Cheap Eats: Dining Out Without Breaking the Bank While Traveling

8 July 2025

Traveling is one of life's greatest joys. But let's be honest—eating out while on the road can drain your wallet faster than you can say "check, please!" Whether you're backpacking through Europe, road-tripping across the U.S., or exploring the bustling streets of Southeast Asia, food costs can add up quickly.

So, how do you enjoy delicious meals without blowing your budget? The good news is that cheap eats exist everywhere—you just need to know where to look. This guide breaks down practical tips to help you enjoy great food without spending a fortune.

1. Street Food: The Budget Traveler’s Best Friend

Street food is hands down the best way to eat affordably while traveling. Think about it: local vendors serve traditional dishes at a fraction of the price you'd pay at a restaurant, and the flavors? Authentic and mouthwatering.

Why Street Food Works

- Authenticity: You get to taste real, local flavors without tourist price hikes.
- Affordability: Meals often cost just a few dollars.
- Convenience: Street food stalls are everywhere, from Bangkok's night markets to Mexico City's taco stands.

Pro Tip:

To avoid an upset stomach, go for vendors with long lines—if locals are eating there, it’s probably safe.

2. Local Markets: Fresh, Cheap, and Delicious

Markets are a goldmine for affordable eats. They’re packed with fresh produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals. Instead of paying for an expensive restaurant dish, why not grab a baguette, some cheese, and fresh fruit for a picnic?

Best Types of Market Finds:

- Fresh produce: Perfect for a healthy and low-cost snack.
- Grab-and-go meals: Many markets sell pre-made sandwiches, grilled meats, or dumplings.
- Souvenirs: Buying local spices or snacks to take home is often cheaper than souvenir shops.

Pro Tip:

Shop toward the end of the day! Vendors often lower prices to clear out inventory before closing.

3. Mom-and-Pop Restaurants: Skip the Chains

Local, family-owned restaurants (a.k.a. "mom-and-pop" eateries) serve home-cooked meals at reasonable prices. Unlike tourist traps, these hidden gems cater to locals, which means better flavors and lower prices.

How to Spot a Good One:

- Check where the locals eat—if a restaurant is packed with residents, it’s a good sign.
- Look at the menu—if there are pictures of iconic landmarks, it’s probably for tourists.
- Use Google Maps or Yelp—filter your search for “cheap eats” to find budget-friendly options.

Pro Tip:

Ask a local for recommendations. Hotel staff, taxi drivers, or shop owners often know the best spots.

4. Buffet-Style or Pay-By-Weight Restaurants

If you're traveling in places where buffets or food-by-weight restaurants exist, take advantage of them! These spots let you pile on what you want and pay accordingly, making them perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

Where You'll Find Them:

- Brazil: "Comida por quilo" (food by weight) restaurants are common and affordable.
- Southeast Asia: Many vegetarian buffets let you serve yourself for just a few bucks.
- Europe: Some casual cafes offer pay-per-weight meals, reducing food waste and your expenses.

Pro Tip:

Don’t overload your plate at first—try a little, then go back for more if needed.

5. Supermarkets: A Secret Budget Hack

Supermarkets are lifesavers for budget travelers. Not only can you grab affordable meals, but you also get to see what locals actually eat.

What to Buy:

- Pre-made sandwiches and salads (great for lunch on the go).
- Local snacks to try without dining at a pricey restaurant.
- Instant noodles—a classic backpacker’s staple that saves money in a pinch.

Pro Tip:

Look for in-store bakeries—fresh bread and pastries are often cheaper and make a great meal.

6. Take Advantage of Lunch Specials

Many restaurants offer cheaper lunch menus compared to their dinner prices. If you want a sit-down meal without the hefty bill, lunchtime is the best time to indulge.

Why It Works:

- Smaller portions = lower cost.
- Set meals include drinks or sides, saving extra cash.
- Less crowded than dinner service.

Pro Tip:

Look for "prix fixe" (fixed-price) menus in Europe—these offer a full meal at a lower price than à la carte options.

7. Cook Your Own Meals

If you're staying in a hostel, Airbnb, or anywhere with a kitchen, cooking your own meals can save you loads of money. It also gives you control over ingredients, which is great if you have dietary restrictions.

Easy Travel-Friendly Meals:

- Omelets—cheap, protein-packed, and quick to make.
- Pasta—affordable, filling, and requires minimal ingredients.
- Rice and beans—a global staple that's both nutritious and budget-friendly.

Pro Tip:

Shop at local markets instead of supermarkets—they often have fresher, cheaper ingredients.

8. Happy Hours and Discount Deals

If you enjoy dining out but don’t want to overspend, look for happy hours and discount specials. Many restaurants and pubs offer discounts on food and drinks during non-peak hours.

Where to Look:

- Bars and pubs: Many offer discounted appetizers and beer from 4-7 PM.
- Fast food joints: Some places have daily specials or buy-one-get-one-free deals.
- Apps like Groupon—find restaurant deals with massive discounts.

Pro Tip:

Follow restaurants on social media—many post discounts or special deals there!

9. Eat Where Students Eat

University areas are packed with cheap eats, simply because students are always on a budget. Whether it's a college town or a district near a university, you'll find affordable food options that won’t skimp on quality.

What to Look For:

- Cafeterias open to the public (some universities allow visitors to eat at their canteens).
- Cheap takeout spots with meal deals for students.
- Food trucks parked near campuses.

Pro Tip:

Check student discount apps—even if you’re not a student, you might spot great deals available to everyone.

10. Avoid Eating Near Major Attractions

Restaurants near top tourist sights often charge double (or even triple) the normal price, banking on hungry visitors who don’t know any better.

What to Do Instead:

- Walk a few blocks away—restaurants just a short stroll off the main path are often much cheaper.
- Check prices before sitting down—some places don’t display them and overcharge unsuspecting tourists.
- Ask locals for recommendations—they rarely eat at overpriced tourist spots.

Pro Tip:

If a restaurant has someone outside aggressively trying to pull in customers, it's probably a tourist trap. Keep walking!

Conclusion: Eat Smart, Spend Less

Eating well while traveling doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you're savoring street food, cooking your own meals, or taking advantage of lunch specials, there are plenty of ways to enjoy delicious food without overspending.

Remember, the best meals often come from the simplest places. So skip the overpriced tourist traps and dive into local flavors—you’ll save money and experience a destination in the most authentic way possible.