What are some of the best and worst airport food options for leisure travelers?

1 Plan ahead

One of the best ways to avoid the pitfalls of airport food is to plan ahead and bring your own snacks and meals. This way, you can control what you eat, how much you spend, and how satisfied you feel. You can pack your favorite granola bars, nuts, dried fruits, crackers, cheese, sandwiches, salads, or wraps in your carry-on bag, as long as they comply with the security regulations. You can also bring an empty water bottle and fill it up at a fountain or a refill station after passing the checkpoint. This will keep you hydrated and save you money on bottled water.

3 Treat yourself

While you should be mindful of what you eat at the airport, you don't have to deprive yourself of a treat now and then. After all, you are on vacation and you deserve to enjoy yourself. You can indulge in a dessert, a drink, or a snack that you love, as long as you balance it with healthier choices and moderate portions. You can also use this opportunity to try something new or different that you may not find elsewhere, such as a regional specialty, a seasonal delicacy, or a unique flavor. Just make sure you savor every bite and sip, and don't overdo it.

4 Compare prices

Airport food can be notoriously expensive, especially if you are traveling on a budget or with a family. To avoid paying more than you should, compare prices and check the menus before you order. You can also look for deals, discounts, or coupons that may be available online, on your boarding pass, or at the information desk. You can also save money by sharing your food with your travel companions, ordering smaller portions, or skipping the extras, such as sauces, toppings, or sides. You can also avoid the convenience stores and vending machines that charge a premium for snacks and drinks.

5 Read reviews

Another way to find the best and worst airport food options is to read reviews from other travelers who have been there before. You can use online platforms, such as Yelp, TripAdvisor, or Foursquare, to see what people have to say about the quality, taste, service, and price of the food outlets at the airport. You can also check the ratings, photos, and recommendations that may help you make your decision. You can also ask your friends, family, or social media followers for their opinions or suggestions if they have traveled to the same airport.

6 Be flexible

Finally, be flexible and adaptable when it comes to airport food. You may not always find what you want or expect, or you may face delays, cancellations, or changes in your travel plans. In that case, you may have to improvise and make the best of what is available. You may also have to deal with different dietary restrictions, preferences, or allergies that may limit your options. In that case, you may have to ask for modifications, substitutions, or special requests. You may also have to cope with different time zones, cultures, or languages that may affect your appetite or understanding. In that case, you may have to adjust your eating habits or communicate clearly.