Best Ways to Save Money on Food While Traveling
Traveling is an exciting adventure, but food expenses can quickly add up. Whether you’re backpacking on a budget, planning a family vacation, or embarking on a luxury trip, saving money on food allows you to stretch your travel budget further while still enjoying delicious local cuisine. Here are the best ways to save money on food while traveling without sacrificing taste or experience.
1. Plan & Research Ahead
Look for Budget-Friendly Food Options
Before you arrive at your destination, research affordable restaurants, food markets, and local eateries. Apps like Google Maps, Yelp, and TripAdvisor can help you find highly-rated but reasonably priced places to eat.
Find Accommodation with a Kitchen
Booking an Airbnb, hostel, or hotel with a kitchen allows you to prepare your own meals, saving money on expensive restaurant bills. Even making breakfast or simple dinners can cut food expenses by 50% or more.
Check for Free Breakfast Options
Many hotels and hostels offer complimentary breakfast, which can be a great way to start your day without spending extra money. Look for accommodations that include this perk.
2. Eat Like a Local
Visit Local Markets & Street Food Stalls
Instead of dining at touristy restaurants, try local food markets and street vendors, which often serve authentic, delicious meals at a fraction of the price. Plus, it’s a great way to experience the local culture!
Avoid Tourist Traps
Restaurants near major tourist attractions tend to be overpriced. Walk a few blocks away to find cheaper, more authentic dining options. A good rule of thumb: If the menu is in multiple languages or has pictures of the food, it’s probably catering to tourists and will be more expensive.
Eat Where the Locals Eat
Ask locals for recommendations on where to eat. If you see a restaurant full of locals, chances are it’s good, authentic, and reasonably priced.
3. Smart Ordering Strategies
Choose Lunch Over Dinner
Many restaurants offer lunch specials, which are significantly cheaper than dinner menus for the same dishes. If you want to try a fancy restaurant, go for lunch instead of dinner to save money.
Split Meals or Order Appetizers
Restaurant portions in some countries (especially the U.S.) are large enough to share. Consider splitting a dish with your travel partner or ordering appetizers instead of full meals.
Drink Tap Water Instead of Buying Beverages
Ordering sodas, juices, or alcoholic drinks at restaurants can quickly add up. Stick to tap water (if safe to drink), and buy drinks from a grocery store instead of a restaurant.
Shop Smart at Grocery Stores
Buy Snacks & Ready-to-Eat Meals
Supermarkets often sell pre-made meals like sandwiches, sushi, or salads that are cheaper than restaurant meals. Stock up on snacks like fruits, nuts, and granola bars to avoid spending on overpriced airport or convenience store snacks.
Try Local Supermarkets Instead of Convenience Stores
Avoid overpriced mini-marts or hotel shops. Instead, shop at local supermarkets or discount stores for essentials at local prices.
Buy in Bulk
If you’re traveling with a group, buy larger portions of food and split the cost to save money. Many items like bread, cheese, and pasta can be shared for multiple meals.
5. Use Technology to Find Deals
Download Food Apps for Discounts
Apps like Too Good To Go, Eatigo, and The Fork offer discounts on meals at restaurants, helping you save money while reducing food waste. Many fast-food chains and restaurants also have mobile apps with exclusive discounts and coupons.
Look for Happy Hour & Daily Specials
Many restaurants and bars have happy hours or daily specials where food and drinks are discounted by up to 50%. Take advantage of these deals to enjoy a great meal at a lower price.
6. Take Advantage of Free Food Opportunities
Attend Hostel or Hotel Social Events
Many hostels and some hotels offer free dinners, social nights, or happy hours where you can get free or cheap food. It’s also a great way to meet other travelers.
Enjoy Complimentary Snacks & Drinks at Lounges
If you have airport lounge access (via credit cards, memberships, or business class tickets), you can enjoy free food and drinks before or after your flight.
Look for Free Samples at Local Markets
Food markets and specialty stores often offer free samples of local delicacies. This is a great way to taste different foods without spending money.
7. Embrace Alternative Dining Options
Cook Your Own Meals
If you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, cooking just a few meals per week can save you hundreds of dollars. Even making simple meals like pasta, salads, or sandwiches can cut costs.
Have a Picnic
Buy local bread, cheese, meats, and fruits from a grocery store or farmers’ market and have a picnic in a scenic spot. It’s cheaper than dining out and offers a unique experience.
Join Local Community Meals or Food Exchanges
Some cities have community kitchens or food-sharing events where travelers and locals can cook and eat together. This is a great way to enjoy a meal for free or at a low cost while meeting new people.
Final Thoughts
Eating well while traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. By making smart choices, embracing local food culture, and using technology to find discounts, you can enjoy delicious meals while staying within your budget. Whether you’re eating street food, shopping at local markets, or cooking in your accommodation, these tips will help you save money on food without missing out on amazing culinary experiences.
Do you have any favorite travel food-saving tips? Share them in the comments! 🍽️✈️
