How Much Money Should I Save for Food on Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

When planning for a vacation, one of the most important factors to consider is the budget. And one of the biggest expenses on any trip is food. It’s essential to make sure you have enough money set aside for food so that you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about running out of cash.

So, how much money should you save for food on vacation? The answer depends on several factors such as your destination, your travel style, and your eating habits.

Destination: The cost of food varies greatly from one place to another. If you’re traveling to a city or country where the cost of living is high, expect to spend more on food. For example, if you’re going to Paris or New York City, you’ll need to budget more for meals than if you were going to a smaller town or city.

Travel Style: Your travel style can also impact how much you’ll spend on food. If you’re staying in a luxury hotel and eating at high-end restaurants every day, then you’ll need to save more money for food than if you’re staying in a budget hotel and eating at casual cafes and street vendors.

Eating Habits: Your personal eating habits also play a role in determining how much money you should save for food. Are you someone who likes to indulge in fine dining experiences or are you content with simple meals?

Do you have any dietary restrictions that might increase the cost of your meals? These are all important factors to consider when budgeting for food on vacation.

How Much Should You Budget?

Now that we’ve looked at some of the factors that impact how much money you should save for food on vacation, let’s talk about specific numbers.

A good rule of thumb is to budget around $50 per day per person for food while traveling domestically and up to $100 per day per person while traveling internationally. This amount should cover three meals a day, snacks, and drinks.

However, if you’re traveling to an expensive destination or you have expensive eating habits, you may need to budget more. If you’re on a tight budget, try to save money by eating at local cafes, food trucks, and street vendors instead of high-end restaurants.

Tips for Saving Money on Food While Traveling

Here are some tips to help you save money on food while traveling:

  • Research local eateries before your trip to find affordable options.
  • Shop at local markets and grocery stores for snacks and easy meals.
  • Avoid eating in touristy areas as prices tend to be higher.
  • Consider booking accommodations with a kitchenette so that you can cook some meals yourself.
  • Take advantage of free breakfast options at hotels or hostels.

In Conclusion

When it comes to budgeting for food on vacation, it’s important to consider your destination, travel style, and eating habits. A good rule of thumb is to budget around $50-$100 per day per person for food. However, with some research and planning, you can save money on food while still enjoying delicious meals during your travels.