5 Ways To Keep Food Costs Down
Food costs have increased 40% on average since the pandemic. Find out how to keep food costs down - even while traveling
You've finally made it to your destination after a long day of travel, whether by plane, car, or train. As a human, you need to refuel with some food. If you've visited the grocery store, Costco, or even Walmart's grocery section lately, you know that prices can be quite steep. From eggs to fresh fruits, vegetables, and frozen meals, everyone is feeling the pinch. Did you know that the cost of a dozen eggs has surged by 76% over the last five years? Have you dined out or ordered takeout? Those prices have risen too. While there's hope that prices might eventually drop, for now, we need to adapt, which means finding ways to navigate these high costs. I've previously discussed food options for solo travelers, but let's focus on how to enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Eating is essential, but getting creative is key. Here are some tips for solo travelers to keep their food expenses in check while on the road.
Cook On Your Own
My manager at my full time job once told me that whenever he travels for work, he finds the nearest Whole Foods and gets groceries for his room that he can cook on his own. Now, this will only work effectively if you have a suite hotel or an apartment. You will also need to make sure you have the proper cooking utensils and seasonings in the residence or suite hotel you are staying. Does your accommodation have a outdoor grill and is it functioning? If so, steaks, chicken and fish are far cheaper at the grocery store or even a local butcher shop than eating out, and as you're cooking the food, you control how it's prepared and how it's seasoned. There's plenty of great YouTube channels to watch to help you cook as well, even if you're a perpetual novice like me. If you have a hostel or sharing a house with others, it may not be an ideal scenario but still worth considering.
The Hot Bar Is Calling
While we're talking about the grocery store, many local supermarket chains like Yoke's Fresh Market and Wegman's, and organic markets like Whole Foods and Sprouts have a large area of prepared foods that will usually last a few days in the refrigerator or are ready to eat. Some larger supermarkets, and especially the organic supermarkets have fresh sushi, pizza, and rotisserie chicken. Whole Foods is well known for its options at its Hot Bar, which includes but is not limited to collard greens, roasted vegetables, paleo beef, chicken vindaloo, chicken wings and smoked pork shoulder. Make sure to read the packaging to ensure it is microwavable or if it needs to be cooked. You won't have as much control over how the food is prepared, but it opens you up to different foods and you can pick and choose what's best for you. Like any buffet or salad bar though, keep in mind that costs can get out of control quickly when you add more food to the plate. If there are combo options, those might be a better option financially.
Arrange Meal Kit Delivery at your Accommodation
Do you use meal kit delivery services like Hello Fresh, Home Chef, Factor, or others? If you do, you can arrange for your deliveries to be sent to your hotel or accommodation, as long as the delivery time aligns with your stay. Typically, these services send a sealed box addressed to you, often packed with dry ice to keep everything fresh. Just ensure that your accommodation has a secure spot for the delivery, and remember to update your delivery address for future orders. I've tried HelloFresh and Home Chef before, and they provide pre-portioned ingredients, making it easy to follow the recipes and cook. Home Chef meals are usually ready to eat with just an oven needed. While I don’t use those services anymore, I do enjoy Factor, which is excellent. They offer meals tailored to your dietary preferences, including options like vegan, dairy-free, keto, and more. You can keep these meals in your fridge for up to a week, making it a great way to stick to your dietary goals while enjoying the convenience of a subscription. If you don't currently subscribe to any of these services, I have linked the three I mentioned for you to try the services at a nice discount!
Food Trucks, Food Courts and Food Halls
Food trucks serve a wide array of cuisines from around the globe, typically at prices that are more affordable than most restaurants, while still delivering high-quality meals. They provide a fantastic opportunity for solo travelers to sample diverse dishes. Although they can sometimes be tricky to spot, they are often found near breweries and events. You can easily find food trucks and food truck parks online through platforms like Eater and Facebook, or you can use the app Where's The Foodtruck to discover nearby options.
Remember those food courts at the mall? They’re still going strong! Nowadays, food courts have transformed from just greasy fast food to a vibrant mix of healthy and tasty options that you can enjoy on-site or take elsewhere. Additionally, many cities have developed food halls, which take the food court idea and enhance it with cultural experiences like arcades, shops, and offices, with some even featuring self-serve taprooms and cocktail bars. The food often comes from local eateries and can include everything from burgers and fries to sushi and pizza, with plenty of healthy choices available as well.
Stick to the Small Plates
If you're planning to dine out at a restaurant and want to save some money, here are a couple of strategies to consider:
- Happy Hour: Typically available from Monday to Friday during the quieter late afternoon hours, usually between 2pm and 6pm. Some establishments even offer happy hour specials after 9pm. The specifics can vary widely, with some places providing only minor discounts on drinks and snacks, while others have fantastic deals. By selecting a few items from the menu, you can enjoy a fulfilling meal at a reasonable price. Just remember that most happy hour promotions require you to enjoy your food and drinks on-site.
- Appetizers and Small Plates: This is a great option if you're looking to relax and have a meal after a day of hiking or sightseeing. These dishes often complement the main menu but come in smaller portions. If you're considering side dishes, it might be more economical to spend a little extra for a full entrée instead.
Food For Thought
Solo traveling on a budget doesn't always mean living off of fast food and Powerbars for the week, though I wouldn't judge you if you did! It can involve preparing your meals in the kitchenette of your hotel room or utilizing a grill, or even arranging for a meal kit delivery to your accommodation during your travels. Additionally, taking advantage of happy hour specials or opting for appetizer portions can be a smart way to dine out. Food trucks, food halls, and food courts also present fantastic opportunities for solo travelers to enjoy delicious meals while on the go. Traveling doesn't have to drain your finances; while some strategies may require more effort than others, these alternatives can help you manage rising food costs, making it easier to save money during your journey, which is crucial for a successful solo travel experience.
