How Much Money Should I Save for Food on Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

When planning for a vacation, one of the most important things to consider is how much money you should allocate for food. It’s a common question that many travelers ask themselves, and the answer isn’t always clear-cut. There are a few factors that you should take into account when determining your food budget, including your travel destination, the length of your trip, and your personal eating habits.

Travel Destination

Where you’re traveling to can have a significant impact on how much you’ll need to budget for food. If you’re traveling to an expensive city or country, like Paris or Japan, then you should plan to spend more on food than if you were going somewhere with lower living costs. For example, a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Paris can easily cost around €20-€30 per person, while a similar meal in Thailand might only cost around THB 100-200 (€3-€6).

Length of Trip

The length of your trip will also play a role in how much money you’ll need to save for food. If you’re only going away for a weekend or a few days, then you might be able to get by with just packing some snacks and eating out at one or two nice restaurants. However, if you’re planning on being away for several weeks or longer, then you’ll need to plan more carefully and budget accordingly.

Your Personal Eating Habits

Your personal eating habits will also impact how much money you’ll need to save for food on vacation. If you’re someone who enjoys fine dining and trying new foods at every opportunity, then you’ll need to allocate more money towards your food budget. On the other hand, if you’re content with simple meals like sandwiches and salads or prefer cooking meals yourself instead of dining out every day, then your food budget may be lower.

Tips for Saving Money on Food While Traveling

No matter what your food budget is, there are some tips you can follow to help save money while traveling. Here are a few:

  • Look for street vendors or food markets, which often offer delicious and affordable options.
  • Shop at local grocery stores instead of eating out for every meal.
  • Avoid touristy areas, where prices tend to be inflated.
  • Consider staying at accommodations that include breakfast or have kitchen facilities, so you can prepare some of your own meals.

In Conclusion

Determining how much money you should save for food on vacation can be tricky, but taking into account factors like your travel destination, the length of your trip, and your personal eating habits can help. Remember to plan ahead and look for ways to save money while still enjoying delicious meals during your travels!