Footsteps on the Globe

We all want to save money when we go abroad and I find that food and drink is often the biggest culprit for draining our travel budget. So! I’ve combined my top 10 tips for saving money on food and drink that I swear by when travelling.

1) Pack snacks for on the move

Definitely pack a snack before you, this will save you at least £20 by the time you’ve wandered through duty free, had something to eat, got some snacks for the plane and loaded up on bottled water. If you’re going on a long haul flight, you’ll usually get fed within an hour of being on board so bring snacks from home incase you get peckish. Think along the lines of fruit, nuts and crisps or even a sandwich for something more substantial. This can also apply whilst you’re exploring your new destination.

2) Book self catered accommodation

This year I’ve booked a weekend away to Barcelona with friends and as there are four of us going, we decided to book an apartment and split the cost. This way it has worked out a lot cheaper than booking separate hotel rooms but also we split costs on food shopping and will save about £20 every meal we eat at home.

3) Eat where the locals eat

Try and avoid eating in tourist spots, prices will always be surged. If you’re out and about, ask a local where is cheap to eat or ask staff at your hotel.

4) Try to avoid alcohol

As I typed this I was cringing! How can you go on holiday and not enjoy some cheeky cocktails whilst you’re there?? Well unfortunately the cost for one *sad face*. In Amsterdam it was €13 (approx. £10) for a single vodka and pint of Guinness, which was steep compared to home. But then no one forced me to stay out all night after the first round so there was no surprise I went over budget in this case! Have fun, just be aware of getting carried away with the drink if you’re on a tight budget especially on nights out.

5) Eat on the go

It’s tempting to eat in restaurants whilst you’re out and about on holiday but particularly if you’re on a city break try getting lunch or dinner on the go in between activities. You can save money by grabbing food from street vendors or a sandwich from the local supermarket.

6) Order sides instead of mains

I always find that restaurants give you really big portions anyway so sometimes I get a couple of sides instead of a main. That way I get a meal that I know I’m not going to waste because I’m too full and I save some money.

7) Share with a friend

If you don’t fancy any of the sides, why not share with a friend? You split the cost as well as save yourself on the added calories, bonus! Make sure you assess the portion sizes first, just incase the restaurant is stingy on them!

8) Don’t be tempted by the extras

Starters, desserts, sides and alcohol. Keep it simple. If you’re eating out for every meal try to stick to mains. The little extras really do add up.

9) Refill your water bottle

You’re not allowed to take a full water bottle through security at the airport but you can take an empty one and refill it at the other side so you’re not forced to pay surged airport prices just for water. When you’re out and about at your destination you can also refill your water bottle as you go along. If you’re unsure about the tap water in your location you can buy a bottle with a built in filter from amazon.

10) Take advantage of special offers

2 for 1, buy one get one free, 10% off, lunch and dinner specials, whatever it may be, it’s all good! Keep your eyes open for meal deals as you’re on your travels to save you some extra pennies.

I hope these tips help save you some money on food and drink whilst abroad. If you have any other tips please share in the comment box below :)