How to Get Free Food and Drinks While Traveling (Without Dumpster Diving)

Want to eat for free while traveling? No need to beg or dumpster dive — here’s how to do it right.

1. Use Hotel Perks (Even If You're Not Staying There)

Free options:
- Continental breakfasts (pastries, cereal, fruit, yogurt)
- Lobby coffee stations
- Afternoon cookies or happy hour drinks

Walk in confidently, smile, and help yourself (discreetly).

2. Airport Lounge Access = Free Buffet

Lounges include:
- Hot meals
- Snacks
- Coffee, soda, alcohol

Use:
- Priority Pass
- LoungeBuddy app
- Day pass ($25–$50, worth it for a long layover)

3. Use Food Rescue and Sharing Apps

Try:
- Too Good To Go (discounted restaurant leftovers)
- Olio (free community food)
- Couchsurfing events (group dinners)
- Meetup potlucks and events

Great way to eat + meet locals.

4. Join Hotel Loyalty Programs

Even basic members get:
- Free bottled water
- Welcome drink or snack
- Food credits on stays

Programs to join:
- Hilton Honors
- Marriott Bonvoy
- Wyndham Rewards

5. Ask for Extra Airline Snacks

On long flights:
- Ask nicely after meal service
- Request special meals (vegetarian, kosher) to be served early
- Crew often has extra snacks they’re happy to hand out

6. Attend Hostel Events

Even non-guests can often join:
- Free communal dinners
- Cooking nights
- Pub crawls with free pizza or drinks

Check HostelWorld or walk in and ask.

7. Check Mobile Wallet Offers

Apps like:
- PayPal
- Apple Wallet
- Airline apps

May offer:
- Free drink credits at airports
- “Spend $5, get $10 Starbucks” promos

8. Volunteer at Events

Get fed for helping:
- Street festivals
- Cooking classes
- Hostel activities

Ask local event organizers for volunteer roles with perks.

9. Sample at Grocery Stores and Markets

Best bets:
- Costco
- Trader Joe’s
- Local farmers markets
- Weekend markets

Try a full sample loop — no shame in it.

10. Final Tip

Traveling doesn’t mean starving or overspending. Use hotel, airport, and social hacks to eat free and smart.