Airport Food on a Budget — How to Eat Well Without Overpaying

Eating Well at the Airport Without Breaking the Bank

Airport food has a reputation for being overpriced, but with the right strategy you can eat well without paying premium prices.

Budget Strategies

Bring Your Own

Solid food passes through security without restrictions:

• Sandwiches, wraps, and salads
• Fruit, nuts, and snack bars
• Home-made meals in sealed containers

Remember: Liquids (including yoghurt, hummus, and soup) must comply with the 100ml rule. See our security rules guide.

Fill Your Water Bottle

Bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it at water fountains after security. This saves £3-5 per bottle at most airports.

Eat Landside

Restaurants before security are often cheaper than airside options. Eat a proper meal before going through, then just grab snacks airside.

Best Value at Major Airports

London Heathrow

• Budget: Pret A Manger, Leon (£5-8 for a meal)
• Mid-range: Wagamama, Giraffe (£10-15)
• Treat: Gordon Ramsay's Plane Food in T5 (£15-25)

Dublin

• Budget: Insomnia Coffee, O'Brien's (€5-8)
• Mid-range: Butler's Chocolate Café (€8-12)

Amsterdam Schiphol

• Budget: FEBO (automated Dutch snacks, €2-4)
• Mid-range: Grand Café Het Paleis (€10-15)

Money-Saving Tips

1. Airport apps: Many airports list all restaurants with prices
2. Loyalty cards: Chains like Pret and Costa honour loyalty programs at airport branches
3. Meal deals: Look for combo deals at sandwich shops
4. Avoid premium sit-down restaurants unless you have time and budget
5. Use lounge access for food: If you have a long wait, a day pass (£20-40) includes unlimited food and drinks — often cheaper than buying meals separately