At our Home and Family Blog we like to pass along money saving energy tips such as giving you a heads up on new furnace regulations that could really affect your energy expenditure in the future and save you money in the winter months.
Saving money is a family affair.
We thought we’d also dig up a few tips that, while they may not have much to do with energy conservation, will definitely help you save a few dollars here and there. And here and there can add up over time so try a few and see what you think.
Today we’ll talk food, one of our favorite subjects:
Cook at home. After a long day at work we can be tempted to hit the drive through or carry out joint on the way home. But what you spend on just a single Chinese dinner can feed your family for a two to three days more. It’s also usually healthier as well. You can find weekly menu planning websites that can get you in and out of the kitchen in record time. So get the family involved and each pick a favorite meal.
For example, if you make a ton of spaghetti take some to work the next day. Plan a few meals at home that provide leftovers for lunch for the next several days. Or create some lunches with a variety of foods that kick PBJ to the curb. You won’t have the pressure of getting out, grabbing lunch and running back so grab a book or a lunch buddy and take your time.
Make a list before you head to the grocery store. Maybe download a recipe-planning app that has a grocery list with it. Plan a menu ahead of time and go through the pantry to make sure you don’t double buy. Always have staples in the pantry for on the fly menu planning. And never go grocery shopping when you’re hungry. This is how you end up with those banana flip thingies and two bags of Fritos.
Buy in bulk when you can. Pasta, rice, beans, canned goods, sugar, even storage bags and paper towels can be purchased in large quantities. With a little creativity they can be store in a way that makes them easy to reach and use.
Watch for expiration dates. Sometimes when perishables go on sale it’s because they are near their acceptable use date. It’s not a scam, it’s just a grocery store’s way of offloading food that’s nearing its end. But you may find it won’t last without some preparation. Most can be frozen for later use but be sure and use heavy bags or containers and label them with date and just what’s in there.
Hopefully these tips will help you save some of your paycheck, expand your food horizons and make you the envy of the lunchroom. Keep a tally of what you’re spending vs what you’d spend eating out every night and you may be surprised.
Do you have any money saving tips? Leave them in the comments and maybe we’ll all learn something!
