Traveling is exciting, but food expenses can quickly add up, especially if you’re staying at hotels with limited dining options. Fortunately, with some clever strategies, you can minimize food costs without sacrificing quality.
Here are the top travel hacks to help you save money on food while staying at hotels, whether you’re on a budget-friendly getaway or a business trip.
Choose Hotels That Offer Free Breakfast
One of the easiest ways to cut food costs is by booking a hotel that includes breakfast with your stay.
For example, Hilton hotels, which offer the benefit of free breakfast.
Benefits of Free Breakfast:
- Saving money: No need to buy breakfast elsewhere.
- Convenience: Saves time by letting you dine on-site.
- Variety: Choose from a variety of options, from fruit and cereals to hot dishes such as eggs and bacon.
Below is a list of major popular hotel chains offering free breakfast:
Hilton Hotels:
- Hampton by Hilton: Provides a free hot breakfast to all guests, featuring items like waffles, eggs, and fresh fruit.
- Homewood Suites by Hilton offers a complimentary hot breakfast daily, including options such as scrambled eggs, bacon, and pastries.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton: Serves a free cooked-to-order breakfast, allowing guests to customize their meals.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton: Features a complimentary breakfast with a variety of choices, including artisan-style breakfast sandwiches and bowls.
- Tru by Hilton: provides a free “Top It” breakfast bar with numerous toppings for bagels, donuts, and more.
Marriott International:
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott provides a free breakfast with both hot and cold selections.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott: Serves a complimentary breakfast featuring items like scrambled eggs and sausage.
- Marriott offers a free breakfast with a variety of choices.
- Element by Marriott: provides a healthy complimentary breakfast to start the day.
Hyatt Hotels:
- Hyatt Place offers a free breakfast for World of Hyatt members who book directly, featuring hot items like eggs and breakfast sandwiches.
- Hyatt House provides a complimentary breakfast with made-to-order omelets and other hot selections.
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG):
- Holiday Inn Express: Serves a free Express Star Breakfast Bar with hot and cold options.
- Staybridge Suites offers a complimentary hot breakfast buffet daily.
Wyndham Hotels:
- La Quinta Inn & Suites: Provides a free Bright Side Breakfast with both hot and cold items.
- Days Inn: Offers a complimentary breakfast with various selections.
- Super 8: Serves a free SuperStart Breakfast, including items like waffles and cereal.
Choice Hotels:
- Comfort Inn & Suites: Provides a complimentary hot breakfast with options like eggs, waffles, and fresh fruit.
- Quality Inn: Offers a free hot breakfast featuring items such as eggs and meat.
- Sleep Inn: Serves a complimentary Morning Medley breakfast buffet.
Best Western Hotels:
- Best Western: Many locations offer a free hot breakfast, though offerings can vary by property.
Please note that complimentary breakfast may not be available at some of these brands. Menus and portions also vary from hotel to hotel. Before booking, please check with the hotel’s information line for the latest information.
Bring Non-Perishable Snacks
Packing a few snacks can be a lifesaver, particularly if you want to avoid overpriced vending machines or room service fees. Bringing your own snacks allows you to skip buying small meals or snacks when hunger strikes between activities.
Suggested Snacks:
- Granola Bars & Trail Mix: Perfect for quick energy.
- Instant Oatmeal Packs: Use the hotel’s coffee maker or kettle to add hot water.
- Nuts & Dried Fruit: Healthy, long-lasting, and easy to carry around.
By having these snacks on hand, you’re less likely to spend extra on small, impulse purchases that add up over time.
Look for Hotels with Kitchenettes
If you’re staying for more than a few days, consider booking a room with a kitchenette. Having access to a microwave, mini fridge and even a small stove can expand your cooking options, allowing you to prepare basic meals instead of going out to restaurants. If you eat out, bring leftovers home to enjoy another meal.
A kitchenette can be a game-changer for those who want to avoid the constant cost of food and maintain some control over their diet and food choices.
Locate Local Grocery Stores
Many hotels are close to convenience stores or supermarkets where you can stock up on essentials such as bottled water, fresh fruit and basic cooking ingredients.
Shopping tips:
- Make a list: Plan to buy simple, ready-to-eat foods that don’t require a lot of preparation.
- Buy only the essentials: Don’t buy too much, especially if you have limited storage space.
- Buy fresh food: It’s healthier and usually cheaper than pre-packaged hotel snacks.
Take Advantage of Loyalty Programs and Promotions
Hotel loyalty programs often offer discounts on meals, free drinks, or snacks. Sign up for these programs before you travel or when you book. Some hotels offer a welcome bonus upon check-in with snacks or a discount in the restaurant.
These programs vary from hotel chain to hotel chain, so it’s worth checking their benefits in advance.
Explore Local Restaurants and Street Food Options
Eating out doesn’t have to be expensive. Look for nearby restaurants, stalls, or cafes with good reviews and affordable prices. Often, local eateries offer more authentic food for less than hotel restaurants.
Tips on how to find cheap local food:
- Use review apps like Yelp or TripAdvisor to help you find cheap and highly rated places nearby.
- Ask the locals.
- Many cities have vibrant street food scenes that offer delicious meals at a low price.
Utilize Food Delivery Apps with Promo Codes
If you’d prefer to dine in the comfort of your hotel room, take advantage of food delivery apps. These apps often provide first-time user discounts, promo codes, or bulk deals that can significantly reduce meal costs.
Consider All-Inclusive Packages Carefully
For longer stays or in remote areas, consider all-inclusive hotels.
Final Thoughts
Saving money on food while staying in a hotel doesn’t mean compromising on the quality and enjoyment of your meal. With these practical tips, you can save your budget while travelling.
Safe travels and delicious meals!
