Save Money While Studying Abroad: Tips for Eating on a Budget

Treat Yourself to a Nice Restaurant Once

While it’s true that some of the best food can be found at high-end restaurants, indulging in a gourmet meal doesn’t have to wreck your budget. Splurging on one nice dinner can elevate your spirits, especially after a long day of exploring. For example, ordering a big, authentic pizza in Italy can be a rewarding experience! Knowing it’s a special treat, you’ll savor the meal even more.

Don’t Overlook Street Food

Street food is not only affordable but often packed with local flavor. While trying foods from unknown vendors might feel intimidating, it’s a great way to eat on a budget. In many cities, you’ll find food stalls on almost every corner. Kebabs, for instance, are a reliable and delicious option available in many countries.

A word of caution: In many cities around the world, some vendors sell street food from bicycles or small carts. To ensure your safety while enjoying these local delicacies, it’s advisable to choose stalls or kiosks that adhere to proper health regulations, particularly those with permanent setups. Look for vendors who maintain cleanliness and have a steady flow of customers, as this can often indicate fresher food and better hygiene practices.

Shop at Local Grocery Stores

One of the easiest ways to save money is buying ingredients from grocery stores. For about $5 in many cities, you can purchase items like a baguette, deli meats, and cheese—enough to make multiple meals. While it might not be glamorous to have a simple sandwich in the middle of Prague, it’s certain to be better for your budget than spending $20 on goulash for every meal.

Utilize Your Dorm, Apartment, or Homestay’s Kitchen

Likely, wherever you’re staying will offer some kind of kitchen, allowing you to cook your meals. This is an excellent opportunity to save money by purchasing ingredients in bulk and preparing meals on-site. Cooking your meals is not only cost-effective, but often healthier. Meal time can also serve as a social hub where you can invite friends over for communal meals, fostering connections and creating lasting memories!

While eating a few memorable meals is fun, day-to-day eating can be inexpensive if you know where to look.

Plastic Bags

Before you embark on your adventure, invest in a box of resealable plastic bags (Ziploc bags work great). They’re big, take up minimal space, and can be a lifesaver regarding meal planning. These bags can help you portion out snacks or ingredients for cooking, making it easier to manage your food budget while exploring new culinary experiences. Use them to store leftovers from restaurant meals, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, cost-effective lunch the next day.

Bring a Reusable Water Bottle

Another tip to save money and reduce waste is to bring a reusable water bottle. Instead of constantly buying drinks at cafes or restaurants, purchase a large gallon of water from a local supermarket to keep in your room. You can refill your bottle throughout the day, avoiding the need to spend extra money on beverages, and reducing your plastic waste. It’s a small step, but one that can lead to significant savings over time.

These strategies allow you to enjoy the culinary experiences of your host country while keeping your budget intact. With some planning and resourcefulness, you can enjoy good food, stay healthy, and still have money left for those once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences!