Hey there fellow travelers! 👋 It’s always exciting to explore new places and try new food, but dining out while traveling can be expensive, especially if you’re doing it solo. But don’t worry, 🙅‍♀️ you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy delicious meals while on the road. Here are some tips on how to dine out on a budget while traveling solo:

1. Do Your Research

Before you even leave your hotel or hostel, do some research on where you want to eat. 💻 Look up reviews and ratings online, ask locals for recommendations, and compare menus and prices from different restaurants. This way, you can plan ahead and have a budget-friendly dining experience without any surprises.

A laptop with a search engine page open

2. Avoid Touristy Areas

Touristy areas usually mean higher prices, so try to avoid them if possible. 🚫 You’re better off exploring the less touristy parts of town where you can find authentic local cuisine at affordable prices. Plus, you’ll get a chance to see how the locals live and interact with them.

A street scene of a non-touristy area

3. Look for Special Deals

Restaurants often offer special deals during certain days or hours of the day, so keep an eye out for them. 🕰️ Some examples include happy hour specials, early bird deals, and lunch specials. Take advantage of these deals and you can try some of the fancier restaurants without burning a hole in your wallet.

A chalkboard outside a restaurant advertising happy hour specials

4. Eat Street Food

Street food is not only delicious, but it’s usually cheap too. 🌭 You can find street vendors selling all kinds of food from hot dogs, falafel, tacos, and everything in between. Just make sure to choose a vendor that looks clean, and keep an eye on your belongings.

A street vendor selling street food out of a food truck

5. Share Your Meals

Portion sizes can be huge, especially in the US, so if you’re traveling solo, consider sharing your meals with other travelers. 🍽️ This way, you can save money and reduce food waste. Plus, you might even make some new friends along the way.

A photo of two people sharing a large plate of food

6. Drink Water

Drinks, especially alcoholic beverages, can quickly add up to your bill. 💰 Opt for water instead, which is usually free, and healthier too. If you really want to indulge in a drink, consider happy hour specials or look for local options that are cheaper than imported ones.

A glass of water with a lemon slice on a restaurant table

In Conclusion

Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to miss out on delicious food experiences. By doing your research, exploring local areas, and taking advantage of special deals, you can dine out on a budget and still have a fantastic culinary adventure. 💁‍♀️ Bon appétit!

A plate with a variety of local dishes from different regions of the world