If you consider yourself a certified foodie, it can be really difficult to skimp on your meals, especially when you’re traveling. When you’re on vacation, your food expenses can easily add up. You’ll have to think about the costs of your accommodation and entertainment as well. But, when you’re visiting another country, especially if it’s your first time, you should never miss the chance to sample local cuisine and have a full experience of your destination.
Thankfully, you don’t have to make any sacrifices. There are many ways to satisfy your cravings on vacation without going beyond your budget:
Pack your own food and pack smart
When you’re doing some sightseeing, it’s only normal to feel a little hungry when you’re in between meals. You might be tempted to just buy snacks and drinks as you go, but these can all add up very quickly. So, make sure to keep some filling snacks in your backpacks and purses such as granola bars, dried fruits, and nuts. Not only are these cheap and healthy, but they also won’t go bad quickly or make a mess inside your bag. Also, don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle with you when go for some sightseeing. There are plenty of good-quality tumblers that are specifically designed for traveling. If you’re a coffee lover, you can bring a thermos and fill it up with free coffee from your hotel. Lastly, if possible, save your leftovers when you do eat out. Plastic baggies and Tupperware are perfect if you have leftovers from a restaurant.
Try some street food
In many countries all over the world – especially in Asia – street food is everywhere. Many busy streets in the city are filled with small food stalls and areas where vendors cook food and sell them for a reasonable price. Just grab a plate, find an empty plastic chair, and enjoy your meal. Some of the best street food in the world can be found in Southeast Asia, where you can get the best street food in the world from Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore. You can eat for less than $5 a day, while also experiencing the best of what the country has to offer in terms of cuisine. Here’s another tip: you’ll be able to save for if you get your meals at street stalls instead of street vendors because the latter usually have a more permanent set-up. They have to pay for rent.
Take advantage of bufferts and special discounts
Buffets may not be known for having the most impressive meals. But, they offer great value for your money, and you won’t have to worry about eating too much and having to pay a huge bill later because everything is all-you-can-eat. Some offer heavy meals that can last you for a whole day. So, when looking for a hotel, see if they offer breakfast buffets. Also, try some local food because most of the time, these local dishes are much more affordable if you get them in their home country, and they’re definitely authentic. In Japan, not only is sushi more reasonably priced, but you can expect the fish quality to be on a different level as well, even the conveniece-store knd. In Singapore, you can find lots of sites that offer discounts on lunch deals at local favorites.
