If you’re like most people, then food makes up a huge portion of your budget. However, there are easy ways to shrink this portion, so if you’ve ever wanted to be more frugal then check out these tips for saving money on food.
Eating Out
You should already know this but eating out is not cheap. Sure, there are some affordable restaurants out there, but if you’re considering tips for saving money on food then it’s time to start cooking.
You can usually cook a similar or equivalent meal at home for cheaper than what you would pay for at a restaurant.
And depending on the order, a single meal at a restaurant can often mean multiple meals at home if you spend that money on groceries instead.
This is especially true if you’re ordering delivery. Tips and delivery fees add up quick and can take a huge chunk out of your budget.
If you ever feel the temptation to order delivery creeping in, just ask yourself what would the price of your order get you in groceries.
Smart Shopping
Similar to the previous note from these tips for saving money on food, you need to be smart about what you buy at a grocery store.
Money can go a long way for groceries but only on certain items. Junk food and snack food usually cost a lot compared to how much nutrition they provide.
In contrast, produce can be very cheap while being highly nutritious. Instead of buying something like ice cream buy sweet fruits like oranges, mangos and peaches to name a few.
Most vegetables are also cheap, great for you and very filling. Consider potatoes, tomatoes and greens as staples for your diet. They can be prepared in an endless number of ways; it’s just a matter of finding a dish that you like.
For carbs, aim for rice and pasta as cheap options and aim for chicken or beef if you want affordable protein.
Buying Bulk
Another major point from these tips for saving money on food, buy bulk whenever you can.
Whether you’re getting produce, carbs or meats, if you buy the bulk package it will usually be cheaper than buying the same product in individual portions.
It will also save you trips to the grocery store which is a money/time saver in and of itself.
Regardless of where you live your grocery store should have a bulk foods section. Frequent this part of the store more often and keep an eye out for deals or opportunities to save.
