Money Saving Food Tips
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Updated on: September 25, 2023
Groceries
Plan meals for a week and make a grocery list accordingly.
Try to shop only once per week and stick to your list. This will help you avoid unnecessary purchases.
Don’t shop hungry. You may end up spending more than you intended.
Use coupons ONLY for things you need or use and ONLY for brand names you need or use. Otherwise, they will not help you save money.
Try purchasing off-brands as much as possible but check prices as off brands are occasionally more expensive.
Try to avoid pre-made “convenience” foods as they are typically more expensive, but "convenience" foods from the grocery store is cheaper than dining out. This includes pre-made salads, cut up fruit and shredded cheese which not only costs more but does not stay fresh as long.
Buy cases of water, juice or soda as this is typically cheaper than buying single items. (Or don't buy these things—drink water from the faucet. Get a water bottle to carry around with you and refill it. Flavored water packets can be an idea that is less expensive than soda but gives water a little flavor if that is needed).
Shop with a calculator so you can make sure you are staying within your budget. This can also help you verify that bulk purchases are cheaper.
Consider using a cash system. Whatever your grocery budget is for the week, put that amount of cash in a separate envelope, and don’t spend more than that amount.
Shop the sale ads, especially for meat and fresh produce. Local stores have ads online so you can find which store has the cheapest price for chicken that week, for instance.
Dining Out
Use any appropriate discounts (student, senior citizen or veteran) and look for “kids eat free” deals.
Eat at buffets when cost is reasonable.
Reserve eating out for special occasions.
Snack a little before you arrive to keep you from over-extending your order.
Restaurant portions are often large and can be shared with two.
When dining out, set a budget amount just like for groceries, and stay within that amount.