Picture this: You’re jetting off to a yoga retreat in Bali, escaping the city bustle for a week of sun salutations and smoothie bowls. You’ve budgeted meticulously for your trip, from the flights and accommodation to the daily massages (hey, a yogi deserves some pampering!). But wait, what about those in-flight meals? Are they a sneaky travel expense, or just another meal slipping into your daily budget?
This is a question many travelers ponder as they meticulously plan their adventures, and the answer isn’t always so simple. Let’s unpack the in-flight meal dilemma, shall we?
Breaking Down the In-Flight Meal Expense
While it’s tempting to lump those mini pretzels and mystery meat dishes into the “travel” category, the reality is a bit more nuanced. Here’s a breakdown of how to consider in-flight meals in your budget:
1. Consider the Flight Length and Meal Inclusions
A short domestic hop with complimentary drinks and a bag of peanuts? That’s practically a snack break, and you can easily categorize it as a travel expense.
However, a long-haul international flight with multiple hot meals, snacks, and drinks is a different story. In this case, it’s more realistic to consider these meals as part of your daily food budget for the days you’re traveling.
2. Pre-Booking Meals vs. Onboard Purchases
Many airlines offer the option to pre-book meals, often with healthier or more diverse options than the standard fare. If you choose to pre-book, it makes sense to factor these costs into your overall travel budget.
On the other hand, if you decide to purchase meals or snacks onboard, it’s a good idea to treat them as you would any other dining-out expense.
3. Dietary Restrictions and Preferences
For travelers with dietary restrictions or preferences, in-flight meals can be a bit trickier. You might find yourself packing your own snacks or meals, in which case, those costs would definitely fall under your travel budget.
