Save money and soothe sore legs – A practical essential used by seasoned backpackers turns out to be...

▲ The unassuming plastic food storage box is actually a great helper for independent travel.

Reported by Chen Ruizhong / Taipei

Many people make lists of all kinds of must-have items before traveling abroad, but experienced backpackers with rich travel backgrounds say that the “plastic food storage box,” found in almost every household, is actually an incredibly useful travel item.

Experts note that food at many tourist attractions can be both expensive and unappetizing, and in some places, there aren’t even any food vendors around. Therefore, how backpackers replenish their energy is a major consideration.

Food storage boxes are lightweight and sealable. If you're staying at a B&B while traveling independently, you can pack a few slices of bread or sandwiches in the box before heading out for the day. If your accommodation has a basic kitchen, you can also prepare microwave meals, store them in the box, and take them with you. This not only keeps food fresh but also reduces waste. Over time, it can help you save quite a bit of extra money.

▲ Food storage boxes come in various sizes, so you can choose according to your needs.

Aside from keeping food fresh, based on personal experience, experts also point out that many people who travel abroad often walk all day and may inevitably experience knee soreness.When necessary, plastic food storage boxes can also serve as ice trays. By making ice cubes in advance, you can use them for cold compresses when you return to your lodging at night, helping to soothe soreness and face the next day’s journey with greater ease.

Additionally, compared to the fixed sizes of plastic lunchboxes, food storage boxes come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it easy for anyone to find one that suits them. If they’re part of a series, they can also be stacked to save space. When packed in a suitcase, the boxes can double as organizers. If you buy fragile small souvenirs abroad, you can place them in the boxes to reduce the risk of breakage. Truly versatile. Next time you embark on a backpacking adventure, consider bringing along a food storage box.