Cooking on TDY is one of the smartest ways to stay within per diem while keeping meals healthy and affordable. Many government travelers make the mistake of relying on restaurants and takeout for every meal, which drains M&IE quickly. With the right setup and a little planning, cooking on TDY can transform your assignment into a more comfortable and sustainable experience.

Why cooking on TDY saves money

Per diem allowances for Meals and Incidental Expenses (M&IE) vary by location, but they rarely stretch far if you eat out three times a day. A sit-down dinner can easily consume half of the daily allowance. By cooking even two meals at home each day, travelers can save a significant portion of M&IE and redirect those funds toward other comforts.

Healthy eating on assignment

Restaurant meals are often higher in sodium, fat, and calories. Over weeks or months of TDY, this takes a toll on energy and health. Cooking at home allows you to choose ingredients, balance meals, and maintain routines. For families on TDY, home-cooked meals also reduce stress by giving children familiar food and mealtime structure.

Essential kitchen tools for TDY cooking

Most furnished housing comes with basic cookware, but these items often fall short for daily use. Travelers who want to cook efficiently should look for or request the following:

  • Rice cooker or Instant Pot for easy grains and one-pot meals
  • Slow cooker for set-and-forget dinners after long workdays
  • Quality non-stick skillet and saucepan
  • Chef’s knife and cutting board for prep work
  • Microwave-safe storage containers for leftovers
  • Small grill or electric griddle for variety

How TDY Rentals makes cooking easier

One advantage of using TDY Rentals is the ability to request supplemental furnishings as part of your per diem package. Travelers have furnished their temporary homes with rice cookers, espresso machines, grills, and upgraded cookware. This flexibility means you don’t have to settle for whatever limited tools come with a corporate apartment or hotel kitchenette.

Meal strategies for TDY travelers

  • Batch cooking: Prepare meals for several days at once to minimize cooking time.
  • Simple breakfasts: Oatmeal, eggs, and fruit are cheap, quick, and healthier than fast food.
  • Portable lunches: Sandwiches, wraps, or grain bowls pack easily for duty days.
  • Dinner variety: Use a slow cooker for stews, Instant Pot for rice and proteins, or a grill for lean meats and vegetables.
  • Healthy snacks: Stock nuts, yogurt, and fresh fruit to avoid vending machines.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Relying only on the minimal cookware provided by hotels or apartments
  • Eating out daily and running short on M&IE
  • Failing to plan for grocery shopping near the lodging location
  • Ignoring dietary needs until health issues arise during long TDY assignments

Key takeaways for cooking on TDY

Cooking on TDY isn’t just about saving money — it’s about creating a healthier, more comfortable routine during long assignments. With the right kitchen tools and housing setup, you can prepare meals that fit your lifestyle while staying fully compliant with per diem rules. Supplemental furnishings from providers like TDY Rentals make it easy to build a kitchen that feels like home.

Learn more about TDY Rentals