The Internet is full of ways to save money on your food budget. If you are trying to be more budget friendly, food is one of the larger categories where savings might be possible.
I should say I know there are families out there who are really struggling, and no further food savings are possible. I get it! However, for those of us fortunate enough to have more than the minimum we probably have an obligation to be as efficient as possible.
In no particular order, here are some ideas I came up with. I’m pretty sure some combination of these would net that $50 a month savings.
Stop Buying Fancy Coffee Creamer
I love coffee and I really love flavored creamers in that coffee. But they aren’t cheap. So, if I really wanted to save a little I could substitute plain milk or Half and Half and save several dollars a week.
Less Fast Food
Fast food is so easy. But it is not cheap. I can never stick to the dollar menu and once you venture off that menu it really adds up fast. Probably one less fast-food meal a week would get you that $50 a month.
Less Bought Lunches / Breakfast
Stopping for breakfast sandwiches on the way to work is just another fast-food issue. Buying lunch at work can get expensive really fast. Bring something from home and you’ll save money and probably eat healthier. If you are going to buy lunch once in a while at least go with some friends and coworkers. It is good for relationships and team building.
Reduce Jenny Craig or Nutrisystem
I’m not knocking Jenny Craig or Nutrisystem. If it is working for you by all means keep it up. But if you are no longer following the plan those costs can really add up.
Cheaper Coffee and Less Keurig Cups
Again, I really like my coffee. But there are probably some less expensive brands I could try. And those Keurig cups are really convenient but costly (and not great for the environment.)
At Least One Crockpot Double / Triple Meal a Week
Crock Pots are great! Dig yours out or buy one, they are cheap. There are lots of recipes available for great stuff. Throw the ingredients together in the AM and you are ready to go by dinner. Save money and time by making enough for two or three dinners at once.
One or Two Meatless Days a Week
You generally will save money and most health experts say it is good for you.
Simply Eat Less and Save Money and Weight
OK, this one is very basic but true. Many of us could stand to eat a little less. This would save money and be healthier.
Less Frozen Food
Frozen vegetables are cheap and good for you. But most other frozen items are really expensive compared to making them from scratch.
Less Beef or Steak – More Chicken
Beef roasts and steaks taste great. But they are expensive. Maybe keep them to once a week at most and substitute more chicken and turkey. It is healthier and saves some dollars. I should mention that it seldom pays to eat unhealthily to save money. For example, most experts say certain fish are really good for you. Good fish is not cheap but probably well worth the cost.
There are many more possibilities for savings. Check online or come up with ideas that make sense for you. You’ll probably never miss the changes, and the savings will add up!
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