When it comes to travel, food is often one of the biggest expenses. Dining out in touristy areas or at well-known restaurants can quickly drain your budget, especially in cities with a high cost of living. However, eating like a local can help you enjoy authentic dishes while saving money.
1. Seek Out Local Markets and Street Food
One of the best ways to eat affordably while traveling is to embrace street food. In many countries, street vendors offer delicious, fresh meals at a fraction of the price you’ll find in sit-down restaurants. Whether it’s tacos in Mexico, bánh mì in Vietnam, or a quick bowl of noodles in Bangkok, street food is often not only cheaper but also an essential part of the local food culture. You’ll get to try flavors that are unique to the area and have an authentic experience.
Local markets are also great places to sample affordable and fresh produce, snacks, and meals. In places like Barcelona’s La Boqueria or the bustling markets of Marrakesh, you can pick up ready-to-eat items like sandwiches, pastries, or fresh juices at a very low cost. These markets are a goldmine for cheap, flavorful meals, and you’ll be supporting local vendors at the same time.
2. Avoid Tourist Traps
If you’re staying in a tourist-heavy area, you’ll likely find plenty of restaurants catering to visitors. These spots often have inflated prices and watered-down versions of local cuisine. As tempting as those “tourist menus” might seem, they’re rarely the best value. Instead, ask locals for recommendations or use apps like Yelp or TripAdvisor to find spots that are more frequented by residents than tourists.
I’ve learned that exploring neighborhoods away from the main tourist attractions often leads to discovering hidden gems where the locals go to eat. These places not only offer better prices but also a more authentic taste of the region.
3. Look for Daily Specials or Set Menus
In many countries, restaurants offer daily specials or “menu del día” (menu of the day) that provide a complete meal at a fraction of the cost. These specials often include multiple courses such as a starter, main course, dessert, and a drink. In places like Spain, Italy, and France, you can find fantastic set menus at small, family-owned restaurants. These meals are often prepared with the freshest ingredients and showcase the best local flavors.
When I travel, I’ve found that opting for these types of meals not only saves money but also introduces me to traditional dishes I might not have otherwise tried.
4. Cook Some Meals Yourself
While eating out is an enjoyable part of traveling, it doesn’t have to happen every day. If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, consider preparing some of your meals yourself. Shopping at local grocery stores and cooking simple meals can save a significant amount of money, especially over the course of a longer trip. It’s also a great way to experience the local food culture by trying local ingredients and recipes.
For example, I’ve often bought fresh bread, cheese, and charcuterie from markets in Europe and enjoyed a picnic in a local park—an experience that’s far cheaper (and more enjoyable) than sitting in a touristy café.
5. Drink Water (Not Bottled Beverages)
In many countries, tap water is perfectly safe to drink and can save you from spending money on expensive bottled beverages. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever possible. Not only does this save you money, but it’s also a more eco-friendly option that reduces plastic waste. In some countries, especially in Europe and parts of Asia, you’ll find public water fountains where you can easily fill up.
By making mindful choices about where and what you eat, you can enjoy the full culinary experience of your destination without spending more than necessary. Eating like a local isn’t just about saving money; it’s about diving deeper into the culture and savoring flavors that you won’t find at the tourist hotspots. Plus, you’ll likely end up with some unforgettable food memories from your trip
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