How to Eat Well on a Budget While Travelling

Food is one of the most memorable parts of travel—whether it’s a street-side taco in Mexico City, a market-fresh salad in Florence, or a steaming bowl of pho in Hanoi.

Eating well while travelling doesn’t have to mean overspending or compromising on nutrition. With a little planning and flexibility, you can enjoy delicious, nourishing meals without draining your budget.

Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a long-term adventure, these ideas will help you stay fuelled, healthy, and financially savvy.

Start with Where You Stay

Your accommodation can shape your entire food experience. Booking a place with a kitchen or kitchenette gives you control over what you eat and how much you spend. Even a mini-fridge and microwave can make a big difference.

Look for:

• Apartments or hostels with shared kitchens

• Hotels with free breakfast or in-room appliances

• Airbnb listings that mention cooking facilities

Preparing simple meals—like oatmeal, pasta, or stir-fry—can save you money and help you eat more mindfully. It’s especially useful in destinations where eating out is expensive, like Scandinavia or Switzerland.

For more tips on choosing budget-friendly accommodations with kitchens, check out CabinZero’s guide to eating cheap and healthy while traveling.

Embrace Local Markets

Markets are one of the best places to find fresh, affordable food. They offer insight into local culture and ingredients, and they’re often cheaper than supermarkets or restaurants.

At a good market, you can:

• Pick up fruit, bread, cheese, and snacks for picnics

• Try regional specialties without paying restaurant prices

• Chat with vendors and learn about local food traditions

In many cities, markets are open daily or weekly and cater to locals, not just tourists. Bring a reusable bag, some cash, and an open mind—you might discover your favourite meal of the trip.

For inspiration, browse Nomads Beyond’s tips on eating healthy and cheap while traveling.

Pack Smart Snacks

Travel days can be unpredictable—delays, long layovers, or remote locations can leave you hungry with few options. Packing your own snacks helps you avoid overpriced airport food or convenience store junk.

Consider bringing:

• Nuts, dried fruit, or trail mix

• Whole grain crackers or rice cakes

• Instant oats or soup packets

• Reusable water bottle and utensils

Having snacks on hand also helps regulate energy and mood, especially for children or neurodivergent travellers who benefit from routine and predictability.

For more snack ideas and packing strategies, see Money Crashers’ guide to saving on food while traveling.

Choose One Meal to Splurge

Eating well on a budget doesn’t mean skipping every restaurant. Instead, choose one meal a day—or one every few days—to enjoy out. This lets you experience local cuisine without overspending.

Try:

• Lunch instead of dinner (often cheaper)

• Street food or food trucks

• Local diners or family-run cafés

• Daily specials or prix fixe menus

Balancing splurges with home-cooked or market meals helps you stay within budget while still savouring the culinary side of travel.

Use Food Apps and Maps

Technology can help you find affordable, healthy meals wherever you go. Before arriving in a new city, save a few budget-friendly restaurants or markets on your map. This reduces decision fatigue and helps avoid overpriced tourist traps.

Helpful tools include:

• HappyCow – for vegetarian and vegan options

• Google Maps – save starred locations and read reviews

• Too Good To Go – rescue surplus food from restaurants at low prices

• Yelp – find local favourites and filter by price

Turning food scouting into an activity—like visiting a weekend market or exploring a neighbourhood known for street food—can be fun and budget-friendly.

Cook Simple, Eat Mindfully

Cooking while travelling doesn’t have to be elaborate. Focus on simple, nourishing meals that use local ingredients and minimal equipment. Think one-pot dishes, salads, or sandwiches.

Mindful eating also helps you enjoy your food more and avoid overeating. Sit down, slow down, and tune into what’s on your plate. It’s easy to fall into autopilot mode when rushing between sights or checking your phone.

Some travellers find it helpful to rate their hunger before eating or to portion meals in advance. This can be especially useful when managing dietary needs or staying energized on long travel days.

Explore Street Food (Safely)

Street food is often the most affordable and authentic way to eat while traveling. It’s fast, flavourful, and rooted in local tradition. But it’s important to choose vendors wisely.

Look for:

• High turnover and busy stalls

• Clean prep areas and fresh ingredients

• Locals eating there (a good sign)

• Cooked-to-order dishes over pre-prepared items

In places like Thailand, Vietnam, and Mexico, street food is not only cheap—it’s a cultural experience. Just be sure to carry hand sanitizer and listen to your body if something doesn’t sit right.

Stay Hydrated Without Overspending

Buying bottled drinks throughout the day adds up quickly. Instead, carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at safe sources. In many countries, tap water is drinkable—or you can use a filter or purification tablets.

Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol as your main hydration source. They’re expensive and can leave you feeling sluggish. If you want something flavourful, try local teas, fresh juices, or electrolyte packets.

Final Thoughts

Eating well on a budget while traveling is about balance—between indulgence and intention, spontaneity and planning. With a few smart habits, you can nourish your body, connect with local culture, and keep your spending in check.

Whether you're cooking in a hostel kitchen, picnicking from a market haul, or savouring a street-side delicacy, every meal can be an opportunity for both joy and savings. The key is to stay flexible, curious, and kind to yourself along the way.