Dining is one of the most enjoyable parts of traveling, but it can also be one of the most expensive. Between airport meals, restaurant markups in tourist areas, and hidden service fees, food costs quickly eat into your budget. With a few smart strategies, you can enjoy authentic cuisine without overspending.
Eat Like a Local
One of the easiest ways to save is to avoid restaurants that cater primarily to tourists. Street food vendors and local markets often provide fresher, more authentic meals at a fraction of the cost. For example, Bangkok’s Chatuchak Market offers hundreds of affordable food stalls, while La Boqueria in Barcelona is perfect for sampling local Spanish flavors.
Book Accommodations with Kitchens
Choosing accommodations that include a kitchen or kitchenette allows you to cook some meals yourself. This is especially useful in places with vibrant markets, where you can buy local ingredients at a low cost. Sites like Airbnb often list properties with cooking facilities, giving you flexibility to prepare budget-friendly meals.
Use Grocery Stores and Convenience Shops
Shopping at grocery chains or corner stores is a reliable way to save. In Japan, 7-Eleven and Lawson convenience stores offer inexpensive and surprisingly high-quality meals. In Europe, supermarkets like Carrefour and Lidl are budget-friendly alternatives to eating out for every meal.
Stack Savings with Gift Cards and Cashback
When dining at chain restaurants abroad, you can double down on savings by paying with discounted gift cards. For example, you can earn cashback with a Starbucks gift card for your coffee stops or get rewards with a Domino’s gift card for affordable pizza nights on the go. Platforms like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Fluz provide cashback opportunities that extend your food budget further.
Avoid Tourist Traps
Restaurants located right next to major landmarks often charge premium prices. Walk a few streets away, and you’ll usually find higher quality food at lower prices. Using review platforms like Tripadvisor or Google Maps helps you identify local favorites.
Tips for Keeping Dining Costs Down
- Eat your largest meal at lunch when many restaurants offer fixed-price menus.
- Carry snacks from local stores to avoid overpriced airport or hotel food.
- Share meals to try more dishes without overspending.
- Always check whether a service charge is included before tipping.
Conclusion
Travelers don’t have to overspend to enjoy great meals abroad. From exploring local markets to earn cashback with a Starbucks gift card, there are countless ways to save while still experiencing authentic cuisine. By combining smart dining choices with cashback and rewards, you can make your food budget go further and enjoy more of what each destination has to offer.
