Travelling with your own cutlery and crockery may conjure images of colonial decadence - trunks laden with bone china dinner services and porcelain tea sets - but it is actually a frugal, liberating measure. Not only can it help you save money but it can also give you more freedom and choice in the types of food you consume away from home.
Light My Fire Titanium Spork
As its name suggests, the spork is a hybrid piece of cutlery: it has the scoop of a spoon at one end and the tines of a fork at the other, as well as a knife edge. The spork has been around for more than a century, but this example is the apotheosis of the design. The utensil has a very pleasing shape and it is made of titanium, meaning it is very lightweight and strong. Available from www.amazon.com from US$19.95 (Dh73) plus shipping.
Sea to Summit X Bowl
This bowl collapses flat so it takes up very little room. Nevertheless it is very versatile. The nylon base is hard enough to be used for chopping and to withstand cuts, while the silicone sides are rigid enough to be used confidently as a receptacle for hot liquids. The plastic is free from BPA and is safe to use in a microwave. Available from www.amazon.com from $14.95 (Dh55) plus shipping.
Orikaso Solo Set
This bowl, plate and cup fold as flat as a tablecloth thanks to a combination of the ancient techniques of origami and the modern material of polypropylene. In fact, the company's name - Orikaso - means to fold plastic. This dining set is extremely light and very easy to carry around, yet impermeable and heat resistant. Available from www.amazon.com from $15.95 (Dh59) plus shipping.
