Tips for Saving Money on Food While Traveling
1. Eat Like a Local
Street Food: Street vendors and food stalls often offer delicious, authentic meals at a fraction of the price of restaurants.
Local Markets: Buy fresh produce, snacks, and meals from local markets.
2. Cook Your Own Meals
Hostels and Rentals: Choose accommodations with kitchen facilities so you can prepare your own meals.
Local Groceries: Shop at local grocery stores for ingredients and cook simple meals.
3. Take Advantage of Complimentary Meals
Free Breakfasts: Many hostels and hotels offer free breakfast. Take advantage of this to save on one meal a day.
Happy Hours and Buffets: Look for happy hour deals or buffets where you can get more food for less money.
4. Eat During Off-Peak Hours
Lunch Specials: Many restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus with the same quality food as dinner.
Avoid Tourist Traps: Restaurants in touristy areas tend to be more expensive. Eat where the locals eat.
5. Use Food Apps and Websites
Discount Apps: Apps like Too Good To Go, Eatwith, Groupon, Swiggy and Uber eats, Zomato can offer discounts on meals.
Restaurant Reviews: Use apps like Yelp and TripAdvisor to find affordable and highly-rated local eateries.
6. Share Meals
Family-Style Dining: Share larger meals or order several dishes to share among friends.
Street Food Sampling: Buy smaller portions from different vendors to try a variety of foods without spending too much.
7. Stay Hydrated with Local Water
Water Bottles: Carry a refillable water bottle and drink tap water where it's safe.
Avoid Bottled Drinks: Soft drinks, juices, and alcohol can add up quickly. Opt for water instead.
8. Use Local Transportation for Food Tours
Public Transport: Use buses and trains to explore food markets and local eateries outside the tourist zones.
Walking: Walk around neighborhoods to discover hidden gems and local favorites.
9. Learn Basic Local Phrases
Language Skills: Knowing a few basic phrases in the local language can help you navigate menus and communicate with vendors.
Menu Reading: Learn to read basic menu items to avoid misunderstandings and overcharges.
10. Avoid Airport and Hotel Food
Packed Meals: Pack snacks or meals before heading to the airport to avoid overpriced airport food.
Hotel Room Snacks: Buy snacks from local stores rather than using the expensive hotel minibar.
Examples of Affordable Local Foods
Vietnam: Pho from street vendors, banh mi sandwiches, and fresh spring rolls. Mexico: Tacos from local taquerias, street corn (elote), and tamales.
Italy: Pizza by the slice, paninis, and gelato.
India: Street food like samosas, chaat, and dosas. Thailand: Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and curries from street vendors.
Spain: Tapas from local bars, bocadillos (sandwiches), and churros.
Turkey: Kebabs, simit (bagel-like bread), and baklava from local bakeries.
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