Welcome to another week of Kitchen Budget Hacks by Budget Bites Brigade. Today, I’m actually travelling to see the eclipse, so my family is trying to be budget friendly while travelling, which is totally different than when we are home. But we don’t stay home all the time, so it’s definitely worth discussing! So that’s the theme of this weeks’ hacks, being budget friendly about your food while travelling!

This weeks hacks include:

1. Pack Smart: DIY Travel Snacks for On-the-Go Fuel

2. Dine Like A Local: Embracing Street Food and Market Finds

3. Master the Art of Meal Prep: Cooking on the Road

Hack #1: Pack Smart: DIY Travel Snacks for On-the-Go Fuel

When it comes to budget-friendly travel, one of the simplest yet most effective strategies is to pack your own travel snacks. Instead of splurging on pricey airport or convenience store snacks, take the time to prepare your own before you hit the road. Think homemade trail mix with nuts, dried fruits, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips, or DIY granola bars packed with oats, honey, and your favorite nuts and seeds. Not only are these snacks more affordable, but they're also healthier and can easily be portioned out into reusable containers for on-the-go convenience.

Furthermore, consider adding some homemade baked goods to your travel snack arsenal. Items like muffins, energy balls, or protein bars can be made in advance and are perfect for satisfying hunger pangs during long flights or road trips. Plus, baking your own treats allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring they're both nutritious and delicious.

While I truly believe that a road-trip (which is what we’re doing) should come with snacks that looks like a ten year old was left unsupervised in the snack aisles, that isn’t exactly budget or waistline friendly. Some healthy snack alternatives can be veggie sticks, fruit, and hearty sandwiches. Whatever you decide to bring, if you shop at the grocery store instead of convenience locations, you’re likely to save a few bucks.

Hack # 2: Dine Like A Local: Embracing Street Food and Market Finds

One of the best ways to experience the local culture – and save some cash – while traveling is by indulging in street food and exploring local markets. Street food stalls offer an array of delicious and affordable options, from mouthwatering tacos in Mexico to savory kebabs in Turkey. Not only are these meals often more authentic than restaurant fare, but they also provide an opportunity to interact with locals and immerse yourself in the vibrant street food scene.

Similarly, local markets are treasure troves of fresh produce, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals at a fraction of the cost of restaurants. So, don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover the culinary delights that your destination has to offer. Whether it's a steaming bowl of pho in Vietnam or a piping hot empanada in Argentina, sampling street food and market finds is sure to be a highlight of your travel experience.

The markets will vary depending on where you’re travelling, but avoiding the flashy tourist attractions will save you money. You can shop at local grocery stores and prepare foods in your hotel as well! Depending on what you have at home and how you’re travelling, you could bring with a slow cooker, pressure cooker, or portable grill and enjoy home cooked food while away from home, which brings us to our next hack!

Hack # 3: Master the Art of Meal Prep: Cooking on the Road

For those traveling on a tight budget, cooking your own meals can be a game-changer. Many accommodations, such as hostels, Airbnb rentals, or campgrounds, offer kitchen facilities that you can take advantage of to whip up simple yet satisfying meals. Consider packing a portable stove or camping stove for outdoor adventures, and stock up on pantry staples like pasta, rice, canned beans, and spices. With just a few ingredients and some creativity, you can prepare delicious meals like spaghetti aglio e olio, veggie stir-fries, or build-your-own sandwiches wherever your travels take you.

Moreover, meal prepping while on the road can help you save both time and money. Spend a few hours on your arrival day preparing meals for the week ahead, portioning them out into containers, and storing them in your accommodations' fridge or freezer. Not only will this save you the hassle of cooking every day, but it will also prevent you from succumbing to the temptation of expensive restaurant meals.

As previously mentioned, sometimes you’re able to bring modern appliances with. For our trip, I am bringing my Ninja Multicooker. This will enable me to use it in a variety of ways, from slow cooking, to using it as a skillet. We have so many more options available just by bringing something from home. This is easier to do as we are roadtripping, but if we were flying, it might take more planning or we may have to look into other options.

Safe Travels!

As you embark on your next adventure, remember that eating well on a budget is not only possible but also adds to the richness of your travel experience. Saving money on food, also allows more room for excursions! Whether you're packing your own snacks, indulging in street food, or cooking up a storm in your accommodations, these budget-friendly food hacks will help you stretch your travel budget further while savoring the flavors of your destination. So, bon appétit and safe travels!