Here is a guest post on youngandthrifty.ca by Jennifer Williams. Jennifer Williams is a writer, turner traveler, turned blogger. She’s trying her hand at blogging on various topics, so you can find her stepping into tech, business and finance. Follow her on twitter- @JtotheWilliams or check out her blog- allovertech.wordpress.com.
We live in a culture where nobody seems to have the time to cook anything. Or maybe it’s the dishes nobody has time for. Whether it’s a race through the drive-through or a dinner that uses the last of your energy (that takeout bag is pretty heavy), eating out is a way of life, recession or not. But you still have other expenses. Here are five ways you can eat out, and still have some money to fill your fridge later on.
1. Eat your biggest meal early.
It’s a well known fact that you need to eat early in the day to jump start your metabolism. Common sense also dictates that if you eat a larger meal in the morning, you won’t be ravenous (and spending even more) for lunch or dinner… or even wandering the grocery store like a zombie looking for bloog. And if you want a fourth reason, remember that taking in your calories earlier means that you’ll be burning them off all day long.
2. Bring snacks.
While this may sound like advice only a parent needs to follow, remember that there’s
no rule saying you have to eat entirely at restaurants.
The grocery store is often the least expensive option available to you. Look for free days
at bulk discount stores (such as the one Sam’s Club had on August 6-8, 2010), and pick
up a box of small chip bags, or a large container of popcorn. A little self knowledge and
some foresight can pay big dividends when it comes to meals on the go. Just be sure
to get things you actually like, instead of falling into the trap of “I should eat this, even
though it tastes like packing peanuts.”
You can also go to sites likeOffers.com and download some coupons- this way, you
can get more of what you want without spending a ridiculous amount of money.
