FTM: Save Money By Meal Planning!
As we start the new year, we want to help our readers learn how to save money. There are so many different ways of saving money. One of these ways is by planning meals. Meal planning will not only save money, but can save valuable time as well. Here are a few simple steps to help you get started. Happy Planning!
Here is how meal planning can help you save money:
1. Start by using what you already have.
Always start to plan meals by including the foods you already have in the house. This is a great way to see what you have. As an added bonus you can rotate your groceries during this process. This is another great way to reduce waste as well.
2. Plan your meals.
You already know what you have and now you should plan around that. You can start to make a list of items that you need to complete your meal plan. You should check your grocery ads for any sales and possible coupons for the items that are on the list. We post a ton of great deals from a variety of different stores!
3. Tips for planning your meals
When you know what you have, you are now ready to start planning your meals. Here are a few tips that can make things easier:
Use quick meals for those nights where your schedule is busy, and plan to have leftovers from larger meals. If you cook a big Sunday meal, you should consider making enough for 2 days so you can have leftovers.
4. Make your shopping list.
You should ALWAYS shop with a list. This is a good way to save money. You can keep a running list, and update it on an as-needed basis. As items are consumed, add them to your list. Walk around your kitchen/storage area before a trip to assess what is needed. This saves time in your pre-trip planning as well.
Utilizing a shopping list can help you to stop buying random items. When you have a list stick to it!
5. Stick to your meal plan.
If you stick to your meal plan, you will save money and time.
We here at FTM always post our most popular store ads and you can view them while you are making your shopping list. You can also print any coupons that you may need for your meal plans here!
Since my meal plan is done for the week, I am starting on next week!
Do you have any other ways to save money with meal planning?