10 Foods To Avoid While Traveling And 10 to Try Instead

Food is more than fuel—it’s a gateway to culture. Yet, 88% of travelers admit they’ve regretted a meal abroad. Why? Tourist traps, poorly cooked food, or dishes that don’t reflect authentic flavors. Worse, 1 in 3 tourists end up sick from risky food choices like long-sitting street food or seafood far from the coast.

The right food choices transform your trip into something unforgettable. The wrong ones can ruin it. This guide will help you avoid the 10 most common food traps tourists fall into (and the costly mistakes they make). We’ll also uncover the 10 local dishes worth every penny and calorie—guaranteed to make your trip a culinary success.

Want to know which “authentic” meals are overpriced imitations? Curious about the street food that’s safe to eat? Ready to savor dishes locals swear by and skip ones that aren’t worth it? Stop eating like a tourist. Start savoring like a local.

Avoid: Overly Processed Packaged Snacks

Packaged snacks marketed to tourists often prioritize convenience over quality, leaving flavor and nutrition behind. Surveys showed 65% of travelers regretted buying such items, citing bland taste and high prices. 

These mass-produced products often lack the freshness and authenticity of local offerings. Instead, visit local bakeries or markets for freshly made treats like Japanese rice crackers or French macarons, which provide a more genuine and delicious experience.

Avoid: Overpriced Tourist Pasta

Tourist restaurants often lure you with charming views but serve overpriced, mediocre pasta. 35% of food reviews mentioned poor-quality meals in tourist hotspots. These places prioritize convenience over authenticity, serving uninspired plates with bland reheated sauces. 

For a real Italian experience, venture to small trattorias tucked away from main attractions. Handwritten menus and seasonal specialties ensure fresh, handmade dishes that capture the true spirit of Italian cuisine.

Avoid: Buffet Sushi

Buffet sushi is a dangerous gamble, often prioritizing quantity over quality. Raw fish left at room temperature for extended periods can cause foodborne illnesses, which make up 20% of raw seafood-related sicknesses, per the FDA. 

Sushi-grade fish requires precise storage at 40°F or below. Instead, visit traditional sushi bars offering made-to-order dishes where chefs carefully prepare fresh sashimi or nigiri, ensuring every bite is both safe and flavorful.

Avoid: Generic Fast Food Chains

Global fast-food chains near tourist zones may feel familiar, but they often fail to represent the culture you’re exploring. A study showed 67% of travelers regretted choosing chains over local options. 

These restaurants sacrifice quality for speed and consistency. Instead, embrace regional fast food, like teriyaki burgers in Japan or piri-piri chicken in South Africa. These unique twists provide affordable, memorable meals that reflect local culinary traditions.