per day. It’s also an eco-friendly choice.
Share Meals
Portions in restaurants can be large, making it feasible to share meals. Splitting a dish with a travel companion can cut your meal cost in half. This can save you around 50% on dining expenses. It’s a great way to try more dishes without overordering.
Eat Like a Local
Avoid touristy areas and eat where the locals eat. Local eateries usually have better prices and more authentic food. This can save you around 30-50% compared to tourist restaurants. Plus, you’ll get a more genuine dining experience.
Pack Snacks
Bringing snacks from home or buying them in bulk can save you money. Snacks like nuts, granola bars, and dried fruit are portable and filling. This can save you from expensive impulse buys, saving you around $5-$10 per day. It’s also handy for long travel days.
Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs
Many restaurants and cafes offer loyalty programs or apps with discounts. Sign up for these to earn rewards and save on future purchases. This can save you around 10-20% over time. It’s an easy way to make your money go further.
Avoid Airport Food
Airport food is notoriously expensive. Pack your own meals and snacks to avoid paying inflated prices. This can save you around $10-$20 per meal. Plus, you’ll have more control over what you eat.
Look for Community Kitchens
Some hostels and accommodations have communal kitchens stocked with basic ingredients. Using these facilities can save you money on meals. This can reduce your food costs by around 50-70%. It’s also a great way to meet other travelers.
Eat at Buffet Restaurants
Buffets offer a lot of food for a fixed price, making them great for hungry travelers. Eating at a buffet can cost less than ordering multiple dishes à la carte. This can save you around 20-30% on dining costs. Just be mindful not to overeat.
Take Advantage of Student Discounts
If you’re a student, many places offer discounts on food. Always carry your student ID to take advantage of these offers. This can save you around 10-20% on meals. It’s an easy way to stretch your budget.
Use Discount Cards
Tourist discount cards often include deals on dining. Purchase these cards if you’re visiting major attractions and use the dining discounts. This can save you around 10-30% on your meals. It’s a smart way to save on both sightseeing and eating out.
Eat a Big Lunch
Lunch menus are often cheaper than dinner menus for the same dishes. Opting for a big lunch and a lighter dinner can save you money. This can save you around 20-40% on dining costs. It’s also a good way to take advantage of midday specials.
Join a Food Tour
Food tours often include multiple tastings for one price, giving you a variety of dishes to try. While the upfront cost might seem high, it often includes enough food for a full meal. This can save you around 20-30% compared to trying all the dishes separately. Plus, you get to learn about the local cuisine.
Use Local Delivery Apps
In some places, local delivery apps offer better deals than international ones. Check out regional apps for discounts and lower delivery fees. This can save you around 10-20% on meals. It’s a convenient option when you want to eat in without paying a premium.
Eating cheaply while traveling doesn’t have to be a challenge. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy delicious meals without overspending. These tips can help you make the most of your travel budget. Bon appétit and happy travels!
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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