thethriftyhuman

How to Eat Well and Spend Less While Travelling

Travelling can be an amazing experience, but it can also be expensive. One of the biggest expenses is often meals. Eating out daily can add up quickly, but there are ways to save money on meals while travelling without sacrificing taste or experience. Here are some tips to help you save money on meals when travelling:

Book Accommodations with a Kitchenette

One of the easiest ways to save money on meals when traveling is to book accommodations that have a kitchenette. This will allow you to cook some of your meals and save on eating out costs. You don’t have to be a gourmet chef, just pick up some basic ingredients from a local grocery store and cook simple meals like pasta or rice dishes.

Research Local Grocery stores

Before you arrive at your destination, research local grocery stores and supermarkets. Look for ones that offer fresh produce and affordable prices. Shopping at local stores can help you save money on meals and also give you a chance to experience local cuisine.

Eat Like a LOCAL

Speaking of local cuisine, eating like a local can often be cheaper than eating at tourist hotspots. Ask locals where they like to eat or look for restaurants that are popular with locals. You may discover some hidden gems and save money in the process.

Look for Meal Deals

Many restaurants offer meal deals during certain times of the day or week. Look for deals like happy hours, lunch specials or two-for-one deals. You can also use apps like Yelp or TripAdvisor to find deals and discounts.

Pack Snacks

Packing snacks like fruit, nuts, or granola bars can save you money and keep you from getting hungry. You can also bring snacks on the go and save money on impulse purchases at tourist hotspots.

Drink Water

Drinking water instead of soda, juice or alcohol can save you money and also keep you hydrated. Many restaurants will give you water for free, so take advantage of that.

Bring a Refillable Drinking Bottle

Speaking of water, bringing a refillable water bottle is a great way to save money and reduce waste. You can fill up your bottle at public water fountains or ask restaurants to refill it for you.

Avoid Tourist Traps

Tourist traps can be expensive and often serve mediocre food. Look for local restaurants and cafes that are off the beaten path. You may find cheaper prices and better quality food.

Share Meals

Sharing meals with travel companions can save you money and also give you a chance to try more dishes. Look for family-style or sharing plates on menus or ask the server for recommendations on dishes that are good for sharing.

Try Street Food

Street food can often be cheaper than eating at a sit-down restaurant. Look for food trucks, stalls or markets that sell local street food. Just make sure to check the hygiene standards and look for vendors that are busy with locals.

Free Meals at Accomodation

If you’re staying at a hotel or hostel, check if they offer free breakfast or dinner. Some accommodations also offer free snacks or happy hour drinks. Take advantage of these free meals and save money on eating out.

In conclusion, saving money on meals while traveling doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste or experience. Book accommodations with a kitchenette, research local grocery stores, eat like a local, look for meal deals, pack snacks, drink water, bring a refillable water bottle, avoid tourist traps, share meals, try street food, and be open to free meals. With these tips, you can save money and still have a great culinary adventure while traveling. Bon appétit!