Food! We all need it to live, but why does it cost so much?! Getting something that every living organism needs to live can really break the bank. In college, I learned to survive on quite the budget. I mean making something out of nothing type of budget. Whenever money is a little tight, I go back to those days to make getting my basic needs a lot easier. These are my favorite 5 ways to save money on food.
Coupons! Probably the most obvious tip out there. You might not want to look like the silver-haired elderly woman on senor Wednesday at Kroger, but hear me out. Grandma Pearl might be on to something. Nowadays there are apps for any and everything. Instead of getting the Sunday paper and clipping coupons, you can download an app. I uploaded my Kroger card to the app. Before I go shopping, I search for coupons and load them to the card. When the card is scanned the discount is there and I’m on my way to better savings. Shop around your app store and see which of your favorite places have coupons. There are apps just for coupons. Start Googling!!! You might find some deals.
One-Pot Meals! One day I was hungry and needed some ideas for dinner without breaking my budget. So, I took it to Pinterest. I came across $20 for one-pot meals. I thought to myself if I buy a store band and double the ingredients, I could make a pot of food that’ll last the week. From there I would pack my lunch or eat before I went out to keep myself from buying food. By the end of the week, you’re ready for something new and affordable. So, it’s back to Pinterest! Doesn’t it feel good when it’s cheap and delicious?
Pinterest! I’m sure you knew this was coming. I love Pinterest because it has taught me so much. From makeup for interviews, new hairstyles, how to dress for certain events, to save a little coin and so much more. If you aren’t into the one-pot meals, you can learn to cut the cost on some of your favorite dishes using this free app. Just type in what you are looking for and start scrolling. There are plenty of ways to have an expensive taste on a “trying to make it” type of budget.
Store Brand! This one has been a bit touchy for some more prideful people but its really not that bad. Now, everything the store brand isn’t good. Some things just taste like there were too many corners cut. We want to save money without hurting our stomach. A lot of the time I shop at Kroger or Walmart. Both of which have pretty decent store brand products. I have not had a problem with the can or frozen foods. However, the toaster pasties were a waste of money for me. Store brands might not be glam in your cart, but they are in your bank account.
Noodles! Instant noodles have saved my life. Ramen is one of the easiest ways to save money on food. They are a few cents a pack and come in quite a few flavors. But these pocket-friendly tummy savers can be really boring. They aren’t the most exciting thing to see in your bowl after a long hard day. However, sprucing them up a little can add a little personality to your meal. It gives you something more visually appealing and appetizing. I have added a little tofu or chicken, veggies, and an egg to ramen before and enjoyed myself. Adding protein, sauces, and/or veggies is a great way to spruce up your cheap dinner. Doing this helps you get more satisfied and not dread the usually boring meal so much.
Using these 5 ways to save money on food has helped me live to write this. I have been using these tips for quite some time to create savings and to make sure I am not spending a lot on food if I don’t have to. Using these tips can turn your cheap lunches into five-star meals. Not really. Not close. But I like to look on the positive side. What tips do you use? Have you tried these? What’s your thought process?
